A Poetic Puzzle: A Mystery in 32 Pieces

by Joanne McLaughlin

248 pages, Paperback

Published February 1, 2025

About the author

Joanne McLaughlin writes sharp mysteries, sexy vampire novels, and sweeter short fiction. She is the author of "A Poetic Puzzle," a cozy mystery; "Chasing Ashes," a crime thriller; and the Vampires of the Court of Cruelty trilogy “Never Before Noon,” “Never Until Now,” and “Never More Human." Her recent short fiction appears in the anthologies "Behind the Revolving Door, Volume 1" and "Ruth and Ann's Guide to Time Travel, Volume 1." Her stories “Peppina’s Sweetheart” and “Grass and Granite” are available for Kindle. On her journalist side, Joanne is a longtime editor of prize-winning news and features for newspapers and public media. She lives in Philadelphia, where she indulges her love for home design and walks regularly at a nearby arboretum.

Reviews

[Leslie aka StoreyBook Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not your typical mystery! But don't let that deter you from reading this novel.

Mimi has been blessed, or perhaps cursed, to share the same name as the famous poet Mary Irene Jones (MIJ). Mimi is a poet as well. But when she receives some of the other MIJ's works and MIJ goes missing, she sets off to uncover what happened to her. Is she dead? Did she disappear? What is the answer?

Because this is a different type of mystery, it took me a little while to sort out the players and grasp the story. However, once I did, I enjoyed trying to figure out what happened to MIJ, and if she would be found dead or alive. There is much to her life that is revealed in this novel.

There is a sweet romance brewing between Mimi and Detective Mike Quinn. I like how they work well together, and he doesn't mind her trying to help solve the mystery. This isn't always the case in other books. They also are not rushing into anything when it comes to their attraction for one another.

There are a few despicable characters, primarily the lawyer for MIJ. He seems to rush several things that wouldn't make sense in a normal situation. He might just be one of the sleazy attorneys.

Lastly, if you enjoy poetry, several poems are included. While poetry isn't something I usually read, I enjoyed the selections included in this book.

This is an enjoyable read, and we give it 4 paws up.

[Antaeus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was fortunate to receive a complimentary Bata copy of Joanne McLaughlin's latest novel, A Poetic Puzzle. Although I was not obligated to write a review, I felt compelled to share my thoughts on this cerebral modern mystery.
This story isn't your typical whodunit murder mystery—there are no corpses in bedrooms or bloodstains on the floor. Instead, I'd describe it as a "cozy mystery" or an "intriguing mystery." As a result, the book starts leisurely and develops at its own pace.
The characters are well-crafted, particularly the protagonist, Mimi Jones. The interactions between Mimi and Detective Michael Quinn are especially engaging. As a couple, they are appealing while maintaining a PG-13 rating, thus making this book suitable for both young adults and adults.
Additionally, if you enjoy poetry, you'll appreciate the few poems thoughtfully woven throughout the narrative.
A Poetic Puzzle is both engrossing and easy to read. If you're looking for a cozy mystery to gift to a young adult or to enjoy with a glass of wine, this book is a perfect choice.

[Carol G. · Rating 5 out of 5]

What happened to renowned poet Mary Irene Jones (affectionately referred to as MIJ). How do her next door neighbors play into the mystery? And, why would another lesser known poet/teacher/pet-sitter, Mimi Jones, receive exclusive access to MIJ’s unpublished works? The reader travels along with Mimi and a handsome police detective, unraveling secrets and MIJ’s own poetic clues to the mystery. A well-crafted page-turner for all with special interest for fans of poetry, the city of Philadelphia, the Jersey Shore, and memories of Catholic school nuns.

[Jeff Shakespeare,]

Readers who enjoy a great cozy mystery will love this book! I found the dialog and banter very entertaining; the plot filled with unexpected twists and the characters engaging and realistic. The writing is very clever and compelling. It kept me turning the pages with a plot that is unique and not tarnished with strong sex and violence, so refreshing. Great poetry gives this read an interesting new dimension. Can’t wait to read the next book in this series!

[Gail · Rating 5 out of 5]

Is Mimi Jones guilty of murder, or is she the only person who can solve the mystery of a missing poet? With a handsome detective and the poet's abandoned dog tailing her, Mimi has her hands full. The unexpected twists and turns of this romantic mystery kept me turning the pages. This novel has all the ingredients for an entertaining mystery.

[Maryanne Chappell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I finished A Poetc Puzzle by Joanne McLaughlin last night and loved it! She knows how to weave a mystery like a pro. I was immersed into the plot from page 1. Joanne does such a great job with her mysteries, I hope there's more to come. Highly recommend!

[Chari Small · Rating 4 out of 5]

I met this author at a local author's fair and picked up this book. I really enjoyed the mystery and having the story set mostly in the Philly area. The mystery was well done and kept me guessing all the way through. Easy read and a good one.