A Composition in Murder (Cherry Tucker Mystery, #6)

by Larissa Reinhart

[layawaydragon]

Maybe it’s just me, but as a series progresses, especially cozies, I start to worry. Often the characters fall into a rut based on what worked before and what was once loved becomes stagnate. Do I really need 18+ books with a 30 something woman playing hot potato with two men? Nooooooope.

The great news is Cherry doesn’t follow in other more famous footsteps that jumped off a cliff over a shark and wound up in La-La Land. There’s resolution! Progress! Holy shit, I can’t wait for the next one!

Mainly, it’s in regards to the romance. Todd starts dating someone, Cherry struggles but deals with it so it’s not drawn out stupidity. Her and Luke actually talk about their problems head on and come to an understanding. It’s not all wrapped up in a bow and there’s more to smooth out but I am fucking ecstatic right now, ya’ll have no idea. I was getting worried and frustrated around 50% - 75% of the way through, but if you can make it, the payoff is worth it.

Mysteries are great, but characters are the bedrock. I’ll put up with a disappointing mystery for the characters, not (usually) the other way around.

The good news is this mystery is a lot of fun with many players and pieces to put together. I did think at times it was stretched and Cherry was over the top. How did she not immediately get identified and in trouble of breaking that window? And she was surprised that it hurt?!?

I did call out the culprit about 75% through and Cherry’s stubborn denial at first did bother me, though she has reasons for doing so. We just weren’t on the same page as I already knew who, just not the why’s. I loved finding out that information in the showdown and wrap up.

Anyways, besides brief moments of her panicking into foolish territory and wondering how she functions as an adult, it was a great ride. Cherry kicking it with the seniors was a hoot. I love how she found her elderly counterpart in Ada – hilariously sassy, stubborn, loyal, and too much trouble.