Trouble at the Buckeye Festival

by Alice Kanaka

Genre: Mystery, Thriller & Suspense

ISBN: 9798986310572

Print Length: 218 pages

A delightfully warm detective mystery led by two retired seniors and their beloved hometown festival

When one thinks of a mystery novel, warmth and humor may not be the first things that come to mind. Murder, crime, and investigation often dominate the genre, leaving little room for lightheartedness. However, Alice Kanaka defies expectations with her delightful novel, “Trouble at the Buckeye Festival.” This cozy mystery proves that a story can be both fun and charming, offering readers a refreshing twist on the genre.

In the quiet little town where Bumfuzzle and Cattywampus reside, the Buckeye festival is a beloved event filled with activities like horseshoe throwing competitions and chili and pie baking contests. However, this year, the festival faces an unexpected challenge. A series of incidents, ranging from peculiar pranks like shaving a cat’s tail to more sinister acts such as attempted poisoning and murder, disrupt the festivities.

Enter Marge and Joey, two elderly citizens and longtime friends—Marge, a retired teacher, and Joey, a war veteran. Unlike the typical young crime-solvers often found in mysteries, this duo takes center stage in unraveling the mysteries plaguing the Buckeye festival. Their friendship and sense of adventure shine through, celebrating the enduring spirit of adventure that few people manage to retain beyond their youth.

The town of Buckeye comes alive in Kanaka’s storytelling, portrayed in an endearing and genuine manner. The festive atmosphere is captured with excitement and joy, but it is the people and their small-town politics that truly bring the setting to life. “Trouble at the Buckeye Festival” evokes nostalgia for beloved 80s films like Tim Curry’s “Clue” (1985), which skillfully transformed the morbid subject of murder into a whimsical and enjoyable experience—an accomplishment that is not easily achieved.

As you delve into the pages of “Trouble at the Buckeye Festival,” you’ll find yourself in the company of charming characters and a captivating setting. This cozy mystery serves as an excellent companion for a quiet evening, allowing you to immerse yourself in its warmth and coziness. The story touches on themes of friendship, romance, redemption, and values, providing a comforting and heartwarming reading experience.

Promising to be the first installment in a new series featuring this unlikely detective duo, “Trouble at the Buckeye Festival” leaves readers eagerly anticipating their next adventure. Alice Kanaka has created a delightful world of mystery, friendship, and whimsy that will leave you yearning for more. So, grab a cup of tea, cozy up, and allow yourself to be transported to the town of Buckeye, where mystery and charm intertwine in the most delightful way.