I was thrilled to have the opportunity to read and review “A Twinkle of Trouble”, the fifth book in Daryl Wood Gerber’s “Fairy Garden Mystery” series. This has become one of my favorites cozy series, and this book definitely lived up to the high standards set by earlier ones!
Main character Courtney comes across as a genuine, real person. She’s smart, hard-working, kind, and loyal; she seems like the kind of person you could meet (and really like) in real life. The fact that she can see and talk to fairies adds a fun element to her character, and to the story. It’s a tribute to the author that these magical realism elements fit right in with the narrative, and feel believable within the parameters of the story. By this point in the series, I’m as invested in the happenings in the fairy realm as I am with events in Courtney’s world.
The mystery element (in this case, the murder of a friend of Courtney’s who had a tendency to bash local businesses on her social media forums) was very well done, with a second (possibly related) murder to accompany it. I enjoy Courtney as an amateur sleuth, because she actually makes an effort to investigate. She is methodical and focused in her approach, and talks openly to the police. (Of course, they typically want her to stay out of investigations, but at least they listen to her when she finds a clue.) Due to the victim’s nasty social posts, plenty of people have reason to wish her harm, which gives Courtney plenty of angles of look into. This time, many of the suspects are also her friends, which made things a little tricky!
This book also treats the reader to a bit of progress in Courtney’s romance with Brady, as well as some interesting things from the fairly realm. We learn a bit more about how things “work” there, and meet some new fairies. As more and more humans are able to see them, this part of the narrative can take on a larger role. Plus, it’s always amusing when Brady and Courtney’s father CAN’T see the fairies. (I think Brady is open-minded enough to come around; her father….not any time soon!)
All the normal cozy elements are represented as well. The reader will spend time at work with Courtney in her shop, and as she interacts with her friends and pet. There are plenty of lighter moments to offset the murder investigation, and I enjoyed them very much.
All in all, an EXCELLENT cozy mystery with a bit of magical flair. Five out of five slices of perfect provolone!
