Nothing out of the ordinary ever happened to 45-year-old English teacher, Amelia Prentice. But, that was yesterday. While attempting to make photocopies in the public library, Amelia stumbles over the body of former student, Marguerite LeBow. Whether Amelia realizes it or not, she's now stumbled into a dangerous world of greed where every step she takes may be her last.

Rumors that Marguerite took drugs didn't make sense to Amelia. Marguerite's school journal contained no written indication that the young woman was troubled. Her mother, Marie, raised her when her husband abandoned them both. They had a roof over their head. Marguerite had a decent job. Then why was she murdered? That's what Detective Dennis O'Brien is trying to find out and in time, Amelia.

Various accidents directed at killing Amelia nearly kill her friend, Lilly Burns and even Amelia's cat. And the list of characters grows with each chapter. Derek Standish appears capable of some dark deed. Amelia witnesses first hand what the former student is capable of. What about the mysterious investor who seems to have come out of no where and is dead set on investing on the town? Or the annoying real estate agent, Sally Jennings, who is determined to get Amelia to sell her house? Or the eccentric professor Alexander, who believes in the Lake Champlain Monster and who adores Ms. Burns?

IRREGARDLESS OF MURDER indirectly focuses on a ruthless person who will do anything to realize a dream. This person's goal is occurring throughout America, so there is much than a touch of reality woven into the storyline. The plot moves along at a good pace and keeps you hungry for resolution. Eccentric characters entertain you and seem very real. You'll wish you could have them over for dinner. I absolutely loved Irregardless of Murder and I'm looking forward to reading more of Ellen Edwards Kennedy's mysteries.

4 out of 5 TRENCHCOATS
-Denise Fleischer, GWN Online book reviewer
12/29/2001