Anteater of Death: A Gunn Zoo Mystery

Description

Lucy, the pregnant Giant Anteater was framed. But California zookeeper Teddy Bentley must prove Lucy had nothing to do with the body found in her enclosure or her furry friend will be shipped off to another zoo in disgrace. Then things get worse. The snooty folks at Gunn Landing Harbor attempt to evict Teddy from her houseboat, her father gets targeted by a local gangster, and her mother starts introducing her to eligible bachelors. But Teddy has already given her heart to Sheriff Joe Rejas, a migrant worker's son. Zoo life, animal lore, and the leaky ups and downs of Central California Coast houseboat living create a thrilling backdrop for murder. Betty Webb is the author of the award-winning Lena Jones detective series. The Anteater of Death is first in a series of new Gunn Zoo mysteries. www.bettywebb-zoomystery.com

Betty Webb is the author of the acclaimed Lena Jones mystery series, which includes Desert Cut and Desert Wives. A former Californian who once lived on a boat, like the zookeeper protagonist of The Anteater of Death, Betty now lives in landlocked Arizona, where she volunteers at the Phoenix Zoo. She also teaches Creative Writing at Phoenix College and is a member of the National Association of Press Women, Mystery Writers of America, and the Authors Guild.

I've been impressed with Betty Webb's edgy mysteries about the Southwest, so I was surprised to find she has a softer side and a wicked sense of humor in a book that can only be described as 'High Society meets Zoo Quest.' I've always been a sucker for zoos, so I also relished the animal details in this highly enjoyable read.-- "Rhys Bowen, New York Times bestselling and award-winning author of the Molly Murphy and Royal Spyness mysteries" Webb kicks off her new series with a bright heroine and an appealingly offbeat setting: a firm foundation later episodes can build on.-- "Kirkus Reviews" Webb, author of the well-written Lena Jones PI series, not only presents a clear picture of what it is like to work in a zoo but also introduces an engaging new protagonist who will appeal to mystery buffs who enjoy light animal mysteries.-- "Library Journal" Webb's new series combines a good puzzle with animal lore, a behind-the-scenes look at zoo operations, and plenty of humor.-- "Booklist"