Mystery & Mirth, by Patricia Fish, takes readers on a romp through the labyrinth of complexities of mystery. From the opening page until the epilogue, human nature is always at the core of a crime committed.
This collection of short stories is never the same crime twice. Which keeps readers guessing whodunit? while continuing to turn pages.
For example 'Salmonella Cake' looks at how a child's misinterpretation of what a neighbor said leads to the discovery of intentional poisioning. Along the way, the escapades of a rolling trash can nearly derail the detection process.
'The Mooses Massacre' looks at how family dynamics can often be even more tangled than one might think.
In every story, humor plays a role.
'Saving Mom from Uncle Guido' involves sticky situations; in one case, literally.
Fish does not hesitate to bring in influences from current world events.
'Sex, Lies, and Audiotape' brings to mind the personage of Linda Tripp when she secretly taped her 'friend' Monica Lewinsky when Monica was having an affair with William Jefferson Clinton.
No matter what readers want out of a good mystery story, there is something in this book for everyone.
Article comments
1 - DrPat
That's BC's own "patfish," isn't it?
Considering that short stories are harder to write well than novels, sounds like we sould congratulate her!
2 - Pat Fish
Oh thank you all so much.
I LOVE to write short stories.
Especially mysteries.
But somewhere, well you just gotta have a laugh.
3 - Patricia Harrington
Am delighted to see the short mystery story being reviewed, even though a collection by one author. It's difficult to carry off a mystery or murder in short story form -- particularly with humor. So good for author Patricia Fish and for Nancy for reviewing and commenting on the stories.
Pat Harrington
4 - Nancy
I found this easier to review, because I could focus on the ones which stood out in my mind once I finished the book. I'm glad you enjoyed it.