A Killer’s Guide to Good Works - A Review

A Killer’s Guide
to Good Works

by

Shelley Costa

A Review

This is the second book that I have had the privilege of reviewing by Shelley Costa. As I said earlier, it is obvious that Ms. Costa is an experienced and talented writer.  The story is compelling and holds the reader’s interest from the first page to the end. Though there is little to tie this story to the earlier book, the story does continue right where the earlier work finished.

The book begins on the  coast of Spain in the late 16th century; but moves quickly into the 21st century England and New York. The characters have their roots in the religious (Bale) and literary (Val) worlds of their preferred professions. The third main character is an historian, alas, a deceased historian. However, it is Arian’s death, the brother and best friend of the other key characters, that holds the story together.

The writing is superb, among the best I have seen from those writing cozy mysteries. The history, the details, and the well defined plot all contribute to an excellent tale. With most of the story taking place in mid-spring, the reader begins to feel as he or she is truly visiting New York City with its crowded streets, taxi cabs, and ethnic restaurants on every street corner. The reader gets to share the Jewish, Italian, and Asian fare that defines this modern metropolitan city. And like most cozy mysteries there is a hint of romance, a hint that leaves the reader wondering if it will grow into something more in future iterations of these characters.

It is easy to give the book a 5-star review without hesitation.

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This review is based on a free electronic copy provided by the publisher for the purpose of creating this review.  The opinions expressed are my own.