Essentials of Murder

Aromatherapy Apothecary Mystery, #1

by

Kim Davis

The story wastes no time getting to the murder, and from there, it's constant action.

Essentials of Murder is the first book in author Kim Davis's Aromatherapy Apothecary Mystery series, and the cozy craft-themed story features essential oils, reflexology, and a curvy, prodigal hometown daughter. With engaging characters and a small Southern California town that never met a rumor it didn't want to spread, I enjoyed the story from start to finish. 

Main character Carissa Carmichael grew up in Oak Creek Valley, but left for San Francisco the day after high school graduation, never looking back until trouble came knocking almost ten years later. The daughter of the local chief of police, she returned home after being used in an illegal kick-back scheme by her wealthy boyfriend, who is now serving time in prison for his misdeeds. Trained in the use of essential oils and reflexology, she's days from the grand opening of her Aromatherapy Apothecary Shop in the touristy downtown when she discovers the body of the next-door shop owner's obnoxious son in her back room and immediately becomes suspect number one in his death. 

The story wastes no time getting to the murder, and from there, it's constant action. The police detective in charge of the investigation has a hidden agenda and immediately latches onto Carissa as the main suspect. This fuels Carissa's need to solve the case and clear her name herself. The author deftly develops the small town of Oak Creek Valley from scratch as readers follow Carissa through her investigation, upsetting the status quo and angering many along the way. The suspects are many, as the victim was obnoxious, vindictive, and not well-liked. Even his mother had reasons to want him out of the picture. Clues are sprinkled throughout the narrative for clever armchair detectives to find, but I only developed a few strong suspicions myself. The story was entertaining, well-plotted, and fast-paced, and includes a touch of romance. 

I recommend ESSENTIALS OF MURDER to cozy mystery lovers looking for a delightful protagonist, an interesting essential oil theme, or an amazing rumor mill setting.

For this and more reviews, visit my blog, Boys' Mom Reads!