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Book Review of Death at the Day Lily Cafe (Rosalie Hart, Bk 2)

Death at the Day Lily Cafe (Rosalie Hart, Bk 2)
dollycas avatar reviewed on + 658 more book reviews


Dollycas's Thoughts

A couple of months ago received an offer to review this book. I took one look at the cover and knew I had to read this story. I also knew I had to invite the author to visit here for Cozy Wednesday. I was delighted when she accepted. I had not read the first book in the series but I threw that rule of mine right out the window too, but now I plan to go back and read it. Let me tell you why.

Rosalie Hart is one of those characters you root for to succeed. She had an ex-husband that cheated on her and she divorces him and moves to her aunt's farmhouse in Maryland. The first book covers that and from the synopsis much more.

In this installment she opens the Day Lily Café serving organic fruits, vegetables and eggs from her organic farm. Opening day has arrived and instead of worrying about her restaurant her friend, Doris Bird, rushes in and begs Rosalie for her help. Doris' sister Lori is the prime suspect in a murder. A murder she most certainly didn't commit, but the dead man was Lori's husband and she did have motive, means and opportunity. So all Rosalie's friends pitch in both at the café and the investigation especially when Rosalie's daughter Annie ends up in danger.

There is a strong feeling of friendship between these characters woven throughout the entire story. Some are still getting to know each other, just like us readers. Sometimes Rosalie's questions are little off putting but you know she means well. She needs to know parts of their other's histories not only to eliminate them as suspects but also because she wants to get to know them better. There is plenty of room for growth in each and every character in future stories.

The murder takes place away from the café and Rosalie is not the one to actually find the body which is very different in this genre. I liked this change, clues and the investigation are seen from a different perspective. The author also touches on subjects not usually found in cozy mysteries giving it a more edgy feel.

The author is very descriptive in her writing from what people are wearing, to what food they are eating. She also sets the scene very well. The Day Lily Café sounds like and from the cover looks like an amazing place.

I found this to be a very enjoyable read, I really liked the ending. A great little preview of what can be coming in book #3. If you haven't read Murder at Barclay Meadow, start there and then you will be ready to rush right into this one.