Schooled in Murder (Campus Sleuth Mysteries #1), by Victoria Gilbert

 

Publication Jan. 27, 2025

Since I was a student aide for my college's education department, which was alongside the English department, this one drew me immediately. The first of a new series for author Victoria Gilbert, the main character is a professor as well as the author of a mystery  series. She works with students who want to write but finds there is a bit of a stigma from some higher minded souls when the students want to write, let's say, non-serious material such as romance or, dare I say it, cozy mysteries. Jenn Dalton finds herself in the middle of what could be one of her mysteries when one of her students, Mia, has a confrontation with a professor who, although he finds her talented, has belittled her romance writings as being a waste of her talents. As if that isn't bad enough, the student goes missing just as the snobby professor's body is found in the library....by Jenn. Mystery author or not, Jenn was totally shaken by the experience but with the help of friends is determined to discover the truth. Who killed Professor Doug Barth?

I won't detail the plot but it was fun to see a mystery writer trying to summon everything she knows, or thinks she knows, about sleuthing. She has friends to help, including one who just seems to drive her nuts. If you're like me, having read enough cozies over the years to see it coming, I immediately thought, "Ah, ha, romantic interest". That said, I didn't quite warm up to Jenn immediately. She seemed a bit prickly at times although maybe stand-offish would be a better word choice. I did enjoy the setting, however, and the ease with which her fellow workers jumped in to help her sort it all out. Zach, the psychologist and romantic interest, seemed almost condescending at first but I credited that to Jenn's inability to accept that her reactions were anything but normal and she'd be perfectly fine. The dance around ultimate attraction between them was fun to watch, even if I wondered at times if I'd like either one in real life.

As for the murder, the initial focus is on talented writing student Mia, who goes missing at the wrong time. As it turns out, there are several potential suspects, all complicated by the dynamics of what appears to be professional rivalries and some less than professional actions. That's all I'm saying about that other that Jenn found out reality doesn't always fall into line with creative plot lines. Nor are people always what the appear to be. While I wasn't fully pulled in by Jenn, there's promise to this new series and I'll definitely read the next. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for the early peek into Jenn's literary and new-found sleuthing life.

Death Among the Stitches, by Betty Hechtman

 Publication Jan. 7, 2025

Annie Sara Hart's background may be touched by Hollywood glamour from her father's job as an agent to the stars, but Annie isn't loving it. She works as an assistant of sorts to her father, which largely means keeping Gray's superstar mother happy. When we first meet Gray, it's pretty clear why Annie may not be loving her job. Gray is both demanding and spoiled, used to the best in life, expecting others to be impressed when they find out who her mother is. So, how they heck does Gray wind up in a small town, sleeping in a small cottage and, gasp, actually working to help out? It seems Annie needed a quick influx of cash and Gray's mother needed someone to monitor Gray's diet. Seems her mother expects Gray to fit into basically a size zero pair of jeans to be acceptable in public as her daughter. Yikes. And this is only a small part of the story.

I won't detail the plot as the blurb for this first book in a new series does an excellent job. What I will share is that the characters, and there are quite a few, come across as likable and real people with real lives, not just cut-out characters. Some are quirky, such as mega-perfectionist Patty and Toby, Jenny's seemingly autistic son who does much of the superb baking at the bake shop. Then there's Liv, who appears to be a major character. She's married to a mystery writer Bill and adores having folks over to eat. Then there's Matt Austin, owner/publisher of the local paper, who appears to be a potential romantic interest. Officer Cooper Smith, a former military guy who still seems rigid at times, is one we'll meet early on, too. And, oh, my, I can't forget Jack, the cat, who seems to have some talents that aren't quite explainable yet. I actually found it relatively easy to differentiate characters as the book went along although I did make a list early on and was glad to have it handy at first. This small town seemed to all come out to meet Annie and Gray. My hunch is that, like me, you'll start off rolling your eyes at Gray but wind up liking her by the end. There are definitely layers there, not to mention a sidestory for the future on expectations imposed on the children of stars, such as being stick-thin, in Gray's case. Watching both Annie and Gray slowly, almost apologetically breaking away from their rather controlling parents was fun.

As for the mystery, it appears a former owner of Classy Yarn, the shop Annie inherits from her late uncle, died a rather mysterious death. Not sharing, especially since it takes Annie awhile to get all the details. As it turns out, Eleanor wasn't an easy person to like. Prickly and strict on the rules she set for the knitting group who used the shop. Jack was her cat, however, and seems happy to be back in his known home with Annie thanks to Liv's efforts. There's lots of growth and definitely lots of fun and friendship. Thanks #SevernHouse for this early introduction to Annie, Gray, and the rest. Anyone who enjoys character driven books where the characters are likable and have room to grow in future books, should give this one a read. Heck, you don't even need to knit or crochet. The schoolhouse now Classy Yarn shop sounds delightful and can't wait to explore the town more. But, oh, that ending!

Whipping Up Worry, by Emmie Lyn

 

Publication Jan. 6, 2025

Lots of twists and turns and reminders of how important listening and paying attention to seemingly irrelevant details can be. At times, it was rather like a game of Hide-and-Seek, or maybe Keep Away, but the target is forced to move repeatedly with little or no notice. While it seemed like rather a poorly kept secret of where Claire was, it speaks to the respect most had for Dani and Rose, her grandmother. It was actually fun to see Dani and friends hustle to keep Claire, who'd seen something that put the teenager in danger, just out of the reach of AJ, the detective. Even his girlfriend, Maggie, was working against him! Toss in teen aged angst, missing money, planted evidence, and some fun dogs and there is a great deal to sort out.

I don't want to give away any more of the plot but will note that how the situation impacted relationships, both family and job, was prominent. Jane, the police detective who normally works with AJ is pulled in two directions as it turns out Claire is her niece. And, poor AJ. Not only is Jane involved but his girlfriend Maggie, a PI, is also involved in the maneuvers to keep Claire safe. Much more, but as a fan of character driven books, helped me engage all the more with this book. I will also note that despite her age, Claire is no pushover, either, despite her periodic panics over the stressful situation she finds herself. She's quite clever. We even get to see how Dani manages herself when forced to fire a trial employee, one whose mother has a position of authority. And, of course since Dani runs the Little Dog Diner, there is lots of dog antics and participation throughout. Yeah, Pip.

So, who killed the town manager whose daughter was about to be married? Why is she so determined to go ahead with the wedding? What's the deal with conflicts over wedding plans? How will Dani and friends end this battle of Hide-and-Seek? Oh, so many close moments. What about the missing money? Or, is it really missing? And, who....oh, enough teasers. Thanks to #BookSirens for allowing me this early peek into Dani's world and all the action, chaotic at times, that seems to swirl about it.

Funfair Ferret Fiasco: Ruff McPaw Mysteries #11, by Max Parrott

 Publication Nov. 21, 2024

Angela and David's relaxing, fun trip to the carnival proved to be neither. While in the haunted house, they encounter a very realistic body. Kyle was known for his talent at doing the statue routine, posing without making a move or visible breath, then jumping out at people, but there's no jumping out this time. Kyle is dead. Who killed Kyle?

Angela is on the case, even when all evidence points toward it being a suicide. Fortunately, David is around to help, not to mention he's moved onto the farm with her. Ah, love me some romance in my cozy mysteries. In any case, there are ample suspects, at least in Angela's mind. It takes the Chief awhile to come around but ultimately he does and Angela and Ruff are off on another case. I won't detail it all here but will say that I loved the somewhat spooky but fun atmosphere of the Hummings Hollow Carnival. You'll sense the smells (Ruff's favorite), sounds, colors, lights, and press of the crowd. Will you be brave enough to visit the fortune teller's booth? And, whoa, who let the animals out? And, who is hiding what secrets? Angela seems to be accompanied by David and Officer Kim at times, but Ruff is ever present. Well, when he isn't chasing that ferret, Celeste, while Angela is trying to sort out whether that's graffiti or some coded message. Angela's father even gets into the action briefly while visiting the fair with the family, including Angela's mother who has early onset Alzheimers.

Anglea and Dave are an adorable, very likable couple and, of course, Ruff, is part of the key to the solution. He did seem to be using some innate sense of "Ah, ha, that's it" for some of them, however, as he went straight to the clue. I do love his asides, unheard since he's not a talking dog, sharing his inner thought processes at times, too. I also have to give kudos to the cover creator(s). As always, cute critters and a sense of mischief and humor. Bottom line, enjoyed what is a relatively quick read. Thanks #BookSirens and author #MaxParrott for letting me pop in early to see what is going on in Angela and David's life. The carnival trips were fun...well, except for that one time. Grin.

McCartney Legacy: Volume 2: 1974 - 80, by Allan Kozinn; Adrian Sinclair

 

Publication Dec. 10,2024

Since I haven't read the first volume, I used that as an excuse to procrastinate and watch the Ron Howard produced movie "Eight Days a Week". It helped remind me of all that had gone down beforehand and Paul McCartney's probably state of mind. Good decision. Well, until I opened the digital book and realized it has some 768 pages. Whoa, maybe I shouldn't have taken that extra time before reading. Given my tendency to take pages of notes for myself, I ultimately came to realize that I also needed to put down the pen and just read. So, here's my overall take rather than one picking out details to highlight and discuss.

First, given the length, it's obvious you aren't going to sit down and breeze through this one in an afternoon. That said, the avid Beatles/Paul fan who simply cannot get enough detail and information will surely find this book a goldmine. For me, even as a long time fan of the man and who has read many book on the Beatles and Paul, it was more detail than I could fully take in given the demands of real life, but knowing how avid some fans are, I imagine it will find a market. There are not just details such as in the minutia of finding a new drummer for Wings, but lots and lots and lots of names, some famous, some you'll have at least heard of, and some that, well, were unknown to me. I definitely wasn't aware how woven together the four Beatles were by contracts and Apple, at least the details of it all. Knew it was complicated but not how complicated, let's just say. Although I've been in the studio to observe musician friends record, the details of the various recording session was fascinating although much of the info was well over my head. I did note that Paul wasn't making many friends at the time, even neglecting to give credit to some, some whose names you'll surely recognize. So, you'll sit in on recording sessions, spend some time as a fly on the wall while the McCartney family travels, see Linda taking some lessons, hear what those Paul encountered, such as his chats with Yoko during John's time with May, and what those he worked with (or against) at the time thought, and, well, much, much, much more.

Overall, despite being far more detailed than I could fully take in, I did enjoy the chance to be that proverbial fly on the wall. The chapter titles weren't necessarily perfectly descriptive but gave you a feel for what might be revealed or focused on. I loved the one very early on that was simply "Daddy, Are You Some Kind of Rock Star?" and later, "Holly Days in Scotland". There are photos from the time period, extensive notes, and credits given. So, not a quick, light read, but lots of info for the finding. My thanks to #DeyStreetBooks for allowing me this deep dive into this era of Paul McCartney's life. As a young girl, he was my favorite and while he often doesn't come across as very likable here at times, given the situation and status of his career at the time, no one doubts his talents.

The Cream Tea Killer (Morwenna Mutton Mystery #3), by Judy Leigh

 

Publication Jan. 4, 2025

Morwenna Mutton is one of those amateur sleuths that I find both intriguing and maddening. She's smart and clever about sorting out clues but, well, sometimes doesn't show much common sense in how she gets them. This go-round, she finds her snooping may put not just her but those she loves in danger, too. That's one angle you don't see often in cozy mysteries, the fact that an even semi-intelligent murderer might not hesitate to harm your loved ones if you get too close, so kudos to Judy Leigh for going there. Morwenna is also almost 63 year-old, so she's hardly got youth as an excuse. Even more amazing, she seems to be on friendly working terms with Jane, the local investigator, so her habit of not sharing until she finds out just one more thing, so to speak, seems foolhardy.

Nonetheless, Morwenna is determined to see justice done, using her wits and smarts to find out, in this case, who killed radio DJ Irina. She's told Morwenna she was on the verge of uncovering something important but didn't share. You guessed it. She had one more thing to verify before sharing. Bad move. They plan to meet the next morning. Irina is a no-show. Initially Morwenna doesn't think too much about it, expecting she'd been detained, but when her efforts to locate Irina prove fruitless, she pretty much begins investigating without much thought. That's when the trouble... and danger.... begins. Irina's body is found washed up along the shore near where Morwenna and a group of avid swimmers meet to share their love of the sport, even when the water is frigid. Brr. Cornwall isn't exactly a tropical spot in England. In any case, she's pushy and has the help of Ruan, her ex-husband who just happens to live across the street. There's a love-triangle of sorts involved, too, although quite frankly, I'm on Team Ruan. All that aside, putting herself into some dicey situations, usually with Ruan along, Morwenna slowly uncover the secret Irina died without revealing.

I won't detail any more of the plot but it was far more intricate than expected. I liked Morwenna although, sigh, a little bit of her, oh, so talkative grand-daughter went a long way. Toss in Morwenna's  attraction to Barnaby, a monied plastic surgeon, while obviously harboring feeling for Ruan wore on me. I like Ruan's calm, always-there-for- her presence. That said, I didn't dislike even the annoying grand-daughter, who desperately wants a real dog, but just wished for less of her. Seal Bay seems an intriguing place, full of interesting characters, and, oh, yes, there's that little matter of whether the library Morwenna works at is haunted. Louise, a friend and co-worker, is on Team Ghost, I'll note. And let's not forget Brenda, the cat, who seems to have the ability to sleep peacefully through almost everything, even gun shots. Bottom line, an intriguing multi-level mystery with likable, interesting characters, even if I do think I'd pass on the swimming sessions. And, oops, almost forgot, thanks #BoldwoodBooks for not only allowing me an early peek at Morwenna's latest adventures but including that handy glossary of terms. I'm happy to say that I didn't much need it as they mostly made sense, but was handy to have.

The Incident of the Book in the Nighttime (A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery #10), by Vicki Delany

 Publication Jan 14, 2025

Life is never dull when Gemma Doyle is around. In London for her sister Pippa's wedding, she manages to get embroiled in not just a murder investigation but a high profile international event and, uh, oh, yes, a bar room brawl. And, not just any ol' bar room, mind you, but one with royal and well-known faces. And, why? Something to do with a book that may or may not exist. 

I've come to like Gemma far more as the series has progressed. I'm not sure if that means I've mellowed or Gemma has, though she does seem to make a more conscious effort to think of others now than she once did. Oh, she's still laser focused and determined but does seem to have added a layer of being aware that others just don't operate on her time schedule or priorities. I do grin at her efforts to tolerate Donald Morris's fixation on all things Sherlock Holmes to the exclusion of almost everything else, but he does prove a courageous ally when push comes to shove, as does Jayne. Let's just say, never mess with a woman with an overloaded purse. Boyfriend Ryan is somewhat shunted to the side for a fishing trip but does get into the action at times. I enjoyed spending time with them all, even Donald, and meeting some new faces along the way. We also get a grand tour of London, including its famed shopping district thanks to the fact Gemma's luggage didn't quite make the trip on her schedule.

As for the murder, I found it rather sad. The victim is Gemma's ex-husband Paul, who has fallen on hard times. I won't give away more of the plot but will note he asks Gemma to come have a look at a book, a special book, and that alone pulls her into investigating his death. Of course, she doesn't call it an investigation. She's merely asking questions, you see. As it turns out, there are ample suspects, some of them related to Gemma. She doesn't let that detour her, of course. As for danger, let's just say Ryan's fishing trip was the calm before the storm as he attempts to have Gemma's back. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for letting me make an early virtual trip to Pippa's wedding just in time to see Gemma in actions. Boy, given how Pippa's wedding day evolved, I can only imagine how what any wedding day for Gemma might be like.

Mrs. Morris and the Venomous Valentine (A Salem B&B Mystery), by Traci Wilton

 

Publication Dec. 24, 2024

One of the most unique love triangles around. Charlene Morris has two beaus. One is Sam, detective with the Salem Police. The other is Jack, a doctor. I like them both. Only one problem. Jack is dead. Jack is a ghost. He's charming, thoughtful, and cares for Charlene, however, even foregoing the chance to "go to the light" in a past book in order to stay with her in his former home. Charlene cares for him and goes out of her way not to hurt him as her feeling for the very alive, handsome Sam grow stronger. Well, when she isn't busy solving murders.

This time, it's a demanding guest at her B&B who is killed. Dane Stallone is a photographer trying to make a come-back. He's arranged a stay at the B&B for himself and his twelve models. Twelve. Get it? A calendar but a wildly creative, artistic one. Quite frankly, the models chatter, part idle chit chat but mostly them carping or complaining about something, usually Dane, would have given me a headache in real life. Amazingly, they don't hold throttle down their feelings even afterward when the police are present. Unfortunately for Charlene, Sam isn't on this case and the investigating detective is not at all fond of her. Nevertheless, she keeps asking probing questions while trying to help the models with their problem. I won't detail that huge fear and problem but will remind you that this is set in Salem, Witch City, which was Dane's hometown. What was in those contracts? Would one of them have killed him to get out of them? Or would that have even helped? 

Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoy my visits with Charlene, even when the guests are less than ideal. At least they were nice to look at, I guess, and as their back stories emerge, I came to like most of them. Adam was my favorite. It was nice to have Avery pop in, even if she did wind up in the hospital for her efforts. Sam wasn't as involved, not being his case, but was definitely there as support and, oh, boy, that final chapter. I can't wait to see where that goes and how it'll all work out between Charlene and the "I don't believe in ghosts" Sam. And, let's not forget Silva, the cat. and housekeeper/cook Minnie Johnson who seems to be a marvel at improvising, especially for a large group that shuns calories. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing - #KensingtonCozies for allowing me to drop into Charlene's B&B without a reservation. We do get to see how difficult, not to mention, expensive, juggling reservations can be, too.

Flirting with Alaska (Moose Falls, Alaska #2), by Belle Calhoune

 

Publication Dec. 10, 2024

The need to protect yourself can also shut out joy. 

This book picks up near where the first one ended. The three Stone brothers are celebrating the engagement of their older brother Xavier to True in their own inimitable way. Then middle brother Caleb spots Sophia. Boom. Instant attraction. What he doesn't realize at the time is that it's mutual but, well, it's also complicated. Sophia, photographer for the event, has been hurt before and has a four year old daughter that is "the love of her life" and Sophia isn't looking for romance. Actually, Caleb isn't really looking either, his Hollywood dream is still supreme, but, well, he's attracted. He follows Sophia to the attic when she goes there to retrieve an old camera Hattie, who brought the Stone brothers home in response to a plea given her oncoming death, has given her. Caleb is used to being able to charm women almost effortlessly but it isn't working on Sophia. I won't give away what changes that, well, at least allows her to warm up to his ways, but it might be classified as a meet cute, albeit rather itchy one for Caleb.

A closed door romance, actually almost chaste, this is a sweet one. You ultimately know they'll come together in the end but the fun is in watching them overcome the obstacles before the finish line. While the book works as a standalone, if you have the chance, reading the first book will give you more insight into the situation the independent find themselves. As an Alaskan, I'm always up for an Alaska based read, so while this one didn't knock off my socks, it was still a pleasant, light read that I enjoyed. The characters were likable and some relationships carried over from the first book show advancement, too, including the parental characters. Sophia is cautious, putting her daughter first, and also has to deal with 4-year old Lily's father, who seems to take two steps backwards for every step forward he makes in that relationship. Bottom line, though, he does love his daughter, so I cut him some slack. The relationship between Caleb and Sophia is relatively open and honest although Sophia's innate need to protect both herself and her daughter from further hurt keeps her from throwing caution to the wind and just accepting the relationship Caleb seems to offer. He has his own regrets, of course, and it was nice to see him bonding with family. Hattie....I cannot say enough about her. Her strength is what seems to hold everything together and it's delightful to see her happy in her remaining years. Other characters flit in and out but these are the core of the story. The ending is cute and romantic, too.

Bottom line, while I questioned a few things as an Alaskan myself, the book overall holds together and the characters were likable. I think in real life I'd avoid spending much time with the boisterous Stone brothers together but that doesn't make them any the less likable. If you like sweet, closed door romances, you'll probably like this one and you're almost sure to love Hattie. Thanks #Forever - #GrandCentralPublishing for allowing me to share some of the Stone Brothers Alaska, even if I still haven't sorted out the area where Moose Pass must be located.

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.