An Evil Heart by Linda Castillo is a 2023 Minotaur Books publication.
As Kate prepares for her wedding, the murder of a young man with a stellar reputAn Evil Heart by Linda Castillo is a 2023 Minotaur Books publication.
As Kate prepares for her wedding, the murder of a young man with a stellar reputation in the community, committed in a most unusual manner, has the chief completely flummoxed. Yet, as she begins looking into the victim’s life, some troubling information comes to light. Did the golden boy have a dark side that got him murdered?
This series is so addicting! This is another dark, well woven story by Castillo. While the novel is moderately graphic on occasion, the real intensity comes by taking the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride. Lots of lurid details that had me wishing I could close my eyes and not have to be reminded of how depraved some people can be.
On a lighter note- but still one that contains quite a few heavy emotions, Kate is about to enter a new phase in her personal life, and this is a good thing. Long time fans will be glad to see these developments and will appreciate the tender moments as family and friends join in the celebration.
Overall, this series continues to deliver nail biting suspense and top notch emotional stories that stick with you long after you turn the final page....more
Lark! The Herald Angels Sing by Donna Andrews is a 2018 Minotaur Books publication.
Meg is stunned to discover the baby Jesus in the church’s nativityLark! The Herald Angels Sing by Donna Andrews is a 2018 Minotaur Books publication.
Meg is stunned to discover the baby Jesus in the church’s nativity play is not Robyn’s baby, but someone else’s. According to the note attached the baby could be her brother Rob’s baby! As Meg goes on the hunt to find the baby’s mother, a web of intrigue will force Meg to gather reinforcement from the women in Caerphilly…
It’s been a long while since I last touched base with Meg and the gang. I thought since this was a Christmas themed installment, I might pull it out for a ‘Christmas in July’ thing- but I knew I needed to get back into the series ASAP because I still have a mountain of installments to read through to get caught up.
The holiday books are always special, and this one was no exception. It was a fun and hilarious romp through the snow with Meg and all our favorite Caerphilly characters. The last quarter of the book was so hysterical, I had to put the book down for a minute to gather myself. I was reminded of how fun this series has been and that I need to touch base a bit more often!
A Killing of Innocents by Deborah Crombie is a 2022 William Morrow publication.
In this nineteenth installment of the 'Kincaid and James' series, a brA Killing of Innocents by Deborah Crombie is a 2022 William Morrow publication.
In this nineteenth installment of the 'Kincaid and James' series, a bright, young medical professional is stabbed to death. But why? The plot thickens when another person in the medical profession is murdered, possibly linking the two cases together. But, what is the connection?
This is one of my favorite British police procedural dramas. As such, it has been far too long since we touched base with Duncan and Gemma- two full years! With all that has happened since then, and the quality of mystery/thrillers, having slid to an all time low, I was so excited to finally get my hands on the latest installment in this stellar series.
Crombie sticks to the tried and true, offering a peek into the private lives of the recurring characters while giving readers a puzzling and compelling mystery to solve. I always like seeing the mystery come together as the detectives do the grunt work required to solve the crimes. This means interviews, research, undercover work, and good old-fashioned legwork. This is exactly what we’ve come to expect with this series and in many ways, it is a relief to pick up a series that delivers, is reliable, and maybe even comforting, despite the dark nature of crime fiction and the occasional heaviness of balancing one’s personal life with a stressful, demanding occupation.
I love that Gemma and Duncan’s children sew, cook, and dance- and even write letters- with a pen and paper- and I like that the detectives do not rely too much on technology- getting out into the field and rolling up their sleeves.
While I do appreciate all these things, and even find them refreshing, if I’m being honest, there were also a few times I thought actions or elements in this book were a little too old-school.
This caused me to have a flicker of concern, worrying that reliability could easily become predictability- and as much as it pains me to say this, there was a faint whiff of staleness in this installment. Gemma is in a rut- and her only significant role in the investigation had a rusty quality to it. Her boredom jumps off the page so I was happy to see her realize some changes are in order, giving me hope that the next chapter will have a little more of that old spark.
That said, despite seeing a few signs of wear- the series hasn’t faltered just yet- and this is still a very solid effort by Crombie. I always love touching base with these characters, and the book delivered in every way I needed it to. The mystery was interesting, as was the story that developed on the side. As always, I am looking forward to the next chapter in the series- which I hope will come sooner this time- rather than later.
Beach House Memories by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2012 Gallery Books publication.
This bittersweet story takes fans of this series back to 1974 when LoveBeach House Memories by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2012 Gallery Books publication.
This bittersweet story takes fans of this series back to 1974 when Lovey and her two children spend the summer at her beloved cottage on Isle of Palm. Lovey, known as ‘The Turtle Lady,’ takes part in an official study of the Loggerhead turtles with a man named Russell Bennett. With a philandering husband leaving her for long periods of time, Lovey finds a strong connection with Bennett tempting her to risk the life she has built for the type of passionate love her soul is starving for….
As the story begins, we are reminded of Lovey’s ‘current day’ situation, as her memories sweep her away to the past as she awaits the chance to reunite with the love of her life.
Nearly every summer for some time now, I have enjoyed a book by Mary Alice Monroe. It’s a tradition and while the author has other series, this is my very favorite. This year, she did not a release a book in this series. But, as luck would have it, for some reason, as I was reading through the series, I skipped over this one, thinking that because the storyline didn’t involve Cara’s adult dramas, I could always come back and read it later without missing out on anything. Though I have been chided occasionally for ‘reading out of order’- I’m glad I held back on this one.
As always, the turtles play a big role in the story, and it is always a pleasure to be reminded of the great miracle of these fascinating creatures that brought Lovey so much joy. The author captures perfectly the time and place and struggles of women who carried the burden of appearances, duty, and expectations, who suffered and bent under the pressure, but was forced to relent and conform in a time where choices were still very limited.
I was aware, due to reading later installments in this series, that Lovey had known true love in her life, and it added yet another layer of attachment to the cottage and the time she spent there. Yet, I was not prepared for such a gripping emotional story that left tears standing in my eyes.
It is strange that of all the wonderful Rutledge family stories I’ve read nearly every summer for a while now, this one, that has spent years gathering virtual dust on my Kindle, is the one that may have left the biggest emotional imprint on my heart.
The mind often dictates the heart. Yet, I believe that the heart is the truer guide
While the Beach House series may have run its course, or is at my most optimistic, simply on hiatus, this story has reminded me of all the beloved characters that brought me my own wonderful summer memories. I do hope we meet them all again someday…...more
The Hidden Ones by Linda Castillo is a 2022 Minotaur publication.
Kate travels to Pennsylvania to try and help Jonas Bowman, and old Amish friend, withThe Hidden Ones by Linda Castillo is a 2022 Minotaur publication.
Kate travels to Pennsylvania to try and help Jonas Bowman, and old Amish friend, with whom she has a complicated history. Jonas is accused of murdering an Amish bishop whose remains have been found after he disappeared eighteen years ago. The evidence against Jonas is solid, but Kate can’t believe the man she knows would murder anyone and desperately wants to give him the benefit of the doubt.
The more she digs the more information that comes to light, the more nervous some people in the Amish community become, going to far as to send Kate a strong warning that her involvement is not welcome…
This installment is pivotal to the series, in my opinion. We get a glimpse of Kate as a teenager as she works through some past issues that will have an impact on her future. These memories she shares with readers are emotionally intense, and is as crucial to the story as the mystery is.
The mystery, while one can certainly try to guess whodunit and why, remains elusive, slowly unwinding with some unexpected surprises that certainly caught me off guard. I liked the change of location, which is nice every now and I enjoyed the way Kate handled her role as an outsider on all fronts.
I was, as always, mesmerized by the plot, and the atmosphere, which always has a dark quality to it. If you are a fan of this series, you will not be disappointed with this installment!
Once again, I’m reminded of why eagerly anticipate every new chapter in this series- I just wish we didn’t have to wait so long in between installments!
Fallen by Linda Castillo is a 2021 Minotaur publication.
When Kate learns that Rachael Schwartz, a girl she remembers from years ago, has been murdereFallen by Linda Castillo is a 2021 Minotaur publication.
When Kate learns that Rachael Schwartz, a girl she remembers from years ago, has been murdered, she is saddened, but also flummoxed.
Rachael had been a rebellious teen, then chose to leave the Amish life for good. She even wrote a scandalous ‘tell-all’ about the Amish, accusing them of impropriety, permanently severing all ties with those she grew up with, except for her old friend, Loretta, the only person she ever kept in touch with.
So, why had Rachael returned home, and which one of the many she had offended murdered her so violently?
Another tense outing for Kate Burkholder as she copes with her memories of her own Amish upbringing and the shocking names that have popped up on her list of possible suspects.
While the discerning reader can make a few educated guesses about some plot points, the story weaves around to a stunning, spellbinding conclusion.
As always, the atmosphere is unsettling, and taut. Kate’s conflicting emotions pop off the page, as the mystery deepens and points in directions she can’t bring herself to accept.
I was invested in this story from start to finish, and as always, I and am amazed by how well these stories are constructed and executed.
Every time I finish an installment in this series I am reminded of why it is one my favs!
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 Good, the Bad, and the Emus by Donna Andrews is a 2014 Minotaur publication.
The past few weeks I have been required to participate in an unusual The Good, the Bad, and the Emus by Donna Andrews is a 2014 Minotaur publication.
The past few weeks I have been required to participate in an unusual amount of ‘peopling’. Family gatherings, holidays, birthdays, traveling, and taking part in activities I don’t ordinarily engage in. This has resulted, as it always does, in a case of introverted stress, anxiety and crankiness…
Which means it’s time for a cup of hot tea and a Meg Langslow mystery!! Just what the doctor ordered!
Installment number seventeen begins with Dr. Blake- aka Meg’s grandfather- hiring Stanley Denton, to find Meg’s biological grandmother, Cordelia. Unfortunately, Stanley learns that Cordelia is not only dead, but that she died under mysterious circumstances. The local law enforcement seems to feel it was an accident- but Cordelia’s cousin, Annabel isn’t buying that. She’s sure Cordelia was murdered and she’s positive she knows who killed her.
So, Stanley stays on the case, and Meg and Dr. Blake joins him, while at the same time trying to rescue a group of Emus who were released after a nearby Emu farm failed. Dr. Blake naturally uses the opportunity to film all this for television while Meg does some amateur sleuthing…
The humor in this chapter of the series was somewhat subdued, but it was replaced by a more reflective Meg, who is grappling with the reality of losing her grandmother, though she never had the pleasure of meeting her. Her emotions are conflicted, and her melancholy is palpable, though the story retains its usual light tone throughout.
There is a nice little surprise in here- though savvy readers will have figured it out early on- but I loved the way it unfolded and how Andrews ties everything up in the end. As for the murder mystery, it was another solid guessing game, but those fabulous Emus nearly stole the show! Overall, another entertaining adventure for Meg and the gang!
The Attic on Queen Street by Karen White is a 2021 Berkley publication.
Couldn’t have asked for a better series' finale!!
Jack and Melanie have separaThe Attic on Queen Street by Karen White is a 2021 Berkley publication.
Couldn’t have asked for a better series' finale!!
Jack and Melanie have separated, and it would seem Melanie is taking it much harder than Jack. While the movie preparations are taking place, though, Jack is encouraged to move back into the house, with Melanie- at least temporarily.
At first, Melanie is pleased with this development- but soon finds the situation even more untenable, as Jack teases, then pulls away- trying everyone’s patience… including mine!
Meanwhile, Melanie is trying to get her real estate groove back as she continues to work on the case concerning a friend’s missing sister-
While also dealing a spirit that warns, Melanie’s stepdaughter, Nola, to beware a tall man.
If that weren’t enough, she’s got her hands full with twins, a creepy coffin doll, and her old nemesis Marc Longo’s snooping around the house looking for more treasure…
This series has been one of my all-time favorites! It’s a combination of mystery, adventure, and the paranormal, with fun dialogue, create characters, and plenty of family drama, and romance.
The previous installment left me feeling bereft, and I remained worried nearly the entire way through this book, my heart up in my throat, as I began to wonder if one of my favorite book couples would make it or not.
The two mysteries Melanie works to solve are both compelling, and very well-plotted. In fact, the writing here was superb from start to finish!
By the time the final page was turned I had a deep feeling of satisfaction with the way Karen White wrapped everything up for these awesome characters!
Not only that, but a wonderful surprise will give fans an exciting preview into Nola’s future, in one of my favorite book locales. I can’t wait to follow Nola’s adventures and hope we can occasionally receive a few updates from Charleston…
Overall, if you haven’t read this series, I suggest reading the books in order, you’ll be glad you did- but if you don’t have time, at least read book six before starting this one… oh- and grab a few donuts and queue up some ABBA to set the mood!
It is sad to see the curtain go down on this series, but Karen White really did the characters, and the history of Charleston, justice by giving them one heck of a send-off!
Murder with Orange Pekoe Tea by Karen Rose Smith is a 2021 Kensington publication.
While providing refreshments for a Willow Creek homeless shelter fuMurder with Orange Pekoe Tea by Karen Rose Smith is a 2021 Kensington publication.
While providing refreshments for a Willow Creek homeless shelter fundraiser, Daisy learns of a fertility clinic disaster, which dashed the hopes a young couple hoping depending on it to start a family.
Before she can learn more, masked protesters, who oppose opening the shelter arrive on the scene. One of those involved is Eli, a young man who left his Amish community, with some advice from Hiram, his attorney.
It comes to light that Hiram also represents the fertility clinic in question. When Hiram is found dead, Eli becomes a suspect, as do those hurt by the fertility clinic. Despite Daisy’s reluctance to get involved, she is slowly drawn into the investigation.
Meanwhile, Daisy’s family life is as busy as ever, but at a most satisfying stage- as her relationships seem to have stabilized a little- giving her more time to help others, and apply her detecting skills.
This is one of my favorite cozy mystery series. It is always nice to drop in and see what my old friends have up to, and see how everyone is doing. Often times, I would get more caught up in the family saga than in the mystery, but in this installment the mystery was more front and center- and what a mystery it was!!
Briskly paced, fraught with emotion and tension, the dual threads of Eli, and the fertility clinic, kept me engaged and on my toes at the same time.
I enjoyed how the Amish was prominently featured in the story, and as always, the wonderful teas and food. Once more, my affection for the characters have deepened, which is one of the main draws to this series.
I think the mysteries are becoming more complex as the series progresses, and are as deeply compelling as the lives of the recurring characters.
This is another stellar chapter in this beloved series! Can’t wait for the next one!...more
A Simple Murder by Linda Castillo is a 2021 Minotaur publication.
I usually balk at the novellas published in-between full-length novels- even if theyA Simple Murder by Linda Castillo is a 2021 Minotaur publication.
I usually balk at the novellas published in-between full-length novels- even if they are a part of one of my all-time favorite series, for reasons I won’t detail here. That said, when I saw this compilation of Kate Burkholder novellas, I decided to put my qualms aside, mainly because they were part of a collection and not singles.
As per usual when grouping short stories together in one volume, some entries are stronger than others and this collection is no exception. That said, they are all solid stories and worth the read- especially if you are a big fan of the series.
If have heard all the glowing reviews for this series but are daunted by the prospect of starting with book one and trying to catch up- this collection should have enough information from the past to the present to give you enough confidence to jump in anywhere- even some of the most recent installments and go from there.
Overall, this is a solid group of short stories and does the series justice. I’m happy to see them grouped together in a single book- a great idea for old and new fans alike.
The Summer of Lost and Found by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Good old-fashioned southern comfort!
The Coronavirus has the whThe Summer of Lost and Found by Mary Alice Monroe is a 2021 Gallery Books publication.
Good old-fashioned southern comfort!
The Coronavirus has the whole country is its grip, that includes the Rutgledge family.
Because of the virus, the aquarium is closed, so Linnea has been laid off. Because of the financial hit, she's temporarily moved into the beach house- rent free.
Sadly, her boyfriend, Gordon, is stuck in England and can’t travel to the US because of the virus lockdowns, and what’s worse, her former lover, John, is back in town, quarantining at his mother’s house.
Linnea really wishes she could avoid John, but that turns out to be next to impossible, forcing her lingering feelings for him to resurface.
Despite the challenges she faces, Linnea has family and friends to lean on as she navigates her tumultuous feelings for both, Gordon and John. Faced with a difficult choice, Linnea ponders her future, while carving her own path towards personal independence.
It’s not summer without an installment in the ‘Beach House’ series by Mary Alice Monroe!!
This is the first novel I’ve read, miraculously, that incorporated Covid into the plot, making it a part of the landscape the characters had to navigate.
The sobering challenges of job loss, financial strain, family distance, quarantines, and sickness proved that the Rutledge clan still has the temerity to rise to any and all occasions. The characters make mistakes, but as always, they grow stronger through adversity.
Linnea’s personal journey is now the main focus of the series, as Cara moves into more of a secondary character role. I really loved the way Linnea came to understand how she needed to proceed with her personal life. I'm not sure what others will make of her decision, but I thought she did the right thing.
There were, as always, laughter and tears, and heartwarming moments as these characters lives continue to evolve over time. I always look forward, with eager anticipation, to catching up with these beloved characters, both the younger and older generations of the family, the turtles, and the charming beach house that serves as an anchor in challenging times…
Overall, I’m sure writing a book set during the early days of the pandemic, and dealing with some transitional character development, must have been daunting. MAM did a fabulous job with integrating the changes and giving voice to the fears we faced during 2020, spoken through the strong southern Rutledge women, and their commitment to each other, their family, and to their own true selves as well.
Fatal Fried Rice by Vivien Chien is a 2021 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Lana is great at managing her family’s restaurant, but embarrassingly, she Fatal Fried Rice by Vivien Chien is a 2021 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Lana is great at managing her family’s restaurant, but embarrassingly, she does not know how to cook- a shortcoming her sister unfailingly teases her about. Lana is so self- conscious about it, she can’t bring herself to ask Peter to teach her, so she decides to secretly take a cooking class. Her plans go awry when she discovers her instructor dead…. And she becomes a person of interest….
This was another fun installment in the Noodle Shop series. I always love touching base with Lana, her family, and friends. This episode expanded Kimmy’s role a little, and she really brought some humor to the story. Things were a little more tense than usual because Lana is working from a defensive angle, not only trying to find the murderer, but to clear her own name, as well.
Overall, this installment was just the kind of entertaining, comfort read it is supposed to be and is why we all keep coming back for more! Unfortunately, I am now all caught up with the series and must wait until next year for the next installment. ...more
Outsider by Linda Castillo is a 2020 Minotaur publication.
You can’t go wrong with this series!!
Adam, an Amish widower, and his children are out foOutsider by Linda Castillo is a 2020 Minotaur publication.
You can’t go wrong with this series!!
Adam, an Amish widower, and his children are out for a sleigh ride despite the blizzard conditions, when they find a car riddled with bullet holes and a woman half frozen to death. No matter what, it is the Amish way to help people, so he takes the woman back to his place.
When Kate is called in, she finds herself face to face with her former best friend, Gina, a cop who went rogue. Now she’s asking for Kate’s help, but is she trustworthy?
This is another outstanding installment in the Kate Burkholder series!
The blizzard conditions create another layer of suspense as Kate attempts to clear up the murky details about Gina’s predicament. The flashbacks to Kate’s early days as a cop, the special friendship she had with Gina, and the disillusionment that follows when Kate first found out her friend had become a dirty cop, add a tone of nostalgia and melancholy to the story. Will Kate's memories cloud her judgment now?
The Amish elements also play a key part in the story, as Adam deals with his obligations to his faith, while also wrestling with temptation from someone who had no earthly idea of the consequences he and his children would be left to face.
The building suspense kept me glued to the pages, but I never was sure what to make of the situation, who to trust, or what to really believe. The stunning twists and the final showdown is riveting, nail biting stuff!!
5 stars
*Personal note:
I have waffled on writing this for a few days, but decided to offer a little explanation, just so no one thinks I'm ignoring them. I know this won't be seen by everyone, and may not be appropriate to write this here- but I feel I need to get a few things off my chest.
In the last several weeks, we had a death in the family,- my mother in law passed suddenly, and we suffered the loss of a beloved pet who was a part of our family for seventeen years. My daughter's boyfriend was in a serious accident and then tested positive for Covid. He was asymptomatic and none of us contracted it, but he has a long recovery ahead of him. We also had another cat become very ill, he's recovering now- and then a bunch of minor issues, like connectivity issues, and my laptop crashed.
So, as a result, I may have lost track of a few of you and somehow, I have become the only person on earth to 'flunk' Goodreads. I try to respond to each one of you, but I do prioritize those who liked or commented on my reviews. I use Goodreads notifications, via email, to make sure I respond to everyone- and I never do group responses- although there is nothing wrong with that. It is just important to me, to acknowledge everyone, personally, who took the time to leave a comment on one of my reviews.
Sadly, I have gotten behind and lost track of some friends I make an effort to keep up with. Trying to catch up, I may not have liked your most recent review, or always left a lengthy comment. In order to keep up, I don't always have time to write more than a sentence, but it is important to me that you know I appreciate your reviews and the time you took to write one and post it.
Since some people may have taken this personally, I am going to take a step back from Goodreads, and take care of things in my family a little more right now, and enjoy my new kitten- Selina. I am working to answer all emails and get reviews written for all the books I am behind on. I plan to continue to interact with everyone as much as humanly possible, but please understand I may not be able to respond as often as usual for a while. I may not be doing this social media thing correctly, or I may be making it harder than it has to be, but to me, it should be fun and not a chore. If you haven't heard from me, it's not personal. Send me a PM if need be- you never know what's on someone's plate. I am not mad at you, or deliberately ignoring anyone, I promise!
On a slightly different note, we all like different books, and all enjoy this site in different ways. In my opinion everyone should do what they like doing here, the way they like to do it. There is no right or wrong way- or wrong books or genres. I don't read a lot of Young Adult or Science Fiction, for example, but if you enjoy those genres that's fine by me!! I support whatever you enjoy and like- no judgments. I think we should all read whatever makes us happy.
I welcome all likes and comments- period. The newer reviews or older ones- makes no difference to me. I'm not here to win a popularity contest. I'm here to share books with friends, discover new books and authors, maybe help an author get more recognition, and honestly, that's it. But, I get no prizes or awards for what I do here. It's just another way to enjoy books. But, I've been an avid reader all my life- well before Goodreads. I will continue to enjoy books with or without Goodreads, but I hope I can stay on, stress free, and keep all my many friends here. Thanks for your patience!! Take care and be safe!...more
Murder with Clotted Cream by Karen Rose Smith is a 2020 Kensington publication.
An absorbing page turner!
In troubling times, it is often comforting tMurder with Clotted Cream by Karen Rose Smith is a 2020 Kensington publication.
An absorbing page turner!
In troubling times, it is often comforting to turn to something familiar. Some folks binge watch favorite series, others are re-reading favorite books instead of searching for something that will hold their divided, distracted attention. For me, I have found reading new installments in my favorite mystery series to be very calming and cathartic.
This book happens to be the latest chapter in one of my favorite series, and is also an upcoming release- a win-win! I am also happy to report this book not only held my attention, it kept me guessing from beginning to end!
In this fifth installment, Daisy accepts a catering job for Margaret Vaughn, who is hosting a tea for her theatre group. Margaret has recently moved back to Pennsylvania after pursuing a career in acting in New York. Now she is residing, with her millionaire husband, in her historic farmhouse.
Margaret isn’t exactly the warmest person, but when Daisy finds her body in the pantry, covered in clotted cream, she is shocked to the core- believing she might 'never view clotted cream the same way again'…
One of the great things about cozies is that they are 100% pure 'whodunits'. Trying to figure out who the culprit is and what the motive might be amongst the suspects is always challenging and fun. But the other great thing about cozies is checking in on the personal lives of the recurring characters, who over time begin to feel like old friends.
In this episode, Daisy is experiencing some anxiety due to the impending birth of her first grandchild, her mother’s odd behavior, and the prospect of her younger daughter’s first visit with her birth mother and her family.
The author does a magnificent job with balancing the mystery with the family drama. Both threads are interesting and compelling and kept me turning pages past my bedtime. I also appreciate the depth and maturity of this installment, which addresses some important mental health issues, without becoming too heavy. In fact, the writing here is so good, I’d go so far as to say this book would appeal to a broader audience, including those who enjoy contemporary or women's fiction.
The story has a few nice twists and some big surprises you won't want to miss out on.
Of course, it goes without saying, there are some delicious recipes included and I want to try all of them!!
Overall, this is another great addition to what has quickly become one of my very favorite cozy series. You can bet I will be the first in line for the next chapter! I can hardly wait!!
Who Speaks for the Damned by C.S. Harris is a 2020 Berkley publication.
I can’t get enough of this series!
Nicholas Hayes, the third son of the Earl Who Speaks for the Damned by C.S. Harris is a 2020 Berkley publication.
I can’t get enough of this series!
Nicholas Hayes, the third son of the Earl of Seaford was presumed dead after being convicted of murder and sent to Botany Bay. But, apparently, rumors of his demise were greatly exaggerated.
He returns to London, from China, with a young child in tow. Whatever his mission might have been, it must have been very important for him to have taken such a high risk. However, his enemies, who have had much to fear from Nicholas, may have snuffed out his life before he had a chance to exact his revenge.
A scandal, and the threat of long buried secrets coming to light is the last thing anyone wants as the royal families of Russia, Austria and Germany arrives in London to celebrate the defeat of Napolean.
Yet, Sabastian finds himself searching for Nicholas’s murderer, and for the missing child who accompanied him, thanks to his Valet, Jules Calhoun, who was a friend of the victim.
Sebastian’s involvement in criminal cases often puts him in danger, but his time, his beloved wife, Hero, winds up in the crossfire, infuriating Sebastian, making him more determined than ever to unearth the truth and find the vulnerable child Nicholas brought with him from China.
Oh man, this was a good book!! A long -ago scandal that had been hushed up, lovers torn apart by power and greed, a child left alone to survive on the mean streets of London, and a riveting whodunit, is enough to make this story compelling.
However, the stunning revelations, and the social and historical lessons, round out this incredible multi-layered story. Not only that, the personal connotations for Sebastian, who can’t help but notice certain similarities between his life and that of Nicholas'- a sort of ‘there, but for the grace of God’ situation, adds yet another layer of depth to the story. I couldn’t stop thinking about this book!
Is this the best book in the series so far? I probably say that after every installment, but yes, this is one the best, if not THE best!!
If you like historical mysteries, this is a series you will want to invest in. If you are a fan of the series, you want to grab a copy of this one ASAP! You won’t be disappointed!...more
Egg Drop Dead by Vivien Chien is a 2020 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Fantastic! This series just keeps getting better!
Lana’s first catering job isEgg Drop Dead by Vivien Chien is a 2020 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Fantastic! This series just keeps getting better!
Lana’s first catering job is for a fancy dinner party, hosted by Donna Feng. But things go horribly awry when Donna’s Nanny is found dead. Donna once again becomes a prime suspect, and is counting on Lana to solve the mystery, while somehow managing to keep her secrets from coming to light. Lana promises to help, but soon finds herself in way over her head …
If you have been following this series, you’ll remember Donna from the previous installment. She’s an intriguing character and I was happy to see her character return. I’m loving the way Lana is progressing with her sleuthing skills and how realistically she approaches this case, knowing she won’t be able to work this one all on her own.
While part of the charm of cozy mysteries is in touching base with the recurring characters, often times the mystery elements run in the background, and can be a little thin. That’s not the case with this series though. This mystery was very well plotted and almost had the tone of an old-fashioned crime drama. It was really good!
Chein creates a nice balance between the Lana’s sleuthing and her personal life, which complements the series’ fresh contemporary approach to the cozy genre. Overall, I enjoyed this latest installment and am eagerly anticipating the next book in the series.
Shamed by Linda Castillo is a 2019 Minotaur Books publication.
Riveting!
I’m trying to touch base with my favorite crime series this month, and the KaShamed by Linda Castillo is a 2019 Minotaur Books publication.
Riveting!
I’m trying to touch base with my favorite crime series this month, and the Kate Burkholder series is one I never want to miss an episode of- although I admit I sometimes forestall reading them because I hate having to wait so long for the next chapter.
In this eleventh installment, the story gets off to a stunning and shocking start with the violent death of a grandmother and the kidnapping of her grandchild. Kate and Tomasetti view the situation differently, but Kate has a gut feeling and decides to follow it.
Her investigation leads to one of the more isolated Amish communities where Kate discovers that all her previous understandings about the community are called into question. These changes have a profound effect on Kate personally, as her past is so grounded in her own Amish upbringing, and her feelings and responses to that life have been built on these foundations, which now feel shaky and unstable.
The mystery is immersive, complex, emotional, and tense. I could not put his book down!! There are many surprising layers to the story and as always there is a dark, secretive undertone that gives it an unsettling edge.
This is another one of those rare series that keeps getting better and stronger as it progresses. If you haven’t tried this series, I highly recommend it. Although the characters have a long history together, one you may want to explore at some point- you can jump in at any point and enjoy the story. I promise you will be hooked after reading just one of these outstanding mysteries!
Who Slays the Wicked by C. S. Harris is a 2019 Berkley publication.
Well, naturally, I didn’t shed any tears over Ashworth’s demise. Good riddance, ifWho Slays the Wicked by C. S. Harris is a 2019 Berkley publication.
Well, naturally, I didn’t shed any tears over Ashworth’s demise. Good riddance, if you ask me. But the evidence tends to point to Sebastian’s niece, a development that made me as nervous as it did Sebastian.
It then becomes of utmost importance to keep suspicion away from Stephanie, if at all possible, in hopes of finding another viable suspect- of which there are plenty. However, more political intrigue develops when the Russian Grand Duchess arrives in London several months ahead of schedule.
Meanwhile, Hero is doing research on the poorest people of London, which has her interviewing rag and bone pickers and night soil men. Also, Hero finally begins to connect the dots when it comes to her dear, clever and conniving cousin, when a few more interesting details emerge. I can't wait for this thread to develop further!!
As always, there is a lot going on in this latest chapter in the series. As desperately as Sebastian hopes his niece is not guilty, he remains mostly unbiased, occasionally over compensating, following the clues, making calm, yet worrying deductions. He also had to put up with the Russian connection, which quickly becomes more of a personal concern, as Sebastian's inquires are not exactly welcome.
It is hard to find fault in this book anywhere, especially the way Harris weaves the intricate details of this enthralling mystery. But, as a long- time reader of the series, I was a bit disappointed in the chemistry between Hero and Sebastian- and Hero’s reduced role. I, also, at this point in the series, really wouldn’t miss Kat all that much, if Sebastian left off visiting her for a while. Her role in this installment felt more like a contrivance or token appearance anyway.
That said, Hero’s research is eye-opening. As a history lover, I have read about the extremely distasteful occupations the poor acclimated themselves to and the lengths they would go just to survive, but Hero’s research humanizes the poverty- which is extreme, and hard to imagine. These segments may make a few readers feel a bit squeamish- and grateful for modern plumbing. (Although it is worth noting that Rag & Bone men made a resurgence in the 2000’s due to the cost of scrap metal.)
Overall, this was another incredibly tense and deeply engrossing installment in one of my very favorite series!!
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