Murder at the Montrose Mansion

A Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper

Fiction - Mystery - Sleuth
406 Pages
Reviewed on 04/26/2022
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    Book Review

Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite

Murder at the Montrose Mansion: A Mallory Beck Cozy Culinary Caper by Denise Jaden is the fifth book in the series. Mallory has struggled to redefine her life since the loss of her husband which she was able to do through her friendship with Amber who brings fun and happiness back into her world. Amber has a personality that is young, idealistic, and opinionated which are qualities that add to the story and make for the perfect partner-in-crime. Mallory has big plans to give Amber a sweet sixteen she won't forget. Those plans included delicious cupcakes, not murder by a tiger. When Mallory's friend Alex Martinez is drawn away on a case, Mallory and Amber have bigger problems to face after the evidence points to Amber's uncle. As the two dig into the investigation, they have to decide whether or not her uncle is innocent, but all they can do is follow where the evidence leads. A delicious recipe for Salted Rum Caramel Tartlets is included.

Denise Jaden delivers a mystery series that shines yet again, primarily thanks to the dynamic between the two characters. Their relationship is a sweet and genuine friendship, and together they make solving mysteries funny and enjoyable. Amber adds innocence to the story that comes from her youth and is used as a way to brighten Mallory's day. She also has the wisdom to see the world a little differently and this helps her view the cases they solve in a way that complements Mallory's own sleuthing. The mystery series stems from the bond people can have over shared grief. This gave them the healing they each needed while also introducing an amateur sleuth element into the story. The relationship with Alex is a slow-burn possibility that is complicated as he's one of her closest friends and she's still dealing with who she is after her husband's death. The flirty connection and chemistry between them make for a sweet dose of romance. The mystery has an eccentric and dramatic undertone with the connection to Amber's family and the pet tiger as the murder weapon. This is one of those mysteries that evoke the feeling of being curled up in front of a fire. A feel-good mystery, Murder at the Montrose Mansion includes friendship, humor, murder, and sweet recipes.