Reasons to Read “Hollywood Homicide”
When Hollywood Homicide came across my reading pile, I wasn’t quite sure what I’d think of it. It is set in Hollywood … was my first thought. Hollywood isn’t a word I’d ever use to describe me. I’m a Midwest girl through and through. Would I enjoy the book?
My worries were totally unfounded and this was one of my favorite reads of the summer. It is unique, refreshing, and just downright fun. Here are my top reasons you should check this one out.
Hollywood Homicide is the debut cozy mystery novel for author Kellye Garrett. It is the first book in the A Detective by Day Mystery Series. It follows Dayna Anderson, a “retired” actress who is broke and looking for a way to earn so cash to help her parents save their house. This book stretches the cozy mystery mold (in a good way) and is full of fun, suspense, and intrigue.
A Non-Traditional Murder
In the traditional cozy mystery, our protagonist just happens to stumble on a dead body at some point of the book. In Hollywood Homicide, broke and looking for cash, Dayna sees a billboard put out by the police. The billboard offers a $15,000 cash reward for any tips that lead to an arrest in the hit-and-run murder of Haley Joseph. Out of ways to make some money and ready to try just about anything, Day decides to ask some questions and see if she can get herself the reward money.
A Non-Traditional Sleuthing Team
Instead of teaming up with a friend or an easy on the eyes detective, Day forms a team with an unusual man also investigating the crime. Aubrey S. Adams-Parker. He is full of odd quirks and was a former police officer. I’m sure there is much more to Aubrey than we find out in this book. He was a hoot and added a fun element to Day’s detective work. Aubrey reminded me a bit of Duffy Madison – E.J. Copperman’s fictional crime fighter in the Mysterious Detective Mystery Series. Quirky, confusing, and lovable in a way we just can’t wait to find out more about the character in future books.
Traditional Cozy Mystery Humor and Charm
As a frequent reader of cozy mysteries, the non-traditional elements were great for holding my interest and keeping the book new and fresh. As a fan of the cozy mystery genre, there were enough traditional cozy elements that endeared me to the series. Day is a great protagonist. She is honest and lovable, but has her struggles. You root for her to succeed. The book is also jam packed with laugh out loud humor that make the pages fly by.
Do yourself a favor and pick this book up.
This was a surprise favorite for me this summer and will be for you too. It is fun, edgy, and full of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Mark your calendars for a party!
Author Kellye Garrett is hosting a Facebook Launch Party for the book and A Cozy Experience is super excited to be helping her with the event. Mark your calendars and join us on Kellye’s Facebook Page Wednesday, August 9th to chat with the author. There will be fun and giveaways!