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is it than when she visits, they seem to have been replaced by cheap reproductions?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!