Shadow of a Butterfly: The Case of the Harmless Old Woman

A luxury residence in downtown Toronto. A group of artsy seniors. Caring staff. An idyllic scene? Or a setting for murder?

In her third Manziuk and Ryan mystery, J. A. Menzies once again delights readers with complex characters, tight plotting, and a satisfying conclusion.

Most of the residents of the 20th floor of Serenity Suites are enjoying their retirement. The famous Broadway actress has just married a much-younger musician. The best-selling author and his wife are going strong. The character actor still chooses the odd gig.

But not all is serene. The former host of a popular radio talk show fears his wife is slipping into dementia. The ballerina with a shady past is being evicted. At least one resident is facing a dreaded illness.

Most of the staff appear to be content, although Audra Limson, manager of the 20th floor, has learned to smile and remain outwardly calm in spite of the constant turmoil in her personal life.

When a harmless elderly woman is murdered in the common room, residents immediately wonder if a deluded mercy-killer thinks he or she is doing them a favour by dispatching them, and wonder if they’ll be next.

Homicide detectives Paul Manziuk and Jacqueline Ryan, themselves dealing with personal issues, try to allay the residents’ fears while following every rabbit trail that comes up. As they sort through half-truths and long-buried secrets, they realize that those with opportunity had no motive, and those with motive, no opportunity. They know they’re missing something, but what?

The Manziuk and Ryan Mysteries in order:

• Shaded Light: The Case of the Tactless Trophy Wife
• Glitter of Diamonds: The Case of the Reckless Radio Host
• Shadow of a Butterfly: The Case of the Harmless Old Woman

Short stories by J. A. Menzies

• “The Case of the Sneezing Accountant: A Manziuk and Ryan Short Story”
• “The Day Time Stood Still”
• “They Can’t Take That Away From Me”
• “Revenge So Sweet”