Elvis and the Blue Christmas Corpse (Southern Cousins Mysteries)
As in previous series entries, the basset hound named Elvis, who channels Elvis Presley and serves as one of the tales narrators, provides the humor in another madcap mystery from the talented Webb. Elvis is trying to get his owners, Callie and Jack, back together while keeping everyone safe from a murderer who electrocutes mall Santas sitting on a lit-up throne. First, Callie’s uncle Charlie is zapped, but a person holding his hand dies. When another Santa is zapped and killed, Callie and her cousin Lovie don disguises to discover who is doing the killing and why. Readers new to the series may have trouble keeping track of suspects, but not to worry: a holiday séance party sorts out several questions. Recipes are included in this enjoyable adventure, which emphasizes humor and zany characters more than mystery. Mary Daheim’s fans will enjoy the repartee among the relatives. --Amy Alessio