Snowed Under
The Leafy Hollow Mysteries, Book #5
Rickie Blair
5 Stars
Synopsis:
When a crossword craze turns lethal, can a green PI solve the clues before the killer makes it two down?
With Leafy Hollow in a deep winter freeze, landscaper Verity Hawkes is all out of funds. Setting up a private investigator business seems like the best way to indulge her fantasy and make a few bucks. But she never expected her first case would turn the whole town against her.
As she investigates a shady, million-dollar crossword competition, even her detective boyfriend sides with her neighbors in thinking it’s legit. But when the contest seems to connect with scruffy dog walkers and a dead village hoarder, Verity’s determined to puzzle out the clues before the whole town descends into a word-smithing frenzy.
With time running out, can Verity find the killer before the culprit delivers another deadly answer? (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well developed and well rounded. Verity is a smart hardworking woman who loves to solve puzzles. So it makes sense that she would try to open a private investigation office, she will make some money and indulge her puzzle solving appetite. She will have plenty of help from her friends and neighbors. I especially liked her relationship with her best friend, Emy. It was funny, caring and you can tell that they are really close.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and she had me shivering from the cold as I was reading. She really gave the reader an insight into a cold Canadian winter and the impending snow storm. I think it takes talent to create that type of atmosphere with just the written word. There are mysteries galore in this book and they are well plotted. I thought the crossword puzzle contest was very clever and fun.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With great characters, great descriptions and great intrigue, what is not to like?
mjbreviewers 
OK, Another new series I have to try. Love doing puzzles, mostly math & logic puzzles, so I need to read this. I love Parnell Hall’s Puzzle Lady series.Very funny.
Glad you found another book to read. My job is done!!!!! 🙂
The cover is attractive.
Yep.
Great review–and I love the cover! This is a new-to-me author whom I’ll have to check out.
Glad that you found a new author to enjoy. Thanks for stopping by.
Crossword puzzle solving, a clever idea for a cozy mystery. Good review!!
Thanks, I enjoyed the book and I agree that it’s a clever idea.