Kristina A. reviewed on 7/10/2017 + 1528 more book reviews

Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My by Denise Swanson is the sixth book in A Deveraux's Dime Store Mystery series. Deveraux Sinclair lives in Shadow Bend, Missouri where she owns and runs Devereaux's Dime Store and Gift Baskets. It is October and Deveraux is working on her Halloween display when a man comes into the store looking for Jake Del Vecchio who is renting office space above Deveraux's store for his PI practice (and he can see more of Deveraux this way). Elliot Winston is looking for his missing wife, Gabriella. Gabriella disappeared leaving behind her wallet, cellphone, car and clothing. The police are not convinced it is a kidnapping and have referred Elliot to Jake. Elliot has heard about Deveraux's sleuthing skills and wants to enlist her help as well. Elliot is trying to open a wildlife park on land he owns outside town and his wife (along with many townspeople) object to his venture. Then Elliot receives a ransom demand. Jake and Deveraux set out to catch the kidnapper and return Gabriella to her husband. Jake takes the case and is happy to be spending time with Deveraux. Dr. Noah Underwood, Deveraux's other love interest, is less than thrilled. When Jake asks Deveraux to go on a weekend getaway, Deveraux knows it is time to make a choice between the two men in her life. Poppy Kincaid had another brouhaha with her father, Chief Eldridge Kincaid. It is time for the them to mend the fences, and Deveraux sets out to bring them together. She is the perfect mediator since she has a good relationship with both parties. Just another ordinary week for Deveraux Sinclair!

Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My contains well-developed characters. Deveraux is a unique woman who has intelligence, determination, loyalty, and good family values. I thought the novel contained good writing, had a nice pace and was easy to read. This cozy mystery is lively and absorbing. While Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My is the sixth book in this series, it can be read alone. All the background details are mixed in with the story. I do, though, recommend each book in the series. I am rating Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My 4 out of 5 stars. The romance element was more prevailing in this book than in others in the series. There are dinner dates and a couple of steamy make out sessions (along with lustful thoughts). I am happy that the love triangle is finally resolved (sorry I do not want to spoil it for you)! There is some mild foul language that I wish the author had no included (it is not needed). The mystery was not challenging. Most readers will solve it long before the reveal. Lions and Tigers and Murder, Oh My has all the cozy elements that make for an engaging cozy mystery novel. There is family, humor, friends, small town charm, romance, a mystery, and good characters. The story with a cliffhanger that has me looking forward to the next A Deveraux's Dime Story Mystery tale.

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