Barking Up The Right Tree

by Leigh Russell

Reviewed by Wendy H. Jones

Cosy mysteries are a new departure for Leigh Russell, so I was delighted to be sent an advance reader copy from the publisher. I like Leigh Russell’s books and I like a cosy mystery; this book was a perfect combination for me.

Blurb

When Emily's boyfriend walks out, she is devastated. As she is puzzling over what to do with the rest of her life, she is surprised to learn that her great aunt has died, leaving Emily her cottage in the picturesque Wiltshire village of Ashton Mead. This inheritance comes with a condition: Emily must take care of her great aunt's pet. Not knowing what to expect, Emily sets off for the village, hoping to make a new life for herself.

In the village, she soon makes friends with Hannah who runs the Sunshine Tea Shoppe, and meets other residents of the village where she decides to settle. All is going well... until her unknown pet arrives. Then Emily's exboyfriend turns up and against the advice of her new friends, she takes him back.

When her next-door neighbour's daughter disappears in mysterious circumstances, Emily decides to investigate, unwittingly putting her own life in danger...

Review

This is a light story, which is a quick read, but ticks all the boxes when it comes to cosy mysteries. It has a sleuth who has nothing to do with the crime fighting community, a best friend to bounce ideas off and a hot boyfriend who functions as both support and a stable influ- ence. Of course, the ex-boyfriend throws a spanner in the works by appearing back on the scene and causing havoc. One cannot forget the dog, a bundle of mischievous puppy, who helps Emily with the investigation. The tale is well written, draws the reader in and keeps them reading. I did feel, if I were to be hypercritical, that the main character jumped to conclusions a little quickly but, in the end, it all worked out and the book is a good read. I liked all the characters and enjoyed the first in this new series. I am looking forward to reading more.

Easter

by Lis McDermott

The scents of Spring herald growth and new birth,

From the deep, dark soil, buds coaxed by the suns heat, spread forth in their brightest greens adorning the earth.

After Winter’s cold, uninviting season a welcome gift so sweet.

Children spend countless hours decorating bonnets and eggs, excited to eat their weight in chocolate, enjoying family fun.

Around the house they charge, carried by eager legs, on their bunny-trail, happy faces raised towards the warm sun.

Whilst innocents play games to win their chocolate prize, Christians celebrate the day on which their saviour did arise.

All over the world, women in their communities prepare to grace their places of worship with flowers fit for a king,

Gathering garlands of Tulips, Irises, Mary’s Tears and Lilies so fair, praying their efforts will bring joy and happiness as choirs sing.

Lis lives in Royal Wootton Bassett with her husband Conrad, with whom she shares a love of music and films. After a long career in music within education, and as an OFSTED inspector, Lis began to focus on her other passions, photography, and writing. Working as professional headshot photographer and writing coach.

She has since published numerous books on photography, poetry, short stories, and romantic suspense.