The Shell House Detectives by Emylia Hall is a 2023 Thomas & Mercer publication.
An outstanding British Mystery!
First, we have the location- the CornThe Shell House Detectives by Emylia Hall is a 2023 Thomas & Mercer publication.
An outstanding British Mystery!
First, we have the location- the Cornish coast- an automatic creation of atmosphere. Then we have some well-drawn characters- Ally, a widow, whose husband was in law-enforcement, and ex cop, Jayden, a newcomer with a pregnant wife at home- pair up to solve a mystery that involves a young man named Lewis, who has recently been released from incarceration, and a missing woman named Helena. These two unlikely sleuths forge not only a partnership in crime solving, but a close friendship as well.
The mystery is very compelling with a few surprising revelations I didn’t see coming at all. If you are thinking this is a light, fluffy mystery simply because it is basically ‘clean’, and categorized as a 'cozy', think again. There is some good storytelling here and all readers of crime fiction will appreciate it, I think. It’s a whodunit that keeps you guessing, but it was also a portrait of a community, of people caring about others, and helping people.
“I think that’s the best thing someone can do, isn’t it? Want to help?”
Overall, an absorbing, atmospheric, and inspirational whodunit! I am very much looking forward to the next chapter in this series!...more
Luther: The Calling by Neil Cross is a 2011 Simon & Schuster publication.
My DH and I watched every Luther episode ever made- all without the benefit Luther: The Calling by Neil Cross is a 2011 Simon & Schuster publication.
My DH and I watched every Luther episode ever made- all without the benefit of having read this book first. While I kept intending to read it- I never quite managed to work it into my schedule… until I noticed it was part of the KU program. I immediately borrowed it, super excited by the prospect of getting to read a ‘Luther’ story.
I will confess, though, that both my husband and I were occasionally put off by the show due to the very dark nature of the plotlines. It seems we’ve both mellowed just a bit over the years. So, though I was somewhat prepared for a dark, gritty crime thriller I was not ready for the descriptions of one of the most heinous sorts of crimes out there. I had to take a few breaks before I was able to complete the novel.
This book is basically the setup for the series- the case that nearly breaks the unorthodox John Luther. This meant that “Alice” had not come along just yet- and I was a bit disappointed she was not a part of this book. I always thought the series was better when she was a part of it.
That said, John Luther is a flawed, complicated character-an anti-hero type who flaunts the rules and manages to somehow come out of it with his job still intact. The book is well-written and executed and is unflinchingly realistic at times- from the graphic depictions of the crimes and the criminals- but also the corruption and vigilantism. I am disappointed to see that a planned follow-up has never materialized. I’d love to see more installments in the series, even though I found this one a bit hard to get through due to its graphic nature and subject matter.
Overall, I was glad I finally got around to reading this book. I wish I’d done so before watching the show, though, as I feel it would have given me a better understanding of John’s actions in that first season. Even if you have not seen the show- if you like dark, twisted, gritty crime thrillers this is one you might want to consider.
This side of Murder by Anna Lee Huber is a 2017 publication.
Just after the Great War, Verity, who lost her husband, Sidney, in the war, has been inviThis side of Murder by Anna Lee Huber is a 2017 publication.
Just after the Great War, Verity, who lost her husband, Sidney, in the war, has been invited to the engagement party of one of Sidney’s fellow officers. Upon arrival, Verity is shocked to find a copy of ‘The Pilgram’s Progress’- the book she had given to Sidney, in her room. Inspecting the book, she finds a hidden, encrypted missive along with a suggestion her husband was a traitor.
On alert, Verity is determined to discover who is accusing her husband of such a heinous crime. It becomes immediately clear that something untoward was going on with the thirtieth division- and now, cut off from civilization, anyone who might know the truth is being eliminated. Not knowing who to trust, Verity must tread carefully, or she could be next!
A wonderfully entertaining mystery! Just what I was in the mood for. I really liked Verity, the surprise twists, set time and place, and the way everything came together in the end. I started this book back in November but was surprised by a few last-minute Thanksgiving developments so I opted to put it aside until I could truly focus on it and I’m glad I did. It was worth waiting for!
The story is well thought out and for a first in a series the author did an amazing job of putting all the characters into their positions and giving us plenty of incentives to catch the next installment….
The Body in the Transept by Jeanne M. Dams is a 2020 Joffe Books publication. (Reissue from 1995)
This first installment in the series introduces DorotThe Body in the Transept by Jeanne M. Dams is a 2020 Joffe Books publication. (Reissue from 1995)
This first installment in the series introduces Dorothy Martin, an American widow living in the English town of Sherebury.
After attending a Christmas Eve midnight service at the cathedral, Dorothy has the misfortune of stumbling across the body of Canon Billings. His death is no accident as it is soon discovered that he’s been stabbed to death.
At loose ends since her husband died, and bothered by the murder, especially as she was the one who found the body, Dorothy feels compelled to investigate, with the help of Chief Constable Alan Nesbitt. As they converse the pair find they enjoy spending time together and become friends- but, of course, there are hints of a possible romance developing as the series progresses.
I came across this book through the Kindle Unlimited program. I checked it out from my app without doing a deep dive into it, so I didn’t know until after I had finished the book and started gathering information for my review that this book was originally published back in 1995!! Now that’s really saying something. The only hint I had about the age of the book was perhaps Dorothy’s favorite mystery writers, but- not necessarily, as most of her favorites are still well-read today.
Not only that, but evidently, this book won an Edgar Award for best first novel in 1995- no wonder it was so good!
Dorothy and Alan have exceptional banter and chemistry and the mystery is interesting with several viable suspects and a few big surprises. Dorothy is hilarious, quirky, and smarter than she realizes. Her cat also complemented the story …. And maybe I should mention Dorothy’s unique choice in hats, too.
Occasionally, the story lost some momentum and because this is the first book in a series, some time had to be spent setting the stage, but overall things moved along at a nice pace.
Although categorized as a cozy, a label slapped on any amateur sleuth, this book will appeal to crime fiction readers of all stripes. It is light, humorous on many occasions, but also suspenseful and will keep you entertained and guessing until the very end.
I love it when I happen across a real gem like this one. I am also thrilled that Joffe Books has formatted this series so that it is getting new recognition, or can be enjoyed again by those who are already fans of the series.
When Blood Lies by C.S. Harris is a 2022 Berkley publication.
Sebastian and Hero are in Paris following a possible lead to the whereabouts of SebastiaWhen Blood Lies by C.S. Harris is a 2022 Berkley publication.
Sebastian and Hero are in Paris following a possible lead to the whereabouts of Sebastian’s mother. A shocking event changes the trajectory of their mission sending them headlong into an intensely emotional and dangerous search for a killer.
I was very surprised by this turn of events. I never would have guessed things would turn out like this for Sebastian. That said, it made for a very absorbing murder mystery. This series is, at its core, is a procedural, but it is the historical details and the atmosphere, along with the amazing characters makes it stand out.
The climate in France at this critical juncture is handled incredibly well and is very interesting all by itself. But the situation is heart wrenching for Sebastian. And as always, he melts my heart. My immense respect for Hero climbs up another notch in this installment. The mystery this time around is an emotional one, but the intrigue kept me on the edge of my seat.
This is one of those series, I wait impatiently for each installment and then must force myself to slow down and relish every dark, splendid detail.
This series is, at its core, is a procedural, but it is the incredible historical details and the atmosphere, along with the amazing characters makes it stand out. The story ends on an intriguing note and is yet another stellar installment in one of my all-time favorite series!...more
The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie is a 1926 publication.
A magnificent mystery classic!
Poirot is trying to enjoy his retirement in King’The Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie is a 1926 publication.
A magnificent mystery classic!
Poirot is trying to enjoy his retirement in King’s Abbot, when he is approached to help investigate the murder of Roger Ackroyd. Due to his retirement, Poirot no longer has Hastings at his side, but his neighbor, Dr. James Sheppard, seamlessly steps into the sidekick role.
Although, Poirot is ‘retired’ his little grey cells are still in fine working order. In fact, our Belgian detective is at the top of his game here as he coaxes secrets, big and small from his list of suspects. I was only mildly disappointed to have surmised the culprit, and the probable motive early on, because I so enjoyed watching Poirot work through all the little details of his observations and laying a masterful trap for our murderer.
This is only the third full length novel in this series, and for its time it was brilliant! A very clever plot, woven beautifully, and skillfully.
Overall, I am once again quite impressed with Christie’s genius and cunning! I’d say this novel solidified Poirot’s popularity and hints at the even greater mysteries he would become famous for solving in the years to come.
4 stars
*This is not the edition I read. I could not get the version I own or the e-book edition I have to load on here. It kept saying 'page not found'. Hope this is a fluke due to the 'beta' page and is something I can update later. ...more
The Notting Hill Mystery by Charles Warren Adams is a 2015 British Crime Library publication. (Originally published in 1862)
Groundbreaking British MysThe Notting Hill Mystery by Charles Warren Adams is a 2015 British Crime Library publication. (Originally published in 1862)
Groundbreaking British Mystery!
Ralph Henderson is an insurance investigator who carefully lays out a solid case of insurance fraud and murder. Much like a police detective would, he uses good old -fashioned shoe leather to conduct interviews and gather evidence. Then, he presents his case in writing, almost like a lawyer would do to convince a jury-who, in this case, happens to be you- the reader!
The details are fascinating, if a bit melodramatic. The Baron R is the prime suspect and poisoning appears to be his modus operandi… that and his talents as Mesmerist. There are a few surprising twists before all is said and done, keeping things interesting- if a bit far-fetched.
The modern reader would probably pan this book today. Some un-PC threads, (a kidnapping by a band of ‘Gypsies’), and implausible plot devices, although popular at the time the book was written, might turn some readers off today.
Other than that, what makes this book stand out, like the synopsis states, is that it is believed to be the first full length detective novel. The book could also technically pass as an inverted mystery, as it is clear right from the get-go who the murderer is. The reader remains interested because they want to see how the murderers were committed. I think this book does set a standard for the future of mystery novels and for that reason, I think mystery lovers might find this book of interest.
It is also Henderson’s presentation of the facts that kept me invested in the story. It would have been nice to see him return in subsequent installments, to see his character fleshed out a bit, because he is quite good at his job. I found myself wondering about his looks, his private life, etc.
This one is worth checking out for its historical value and contribution to crime fiction. The British Crime Library has a nice selection of these classic mysteries available in digital format. I’m looking forward to exploring more of them this year! 3.5 stars
*Just to be clear, the publishing date is for the release in digital format. The book was not written in present day, but set in the 1800s. This is NOT historical fiction as I have seen some categorize it as such....more
The Dower House by Patricia Wentworth is a 2016 Open Road Media publication. (Originally published in 1925)
I love Golden Age Mysteries!
This is a stanThe Dower House by Patricia Wentworth is a 2016 Open Road Media publication. (Originally published in 1925)
I love Golden Age Mysteries!
This is a stand- alone mystery- not a part of the Miss Silver series- by Wentworth. Amabel Grey’s rather spoiled daughter, Daphne, shovels on the guilt, demanding that Amabel raise the funds for a trip she’s desperate to take. Determined to get the money, Amabel agrees to spend six months at 'Dower House' to help dispel stubborn rumors that the house is haunted. Will she manage to stay for the duration?
I’m sure that over the years I have read a few books by Patricia Wentworth, but it would have been long, long time ago, and I don’t have any memory of them. I’ve been piecing together the ‘Miss Silver’ mysteries for a while, hoping to read through the series from start to finish. This book, however, is not a part of that series. Truth be told, I stumbled across it while browsing through the Kindle Unlimited books at Amazon.
This was such a fun mystery! Amabel is reunited with the real love of her life after many years, but her life could be in real danger- but from whom? And Why?
There are plenty of atmospheric chills and thrills, as well as a sweet love story, and lots of intrigue. The story wasn’t one hundred percent perfect, as it may have carried on a little longer than necessary, but other than that, it was quite entertaining!!
As always, I feel compelled to give thanks to Open Road Media for reissuing so many wonderful classic mysteries in digital format. Finding these books can be a bit of a chore, and can be costly, if you are looking for print copies. Not only that, it is much easier on my eyes if I can read them on my Kindle.
I’m really looking forward to reading through the "Miss Silver" series and will be on the lookout for more stand -alone novels by this author.
The Sussex Downs Murder by John Bude is a 2015 Poison Pen publication. (Originally published in 1936)
This Golden Age mystery was saved from obscurity The Sussex Downs Murder by John Bude is a 2015 Poison Pen publication. (Originally published in 1936)
This Golden Age mystery was saved from obscurity with the help of the British Crime Library and is now available via Poisoned Pen Press in digital format.
Any avid, contemporary, mystery reader will have absolutely no trouble at all figuring out, well in advance, 'whodunit', and maybe a whole lot of the ‘how’ part too.
While that would ordinarily bug me to no end, it wouldn't be fair to judge this novel by our wizened and jaded modern day standards.
I think it is obvious the author put some serious thought into the plot, with some truly novel details, but, still, I’m not even sure the more innocent 1936 audiences would have been entirely baffled by this plot.
Nevertheless, I did enjoy seeing how Meredith pieced all the bits and pieces of the puzzle together to finally solve the crime he investigated for months.
This is my first ‘Meredith’ mystery, and while it certainly didn’t blow me away, I did enjoy reading an old Golden Age mystery by an author I was not familiar with.
Meredith has some nice dialogue and observations in the story- and takes a few jabs at the detectives featured in popular novels of the day-
“But when it comes to a proper detective yarn give me something that’s possible, plausible, and not crammed with a lot of nice little coincidences and ‘flashes of intuition’. Things don’t work that way in real life. We don’t work that way. At least, sir, that’s how it seems to me anyway.”
Oh snap! I do detect a bit of snark there!
Of course, this is a quick, gentle, clean mystery, I can’t think of anything I found offensive, though the story is very much a product of its time.
I found the book mildly entertaining, with most of the novelty coming from its rescue from obscurity. I’m so happy to see these older detective and mystery novels reaching new audiences, though, and even if some of the material isn’t nearly as challenging to readers as it was when first published, they are still fun to read!!
I will definitely look for more “Meredith” mysteries in the future!
Mrs. Jeffries and the Alms of the Angels by Emily Brightwell is a 2019 Berkley publication.
This is my first book in this long running series. I have Mrs. Jeffries and the Alms of the Angels by Emily Brightwell is a 2019 Berkley publication.
This is my first book in this long running series. I have often wondered about it, but of course the sheer volume of installments gave me pause. However, it was my understanding that this is one of those series which does not require one to read them in exact order. So, I dived right in to this 38th installment, and found the author provided enough background information for me to get the gist of the premise and fill in any necessary blanks. The only drawback was my unfamiliarity with the large cast of recurring characters. Maybe someday, I’ll get to know them better, though.
As it so happens, a murder during the Christmas holiday season is something of a yearly tradition for Mrs. Jeffries and Inspector Winslow. However, it seems as though this year could be an exception- until…
By all accounts Margaret Starling is a pillar of her community. She attends St. Peter’s church and generously serves on the board of the Angel Alms Society. But, as of late, she had not at all been herself. For a woman so charitable, she had recently made a few enemies- and now she’s been found bludgeoned to death outside her home.
When Inspector Winslow is called out of his jurisdiction to investigate, the decision steps on a few toes, a situation that could thwart the investigation. But, never fear- Mrs. Jeffries is on the case with her trusty team to make sure the murder is solved before the holidays are over.
I must say, the story is charming, and the mystery is a solid whodunit. Obviously, one should expect a light, simple, clean mystery going in, which I did. Although the setup is dubious to say the least, due to the time frame- which is Victorian London- some of the improbabilities are easier to overlook. In fact, the mystery was more challenging than I anticipated, and I found myself rather enjoying it. While I will probably never attempt to read these in order, or on a regular basis, I may add one in here and there, from time to time, just for fun.
Overall, I’m glad I finally managed to satisfy my curiosity about the series, and found Mrs. Jeffries, Inspector Winslow and the entire cast enchanting! ...more
The Body on the Beach by Simon Brett is a 2000 Berkley publication.
This is the first in book in the long running ‘Fethering’ Mystery series.
Carole iThe Body on the Beach by Simon Brett is a 2000 Berkley publication.
This is the first in book in the long running ‘Fethering’ Mystery series.
Carole is walking her dog when she discovers a dead body on the beach. After reporting the crime, Carole is furious at the way she was treated by the police. She is also out of sorts because of her new neighbor, Jude. Carole likes her quiet, ordered life and Jude’s presence is bound to be a disruption.
But, much to her surprise, Carole finds herself intrigued by Jude, and discovers she is easy to confide in, although Jude doesn’t really reciprocate in the way Carole would like. The pair decides to investigate the suspicious death on their own, and discover they have a knack for detective work.
The village and all the quirky characters from the local pub add drama, humor, and excitement to the story as the mystery deepens once the ladies uncover more information. They eventually link together a rather complex set of circumstances, and slowly narrow down the suspects in a most disorganized, but effective manner.
This series came to my attention through Netgalley and Berkley publishing. I did not realize, when I was approved for 'The Liar in the Library', that it was part of a very long running series. So, before I tackled a book that deep into the thick of things, I decided to at least read the first few books in the series to get a better feel for the characters. I’m glad I decided to do that, since I have the distinct impression many the characters introduced here will become recurring ones and will develop more fully as the series continues.
As with most ‘first in a series’ mysteries, a lot of time is spent on time and place, and with the introduction of characters. The author created a nice, rich atmosphere in Feathering. It feels like an ideal backdrop for these characters. It’s a charming seaside village, but apparently it harbors a great many secrets and a bit of a sinister undertone.
Carole is an introverted type, while Jude is more gregarious. Jude remains a bit of an enigma, while Carole becomes more sociable. They certainly make an odd duo, but it works.
The mystery plot is a tad busy and messy, but it was the first case for these amateur detectives so I’m sure as they gain more experience they will get much better at playing detectives.
Overall, a solid beginning of the series and I look forward to visiting the quaint village of Feathering again soon.
A Bitter Feast by Deborah Crombie is a 2019 William Morrow publication.
Celebrity chefs and Murder!
Gemma and Duncan are set to visit Melody Talbot, aA Bitter Feast by Deborah Crombie is a 2019 William Morrow publication.
Celebrity chefs and Murder!
Gemma and Duncan are set to visit Melody Talbot, at her parent’s posh Cotswold estate. What was meant to be a relaxing time away, quickly spirals into a tragic series of deaths after a car crash Duncan was involved with, leads to the discovery that one of the victims died of poison, and not from the accident. If that wasn’t shocking enough, the victim turns out to be the famed celebrity chef, Fergus O’Reilly.
Meanwhile, Melody’s mother is hosting an event, catered by local chef, Viv Holland. When someone close to Viv is the victim of a hit and run, her former relationship with Fergus comes under intense scrutiny. In the meantime, Melody encounters difficulties in her personal life and Doug takes the heat for interfering.
This latest installment has a different atmosphere- perhaps not quite as dark- but just as absorbing. The celebrity chef and ‘foodie’ angle, is a fresh plot-line I thought worked out well.
The twists are surprising, and while some may have figured out who the murderer was, I was taken completely off guard and found the conclusion to be a little tense.
One other nice part of this installment is the further development of Duncan’s and Gemma’s children, especially the oldest boy, Kit. The only downside was that the concern for Duncan’s health cast a pall over the usual banter between he and Gemma, which I missed.
Occasionally, Duncan and Gemma solve crimes while on holiday, or when visiting friends, and I think it is good to mix things up a little that way. The different location, allows the couple to work as consultants, instead of with assigned cases, and it also allowed the author to segue into a new phase after closing the last big multi-installment thread.
That said, I do hope the series returns to the regular assigned cases which cause Duncan and Gemma to examine their own personal emotions as they manage their household and relationships.
I’ve been reading through this series for several years. I have finally caught up with all the installments and will now have wait with everyone else for the next chapter to be released. I have enjoyed the journey and am looking forward to more time with Gemma and Duncan and the secondary characters we’ve come to know and love.
Necessary as Blood by Deborah Crombie is a 2009 William Morrow publication.
Time to check in with Duncan and Gemma!
This thirteenth installment in theNecessary as Blood by Deborah Crombie is a 2009 William Morrow publication.
Time to check in with Duncan and Gemma!
This thirteenth installment in the Kincaid and James mystery series begins by reuniting Gemma with her old friends, Hazel and Tim.
When Tim’s friend, Naz, goes missing, he calls Gemma in a panic. Naz’s wife, Sandra also disappeared a short time ago, which makes the situation even more puzzling. Worse still, now that both Naz and Sandra are missing, their adorable three -year daughter, Charlotte, is left all alone.
Eventually, Duncan and Scotland Yard are called in to investigate what has turned into a complicated and complex murder investigation.
Meanwhile, Gemma is worried sick about her mother and feels as though she must follow through with a ‘big wedding’ ceremony although her heart really isn’t in it. She is also extremely worried about Charlotte when it becomes obvious her nearest relatives aren’t fit to care for her.
This is another very solid installment in the series. I enjoyed reading about London’s East End and the Bengali population. The mystery is layered, interesting, and very absorbing. It kept me guessing right up to the end and was topped off with a shocking conclusion.
But, as with all series, the personal lives of the recurring characters, is a very important part of why we enjoy reading series in the first place. I can’t stress my utter surprise at the deeply romantic turn this story took, at one point. Truly wonderful, solidifying my secret crush on Duncan forever.
But, most of all, I was proud of Gemma and her character growth in this chapter of the series. Good for you, Gemma!! You go girl!
While it took a while to grow on me, this series has become one of my favorites. It has taken me over two years to get this far. I pressured myself to hurry up and get caught up with the series, mainly so I could focus on some of the many other series I have started, but now I’m glad I stretched it out. I like the idea of having a ‘Kincaid and James’ mystery at the ready when the mood strikes, so I’m a going to be a little sad when I finally do get caught up. But, until then, I’m going to savor every installment I have left.
Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell is a 2018 Atria Books publication.
Well, this was certainly different!
Missing persons tropes are common in mysteries Then She Was Gone by Lisa Jewell is a 2018 Atria Books publication.
Well, this was certainly different!
Missing persons tropes are common in mysteries and thrillers, and the theme has been written and explored in many predictable ways, but also in many clever, even shocking ways. But, no matter how it is presented, it is a scenario that never fails to draw me in. But, I must say, this novel puts an entirely new and fresh spin on the missing persons mystery-
The story begins like so many others-
Ellie, a conscientious teenager, and the apple of her mother's eye, left to visit the library and was never seen or heard from again. Laurel, Ellie's mother, couldn’t understand how her other children and her husband were able to move on with their lives without knowing what happened to Ellie. Laurel's life stalled, her marriage fell apart and the relationship with her two remaining children is strained.
But, finally, after years of just going through the motions of life, Laurel meets Floyd, a single dad with a young daughter named Poppy. The connection between Laurel and Floyd is immediate and heady. But, when Laurel finally gets to meet Poppy, she is unnerved by the uncanny resemblance to her daughter, Ellie. She even smells like Ellie, which kicks Laurel's natural maternal instincts into high gear. This and another small coincidence, puts new thoughts into Laurel’s head, prompting her to do a little amateur sleuthing.
She never in a million years could have predicted the shocking revelations her inquiries would uncover or the personal epiphanies that would change Laurel's life forevermore. Is it possible that Laurel could, at long last, find all the answers about her daughter’s disappearance?
This story was very dark, gloomy, and creepy, but also quite emotional and poignant. Laurel's voice is so realististic, raw, and sympathetic, she nearly had me believing she was a real person and that this was a true story. Her emergence from a tortuous state of limbo and her fierce determination to get to the truth, and begin truly living life again was an amazing transformation.
I think Lisa Jewell has written a chilling novel of suspense, but it is also a book about the power of maternal love, forgiveness and healing and never giving up.
This could be Jewel’s first tentatives steps towards advancing up to the literary thriller category. I was impressed with this novel as it held my rapt attention from start to finish. It gave me goosebumps in more ways than one. 4.5 stars...more
No Mark Upon Her by Deborah Crombie is a 2011 McMillian publication.
Hands down, THE best book in the series to date!
I’ve been in the mood to catchNo Mark Upon Her by Deborah Crombie is a 2011 McMillian publication.
Hands down, THE best book in the series to date!
I’ve been in the mood to catch up with some of my favorite crime series this month. It’s always great to touch base with favorite characters, which often gives me a comforting feeling. However, I got a lot more than I bargained for with this fourteenth chapter of the Kincaid and James series.
The story is centered around Becca Meredith, a member of law enforcement who is considering making a run for the Olympics as a rower. However, she is murdered before she gets the chance. Kincaid and Doug catch the case, while Gemma and Melody work behind the scenes to help solve the case.
Meanwhile, Gemma and Kincaid are laying the groundwork to adopt sweet Charlotte, which brings some unexpected backlash from Gemma’s family.
Although is was published eight years ago, the subject matter would fit right in with today's headlines. The challenges women face in a male dominated field, on top of the politics designed to protect the image of the Met, made this story absolutely riveting. It is one of the darkest installments yet, but the execution was nearly flawless.
I’m only a few books away from being completely caught up with the series. I’m glad I read the books in exact order and had the chance to watch the series and its well-drawn characters grow and develop, as well as the author’s skill at writing complex and thoughtful mysteries.
If you haven’t tried this series, I highly recommend it!!
Folly/Whisper of the Dead by Stella Cameron is a 2015 Crème de la Crime publication.
Deeply absorbing British Mystery-
After Alex’s divorce, she moves Folly/Whisper of the Dead by Stella Cameron is a 2015 Crème de la Crime publication.
Deeply absorbing British Mystery-
After Alex’s divorce, she moves back to her hometown in Cotswold, and is now the new owner of a local pub. But, her fresh start hit a snag when she stumbles across a dead body covered by snow.
As the investigation proceeds, Alex finds herself mixed up in things, whether she likes it or not. Not only that, her past is being raked up, her renewed friendship with Tony, a man she grew up with, is in jeopardy, the local law enforcement has it in for her, and she could be in danger. If that weren’t bad enough- another murder takes place, putting the entire community on edge.
This is the first book in the Alex Duggins mystery series. I’ve been curious about this series for a while. It seemed like a bit of a departure for this author, after making a name for herself writing romantic suspense novels, many of which I really enjoyed.
I am happy to report this series got off to a great start for me, and Cameron did a great job writing a pure British style mystery. The location is divine, and the mystery is multi-layered and suspenseful, ending with a tense and stunning twist. There are still a few mysteries left to explore, especially concerning Tony and his mysterious past. I’m really looking forward to seeing how this series progresses.
4 stars Note: (Folly was originally published August 13, 2013 as Cold in eBook format.) ...more
Water Like Stone by Deborah Crombie is a 2007 William Morrow publication.
My first Gemma James and Duncan Kincaid installment of 2019! It has taken meWater Like Stone by Deborah Crombie is a 2007 William Morrow publication.
My first Gemma James and Duncan Kincaid installment of 2019! It has taken me three years to get this far in the series, as I am not much of a binge reader. But, barring some unforeseen circumstances, I will finish it this year!
I’m up to the eleventh chapter in the series, which finds Gemma and Duncan traveling to spend the Christmas holidays with Duncan’s parents. This will be Gemma’s first official visit and she is understandably nervous.
However, things get off to an unsettling start when Duncan’s sister, Juliet, discovers the body of a deceased baby while doing work on a renovation project. Duncan is just dying to get involved in the case, but of course, he must allow the local authorities to handle it.
To add more tension to the situation, Juliet is experiencing marital woes, which become very public and vocal making everyone uncomfortable, and more than a little concerned for Juliet.
This may be the most absorbing installment in the series so far. The family drama, however, was the most compelling part of the story. However, Crombie has several plot lines moving at once, which may or may not be interconnected. The story has a distinct element of dread which steadily increased, causing me genuine distress and concern for the characters. The conclusion was riveting and quite chilling.
Overall, it took me a good while to really get a good solid handle on this series. But, I think I’ve finally gotten into the groove and think it is starting to live up to my full expectations of it....more
In a Dark House by Deborah Crombie is a 2005 publication.
In this tenth installment of the 'Kincaid and James' series, Duncan’s diplomatic skills are In a Dark House by Deborah Crombie is a 2005 publication.
In this tenth installment of the 'Kincaid and James' series, Duncan’s diplomatic skills are called upon when a member of parliament makes an investment that goes up in flames, and a dead body is found in the rubble.
Meanwhile, Gemma helps her friend whose roommate has disappeared, leaving behind clues to a double life.
Strangely enough the two cases appear connected which has the couple working in tandem, but separately, as the evidence reveals yet another connection involving the kidnapping of a young girl by her father. The girl is now missing, as well, adding even more layers to this complex murder investigation.
I’ve been working my way through this series for quite some time now. I’ve finally crossed into the double digits, closing in on the home stretch. So far, the series has not always been reliable. It seems like every other installment is a little rocky, so after completing book nine, which was pretty solid, I approached this one with caution. However, I needn’t have worried!
Yes, this installment is quite complicated, and I could not for the life of me figure out how on earth the three cases could possibly be related. Each case was compelling, and mysterious, and I marveled at the way Crombie deftly connected the dots.
I was a little frustrated by Gemma and Duncan’s personal interactions in this installment, however. The ongoing saga with Kit was especially irritating, but also realistic. Although it felt like a step back, it also broke new ground, so I’m curious to see how this all plays out.
Overall, this is another very solid addition to the series. I’m looking forward to the next one with much more enthusiasm than before. I won’t get the series completed before year’s end as I’d planned, but I do see light at the end of the tunnel.
Now You May Weep by Deborah Crombie is a 2005 publication.
After suffering a personal loss, Gemma is trying to move forward with her life. She and DunNow You May Weep by Deborah Crombie is a 2005 publication.
After suffering a personal loss, Gemma is trying to move forward with her life. She and Duncan are now co-habitating and raising Kit and Toby together. But, a girls’ only get away with her best friend, Hazel, sounds like fun. However, Hazel has ulterior motives for taking this trip and may have mislead her friend.
Soon enough, Gemma learns things about Hazel that shakes her faith in the possibility of anyone truly enjoying a long lasting and stable romantic relationship. If this weren’t enough to spoil her time away, a ghastly murder puts the proverbial nail in the coffin. Worse still, Hazel has been taken in for questioning-
This is the tenth installment in the Kincaid and James series. As I’ve stated before, this series is very popular and well received. For me, it’s been a bit like fire and ice. Some installments have been simply outstanding, while others were way off the mark.
This one I am happy to report, is one of the good ones. I enjoyed the change of scenery, the historical details, and the truly emotional aspects of the story, which dares to tamper with a character we’ve long relied on for sound reason and balance. This story examines affairs of the heart, and the intense emotions love can evoke. Love can bring out the best in people, but also the worst, and can get pretty twisted when there is unrequited love, forbidden love, and jealousy involved. As always, Gemma and Duncan have a few domestic issues at play. Here Duncan must deal with Kit’s grandmother who continues to pursue custody, and Kit’s refusal to submit to a DNA test which would prove his paternity once and for all.
Overall, this was an excellent installment in the series. I've been slowly working my way through the series, and I do mean S-L-O-W-L-Y-. Every year, I swear I’m going to finally get all caught up, but as another year winds down, I still have seven more books to go. Oh well, maybe in 2019- Of course by then, there’s bound to be a new release… *Sigh*
Such is the life of an overwhelmed reader. 😊...more
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