The Socialite's Guide to Murder
A Pinnacle Hotel Mystery
A savvy heiress solves two crimes at a Manhattan hotel in S. K. Golden’s satisfying cozy mystery novel The Socialite’s Guide to Murder.
In 1958, Evelyn, pampered and in her twenties, lives in the luxurious Pinnacle Hotel, which is owned by her tycoon father. An Agatha Christie fan, she displays a talent for “finding things,” from misplaced purses to children gone astray. She both copies the tastes of her idol, Marilyn Monroe, and proves to be a keen observer herself. She’s plagued by demons, and a childhood trauma left her agoraphobic. The snug realm of the Pinnacle constitutes her sanctuary from the world.
After a valuable painting disappears from an exhibit, Evelyn’s best friend becomes a prime suspect. The police arrest a hotel employee following an apparent set-up, and Evelyn employs her detection skills to safeguard the reputations of her friend and the Pinnacle, too. A murder on the premises ramps up the tension. Evelyn enlists aid from Mac, a handsome bellhop who’s happy to do her bidding—and not just for tips. Their playful interactions evolve into a sweet romantic subplot. Still, Evelyn is terrified to leave home, even knowing that, to solve the mystery, she’ll have to venture out. Mac helps her to sort through a colorful array of suspects, too.
The plot zips along in the novel’s first half, after which its pace begins to drag. There’s a long gap in the action before an attempt is made on Evelyn’s life in the book’s fast-moving final chapters. Still, Evelyn is the source of the book’s ultimate reveal, out-sleuthing even the police from the comfort of her posh suite.
The Socialite’s Guide to Murder is a witty, lighthearted mystery novel in which a charming sleuth investigates mysteries that hit close to home.
Reviewed by
Paula Martinac
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
