Synopsis: So far Meg Langslow's summer is not going swimmingly. Down in her small Virginia
hometown, she's maid of honor at the nuptials of three loved ones--each of whom
has dumped the planning in her capable hands. One bride is set on including a
Native American herbal purification ceremony, while another wants live peacocks
on the law. Only help from the town's drop-dead gorgeous hunk, disappointingly
rumored to be gay, keeps Meg afloat in a sea of dotty relatives and outrageous
neighbors.And, in whirl of summer parties and picnics, Southern hospitality is strained to the limit by an offensive newcomer who hints at skeletons in the guests' closets. But it seems this lady has offended one too many when she's found dead in suspicious circumstances, followed by a string of accidents--some fatal. Soon, level-headed Meg's to-do list extends from flower arrangements and bridal registries to catching a killer--before the next catered event is her own funeral... (from the back of the book)
Review: I picked this up based purely on the personality of the author, who was a guest speaker at the first writer's conference I attend. The author, Donna Andrews, was witty, well-spoken, helpful and funny - and I am not surprised to find her work is the same.
Not normally a fan of modern mystery, I made an exception for this one given that the first line of the book made me laughed out loud. Andrews' characters are hilarious, well-defined, unique and lovable (or not-so-lovable) and the plot is well done. Now, I guess early on who-dun-it, but had no idea how or if I was correct until the end, which makes a good mystery to me.
I highly recommend this if you enjoy humor and mystery and outrageous characters!
Bookmarks: 7 of 10
Awards:
1999 Agatha Award for Best First Novel
2000 Anthony Award for Best First Novel
2000 Barry Award for Best First Novel
2000 Lefty Award
2000 Finalist for Dilys Award
1999 Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award for Best First Mystery
Date Finished: 3-19-2012
Pages: 312
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