Murder in the Lookout Lounge: Olivia Ocean Cruise Ship Mysteries

Photographer Olivia Ocean is assigned to follow the Lark Family on their family reunion cruise. She quickly learns this is not a happy occasion for most of the family as they have been estranged for years. Siblings Philomena, Grayson, and Lena along with Phil’s husband Troy and daughters Emma & Judy and Grayson’s children Jeremy and Ramona seem to want little to do with each other. Getting good family photographs will take all of Olivia’s skills with both camera and editing. When Philomena dies during a family activity, Olivia is unsure if her services are still required. However, when it turns out that the death was not from natural causes, Olivia agains teams up with security officer Miles to track down clues. With her precocious kitten Pickle at her side, Olivia is determined to get to the truth. Will they catch a wily killer before the body count rises?

Another delightful cozy mystery from Denise Jaden. Olivia is a relatable and likable heroine, and Pickle is adorable as well as being gifted in pointing out criminal behavior. Miles and Olivia complement each other well as they work together to solve the mystery. The Lark family dynamic sets the stage for plenty of suspects, as does Phil’s abrasive personality towards crew members. The mystery is well plotted and nicely paced, wrapping up with a happy ending for the remaining Lark family members.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.