In 1948 eight murders of American veterans is something to take seriously, and the murder weapon, a German bicycle chain, is the biggest clue Jack Carter has to go on. But when the ninth murder victim is found clutching a paper bag containing a pickle, things begin to change. Jack finds himself increasingly drawn to his co-worker, Vicky. Her cinnamon scented perfume fills him with thoughts that aren’t entirely professional, but he’s plagued with lingering thoughts of his ex-wife Marilyn. The pickles that begin to show up at murder scenes remind him of her and her time spent in the kitchen, pickling vegetables and fruits. Between solving murders and thoughts of women, Jack Carter has a lot on his plate—besides pickles.

The Pickle My Little Friend is a fun story. A sweet little murder mystery, it has some unusual twists and turns. The plot kept me interested and the old-fashioned references were entertaining. Jack’s thoughts are clearly brought to light and that lets the reader get right inside his head. I felt as if I accompanied him on his stakeout at Vicky’s apartment. I could almost see the lighted window as he watched her, nearly hear her voice as she tried to explain her circumstances to him. This is a well written story, one that is very amusing. I believe I won’t be able to look at a pickle again without smiling!

Reviewed by: Marlene