A Scarlet Death

A Scarlet Death by Elaine Viets
Weekend plans? Yes, indeed, with a new Elaine Viets book to read, I had no need to venture out on cold icy streets. I was happy to let Angela take the slippery risks, along with all the other dangers and hardships she faces as Death Investigator. The entitled denizens of the Forest, so concerned about reputation, seem to feel above the law, until they crash into reality and real consequences. It’s sad that the outrageous behavior also backfires on good, honest people, and reassuring that Angela, Chris, and their loyal friends work to set things right. 
Amid the suspense and twists of plot, there are also useful insights into driving on slick roads, recovering from brain injuries, and even (small but annoying) how to deal with TVs in waiting rooms — unplug them. (Well, it works for Angela, not sure if it’d work for me).
Wonderful descriptions of food and settings, a mini-vacation, meant I didn’t want to leave the book. My own TV stayed off as I read to the satisfying ending, but now I want more, greedy of me, but I’ll be patient, as good writing takes time.
This book will release in April, so there’s time to read earlier books in the series before then.

I look forward to each new book in this series and love that the characters grow and continue on through the series. Angela Richman is a death investigator for Chouteau County and attends the death scene, examining the body and the area where the body was found. She is in love with Patrol Officer Chris Feretti, but after the sudden death of her young husband years ago, she is cautious. The bizarre murder of a wealthy resident and the following scandal will rock the Chouteau Forest community. She works with the police and the techs who make sure they recover every bit of evidence from the body and area in order to find justice for the victims. While at the scene, she receives a call from Chris and he has been shot and she rushes to the hospital. The body count is not over for Angela as another body is discovered that may be related to the first murder. Angela is stretched thin as she works with the police and spends time with Chris hoping that he will recover. If you enjoy mysteries and how the puzzle pieces fit together, you will love this series! I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (paytonpuppy)

A Scarlet Death takes place in a fictional, upscale suburb of St. Louis. The main character is Angela Richman, whose job as a death investigator requires her to gather and analyze evidence from crime scenes in assistance to the medical examiners. She is officially assigned to a sensational case in which a wealthy philanthropist is found dead in shocking circumstances. The lead investigator, Detective Jace Budewitz, is under a lot of pressure to solve the crime since a prominent local citizen is involved. An unexpected witness helps Jace and Angela break the case.

Unofficially, Angela is also working on a case that is closer to home and turns her whole life upside down. The series mixes the gritty details of Angela's job with some lighter, humorous moments to keep things from getting too dark. The situation gets tense before things are wrapped up in a satisfying ending, especially for readers who have been following this unique series. I don't know if there will be further books in the series after this, but if there are, it looks like Angela could be facing some big changes!

I received an advance copy of this ebook at no cost from NetGalley and Severn House, but my review is voluntary and unbiased.

Angela Richman is a well developed and likeable characters. The investigations are always twisty and the plot kept me turning pages as there was plenty of surprises.
An entertaining and gripping novel.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

I didn’t realise this book was the eighth book in a series when I started it. However this doesn't affect the mystery itself but perhaps to get the best of the personal relationships should be read in order. There were a lot of twists and turns and some shockingly dark secrets to be revealed. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

This is a great series!!!! You really don't have to read in order as you can read this as a standalone!

This is a little darker than a cozy if people are looking for a cozy read.

The character build is good and liked the writing!!! Great read will recommend

Thanks NetGalley for letting me read and review

Great addition to the Angela Richman series.

A Scarlet Death is a great addition to the Angela Richman series. Angela is a death investigator in the upscale town of Forest, MO. I enjoyed the complex story and the twists and turns Angela and Jace and her friends have to navigate to solve this crime. I love Elaine Viets’ style of writing and though this was a bit darker than other stories, It held me captive from beginning to end.

This is such a perfect cozy mystery to read in the winter curled up next to the fireplace watching the snow fall outside - it gave me Agatha Christie vibes in that way. I really enjoyed how focused this mystery was too. I tend to get annoyed with the mysteries that get too distracted with the detectives’ personal lives/problems, but this one stays consistent and interesting throughout. Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for the arc!