Christin Brecher

photographer, photographs, threats, murder, family-drama, family-dynamics, famous-persons, family, romantic, amateur-sleuth, FBI, cozy-mystery, NYC, art-crimes, situational-humor, witty, suspense*****

Welcome to the high stress world of celebrity NYC. Liv Spyer is a photographer for her friend's agency and her boyfriend Harry is an Art Crimes Investigator for a government agency. Things are not optimal for either of them at the moment. Harry's quarry is a real chameleon, and Liv's assignment is becoming more unpleasant by the day. Especially when she observes the murder of the megastar's sister, can't prove it, no one wants the cops involved, and she is threatened. But Harry believes her and things change. The publisher's blurb is exceptional, so no need to repeat or do spoilers. Great read with engaging characters, unusual twists, and awesome red herrings.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!… (mere)

Photo Finished by Christin Brecher is the debut of A Snapshot of NYC Mysteries. Liv Spyers has just opened a photography studio in New York City under her grandparents locksmithing store. Liv gets a big break when photographer Regina Montague comes needing a key. Liv overhears Regina complaining about a photographer who quit at the last minute. Liv gets hired to take photographs at the Holiday Debutante Ball. Unfortunately, the evening ends with billionaire Charles Archibald dead and Regina the prime suspect. Liv does not believe that Regina killed Charles despite how it looked at the time. Liv uses her keen eye for detail to help her focus in on the killer. Photo Finished is a cute story. Liv Spyers is an acquired taste (she grows on you). We get to learn more about Liv as the story progresses. Also, Liv’s personality comes alive as we delve deeper into the story. I like her lively and friendly Italian family. Her grandmother is a dear. The mystery was interesting. It was complex in some ways yet simple in another. There are a number of suspects who were present at the ball. Liv actively investigates the whodunit. She asked questions, looks over her photographs, and searched for clues. I enjoyed the tension filled reveal. I like how everything tied together (the clues are there throughout the book, but the trick is to spot them). Liv had help from her new friend, Harry. There is a smidgeon of romance in the story. I am glad that the author kept it to a minimum in this first installment. We get to meet some other interesting characters that include Bernie and Manjeet. There is mild foul language (it was kept to a minimum). The author did a good job at setting the stage in Photo Finished. It will be interesting to see what Liv stumbles into next time. Photo Finished is a snappy whodunit with a lost camera case, a big break, a clothing calamity, the body of a billionaire, a fixated detective, a helpful Harry, and a photo finish.… (mere)