Because Lois was the Chief of Police’s aunt, there is much pressure to solve the case; somehow the women from the historical society convince Peggy only she can track down the murderer. Peggy agrees, though she has no personal connection to the victim and her areas of expertise can offer no additional information that she can see. Lois is a seemingly innocuous old lady, and why anyone would kill her is beyond Peggy. She asks some innocent questions, and soon realizes that family grudges can go back several centuries sometimes.

At the same time while trying to solve the murder, Peggy is getting used to having her parents living in the same town, and deciding how to introduce the fact that veterinarian Steve is more than just her good friend. Peggy’s mother has definite ideas as to how long a woman should mourn her husband (Peggy is a recent widow) but Steve is threatening to propose to Peggy in front of her entire family if she doesn’t come clean.

Written in a breezy style, A Corpse for Yew is another entertaining addition into this husband and wife’s series featuring Peggy Lee. One element that is usually more prominent in this series that is missing is Peggy’s late night chess games with Night Flyer, a mostly anonymous man with connections to her husband. Even though it seems she is settling down with Steve, they added an extra air of mystery and an addition element of romance to the plot.

Other than her natural curiosity, there is very little reason for Peggy to get in the middle of this investigation, especially when it takes a historical turn that does not include botany. Still the investigation is interesting and readers with strong interests in Southern history will find an additional layer of interest and those who have been rooting for Peggy and Steve to finally make it official will be glad to see the couple making a public commitment.

Peggy’s parents’ recent relocation will also add some smiles to any adult reader who has once again felt like a teenager in the presence of her parents. Some good tips on how to weather a drought without entirely giving up on your garden are also included.                                                    

--Jennifer Monahan Winberry