Tapped Out: a Jenny T. Partidge Dance Mystery

by: Natalie M. Roberts

Published by: Berkley Prime Crime

Reviewed by Kathy Perschmann

This second in the series after Tutu Deadly has Jenny Partridge helping out old flame and fellow dancer, Bill, with his annual Starmakers dance contest and workshop. They will be in Ogden, Utah, where Jenny’s dance studio is located, only a few days.

Jenny was going to enter two of her classes in the competition, with one of her best students performing a solo. She is desperate for the money, so she agrees to help, and promises the assistance of her overly dramatic gay teacher James. When Jenny goes to meet with Bill and his other teachers (two teachers have disappeared–the reason she and James are needed), she also meets his possessive, malicious girlfriend Bonnie.

Everything seems normal, but Jenny is a bit concerned about the missing teachers, and calls in her boyfriend, Detective Tate. As usual when Jenny gets involved, things get a bit crazy. She gets nasty phone calls, and her pink VW bug is blown up. Then Bill disappears after a drunken fight with Bonnie, the night before the contest! Tate is desperately trying to keep her safe, finally deciding to have her move in with him, which is a big boost for their stalled relationship.

Added to the mix is Sal, a runaway Mormon missionary who ONLY wants to dance, and who begs Jenny’s help in getting released from his commitment. More mayhem occurs at the contest and dance workshops. Jenny is the product of a Mormon and Catholic background, and the setting of Ogden, Utah, makes these books unusual and fun.

Author Roberts is a dance mom who is involved with her daughter’s dance studio, and writes about dance with knowledge and flair. Comparable to Evanovich and Crusie, this series is a combination of funny chick lit and cozy mystery.

I will definitely keep my eyes open for the 2008 installment, Pointe and Shoot.

Armchair Interviews says: Fun and funny cozy you’ll certainly enjoy.