A review by theavidreaderandbibliophile
Sleuth on Safari by A.R. Kennedy

3.0

Sleuth on Safari by A.R. Kennedy is the debut of A Traveler Cozy Mystery series. Naomi Hanley and her younger sister, Charlotte are on a vacation in Africa. Naomi saw a deal two weeks prior for an African safari and could not resist the opportunity for her dream vacation. What Naomi did not count on was the finding fellow vacationer, Dr. Higgins dead in his cabin. The death is ruled a terrible accident from a hyena attack, but Naomi has her doubts. She believes Dr. Higgins was murdered and sets out to find the killer. Sleuth on Safari is a unique cozy mystery with its traveling theme. A.R. Kennedy takes us to Africa with her detailed descriptions which allow the reader to visualize the scenes. I especially enjoyed the depictions of the scenery and the animals. I can tell the author has been to Africa from the scenes with the animals. They were very realistic. Naomi and Charlotte are your typical bickering sisters. Charlotte is a medical student who is prepared and always does right in their mother’s eyes while Nami works in customer service (I see nothing wrong with that), was ill prepared for the trip (did not pack the right items, read the materials or listen to the orientation), and tends to find herself in awkward situations. The mystery had multiple suspects along with good clues. I did not understand Naomi’s insistence on looking into the death. She seemed obsessed with searching for clues and asking questions (instead of relaxing and enjoying her vacation). I wondered if there was something in her past or if she is just plain curious. Naomi seemed determined to find the killer before they left the lodge. The reveal was a Mrs. Fletcher moment. I hope the author takes time to flesh out Naomi in the next book. I want to know more about her background and her life choices. Sleuth on Safari is a lighthearted cozy mystery with raging rhinos, splendiferous views, high pitched hyenas, elegant elephants, a frustrating sister and a surprise demise.