Eileen Trongone

It was a pleasure to read P is for Pluto. This is the third book in the Molly Marbles Mystery Series, and is the sequel to Sherlock Mars. The book cover itself evokes a sense of play with science fiction, humor, and mystery. The main characters are Molly, Jersey, and Trenton who reprise their roles as in the two previous series The setting is Pluto where Molly`s Bistro, a five-galaxy restaurant, has been chosen by Interplanetary Foods to open another one on Pluto. However, the opening is delayed because Herb Tarragon, their chef, is murdered. The protagonist, Molly, an amateur sleuth, and her two friends, Jersey and Trenton, go to great lengths to investigate the murder themselves because the Pluto police are inept. The book has all the elements of an over-the-top science fiction story. It is futuristic in style, complete with androids, clones, interplanetary travel, and advanced technology. However, Jackie Kingon wrote this delightfully humorous science fiction story with cleverly interspersed plays on words and puns which could easily make readers laugh out loud! It takes a special and creative mind, like Jackie Kingon, to combine science fiction, mystery, and food in one story. Molly is a foodie. Her love of chocolate is a theme throughout. Outlandish foods rebound throughout the story, such as moonburgers on Saturn ring potatoes or potons which is a combination of onions and potatoes. In her quest to solve the mystery, Molly finds herself in some precarious situations throughout as she is determined to find the whodundit. Molly is not a daredevil. She is actually fearful and anxious when in danger. It is surprising and fun to read how resilient she can It be in order to get through extraordinary situations. P is for Pluto is a hilarious, tongue-in-cheek, and wildly creative book, with innovative and entertaining characters.