The novel approaches the mystery in a roundabout way, introducing the characters carefully, so that even if you didn't read the first book in the series, you will soon be in the swing of things! Our reluctant mystery maven is Ginger, who has accompanied her husband Earl to an Expo for budding inventors in Nevada. Joining her are a few of her BHN buddies (BHN=Bargain Hunters Network), who are hoping to hit the sales big time at the nearby outlet mall.

The plot line quickly gets tricky, with a pompous, egotistical hotel owner and his assorted ex-wives, lovers, children and employees, who either love him or hate him. Combine this devious, crooked character with his bizarre hotel, dancing six-foot costumed teddy bears, having to share convention space with the odd squirrel-lovers organization, and broken air-conditioning. All the elements are there for disaster, murder and shenanigans. Ms. Dunn combines her mystery's component parts with great ease, making you care that young BHN member, Kindra, has fallen for one of the bear costume wearers, and that Earl, Ginger's husband, is having trouble getting recognition for his invention. As the mystery comes to its conclusion, the reader should delight in the way Sharon Dunn keeps all the reins in her hand until the final denouement. This book is a fun way to spend a rainy weekend, or the perfect companion on a plane trip or train ride. Enjoy!