Book 1 in the Little Mallow cosy mystery series
Two murders, a party of disguised suspects, and a seaside village full of cake.
Why send invitations to a party in a building which doesn’t yet exist? Why plan and pay for it anonymously and insist guests come in disguise? Police Officer Crystal Clere is only mildly curious, as she has a murder to solve. And cakes to bake, romances to fix, friends and an elderly relative in need of help.
When the new hall is built, and Crystal belatedly receives a party invitation, there’s an opportunity to solve some of her problems. Wearing a fake moustache she’s having fun and making progress, until one of the guests is murdered.
Community spirit is strong in Little Mallow and everyone seems to be involved. Half are suspects – all with alibis. The many witnesses don’t know what they saw. Crystal is asking, and being asked, countless questions. Who planned and paid for the party? Are they the killer? Is there a link with the first murder? Nobody is giving her answers, but she’s assisted by an extremely unofficial sidekick and her friends are happy to supply far-fetched theories.
Can Crystal Clere see through all the distraction to bring love and justice to Little Mallow?
Available through kindle unlimited, and as a paperback or ebook here. The paperback version is available from most online book retailers and can be ordered through bookshops or requested in libraries.
Review extracts
“A fun read, with lots of clues and red herrings” JC Amazon.com 5 stars
“This has been thoroughly researched and we are privy to the goings-on with the two crimes as Crystal uncovers more information.
Patsy’s humour comes through in bursts throughout” Marguerite Amazon 5 stars
“Thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was a great read in the cozy crime genre. The characters are well developed, the pace is just perfect and Crystal’s (the main character) voice is strong throughout.” SM Goodreads 5 stars
“Patsy is so good at creating characters who you care about and so you want to engage in their stories, as well as concocting a darn good mystery to solve. It kept me guessing till the end.” Cliff Amazon 5 stars
“Loved this book. A vey enjoyable cosy mystery. Kept me guessing right until the murderer was revealed. GW Amazon.UK 4 stars
“an enjoyable and amusing cosy crime, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing.” JB Amazon.uk 4 stars
“a great read” PRC Amazon.uk 4 stars