Death Swatch
by Laura Childs
Published by The Penguin Group
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Reviewed by Leslie Granier
Death Swatch is the sixth book in the Scrapbooking Mysteries series.
This story begins with Carmela Bertrand and her friend Ava Gruiex attending a raucous Mardi Gras party in the French Quarter hosted by their friend Jekyl. Everyone is having a grand time until one of the guests, Archie Baudier, is found strangled on the balcony. Archie is a coin collector who has been doing research on pirate Jean Lafitte and his missing treasure. As the investigation into Archie’s murder mounts, numerous suspects and possible motives surface, leading Carmela and Ava on a wild and dangerous adventure.
Although the author does resort to utilizing over-exaggerated examples of Louisiana living (such as illegal alcohol production, plantation life, and language people down there don’t really use), she does a good job of describing New Orleans and its traditions. Being a resident of Southeast Louisiana myself, the setting was realistic enough to be believable to me. She explains some of the unique things about New Orleans, such as the history and traditions involved in Mardi Gras and what a poboy is. She also often refers to Hurricane Katrina and its aftermath.
This book contains many elements that will appeal to women. The strong female characters and their exciting lives will hold their interest. Carmela is the owner of a craft shop, which allows the author to provide tips for scrapbooking and other projects. Also included are recipes for some of the food served at the parties. They are authentic New Orleans recipes that sound quite delicious. There is even a bit of romance as Carmela finds herself attracted to Edgar Babcock, the police officer leading the murder investigation.
Although Death Swatch contains many good points, the ending left me somewhat disappointed. I thought there were too many loose ends that could have been tied up better. Overall, the author captured the fun and merriment of Mardi Gras.
Armchair Interviews says: It is a light read that will provide a break from reality.
Author’s Web site: http://www.LauraChilds.com