This was a good first novel. The mystery was enjoyable set in Charlotte, NC. Savannah, who creates syndicated puzzles for newspapers (still not sure exactly what kind of math related puzzles she makes because I got the feeling they weren't Sudoku) and her husband Zach (a retired police chief) are called in to investigate a series of murders that has the killer taunting the police with puzzles. The story was a quick read, it was entertaining and the characters were likeable. Puzzle maker and math whiz Savannah Stone is happily living in the country with her husband, retired police chief, Zach, when an urgent call for help from the Charlotte police force brings them back to town. Their close friend and mayor of Charlotte, Grady Winslow, has been receiving death threats from a suspected murderer. But as Zach and Savannah investigate more into the case, they are no longer sure who from their old hometown they can really trust. I applaud Casey Mayes's creation of such a strong and intelligent female character, and the bond the character has (romanticaly and professionally) with her husband. But I felt there were too many parts in the story that were difficult to believe. Side stories that relate to Savannah's family and former close friends, as well as introspective moments attempt to flesh out and round the character, but at times seemed really too much off topic. I felt the story had a lot of potential (and was looking forward to solving some puzzles that were hinted at), but ultimately found "the final answers" to be rather predictable and or cheesy.
What do You think about A Deadly Row (2010)?
I really liked this. It was hard to put down. So I read it almost straight through.
—hepsi797
This is my favorite cozy mystery series.
—Mickey16
