If I hadn't been reading this for a review, I don't think I would have stuck with it. The story starts off choppy and uneven while Walker tries to juggle backstory, character introductions and humour.

It takes about 5 chapters for this book to really make you sit up and take notice. By the time it does, though, it hooks you deep and good. The conspiracies, the plot twists and the stakes build to a satisfying (and surprising!) conclusion.

This really is a hard-boiled thriller in the loose wrappings of a cozy mystery. If you lost Nichelle's shoe obsession, it wouldn't be cozy at all. The 'cozy'-ness feels awkward and put on. I think this series would be a lot more successful if Walker dropped the cutesy cozy conventions and stuck to her strength - which is telling a damn fine thriller.

[Review copy generously provided by Henery Press]