Week 7: Annotation

Author:  Carol J. Perry

Title:  Caught Dead Handed

Genre:  Mystery

Publication Date:  October 2014

Pages:  393

Geographical Setting: Salem, Massachusetts

Time Period: 2014

Series: Witch City Mystery (Book 1)

Plot Summary: Maralee Barrett (Lee), recent widow to famous NASCAR driver, Jimmy Barrett, returns to her hometown of Salem, Massachusetts for an interview with WICH-TV the local news channel.  However, before she is even interviewed, another was given the job. 

A sad turn of events, the demise of the popular psychic Ariel Constellation, results in Lee getting her slot as a psychic.  But, she isn’t really psychic . . . or is she. She hopes that taking the job might help to move into another position if it comes open. 

Lee notices little things that help detective Pete Mondello investigate the murders of Ariel Constellation and Yvette Pelletier.  However, as she digs deeper and deeper she becomes more confused and more fearful.

Meanwhile, she is developing feelings for two men:  Mondello and the man who was given the job she wanted, Scott Palmer. 

It’s all about real versus fake.  What and who is real?  What and who is fake? 

What makes it a Mystery?

* Murder

* Dead Bodies

* Investigation

Appeal:

Pacing--Comfortable and Cozy

Frame/Tone--Contemporary and mystical

Character--The protagonist is introspective and observant.

Similar Authors and why . . .

Bridesmaids Revisted
by Dorothy Cannell
~Cozy mystery w/
amateur female detective

A Stitch in Time
By Monica Ferris
~Cozy mystery w/
amateur female detective

The Whole Enchilada
by Diane Mott Davidson
~Cozy mystery w/
amateur female detective

It Takes a Witch
by Heather Blake
~Cozy mystery w/
mystical
amateur female detective
~Salem