
Kathy Branfield
4.5 stars. In Case of Emergency by E.G. Scott is a fast-paced domestic mystery. Charlotte Knopler is former neurosurgeon turned acupuncturist. She and her best friend, Rachel Sherman, share office space but due to Charlotte’s past, business is a not exactly booming. But they remain hopeful things will turn around for them soon. However, things are not looking up after Charlotte becomes the main suspect in the death of a woman she does not know. With Detectives Silverstri and Wolcott closing in on making an arrest, will Charlotte figure out who is behind the puzzling murder? Charlotte’s neurosurgery career ended in tragedy and she is still trying to make peace with herself. She has a difficult relationship with her mother who is one of the few people who have stood by her in recent years. Charlotte is a bit concerned about her friendship with Rachel as she senses her best friend is a little distant and distracted. She believes part of the problem between them is Rachel’s distrust of Charlotte’s boyfriend, Peter Stanton. Charlotte is feeling a little uneasy about their relationship as well since she has not heard from Peter in quite some time. But she ties to remain optimistic since his job frequently requires radio silence when he is working on a case. Luckily, Rachel has an online support group who never fail to bolster her spirits. With little information to go on except for an “in case of emergency” card, Detective Silvestri and Wolcott are confident Charlotte will identify the deceased woman at the heart of their newest case. Surprised by her denial she knows the woman, they are shocked at the cause of death. Once they uncover the truth about the victim’s identity, Silvestri and Wolcott are more convinced than ever that Charlotte is their killer. But will they find the evidence they need to arrest her? Alternating between three distinct points of view, In Case of Emergency is an unputdownable mystery with a clever storyline and likable characters. Despite her life experiences, Charlotte is a little naive but easy to empathize with as she tries to remain upbeat and positive. Rachel is equally easy to like but what is she keeping from her best friend? Silvestri and Wolcott are tenacious as they doggedly work their investigation. Through a series of sly misdirects and devious red herrings, E.G. Scott brings this twist-filled domestic mystery to a breathless conclusion. I absolutely loved and highly recommend this exceptional mystery to fans of the genre. I received a complimentary copy for review.