Scrapbook of Secrets

February 1, 2012

If newcomer Annie Chamovitz feels like an outsider in Bible Belt small-town Virginia, where does that leave Maggie Rae? Cumberland Creek is stunned when the young mother is found shot dead in her home. The scrapbooking group suspects her husband, because they think he might have been abusive. But Maggie Rae had a secret life as a successful erotica author and a history of taking lovers. At this point, a veritable kitchen sink of suspects surfaces. Annie becomes the lead amateur detective because she is a freelance newspaper reporter; consequently, she gets to the heart of what made Maggie Rae tick. But the killer doesn't appreciate Annie's snooping. Let's hope Annie is prepared. VERDICT This debut crafty cozy pushes its own envelope with themes of erotica and open marriage. Although Bryan's story suffers from too many red herrings, she introduces some dandy characters that will spin off well as the series unfolds. Match with fellow craft authors Joanna Campbell Slan and Lois Winston. Scrapbooking tips included.

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