Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Gerri Lewis' The Last Word is a charming and intriguing cozy mystery that stands out in its genre. The premise alone is enough to spark curiosity: an obituary writer, Winter Snow, becomes entangled in a murder investigation after a client, who requests her own obituary, dies unexpectedly. It’s an unusual job for an amateur sleuth, and the mix of quirky characters, small-town charm, and dark twists make it an enjoyable read.
Plot: ★★★★☆
The plot is a breath of fresh air in the cozy mystery genre. Winter Snow, with her unique profession, brings a distinct perspective to the investigation, offering a refreshing change from the typical detective or amateur sleuth. The murder mystery itself is well-paced, and the twists keep things interesting, though it does take a little while to fully ramp up. The unveiling of the killer felt satisfying, though not overly complex—this is a cozy mystery, after all, so readers can expect a solid but not mind-bending mystery.
Characters: ★★★★☆
Winter is a likable and relatable protagonist. Her job as an obituary writer adds depth to her character, as she’s someone who deals with the stories of others’ lives, yet is still figuring out her own. The supporting characters, particularly the ones in the small town of Ridgefield, Connecticut, add to the charm of the book. While some characters could use a bit more depth, they all serve to create a colorful backdrop to the mystery. The budding romance adds a nice touch but doesn’t overwhelm the story—it's a nice, slow-burn element that doesn’t distract from the main plot.
Writing Style: ★★★★☆
Lewis’ writing is engaging and accessible. She does an excellent job of weaving descriptions of Ridgefield and its quirky residents into the narrative, making the setting feel like an essential part of the story. The dialogue is sharp, and the pacing is steady, with just the right amount of tension to keep you turning the pages. The writing doesn’t try to be too flashy, which works well for this type of cozy mystery.
Romance: ★★★☆☆
The romance in The Last Word is understated, but it fits well within the context of the story. Winter’s relationship with the potential love interest is slow and natural, which is a pleasant change from forced or rushed romantic subplots. While it's not the focus of the book, the hints of romance offer a nice side element that adds depth to Winter's character.
Suspense/Thrill: ★★★☆☆
While The Last Word is certainly a cozy mystery, it doesn't have the high-octane thrills that some mystery fans may crave. Instead, it offers a more laid-back kind of suspense. The mystery unfolds at a comfortable pace, with Winter slowly uncovering clues. It’s not edge-of-your-seat material, but it’s certainly satisfying for fans who prefer a more relaxing mystery-solving experience.
Overall: ★★★★☆
The Last Word is a delightful mystery with a unique premise that sets it apart from other cozy mysteries. The small-town atmosphere, quirky characters, and Winter’s perspective as an obituary writer make for a fun, engaging read. The romance, while secondary, is sweet, and the mystery itself is satisfying without being overly complicated. It’s a perfect read for fans of cozy mysteries who are looking for a book with charm and intrigue. If you enjoy character-driven stories with a touch of mystery, The Last Word will be right up your alley.
Overall Rating: 4/5
A solid and engaging read, The Last Word is a charming cozy mystery that offers a fresh take on the genre. While it may not have the intense suspense of other mysteries, its likable characters and intriguing premise will keep readers coming back for more.
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