Color Me Murder by Krista Davis is the first book in the NEW “Pen & Ink” mystery series. Publisher: Kensington, coming February 27, 2018
By day, Florrie Fox manages Color Me Read bookstore in Georgetown, Washington D.C. By night, she creates her own intricately detailed coloring books for adults, filling the pages with objects that catch her eye. There’s plenty of inspiration in her new apartment–a beautiful carriage house belonging to Professor John Maxwell, Florrie’s boss. He offers the property to Florrie rent-free with one condition–she must move in immediately to prevent his covetous sister and nephew from trying to claim it.
When the professor’s nephew, Delbert, arrives, he proves just as sketchy as Florrie feared. But the following morning, Delbert has vanished. It’s not until she visits the third floor of the store that Florrie makes a tragic discovery–there’s a trap door in the landing, and a dead Delbert inside. The esteemed Professor Maxwell is an obvious suspect, but Florrie is certain this case isn’t so black and white. Doodling clues, she begins to consider other colorful characters on the scene, all with a motive for murder. With a killer drawing closer, Florrie will need to think outside the lines . . . before death makes his mark again.
I love a book that immediately grabs my attention and this new debut series does that. This was a well-written and fast paced whodunit that was delightfully entertaining. The author did a good job in presenting a murder mystery that had me immersed in all that was happening. There were plenty of suspects and it was the many clues that colored the landscape that kept me glued to the pages. The dialogue and the interactions among the cast kept me engaged in all aspects from finding the body to gathering clues and to the revelation of the killer’s identity. I liked how the author supplied us with bits and pieces and strategically placed twists and turns that enhanced my reading pleasure. Krista has a way with the narrative that caters to what I like best in a cozy mystery – a solid murder, a bit of romance, a great setting, a lovable cast of characters and a fun book to relish. I can’t wait to read the next book in this enticingly enjoyable series. Bonus is you can color both the front and back cover of the book.
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FTC Full Disclosure – I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) from the publisher.
While I don’t understand the adult coloring craze, I do see what an interesting book Ms Davis has written including that topic. I love her writing, and can’t wait to read this one as well.