15 Jun Book Review of A Field Guide to Homicide (Cat Latimer Mystery #6)
A Cozy Retreat with a Twist: A Review of A Field Guide to Homicide by Lynn Cahoon
There’s something both comforting and intriguing about diving into a cozy mystery, especially when it involves a writer’s retreat—a perfect setting for secrets to unfold and unexpected twists to emerge. Lynn Cahoon’s A Field Guide to Homicide, the sixth installment in the Cat Latimer Mystery series, caught my attention not only for its cozy vibes but also for its promise of a layered mystery amidst group dynamics and hidden pasts.
In this book, we find ourselves in a picturesque Colorado town where Cat, her business partner Shauna, and her boyfriend Seth host a writer’s retreat at their charming bed and breakfast. The tranquility quickly dissolves when Cat snaps a photo of a couple hiking, only to discover a leg protruding from a huckleberry bush in the background—this gruesome discovery leads to the unfortunate realization that the leg belongs to Chance, an Army buddy of Seth’s, who was presumed dead years ago in Germany. This shocking turn sets off a whirlwind of inquiries, especially as Chance had been living off the grid, with a lucrative secret beneath his assumed name.
Cat’s uncle Pete steps in to lead the investigation, supported by his girlfriend Shirley, a former law enforcement officer visiting from Alaska. The entanglements deepen as Seth’s Army friends arrive for a reunion, making for a busy and suspenseful atmosphere. I was particularly intrigued by the thread of camaraderie interwoven with the desperate search for truth, showcasing how intertwined lives can complicate even the simplest questions. However, I found myself yearning for more depth in the crime scene details, a characteristic often enjoyed in traditional mysteries but somewhat lacking here.
Cahoon’s writing style carries a lighthearted charm, effectively drawing readers into Cat’s reflections and interactions. Yet, at times, the narrative feels a bit slow, with lengthy conversations overshadowing the mystery itself. For instance, while I appreciated the insights into writing and publishing, these moments seemed incidental rather than organically woven into the plot. The writer’s retreat aspect, while offering a slice of life, felt somewhat tacked on, merely serving as a backdrop rather than a pivotal element driving the narrative forward.
Additionally, I was struck by the copious amount of food described throughout the book. The constant mention of meals—breakfasts, dinners, and culinary dreams—creates a warm atmosphere but risks overshadowing the core mystery. It almost reads like a culinary diary at times, which might delight food enthusiasts but left me wishing for more focus on the investigation at hand.
The resolution, while tidy and conclusive, felt abrupt to me, with the identity of the killer coming as a surprise that almost defied earlier clues. I appreciate a good twist, but this one struck me as a bit convenient, leaving me wanting a deeper payoff for the buildup.
Despite a few narrative hiccups, A Field Guide to Homicide remains an engaging read for those who enjoy cozy mysteries and character-driven tales. If you’re drawn to small-town charm, quirky characters, and the idea of a murder unraveling amidst writerly pursuits, this book is for you.
Personally, while it might not have reignited my passion for cozies, it certainly provided an enjoyable escape into a familiar literary world. I’m giving it a solid 3.5 out of 5 stars, appreciating its cozy essence while recognizing the areas where it could have shone even brighter.
Discover more about A Field Guide to Homicide (Cat Latimer Mystery #6) on GoodReads >>
