The Purloined Puzzle: A Puzzle Lady Mystery    by Parnell Hall Order:  USA  Can Minotaur, 2018 (2018) Hardcover, e-Book     Reviewed by Mary Ann Smyth Parnell Hall, author of The Purloined Puzzle: A Puzzle Lady Mystery has a keen sense of humor that pops up all the way through his latest offering. The plot isn't too shabby either. Hall must truly enjoy writing these mysteries. He has the knack of moving his characters here and there, positioning them to create and solve a mystery. Several crossword puzzles help in finding answers to several murders, while the door of the local jail swings both ways as those arrested are brought into the hoosegow and others are released, with an apology, from holding cells. A bloody knife, a newly purchased knife, and a very bloody handkerchief play important roles. If the crossword puzzles don't clear things up for the reader, a Sudoku puzzle might give a helping number. We are treated to witty dialogue between Cora, the puzzle lady, and her least favorite ex-husband, Melvin. She is serious while he spends his time with her trying to get back in her good graces. Ain't gonna happen. I look forward to the next Puzzle Lady mystery. Note: Opinions expressed in reviews and articles on this site are those of the author(s) and not necessarily those of BookLoons. Find more Mystery books on our Shelves or in our book Reviews