Review: 4.5 stars
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 11 12, 2012
Dying Art is an intriguing installment in Shirley Wells' marvelous Dylan Scott mystery series.Ex-lover Maddie Murphy seeks out Dylan Scott following the death of her sister Prue. Local authorities believe her death is related to a string a unsolved burglaries in the neighborhood, but Dylan's instincts are telling him there is more to her untimely demise than meets the eye. Returning to the much disliked town of Dawson's Clough, Dylan uncovers several possible suspects as he tenaciously investigates Prue's death.While Dylan has fond memories of Maddie, he is not too clear on the details of their relationship. He certainly remembers how hot the sex was though and he is still drawn to her. But with his relationship with wife Bev back on track, Dylan has no intention of falling into bed with Maddie. When his investigation reveals how much Maddie has changed over the years, Dylan begins to wonder what role she might have played in her sister's death.Aiding Dylan in his investigation is his friend and retired Detective Chief Investigator Frank Willoughby. Together they follow where the clues lead them and they uncover a fairly large pool of suspects who have various motives for killing Prue. What is Prue's connection to dead artist Jack McIntyre? Did Prue unwittingly reveal secrets worth killing for to local wine bar owner Danny Thompson? And where exactly does Prue's disturbing landlord fit into the picture? Rounding out their suspect list are Maddie's husband Tim and his business partner Eddie Bryson.Of course, a Dylan Scott mystery would not be complete without guest appearances by Dylan's extended family. His relationship with his wife Bev is always entertaining and rather humorous. Dylan and his son Ben are still close and I always enjoy their interactions. What, if any, significance is there to Dylan's introduction to someone from his aging hippie mother's past?As with other novels in the Dylan Scott mystery series, Dying Art is well written with a compelling plot. Shirley Wells provides an entertaining story with plenty of twists, turns and unexpected secrets. The murderer's identity is virtually impossible to figure out and a startling plot twist took me completely by surprise.Another topnotch installment in one of my favorite series, I highly recommend Dying Art to anyone who loves a good mystery.I received a complimentary copy for review.