Diana Killian already has a winning cozy series on her hands (Poetic Death Mysteries - watch for book #4 due out later this year), so for me the question was whether or not this new Mantra for Murder series would be different enough and interesting enough to warrant an entirely new series. The answer? A resounding `Yes!'
In Corpse Pose, Ms. Killian has woven an excellent mystery, a fascinating venue, an edgy and unique cast of characters, and a beautiful story about change, forgiveness, and rebirth. Even those readers who, like me, had to do modified versions of even the simplest Yoga poses in grade school - at the most limber times of our lives - will enjoy meeting and spending time with Anna Jolie and Elysia Alexander.
When the book starts out, we learn that A.J. is a successful freelance marketing consultant who's built a thriving business with her ex-husband. She's independent and self-sufficient, having spent her childhood caring for an alcoholic parent who provided little nurturing in return. Growing up, her mother's sister, Diantha Mason (Aunt Di), saw to most of A.J.'s emotional and/or spiritual needs. She was A.J.'s one constant in an otherwise chaotic existence. A phone call from Detective Oberlin of the Stillbrook PD informs A.J. of her aunt's death and shatters the calm she has so carefully constructed.
The mystery is deliciously complex, but the characters are what makes the story so intriguing. These are not cookie-cutter characters by any means. They make the story all the more believable by their breadth and depth. All in all, Corpse Pose is an excellent cozy mystery, and I look forward to future escapades featuring this endearing mother-daughter duo and the Sacred Balance Studio. Namaste!
Carol Ann Hopkins 4/20/2008
