What a lighthearted gem of a juggling act! In Anthony and Agatha award–winner Andrews's third bird adventure (Murder with Peacocks; Murder with Puffins), ornamental blacksmith Meg, who's been commissioned to make a dozen life-size day-glow flamingos (three of which grace the alluring dust jacket), devoted sidekick Michael as well as their close, extended families take part in a lovingly depicted re-creation of the October 1781 siege of Yorktown, complete with cannons, costumes and a crafts fair. Enter the villain, Roger Benson, a businessman who has promised to market a game designed by Meg's brother. Everyone, including Meg, has some quarrel with Benson, who eventually comes to bloody blows with one of the other blacksmiths. Later that night, Meg discovers Benson's body in the storage area of her shop, an ornate dagger, her masterpiece, prominently displayed in his back. The sheriff, his deputy and any number of Meg's friends and relatives are suspects, but her dad is determined to present himself as the killer. Meanwhile, Michael's imperious mother, who's found with Meg's cash box after it goes missing at the time of the murder, strives to prevent anachronisms (eyeglasses, cameras, etc.) from spoiling the battle reenactment. With her trademark witty dialogue and fine sense of the ridiculous, Andrews keeps all her balls in the air with skill and verve. Agents, Ellen Geiger and Anna Abreu at Curtis Brown.Regional author tour. (Oct. 15)
