A review by Nalini Haynes
Monty and Rose from Monty and Me return in this second instalment of the series, The Bone Ranger. Rose’s near death experience left her traumatized and on stress leave. Monty wants Rose to get better. He believes Rose’s best chance of recovery is to reclaim her confidence via success. So Monty and co decide to help Rose solve another murder. And, wait, here’s one Bennet prepared earlier.
The cast
The Bone Ranger is a bogey man dog mums use to scare puppies. But he’s also real. Monty must face his fears to be set free.
When reviewing Monty and Me I mentioned that I didn’t like the ladybird/ladybug. She doesn’t return. However, my favorite comedic sidekicks – Betty the rat and Nigel the Neighborhood Watch and home owners association president squirrel – return to great affect.
This time round, Rose’s home life is cast into disarray. Actually, it’s absolute mayhem. And it is DELICIOUS. Rose wants to help another ex-felon teenager who was bullied into crime. Her mother descends on Rose, instructing Rose to get rid of the dog, leave her job and so on.
Rose’s mother is, in some ways, a Hyacinth Bucket type but she’s anti-police and obsessed with her sexual appetite. Woe betide her husband who had an accident and injured his back while following her instructions! She’s an absolute nightmare but, combined with all the other madness, an absolute comedic delight.
The verdict
The Bone Ranger is a hilarious cozy murder mystery. Interpersonal dynamics, romance and friendships make this book an absolute delight. Of all the Monty Dog Detective books, this is by far the best: the funniest, most heartwarming, most entertaining. And perfect for the person who needs a cosy escapist read in these stressful times.
In case you click on that link and get sticker shock, I assure you the ebook is MUCH cheaper.
My review of the first book, Monty and Me, is here. And my article about the Kingston Libraries’ cozy crime chat is here; that’s what inspired me to read these books.
Book details
Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
Imprint: Clan Destine Press
Format: I read the (much MUCH cheaper) ebook. 354 pages.
Released: 2021
Category: cozy crime, cozy murder, humor, dogs
