Not Available on Any Magazine Rack

With the myriad “punny” titles already available in cozy mysteries these days, it was only a matter of time before somebody published a novel with this groaner of a name: Deader Homes and Gardens. The book was written by Joan Hess and will be released next month by Minotaur Books. Here’s the plot description:

Back from her somewhat unusual honeymoon, Claire Malloy must face the harsh reality of life with her new husband, police chief Peter Rosen, and her teenage daughter Caron--three people simply can’t fit into her cozy two bedroom apartment. After a week of fruitless looking, she finally finds the perfect place--a well-preserved large house on a large plot of land in an area called Hollow Valley. There are only a few problems. Such as the real-estate agent disappeared mid-showing and hasn’t been seen since. And the last owner died in circumstances labeled “accidental” but were actually both “mysterious” and “dubious.” The family that owned the estate is now suing the lover of the dead owner over the rights to the property. Oh, and it isn’t really for sale. When the previous owner’s lover dies practically at her feet, Claire decides to take matters into her own hands. After all, to get the house of her dreams, first she has to find a killer. And all’s fair in love, war, and real estate.

What will be the next “shelter magazine” title to be corrupted? Anyone for Hearse Beautiful? Hell Decor? Or maybe Southern Dying?