Crime knows no geopolitical boundaries and Jimm gets a scoop when a Volkswagen bus is dug up with two skeletons still in the front seats. The ink is barely dry on Jimm’s story when the abbot at a local monastery looking into the sexual activities of monks and nuns is stabbed to death. This is another story that Jimm feels she will be able to scoop the national papers and which will thrust her back into the crime writing limelight. Well, especially if she is able to solve the murder as well and if she can stay alive long enough and if she doesn’t strangle her odd-ball family as well.  

Jimm Jurree, with her wry observations of her family and her current situation, is a very likable heroine, one who is able to turn her familial and professional frustrations into fodder for her writing – even if it is just a list of all the things that drive her crazy about her new life.  Thailand sounds like an exotic setting, one unfamiliar to many Western readers but Cotterill makes it feel very familiar and comfortable, allowing the setting and atmosphere to enhance the story rather than dominate it. 

Jimm is a careful investigative reporter, though she is lacking her grandfather’s penchant for the truth, often staying just this side of the law. She makes good use of new friends, including a flamboyant police officer who is willing to share more with Jimm than his superiors might like.  Jimm is persistent and doesn’t abandon the older crime and the VW skeletons in favor of the other more glamorous crime. 

Killed by the Whim of a Hat is a delightful first entry into a new series with a wacky cast of supporting characters, an intrepid, dedicated heroine and an unusual setting that is sure to fast become popular with traditional mystery fans.

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry