Sunday, April 13, 2008

Murder Can Crash Your Party by Selma Eichler


Murder Can Crash Your Party
A Desiree Shapiro Mystery, Book 15
Selma Eichler
Obsidian
May 6, 2008
ISBN# 978-0-451-22384-5

Desiree Shapiro is a Manhattan PI who’s recently been asked to Connecticut as a guest speaker at a mystery writer’s convention. As much as the idea terrifies her, Desiree accepts the invitation. Some time away from work and the strain of her relationship with her boyfriend, Nick, is just the thing she needs.

Having gotten through her speaking engagement the previous day, Desiree is enjoying breakfast and trying to decide if she’ll stay an extra night. Her thoughts are interrupted when she’s joined by Belle Simone, an author, and her assistant, Gary Donleavy. Surprised, but intrigued, Desiree listens while Belle offers her a job. If Desiree can correctly identify the murderer in Belle’s new book she’ll be given a check in the sum of $24,940. An odd amount, but it’s an offer that she can’t refuse.

Desiree begins her new case with the stipulation that she will be given clues along the way. The story of a man who’s the victim of foul play at a surprise party given by his wife is the basis of the story, and Desiree reads along as the death is investigated. With a little help from friends and family, she moves through the book and the clues given to her by Gary and Belle. Just as Desiree nears the end of the story, tragedy strikes. It becomes more important than ever to discover the truth, and she won’t stop until she’s solved the crime.

Written as a murder mystery within a murder mystery, Murder Can Crash Your Party will keep readers on their toes right from the beginning. Ms. Eichler deftly draws readers into the mystery and keeps them engaged in solving the crime. While this isn’t a fast paced read, it’s amazing how quickly you’ll find yourself at the end. This well-written tale is filled with delightful characters, a realistic romance and a touch of humor that keeps things on the lighter side.

Kimberly Swan, Darque Reviews

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

What a neat idea for a book! This might be a good book for one of those days when I don't know what I want to read.

Kimberly Swan said...

I read a lot of mysteries when I'm looking for something different to read, but rarely review them unless they have a paranormal element to them. One of the best things about this book is that the characters have very real flaws and issues. :)

Lis said...

This one sounds great! Will have to pick it up

Kimberly Swan said...

Hi Lis - It's different and the clues aren't just your average clues. :)