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Murder in Miniature
A Miniature Mystery #1

by Margaret Grace



      Geraldine (Gerry) Porter, widow and part-time teacher, is chairwoman of the local Doll House and Miniature Fair. Her ten year old granddaughter, Maddie, is visiting from California and Gerry hopes to interest her in her own hobby of making miniatures.

Her friend and fellow miniaturist, Laura Reed, has lots of problems, including her teenage adopted son, Jason. Among other things, Jason may have been involved in a jewelry store robbery. And then Laura has issues with two ex-husbands.

Gerry and Laura are exhibitors at the show and have booths side by side. Laura asks Gerry to watch her booth, but doesn't come back, even after the show is over. Gerry finds Laura’s car still in the parking lot. However, Laura calls Gerry in the middle of the night to pick her up. The next morning a woman is found murdered next to the telephone booth from which Laura had made her call. There is another murder with Laura's Governor Winthrop miniature turning up in a most alarming place. Gerry's life becomes threatened when she starts asking questions. With her detective nephew Skip, she must investigate to protect herself and Maddie.

Would that we all had a 10 year old granddaughter as precocious as Maddie! The relationship between grandmother and granddaughter is heartwarming. The plot is well constructed, with the dialogue written in a way that is real. The characters are well drawn and lifelike, reminding us of people we know.

Enter the world of miniatures at your peril. The art of making miniatures is so intriguing that although I have not been involved with crafts for a long time, I am sorely tempted to begin again with miniatures. I am beginning to look around for items I can use! The book, in addition to being an enjoyable and suspenseful read, is crammed with advice and hints on the art of miniature making.

Recommended for a few pleasant hours of relaxation

The Book

Berkley Prime Crime
February 2008
Mass Market Paperback
9780425219805
Mystery
More at Amazon.com
Excerpt
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The Reviewer

Barbara Buhrer
Reviewed 2008
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