
Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2322 KP) rated All That is Hidden in Books
Mar 16, 2023
It's always a delight to visit Molly in 1900’s New York City. The time and place come expertly to life as we watch her try to figure out exactly what is happening. As is often the case in this series, it takes a little while for the story to truly begin, but once it does, we are treated to an interesting mystery. One part of the ending was a little abrupt, but that’s a minor complaint. I’m happy to say I liked Daniel here overall, which isn’t always the case, and the rest of the regulars were their charming selves. I also liked most of the suspects, which made solving the murder that much more interesting. Fans old and new will lose themselves in Molly’s latest case.

Mrs. Claus and the Evil Elves
Book
Jessica Fletcher meets Tim Burton in this creative and witty cozy mystery series from Liz Ireland,...

Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2322 KP) rated Hot Pot Murder in Books
Jun 14, 2023
I enjoyed meeting Yale and Celine in the first book in this series, and I’m happy to say they were fantastic once again. Not only does their relationship with each other grow, but they also grow individually, which I enjoyed watching. While the suspects could be a tad stronger, it’s a minor point, and I enjoyed spending time with the rest of the returning characters. The mystery is strong with several great twists, and I loved the way the climax played out. While the majority of the action takes place in a fictional neighborhood in L.A., I enjoyed it when we visited some real parts of the city. There are also two recipes at the end of the book. If you are looking for a cozy with a bit of a different setting and strong leads, you need to check out this series.

Death Checked Out
Book
When in doubt, go to the library...and solve the murder mystery! Greta Plank, library director in...

Malicious Intent
Book
World-renowned Attorney Alexandra Phillips has a knack for turning open and shut cases for the...
medical thriller thriller

A Merry Little Murder Plot
Book
‘Tis the season in Briar Creek, and this year festivities become fatalities in the newest Library...

Mark @ Carstairs Considers (2322 KP) rated A Merry Little Murder Plot in Books
Oct 9, 2024
I always enjoy visiting these characters, and that was no exception. Having said that, I didn’t appreciate the subplot about book banning, mainly because it was just knee jerk storytelling and didn’t have any of the nuance that should be involved in the topic. Still, that was a minor part of a book I enjoyed overall. The plot was great and kept me guessing even about who the victim would be (I went in without reading anything about the plot). The twists kept coming after the murder, but everything made sense at the end. The characters, both old and new, were fun. I laughed quite a few times as I went along. And the festive setting added a nice touch to the book. There are some Christmassy extras at the end. Fans will love this book. Anyone looking for a fun Christmas mystery will be glad they picked this book up.

The Fact of A Body
Book
A young law student, an unspeakable crime, and a past that refuses to stay buried. Before...
Biography memoir true crime

Easter Basket Murder
Barbara Ross, Leslie Meier and Lee Hollis
Book
Put on your springtime best and grab a basket, because Easter egg hunting is to dye for in this...

Midge (525 KP) rated Death Comes to Call (A Tara Thorpe Mystery Book 3) in Books
Mar 2, 2019
In the opening chapter, we are introduced to DC Tara Thorpe who is Cambridge Police’s youngest detective and isn't afraid to step on toes to get results.
When a promising local artist disappears, the victim’s brother begs Tara to take the case. It seems there’s no evidence of foul play… he simply disappeared without a trace.
Tara agrees to investigate however her unconventional approach to policing has upset some of her colleagues, including her former boss DC Patrick Wilkins, currently suspended, but who is prepared to do anything to bring her down. Luckily, she’s on good terms with DI Garstin Blake…
I loved that in “Death Comes To Call,” the sub-plots that explore the detectives’ personal lives run parallel with the murder investigation. Clare Chase writes with flair and an easy style. I thought the characterisation was very well done and I liked the gripping plot, as well as the wonderful depictions of the setting.
All in all, this was a story that held my attention well and I loved that things came together for a great finish and wrapped everything up very neatly.
[My thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for providing me with a free advanced copy of this novel.]