Arriving at the bungalow, Marjorie and Creighton find the body of Veronica Carter, Michael Barnwell’s mistress, beaten, hands and feet removed.  An autopsy shows Veronica was pregnant, vaulting Michael to the top of the suspect list, in spite of his protestations.  While Michael cools his heels in jail and Marjorie plans her wedding, the murder continues to play on Marjorie’s mind, as something doesn’t sit right with her. 

Questioning turns up Veronica’s former lover, whose wife also died about the time he and Veronica broke up, and Veronica’s former roommate, who is subsequently shot while standing and talking to Marjorie.  Not sure who the intended target was, Marjorie turns up her investigation while Emily plans the wedding of the century (at least for Ridgebury) and Creighton tries to keep his beloved alive long enough to tie the knot.

Marjorie McClelland is a delightful character, part independent and modern, and part a woman very much in love.  She makes a very good choice in Creighton, partly because she knows herself so well and is comfortable with who she is.  Ridgebury, Connecticut is a charming town and the townspeople add a colorful backdrop.

  The mystery is clever and sophisticated with a startling and tragic ending that will surprise all but the savviest reader.  Shadow Waltz is a fun, easy read that will have everyone looking forward to hearing Marjorie and Creighton say “I do” as Michael Barnwell continues to protest “I Didn’t.”  

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry