Murder at the Beauty Pageant by Helena Dixon ~ a Review

by Donna Huber

Matt and Kitty are settling into married life. Though Kitty is finding herself a little out of sorts now that she isn't trying to manage the family hotel, particularly since the private investigation business is a bit slow at the moment. That is how she finds herself helping with the town's charity event with Mrs. Craven. But soon, Kitty may be wishing she had enjoyed the quiet life a bit more.

Amazon affiliate links are used on this site. A free book was provided for an honest review.

May 2023; Bookouture; 978-1837900688
audio, ebook, print (256 pages); cozy mystery

Murder at the Beauty Pageant is Helena Dixon's twelfth novel in the Miss Underhay Mystery series. New readers may be wondering what the series is called Miss Underhay as Kitty is now Mrs. Bryant, otherwise, you can easily start the series with this book.

While Matt has always treated Kitty as an equal, it was nice seeing them work their first case together as full partners. 

Fans of the series may be worried that they won't be seeing some of the regular cast now that Kitty has moved out of the hotel. I know I wondered about Kitty and Alice's friendship since Alice often chatted with Kitty in the mornings over a cup of tea. While the early morning chats have ceased, it was nice seeing them together in a setting that wasn't so much employer/employee. 

We didn't have as much of Mrs. Craven as we have in the last few books, but that is okay. A little of her can go a long way!

There's also a new inspector as Greville has been promoted. Unfortunately, he isn't as welcoming to the assistance of a couple of "amateurs" particularly when one is a woman. I look forward to seeing how their interactions play out in future novels.

The mystery was very compelling as there are quite a few twists and turns given that secrets and scandal abound.

If you are looking for something fun and light to read, then definitely pick up this cozy mystery.

Buy Murder at the Beauty Pageant at Amazon

Donna Huber is an avid reader and natural encourager. She is the founder of Girl Who Reads and the author of how-to marketing book Secrets to a Successful Blog Tour.

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