Part of Death on Demand, book 14.5
First published 2003
Four accomplished mystery authors collaborate to deliver fresh stories where mothers take center stage in solving crimes. Mary Daheim brings back Cousin Renie from her popular bed and breakfast series, plunging the busy mother into wedding chaos turned deadly. Carolyn Hart shifts focus to Laurel Darling, the spirited mother-in-law from her Death on Demand books, as she tackles her own investigation. Jane Isenberg introduces Bel Barrett, a mother navigating menopause who must unravel a nanny's suspicious death. Shirley Rousseau Murphy rounds out the collection with her signature feline detectives, featuring mother cats who dig their claws into murder. Each story blends family dynamics with criminal puzzles, showcasing how maternal instincts and life experience make these women formidable investigators. The collection celebrates the unique perspective mothers bring to mystery solving.
Genres: mystery, crime, family-drama
Vibes: cozy, emotional, suspenseful
Tropes: amateur-detective, found-family
352 pages · Mass Market Paperback · Avon