Wave and Die

Like a refreshing breath of fresh sea air, this second installment in the Jordan Lacy cozies is set in the British seaside town of Latchings. A delight from the first page, Jordan Lacy is a most unconventional former police woman turned private investigator/junk shop dealer/jazz connoisseur. As she pedals about Latchings, the dialogue and characterization are absolutely charming - as is Jordan's very active fantasy life. With a caseload that includes stolen water lilies, a missing wedding cake, as well as a errant husband, Jordan has her sights set on acquiring the Ladybird, a little red coupe with black spots. As she moves on to missing bankers, mistresses, murder and arson, Jordan finds herself a suspect. Taking plenty of time for a cup of tea or coffee here and there, Jordan eventually fits together the puzzle pieces - and surprises everyone. The end seemed very rushed and implausible, but did not diminish my delight in another Jordan Lacy book.