Introduction

It’s Jazz Fest in New Orleans and the giant puppets from the Beastmaster Theater are parading through the French Quarter. But as Carmela Bertrand and her best friend, Ava, enjoy the parade, a terrible crash echoes from Devon Dowling’s antique shop. Rushing inside they find Devon collapsed with the only witness his small dog Mimi. Has he been shot? Stabbed? When the police arrive they realize he was stabbed with an ice pick. Running her own shadow investigation, Carmela works behind the scenes to catch Devon’s killer. Was it the greedy landlord, young assistant, fat cat art collector, or mysterious president of the Vampire Society? This is trademark Laura Childs – filled with drama, outrageous humor, mischief, fun craft tips, and delicious recipes. And because New Orleans is a top go-to spot, you’ll also enjoy the descriptions of food and landmarks in Mumbo Gumbo Murder!

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Excerpt

Clutching each other tightly, Carmela and Ava tiptoed past tilting tombstones and gaping crypts. The wind had picked up and the night air felt as though it were alive with spirits.
“Over there?” Ava asked. They could just make out the obelisk straight ahead, its needle-like spire plunging skyward.
Just as they drew to within ten feet of the obelisk, the clouds slowly parted and a shaft of moonlight shone down like a key light on a darkened stage.
“Do you see him?” Ava asked.
Carmela blinked. Were her eyes playing tricks on her? “I think he’s . . .”
Sonny Boy was there alright. He was sitting on the grass, his back resting against the tomb and his legs sprawled out to either side of him.
And even though Sonny Boy was staring straight ahead at them, it was quite obvious that his throat had been cut from ear to ear.
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Discussion Questions

What was unique or unusual about the opening chapter? Did it prickle the hairs on the back of your neck?

Does the author create enough of a “sense of place” that you could picture the Beastmaster Puppets, the wrecked antique shop, and the plight of the little dog Mimi? How about Memory Mine, Carmela’s shop in the French Quarter?

Did you feel there were enough twists and turns in the story? If so, what were your favorites?

Have you visited New Orleans? What were your favorite scenes from the book that depicted New Orleans places and landmarks?

Did you enjoy the fact that the author combined mystery with plenty of humor?

Do you think Carmela and Edgar Babcock will finally get married? Or is she too much for him to handle?

Do you think Carmela is able to balance her career with her personal life as well as being an amateur sleuth? Do you think most working women are able to achieve a good balance?

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