REBECCA'S REVIEW:
"She'd built her reputation on being able to make all her bride's wedding dreams come true. The last few days it seemed she couldn't please anyone . . . "
Wedding gown designer Vivien Sheffield was beyond perplexed, she was riddled with anxiety. Brides in her community were showing up dead, wearing her private label; to make matters worse, the murder weapons were among the household items listed on Wynton's Department Store's coveted bridal guide. Not surprisingly, young women were getting nervous about using her services at Wynton's wedding salon. Adding to the confusion was a nosy reporter hanging around just waiting to print any and all of the hearsay regarding the unfortunate affair.
Vivien's closest friends among the store's employees showed unwavering loyalty, but their own circumstances competed for their attention. Family stresses, low self-esteem, and unexpected promotions were time consuming, but when the one with evil intentions goes a step too far, they form an unwavering cavalry.
With its ingenious setting and endearing characters, this department store story captures the essence of a time gone by, when beautiful stores and their employees took great pride in professional salesmanship with women being increasingly added to the work force for a variety of reasons. Adding the element of mystery and the value of friendship into the mix adds up to a pleasurable shopping *reading* experience.
*I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book through Barbour Publishing. 3.5 stars
PAULA'S REVIEW:
A trip down memory lane.I love historical fiction especially when it teaches me something.
This time it was so nostalgic for me because this era in 1956 is within my actual memory. My mother worked in a department store in our city. I would use her discount to buy material and patterns to make my clothes in the mid 60s. I even made my wedding dress.
Except for the murder mystery part, this story reminded me of TV shows, fashion, cosmetics and the general atmosphere of my growing up years.
The plot was fascinating and realistic. The setting and era were spot on. It brought back memories of the social injustice of the times that were prevalent during my teen years when inroads were being made to erase prejudices.
I loved the close friendship between Vivien, Mirette, Audrey, Mary Jo and Gigi, and the representation of Southern Charm and underlying faith thread.
This is the first time I have read this author and it made me want to read the previous book: The Women of Wynton’s.
*A complimentary print copy of this book was provided by Barbour Publishing and via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*5 stars and an underlying faith thread
BackCover Blurb:
Vivien’s Bridal Creations Found at Murder Scenes
Mid-century glam meets murder mayhem in a series of cozy mysteries at Wynton’s Department Store.
It is 1956 in Levi City, Florida. Vivien Sheffield, renowned bridal gown designer and consultant for Wynton’s Department Store, is facing the greatest challenge of her career. Someone has been killing brides who wore one of her custom gowns in their wedding! Vivien’s fellow employees and close friends—Audrey, Mary Jo, and Gigi—and her assistant Mirette spring into action to save Miss Vivien and the young brides of Levy City before the murderer succeeds at destroying Vivien’s business at Wynton’s. . .and her reputation.
Be sure to also read The Women of Wynton’s by Donna Mumma
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