Book 54, 2018

Scent of a Killer by Lisbeth Reade

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Finished reading an ebook last night -- Scent of a Killer by Lisbeth Reade. It's the first installment in the "Ella Sweeting Aromatherapy Magic" mystery series, featuring aromatherapist, witch, and socialite Ella Sweeting.

On Ella's 22nd birthday, she is visited by three mad aunts, all of whom tell Ella that she is a witch. Ella's mother has tried to keep that knowledge from her, but she gives in and doesn't interfere when Sarah, Hazel, and Joe begin to teach Ella about her magical heritage. With the three aunties come two talking cats, Livvie and Trouble. Ella is enjoying her newfound family, until the neighbor lady is murdered. Ella discovers Vanessa's body, and while she is horrified, she is also curious about the odd perfume/cologne she detects at the scene. With her mother and her aunts on the list of potential suspects, Ella begins her own investigation, aided by Rory, the cute mailman.

Well. The story was alright for a quick, light read. It was charming for the most part, but the writing was rather juvenile. There were editing errors that distracted. Characters did have some depth, but there was a lot of flouncing and tantrums from supposed adults. I did love the cats.

Favorite line: "I will stay here to make some calls and keep the cats company..."

Entertaining premise, flat execution. Average score of three stars:

***