Hearing sirens on a romantic getaway can't be a good sign.
By sheer serendipity, I heard sirens in the distance here at home just as Sam and Melanie hear them at the White Birch Inn. I was already so into the story at that point that I actually shivered at the sound, thinking I'd somehow magically created it. In any case, that's the power of this series and this book. You are immediately drawn in and care about the characters, especially when there are sirens. So much for Melanie's Valentine's Day vacation, huh? You just know she'd be drawn into the investigation.
It was great fun to spend some time with Melanie and Sam, who usually isn't as visible in the series, not to mention brother, Frank, and her SIL, Bertie. All are likable and people you'd surely enjoy hanging out with, especially if lucky enough to be able to do so at a winter wonderland style fairy tale resort. I was glad to see that Mel didn't let the murder totally distract her and loved the ambiance of the hayride and such, even if Sam made a note not to ask Frank to partner him in any future athletic contests after one archery tournament. It did rather give me pause as Mel made frequent references to her beloved dog Fern's advancing age. While I fully understand that unlike most, this series allows its cast to age, I hope it isn't preparing us for a sad goodbye to sweet, faithful Fern. The dogs are always an important aspect of this series, let's face it, and that is what drew many readers.
As for the murder, like most, it's complicated. Initially, it's thought the victim simply died of exposure to the bitter cold. But, why would someone from upstate New York, where bitter cold is a given, not be aware of the dangers of prolonged exposure to frigid temperatures. Why was Belinda outside anyway? Why is Cliff so nasty to Melanie? Even Fern growls at him. Why is Melanie getting involved anyway? Will her not too oblique questioning get her in trouble? She seems to immediately put Harley in a defensive mode on the hayride. How does Jill prove helpful? Or, is she really helping? Who....oh, more than enough teasers. It's a fun, quick read with interesting characters in what appears to be a fairy tale setting....with snow.... and Faith is there for us dog lovers. Who did it? Not telling. As I said. It's complicated. Read the book. You won't regret it and if this is your first meeting with Melanie, you'll probably be rushing to read earlier stories. This series is that good.
Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for allowing me to tag along on Mel's Valentine's holiday. Always fun to see regulars in a new setting.
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