A Parfait Murder

June 1, 2011

Hot August nights and the Lantana County Fair bring back Tallulah (Tally) Jones and her wacky small-town Texan ensemble (Scoop To Kill). Cousin Bree is accused of murdering smug attorney Kristen Ver Steeg in one of the carnival rides. Tally and Finn, her reporter boyfriend, are hot on the trail to figure out who wanted Kristen dead--aside from Bree. Assorted family secrets make for some bumps in the ride and keep us guessing as we go. VERDICT Laugh-out-loud humor and snappy dialog create a perfect confection for a summer afternoon. Watson's cozy series pokes fun but never too hard, making this an easy recommendation for those who enjoy family and friends ensemble mysteries. Think Avery Aames and Lila Dare for writers with similar small-business owners solving crimes on the side. And don't forget to try the to-die-for ice cream recipes.

Copyright 2011 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.