While I found one Trash ‘n’ Treasures mystery amusing, I think the humor in these books would go a long way. I’m not really a fan of broad humor in mysteries. I prefer wit and dry humor. But, Brandy and Vivian Borne both use a lot of wordplay in their writings, humor that is not subtle by any means. The daughter and mother are narrators of what Vivian calls “nonfiction true crime accounts” of their adventures in the thirteen books in the series.Antiques Ravin’ is the latest one by Barbara Allan.
Trash ‘n’ Treasures, the antiques shop owned by the duo, is temporarily closed while the seventy-year-old Vivian serves as sheriff of Serenity County. Because her license has been revoked, her daughter, Brandy, serves as unpaid chauffeur, and honorary deputy. Their first investigation takes them to Antiqua, a small town that specializes in antique shops. They’ve been called there because the stores have been entered, but, as far as the town council can tell, nothing has been taken. Because it’s the biggest weekend for the town, the annual Edgar Allan Poe Festival, Vivian offers to hang around, making an appearance as Poe with a dramatic reading of “The Raven”.
It’s a good thing Vivian stuck around. Their dog, Sushi, follows her nose in a cemetery, and finds a body in a mausoleum. But, that body is someone Brandy talked to recently in town. When another victim is found, still alive, but walled up, Vivian realizes the crime scenes resemble several of Poe’s tales. Someone might just have taken the idea of a Poe festival a little too far.
As narrator, Brandy does a good job providing background to the story, and, at times, mentioning that now is a good time for readers to skip a section if they want. Vivian’s narration sometimes has to edited by the editor of their book. While dual narrators are often confusing, in this case, the voices are distinct enough that it works.
As I said, the humor was a little much for me, so I was part way through when I realized that the mystery itself, and the investigation of the case, was well thought out. That really should not come as a surprise. It’s no secret that the author, Barbara Allan, is actually Barbara Collins and her husband, award-winning author Max Allan Collins. Their characters certainly are original, and, as I said, the mystery is actually well done.
I won’t be picking up the fourteenth in the series, but I know this cozy series has a devoted following.
Barbara Allan’s website is www.BarbaraAllan.com
Antiques Ravin’ by Barbara Allan. Kensington, 2019. ISBN 9781496711403 (hardcover), 240p.
*****
FTC Full Disclosure – I received the book to review for a journal.
Frankly, Mom is "fingernails on the blackboard" to me. I read one short story and wouldn't even think of trying a novel, but clearly, they have a devoted following, so YMMV.
I'll stick to Max Allan Collins's solo series.
I agree with you, Lesa. I haven't read these books, but humor is tricky in a mystery. I think you nailed it when you said you prefer wit and dry humor to broad humor. Sometimes it's a fine line. I've never been able to enjoy Janet Evanovich's books for this reason. David Rosenfelt does it beautifully, although his are not cozies.
I quite enjoy this series. I've read every book and all the short stories.
I can see why it might not be for some people, but I'm a bit surprised the Hallmark Movie Channel hasn't come calling. Seems like these would be right down their alley.