Release Date: February 1, 2022

Cricket Crosby seems to have an idyllic southern lifestyle – a wonderful daughter, a loving and well-respected husband, a successful antique business, and, as with most close-knit southern towns, an efficient rumor circuit. However, when idle gossip turns to Cricket’s own husband having an affair, she soon discovers some rumors are based in truth and must act fast to untangle a web of lies and discover the truth.

Cricket’s assistant Ruby comes from the other side of town and has had anything but a country club upbringing. An ex-con with a complicated family, Ruby’s job at Cricket’s store is just what she needs to turn her life around when she discovers a talent for deconstructing vintage couture into modern, elegant pieces. When Cricket comes to her with news of her life falling apart, Ruby knows exactly how to start patching the case together. The two women may have different backgrounds, but they discover a deep bond of friendship as they investigate the husband’s affair and uncover layers of deceit and shady business. 

Deconstructed by Liz Talley is a book full of quick wit, secretive sleuthing, fabulous dresses, and two women coming together to start over and reinvent themselves. I enjoyed the unlikely friendship between Cricket and Ruby as well as their acceptance of the unexpected turns life can take.