The Grandmother Plot by Caroline B. Cooney

Poisoned Pen Press, 288 pages, $16.99

Yes, this book is by THAT Caroline B. Cooney, the author of “The Face on the Milk Carton.”

Author Cooney has created a cozy mystery with some outstanding parts and some misfires. She deftly depicts the sadness of people dealing with loved ones who have dementia, of having them in assisted care, of being forgotten by them as they wander in the haze of their dementia.

Cooney has also created some really interesting characters. Laura is a musician. She has a few pianos, a pipe organ, and smashed brass (who knew there was such a thing) in her collection. She also has a beloved aunt in memory care. Laura is no spring chicken herself, so it is surprising how avidly she involves herself in solving the murder of her aunt’s next-door neighbor at the facility.

Freddy is a dreamer, a toker, a midnight smoker, a young felon-in-the-making, but also a sweet, air-headed young man. He makes glass beads and bongs for a “living.” His grandmother provided stability for him and his sisters when they were young, so he couldn’t refuse when he became the only one able to take care of her. When it became too hard to care for her at home by himself, Freddy placed her in the same facility as Laura’s aunt. He visits regularly and has bonded with Laura over the difficulties of having loved ones lost to the world they once knew.

Laura feels real and warm. Even Freddy, who is often lost in a pot haze, has substance. He also has become entangled in some shady dealings because of his impulsive nature (and because he is stoned most of the time). Laura, on the other hand, is a little quirky but very down-to-earth. They form a loose alliance to figure out what is going on at the care facility. Are their relatives safe? Did a staff member kill a patient? Or has Freddy somehow unknowingly brought his criminal acquaintances to the care center?

While the characters are strong, the plot meanders. And I’m not certain lovers of cozy mysteries really need that much detail on how to make a bong. The little stories within the big plotline bounce and boing everywhere. Reading this book is like having a conversation with a person who knows interesting people and interesting facts, and she wants to tell you about all of it.