I am always a fan of mysteries and, I think, cozy mysteries are some of my favorites. I recently had the opportunity to read and review the first book in the Arnie & Zellie cozy mystery series. What did I think of Brazen Gambit by Eric Small?
I received a complimentary ebook copy of this book for use in my review. All opinions are my own.
About the Book
I raced in to the sight of her sitting placidly on my couch – completely, utterly, stark naked.
Only a small blip in the lives of lifelong best friends Arnie Fischer and Zellie Morgan, who with no license and even less practical experience form a detective agency. Their fervent desire for a nice little “find stuff” business rapidly devolves into perilous encounters with a mysterious buxom blonde client, a dead body, assorted mobsters, a sleazy detective, a sinister fashion designer, a car dealership owner only vaguely clinging to reality, and yes, a naked ex-girlfriend on the couch. And even more dangerous – navigating a burgeoning romantic relationship. No problem. Of course, saving Zellie from the clutches of very dangerous people might be a little more difficult…
My Review
Readers will Love the Characters in Brazen Gambit. In true cozy mystery fashion, the detectives find help and support from an eclectic group of friends and neighbors as they bring their first mystery to a resolution. It took me a bit to settle into Arnie and Zellie's relationship--but, in no time, it was hard to not smile at so many of the interactions and characters throughout the book.
The Author Keeps Readers Interested and Entertained. While the book isn't action packed with heart-stopping scenes--it's entertaining for readers. There are enough twists to keep readers interested--and even, at times, a little confused by the actions or events taking place. As the book progressed, I grew attached to Arnie and Zellie and became invested in, not only this story; but, future books of the series as well.
Would I recommend Brazen Zambit by Eric Small? If you enjoy cozy mysteries--or books without a lot of violence and adult themes--this is a well done story. I love books that just make me smile and root for the characters through all of the subplots and twists. The author's writing style did just that. This was a fun introduction to the series and I look forward to reading more from this author and the series.
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Meet the Author
Eric Small, a long-time public servant who wrote extensively for work, began writing fiction in retirement. A lover of cozy mysteries himself, the genre perfectly fit into his desire to write something containing humor, romance, mystery and just plain fun. As a longtime reader of cozy mysteries, he found such stories a natural fit for his writing. Brazen Gambit is the first of a planned series of Arnie & Zellie Investigations, set in the environs of Middletown, New Jersey, where Eric was born and raised. He now lives in Florida with his wife of over thirty years.
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