I just got an ARC copy from NetGalley, and plan to start reading this later tonight.

Finished Short Review, great book get it on the publishing date 28 Jan 2020, a little more detailed below.

4 1/2 stars
The Cat Latimer Mystery series is currently one of my favorite cozy mystery series and I was lucky enough to get an ARC from NetGalley, in exchange for a fair review. In the first five books I rated four of the books 4 star, one 3 1/2 stars and now this latest 4 1/2 stars. Why the slight bump? The book I rated 3 1/2 was rated as to fears I had for the series moving forward and a character I don't care for. This book is rated higher because everyone of my favorite characters, the reason the series is one of my favorites all have prominent roles in the book. Cat the main character, Seth, Shauna, Uncle Pete and Shirley and they all act like intelligent adults. None run off doing something stupid or keeping information from each other, two things that make me cringe in a cozy mystery even Mrs. Rice the snooping side character. Took off 1/2 star because one of my favorite things about the writers retreat is when they actually talk about the process of writing or the business side of being an author and that didn't happen until 1/4 to 1/3 of the way in. But it does happen, I just had to wait awhile to get there.

The series wide story moves along nicely in this book, with some old problems getting resolved and new issues opening up. I'd highly recommend this book with the caveat that if you enjoy cozies you read the series in order, not that you have to this stands on it's own just fine but you'll get more enjoyment from the book if you get to know the characters across the series.

Cozies Reading Challenge ( )

Cat Latimer's writer's retreat has several couples this time that are involved with blogs and travel guides. While on a hike, Cat notices a foot in the underbrush and our victim is discovered. But who is he? The body is identified as Chance McAllister, a recluse gold miner, but Cat's boyfriend, Seth, says that's not possible because Chance was killed in Germany in the Army years ago.

The evolving mystery and it's resulting revelations keep the reader guessing what really happening until the end.

Good addition to the series. ( )

A Field Guide to Homicide by Lynn Cahoon is the 6th A Cat Latimer Mystery. Cat Latimer and the group from her current writer’s retreat are on a hike led by Seth, Cat’s boyfriend. The reach a resting place when Cat notices a foot sticking out of a huckleberry bush across the way. The body belongs to a recluse who lived in the mountains near his gold claim. The victim is identified as Chance McAllister which Seth says is impossible. Seth served with Chance who supposedly died in Germany over ten years ago. Cat’s curiosity is aroused. It is lucky that Seth’s unit is having a reunion this week so Cat can do a little snooping around. I thought A Field Guide to Homicide contained good writing and the story moved along quickly which made this cozy mystery easy to read. This book can be read as a standalone for those new to the series. All the necessary background information is included. The characters are developed and realistic. The mystery was unusual for a cozy in that the reader finds out information along with Cat. We follow her along as she searches for clues and asks questions. I thought the mystery could have used a little oomph. I liked how the whodunit all tied together in the end. I did feel that there was a question or two left unanswered at the end. There were a couple side stories happening at the same time. Shauna has returned from visiting her brother, Jake and it was not the visit she had hoped it would be. Shauna must figure out how she will handle Jake’s persistent pestering for money. Seth is very closemouthed about his time in the army. He will not answer Cat’s questions and his mood has taken a downswing. Uncle Pete’s girlfriend, Shirley Mann is visiting from Alaska. Their relationship is progressing nicely and there might be wedding bells in their future. The current student from Coventry, Brodie wants to take his writing in a new direction. He could use a little guidance. It was interesting to learn more about the publishing industry. Cat shares her knowledge with her writer’s retreat group to help them decide whether to self-publish or go the traditional route. I find Cat and Seth’s relationship to be realistic. They have their ups and downs as do any couple. A Field Guide to Homicide has charming cozy moments with writing, chatting, cooking, and eating Shauna’s tasty food along with a special ending. A Field Guide to Homicide has a calamitous climb, a solitary stiff, a selfish sibling, a wistful writer, scrumptious cuisine, and a perplexing puzzle. ( )