Set in a less hectic time, readers wanting a somewhat leisurely read will enjoy this mystery set in New York City during Christmas, 1936. Kitty and husband Matt receive a telegram in England telling them her NYC based father is ill. Although her relationship with her father is, well, complicated, they're on a ship heading to New York. The voyage isn't a smooth one but when they arrive, they discover her father not only living in an upscale apartment overlooking Central Park, but that he's far from seriously ill. Nevertheless, the decide to spend the holiday there, enjoying all 1936 NYC has to offer. They're enjoying the scenery, which includes ice skating and a lovely tree, not to mention the shopping and delicious food to be had. Then, there's a murder.
This is really where the story begins. Kitty knows her father is occasionally, well, frequently involved in less than lawful activities and fears he may be accused. That said, as much as I enjoy Kitty and Matt, it seemed like the investigation was largely Kitty snooping rather than professional. I've got to admit that I was somewhat disappointed in that as I was thinking it'd be interesting to see the contrasting styles of American and British investigators of the time, not to mention seeing how they might work together (or not). Hence a 3.5 rounded to 4 stars. In any case, as Kitty surely knows by now, trying to eavesdrop can get you in trouble. Matt's skills come into play, too, and we're reminded of his past injuries in the war and how they may impact his efforts. I'd forgotten he once routinely suffered from sleep walking, for instance, which explains Kitty's worry when he isn't beside her when she wakes in the night. In any case, they're a likable couple and even her father, while rather furtive at times, seems likable enough. Unfortunately, not all the people they meet are the same and it's up to their smarts and instincts to sort out whodunit.
Bottom line, a pleasant read. While more leisurely than more modern cozies, after all, this one is set in a pre-techie time when communications and police work were slower in nature, it's difficult not to like this young, adventurous couple. I liked that the author included some of Matt's background and felt this one worked as a standalone. I honestly wasn't sure of the culprit until the end, either, which is always fun, if frustrating for those of us who try to solve it before our sleuths. Thanks #Bookouture for giving me an early peek at how life is going for Kitty and Matt. It was great fun to visit and tour NYC in a far less hectic, complicated time. I could just envision the colorful lights, figure skaters, and sights and sounds of 1936 New York City.
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