Murder Ink (Victoria Square Mystery)

Murder Ink by Lorraine Bartlett with Gayle Leeson the 6th A Victoria Square Mystery. I had not read the previous books in A Victoria Square Mystery, and I felt I was missing some needed background information. I believe this series is best if read in order. Katie Bonner is strong, female entrepreneur. She has Artisans Alley and now Tealicious plus she is the head of the Victoria Square Merchants Association. I liked seeing Katie make a move for independence in one important aspect of her life (I do not want to spoil it for you). Katie is dating Andy Rust who owns Angelo's Pizzeria, but there are a few obstacles in the way of their happily ever after. A big one is Andy's assistant manager, Erikka who wants Andy for herself. Ray is attracted to Katie, but his daughters are openly hostile towards Katie. Then there is the new chef at Tealicious who creates delectable items for the tearoom guests, is very kind, and looks like a movie star. Katie has several romance possibilities if she is open to them. I find the characters developed and realistic. The death of Ken Fenton sends Katie on a merry chase. When Detective Schuler focuses on Ray Davenport as the killer, Katie dons her investigator cap once again so she can find the true culprit. The first order of business is learning more about Ken Fenton and his brother, Paul. Katie is curious as to why Paul picked McKinlay Mill for his tattoo parlor. There are a limited number of suspects in this whodunit. The more Katie learns, the shorter the list becomes. She also finds herself in harm's way which adds suspense and excitement to the story. I believe that the mystery touches on a subject that is topical and realistic. I would have enjoyed a mystery that was slightly more challenging to solve. But I did find it intriguing and there were interesting elements. If people would only take their intelligence and creativity and use it for good instead of evil the world would be a different place. I liked the authors writing style which made for a pleasing to read cozy mystery. There is a lovely cozy feel to the story as Katie spends time with friends, boyfriend, working, investigating, reading, eating, baking and spending time with her cats. Fans of A Victoria Square Mystery series as well as newcomers will be happy with Murder Ink. Murder Ink is an engaging cozy mystery with a person with a predilection for peppermint, a terrifying tattoo artist, charming cats, a determined detective and romantic rivals.