Killed at the Whim of a Hat

When crime reporter Jimm Juree's mother uproots the family by selling their urban Thai home for a sight unseen beach resort—which turns out to be a worn-down and sad affair—Jimm is certain she is bound for an eternity of cleaning mackerel. But then a VW bus containing two bodies is found buried on Old Mel's palm oil plantation, and the Buddhist monastery's abbot is stabbed to death. Eccentric family members and new police friends join in the pursuit of information and fresh fish for lunch. Jeany Park provides a great range in portraying Jimm, her eccentric family, the police, and other characters. This will appeal to those who enjoy mysteries set in exotic locations and books featuring clever female protagonists and cozy fans. ["This outstanding series debut from the author of the Dr. Siri Paiboun mysteries would appeal to crossover readers who enjoy well-developed ensemble casts and a sense of the absurd," read the starred review of the Minotaur: St. Martin's hc, LJ 5/1/11.—Ed.]—J. Sara Paulk, Wythe-Grayson Regional Lib., Independence, VA