A Deadly Row by Casey Mayes

A Deadly Row may be the first in a new mystery series, "A Mystery by the Numbers," but it's obvious that author Casey Mayes has written mysteries before.  And, I won't give away any secrets, but if you think about cozy mysteries and North Carolina, then check the copyright page, it's probably no longer a secret as to who Casey Mayes is.  No matter what name is used on this new series, though, it marks the introduction of two wonderful characters, Savannah Stone and her husband, Zach. 

Savannah quit teaching math to create number and logic puzzles, a job she loves.  And, she and Zach retired to a nice little place in the mountains of North Carolina.  But, Zach wasn't as ready as Savannah to settle in.  He was forced to retire from his job as police chief of Charlotte, after he was shot in the line of duty, and unable to work.  He's too young to sit at home so he frequently takes jobs as a consultant when police departments need help.  The chance to return to Charlotte and help in a murder investigation might have sounded interesting, but two people were killed, and it looks as if the mayor, the man who introduced Savannah and Jack, is the next target.  But, when the police department hired Zach, they didn't know Savannah's skills would be just as useful.

The killer has sent notes about the crimes, and on the back of the notes are numbers that seem familiar to Savannah.  And, when a picture of Savannah arrives, it only serves to make Zach and Savannah even more determined to investigate.  Who could get close enough to take that picture, unless it was someone the couple already knew? 

This first mystery has everything going for it.  Savannah and Zach Stone are an attractive couple who work well together as sleuths.  It's not far-fetched to have a professional in Zach, accompanied by his wife when he's on a consulting job.  At the moment, the series is set in North Carolina, but the job of consultant presents great opportunities for cases in other locations.  And, the side story about Savannah's family was an extra treat. 

I hope A Deadly Row marks the start of a series that will flourish, allowing Savannah and Zach to take consulting jobs for years.

Casey Mayes' website is http://www.caseymayes.com/

A Deadly Row by Casey Mayes.  Berkley Prime Crime, ©2010. ISBN 9780425236413 (paperback), 304p.

*****
FTC Full Disclosure - I have copies from both the author and the publisher.  They sent them in hopes I would review this book.