|
Daisy
Arthur, a retired special education teacher, joins a romance
writing critique group that includes a flirtatious priest
along with other aspiring writers and an established author.
Daisy learns that conflict can make or break a manuscript,
yet doubts she'll ever become published when she receives
negative criticism from the group members, yet she doesn't
give up. When the priest is found murdered and the second
male member of their group is found dead, the remaining members
come under suspicion, Daisy included.
Gabe Caerphilly, a lieutenant on Littleton, Colorado's police
force, is assigned to investigate the murder. He's the single
father of one of Daisy's favorite former students and, for
a while after her husband's death, Daisy thought that maybe
she and Gabe would become romantic partners, but his job took
priority. Now he considers Daisy a possible murder suspect.
Worse, his female partner, Sergeant Taylor, is determined
to see Daisy put behind bars. Talk about true life conflict!
I loved this aspect of the novel, for Daisy's got fodder for
a mystery when she longs only for romance.
Ms. Malik has drawn several loveable characters in this entertaining
cozy mystery with wonderful touches of humor. Daisy is somewhat
of a daydreamer, yet a sensitive and understanding person
who can stand up for herself when necessary. Her young next
door neighbor, Chip, is a charmer who drops in unexpectedly
to invite himself to dinner or ask Daisy to watch his large
dog - a four legged character that Gabe, fortunately, handles
with expertise. What made the book truly enjoyable was knowing
that Daisy longed for Gabe to apply some of that loving expertise
her way.
While the murder plot is well developed, it's the characters
that make this novel an enjoyable cozy mystery and thoroughly
entertaining read. Faith on the Rocks truly rocks!
|
