Daisies Never Die

A cozy cottage mystery story as the knots and untangles of life are sorted out.

Averil Matthews has been unwell and worried by her lack of energy; her father gives her the task of sorting out his deceased sister’s estate. Averil was certainly not expecting to find so many interesting keepsakes hidden in Aunt Edith’s house. When she discovers a well worn, passionate love letter from the unknown, Tim Averil decides to enlist some help. Curiosity leads Averil to Rose Rountree, a local mystery writer with a request that she help her. Rose and Averil find some interesting things, as they look for clues. Their journey takes them from a small seaside village to Auckland city, as the puzzle is slowly slotted together. With the help of other interesting characters they meet along the way, Edith’s life and loves are gradually unwrapped, with many surprises. Both Rose and Averil often have the feeling that Edith’s spirit is leading them, on as clues begin to make sense of her life.

When it all gets too much, Rose finds comfort in the close friendship she has with Julian, and old friend. By an odd coincidence, Rose’s son, Rob works for the law firm Edith had used and Averil is aware of his regard, but too scared to move closer.

DAISIES NEVER DIE is a story of hope for the future, as the past is left behind but never truly forgotten. The characters were very interesting with some fascinating aspects, making them come alive to the reader. Conflicts were varied and never confusing, as each problem solved produced another and like a jigsaw it was solved when everything was put into place. The opening chapter was intriguing enough to pull the reader into wanting to know how and why Edith sat alone and content. The mood was consistent and the plot flowed smoothly with its own rhythm and in an orderly fashion. This is a fresh and invigorating tale, with a slightly different aspect and surprises around each corner. With its clear ending and theme consistency it was pleasant to read. Some humor in the mixture kept away the sadness at the passing of a quiet and dignified woman that it seems nobody truly knew after all. There was none of the harshness and hard-core sex scenes usually found in many mystery tales. An ideal book for anyone wanting a pleasant book to read, or give as a gift, with no fear of upsetting those who like interesting stories and characters they can bond with.

December 2006