Postcards From Stella Maris by Susan M. Boyer
Series Name: Liz Talbot Mystery Short Story Collection
Genre: Cozy
Release: September 26, 2022
Postcards From Stella Maris is a collection of five short stories for fans of the series who might be interested, for example in Colleen’s backstory. I wrote the short story “Common Knowledge” for myself years ago, as a way to explore what happened to Colleen. As you might imagine, it’s not as light as the series in general. This story has never been published anywhere.
“Eviction” is the story of how Liz first met Rhett, her golden retriever, back when she was married to Scott the Scoundrel. This story is also not lighthearted, and it likewise has never been published before.
“Hogwash” originally appeared in Spinetingler Magazine. This is a fun little case which introduces the character of Zeke Lyerly, who appears in Lowcountry Bonfire.
“Highlights and Hot Lead” originally appeared in The Petigru Review. This is a Stella Maris slice of life story featuring Shannelle Johnson, a local judge’s wife, and takes place entirely at Phoebe’s Day Spa.
“Everything is Relative” is a peek inside a Talbot family Thanksgiving. A few of Mamma’s recipes are included at the end.
I so hope you enjoy these glimpses into Liz Talbot’s formative years, her unfortunate first marriage, and her life between major cases.
Dru’s Short Musing:
This is a fabulous short story collection featuring Liz Talbot showcasing scenes from her youth through her many stages of her adulthood.
We learn more about her friendship with Colleen as well as her encounters with some of the characters we’ve met in the “Liz Talbot” series. A variety of emotions from sadness to heartwarming are portrayed from the first story to the last. These stories illustrate the growth of our heroine which helped Liz be the person we first meet in Lowcountry Boil. This is a great collection and delightful read that is worth every penny to get a better understanding of our Liz Talbot.
Dru Ann, thank you so much for this lovely review!