I've never read Asey Mayo mysteries before, but I heard about them in a different mystery novel, when one of the characters references how much she loves this author. And since I enjoyed that book, I figured I would enjoy this series, too. A strange reason, perhaps, but I love mystery stories and am always looking for a new fix.

I'm happy to report that this reading experiment was a success. I really liked all three novellas that comprise this book and am looking forward to reading more of the Asey Mayo collection. I chose this book exactly because it was three short stories rather than one long novel, and I thought that a suitable entry in to a new series. The first mystery centers around the body of a young girl apparently murdered in a house while being moved; the second concerns a murdered teacher who is traveling to her new position at a prestigious private school, only to arrive dead; and the third and final story is about a murdered astronomer under extremely odd circumstances.

The focus, in all three stories, is definitely on the mystery. The background is delivered quickly, the body discovered or described early on, and the remainder of the story deals with Mayo picking up clues and interrogating the many suspects as he pieces the puzzle together. Mayo is a man with a good sense of humor, unassuming and amiable, but ready to spring in swift and decisive action when needed. He is at his most dangerous when he speaks with a purring note in his voice. Also, he often leads people to reveal more information than they realize with his easy banter. I like mysteries that are like puzzles, and the set ups here are very clever. I was dying to know what it all meant in every story. A fun series, and I am ready to try the next book - I already have it, as it was bought for me as a gift. Taylor is a new author to feed my mystery craving. ( )