I loved exploring Aunt Dot’s extensive collections with Laurie Sassalyn, her niece. Laurie has returned to Maine, from her home in Seattle, for a brief stay – or will it be permanent? To go through Dot’s possessions following her passing at the age of ninety-something.
The item of greatest interest is a decoy, which may be immensely valuable, or not so much. Laurie sells it to a professional who helps dispose of possessions left by dead ancestors, then wishes she had it back – I won’t give away the reason.
Will she learn the history of how her aunt ended up with the decoy? Will romance blossom with the man who purchased the duck from her? Or with her old high school boyfriend, now the town’s librarian?
Fun times with friends alternate with alone time reliving the memories of Dot, who enjoyed many adventures, Laurie discovers a parallel regarding Dot’s romantic life and love for freedom and independence, and her own preferences.
Flying Solo by Linda Holmes is a well-written page turner. The ending isn’t exactly Cinderella, but it’s a satisfying modern version addressing the question of marriage versus independence.
Mystery Book Reviews by Penny Mason 