August Book Club: A History of Murder by Brook Peterson

A History of Murder (Jericho Falls Cozy Mysteries Book #1) by Brook Peterson

Ever had a corn dog that led to a police escort? Welcome to Chloe Martin’s life in A History of Murder, where a rush to find a restroom turns into a full-blown mystery in Jericho Falls, Nevada. Chloe’s unexpected return to the town after thirteen years is not a happy homecoming. Lured by her Grandma Lily under the pretense of illness, she plans a quick exit—until a murder in the flowerbed and Grandma being pegged as the prime suspect derail her plans.

Chloe’s character is deeply relatable. Her return to the tourist town, laden with teenage memories, is something she dreads. But the past and present collide when Chloe decides to clear her grandmother’s name. The story is a compelling mix of humor, heartache, and mystery. Brook Peterson navigates the twists and turns of small-town dysfunction populated by characters that are flawed yet endearing.

The romantic subplot adds a welcome layer to the story, with Chloe caught between the police chief who gave her a memorable welcome back to town and a past love hoping to mend old wounds. Not to mention, Elliott the cat and Jed the dog provide the much-needed furry comfort along the way.

Peterson keeps the reader guessing, with several well-timed twists. By the end, I was rooting for Chloe’s healing, hoping she can finding a place to call home again. Whether you’re a mystery bookworm or a lover of all things small town, A History of Murder promises a ride worth taking—corn dogs and all!

Currently there are three books in this series, all available in Kindle Unlimited and they are also available on Audible!

Kelly Brakenhoff is the author of 15 books and a seasoned ASL interpreter. She splits her writing energy between two series: cozy mysteries set on a college campus and children’s books featuring Duke the Deaf Dog.

Parents, kids, and teachers love the children’s books and activity guides because they introduce ASL and the Deaf community through fun, engaging stories. And if you enjoy a smart female sleuth, want to learn more about Deaf culture, or have ever lived in a place where livestock outnumber people, the Cassandra Sato Mystery series will have you connecting the dots faster than a group project coming together the night before it’s due.

A proud mom to four adults, head of the dog-snuggling department, and grandma to a growing brood of perfectly behaved grandkids, Kelly and her husband call Nebraska home.