Book Review: Death by Pumpkin Spice

Product DetailsKrissy Hancock, owner of the Death by Coffee bookstore and café, has an unusual knack for getting involved in murder investigations. In this third installment of the Bookstore Café series, Krissy is invited to a swank Halloween party in what can best be described as a Halloween nightmare of a mansion. When one of three Marilyn Monroes is found dead after she humiliated her boyfriend in front of the entire party, Krissy cannot resist getting involved.

This novel is definitely a cozy mystery. Most of the action takes place at one party in a small town where everyone seems to know everyone. Readers wont guess the murderer easily. Add in a love triangle with two handsome men and a stalking ex-boyfriend, and readers have all the ingredients necessary for a fun, light read that is perfect for the coming fall season.

(Reviewed in exchange for a copy of book via Netgalley.)

Book Review: The Lafayette Sword

Product Details In The Lafayette Sword, a killer infiltrates a Freemason temple to kill two and steal a ceremonial sword, and police detective and Freemason Antoine Marcas feels especially compelled to find the killer as one of the victims is not only his Freemason brother but also his close friend. Thus begins an intense chase involving two continents and a 700-year-old puzzle to stop the killer before he learns the alchemical secret which could destabilize the world.

Eric Giacometti and Jacques Ravenne are masters at crafting suspenseful action. Through exceedingly short chapters that end at just the right moment and rapidly alternate between three to four settings across centuries and continents, they keep readers on the edge of their seats. Furthermore, readers will find it difficult to predict how the various aspects of the plot will come together. Those who enjoyed The Da Vinci Code should give The Lafayette Sword serious consideration, and those who have read the latter may find themselves exploring the grounds of the Eiffel Tower with renewed interest the next time they are in Paris.

(Reviewed in exchange for a copy of book via Netgalley.)