REVIEW: Banana Coconut Murder

Banana Coconut Murder
Author: Susan Gillard

Ballerinas....the epitome of female grace and beauty. But Isabella Hunt isn't graceful anymore. She's dead. Struck on the head and pushed down a flight of stairs, the ballerina will no longer be the lead dancer in the current production planned by the Hillside ballet school. Heather Shepherd is once again on the case, assisting her husband, Ryan, a detective with the local police department. Who offed the prima ballerina?

Banana Coconut Murder is the 21st novella length story in the Donut Hole cozy mystery series. The books have a doughnut shop theme, with each cover featuring a new doughnut offered in Heather's shop, Donut Delights. These books are quick, simple stories...and definitely cozy. No cussing, no graphic violence, sex or gore. Perfect for reading on vacation, while waiting for appointments or whenever an entertaining but short book is needed. I like the characters and the doughnut shop background theme.

Banana Coconut Murder is an enjoyable read. The mystery proceeds at a good pace, the plot is interesting and the ending made sense. I pretty much had the ending figured out, but the Why behind it was a surprise. There are some nice developments for Heather and Ryan in this book. Made me smile! :)

There are 60 books in the Donut Hole mystery series. But don't freak out -- the books are short, fast reads. A cozy lover could work their way through the entire series with ease. There is also a spin-off series, The Oceanside series, that has almost 30 books. Susan Gillard churns these books out fast. Someday I will catch up with her! :)

On to the next book!