cover image Pretty Guilty Women

Pretty Guilty Women

Gina LaManna. Sourcebooks Landmark, $25.99 (336p) ISBN 978-1-4926-9406-9

In this cleverly plotted mystery from LaManna (Sprinkled), a wedding weekend at the glamorous Serenity Spa and Resort on the California coast promises a much needed getaway for three college pals of the bride, but frazzled mom Ginger Adler isn’t looking forward to seeing former best friend Emily Brown after a college betrayal; Emily drowns the fallout of a devastating loss in booze; and the boyfriend of wildly successful and beautiful lawyer Kate Cross has left her at the front desk. While catching up and kvetching over plenty of champagne, the three meet 68-year-old Lulu Franc, the groom’s aunt, who’s afraid her fifth husband is having an affair. When a man is found dead, Ginger, Emily, Kate, and Lulu each confess to his murder. Police interview transcripts with the suspects, bride, and resort staff reveal lots of juicy details, and it’s clear that each woman has something to hide. LaManna’s women are flawed and relatable, and oodles of drama keep the pages turning all the way to a genuinely surprising final twist. This is the perfect summer beach read. Agent: Jenny Bent, Bent Agency. (Sept.)