A Decadent Way to Die: A Savannah Reid Mystery

A killer targets 80-year-old Helene Strauss, the wealthy creator of the popular Helene doll, in McKevett's superb 16th cozy featuring San Carmelita, Calif., PI Savannah Reid (after 2010's Wicked Craving). Those who might want Helene dead include her nasty niece, druggie great-nephew, and death metal–loving great-niece as well as Helene's gardener and her housekeeper. Savannah delves into each suspect's secrets, assisted by her one employee, Tammy Hart, and her former police partner, Det. Sgt. Dirk Coulter, while her professional bodyguard buddies, John Gibson and Ryan Stone, glue themselves to Helene. These precautions, however, aren't enough to prevent a double homicide. Meanwhile, Savannah suffers repercussions from her interference with Tammy's abusive boyfriend. In addition to a delightfully surprising happy ending, McKevett supplies an author's note about domestic abuse with a list of helpful resources and contact information for those who may be victims of such abuse. (Feb.)