With Baited Breath by Lorraine Bartlett is the first book in the new “Lotus Bay” mystery series. Publisher: Polaris Press, January 2014
Tori Cannon and her grandfather, Herb, return from her grandmother’s funeral, and it’s with sadness that she learns the bait shop and small motel they ran has fallen on hard times. Jammed into one of the motel’s units is the body of one of Herb’s customers, his mouth filled with spikes. The victim had no enemies, except for the rich woman who wanted to level his eyesore of a home. But he’s also got a daughter who’s resentful her father wasn’t a major force in her life, and friends who were anything but.
Tori’s friend, Kathy, arrives to help spruce up the property, and the two of them find themselves mixed up in the petty jealousies and deadly consequences that murder entails. Can they save the bait shop and find a murderer or will they, too, sleep with the fishes?
I like the possibilities that exist with this new series. Kathy and Tori are best friend and they are both embarking on a future in their new hometown, but before that could happen, they will have to solve the murder of the dead man found in Tori’s grandfather lodges. With reconnecting with a long ago friend, missing journal pages, a decrepit house, a bait shop, unkempt lodges, a wealthy landowner and lights in the dark all played significant roles in this new series that was hard to put down. I like the pacing and how well this drama was executed to set me up for an ending that I didn’t see coming. This was a very enjoyable read and I can’t wait to see how the possibilities turn out for Tori and her friends.
This sounds good to me. Her other series are also good reads.
Thanks for the opportunity to win this book!
I agree. So many possibilities!
I love all of Lorraine’s books — and her short stories! Can’t wait to read this one.
Like her other series, so will have to give this one a try.
Can’t wait to read it
I enjoy everything she writes so looking forward to starting this new series. And the postcard I received of the book cover!
So glad you reviewed Lorraine’s terrific book–no need to enter me in the drawing, I’s already on my Kindle. Another great read from Lorraine!
Sounds great. Lorraine is amazing!
I’m reading this on my Kindle. Will finish it tonight, so now I’m anticipating the surprise ending. I like all of the characters. Well, almost all.
Based on this, I bought it and am enjoying it! Thank you!
-Maureen
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