by Doward Wilson

Kate Carlisle’s cozy four-book Fixer-Upper Mystery series is brought to life on the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries television channel. Framed For Murder introduces us to Shannon Hughes who runs the family’s construction business which specializes in renovating the historic Victorian mansions found in Lighthouse Cove in Northern California.

Shannon finds herself distracted from her newest project involving a former investigative report who is now a famous crime author. Mac Sullivan has bought the historic lighthouse mansion, and he needs Shannon to put it into safe and livable condition. Shannon’s distraction comes from the death of her next door neighbor who is also her best friend’s uncle. The police are ruling it an accident, but Shannon has reservations and keeps looking into it. She finds that her neighbor’s previous involvement in finding and recovering the treasure of a lost Spanish ship may be the key to his death. When a second murder occurs, Shannon knows she and Mac are onto the truth. With the discovery of an earlier accident/murder and learning that a supposedly dead lawyer was actually alive and in Lighthouse Cove, the action picks up quickly. Sunken treasure, devious lawyers, and women who aren’t who they seem to be all come together in a stunning conclusion!

This movie is based on Kate Carlisle’s second book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery Series, This Old Homicide. Shannon is played by singer, songwriter, and now actress, Jewel. She is also a producer and is involved in every aspect of the production. This really shows in the smooth way the mystery plays out and how well the cast works together. Mac is played by Colin Ferguson who is well know for his many roles in both television series and movies. He really brings his investigative reporter/author to life, and his acting skills complement Jewel’s. The background scenery was beautiful, and all the sets were extremely well done.

This movie was one of the very best transitions from book to screen in the Hallmark’s Movies & Mysteries world. The biggest change was Shannon’s last name being changed from Hammer in the books to Hughes in the movie. The script, acting, scenery, and sets were all top notch, and this is a movie not to be missed by any mystery fan. I think fans of this Kate Carlisle series will be happy, and that it will introduce many new readers to her fun and entertaining series.

Check out the Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel to learn more and check out their schedule for more movies.

Doward Wilson is a retired and avid cozy, paranormal, and adventure reader who can’t say no to most books. He recently moved from Independence, Missouri to Gladbrook, Iowa. Located in Central Iowa, Gladbrook (population 900+) is small town, rural farming at its best.