Book Review: Death of a Domestic Diva

Reviewed By: Carol - SLC - RAM

Death of a Domestic Diva     Amazon US PB Amazon Canada PB
Sharon Short
Class/Genre:   Mystery   Woman Main Character   Amateur Sleuth
Series: Stain-Busting Mystery Series # 1
Avon Books, August 2003, 261 pages, $6.50

Josie Toadfern, laundromat owner and self-professed stain expert, becomes a catalyst for murder when she tries to get the tiny town of Paradise, Ohio back on the official state map by bringing decorating diva and domestic mogul, Tyra Grimes, to town to film a segment of the wildly popular Tyra Grimes Home Show. The whole town gets caught up in the insincere posturing of show biz, and neighbor is pitted against neighbor when a few of them act as harbingers of gloom and are adamantly opposed to Tyra Grimes' visit.

Sharon Short has created a delightful series that packs more punch than most cozies. She deals with autism in a very informed and socially responsible manner, and the interaction between Josie and Guy is special and rings true. Also, emotions run deep in this usually quiet little hamlet, and Ms. Short does an excellent job developing her characters. Josie Toadfern is a very likable and spunky young woman who inherits a laundromat and prides herself on being the foremost stain expert in the region, perhaps the whole state. Having grown up in a very small town myself, I can attest that her supporting cast of characters is believable if not always likable.

If you enjoy reading cozies but would love to read some with a bit more substance, try the Josie Toadfern series by Sharon Short. You'll be glad you did!

Carol - SLC - RAM

Reprinted with permission. Do Not repost without permission from the author, Carol - SLC - RAM