Dru’s Short Musing:
Namaste goes out the window when the body of her rival is found dead and spa owner Emma becomes the prime suspect. To clear her name, she begins her own investigation.

This was enjoyable read with a well-designed storyline or two and a comfortable tone that captured my immediate attention from the first page to the end, quickly becoming a page-turner. Emma is on the case as she scrutinizes the potential suspects looking for clues that will aid in revealing and the apprehension of the person responsible for the murder. The author does a great in staging this mystery with an eclectic and quirky cast of characters, engaging dialogue, a small-town atmosphere, and a few red herrings that kept me in the game. The narrative kept the story moving forward and the pacing was on par with how well this whodunit was being told. I enjoyed the tidbits about what the “spa-life” entails with the necessary accessories as well as including yummy recipes. The bonus was seeing a character from Ms. Gerber’s other series playing a role in this book. Overall, this book with its robust foundation was a wonderful read and is a new addition to the cozy genre.

Series Name: An Aroma Wellness Mystery ~ Book 1
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Release: March 25, 2025
Format: Print, Digital
Purchase Link

Book Synopsis:
Emma Brennan may have her head in a cloud of eucalyptus, but her feet are firmly planted on the ground in breathtaking Carmel, California, as she prepares to open her new spa business, Aroma Wellness. But all the reiki, shiatsu, and massage in the world can’t help her relax when she’s accused of murder . . .

Everything is going smoothly as Emma prepares for the grand opening of the spa. The therapy rooms are painted. The sales shop and café are stocked with meditative and delicious goodies, from essential oils to avocado masks and prickly pear massages. The fountain in the Courtyard of Peace is burbling with good vibrations. In fact, there isn’t a whiff of trouble until that morning when Emma is shocked to learn that a rival spa owner has been bludgeoned . . . with an item from the goodwill basket Emma gave her. Worse, a witness is pointing the finger at Emma . . .

With the police treating Emma like she’s the only suspect, and the town’s anti New Age anything posse badmouthing her every step of the way, she’s left with no choice but to conduct her own investigation. Incensed by the accusations but empowered by her cousin, her nana, and her trusted Birman cat, Vivi, Emma reviews the potpourri of possible suspects, determined to uncover the essence of foul play—before she’s cold-pressed for murder . . .

FTC Full Disclosure – I received a digital ARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley.