A Cryptic Clue is the first in the new Hunter and Clewe cozy mystery series. The author also writes the excellent Blue Ridge Library series, so I was anxious to read her latest book.
The book stars 60-year-old Jane Hunter, a recently laid off librarian, who has found a conservation position within the mansion of young, fabulously rich, but agoraphobic, Cameron Clewe. However, on her second day, Jane discovers the body of Cam’s ex-girlfriend, Ashley, dead on the library floor. Cam is afraid that the police will see only him as a suspect. So, he asks Jane to do some snooping on his behalf to try and find some other suspects. Jane does so with the help of her retired journalist landlord.
I really enjoyed A Cryptic Clue. It was nice to see an older female amateur detective. I also loved the possibly haunted, and definitely creepy, house atmosphere and the backdrop of classic golden age mysteries. Overall, a nice way to spend an afternoon. I’m looking forward to more entries in this series. 4 stars!
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for a digital review copy of the book.