Review: Teetotaled by Maia Chance

Still set in the 1920s, book two in the Discreet Retrieval Agency series picks up where book one left off. Lola Woodby and her former cook and detective agency partner Berta had solved their first case. But, any money they had from that one is just about gone and the rent is due. They are forced to take the first job that comes their way.

The mother of  bride-to-be Grace Whiddle wants to get a hold of her diary. The two ladies are hired because discreet is in the name of their agency. Soon they embark upon an adventure to a health farm where her former brother-in-law is on staff. Lola and Berta try everything they can think of, including climbing in and out of windows, to get the diary. On the night where they are participating in breaking and entering, Grace's future mother-in-law is killed.

Mrs. Whiddle fires Lola and Berta. Before too long has passed, they are lucky enough to land another case - to solve the murder of Grace's future mother-in-law. While it's a more dangerous case than they would like, they are desperate for funds.

Adventures ensue as the Lola and Berta accompanied by Lola's pomeranian try to solve the murder using her former husband's yacht as a base of operations. Lola is a tad clumsy and her dog gets in the way or away as canines are sometimes wont to do. Berta is her stalwart support and companion. Often it seems they have different ideas of how to pursue the case. But they work out their differences by pursuing both theories.

There is a touch of humor in the book and a sprinkling of romance. The plot moves along quickly as they question suspects and pursue leads. It's a good mystery that kept me guessing until the end.

Lola and Berta are fully developed characters. The others aren't quite as much, but their page time is generally less.

I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.  This is an enjoyable, cozy, period piece. The book was released October 4, 2016 from Minotaur Books.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.