Book 81, 2023

Downward Death by Stella Bixby

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



I finished an ebook last night--Downward Death by Stella Bixby. It's the first book in her "Magical Mane" cozy mystery series. Main character is Ellie Vanderwick, whose hair responds to her emotions by changing color and/or texture.

About all Ellie has going for her is her pet pig, Penelope, and her VW bus, Mona. She's between jobs and on the verge of living out of Mona again when she receives a letter from a grandmother she never knew. Esme has died, leaving her farm in Iowa to Ellie. With no other choice, Ellie travels to Cliff Haven. It's a delightful small town, and Ellie hopes to make a fresh new start. However, when a dead man is found in her cornfield everyone suspects Ellie, the newcomer, of committing the crime. Ellie is determined to clear her name. If only she can keep her hair under control.

This was a fun story, and I enjoyed it thoroughly. But...( Spoilers )

What I liked most were the characterizations, the fact that the love interest isn't in law enforcement, Ellie's tenacity, and the quick pace.

Favorite line: "I've gone to church here since the Sunday after I was born."

The story had plenty of drawbacks, but I found it entertaining. Four stars.

( Trope Test )