"Dashiki" by Florence Wetzel

DASHIKI - A cozy mystery with a dash of romance set in the vibrant world of jazz.  During an interview with reclusive jazz singer Betty Brown, journalist Virginia Farrell is shown priceless tapes from the iconic 1957 Thelonious Monk-John Coltrane gig at the Five Spot. When Betty is found murdered, Virginia is determined to recover the tapes and uncover the truth behind Betty’s death. In the spirit of Nancy Drew, Virginia teams up with her six-foot blonde roommate to investigate the various suspects. Detective Robert Smith from the Hoboken Police Department joins the case, quickly becoming absorbed by an unsolved murder possibly linked to Betty Brown’s death, as well as an undeniable attraction to Virginia. Dashiki is a cozy mystery laced with romance, immersing readers in the captivating world of jazz, where musicians, journalists, scholars, and enthusiasts intersect in an entertaining whodunit. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Florence Wetzel was born 1962 in Brooklyn, NY.  She writes in different genres, including her release Sara My Sara: A Memoir of Friendship and Loss, which was published in July 2024. Her novels include the thriller The Woman Who Went Overboard and the Swedish mystery The Grand Man. She has also authored horror short stories, a book of poems and memoir essays, and co-authored jazz clarinetist Perry Robinson's autobiography. Learn more about Florence Wetzel and her work at https://linktr.ee/FlorenceWetzel    TOPICS OF CONVERSATION From Passion to Pages: The Birth of Dashiki – The novel blends the author's background in jazz journalism with her love for Agatha Christie's mysteries. The result is a story that merges music, intrigue, and investigative storytelling. A Mystery That Sings – At the heart of Dashiki is a set of lost jazz recordings with historical significance. When a journalist is entrusted with their return and the source is murdered, the pursuit of justice and truth takes center stage. The Art of Reinvention – Originally self-published after years of seeking traditional publishing, Dashiki returns in a refined edition. The journey reflects perseverance in storytelling and the evolving landscape of independent publishing. The Unexpected Magic of Cozy Mysteries – The novel captures the essence of a classic whodunit while immersing readers in the jazz world. A balance of mystery, character depth, and atmospheric settings keeps the story engaging. A Love Letter to Jazz and Storytelling – Dashiki highlights jazz’s enduring impact while introducing the genre to new audiences. Readers unfamiliar with jazz have embraced the story, demonstrating fiction’s ability to inspire curiosity and appreciation.