Murder Runs in the Family: A Lighthearted Whodunit with a Side of Tortoise
You know those moments when a book beckons to you from the shelf, practically whispering, "Pick me!"? That was my experience with Murder Runs in the Family by the delightful author, family drama and mystery maven Sheila Connolly. Intrigued by the quirky premise—a woman traveling to meet her estranged grandmother in a luxurious retirement center—I couldn’t resist diving in. I was not disappointed!
From the moment we meet Amber Winslow, who’s navigating the complexities of her life after leaving Seattle, I felt an immediate connection. The tension of meeting her grandmother, Jude—a woman she’s never known—sets the stage for a cozy mystery that quickly unfolds in an unexpected and entertaining manner. The plot thickens almost immediately when a resident dubbed "the Admiral" is found dead, and suspicion falls on Jude. The stakes are high, and as Amber decides to don her amateur sleuth hat, I couldn’t help but cheer her on.
What truly shines in this book is the delightful balance of humor and warmth. Connolly expertly weaves themes of found family and community into the narrative, creating a rich tapestry of character interactions. The eccentric residents of Seven Ponds come alive, each vividly illustrating the beauty and complexities of aging—and giving readers plenty of laughs along the way. Mina, the tough-talking resident who’s just a tad too involved in everyone’s business, brings a sparkle of comic relief, while Jude, Amber’s grandmother, is a firecracker of a character whose unapologetic eccentricity had me in stitches.
The pacing of the story is spot-on, effortlessly guiding us through the twists and turns. Despite an initially overwhelming amount of information, the unfolding drama feels natural and engaging, never rushed. The insight into Amber’s career struggles and family backstory adds layers to the narrative, allowing us to empathize with her journey immensely. And let’s not forget the tortoise—yes, a pet tortoise plays a significant role here! This unassuming creature not only becomes the heart of several amusing scenes but also serves as a reminder of how sometimes, the most unexpected characters can steal the show.
Connolly’s lighthearted writing style makes the book a fast-paced read, and her ability to blend comedy with a cozy mystery is commendable. There were laugh-out-loud moments that brought genuine joy; she brings a fresh perspective to the genre that feels both modern and relatable.
As I turned the final pages, I couldn’t help but hope for more adventures featuring Amber and Jude. This is decidedly a book that plays on the heartstrings, illuminating the importance of family—chosen or blood—and the bonds that form in the most unexpected places. To anyone who appreciates a cozy mystery that’s as much about character relationships as it is about whodunit revelations, Murder Runs in the Family is a must-read.
In conclusion, if you love tales that feature quirky characters, a lighthearted mystery, and perhaps a tortoise or two, then grab a copy of this gem! It’s a wonderful escape into a world where humor and warmth reign supreme, and I guarantee it will leave you eager for more. Thank you, NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press, for the opportunity to read this delightful mystery—I genuinely enjoyed every charming moment!
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