Honeymoons Can Be Murder

Charlie Parker and her new husband Drake have the perfect plan for a honeymoon. He will fly helicopter charters in the Taos ski area and they will stay at the family cabin of Eloy Romero who will be working for Drake. They set off with high hopes but soon they are embroiled in a murder case when Eloy is accused of the murder of his brother several years before. Also they are approached by the cousins of a wealthy heiress, who claim that some of her inheritance is rightfully theirs. With these two cases to work on, Charlie is not idle during Drake's flights. One of the cases is solved fairly easily, but their inquiries into the other one puts Charlie and Drake's life in danger. This is an enjoyable and fast-paced book with the very pleasing background of northern New Mexico, and likeable characters.

Here are some more reviews of Connie Shelton's newest Charlie Parker mystery:"Shelton again has done a superb job in bringing New Mexico to life in her colorful, vivid descriptions." -- The Albuquerque Journal"Honeymoons Can Be Murder presents a delightfully complex mystery. Charlie Parker is an engaging character and it's a treat to follow her personal and professional life." --Romantic Times

Private investigator Charlie Parker has definitely had a tumultuous year as she almost was killed during her last case, had half her house burned down, and even married. Currently, Charlie and her spouse, helicopter pilot Drake are sleeping in her now cramped office quarters, RJP Investigators while repairs occur to their Albuquerque home. When Drake receives a job offer to operate heli-skiing tours at Taos Ski Valley, both jump at it. The couple stays at the cabin of Eloy Romero, the individual working with Drake on the charters. On their second day in Taos, the police arrest Eloy for the murder of his brother, a priest Ram'n. Eloy hires Charlie to find evidence to clear his name. While investigating, Charlie uncovers precious stolen Vatican artifacts and obtains a second client who wants to know whether an heiress is the genuine article. As good as the previous Parker novels have been, the latest Charlie tale, HONEYMOONS CAN BE MURDER, is the best to date. Connie Shelton does a fantastic job of interweaving various New Mexico locales and cultures into the plot so that the state feels lie the land of enchantment. Each major subplot contains a mystery that cleverly ties back to the main story line as Charlie and Drake seek justice for their new friend. It must be rewarding to have a carefree honeymoon as this couple has not. Harriet Klausner

For readers who have been following the Charlie Parker mystery series, we've wondered when Charlie and Drake would get married. The question was answered at the end of the last book, Memories Can Be Murder, and now the two adventurers are on their honeymoon at the well-known Taos Ski Valley. The trip is an extended working vacation, with Drake operating his helicopter service at the ski area for the winter season. When Drake's assistant is accused in a five year old murder case, Charlie steps in to help clear him. They find themselves drawn into the glitzy art world of Taos and learn that the murder may be tied into the theft of a priceless collection of religious artifacts. As usual, Charlie and Drake find themselves in danger as they get closer to the truth. Charlie is an engaging female character, one who is less intimidated by piloting a helicopter than by having to attend a gallery opening frequented by movie stars. I think, and several friends who've read it agree, that this is the best book in the series so far. I recommend them all.