Friday 3 June 2016

Knock On Wood by Linda O. Johnston (Cozy Mystery, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 November 2015, Midnight Ink, 336 pages, Ebook, Review copy from NetGalley

Summary from Midnight Ink
Rory Chasen, now the manager of the Lucky Dog Boutique in Destiny, California, is delighted when her best friend Gemma arrives a day early for her visit. Gemma’s just broken up with her boyfriend in Los Angeles, so Rory is especially eager to cheer her up. But before they get a chance to talk, two of the town’s most eligible bachelors sidle in. Their amorous advances—and an unexpected job offer—seem to take Gemma’s mind off her ex . . . until he arrives in Destiny.

As Gemma tries to sort out what to do, one of her suitors is murdered, leaving Rory to wonder if a black cat has crossed Gemma’s path. Is Rory’s friend guilty of murder—or is she just having a run of bad luck?

Nayu's thoughts 
Even with paranormal slash supernatural elements this cozy mystery is a win! They weren't overbearing, which was a relief for me as I am easily spooked. I love this story because it involves animals, which provide both problems and entertainment. Rory has the coolest job! She and Gemma have a lot on their plates, which gets even heavier as the story progresses. 'Things' happen, which leave the friends with more questions and worries with answers sprinkled sparingly until the end. I was certain that Gemma wasn't the killer, even though the evidence said otherwise, because she's a good person.

I loved how the community had unique characters who all reacted differently to Gemma being a murder suspect. It's true that you really find out who your friends are when you're in a difficult position. Thankfully Gemma has Rory looking out for her, which is very much needed with a murderer trying to frame her. There were lots of tense moments, as well as several where I laughed and smiled at the humour in the tricky circumstances. This is my first stop in Destiny and it won't be my last! 

Find out more on Linda's website.

1 comment:

Linda O. Johnston said...

So glad you enjoyed it. Thank you!