Booked for Murder (An Old Juniper Bookstore Mystery, #1), P.J. Nelson

 

Publication Dec. 10, 2024

I had a mixed feelings about this book. I didn't love it but also didn't dislike it. There is a lot of potential here for a series. We meet Madeline Brimley and things start happening almost immediately. That was rather fun, actually, even if I had no real clue why things were happening. Nor did Madeline. She's barely walked into the house when a fire starts in a gazebo in the garden. Rather than call the fire department immediately, for reasons you'll learn, she sets out to put it out in her not so efficient way. When she does finally call the fire department and is being asked routine questions, she immediately feels she's being accused of setting the fire herself and is rather confrontational. Then, much to my surprise, she pretty much just goes off to bed. Tired or not, that struck me as odd. Even weirder, even after receiving a threatening phone call later that same night, she decides to just ignore the call. She's telling herself it was just a prank but, well, just seemed odd. 

I can't say I immediately disliked her but I certainly wasn't warming up to her. And that was even before the murder. I don't want to detail any more of the plot, which for the most part moves along quickly, but will say that while I warmed up somewhat to Madeline as it went along, she still left me more puzzled than charmed. Most likely, most of my questions will be answered in the next book since this definitely seems to be setting up a series. Philomena, a college professor, and Gloria, the pastor of the local Episcopal church become her support team, so to speak, although neither is fully fleshed out, leaving us much to discover in future books. 

As for the murder, it takes Philomena to make Madeline realize that the killer probably meant to kill her, not her college-age bookshop helper. So, it all becomes personal. And, in her seemingly dramatic way, Madeline sets out to investigate. That seems to largely translate to jumping quickly from one conclusion to the other. As the plot unfolds. we are reminded that bad things happen everywhere, even in small towns and learn that this small town has many secrets, including those of her late Aunt Rose. I lean toward feeling we only discover a few of those secrets this go-round, so buckle up for more to come. Seriously, despite being perplexed by Madeline as a character, I see much potential in this series. The supporting cast is interesting, especially the inclusion of a pastor, and, hey, there's also Cannonball, the bookshop cat who you'll see more of as you read. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for this early intro to Madeline and the rest.  Loved the small town Georgia setting.

Death at an Irish Wedding (An Irish Castle Mystery #2), by Ellie Brannigan

 

Publication Dec. 10, 2024

Secrets are rarely good, especially in cozy mysteries. In this case, there are so many secrets floating about that I almost felt like I needed a scorecard. Wow, I definitely didn't see that twist coming at the end. While I wasn't wowed by this book, I enjoyed it. The main characters, Rayne McGrath and her cousin Ciara Smith are both interesting, likable women. They come from very different worlds, Rayne from the fast pace of Rodeo Drive fashion while Ciara has spent her time in Ireland. Both bring different strengths and weaknesses to their shared goal, however, of keeping McGrath Castle productive and thus helping support the village. They have a year to make a profit or lose it all according to terms of Rayne's grandfather's will. Rayne thinks her prayers may have been answered, however, when Hollywood comes to call in the form of two stars seeking a remote, secretive place to marry. Things seem ti be looking up but, oops, then there's a murder. 

That's when the story takes off. I won't detail the plot other than to say there are secrets galore, the unexpected, villagers in not-so-secret rebellion, a lost diary, an adorable dog, quaint pubs, carriage rides, gunshots, jealousy, an escaped prisoner, and, well, that's just the basics. The side stories were just that, kept to the side. I felt a bit deflated that one of them seemed to be building to a climax of some sort than....nothing. I assume it will be continued in the next book but just found it annoying. Through it all, however, Rayne proves highly resourceful with the help of Ciara and the castle regulars. Even Blarney, the dog on the cover, gets a moment to shine. 

Bottom line, an okay book but it didn't quite hit a home run with me. That said, I loved the cover, liked Rayne and was happy to see Ciara and her working together this go-round instead of at odds with each other. It definitely kept me wondering what was going on with the wedding party the entire rime and the big reveal, with everyone brought together, was well done. The virtual tour of the castle was fun, too, and with so much left still hidden away, I expect to hear more about it's medieval furniture and objects as the series goes along. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for allowing me this early, quick visit to an Irish castle to catch up with the efforts of Rayne and Ciara to save McGrath Castle. What a lovely setting for a wedding.

A Midwinter Murder (A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery #20), by Verity Bright

 

Publication Dec. 4, 2024

I love books that are character driven. This mystery had a solid, puzzling murder mystery but it was the characters that made it sparkle. The relationship between Eleanor, excuse me, Lady Eleanor Swift and those about her is a delight.Not born to her title, Eleanor is a generous friends to all, no matter what their status. In fact, she goes out of her way to bring them joy. That's why her staff is at the reclusive Duke's holiday gathering with her. Unfortunately, boyfriend Hugh won't be there until the next day when, as it turns out, she has a probably highly unwanted surprise for him. That said, the natural, witty flow of dialogue between Hugh and Eleanor, not to mention butler Clifford, seems to flow, leaving me wanting more. I definitely want to know more about Clifford. Is he psychic or something? I mean, the man seems to know what is wanted and needed almost before they do, not to mention his expertise in, well, just about everything continues to amaze. Thanks to him, we learn a bit about the stately art of shooting, to how it's judged to how the clay targets are prepared. Young Constable Danby, new to the cast, but shows potential as both detective and as a possible romantic interest for one of Eleanor's ladies. I'll be lookinng forward to more of him in future books. 

As for the murder, it happens rather quickly and unexpectedly early on. Eleanor and her entourage have barely had time to disembark and check out their lodgings at the Duke of Auldwyke's estate when his secretary, Porritt, is killed. What happened during that mere eighteen minute gap? As it turns out, there are several suspects, all invited for the shooting contest, but, how odd, none of them seem to have actually met the Duke, including Eleanor. She was simply hoping to take advantage of the lovely Yorkshire setting to spend some holiday time with Hugh. She will definitely have a surprise for him and it isn't just that they're expected to take part in a shooting contest which is to go on despite the murder under some odd but very strict rules. I won't detail the plot further but it kept me guessing and held my interest until the end. The setting definitely sounds lovely, both the estate and interiors and clothing choices, as well as some intriguing sites encountered during explorations. I enjoyed the rather locked room feel of the plot, which is added to when a blizzard arrives and the phone lines go down. 

Enough teasers. Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this one and am already looking forward to the next. It was fun to see how quickly and efficiently Eleanor's lady friends created a true Christmas for all involved. And, while the book works well as a standalone, long time readers will surely love the ending. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me an early peek into Eleanor's Christmas with both friends and strangers. 

Murder in Season (A Lady of Letters Mystery, 3), by Mary Winters

 Publication December 3, 2024

In public, Amelia Amesbury is the proper English Lady of 1860 England. She has a secret, however. Well, perhaps more than one. The biggest secret is her identity as columnist Lady Agony. As such, she offers some frequently not-so-discreet advice to those who write in for advice. You know, hardly the thing a Lady of that time would think, let alone vocalize. She could use some advice herself this go-round, however. First, advice on how to handle her beautiful, unpredictable sister who arrives unannounced to be sponsored for the season. Seems Madge has run into a few problems back home, one of which involved leaving a not-so gentlemanly wannabe suitor with a broken arm. I'd say Madge is not to be trifled with. For that matter, Amelia could use some sage advice on her own romantic yearnings. Seems she just can't quite budge Simon from the friend zone into suitor material. Then there's the little matter of a male guest that becomes ill at the ball given for Madge and later dies.  Toss in a jewel thief absconding with some valuable family jewels from various residences and Amelia's amateur sleuth persona is about to be very busy. And, oh, did I mention that the man that died had words with Madge just before coming ill? That only adds to the problems Amelia is trying to juggle.

I won't detail the plot further other than to say there are other, actually far more viable suspects than Madge. But, well, seems to Detective in charge has it in for the Amesbury family. Toss in what we'd consider quaint standards of behavior, what society members find proper and improper, and family pressures and Amelia can't seem to catch a break. Those used to somethings happening every second plot speed may find this one quite slow but it's actually quite nice to relax into the pace of the 1860s. I liked the characters, even stern, rigid Aunt Tabitha, who is a force to be reckoned with when she assumes her mantle as Lady Tabitha, that's for sure. Simon is solid, albeit could be the poster boy for slow burn romances. Madge, oh, boy, she is personality plus. Outgoing, far more physically able than the typical female of that era, and can't always seem to rein in her impetuous mouth. There are more, actually lots more, which does always seem to take me a bit to sort through them given the use of both titles and names. What can I say, I felt like I needed a cast of characters at times. 

Bottom line, an enjoyable if slow read. The setting was well done and I felt like I was strolling the park with characters more than once, and the descriptions of both the clothing and physical appearances were well done. And, oh, some of the clothing. I'm the sort that doesn't much like dressing up but it'd sure be fun to see, wouldn't it? As to whodunit, I didn't really sort it out until the reveal for sure, so it kept me guessing. And, oh, do be sure to read the epilogue. Thanks #SevernHouse for letting me take an early time-travel trip back to 1860 London. It was fun and I found myself enjoying the characters and their lives/adventures, both of which gave me an idea of the difference between the haves and have not groups. The traces of humanity from all were well done and heartwarming at times.

The Silver Haired Sisterhood, by Judy Leigh

 

Publication Dec. 2, 2024

A quote that pops up frequently online goes something like, "You have only one life to live. You might as well do something with it". It always seems to be attributed to a different person, so I have no clue who really said it first but it's universal, so guess it doesn't matter. Judy Leigh's "The Silver-Haired Sisterhood" echoes that theme, that life is meant to be lived. The four characters in it, with Tess and Della being the focus, embrace that attitude despite age and all that comes with it. As they know and are reminded, much joy can also come with it. It's okay to be old. Yes, people may seem to look through you but that doesn't mean you have to be invisible and fade into the background, either. This is a delightful and heartwarming reminder to us all to live with hope and joy, reaching out for new experiences and to those who make up the family we create. 

I won't detail the plot as the blurb does an excellent job but will note that the characters are wonderfully fleshed out and distinct. While I haven't read it, I gather that there's a previous book with these same characters that I'm definitely going to have to find. While the characters don't downplay the problems of aging, loss of mobility, losing loved ones, health issues, and such, the positives shine through them, even when they themselves aren't quite feeling it 100%. To me, that actually made them all the more real. The dialogue seemed to flow naturally, chatter you'd hear while sitting with friends or simply listening to others about you. It was wonderful to see Tess and Della find joy and purpose during their somewhat impulsive trip to Skye in hopes of relaxation and seeing the Northern Lights. As I just had the joy of seeing them above my home here in Alaska recently, that goal made me smile in anticipation. 

They also reach out to help others and create new relationships, all the better when they are surprised with visitors. Will they see those magical lights dancing in the sky? Well, I'm not telling but you'll definitely enjoy this book if you love character driven books. There's so much more to the story but, well, you just need to read it. Thank you #BoldwoodBooks for the early introduction to this wonderful, optimistic sisterhood of women (and the glossary at the beginning). No matter what our ages, we should all be half as full of life and up for adventure and "What's next?" as they are.

Dog Kisses and Danger (Heywood Hounds Cozy Mysteries Book 6), by Carly Winter

 

Publication Nov. 14-2024

Gina is great with dogs but not so great with avoiding being involved in murder investigations. This time, however, the temporary police chief seems to be doing everything he can to get her involved without actually doing the asking. Why? Because there's been a murder right smack dab in the middle of the election for a new police chief and boyfriend Trevor seems to be the top suspect as he was one of the candidates running to be police chief. But, why would someone murder the ballot counter? Would that really stop an election, or at least generate another voting period? Gina is determined to prove Trevor's innocence even if she has to investigate Shane Sheridan, the other candidate. Or the victim's husband. Or…a ghost? Or....well, you get my drift. She's even willing to ask some of her, hmm, less savory family and friends to help. 

In addition to the stress of a personal murder investigation, Gina has also taken on another abandoned dog. Since not only is Daisy a talking dog (how/why Gina understands her is briefly detailed), she not only talks but has a lot to say. Fortunately, Daisy is able to discover the dog, a seemingly well-trained German Shepherd, is named Wolfgang. The dog is a saint. He even tolerates hyper, always eager to be loved Daisy's moments. Daisy for Dictator?

But, back to the murder. Nope, not detailing the plot, but will say that, as usual, Gina dives in headfirst. She's always been quick tempered and her patience level isn't much better, albeit she's maybe reined it in a bit for Trevor's sake. Her investigative methods aren't the norm, either, but she does seem to get results, even when they're not necessarily the ones she expected. I found it amusing that she thought Trevor seemed to overreact at times, given her tendencies. Does she put herself into dangerous situations? Oh, definitely, but you already guessed that. She has some unorthodox help this time, too, but, nope, not sharing that, either. Well, at least they promised not to kill her...this time. 

Bottom line, a fun, quick read that I enjoyed. If I understood the author's words right, it sounds like this may be the end of Gina and Daisy's adventures or, at the very least a pause. My thanks to #BookSirens and the author for giving me a sneak peek at the election and aftermath. While I thought Gina was often rash and impetuous, I enjoyed her (and Daisy's) antics and hope the author will give us a peek into what's going on in Heywood occasionally. I'd really like to see how Wolfgang's new career plays out. Daisy may make us happy but hopefully Wolfgang has found his purpose, too. Treats for both Daisy and him.

The Petectives: The Grilled Cheese Caper

 

This was a cute, goofy read that will keep young readers guessing. As both a mystery fan and dog person, I was drawn to this one by the whimsical cover showing the two Petectives, Purrlock and Marlowe. Purrlock is a hoot, seemingly equal parts obsessed with supposed nemesis Meowierty and food. The illustrations are fun and help share some of the backstory, including Purrlock’s role on the football team. Marlowe sorts it all out while reminding Purrlock that his obsession with Meowierty isn’t quite what he remembers. Readers will have fun following this pair around.

Note: I have no clue when or even if this one will be available. The original publication date was March 2025 but has been changed to 2080. Yes, '80. As a result, I'm posting no names here of publisher until I receive some clarification. 

Madrigals and Mayhem(The Cambridge Bookshop Series #4), by Elizabeth Penney

 

Publication Nov. 24, 2024

Dolls and doll houses and not-so-nice family members are dominate themes throughout. A new toy store is opening near Molly's bookshop and Molly is determined to make Charlotte, the store's owner, welcome. Molly and her mother operate the Thomas Marlowe-Manuscripts and Folios bookstore and she's quick to see where she can tie her shop into not only the Christmas season but with Charlotte Pemberly's shop, which she inherited from her grandfather. Molly is immediately charmed by an intricate dollhouse which comes to play a role of sorts in the story. She's not so happy to stumble across and nearly dead man in the toy shop's back room. Seems Barnaby has been poisoned by sweet treats supposedly from Molly's friend Daisy's shop. Needless to say, both Charlotte and Daisy are suspects. As it turns out, there's a long list of suspects, many related to Charlotte's grandfather, Arthur.

I won't detail the plot, which seems to focus on the disappearance of a valuable collector's doll, and the hostility of the family to Charlotte. They believe she's stolen their inheritance. Of course, there is much more to the story, including family squabbles, budding romances, playful pets, and the delightful scenes of Cambridge during the holiday season. Heck, Molly, despite some initial stage fright, even gets involved in a madrigal. She has an alternative motive, however. Well, beside doing it with boyfriend, Kieran. In the process of trying to sort of the murders, yes, plural, you'll learn quite a bit about not just Christmas in England but the history of doll houses. For instance, Queen Mary's Doll House in Windsor dates to the early 1920's and was a gift at a time doll houses were not cheap. Think pre-mass production methods.

Bottom line, while a bit mystified by Molly's immediate obsession with the investigation since she'd barely met Charlotte, I enjoyed the book. Loved their secret code. Grin. The characters, even the not-so-nice ones, are fairly well-rounded and the regulars, of course, continue to evolve and become only more likable. Molly's family ties are complicated but we see that relationship evolving, too. The pets are even nicely rounded although I won't share their antics here. As for whodunit, I sort of knew but didn't know, which makes little sense until you read the book. Give it a read. It flows and is well written with great characters in a lovely setting. My thanks to #St.Martin'sPress - #Minotaur for giving me an early peek at Molly and Kieran's first Christmas in Cambridge. Heck, we even got to spend some time hobnobbing with students at college.

Murder in New York (A Miss Underhay Mystery #18), by Helena Dixon

 

Publication Nov. 25, 2024

Set in a less hectic time, readers wanting a somewhat leisurely read will enjoy this mystery set in New York City during Christmas, 1936. Kitty and husband Matt receive a telegram in England telling them her NYC based father is ill. Although her relationship with her father is, well, complicated, they're on a ship heading to New York. The voyage isn't a smooth one but when they arrive, they discover her father not only living in an upscale apartment overlooking Central Park, but that he's far from seriously ill. Nevertheless, the decide to spend the holiday there, enjoying all 1936 NYC has to offer. They're enjoying the scenery, which includes ice skating and a lovely tree, not to mention the shopping and delicious food to be had. Then, there's a murder. 

This is really where the story begins. Kitty knows her father is occasionally, well, frequently involved in less than lawful activities and fears he may be accused. That said, as much as I enjoy Kitty and Matt, it seemed like the investigation was largely Kitty snooping rather than professional. I've got to admit that I was somewhat disappointed in that as I was thinking it'd be interesting to see the contrasting styles of American and British investigators of the time, not to mention seeing how they might work together (or not). Hence a 3.5 rounded to 4 stars. In any case, as Kitty surely knows by now, trying to eavesdrop can get you in trouble. Matt's skills come into play, too, and we're reminded of his past injuries in the war and how they may impact his efforts. I'd forgotten he once routinely suffered from sleep walking, for instance, which explains Kitty's worry when he isn't beside her when she wakes in the night. In any case, they're a likable couple and even her father, while rather furtive at times, seems likable enough. Unfortunately, not all the people they meet are the same and it's up to their smarts and instincts to sort out whodunit.

Bottom line, a pleasant read. While more leisurely than more modern cozies, after all, this one is set in a pre-techie time when communications and police work were slower in nature, it's difficult not to like this young, adventurous couple. I liked that the author included some of Matt's background and felt this one worked as a standalone. I honestly wasn't sure of the culprit until the end, either, which is always fun, if frustrating for those of us who try to solve it before our sleuths. Thanks #Bookouture for giving me an early peek at how life is going for Kitty and Matt. It was great fun to visit and tour NYC in a far less hectic, complicated time. I could just envision the colorful lights, figure skaters, and sights and sounds of 1936 New York City.

Sisters Making Mischief, by Maddie Please

 Publication Nov. 22, 2024

Joyful and inspiring. While written about a senior aged woman, there is much in this book that can serve as inspiration for any age, male or female. Joy starts the story stressed, trying to provide her children and their families with the perfect family Christmas. That doesn't go well. Joy soon comes to the realization that while she's growing older, she isn't growing older happily. She decides a trip to France to spend some time with her more spontaneous, enjoy the moment type sister. Isobel is a delight, full of humor and genuine love for her husband Felix, who runs a book shop, and Joy gradually comes to realize that her priorities had included everyone but herself. That's where the story really begins to take off.

It's a delight. Not because it's easy, but it's wonderful to see someone not only realizing all they have allowed themselves to miss out on but taking action to make changes. I won't detail the plot other than to say that it was fun, full of humor and adventure. Even Isobel, already living her best life, finds a path to making it even happier with Joy's more disciplined focus and ideas. Joy finds....well, I doubt I'm giving away anything to say she finds the possibility of second love. She also learns to tolerate rambunctious, fun-loving dogs, Marcel and Antoine, who have distinct personalities, too. I mean, while Joy's adventures, or should I say misadventures (wait until you see what she does to a Chanel outfit, borrowed at that), provide humor, some of the scenes involving the dogs made me chuckle aloud. Let's just say, leaving their footprints in newly poured cement and Marcel's frustration at trying to get a too long branch through a too narrow opening will make dog owners everywhere grin.

So lots of humor and lovely descriptions, but it is the message of living every moment that will resonate most with readers. As a senior myself, I found myself unconsciously nodding as Joy sorts out where she lost herself and how to find her way. Her bucket list is definitely interesting. While I have no interest in some of the items, I took notice of her repeated idea of not having to make things perfect for everyone else. It's a big moment when she finally removes her wedding ring, signaling openness to a new relationship with the initially rather mysterious Luc. In fact, some of the early humor is of everyone conjuring up ideas of his past, Isobel's mother-in-law seeming convinced he is a medical doctor. Uh, well, maybe not, Eugenie, but he may be the answer to what ails Joy. What a delight to see the very realistic relationship develop between them, slow, stumbling build and all. 

Bottom line, I loved this book and am wondering how I have managed to miss Maddie Please books before this one. I will definitely be remedying this soon, I assure you. Thanks so much #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to Joy, Isobel, Felix, Eugenie, Luc, and, yes, those fun ones. I appreciate the early look and will be avidly looking for anything else from Please. Loved the virtual trip to France, that's for sure, and the imaginative glimpses into Joy's thoughts. I'm pretty sure I'd want to be her new best friend if she were a real person. It was wonderful to see her take charge of her own life.