ECONOGAL

Prolific writer Leslie Meier introduces new characters and a new series in A Matter of Pedigree. Set in Providence, Rhode Island, the series introduces readers to the Capobianco family. The book revolves around Frank and Carole and their dog Poopsie. Of course, Poopsie is just a nickname because she has uhm, stomach issues.

Long a working-class contractor, Frank strikes it rich with the invention of a fancy toilet. Then, denied a place in a snooty condo by a stuffed shirt, Frank “threatens” to kill Hosea Browne. Months later Browne turns up dead, and Frank is arrested.

Now Carole and Poopsie are tasked with clearing his name.

Three generations of Capobianco’s are introduced in the novel. Frank and Carole are the sandwich generation. Big Frank and Mom are Frank’s parents (and very close to Carole). Connie, a lawyer, and Frank-O, a student artist are the younger generation. Eventually, Polly, Carole’s mother, arrives on the scene as well. All feature in A Matter of Pedigree.

Additionally, residents of the original condo as well as the apartments where Frank and Carole ended up, take part in the story. All fall under Carole and Mom’s investigative eyes. Of course, Poopsie steals the role of heroine.

Reading this new series reminded me of reading Meier’s first Lucy Stone mystery decades ago. There is always a slow pace when introducing an entire batch of characters. The Capobianco’s are original characters and grow on the reader as the book develops. Perhaps the early stereotyping served to create a difference between the two series’ heroines. If not, Carole could become a very shallow main character.

Kudos to Leslie Meier for taking a leap and introducing a new series. Dog lovers will adore Poopsie. Long time fans of Lucy Stone may have a difficult time adjusting to a new and totally different character in Carole Capobianco. I encourage those fans to find a copy at their local library. The family as a whole is quite charming. A Matter of Pedigree is a pleasant afternoon read.