The Marriage at the Rue Morgue: A Rue and Lakeland Mystery

Though Powell’s debut mystery, which features primatologists Noel Rue and Lance Lakeland, initially resembles a cozy, it proves darker than the genre’s typical offerings. Noel and Lance, her fiancé, have worked for Arthur “Art” Hooper at his primate center in Ohio for years without any problems, until the day, on the eve of their wedding, that an orangutan gets loose. Soon after, Art, their intended best man, is discovered beaten to death. Many assume the ape is responsible, but Noel and Lance’s expertise leads them to think that the real culprit is human. While dark secrets about the preserve come to light, additional drama comes from Noel’s past relationship, prior to her engagement to Lance, with his brother, Alex, which turned abusive. This intriguing whodunit is an appealing read with amusing moments, but it may be too intense for some cozy readers. [em](July) [/em]