Evil in Carnations (Flower Shop Mysteries, No. 8)

I love the humor and clever themes of Kate Collins and she keeps getting better and better. It was fun to see Abby and Marco finally working on the murder case together. Her charactors are so funny and lovable, and Kate makes you feel like you get to know them very well, and can almost predict that there is going to be another hilarious moment. Can't wait until the next book.

Abby Knight is back for the eighth book of the series. Abby and Marco are trying to mend their relationship and decide to sneak to Key West for a weekend getaway. Abby empathizes with Nikki, her roommate, because her boyfriend just ended their relationship. To help heal Nikki's broken heart, Abby decides to attend a speed dating event with Nikki. Much to Abby's chagrin, Nikki chooses the one guy that Abby did not like. Breaking the "no contact" rule, Nikki exchanges phone numbers with Jonas Treat and agrees to go out with him, all the while keeping this a secret from Abby. When Abby returns from her weekend with Marco, Nikki gets arrested for homicide. Abby agrees to help Nikki, however Nikki repeatedly sabotages the case by not being forthcoming with Abby. Soon Abby begins to doubt Nikki's innocence and questions how well does she really know her best friend. While trying to figure out who killed Jonas, Abby is also trying to keep her weekend getaway a secret from her family, especially her mother. If her family knew about Key West, they would assume she and Marco were getting serious. . .which meant marriage. Abby is aware of her feelings for Marco, however she's not sure if she's ready for marriage. Although the killer is easy to spot, this book is a great addition to the series. While it centers around solving the murder, the reader learns more about Abby's relationship with Marco. One can't help but to wonder what the future holds for them. 4.5/5

This is typical Kate Collins. If you've enjoyed her in the past, you will continue to enjoy her with this latest novel. Her characters are real and enjoyable. If you haven't yet discovered Kate Collins, do so with the first in this series, "Mum's The Word". My husband and I have both gotten hooked on her writing. We can hardly wait for her next one!

At least in this case with Nikki trying to get over her boyfriend. Speed dating doesn't seem to work very well for Abby's roommate. Especially when Nikki is accused of killing her date. Abby is flabbergasted that someone would accuse Nikki of harming anyone. So, she had Marco and her friends gather all the information they can find, to absolve Nikki of this murder. Can she do it? Read the book and find out. I am always happy to read a "Flower Shop "mystery. Kate Collins does a great job with the characters and plot. I keep coming back for more. A nice cozy mystery series.

Why does it seem like forever between books in a great series? Number 8 in this line-up is worth the wait, though. Things are heating up between Abby and Marco, so Abby tries to help her best friend find true love, too...but things do not go according to Abby's perfect plan! And we get to know Marco's family better now, for better or worse. (!) This is a fun read and the series definitely continues to please.