Dog problems, an invading nudist colony, and lobster poachers: the summer is not turning out well in Tinker's Cove--especially not after murder steps in.
Lucy Stone's summer is not starting out very well at all. Her dog keeps escaping from the yard to chase the neighbor, Mrs. Pratt's prize-winning chickens; a bevy of naturalists (nudists) have set up camp near the town's favorite swimming hole; and the Fourth of July fireworks display has been cancelled due to concerns about its ecological impact.
Lucy Stone, Reporter
The most serious happening is the increased suspicion of lobster poachers. Lobstering is one of primary industries in Tinker's Cove, Maine and poaching is not to be taken lightly. Lucy, a reporter for the town's weekly newspaper, "The Pennysaver," is ideally situated to hear all sides of the many issues that have the townspeople excited this summer. She also always seems to be at the scene when a murder is discovered. That's great for the paper, but not so good this time when she finds Mrs. Pratt dead at the side of the road, the apparent victim of a hit-and-run driver.
Suspicion runs immediately to Lucy because of her squabbles with Mrs. Pratt over the dog and the chickens. The Pratt family also seems to be involved in the poaching scheme. Could the two things be connected? And, will Lucy be able to find the real killer before she gets arrested...or worse, before the killer strikes again, possibly even closer to home?
Star Spangled Murder is a quick, enjoyable read, ideal for a picking up on a summer's afternoon or relaxing on the Fourth of July. This is one of the earlier Lucy Stone mysteries (published in 2004) and gives fans of the newer books a chance to learn a little more about Lucy and her friends, family, and neighbors. There's one, short (but disturbing) plot device concerning their pet dog. Readers who are sensitive to animals getting hurt might want to skip this one.
About Leslie Meier
Leslie Meier is the author of 13 previous Lucy Stone mysteries, most of which are holiday-related. Her most recent novels include 2007's St. Patrick's Day Murder; the 2006 release, Bake Sale Murder; and 2005's New Year's Eve Murder. Meier's work has also been published in "Ellery Queen's Mystery Magazine." She lives in Rhode Island with her husband, where she is at work on another Lucy Stone mystery.
Other Holiday Cozies to Enjoy:
- St. Patrick's Day Murder by Leslie Meier
- Cinco de Mayo Murder by Lee Harris
- Labor Day Murder by Lee Harris
- A Calendar Full of Holiday Cozies
