Jane Darrowfield is a year into her retirement, and she’s already traveled and planted a garden. She’s organized her photos, her recipes, and her spices. The statistics suggest she has at least a few more decades ahead of her, so she better find something to do . . .
Available in mass market paperback, ebook, audiobook and large print formats from all retailers
After Jane helps a friend with a sticky personal problem, word starts to spread around her bridge club—and then around all of West Cambridge, Massachusetts—that she’s the go-to person for situations that need discreet fixing. Soon she has her first paid assignment—the director of a 55-and-over condo community needs her to de-escalate hostilities among the residents. As Jane discovers after moving in for her undercover assignment, the mature set can be as immature as any high schoolers, and war is breaking out between cliques.
It seems she might make some progress—until one of the aging “popular kids” is bludgeoned to death with a golf club. And though the automatic sprinklers have washed away much of the evidence, Jane’s on course to find out whodunit .
A Favorite book of 2020
Kings River Life, January 30, 2021
A sprightly new cozy series for Ross with plenty of entertaining characters, hidden clues, and a touch of romance.
Kirkus Reviews, April 2019
I can’t gush enough over how perfectly balanced this book was, with its intelligent mystery, keen insight into contemporary life, and the sense of wry humor that made it all an utter delight to read.
Criminalelement, July 3, 2020
Odom’s strong expression builds up or releases tension, depending on the situation, allowing listeners to live Jane’s experiences with her.
Audiofile Magazine, July 2020
….a lively novel that builds suspense, keeps engagement, and is highly entertaining.
Rosepoint Publishing, January 28, 2021
…a charming “cozy” mystery, with a delightfully original character, a well-crafted plot and loads of wry humor.
Bushnell on Books, Kennebec Journal, March 12, 2020
…not only the best cozy of last year for me, but also the most heartfelt work of general fiction featuring an older lead I’ve read all year.
The Frumious Consortium, January 15, 2021
Just when I would get comfortable with thinking I had everything figured out, she would throw in a curveball that had me scrambling for a new theory.
Lisa K’s Book Reviews, June 2019
This is the start of what I hope will become another long-running series by Barbara Ross, who also pens the terrific Maine Clambake mysteries.
Suspense Magazine, June 2019
I loved it.
Dru’s Book Musings, June 2019
Jane is a brilliant cozy series character.
The Cozy Review, June 2019
…plenty of twists and surprises before we reach the logical conclusion.
Carstairs Considers, June 2019
I could not put Jane Darrowfield, Professional Busybody down….nor did I want to !!!
Cozy Mystery Book Reviews, July 2019
Hats off to Ross – everything she touches is good, solid fun (with a body or two to boot)!
Wonder Woman Sixty, August 2019
The humor is witty and sharp, and Jane herself is an outstanding investigator who displays impressive common sense and practicality.
Kings River Life, August 2019
Jane Darrowfield is a refreshing new protagonist…I can’t wait for the next book.
NightstandBookReviews, November 2019
Jane is a wonderful character…and the plot for this mystery was fairly unique.
This is My Truth Now, December 3, 2021
Blog Posts about Jane Darrowfield, Professional Busybody
Day In The Life ~ Jane Darrowfield by Barbara Ross
Dru’s Book Musings, June 25, 2019
Cute Baby Sells Jane Darrowfield
Wicked Authors, May 15, 2019
Difficult Conversations
Wicked Authors, March 9, 2020
Why I Agreed to a B&N Exclusive
Wicked Cozy Authors, July 8, 2019
Wicked Inspiration
Jungle Red Writers, June 26, 2020
Barbara Ross 