Sweet, charming and meh is how I’d describe this latest title from Laura Lippman. Having lived in B’more I always love going down memory lane in her descriptions of the city and familiar places and restaurants. This book seemed to me to be more ofLaura Lippman’s reflection on life and what’s transpired. The story was unbelievable in many ways and a cozy mystery is another word that comes to mind. Not her best.

As a fan of Lippman, I was disappointed in this book. It was not the level of writing or plot that I expected. Mrs. Blossom takes a trip and lots of very bad stuff happens to her. There was simply too much of a reach to find any level of believability or allow me to buy into her character.

I also hated the endless use of her name, MRS. BLOSSOM, as a narrative device. It reminded me of reading children’s book where names are repeated as a cognitive device to improve reading and word recognition.

I know Lippman is a brilliant writer, but this novel certainly is not a good example of her talent.

Thank you Netgalley for this novel.