Monday, November 4, 2024

Novella Review: Sheer Window by Diane Vallere (Material Witness Mysteries #4.5)

Stars: 5 out of 5
Pros: Fun short visit with Poly and a great story
Cons: Thankfully, none for me
The Bottom Line:
Watching the neighbors
Is there a Thanksgiving crime?
A fun novella




Poly Would Be Thankful to Learn What Is Happening Across the Street

Thanksgiving is often an overlooked holiday when it comes to cozy mysteries. Kind of like real life, I guess. So when I heard that Diane Vallere was going to have a Thanksgiving novella for her Material Witness series this year, I started looking forward to it. Sheer Window didn’t disappoint.

This Thanksgiving, Poly Monroe is hosting a few friends for the day in the apartment over her fabric store. When she learns that someone has moved into the apartment over the bar across the street, she decides to invite them to join the festivities. However, not only does she not get a response when she goes over there, but she manages to twist her ankle. Now injured in her apartment, she finds herself watching what is happening across the street. She thinks something strange is going on. Is she right? Can she get anyone to believe her?

Obviously, this story is a loving homage to Hitchcock’s classic Rear Window. I watched the movie years ago, and the details are fuzzy in my mind. There might have been a few Easter eggs I missed, but there are some obvious nods that were fun. But even if you haven’t seen the movie, you’d still enjoy this visit with Poly.

The story itself was great. There is enough happening across the street to keep our interest, but the things happening with all the characters in Poly’s apartment provide the perfect way to distract from the main story. All of this is balanced well, and this novella is a wonderful length for this story. It kept me interested without feeling like it was too drawn out.

And yes, we get to see quite a few of the regulars. It was great to spend the holiday with them. Even if you haven’t met the cast yet, you’ll be able to jump in here and enjoy spending time with them.

As I said, this is a novella. That makes it perfect to be able to slip in to what can be a busy month. You could easily read it in a session or two if you wanted.

Sheer Window is a sheer delight. You’ll be thankful you set aside some time to read it.

You’ll also enjoy the rest of the Material Witness Mysteries.

NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.

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