But all of that changed yesterday, when I plucked a book off of my out of control TBR shelf (shelves, as there is way more than one!)! I can't believe I left this one unread for so long!
Getting Old Is Murder
by Rita Lakin
is the first mystery in the "Gladdy Gold" mystery series. One word: HYSTERICAL! I am so glad I picked this one off my TBR! What was I waiting for? Talk about a light and funny summertime mystery!Gladys (Gladdy) Gold is happily retired, having moved from New York City to southern Florida to be near her sister Evvie Markowitz. They live in Lanai Gardens, a retirement community in Fort Lauderdale, along with their other senior friends, most of whom are Jewish. The group of gals live a relaxing life - between water aerobics in Lanai Gardens' pool, and Canasta games in the girls' dining rooms, these ladies are busy!. But when not one, but two of their own are found dead of "apparent" heart attacks, Gladdy and her "Gladiators" - as they have nicknamed themselves - deviate from their predictable schedules and decide to go on the prowl to figure out who would be killing sweet little old Jewish ladies.
In some of my reviews I have mentioned that when I really get into a book and enjoy it, I can picture in my mind who would play the characters should the book be made into a series or a movie. From page one, I thought to myself that Gladdy is Bea Arthur, and her "Gladiators" round out the rest of The Golden Girls! Gladdy is a strong character who is the leader by default of her little group.
The "Jewish" factor adds real comic relief. I guess to some it could seem stereotypical (you know... the old stereotype that old Jewish people move to Florida to retire). But here, Rita Lakin makes it funny.... almost over the top with the "Jewish-ness". Sprinkled throughout are Yiddish words and phrases uttered by the ladies - all of which are included in "Gladdy's Glossary" in the front of the book. For example, the words "meshugeneh", "oy", and "yenta" are used multiple times. It's funny! There's nothing better than a group of little old Jewish yentas kibitzing about everybody else's business!
Bottom line: this was a great mystery! It had me guessing til the end! I actually thought I had it figured out! But, alas... I was wrong... and it was a pleasantly surprising twist.
These old folks are hysterical. Between schmearing cream cheese on their ever-present bagels and lining up for early-bird specials, there's no shortage of old lady humor.
You will laugh your way through this one, all the while cheering on Gladdy and her girls!
This was an easy, breezy summer read that took me less than a day to devour while lounging by the pool. I can't wait to get the next in the series: Getting Old Is The Best Revenge
. If you want light and funny while trying to solve a classic whodunnit, I would definitely suggest you get acquainted with Gladdy and the girls. You will not be disappointed.
