A Field Guide to Murder, by Michelle L. Cullen (Crooked Lane Books, 2026)

Feisty senior citizen Harry and his overqualified-but-unadventurous temporary caregiver Emily make a surprisingly capable team of amateur detectives.

Harry’s travelled the world, immersed himself in many cultures, and racked up a number of contacts who are about to become very useful. Emma, well, she’s stayed local and helped people as a critical care nurse—until the stress overloaded her. Now, she’s providing short-term care as Harry recovers from a broken hip.

They’re both convinced Harry’s neighbour’s death was murder. When the case is closed as an accident, Emma can’t stop her injured employer from investigating. Then her stubbornness kicks in, and he can’t keep her out of danger.

The setting is a posh retirement community in Ohio, and a map of the houses around the circle would have really helped. Maybe a character list too. Naturally, everybody has secrets. With so many neighbours suddenly seeming suspicious, it was a little hard to keep track of who was connected how, and where they lived in relation to the others.

A Field Guide to Murder is an enjoyable mystery with heart. I’m looking forward to book 2, A Field Guide to Death and Deceit, when Harry and Emma tackle another case.

Michelle L. Cullen’s website describes her books as “Whodunits with wit and warmth.” Based on this book, I’d have to agree. For more about the author and her work, visit mlcullen.com.

[Review copy from the public library.]