Bell, Book, and Scandal

Amazing how Ms. Churchill stays ever fresh and new through changing her area of operations for the two leading ladies of this many-volumed series and coming up again and again with an entirely new performance arena, a new set of fellow actors, and ever-fresh motives.

Unlike most of the other reviewers of this book who gave it a low rating, I liked it very much and give it a high rating. I think it is refreshing to find a mystery book that does not involve a murder. I enjoyed spending time with Jane and Shelley in what I consider more normal circumstances. How many of us encounter a murder every few months? This book was about two women friends attending a mystery writers conference, the characters they meet, and two non-murder mysterious events. It did not have me on the edge of my seat or give me nightmares - thank goodness. It was an enjoyable, light read - no vulgar language, no vicious murder, no creepiness. I felt like I was reading about the activities of my own kind of friends - nice people who get involved, are curious, and like most women in this world, constantly change their minds! Jill Churchill took a chance writing this non-murder mystery and according to the majority of reviews, folks were not pleased. However, this happy reader enjoyed the breezy writing and the two every-day type of mysteries - and spending time with Jane and Shelley.

When aspiring novelist Jane Jeffry gets a brochure in the mail about a writing conference coming to her town, her best friend and neighbor Shelley Novacks persuades her to go. Shelley also decides to attend. She and Jane register for the plush free suite that is available to the Novacks at all times. Jane is so motivated that she finally completes the mystery she has been working on for years.On the opening day of the conference, Jane meets one of her favorite writers who turns out to be a very sweet and friendly person. At the opening ceremony the speaker editor Sophie Smith falls ill and is rushed to the hospital where she has her stomach pumped. A little while later, Zac Zebra, writer turned reviewer, is found unconscious in the hotel parking lot. In between agent and editor conferences and seminars, and costume parties, Jane tries to figure out the link between the two incidents and who is responsible.It is always fun to read a new Jane Jeffry mystery and BELL, BOOK AND SCANDAL is strong evidence of why. The author captures the ambiance of a writers' convention to perfection, using it as the back drop for an enjoyable mystery. Fans of cozies and amateur sleuth who-done-its in which nobody is killed and no blood is shed will find this work charming and entertaining. The story line is lighthearted filled with humor and does not take itself too seriously.Harriet Klausner