Book Review: Murder On Pointe by C.S. McDonald

Book Details

Book Title:  Murder on Pointe: A Fiona Quinn Mystery #1
Author:  C.S. McDonald
​Category:  YA Fiction, 219 pages
Genre:  Cozy Mystery
Publisher:  McWriter Books
Release date:  Jul 19, 2016
Content Rating:  G (The Fiona Quinn Mysteries are for everyone–adults love the books and they are appropriate for teens and tweens too!)

Book Description

Fiona can’t wait to attend the performance of Coppelia at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh. Her old friend, Silja Ramsay, is dancing the principal role. They have dinner after the show, but when they return Pittsburgh Ballet Theater is down one dancer! Ballerina, Alexis Cartwright, has been found dead in the dressing room. Is this murder a result of hot tempers among the cast members? Or is it a random act of violence? Will there be more murders? Homicide Detective Nathan Landry isn’t taking any chances. After finding out Fiona has a strong background in ballet, he recruits her to go undercover among the cast of Coppelia. Can Fiona help catch a killer, or will she be the next victim?

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Why Should You Read This?

Murder on Pointe by C.S. McDonald is a thrilling mystery novel that follows Fiona Quinn, a professional ballerina turned private investigator. When her friend, another ballerina, is found dead, Fiona is determined to find the killer and clear her friend’s name. The book is set against the backdrop of the ballet world, with the characters’ passion for dance adding an intriguing layer to the story.

The author, C.S. McDonald, has created a cast of characters that are both diverse and engaging. Fiona Quinn is a strong and determined protagonist, who uses her background in dance to her advantage when solving the case. The other characters, including Fiona’s friends and fellow dancers, are well-developed and add depth to the story.

The plot of the book is well-crafted, with twists and turns that keep the reader guessing until the very end. The investigation is thorough, and the author provides plenty of clues for the reader to try and solve the mystery themselves. The pacing of the book is also well-done, with a perfect balance of action, suspense, and character development.

One of the standout features of the book is the author’s attention to detail in describing the ballet world. McDonald’s love for the artform shines through, and the reader is transported into the world of tutus, pointe shoes, and pirouettes. The author’s knowledge of dance adds authenticity to the story, and it is clear that a lot of research went into the writing of the book.

Overall, Murder on Pointe is a captivating mystery novel that will keep readers engaged from beginning to end. With well-developed characters, a well-crafted plot, and a unique setting, this book is a must-read for fans of the mystery genre, as well as those with an interest in ballet. C.S. McDonald has created a series with great potential and this first book sets the tone perfectly.