Another Review at MyShelf.Com

False Premises
Domestic Bliss Mysteries

by Leslie Caine



      Arch business rivals Erin Gilbert and Steve Sullivan made their first appearance in Death By Interior Design (also reviewed on this site) and are now back with another case of interior design and murder.

Erin's new best friend is the wealthy and attractive Laura Smith. Erin has thoroughly enjoyed herself picking out priceless antiques for Laura's beautiful new home, so why is it than when she visits, they seem to have been replaced by cheap reproductions? Her rival Sullivan has plenty to say about the reasons for this, and soon, things are interrupted by a murder. But things get even weirder when Erin suddenly realizes that she isn't sure whom she can trust anymore.

A relatively new convert to the enjoyable sub-genre of the cozy, I was so impressed by the first book in this series - a book I didn't think that I would like due to its length and subject matter - that I requested to review book two. I was concerned that it wouldn't live up to the first book, but I needn't have worried, as this is a fine and unusual tale.

There is much in here to enjoy that lifts it above the realm of standard whodunit fare. The inventive and involving plot, intriguing characters, well realized background and, yes, even those decorating tips. Over three hundred pages is quite a length for this type of story, but those pages are more than filled, and that fills me with admiration. A comparatively small cast of characters means that it is easy to get to know and become interested in the participants, and although the two protagonists are rivals, this is no corny battle of the sexes novel. Even if you don't like cozies give this one a go; as for me, can I wait until Spring 2006 and the release of Manor of Death? Great stuff!

The Book

Dell Mystery (Random House Inc)
July 2005
Paperback
0440241766
Crime [Contemporary, Colorado]
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Rachel A Hyde
Reviewed 2005
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© 2005 MyShelf.com