Shedding Light on Murder

Set on Cape Cod during a Christmas season full of blizzards, Driscoll’s entertaining debut introduces ex-probation officer Grace Tolliver, owner of Pearl’s Antique Lamps and Shades, in Barnstable Village. When Grace’s newest employee, Duane Kerbey, on parole from Pinewood halfway house, is arrested for the murder of unpopular socialite Danielle Whitney, Grace, out of loyalty to Duane, undertakes to track down the real killer. Intriguing suspects include Danielle’s embittered brother, Howard; an affronted realtor, Valerie Elkins; and Father Murrey, a retired priest who’s caught hunting for Danielle’s diary late at night. A target of anger in the village for hiring Duane, Grace finds much needed support from devoted shop assistants Michael Shipworth and Bella Benson as the suspense builds to a riveting final confrontation. Replete with authentic Cape settings and atmosphere, this cozy should have broad appeal. (Jan.)