Peril in Pink

Peril in Pink is the debut novel for Canadian author Sydney Leigh. It's the first book in a new cozy mystery series that is set in The Pearl, a Bed and Breakfast that Jess and Kat, two BFFs, have just opened in the small-town where they grew up. 

They've invited influencers to get the buzz started and have Jess' ex-boyfriend, now a singing sensation after he won a TV talent show, play for the guests. What could go wrong? Well, a couple of murders could put a damper on things. 

What I loved: As a small-town gal, I love a small-town setting and the B&B location enables lots of possible storylines and B&B guests for future books. Leigh provides bits of humour, some good, not-too-grisly-muuuurders, a handful of potential culprits and a cast of quirky residents while Jess plays amateur sleuth. 

Wee Beefs: The story is a little heavy on hashtag slang and, at times, I found the large cast of characters, particularly the tertiary characters who pop into the story briefly, hard to keep track of. 

Overall, this was an enjoyable, quick read and an impressive debut. And despite the body count, The Pearl sounds like a cool spot for a girls weekend. Where do I make my reservation?

Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to the publisher for the advanced copy of this book which was provided in exchange for my honest review.

My Rating: 3.5 stars

Author: Sydney Leigh

Genre: Cozy Mystery, Canadian

Series: 1st in Hudson Valley B&B mystery series

Type and Source: ebook from publisher via NetGalley

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

First Published: March 5, 2024

Book Description from GoodReads: Schitt’s Creek meets Only Murders in the Building in this fresh debut mystery. Everything is coming up rosé for innkeeper Jess Byrne until a murder on opening weekend gives her B&B’s killer vibe a whole new meaning.

It’s the grand opening of The Pearl B&B in Hudson Valley, and owner Jess Byrne has prepared the ultimate, Insta-worthy welcome, complete with her ex-boyfriend—reality singing sensation Lars Armstrong—performing live. As guests check in and mimosas are poured, Lars arrives with his stepdad-turned-manager Bob in tow. But things go south when Bob is found dead, and Lars is the prime suspect.

After a desperate plea from Lars, and knowing the reputation of her B&B is at stake, Jess agrees to help clear Lars’ name, but the more she digs, the less sure she is that he’s innocent. Especially when he’s found at the scene of another murder.

With the guests under lockdown, the B&B in the press for all the wrong reasons, and a killer on the loose, Jess is in over her head. With the help of her best friend and business partner Kat, Jess is determined to uncover the truth before Lars is put behind bars and The Pearl is permanently cancelled.