Ornaments of Death: A Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery

Fascinating tidbits about collectibles, along with evocative descriptions of New Hampshire in winter, elevate Cleland’s 10th Josie Prescott Antiques mystery (after 2014’s Blood Rubies). At Josie’s annual Christmas party in Rocky Point, N.H., she has the pleasure of meeting Englishman Ian Bennington, who has informed her that they’re distantly related through Arabella Churchill, a mistress of James II. Ian is en route to Boston to visit his grown daughter, to whom he has given two 17th-century miniature portraits—one of Arabella, the other of the king—which he would like Josie to appraise. When Ian disappears a few days later, Josie turns to Ellis Hunter, Rocky Point’s police chief, for help. Local reporter Wes Smith also assists in what becomes a twisted tale of stolen identities, jealousy, greed, and murder. Distinctive characters, including Josie’s Maine coon cat, Hank, help make this holiday cozy a winner. [em]Agent: Cristina Concepcion, Don Congdon Associates. (Dec.) [/em]