On a warm, bright July afternoon the body of young newspaper reporter, Noah Pierce, is found on the beach at Chimney Bluffs, a site where, during Prohibition, rumrunners transported contraband liquor from Canada to Lighthouse Cove, NY and a mysterious boat fire on Lake Ontario killed one of Pierce’s ancestors. Initially the medical examiner rules the death as accidental, but a post-mortem reveals that Pierce’s demise may be the result of foul play. Criminal consultant Ed DeCleryk is hired to help investigate the crime, working closely with deputy police chief Brad Washington. But where do they begin? Was the victim’s death related to a recent assignment, his quest to learn what happened to the ancestor, or something more personal? Several days later after dining at their favorite restaurant Ed and his wife, Annie, head of the local historical society and museum, are shown an abandoned 1920’s-era speakeasy called Tony’s Place that was discovered in a hidden basement during restaurant renovations. While Ed follows clues to find the killer, Annie’s on a mission to learn who Tony was and what happened to him. Will the couple’s paths of inquiry intersect? Is there a common thread between the two that will lead to the killer? As with other books in this intriguing cozy mystery series, there are lots of twists and turns and a surprise ending. Annie likes to cook, at the end of the book she shares recipes she’s prepared for family and friends.
Murder at Chimney Bluffs: An Edmund DeCleryk Mystery is the perfect cozy mystery to read while snuggled up with a hot cup of tea as you immerse yourself in charming village life. The enchanting blend of history and a twisty mystery will leave you guessing: Whodunit? There is so much to love about the DeCleryk series, but my favourite, is his incredible brainy wife, Annie and their dog Gretchen. If you've never been to the Finger Lakes region of New York, this series, with its lovely descriptions of small town living, will prompt a visit!