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Lucy English is a sociologist, mom, and admirer of the great work of human services professionals.
Reviewed by Susan Sewell for Readers' Favorite
A traumatized boy is the key witness in the search for a murderer in the fascinating murder sleuth mystery Penny Legend by Lucy English. Penny is still on probation for becoming too emotionally involved with one of her clients, despite the fact that she did solve the girl's mother's murder. So when Legend is brought to her office, unable to speak and with a bullet wound to his leg, Penny struggles to keep a professional distance and not become too attached to him and his situation. With Legend's guardian in jail on suspicion of murder, Penny tries to help Legend adjust to the many new changes in his life, all the while hoping to help him verbally communicate with her. In the meantime, while Penny is assisting Legend with these challenges, Detective Connor is nagging her to let him interrogate the young witness. The detective is hoping that Legend will be able to identify the murderer. Convinced that questioning the small boy might cause him even more damage, Penny refuses to allow the detective to approach Legend and sets out on her own to uncover the killer. Penny's sleuthing brings her in contact with another facet of society and puts her life in danger. Can she solve the murder before it is too late for her and Legend? Or will they become the next victims?
Penny Legend by Lucy English is a thrilling sleuth mystery that holds the reader's attention until the final page. The suspense starts escalating from the first page, culminating in a satisfying finish with a surprising twist. The plot and subplot meld well, blending Penny's personal and professional life. The characters are interesting, and each is unique and likable. Penny's character gives the reader a glance into the types of situations a social worker has to contend with, and how difficult it could be to compartmentalize. I came away from the book with a whole new perspective and a feeling of respect and admiration for social workers. It is an outstanding mystery novel and will please those who love a good cozy murder mystery.
