One of the best ways to learn about a person is by asking questions, so let’s get to know Marketta Davis.

What is your full name?
Marketta Davis

How old are you?
26

What is your profession?
Artist and cosmetic entrepreneur. I’d hoped for artistic fame but resigned myself to relative obscurity after graduating from the Chicago Art Institute. Makeup was my savior though. Cosmetics always fascinated me so opening POPPET, a beauty emporium was a natural fit.

Do you have a significant other? / What is their name and profession?
My previous romantic track record has been abysmal, but my current squeeze Dr. Roderick Park, is a political science professor from the University of Michigan. He has both beauty and brains, leading me to hope that I have at long last found THE ONE. Oddly enough a wily Chicago lawyer, Killian Blaine, is also pursuing me. He plies me with sweets and flowers, but I’ve steadfastly fended off his advances. Mr. Blaine has a well-established reputation as a serial philanderer. I reject that type of attention.

Are your parents nearby?
My parents relocated to New Zealand of all places! My Aunt Violet Davis, an internationally renown listed artist serves in loco parentis. Her elegance and wisdom are a constant source of inspiration to me although I often fall short of her expectations.
Who is your best friend?
My BFF and business partner Gemma Watts serves as pal, sleuthing partner, and sounding board.

Do you have cats, dogs, or other pets?
I love all animals, especially my rough collie Fantasia. She is my boon companion and protector. Algernon, a persnickety Persian also lives with us. He was the beloved pet of a dear friend whose murder I helped to solve. (Algernon is a work in progress).

What town do you live in?
Harbor Bay, Michigan, an upscale resort town that abuts Little Traverse Bay in the Northern part of the state.

What type of dwelling do you own or rent?
I inherited an exquisite town house from my deceased friend Doogie Kinkade.

What is your favorite spot in your home?
I love curling up on the velvet chaise in my library with a cup of Earl Grey.

What is your favorite meal and dessert?
Anything French.

Do you have any hobbies?
Solving mysteries—Some call me nosey but inquisitive is more accurate. I’ve been termed Harbor Bay’s Miss Marple, although Nancy Drew is far closer to my age. Despite that, Gemma and I have aided the authorities in solving three murders.

What music do you listen to?
Most often, I choose old school tunes with romantic themes. (Etta James (AT LAST); Roberta Flack (FIRST TIME EVER I SAW YOUR FACE) are some of my favorites.

What is your favorite color?
Anything vivid. Red and yellow predominate.

What is your favorite vacation spot?
Paris—Aunt Violet lived there for decades.

What is your idea of a really fun time?
I love going to museums and art galleries. (I’m SO boring)

If you were to write a memoir, what would you call it?
MAKEUP IS MURDER

Amateur or professional sleuth and whom do you work with?
Strictly amateur although Gemma and I frequently outwit the so-called professionals. We have flouted the law and common sense on occasion and found ourselves in some ticklish situations.

What is a typical day in your life like?
Managing things at POPPET, and painting.

DAZZLING DEATH – A Cosmetics Crimes Mystery, Book 4
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Release: December 2025
Format: Print, Digital
Purchase

When faded film star Teagen Doyle swanned into town, Harbor Bay went wild. Her life on the off stage was the stuff of legend, particularly when paired with that of her billionaire husband Brendan Doyle. Before long, Teagen unveils plans for a business venture “Teagen’s Tinctures” and enlists the aid of Marketta Davis to paint her portrait. She also has an ulterior motive: some unknown person has threatened her life. Teagen wants Marky to find the culprit.

Like many celebrities, Teagen has a whim of iron. She sees Marky’s beau Dr. Roddy Park and wants him. In short order, she gets what she wants, leaving Marky bereft once more. During one of her infamous “seduction suppers” Teagen succumbs to anaphylactic shock. A tragic accident—or MURDER? When Roddy Park is accused in her death, Marky storms in to save him. Two subsequent murders haunt Harbor Bay thwarting the quest for justice. The arrival of dashing attorney Killian Blaine further complicates matters. He’s Brendan’s pal with a jaundiced eye and a yen for Marky. Will time run out for her before a clever killer is unmasked?

About the author
Arlene Kay is the best -selling author of 14 published novels of mystery and romantic suspense. Her works are known for clever plots, fast pace, and snarky dialogue. She enjoys teaching seminars on writing and is a sought-after speaker at conferences and panels. In her former life, Arlene was a senior executive in the Treasury Department where she was a most unconventional public servant. Fear not, she has renounced her bureaucratic ways in favor of crime (writing).