A Summertime Murder by Mary Grand is a cosy mystery that takes place on the Isle of Wright. I have to admit the cover of the book was a big draw for me. The main character is a bit of a sleuth. She has solved a couple of murders prior to this novel. This is the fifth book in a series and I would suggest that reading the prior books would be helpful. Although I did not and was okay.
Susan, a huge dog lover, helps out getting a cat to the vet for her friend Alice. This opening scene introduces us to the clinic. First there was a mystery of someone breaking into the vets and stealing a bunch of drugs. Then there is a birthday party for one of the vets, Peter and then he disappears.
The rest of the novel focuses on Susan asking lots of questions and talking to lots of people. She seems to have the ability to get people to share information. Her older friend Alice is a strong help figuring out what all the clues lead to. Susan is also dealing with her ex-husband, who seems to be making a play for her again.
There are a large number of people who populate the book, even though the town is very small. I found the number of people overwhelming at the beginning of the book, but by the end it was somewhat easier. I did wish I read the prior books, especially when I realized the first book was on kindle unlimited. I liked the setting and writing, but was not as enthralled with the players.
A Summertime Murder by Mary Grand was an okay read.
