I don't know if this is the start of a cozy series or it was intended for a middle grade audience, I know I liked this slow burning story the kept me reading.
It's a well written, cozy, and heartwarming story with some poignant moments.
There’re two sub plots: one involving the adult detective investigating the disappearance of two vases and one featuring the neighborhood kids investigating the disappearance of a dog.
I found the characters fleshed out and likeable. Jack is a relatable character, a big city detective who moved to a small town and he’s eager to solve the mystery. Charlie is a bit more jaded but an interesting character.
The plot is solid, no plot hole, and it kept me reading and entertained till the last page.
I liked the relationship amongst the kids, their friendship, and their loyalty.
The descriptions of the small town are well done and I was able to visualize the places and the characters.
This story can be appreciated by older children but some part should be explained by an adult as they could be a bit harsh for a child.
I think there’s a lot of potential and this could become a very interesting cozy series.
Recommended.
Many thanks to Robert Douglass and Partners In Crime for this digital copy, all opinions are mine