Kristina A. reviewed on 9/10/2019 + 1528 more book reviews

A Curio Killing by Mary Ellen Hughes is the third novel in A Keepsake Cove Mystery series. Callie Reed owns House of Melody in Keepsake Cove, Maryland. The Keepsake Cove Spring Festival begins the next day and it will be Callie's first time experiencing it. She is shocked when her old boyfriend, Hank walks into the shop and learns his band will be performing at the festival. The festival is a hit until the band's manager, Bobby Linville is found murdered and Hank is arrested. Hank has no one else to call and Callie feels compelled to help him. A Curio Killing can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. Callie Reed, Brian Greer, Delia Hamilton, Tabitha and the other collectible shop owners have returned in A Curio Killing. Delia's costume photographer friend, Jill comes for the festival. I liked her concept of photographing people in costumes (historical and superhero). With Hank arrested for his manager's murder, Callie jumps in to help him. She is certain that he did not commit the crime. Callie questions band members and follows leads in her search for the killer. There were some interesting aspects to the mystery including the murder weapon and some unexpected revelations. I did feel, though, that Callie was willing to risk too much for the sake of a cheating ex-boyfriend. Her mother is having surgery and would appreciate Callie flying to Portland to be there for her and her current husband. While Brian said he understand why Callie was helping Hank, you could tell that he was not happy with the whole situation. I missed Tabitha's unique outfits in A Curio Killing. They add a touch of whimsy and humor. I just love the description of Callie's little cottage with its red siding and sage green door (I would have a navy blue door). A Curio Killing is a light cozy mystery with curious collectibles, cryptic clues, fun photos, chancy conflagrations, and suspicious singer.

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