Index to Murder

The search for purloined paintings leads a Washington librarian and her artist pal into danger in this charming cozy mystery.

“An enchanting series. . . . I love Miss Zukas mysteries!” —Carolyn Hart

“A loving send-up of the stereotype of the prim librarian.” —The New York Times

No one could be more orderly or organized than dedicated librarian Helma Zukas. No one could be more rash and raucous than avant-garde artist Ruth Winthrop. Yet the two women are best friends and a resourceful, ingenious, crime-solving team. So when two of Ruth’s latest paintings—each depicting an ex-lover who met a very untimely and mysterious end—are stolen, the amazing amateur detectives get to work.

But digging through Ruth’s romantic rendezvous turns up more than broken hearts. There’s an angry ex-wife, a jealous fellow artist, and a rampaging group of local tree-huggers. There’s trouble brewing in Bellehaven . . . and only Helma and Ruth can make certain that mayhem doesn’t lead to murder.