Gertie is immediately suspected by local constable Northcott, with her hot temper and fierce protectiveness of the twins she and Ian shared.  Northcott releases Gertie to Cecily’s custody knowing that the spa manager has a knack for solving murders when left to her own devices.  Ian’s current wife Gloria arrives at the spa, and upon learning of Ian’s death, dissolves into hysterics.  Not wanting to turn her away, and wanting to keep a close eye on her, Cecily finds room at the inn for Gloria.

Adding to the air of confusion at the inn, which has wiped away the festiveness Madeline has created with her displays, are petty thefts and missing jewels.  Working quickly and against the admonishments of Northcott and her husband, Cecily sets out to find a thief and a killer before Father Christmas arrives.

 A series that has become a dependable holiday classic, Decked with Folly provides the right amount of merriment and Victorian charm mixed with murder and mayhem.  As charming as the Pennyfoot Spa is, it has become a dangerous place to visit during the Yuletide. 

Cecily is a headstrong woman who often takes matters into her own hands, much to the dismay of her husband and the local constabulary.  The mystery is carefully plotted with the usual twists, turns and complications.  Gloria’s hysterics not withstanding, no one, even the twins, is terribly sorry to see Ian dead and there are plenty of suspects. 

Another fun, holiday themed mystery will please fans of the long running Pennyfoot series and its delightful heroine Cecily Sinclair Baxter.                                                              

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry