Picture Imperfect

The Leafy Hollow Mysteries #7

by Rickie Blair

A priceless work of art. A double murder. Can a feisty landscaper save more victims from sketchy deaths? Amateur sleuth Verity Hawkes has solved a whole bouquet of cases. But with an unanswered marriage proposal and her own PI agency hanging in the air, her confidence is dying on the vine. Still, when the local ladies' man is accused of a double murder, she immediately starts digging for answers.

After finding the suspect recently inherited a priceless masterpiece, she's convinced the Casanova is innocent. Following a trail of clues into the world of rare art, Verity uncovers dodgy dealers, surprising DNA results, and an alarming number of ingenious booby traps.

If she doesn't connect the dots soon, she may run out of time to paint the real killer into a corner...

Picture Imperfect is the seventh installment in a series of charmingly funny cozy mysteries. If you like memorable characters, zany action, and laugh-out-loud hijinks, then you'll love Rickie Blair’s twisty whodunit.

Buy Picture Imperfect to draw out a murderer today!

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery

316 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 29, 2019

About the author

When not hunched over my computer conversing with people who exist only in my head, I spend my time trying to tame an unruly half-acre garden and a mischievous Jack Russell-cross. I also share my southern Ontario home with two rescue cats and an overactive Netflix account.

I write The Ruby Danger series of financial thrillers, and a cozy mystery series, The Leafy Hollow Mysteries. The Ruby books reflect my interest in fraud and how it ruins lives, while the Leafy Hollow volumes are more light-hearted. I hope you enjoy them.

Rickie

Reviews

[Jen - Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

As always, I thoroughly enjoyed this book in the Leafy Hollow Mysteries series.

This time, Verity takes it upon herself to help a friend, Ryker, who is suspected of murder. But there are two many variables and way too many other suspects that she can see. So, in usual Verity fashion, she sets out to find the truth.

Loved it, as always!

[Sarah Booth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a fun series. The characters are interesting and the town quaint. The addition of a cat (and a dog too) that does its share to protect its owner endears me as well. I hate to admit my love of cozy mysteries, particularly ones with cats. They are my go to reading when I am tired, anxious or just in need of a mental rest. This is a good series for exactly that. The author hasn't posted anything on an 8th book but hopefully there will be one before long.
If you've read or want to read this book, you've most likely read the other books in the series and like them. This one leaves a few unanswered questions as to what happens with Damien and who these foster brothers were who were also jokesters but perhaps that will be for future books. Who knows. These books are like binge watching tv for me, but with a bit more substance to it.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoy the Leafy Hollow Mysteries series. This was a fast paced and very entertaining read. Small town, quirky characters that are relatable and always finding humor in the story.
A roller coaster of a ride as Verity tries to figure out the clues to the murder.

I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it. Opinions are my.

[Sandee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a good book! And a wonderful mystery with just enough clues and misdirection. Rickie writes characters with dimension, emotion and humour. This is the seventh book in the series and the best so far. This one includes famous art, duplicity and the long con. A great cozy mystery series!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a 4.25 🌟 read rounded ⬇️ to 4 🌟.

[Niken Widyastuti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another winner from Rickie Blair. I always loved her Leafy Hollow Mysteries series, but I think this one was my favorite so far.

He might be Verity’s competitor, yet she still step up to prove his innocent when he being accused of murder. Well, not really intentionally step up, yet the effect still the same. Some misleading clues, twists and turns here and there, created an interesting story that kept my interest from beginning to the end.

I was provided a complimentary copy by the author / publisher, but this in no way influenced my thoughts or opinions.

[Kelly Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rickie Blair once again weaves an intricate mystery, this time centred around the world of fine art. Her characters are relatable and real, and her story is fast paced and fun to read. The mystery itself keeps you guessing to the end. It's always fun to read something set in Canada, and even better, in Ontario. There's nothing quite like recognizing things that you see in your daily life. Blair is an excellent writer, and this book advances her intriguing series another few enticing steps.

[Jackie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely wonderful as always. Verity is such an outstanding character that makes the story come alive.

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. This is another great instalment to what is an excellent series. This is book seven and the series shows no signs of losing it's charm and humour and in fact I think its getting better with each book, they are stand alone books but if you enjoyed this one then why not start at the beginning and work your way through them, your ears will thank you. The characters are fun and often find themselves in interesting situations, that could get you some strange looks if you laugh to loud. The mystery was interesting and kept me guessing and with so much going on it certainly keeps you booked until the end. The mystery was concluded and it didn't leave on a cliff hanger but it has set it up for the next book, so be prepared to want more. I can't wait.
Verity is surprised when she suddenly gets an influx of new customers wanting her gardening service. It seems the only other gardener in the village is sending his clients her way. Worried what this could mean for her friend she investigates, only to discover it is a little bit more complicated of a broken lawnmower. He has recently come into a inheritance, found a step sister he didn't know he had and is under suspicion of murdering his girlfriend. He might be a ladies man but Verity is certain he is no killer. Can she prove it? The answers seems to lie with the inheritance and Verity must learn as much as she can about the art world, in particular one famous artists. Can she solve the case and keep the lawns in Leafy Hollow looking nice?
I like the narrator and have enjoyed her narration throughout the whole series, for me she is the voice for Verity Hawkes and her friends.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picture Imperfect by Rickie Blair is the seventh installment in The Leafy Hollow Mystery series but can be read as a standalone.

I have been following Verity's adventures from book one and it really gets better and better with each new book, although I have to say I really liked higher dose of humor in previous books, simply because I really appreciate humor with my cozies.

This time Verity's business is taking off, especially as a fellow gardener's clients keep calling her to take over from him. Puzzled Verity tries to talk to him, only to be told by his step sister, who, no one new even existed until now, that he is unavailable.
Not one to leave things alone, along with her sleuthing buddies, she keeps asking questions and probing further in order to help her friend.
Situation turns out to be more complicated than anyone thought it would be, involving burglary, stolen painting and real estate shady deals with many twists and turns sure to keep readers engaged.

This is a cleverly presented mystery, it is steady paced and easy to read.
I like that Verity's relationship with Jeff, her boyfriend and her father is progressing and evolving. Supporting characters equally well presented.
Together with the main protagonist they all paint a full picture of a little sleepy town where murder and mayhem always lurk.

As always it was a real treat to spend time with some of my favorite characters as each book bring another great adventure and pleasure to read.

I received an arc copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, Rickie Blair has taken us on a roller-coaster ride through a murder investigation that could get her killed if she doesn't find the killer first. When her womanizing competitor in her landscaping business Ryker is charged with murder, Verity Hawkes knows that he is innocent. We are fed with miscues, red-herrings and some humor while Verity tries to unravel the clues to find the murderer. What has a DNA test have to do with the murder or the strange woman who seems to be living in Ryker's house figure into the case? But could he really be guilty? After he received an inheritance from his uncle-a very expensive painting, could that be his motive to murder him? Will being PI harm her relationship with her detective boyfriend who only wants to marry her and keep her safe? Why did Control show up again? What does helping her Aunt who retired from the clandestine Control have to do with anything? There are so many questions and with her friends Lorne and Emy helping her we are treated to a good murder mystery with a lot of laughs! I love thisd series and am left with questions about Aunt Adeline and Verity and why has Control showed up again? Can't wait for the next book and the followup to my questions. I received and ARC from the author but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Verity Hawkes is the main character in this series. She runs a landscaping business and does a little private investigative work on the side. There are many characters from previous books that are in this book as well. Fun to see them all again!! Including the furry ones! I am always entertained by her cat!

Verity's good friend Emy and her boyfriend Lorne love doing stakeouts. There are funny parts throughout the book, but my favorite was their stakeout with Verity! I sincerely laughed out loud!!

I liked how the plot was very different from previous books with an expensive painting at the center and part of an inheritance. Verity's competitor in the landscaping business is giving his customers to her! He is hiding out in his house with a strange woman who claims to be related to him. Are her motives pure? Verity has to figure out what is going on. How is this painting the center of everything that is going on including 2 murdered women that happen at the same time. I liked that there were mysteries within mysteries to hold my interest!!

As always a well written cozy genre mystery book by author Rickie Blair that is engaging and entertaining as well!!

I received an advanced reader's copy and the review I am providing is my own.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Handsome, flirty, friendly Ryker suddenly sends all his clients to Verity because he is too depressed to work? Now that is a first and Verity can hardly believe her ears. But when the rumour that Ryker's girlfriend has been found murdered and he is too racked with guilt to face the world starts circling, Verity become even more worried as she knows Ryker well enough to know that he cannot be the murderer. And then there is the long lost half sister who discovered Ryker, just when he inherited a valuable painting.... something is afoot!

Another winner from Rickie Blair, this time more about Verity than her aunt and Adelaide's nefarious (?) mysterious, at least goings on. I always enjoy a visit to Leafy Hollow. Rickie Blair writes an exciting novel, with plenty to keep the brain spinning and confused, only to show how simple the puzzle was at the end! I received an ARC and this is my honest opinion.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Set in Southern Ontario, Canada. The addition of humor (chapter 19) has made book 7 in the Leafy Hollow Mystery series a breath of fresh air.

Verity's 'not now' to Jeff's marriage proposal has everyone in shock, especially Jeff. Can her childhood issues be resolved or will she lose the man she loves?

Coming Up Roses is being flooded with new customers from Field's Landscaping since Ryder Field has been questioned in the death of 2 women in Strathcona. Verity refuses to believe he has done anything wrong.

A plot involving DNA testing results in a plot twist that looks at the darker side of such sites and information.

Aunt Adeline is called back to work by Control.

IMO the best of the series so far.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Verity suddenly found herself with more clients than she could handle. She realized that many of those were clients of her competition, Ryker Fields.

A sudden inheritance, dubious claimant heirs, and a flurry of mysteries surrounding new neighbors and other valuables puts Verity back in the thick of another crazy, complicated and dangerous situation.

Her hilarious collection of skills, wacky pals and critters, lethal auntie and beloved Jeff round out a crazy cast that keep us wondering what might happen next, and how crazy - and did I mention hilarious ?- the action is likely to be.

Rip roaring fun, despite dastardly cheats and odd lethal interludes.

[Georganne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Verity is determined to help her friend, Ryker Fields. Ryker is referring all of his clients to Verity without explanation and she has discovered that Ryker has fallen into a deep depression after losing his girlfriend. But, there’s even more trouble, murder. He hasn’t been charged, but is a suspect. Then there’s the discovery of a half-sister. All of this surrounds the death of Perry Otis, a long time resident of Leafy Hollow, and his will. Perry has left a famous and very expensive piece of art to his heirs, which includes Ryker. Find out how Verity and friends discover the gruesome truth. Verity’s adventures are always fun and suspenseful. Can’t wait for the next one.

[Lynda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Not only is Verity's landscaping business doing well, her competition is sending his clients to her. Of course Verity needs to find out why, and is shocked that he's depressed and has a new half sister and a murder suspect. Things just keep getting stranger when a client asks to stake out her house to find out who is vandalizing it. Verity is better at then solving mysteries, is finding trouble. As always the newest addition to the series is very enjoyable. The characters are unique adding to the suspense filled plot in this action filled, humourous tale. I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request, and have voluntarily left this review.

[David Berg · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review. Blair has done it again. As usual I loved this book and could not put it down. A business rival is accused of murder but Verity just can't believe he did it. She doesn't intentionally set out to prove his didn't do it, but with many twists and turns to the story she ends up proving he is innocent. Can't wait till the next one to see what transpires between Verity and Jeff and what Verity and Aunt Adeline are up to. I truly recommend this book.

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read all of the books in this series by Rickie Blair, and enjoyed each quirky one. I don’t think it is completely necessary to read them all in order, but I am sure that going in order does lead to better understanding and attachment to the characters. In Picture Imperfect gardener Verity Hawkes gets involved in solving a mystery surrounding a murder and an inherited valuable artwork while trying to decide whether to marry boyfriend Jeff. Blair keeps you guessing with twists, turns and booby traps. A fun quick Read. I was given an ARC to read, the review is strictly my opinion

[Mary · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m always excited to return to Leafy Hollow and to see what trouble Verity is getting into. This series does a great job of dropping clues/hints and making you think you know what’s going on only to get to the end and have another twist thrown your way. Although I’ve always pulled for the Verity/Ryker love story I was actually happy with how Verity's love life progressed in this book. My only problem with this book/series is I’m always hungry while reading about Emy’s pastries ;) I absolutely love this series and can’t wait for book 8.

[Elizabeth · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this one. It had all the things that I enjoy most about this series, especially Verity's adventures with her friends. One thing that I sometimes find irritating with cozy mysteries is when the main character feels the need to apologize for or minimize their actions with their boyfriends, etc. I like that Verity doesn't seem to work that way. The mystery was pretty good and everything came together nicely in the end.

All in all, one of my favorite books in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Anne G. Kasaba · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyable cozy with as many laughs as there are clues.

Verity Hawes is in a tizzy from all angles. She is trying to help a friend get clear of a possible murder charge. Her live-in boyfriend wants to get married. Her dad is caught up in something that could be dangerous. Her aunt wants her to help with a new mysterious case from the agency. How does she untangle this mess?

I received an arc of this book and voluntarily am providing a review.

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was not your normal who dunnit! Verity is determined to prove her friend and competitor is innocent. Lots of twists and turns and OMG moments in this one! This book is the perfect addition to the series. The author's imagination is humorous and a little bit crazy on this one, but it was a great combo. And then the kicker at the end made me throw up my arms and say "NOOOOOOOOOOO"!

I will definitely recommend this book to anyone! So glad I got to read it before everyone else!

[Kathleen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Picture Imperfect is the seventh installment in the Leafy Hollow series set in Canada. There were some creepy parts that I was happy were revealed not to be true at the end.

Ryker is the sole inheritor for a local whom passes away. People are crawling out of the woodwork to claim they are his siblings. It gets complicated. Verity & Ryker almost expire but in the end the culprits are caught.

I love this series.

[Suzan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 7 in this fun different cozy mystery series. I have read all this series and enjoyed them. They are a lite clean mystery that takes you on a wild ride. I have come to love the different set of characters and watching them come into their own through these 7 books. If you have not read one yet do you will not be sorry you did. Thank you Rickie Blair for another entertaining book.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the seventh book in the Leafy Hollow series. When Verity’s friend Ryker is accused of murder she’s on the case! When a woman claiming to be Ryker’s sister comes to town and he’s suddenly so depressed he gives Verity all his customers Verity becomes very worried about him. There are plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing until the end! I love this series! The characters wonderful as we learn more about them in each book. There is a surprise ending that all fans of this series and this author will absolutely love! I highly recommend this book and this series!

[Annette Sullivan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved the highs and lows of solving this murder, it is quite exceptional. Of course the quirky characters, some new, some well known and the small town setting add to the enjoyable experience of reading one of rickies books. This story Has humour, fear, and grit and determination, trickiness, cleverness, good smarts, melancholy and romance ah...so good. Totally clean fun with murder.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good romp with Verity and the gang. I adore this quirky group of Canadians. The mystery is always good and there is always lots of fun to had watching these amateur sleuths. I like the developing relationships between Verity and Jeff and her father.
I received a free copy of this book and voluntarily chose to review it.

[Mary Lynn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This 7th book in the series has Verity inundated with calls from customers of a fellow landscaper, asking her to take over their lawn care. Since this person is a friend, naturally Verity needs to figure out what's going on. Our favorite characters are back and of course they get into trouble along the way. Fun, quick read.

[Holly Lenz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Picture Imperfect is a fun cozy mystery in the Leafy Hollow Series in which Verity tries to clear a friend from a murder charge.

The audiobook narrator does a great job bringing the series to life with her lively reading.

I received a complimentary copy of this audiobook. This is my honest and voluntary review.