How Can a Frozen Detective Stay Hot on the Trail?

Stevie Diamond #4

by Linda Bailey

In this Stevie Diamond Mystery, Stevie and Jesse, her partner in solving crime, are hot on the trail again. This time they're in Winnipeg, Manitoba -- in the dead of winter -- to clear Jesse's teenage uncle, who has been accused of stealing valuable carnivorous plants. Can they crack this case before Winnipeg puts them in the deep freeze?

Genres: Mystery, Childrens, Middle Grade, Fiction

168 pages, Paperback

First published September 1, 1996

About the author

I was born and grew up in Winnipeg —a daydreamer with her nose in a book. In my twenties, I traveled around the world, mostly by ship. Later, I moved to Vancouver, where I earned a B.A. and M.Ed. at the University of British Columbia. Among my jobs were travel agent, college teacher, instructional designer and editor.

For years, I dabbled with writing. But I didn't begin to write in earnest until I had two young daughters. My first book was published in 1992, and I have since written more than thirty others, including novels, picture books and non-fiction.

I live in Vancouver, a short walk from the sea. I write full-time and still love to travel, read and daydream.
- Source

Series:
* Stanley
* Stevie Diamond Mystery
* Good Times Travel Agency

Awards:
Arthur Ellis Award
◊ Best Juvenile (1997): How Can a Frozen Detective Stay Hot on the Trail?
◊ Best Juvenile (2000): How Can a Brilliant Detective Shine in the Dark?

Reviews

[Meghan · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of my favourite & most memorable books from my childhood. Loved plants + Canadian winter content + mystery!

[Westcoast_girl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 4th book in the Stevie Diamond mystery series. It is worth reading in chronological order but not necessary.

In #4, the plot begins with Stevie on a plane to Winnipeg to visit with Jesse's family. She's looking forward to having a snowy break until she hears about Jesse's cousin, Misha. Soon there is a mystery on their hands!

Misha, Jesse's teenage cousin, is a plant lover and recently joined a group dedicated to carnivorous plants. Unfortunately, a recent break in that resulted in valuable plants being stolen has put Misha in the spotlight as the prime suspect. The police are on his case, as is his mom, Muffy the head of the club, and the other club members. Now Stevie must solve the case before Misha ends up in jail!

But it's even more difficult than it sounds. Misha isn't exactly the most innocent looking guy. He has a sketchy story and some suspicious friends. Furthermore, all evidence points to him. How can Jesse and Stevie prove his innocence? Well, it involves a missing hamster case, some embarrassing flirting, a sticky greenhouse trap, and a lot of detecting. All while working in below zero temperatures in a strange province.

This is a great book for Canadians and a fantastic mystery.