Review of Murder Misunderstood

Murder Misunderstood

A Kay Driscoll Mystery, Book#5

Susan Bernhardt

5 Stars

Synopsis:  

A privileged and unlikeable newcomer arrives in Sudbury Falls. This not-so-welcome addition to the community furthermore has an unsettling hobby: cultivating a poisonous garden. When the newcomer is discovered dead, the neighbors are somewhat relieved, yet someone must be held responsible for the crime. The unfortunate accused, desperate to prove her innocence, asks Kay Driscoll to investigate the crime and discover the real culprit(s).

Kay faces obstacles as she seeks answers from those who knew the unpopular murder victim. Cooperation is difficult to obtain when many people are happy to see the victim gone. Nevertheless, Kay’s investigations take her on an adventure with unexpected twists and a diverse lineup of potential suspects.

A fortune teller from a traveling carnival with a strong and suspicious interest in the victim’s poison garden, adds to the mystery and intrigue of this riveting tale. (Goodreads)

Review:

The characters are well rounded and well developed.  Kay finds herself in the middle of another murder to solve, but with the help of her friends, Elizabeth and Deirdre, that will be a little easier.  They all add a little something to the investigation, a different perspective to consider.  And with Janey, a relative, on the case, the killer does not stand a chance. 

The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read.  The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the beginning and took me on an intriguing ride.  The descriptions also included lots of different foods and it made me hungry while reading it.  I wish there was a Sweet Marissa’s Patisserie to go to to get some sweet treats.

The mystery was well plotted and not easily solved.  There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through and when I thought I knew who did it, I was wrong and had to start over again.  I really did not figure out the culprit until the reveal at the end.  

I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery.  It felt like I was visiting with old friends and getting caught up on their lives and hearing all the gossip from the neighborhood as well as solving a mystery.