Valentine’s Day doesn’t go as planned for Melanie Travis in Killer Cupid, the 29th book of Laurien Berenson’s Melanie Travis canine mystery series. The novel is isolated enough and doesn’t overtly mention the previous 28 books, making this a possible standalone read. 

When Melanie and her husband Sam are surprised with a Valentine’s weekend vacation by their sons to Berkshires Inn, they’re given the opportunity to try different couple’s activities, explore the scenic resort, and take a break from all of their usual obligations along with Melanie’s brother Frank and his wife, Bertie. However, things take a turn when a sudden murder occurs and Melanie finds herself in the middle of yet another mystery. As the local sheriffs begin their investigation, Melanie does the same—especially once the resort owner requests her help. But the inn employees are tight-lipped and several suspicious figures seem to have been involved somehow. 

The story was fairly easy to keep track of and the dogs were a cute addition as well. On the other hand, some readers felt that, especially compared to the other books in this series, the dogs disappointingly played a much smaller role in the story: only Melanie’s older Standard Poodle, Faith, accompanied the couples on their vacation. Other readers felt the opposite way. After 28 books, this seasonal story was a nice change in scenery, away from the dog shows and in a new, richly described setting surrounded by mountains. 

In the spirit of Valentine’s Day, it’s impossible to ignore the connection between the characters. Melanie’s mystery didn’t completely detract from the original purpose of the vacation and from shopping to dinner dates, the couples were able to relax and spend time together. The elements of this story were well-balanced, and although it featured somewhat childish exchanges between Melanie and her brother Frank, the character relationships as well as the fact that the mystery wasn’t as much of a thriller made it an easier read. 

Melanie’s adventure was well-paced and all the secrets she exposed made it clear that there was more to the situation than anyone might have fully realized. Despite the inn’s secrets, they were inevitably put to rest with a satisfying, suspenseful resolution. 

Killer Cupid is an easy read and Melanie and her Valentine’s Day weekend could be just the story for readers looking for a seasonal cozy mystery with dogs, winter activities, and an intriguing mystery.