Exes & Woes is the fourteenth book in Hope Callaghan’s awesome Made in Savannah Cozy Mystery series. The storyline flows smoothly at a steady pace in this clean and enjoyable read. There are no dull moments as Ms. Callaghan once again provides readers with a well-plotted and intriguing mystery with a great storyline, affable characters, and an intriguing mystery with twists and red herrings that kept me turning the pages and guessing until the final reveal. I highly recommend all the books written by this author to readers who enjoy well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Carlita Garlucci’s businesses, Savannah Swag Pawn Shop and Ravello’s, are both turning a profit, and all of her apartments are rented. Thanksgiving is approaching, and while she will miss two of her sons and their families, she’s looking forward to hosting Thanksgiving dinner for her Savanna, Georgia children and friends. When Luigi Baruzzo, a former mafia bodyguard, made the decision to retire from the “family,” Carlita decided to give him a chance. Luigi rented her vacant efficiency and is working part-time at the pawn shop and restaurant, but things are a little tame for his tastes. Carlita has been worried about her neighbor, Elvira Cobb. Elvira is Carlita’s troublesome ex-tenant, who lives and operates businesses with her sister, Dernice. Elvira fell into a deep state of depression and recently took off, cleaning out one of their business accounts, leaving Dernice struggling to handle things. Carlita agrees to help Dernice figure out what’s happening with her sister, which leads Carlita, Dernice, and Luigi on a wild ride, and Carlita becomes a suspect in the murder of a woman whose body is found inside a building Elvira owns.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.