3.5 stars

All Signs Point to Murder
A Zodiac Mystery #2
Connie di Marco
Midnight Ink, August 2017
ISBN 978-0-7387-5107-8
Trade Paperback

From the publisher—

Rob Ramer was the perfect husband until he committed the ultimate family faux pas — he shot his sister-in-law to death. Believing himself under attack by an intruder in his home, he fired back. But when evidence is discovered that Rob’s wife, Brooke, was plotting his murder, Brooke is charged with conspiracy in her sister’s death. Geneva, a third sister, is desperate for answers and seeks the help of her friend, San Francisco astrologer Julia Bonatti. Geneva’s lost one sister and now it seems she’ll lose the other. Was this a murder plot or just a terrible accident? Julia vows to find the answer in the stars.

Generally speaking, I like cozies but I find some of them overly simplistic and too often one is just like the next—different occupation but the same romance, the same reasons for sleuthing when the police haven’t even had a chance to do their jobs. Still, they can be a nice change from the grittier, perhaps more violent crime fiction I usually choose.

All Signs Point to Murder is a good blend of types and I appreciate that. The initial crime is interesting because of the circumstances and the people involved and, while I’m not a true believer in astrology, I understand why it appeals to so many and why Geneva turns to Julia for help. Perhaps someone who reads the stars, and does it well, could see possibilities others might not. As it turns out, Julia does begin to discover things that lead to more questions and, eventually, to answers.

While I enjoyed this book, I do think the author missed a golden opportunity. Readers like me who don’t understand much about astrology are potential sponges for learning but there’s very little explanation here, mostly just statements. Because of that, I skimmed a fair amount and gave my attention to solving the puzzle which, by the way, was not all that easy; I figured out the simple who early on but not the broader who or the why so there was plenty for me to think about.

Besides crafting an intriguing cozy with an edge, Ms. di Marco also has a knack for characters and I found I especially liked Cheryl and Gale as well as Julia and won’t mind spending more time with them in the future.

Reviewed by Lelia Taylor, August 2017.

ALL SIGNS POINT TO MURDER is the second book in the Zodiac Mystery series by Connie Di Marco but it’s the first book I’ve tried from this author. I was intrigued by this series because of its premise. I’m really into astrology and stuff like that so when I saw that there was a Mystery series that centers around that, I knew I had to give it a try.

Although I didn’t read the first book before this, I found it incredibly easy to fall into this series. The world is great, the characters are fun, and I really liked the mystery as well. This one involves a wedding that has gone wrong and although I don’t usually like books that center around a wedding, this one was bearable for me. I think this was mainly due to the heroine. Julia is really fun. I love her personality and didn’t find her amateur sleuth ways to be annoying like some heroines can be.

My one complaint about this book is the writing. It’s very easy to read and it probably won’t take you very long to get through it. However, I do wish there was a little more variation when it came to the description and dialogue. The author the same sentence structure a lot on one page so when you’re reading it, it can feel a little monotonous. It’s a lot of Geneva this and Geneva that… I just wished there was more eloquent sentence structure. But if you’re looking for a straight-forward, simple read, then this is a good one to try. I would also recommend this to readers who may have never tried the Mystery genre before. Di Marco’s writing would be an easy path into the genre.

Book two in the Zodiac Mystery series. Julia is gearing up to be a bridesmaid in her friend Geneva's wedding despite the fact that all of the astrological signs point to the wedding being a very bad idea. As the wedding gets started things start happening one after another with a missing sister of the bride (who is also a bridesmaid) before the ceremony, an unconscious wedding planner after wards, and a deadly shooting that takes place in the middle of the night. Of course this all needs to be investigated to figure out how it all fits together which is exactly what Julia sets out to do with some astrological help along the way as she compiles everyone's charts. Overall this is a really good cozy mystery that keeps the reader hooked until they find out what actually happened. Adding the astrology angle adds just the right touch of whimsy to the mix to make the story still fun even if it is all about a murder. The characters are well developed by this point and easy to get attached. I recommend this to fans of cozy mysteries and since I really enjoyed it I give it 4/5 stars.

All Signs Point to Murder by Connie di Marco is the second novel in A Zodiac Mystery series. Julia Bonatti is a bridesmaid in her friend, Geneva Leary’s wedding. The wedding is about to start, but no one can find Moira, Geneva’s sister. The wedding proceeds without the missing bridesmaid and goes off without a hitch. After the ceremony, Moira is found collapsed at the bottom of a set of stairs. She claims she was not drunk this time (sound suspicious). During the dancing, Sally Stark, the wedding planner, collapses on the dance floor. Moira states it was supposed to be her. Geneva’s marriage is starting off with a bang. Julia is sleeping at the Brooke Leary Ramer’s house when she hears shots ring out. She heads downstairs and Rob Ramer enters the house from the garage. Rob states he shot an intruder. Julia enters the garage and finds a hooded figure on the floor—it is Moira. Moira dies before reaching the hospital. Geneva asks Julia to investigate Moira’s death. Someone, though, does not appreciate Julia’s meddling. Julia uses her astrological knowledge to help her uncover the facts and determine what happened to Moira. Will the killer let her share her knowledge with the police or will Julia end up the next victim?

All Signs Point to Murder may be the second book in A Zodiac Mystery series, but it can be read alone. All Signs Point to Murder is easy to read except for the astrological sections. The information provided is not written in a way for lay people to understand (the terms are not explained). It was gobbledygook to me. I do, though, like that Julia uses astrological information to solve crimes. It is unique. I just wish it was written in a way that was easier to understand (for people not familiar with astrology). The mystery is intriguing and slightly complex. Unfortunately, I identified the guilty parties (and the victim) before Moira was pronounced dead. I believe many readers, though, will be surprised. The reason why Moira was killed is what kept me reading. My rating for All Signs Point to Murder is 3 out of 5 stars. I do feel that the author included too much detail. Julia hunting for parking spots, walking instead of driving to avoid hunting for a parking spot (it must be difficult to park in San Francisco), the cost of parking in San Francisco, looking through each item in Moira’s apartment, the size of the goose egg on her head, etc. It was nice to see Cheryl (from The Madness to Mercury) get a happy outcome. Will I read the next book in A Zodiac Mystery series? I am undecided. It will depend on the mystery in the next installment.

This is a great book with a wonderful story and well developed characters. The story flowed very well and was very enjoyable. This book will keep you reading long into the night and you will not want to put this book down until you finish. This was such a great read and full of surprises. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader’s copy of this book. The free book held no determination on my personal review.

would keep you guessing, wondering, questioning

If you've been following me since my the Blacksheep Project days, you'll know that I LOVE cozy mysteries just for the heck of it. Okay, generally because they are always such a fun read and at the same time thrilling. All Signs Point to Murder deals with astrology and I've never read anything like this! I've read cozy mysteries that involves a baker and cafe owner, lingerie store owner, and even historical mysteries which were totally enjoyable reads. An astrologer is obviously an amazing addition to this short list.

Julia Bonatti is a bridesmaid to her friend's wedding. However, on the evening of the wedding, the bride's sister was found dead on arrival. Her brother-in-law claims he accidentally shot her thinking she was somebody else but was there really someone else in the scene when he 'accidentally' shot her?

All Signs Point to Murder is the second book in the Zodiac Mystery and I've never read the first book but I still ended up enjoying this one. It's written in such a way that allows you to still be there and get to know Julia even though you've never read the first book. Also, reading about an astrologer is such a great breather since I've never read one before (and honestly, it's been so long since my last cozy mystery read).

Mystery-wise, this book is equally intriguing and thrilling. It kept me guessing. It's really just the greatest past in the mystery, yeah? One thing you'll be pointing your fingers to this character and next thing you know you're pointing to another and next thing, you're all confused. That's just me while reading this book which is totally a great thing! You don't get to read a lot of mystery and still get those wth-i'm-confused moments.

OVERALL, All Signs Point to Murder is a fast-paced and thrilling cozy mystery that features an astrologer main character. It would keep you guessing and completely intrigued until the end.

REVIEW SCHED: 08-07-17

I really enjoyed the first book in this series about astrologer Julia Bonatti but I was not prepared for just how much I was going to enjoy the second book! di Marco is back strong with this new book about some crazy dysfunctional family dynamics and the astrologer who ends up smack in the middle of the drama.

The mystery was solid and while I had some guesses at how it would end up there were still a few points that were definitely a surprise which is always a lot of fun for this regular mystery reader. As well I felt like Julia's character was fleshed out a lot more without taking the focus off the mystery. I really enjoyed getting to know her and spend a few hours in her world. She has some interesting friends! Watching her do the astrology readings was really entertaining and made me wish she was real so I could send my birth information to her! I really enjoy watching an amateur sleuth do a little bit of work in their day job and di Marco did a fantastic job of using Julia's occupation to further the mystery and let the readers get to know the characters a little better.

If you haven't read the first book in this series I don't think you'd have any trouble jumping in right here. I've been in a little bit of a reading rut this summer and this book was really the bit of fun I needed to get me back on track. If you're looking for a fast paced cozy mystery with a likable amateur sleuth and a well done mystery don't pass this one up!

Please see link below.

All Signs Point to Murder is the second book in Connie di Marco’s Zodiac Mystery series. It is a standalone read. I will admit that the astrology aspect of the book throws me off. I just can’t wrap my head around it. But ultimately that's just a small part of the overall story.

Over the past couple of years, Julia Bonatti’s life has changed dramatically. She lost the love of her life in a hit and run accident and has had to pick herself back up. While she isn’t ready to venture back into the dating pool, she is ever so slowly putting the past behind her. Losing Michael changed the trajectory of Julia’s life. She is now a San Francisco based astrologer, giving private readings to people and writing a column for the Chronicle.

All Signs Point to Murder finds Julia being a bridesmaid in her college friend Geneva Leary’s wedding. Before the wedding, things get a little rocky when the bride’s younger sister disappears and then is found drunk. The wedding proceeds, but tragedy is to come. Geneva’s sister is shot and killed. Was this just a tragic accident or was Moira’s past and present finally catching up with her?

Moira, the youngest of the Learys, had several issues and was of questionable character. Not wanting the police to just put the investigation on the back burner, Geneva asks Julia to look into Moira’s life and make sure that there aren’t any surprises that the family doesn’t know about. Julia turns to her charts and starts an investigation into the life of Moira. Her investigations reveal more questions than answers and put Julia’s life in jeopardy several times.

Connie di Marco has weaved together a truly good murder mystery. She provided plenty of little red herrings to have you questioning everyone involved. In the end, the reveal was surprising and the fallout from Julia’s investigation huge. I’m looking forward to the next book in this series. I’m curious to see how Julia’s life continues to evolve.

Being a good friend shouldn’t be cause for murder.

I’ve always thought being helpful was good but after reading this second Zodiac Mystery, I’m not so sure anymore! Julia is a great character. She’s a good friend who puts herself out there for her friends and clients. Unfortunately, for the second time, it doesn’t lead to a safe and peaceful life for her.

All Signs Point to Murder is a really good book. I enjoyed the characters, even when I didn’t like them or what was happening they were realistic. The mystery was plausible and interesting. Plus, Julia ended up in some tight spots that were a bit tense.

ALL SIGNS POINT TO MURDER by Connie di Marco
The Second Zodiac Mystery

Geneva Leary was there for Julia Bonatti when Julia's world came crashing down upon the death of her fiance. Now Julia is a bridesmaid at Geneva's wedding. The happy day is not quite so happy as the bride's youngest ne'er do well sister, Moira, disappears and misses the ceremony, only to be found passed out later. The wedding consultant collapses during the reception and angry words are spoken by more than one family member. Julia spends the night at the family home only to be woken by shots fired. Rob, Geneva's brother-in-law, has shot who he thought was an intruder, but actually is Moira. Did Moira truly shoot first? Was someone else in the garage? Julia strives to help as the family falls apart. Is the answer in the stars?

Connie di Marco delves into dysfunctional families, friendships, and Julia's past in her second Zodiac mystery. ALL SIGNS POINT TO MURDER falls into the cozy realm, whereas her first book in the series was distinctly darker and not a cozy in my book. While lighter in style, ALL SIGNS POINT TO MURDER has a few heart stopping, thriller moments, and great depth in its subject matter, characterization, and writing.

ALL SIGNS POINT TO MURDER is a complex mystery with a major twist! I love the astrological aspect to the series. Julia not only works as a professional astrologer, but shows how the stars can impact every day life as well as major events and even personalities. I wish I could meet up with Julia, have a drink, and have her look at my chart.

All Signs Point to Murder: A Zodiac Mystery
By Connie di Marco
Midnight Ink
August 8, 2017

Review by Cynthia Chow

Being a best friend means being supportive through thick and thin, especially when called upon to be a bridesmaid. Julia Elizabeth Bonatti has been helping her college best friend Geneva Leary prepare for her wedding in Sonoma, in spite of the frantic demands of the wedding planner and the disappearance of the bride’s sister. Moira Leary does eventually appear - intoxicated and a bit worse for wear- but it is the coordinator Sally Stark who collapses after the ceremony. While the celebrations continue, so do the arguments and confrontations, eventually leading to shots ringing out in the middle of the night. Geneva’s brother-in-law Rob Ramer mistakenly shot at what he believed was an intruder, and in the confusion they realize that the victim was in actuality Moira. Further perplexing is that Moira was shot not by Rob’s gun, but by the one owned by the new groom, David.

Julia pursued the study of astrology following the fatal hit-and-run of her fiancé Michael, desperately searching for clues or signs she had missed that would explain his death. Now a professional astrologer, Julia provides advice through a newspaper column as Zodia. Geneva’s despair over her new husband’s implication in the death of her sister stirs up all of Julia’s sympathies, causing her to engage both in astrological and more practical investigations. Moira had issues with both substance abuse and affairs, and her astrological chart made it clear that her life had been spinning out of control.

The second in a series uses astrology to supplement very practical investigations. Through the study of birthdates and her charts, Julia is granted insight into people’s personalities and times of crisis, as well as their source of conflict. While astrology still hasn’t given her the answers she seeks for explanations and indicators leading up to her fiancé’s death, it has allowed her to comfort and guide others. Helping a friend move past a traumatic divorce further reveals just how committed Julia is to those she cares for, especially when it stirs up so many emotions over Michael. The author of cozy mysteries written as Connie Archer, di Marco continues to craft novels that balance light-hearted moments between characters with realistic trauma. The future looks promising for Julia even as she continues to look for answers, as he is supported by her good friends and guided by the stars.

Julia Bonatti finds herself as a bridesmaid at her friend Geneva’s wedding, but she’s not happy with the astrological signs hanging over the big day. She’s not about to put a damper on her friend’s happiness. However, when murder strikes at the reception, things take a huge turn for the worst.

Geneva is beyond distressed that something like this could happen at her wedding. Her whole family is stunned and grief-stricken. Geneva begs Julia to help find the answers and bring peace of mind to her family. It's especially important since most of her family are prime suspects, including her new husband.

As Julia investigates, she begins to uncover truths Geneva might not want to hear about her family. She, also, finds herself in some serious danger of her own.

This is the second book in the series. I loved the first one, but this one was even better. It gives the reader more insight to Julia and her group of friends. Julia’s a tough one and doesn’t give up, regardless of the risks to her own life. While it seems she’s taking too many chances, it’s also understandable that she wants to help her friend.

The author gives us many suspects. She keeps readers on their toes trying to figure this one out. I changed my mind with each page, but was still surprised at the ending. I didn’t see that coming, although maybe I should have. All I know is that it made for a great mystery. This fast-paced novel kept me intrigued to the end. I’m looking forward to more books in this exciting series.

This was an interesting book, but I wish it did a better job of explaining the astrology parts. Since astrology and the mystery are tied together, I felt that the lack of explanation detracted from it. The characters were definitely interesting, and I'm looking forward to getting to know them better.

I snatched this one up even though I had mixed feelings about the first book in this series. (The mystery element in that one was great, but the heroine rubbed me the wrong way.) I really warmed up to Julia in this second book. When her friend's wedding ends in murder, Julia is anxious to help. The mystery is complicated and fills most of the book, but I was intrigued by Julia's past and definitely want to find out more about it. I'm never going to be a believer in astrology, but it's sure intriguing to read about.

All Signs Point to Murder is the next installment in Connie di Marco’s Zodiac Mystery series. The plot is unique and the author did a great job taking the reader on a rollercoaster. The mystery was set up so well that it was impossible to do much more than speculate on the culprit. Every speculation I did turned out to be 100% incorrect once I got to the end of the story. I loved the sheer amount of suspense written in-between the pages.

The twists and turns and additional foul play had my head spinning as I desperately tried to piece things together. I enjoyed at the ebb and flow of the book and how the author tied everything together. The multi-faceted story kept me engaged and interested throughout the entire book. The deaths, family secrets, criminal enterprise, red herrings and fast pace had me devouring the book every chance I could.

The world building and character development continued on strong in book 2. I was able to relate better to Julia (I had a hard time with that in book 1). Julia showed emotions that were easily transferred to me and I felt that she was written as a stronger cozy mystery heroine than other cozies I’ve read. Did she do stupid things? Yeah, a couple but we aren’t perfect and I don’t expect book characters to be without flaws.

I looked forward to my reading time with All Signs Point to Murder. As with the first book, there is a lot of astrology but I found it more interesting in book 2. Bravo to Ms. di Marco for plotting out and executing a superb cozy mystery.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC.

After attending her old friend Geneva’s wedding, Julia becomes embroiled in a terrible family tragedy. Geneva’s younger sister is killed the night of the wedding, and her brother-in-law may be to blame. Was it an accident, or something more sinister? Julia is determined to find out before the strain of the situation tears her friend’s family apart. Julia uses both her brain and her astrological charts to help her track down a killer. Full of suspects and secrets, All Signs Point to Murder is a quick-paced, suspenseful, and entertaining mystery.

NOTE: I was provided with a free copy of this book by Netgalley. All thoughts or opinions expressed are my own.

This is the second in the series and I have always been fascinated by astrology and houses and all that, but I still don't understand how they read the charts with what planet is in what house and if it is ascending or descending, but it is really intriguing to read how they read those charts.

I feel like a broken record when I say that I had no clue who the killer was...because it seems like I say that a lot lately! Either the authors are getting better at hiding those clues and throwing out red herrings, or my deductive skills aren't up to snuff. I truly did not suspect this person at all and it was a huge surprise to me.

I think there Julia's character is growing and her circle of friends is increasing so that there are more characters for her to interact with and have the personal side. I thought it was interesting that her deceased fiance's mother played a small role that helped her decipher who the killer was...but the woman is not likable and hopefully we don't see her much in future books.

Overall a very enjoyable cozy!