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Dolycas
, July 19, 2019
(view all comments by Dolycas)
Dollycas’s Thoughts---
A rabbit is an unusual character to find in a cozy mystery. The only series I can think of that included a bunny was The Southern Sewing Circle Mysteries by Elizabeth Lynn Casey. The bunny, Paris, in those stories, added a lot of humor but wasn’t one of the leading characters like Bun, the bunny is in Left Fur Dead.
We meet Jules Bridge, owner of the Fur Bridge Farm where she cares for Bun and several other rescued rabbits. Bun is a very special bunny, he can communicate with Jules, using mental telepathy. He is one opinionated rabbit who rarely takes a break. This makes their relationship very interesting. Jules has to be careful because people would never understand the way the two of them “talk” but she does value his intuitive input. Together they work children’s parties and other events to raise awareness about rabbits and what Jules does on her farm. The farm also has a wonderful yarn shop I would love to visit!
On one of their morning walks Bun discovers the body of Author Freeman/Arty the Mime. Jules and Arty sometimes worked the same events. With Bun giving her a big push she decides maybe they can pull a rabbit out of a hat and catch the killer, but chances are they just may find themselves ensnared in the murderer’s trap.
After I got into the rhythm of Bun and Jules dialogues this was a very entertaining read. The author took time to introduce not only Bun and Jules but Jess Plain, a veterinary student almost ready to take the exam for her license. When Jess learns that Jules and the rabbits could be in danger due to her snooping, she moves right into Jules farmhouse. I really like the bond that has formed between these very independent women.
The murder mystery drew out over a longer period of time than the usual form for books in this genre, but in addition to a killer, we were also trying to catch an intruder that was created havoc on the Fur Bridge Farm and trying to ascertain whether both were connected. We also meet a mystery man that unexpectedly shows up, he may help answer some of Jules questions. I did feel Bun and Jules did not give Sheriff Jack Carver much of a chance but he was a patient man while still telling Jules to stay out of his investigation. His wife is a real peach too. I think we could be fast friends.
I feel this series is off to a grand start. I was totally surprised by the ending. The characters are very appealing and the setting is superb. I do love rabbits, we have wild rabbits often hopping through our yard even here in town. In fact, I can see one out my window right now.
I am looking forward to the next Jules & Bun Mystery!
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