A charming bed and breakfast, a picturesque town, and a murder most foul
Sounds like the perfect setting for a cozy mystery, right?
Well, that’s precisely what you get with Mary Daheim’s _Wed and Buried (Bed-And-Breakfast Mysteries (Paperback))_.
Published in 1994, this delightful whodunit introduces us to Judith McMonigle Flynn, the owner of the Hillside Manor B&B, and plunges her headfirst into a world of intrigue and suspicion when a guest turns up dead.
A Quick Look at Hillside Manor
_Wed and Buried_ is the first book in Daheim’s long-running Bed-And-Breakfast Mysteries series
The story unfolds in the quaint, fictional town of Alpine, Washington, where Judith navigates not only the daily challenges of running a B&B but also the unexpected chaos of a murder investigation. Daheim paints a vivid picture of small-town life, complete with quirky characters and a strong sense of community, making the mystery all the more engaging. The author’s intention is clear: to create a lighthearted yet suspenseful read that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Unpacking _Wed and Buried_
_Wed and Buried_ is structured in a traditional chapter format, each one advancing the plot and revealing more about the characters and their secrets
Daheim’s writing style is easy to follow, making it a perfect pick for those who enjoy a relaxed reading experience. The characters are well-developed, with Judith being a particularly relatable and likable protagonist
The plot unfolds at a steady pace, offering a good balance between character development and mystery unraveling
While the mystery itself is engaging, some readers might find the resolution a tad predictable
However, the charm of the setting and the witty banter between the characters more than make up for this minor flaw.
A Body in the B&B: Delving into the Narrative
_Wed and Buried_ opens with the arrival of a peculiar group of guests at Hillside Manor
Among them is a wealthy and rather unpleasant woman who quickly makes enemies
When this woman is found dead, suspicion falls upon several residents of Alpine, including Judith’s own family members
Judith, with her innate curiosity and determination, takes it upon herself to uncover the truth, even if it means putting herself in danger. She embarks on an amateur sleuthing adventure, interviewing the quirky townsfolk, following cryptic clues, and piecing together the puzzle of who committed the crime and why. The story takes several twists and turns, keeping the reader guessing until the very end
Daheim cleverly weaves together red herrings and unexpected revelations, making for a truly satisfying mystery experience.
Cozy Up with _Wed and Buried_
_Wed and Buried_ is a classic cozy mystery, perfect for readers who enjoy lighthearted stories with a touch of suspense
Daheim’s writing style creates a comfortable sense of familiarity, making you feel like you’re right there in the heart of Alpine, Washington, experiencing the charm and intrigue firsthand
The book’s well-developed characters and charming setting add to its overall appeal
While the mystery may not be the most complex, it’s still an enjoyable read that will keep you entertained from beginning to end. For those looking for an escape from the everyday grind, a relaxing read by the fire, or a delightful vacation companion, _Wed and Buried_ is an excellent choice
It’s a testament to how a good cozy mystery can capture your imagination and leave you wanting more.
Who Should Check into Hillside Manor?
_Wed and Buried_ is ideal for fans of cozy mysteries, especially those who appreciate small-town settings and relatable characters
If you’re looking for a lighthearted escape with a touch of suspense, this book is definitely worth picking up
It’s also a great choice for readers new to the cozy mystery genre, as it offers a classic example of what makes these stories so appealing
If you’re in dire straits and seeking a comfort read, the _Wed and Buried_ paperback is a fantastic option. You’ll fall in love with the town of Alpine, its cast of quirky characters and Judith McMonigle Flynn. For more delightful cozy mysteries and insights into the genre, check out this comprehensive guide on Goodreads (www.goodreads.com).
Happy reading!
