Saturday 20 February 2016

Death on the Prairie by Kathleen Ernst (Cosy Mystery, 10E/10E, short 'n' sweet review)

 October 2015, Midnight Ink Press, 360 pages, Ebook, Review copy from NetGalley
 
Content: murder, lots of humour

Summary from Midnight Ink 
Chloe Ellefson and her sister, Kari, have long dreamed of visiting each historic site dedicated to Laura Ingalls Wilder. When Chloe takes custody of a quilt once owned by the beloved author, the sisters set out on the trip of a lifetime, hoping to prove that Wilder stitched it herself.

But death strikes as the journey begins, and trouble stalks their fellow travelers. Among the "Little House" devotees are academic critics, greedy collectors, and obsessive fans. Kari is distracted by family problems, and unexpected news from Chloe's boyfriend jeopardizes her own future. As the sisters travel deeper into Wilder territory, Chloe races to discover the truth about a precious artifact—and her own heart—before a killer can strike again.


Nayu's thoughts. 
 A tour of all things Little House on the Prairie involves murder and mayhem, as well as sisters learning about each other is perfect whether or not you're a Little House on the Prairie fan or not. I read some of the books when I was little, falling in love with the mischief and magic of Laura's life with her family in America. I've reread them many times, adoring all the handicrafts and how they find joy in simply living life, despite it's hardships. I've even watched episodes of the TV series. You don't need to know anything about Laura to enjoy this fun and at times breath holding mystery, although if you do you're in for a treat! 

It's not all about solving the murders of those who are connected with Laura's legacy, which had a wonderful plot twist, but it's about two sisters being forced to be honest with each other after dancing around an issue which needs airing. That in itself made a wonderful story. Families don't always get on, as Chloe knows all too well. Falling out with her sister does bring more danger into the adventure, as well as help Chloe grow as a person and discover more about herself. I loved the interactions of the fellow Laura fans – there is a Laura hater to stir things up too – they embody what fans of anyone/thing are like, passionate, enthusiastic, and mostly fun to be with. Go check it out!

Find out more on Kathleen's website.

2 comments:

Kathleen Ernst said...

I'm so glad you enjoyed the mystery, Nayu! As a long-time devotee of Laura Ingalls Wilder's books, this one was especially fun to write. Thank you for the review.

Nayuleska said...

You're ever so welcome Kathleen! Must re-read Little House books...