Veiled Threats (Carnegie Kincaid, Book 1)

I read this book after the second in the series, which was a mistake -- you need to read this series in order because suspects in book 1 are still around in book 2. But even knowing that, and even though I had a good idea who the bad folk were (probably because the red herrings didn't work for someone who had read book 2 so they were innocent in book 1, right?), I still found myself on the edge of my proverbial seat, worried about the obvious trap the "detective" (wedding consultant Carnegie) was walking into. "Don't get into the car!" I wanted to tell her. And then I reminded myself that 1) it's jsut a book and 2) you know she's still around for another book. The plot involves a wedding that Carnegie is planning -- for a sweet young woman from a wealthy family. The bride's father is about to testify in an S & L scandal, and it appears that someone wants to frighten him out of doing that. Strange things start happening, including the death of a bridesmaid that apparently was an accident -- the intent had been a terrible accident for the bride. Things continue to go downhill as the attacks intensify, finally placing our plucky wedding consultant in peril. Yes, this book has some of the rawness of a first book -- but the pacing made up for it, in my opinion. This may not be great literature, but it's an enjoyable read that will keep you turning the pages.

I really enjoyed this book. The descriptions of Seattle were perfect and definitely contributed to the enjoyment of the story. The characters are great, well defined and fun to be with. Modest amount of safe sex, great romantic lead, and a sharp-witted, sharp-tongued protagonist. Lots of chuckles and a few out-right laughs. Perfect summertime read.

What a dandy! It's enough, though, to make anyone think twice about getting married, I should think. For Carnegie Kincaid, owner of Made In Heaven Wedding Designs, the myriad details necessary for the perfect wedding are her bread and butter. Until someone steals a car and runs down an inebriated bridesmaid, that is. From that point on, it seems as though nothing wants to go right, and no one is who they appear to be. Her friend Nicolle Parry just wants to marry Ray Ishigura , the up-and-coming concert pianist. And, for a change, money is no object, Nickie's father being Douglas Parry, chairman of the board of King County Savings. So why do all these unsettling things keep happening? Well, for one thing, there is a battle between the former CEO of the bank, Keith Guthridge. Did he or didn't he twiddle the funds? Aaron Gold, a reporter who has a nose for gossip as well as news, seems to always pop up just when he shouldn't. It's fairly obvious he has his eye on Carnegie, but from her six-foot vantage point, his five-foot-eight or so is little more than a pest. Especially when the more than six-foot Holt Walker is on the scene, as well. In order to keep Parry from testifying at the upcoming trial, threats have been made, but when they don't seem to have the desired effect, Nickie is kidnapped. Carnegie finds herself smack in the middle of everything, mostly against her will, but she finds inner resources she didn't know she had. She hangs on by her fingernails and prevails against the bad guys to rescue Nickie and herself, and Aaron. This is not exactly your everyday cozy mystery, but I truly enjoyed it, hanging on every last word! I'm eagerly awaiting the next wedding in the series. For a first book, this one was unusually well done. Enjoy! Unless, of course, you're planning a wedding . . .

I can't wait for the next book. If you like a strong female sleuth then you'll love Carnegie Kincaid. She brings wit and humor and a keen eye for social detail to the mystery genre. In a wealthy client's driveway, Carnegie observes "a blood-and-silver Alfa Romeo that looked fast standing still. I had some nail polish that color once, but it kept me awake at night." This woman is strong and stylish with an enthralling way of viewing the world and a supporting cast of vivid characters.

If anyone out there is looking for a fun read, you've got to pick up Veiled Threats. The heroine,Carnegie Kincaid, is just plain fun to hang out with as she sleuths her way into trouble. With zany supporting characters and a lively plot, this is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold winter day (or a steamy summer night). I'm definitely adding this one to my keeper shelf.