Series debut
The prolific Leslie Meier has long enamored readers with her Lucy Stone Mystery series (31 books and counting) and she’s now branching off with a new series. The new series follows Carole Capobianco in Rhode Island, where she and her husband Frank are starting to move up in the world. Frank invented a revolutionary new device, the Bye-Bye Toilet, which has made the Capobianco family millionaires practically overnight. As their two children have moved out for careers and school, the pair of empty nesters are looking to move into more upscale and plush living accommodations. This is saying something, as their current apartment is quite upscale.
Unfortunately, the property that Frank has his heart set on is barred from them by a down-vote from venture capitalist Hosea Brown. Any new resident into the posh home must be a unanimous vote, and being told they aren’t the right sort for their community infuriates Frank, who can’t help but let his rage out in some threatening comments within earshot of all involved. Thinking that was the end of it, Carole and Frank go on with their lives until three months later, when Hosea Brown is found bludgeoned to death. Given that Frank had threatened to kill him, and that it turns out Mr. Brown was a backer of a construction project of Frank’s, it doesn’t take long for the police to shine the suspect light on him.
Flustered and overwhelmed, Carole does her best to try and find ways to prove her husband’s innocence, along with the help of her Brittany, Poopsie, and the rest of her family. Frank is sure that it’s a conspiracy against him due to his being so successful so suddenly, but Carole isn’t so sure. Together they have to come up with some creative ways to allow her to investigate while everyone involved knows her and her husband quite well. However, neither of them are ready for how dangerous things will become.
A Matter of Pedigree is Leslie Meier’s introduction to Carole and Poopsie’s world. Readers get to know Carole’s family, her personality, and how she and her dog interact. While not always harmonious, the two clearly love one another. Leslie Meier’s writing style is very easy to follow and she sets the scene and develops characters quickly for readers. Carole is a good example of an amateur sleuth who is completely out of her depth. She has never attempted anything even remotely like investigating, and all she really knows starting off is that she wants to help her husband. I recommend A Matter of Pedigree for readers that have enjoyed the Lucy Stone mysteries and are looking to enjoy a new Leslie Meier adventure. I also recommend this book to readers who enjoy an amateur sleuth that truly is a fish out of water, trying her best with good intentions, and often finding herself at a loss of what to do next. However, being out of her element doesn’t stop her and readers will enjoy Carole’s steadfast determination and dedication to her family. – Carla Schantz