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An utterly charming and mostly unexpected treat, best described as the love child of ‘The Durrells’, ‘Pride and Prejudice’, and an add-your-own-favorite cozy mystery.

Set on the idyllic island of Corfu in the year 1898, the story is told by Minnie Harper, a smart and restrained thirty-three year old recent widow with two children: the wannabe bug-lover and avid naturalist, Tommy, aged eight; and fourteen year old Chloe, a teen who manages to be both sharp and sweet, around the edges.

The island is buzzing when the handsome writer Stephen Dorian comes to town, leaving Minnie however, somewhat less than impressed when she runs headlong into what appears to be both Darcy-ish arrogance and icy aloofness. That first impression may or may not be about to change, however, as Minnie finds herself temporarily in Mr Dorian’s employ, engaged as the typist on his latest and newly evolving murder mystery.

Without giving the plot away, (no spoilers here), trouble is afoot when a body is discovered nearby in gruesome circumstances. With a less than helpful local police force, as Minnie and Stephen find themselves drawn into the role of amateur crime solvers, it remains to be seen how the clues will stack up. And who, amongst the colorful medley of local Greek and English residents, now falling into the suspect category, will actually prove to be a villainous murderer.

Highly recommended, this read would be a welcome addition to any beach, vacation, or cozy afternoon sit-down. A terrific mystery with an equally terrific cast of characters, the setting in both time and place is yet another well-crafted addition to the overall success of this story. With an ending that pleases, and also teases, suffice it to say, this is one reader who is thrilled to discover this as the start of a new series.