Murder by Cheesecake

The bond between its four central characters was the animating principle of the Golden Girls as a sitcom, and Ekstrom Courage carries this forward in the cozy mystery plot. Though the wedding and murder mystery increase emotional tension in the group, the characters ultimately rely on and trust one another, enabling them to resolve important predicaments and look forward to a happy future. Friendship becomes both a practical resource in problem-solving and an existential assurance that their lives retain meaning and stability in the face of uncertainty.

When the work opens, Rose immediately confesses her anxieties about Nettie’s wedding, trusting the others to understand how important her family traditions are to her. When Rose rejects the idea of holding the wedding in another nearby town, she declares, “I may be desperate but I’m not foolhardy” and Dorothy refrains from comment, telling herself, “Now wasn’t the time to bring up Rose’s man foolhardy ideas” (13), She assures Rose they will help her find a solution. Dorothy’s sarcastic wit is an essential part of her personality and outlook, but she puts aside her natural temperament out of kindness and loyalty. Instead, she offers reassurance and confidence, and later, her logistical help with the wedding details.