Karen S. (BoysMom) - My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Was it the passion for the old family home that led to murder?
The Greenleaf Murders is the first book in R.J. Koreto's new cozy mystery series, the Historic Homes Mysteries, and it is absolutely a 5-star debut! Not only are readers handed several murders to work out, but they are treated to the fascinating process of restoring a magnificent Gilded Age mansion to its better-than-original state. The stories behind the old home, the factual information of the time, bring glorious color to the home's faded past. However, this is also a solidly modern cozy mystery that happens to hinge on a 100-year-old murder cold case.
The amateur sleuth in the story is a young architect, Wren Fontaine, a junior partner in her father's firm. Her determination and integrity for perfectly restoring the Greenleaf House is a burning passion for her. She's quite an introvert and much more comfortable dealing with her building projects than clients. But she's aware of her nature and is progressing toward overcoming her previous ineptitude in social interactions. She drums up the nerve to initiate a relationship with the distant cousin of the Greenleafs. I also liked Wren's work partner, general contractor Bobby Fiore. He looks after his employees and boss and loves blasting Italian opera from his truck on the worksite. I loved how the two worked together like a well-oiled machine.Feelings run surprisingly hot and high during the home restoration, and Wren's questions put her and her new friend, Hadley Vanderwerf, in danger. There is a surprising clue connecting the cold case and modern-day murder. The resolution made sense, and I was entertained from start to finish. I'm anxiously looking forward to future books in the series.
With its likable main character and historical backdrop, I recommend THE GREENLEAF MURDERS to cozy mystery readers who enjoy historic homes, DIY shows, New York City settings, and the smooth incorporation of a bit of history in their stories.I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.
