In The Stanton Falls Mysteries, by Susan Reed-Flores, readers are treated to three captivating short stories: “Murder at the Museum,” “Murder at the Marina,” and “Murder at the Lakehouse.” Set in the picturesque town of Stanton Falls, Connecticut, these tales revolve around two dedicated local police detectives who find themselves at the heart of intriguing murder investigations. Each story is approximately 40 pages long, making them perfect for a quick and satisfying read.

In “Murder at the Museum,” Detective Dan Ross takes center stage as he investigates the murder of Jack Crawford, an employee at the town’s art museum. The list of suspects includes the museum board members and Crawford’s former lover and executive assistant, Charlotte Wayward. The second story, “Murder at the Marina,” shifts the focus to Detective Ross’ partner, Detective Anthony Scalari. Here, Scalari delves into the mysterious death of Joseph Camden, an Assistant VP at an insurance company. This installment also enriches the narrative with callbacks and further character development for Detective Ross and Charlotte. The third story, “Murder at the Lakehouse,” masterfully intertwines elements from the first two tales. Both detectives join forces to unravel the murder of an unidentified man near Detective Ross’ lake house, bringing together threads from their previous cases.

Susan Reed-Flores employs a formal writing style that, despite the grim subject matter, maintains a wholesome tone throughout the book. The detectives are portrayed not only as skilled professionals but also as individuals with supportive personal lives, adding depth to their characters. The seamless blending of the stories creates a cohesive and engaging reading experience. These stories are an excellent recommendation for fans of classic “whodunit” mysteries, those who prefer their crime stories on the lighter side, and anyone seeking a quick and enjoyable read.

The Stanton Falls Mysteries provides a delightful escape into a world of intrigue and well-drawn characters, leaving readers eager to see if personal conflicts might arise for Detectives Ross and Scalari in future installments.

Pages: 141 | ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0BC3RS4MW