Another Delightful Agatha Raisin Adventure – “Dead Before Tea Time” Delivers the Goods!

 

It’s always such a treat to see another Agatha Raisin adventure hit the shelves, especially when it lands right around my birthday in October. I’ve been reading this series for so long that I’ve come to expect (and eagerly await) that fresh hardbound copy as my annual gift to myself. After so many books, it’s easy to worry that a long-running series might lose its spark, but R.W. Green has once again proven he’s more than up to the challenge. Dead Before Tea Time (the 37th installment) is an absolute delight from start to finish.

 What I loved most was how much of the classic Agatha we get in these pages—the wonderfully flawed, opinionated, laugh-out-loud Agatha we fell in love with in the earlier books. She’s still gloriously human, and Green captures that perfectly. One of my favorite scenes had me chuckling:

 “She parked at the edge of the embankment, checked her hair and make-up in the car’s sun-visor vanity mirror and went to open the door, but it wouldn’t budge. It was stuck again. Slapping the door with the palm of her hand didn’t help, and neither did threatening it, bumping it with her shoulder or calling it all sorts of words that would certainly have made Jane Austen blush. Finally, she leaned away from the door to swing her whole upper bodyweight behind one mighty shoulder charge. The door sprang open and she shot out, landing full length on the grass and rolling, out of control, down the embankment. She came to rest on a narrow path and lay there for a moment, staring at the ground, catching her breath.”

That’s pure Agatha Raisin magic—dignity attempted, chaos achieved. I can so relate.

 It was also wonderful to see the whole gang back in full force. I’ve grown to love all the recurring characters equally, so I’m never happy when Charles, James, Roy, or the rest of the team get sidelined. In Dead Before Tea Time, they’re all front and center, and it makes the story feel rich and satisfying. The romantic tension between Charles (who’s wheedling his way back into Agatha’s good graces) and James is as entertaining as ever, especially during the 17th-century battle reenactment that turns into the scene of a murder.

 The plot itself is a winner. Agatha’s peaceful Cotswolds village is thrown into uproar when the beloved Red Lion pub — the heart of the community (along with the church, as Mrs. Bloxby is quick to point out) — is threatened with closure. The brewery has jacked up the rent to convert the space into apartments, and the villagers are scrambling to fight back. Of course, Agatha and her Raisin Investigations team can’t just sit idly by.

 What starts as a campaign to save the local pub quickly turns into a full-blown murder investigation after a body turns up near the battleground. As usual, the police are less than helpful (read: DCI Wilkes), so it’s up to Agatha to dig deeper, especially once she realizes the victim had ties to the same brewery causing all the trouble. Throw in an attempt on Agatha’s own life during a visit to the brewery, and you’ve got classic high-stakes cozy mystery fun.

 What really impressed me was how thoughtfully Green handles character growth while staying true to the spirit of M.C. Beaton’s creation. Agatha still has all her signature Mrs. Raisin quirks, but she’s also becoming a bit more self-aware and even softens around the edges in this book. Watching a character mature after 37 installments is a rare treat, and it feels completely natural. The supporting cast gets meaningful moments too, including a powerful dressing-down from Toni about classism and outdated sexism that sparks some genuine evolution in the group. Green also gently weaves in timely real-world issues—like the post-pandemic loss of beloved local pubs—without ever feeling preachy. It adds welcome depth to the story.

 M.C. Beaton would have been delighted with Green’s work. He keeps the humor sharp, the village charm intact, the characters vibrant, and the mystery engaging. Dead Before Tea Time is everything I want from an Agatha Raisin novel: funny, cozy, clever, and heartwarming, with just enough edge to keep things exciting. If you’re already a fan of the series, this one will feel like coming home to old friends. And if you somehow haven’t started yet… well, what are you waiting for?

 Highly recommended.

 You can order a copy here.

 Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Jessica Fletcher Solves Real Estate Drama in the Latest Murder, She Wrote Mystery

 

Oh, what a treat! I just finished A Killing in Real Estate, the 62nd book in the Murder, She Wrote series, and I’m once again reminded why I’ve read every single one. There’s truly nothing more comforting than settling in with Jessica Fletcher and the quirky folks of Cabot Cove for tea, one of Maeve O’Bannon’s delicious scones, good conversation, and, of course, a murder to solve.

 This one is extra special because it’s set right in Cabot Cove, which are always my favorites. The town is more divided than ever with a heated mayoral race underway and the arrival of ambitious developer Lionel Watts. He’s courting local landowners for a big luxury hotel project, and suddenly tongues are wagging, and every conversation turns into a lively debate: bring in the tourist dollars and progress, or protect the town’s old-fashioned charm? Tensions are high, and then Watts turns up dead in the woods. It looks like a simple heart attack at first, but Jessica isn’t convinced. What follows is a classic whodunit layered with local politics, community loyalties, and some decades-old secrets that keep you guessing.

 Terrie Farley Moran captures that perfect small-town nostalgia while tackling a very tricky issue about development and change. Jessica is her usual wonderful self: calm, observant, a clever peacekeeper, and sharp as ever, even while juggling work on her latest novel and dog-sitting Eve Simpson’s Cecil, an adorable Chihuahua who I’d be very happy to read about in future installments.

 The mystery progresses at a measured pace, revealing clues along the way that make the final solution feel both logical and satisfying. A compelling subplot centered on a long-forgotten financial scandal serves as an effective red herring, adding complexity and depth to the story. At times, I found the real estate angle particularly intriguing, but every thread ultimately came together in a cohesive and rewarding conclusion.

 If you’re a fan of the series, this one delivers exactly what we love: a compelling puzzle, memorable characters you feel like you know, and that irresistible Cabot Cove atmosphere. It’s charming, comforting, and left me smiling at the end. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted cozy mystery that feels like visiting old friends. Now I’m already looking forward to the next one!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

  You can order a copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Countdown to Christmas Murder Review: Festive Cozy with Small-Town Charm and Some Tangents

 

Countdown to Christmas Murder is the 32nd entry in Leslie Meier’s long-running Lucy Stone series. While the books are generally written so they can be read as standalones, if you are new to the series, you might find yourself frequently wishing that you had more backstory from earlier installments.

 With her children grown and out of the house, Lucy is navigating empty-nest life while preparing for the holidays. When a local bank manager is found dead after being targeted by vicious online attacks, Lucy suspects there’s more to the story than suicide and begins her own investigation.

 This is a classic cozy mystery complete with a charming small-town Christmas setting, an amateur sleuth, and plenty of holiday spirit. Lucy remains a generally likeable protagonist when she’s focused on the case rather than climbing onto her occasional soapbox.

That said, the book spends a lot of time on an excessive number of characters and subplots. There’s a noticeable effort to weave in diversity that sometimes feels forced rather than natural, and the story frequently wanders off on tangents that slow the momentum and pull focus from the central mystery. As in previous books, a few brief political asides appear, nothing lengthy, but enough to feel repetitive and a bit tedious.

Largely this is a more relaxed mystery, not lacking in coziness, small town charm, with plenty of Christmas joy peppered throughout. Die-hard fans of the Lucy Stone series will likely enjoy catching up with old friends during the holidays. New readers might want to start earlier in the series for better context. If you love festive, low-key amateur sleuth stories, it’s worth picking up, especially if you’re already invested in Lucy and her Tinker’s Cove Maine community.

 You can order a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

A Delightfully Trashy Escape: Murder on Sex Island Delivers Unexpected Thrills

 

I’ll admit it—I’m a creature of habit when it comes to books. Give me a cozy British country house mystery or a solid police procedural set somewhere misty and proper, and I’m happy. New York? Private islands for the ultra-rich? Not exactly my scene. So when I picked up Murder on Sex Island by Jo Firestone (without having read the first in the series), I genuinely thought I might be wasting my time.

 I’ve rarely been happier to be wrong.

 The story follows Marie Jones, who moonlights as the wonderfully eccentric detective Luella van Horn. Fresh off solving a murder on the reality show Sex Island, Marie is now broke, sweating through an August heat wave, and staring down eviction. Then comes the call: a simple surveillance job on Murder Island, an exclusive enclave for the super-rich just outside New York City. The task? Catch a suspected cheating spouse.

 What starts as a straightforward infidelity case quickly spirals into something far juicier. A murder. Layers of scandalous secrets. A den of iniquity that could shock the world. And yes—there’s even a boat chase on the East River. The plot is wild, fun, and surprisingly gripping, packed with sex, money, and murder in all the right proportions.

 What really sold me was Luella/Marie herself. She’s flawed, messy, and deeply human, but also incredibly lovable. In a cast full of mostly despicable rich characters, she shines as the sarcastic, clever outsider trying to navigate their world. The supporting characters are colorful (some hilariously awful), and I actually found myself invested in the relationships she forms along the way. For once, the detective isn’t entirely alone.

I tore through this book in two days, chores be damned. It hooked me from the very first pages and never let go. Even though it’s a far cry from my usual British fare, it works perfectly as a standalone. Jo Firestone’s voice is sharp, witty, and just the right amount of mad genius.

If you’re in the mood for something escapist, funny, and a little bit filthy, give Murder on Sex Island a shot. Highly recommended—even (or especially) if it’s not your usual genre. I’ll definitely be back for more.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

 You can order a copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Retired Spies, Sunny Menorca & Murder: A Review of The Armchair Detectives on Holiday by Matt Dunn​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

 

I mostly stick to female authors, so I’ll admit I hesitated before picking this one up, but wow, what a delightful surprise! The Armchair Detectives on Holiday by Matt Dunn is the second book in what I really hope turns into a long-running series. Even though I hadn’t read the first one yet (that’s next on my list!), I never felt lost at all. It works perfectly as a standalone.

Martin and Albie, two octogenarian retired spies, are an absolute dream duo. Albie’s always hunting down the next meal and zipping around on his motorized scooter, while Martin is like a determined old hound dog once he catches the scent of the truth. They play off each other so naturally that they often had me laughing out loud.

The story follows them to sunny Menorca for a relaxing break after their last case. That peace lasts about five minutes until they stumble upon the body of bestselling author Karen Squires at the bottom of a cliff. The local police call it an accident, but Martin notices those perfectly manicured nails and knows she was pushed. What follows is a clever investigation among the suspicious writers at Karen’s retreat, with plenty of motives, red herrings, and twists that kept me guessing right until the end. I loved how the solution ties back to one of her own books—such a fun touch!

If you enjoy cozy mysteries with sharp, witty characters and a gorgeous setting, definitely add The Armchair Detectives on Holiday to your TBR. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait for the next one.

 You can order a copy here. You won’t regret it!

 Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Miniature Murders and Canapé Chaos: A Delightful Cozy Mystery, Reviewed

 

If ever a book cried out for a character list, it’s Death by Canapé by Faith Eckersall. With no fewer than nineteen characters introduced in Chapter One alone, the author dives straight into a bustling cast of quirky villagers, journalists, and newcomers. Thankfully, this reader compiled a handy guide (you’re welcome), making it far easier to keep track of everyone from Neville Darville at the Piddlington in Miniature model village to the glamorous influencer Sophie Waterhouse and her family. You can see it at the bottom of this review.

 

This is the second book in the series, but I’m pleased to report it works perfectly well as a standalone. I hadn’t read the first book and never felt lost. That said, the world and characters are charming enough that I immediately bought book one afterward and look forward to more installments.

The story blends two intriguing threads: sinister effigies mysteriously appearing in the local model village (including one that uncannily resembles the town mayoress, a woman with plenty of enemies due to her big development plans), and a glitzy party hosted by the wealthy new arrival Sophie Waterhouse. When the mayoress is later found dead (apparently having choked on a canapé) reporter Harry Hedges smells a major story. Determined to uncover the truth (and secure some juicy headlines), Harry launches his own investigation, roping in his small team at the Piddlington Gazette.

 

Along the way, he contends with hidden secrets, non-disclosure agreements, an anxious competition winner, office politics, and his own complicated romantic life. The supporting cast shines, particularly the dedicated Sergeant Ophelia Starsky, the larger-than-life landlady Cassandra, and even the office dog Ignatius with his own “career plans.” The eccentric residents of Piddlington bring warmth and humor to the tale.

 

 I thoroughly enjoyed Death by Canapé. It held my interest from start to finish, with interesting characters, a well-paced plot, and solid writing that captures the cozy charm of village life mixed with genuine mystery. The model village setting is especially fun and original. My only minor gripe with the series so far (and many others like it) is the occasional tendency to include spoilers for previous books. When trying to attract new readers, it’s best not to give away earlier endings.

Overall, this is a promising cozy mystery series with plenty of heart, humor, and intrigue. If you enjoy village settings, amateur sleuthing journalists, and light-hearted whodunits, Death by Canapé is well worth picking up. Just keep that character list handy for the first few chapters!​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

 You can order a copy here.

Neville Darville — owner and caretaker at Piddlington in Miniature model village.
Rav — Neville’s work experience social media assistant at Piddlington in Miniature model village.
Hattie Watson — the only reporter at the Piddlington Gazette.
Harry Hedges — editor of the Piddlington Gazette. Lives in the Ball Inn.
Ray Featherwaite — sub editor of the Piddlington Gazette. Lives in the spare room at the Ball Inn.
Cassandra — Ball Inn’s Dolly Parton-esque landlady.
Mr Chagall, a.k.a. “Mr. C.” --the stately ginger office cat.
Lionel Green — proprietor of the Piddlington Gazette, mysterious and gentle art collector.
Sadie Green — Lionel’s sister; artist.
Barry Hands -- employee at the Wessex Post
Ignatius — the office dog, who, following a nasty accident, now lives with Hattie and her mother.
Geoffrey — Harry’s widowed father.
Sergeant Ophelia Starsky — diminutive and hard-working officer, Harry’s on again, off again love interest.
Great Aunt Maud — Harry’s terrifying relation.
Brenda — proprietor of Brenda’s cafe.
Jasper Grant — appalling news editor of the Daily News.
Sophie Waterhouse — lifestyle guru, influencer, new owner of  Great Piddlington Manor; mother to Panda, Miranda and Lysander. UK’s answer to Martha Stewart.
Simon Waterhouse — husband to Sophie.
Heather Bulstrode — Deputy mayor.
Colin Bulstrode — Heather’s husband, president of the Piddlington Golf Club.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

Ally McKinley Returns in a Festive Yet Deadly Highland Games Mystery

 

Dee MacDonald’s Murder at the Highland Games is the fourth installment in her delightful cozy mystery series featuring amateur sleuth Ally McKinley. Set against the vibrant backdrop of the annual Locharran Highland Games, the book captures the excitement of a Scottish village in full festive swing, complete with bagpipes, traditional dancing, and the roar of the crowd cheering on athletes in events like the caber toss.

 When champion challenger Archie Armstrong collapses dead mid-toss, Ally is quickly on the scene and realizes this is no tragic accident but cold-blooded murder. What follows is a classic cozy investigation: Ally, powered by her famous shortbread, copious cups of tea, and plenty of determination, begins piecing together suspects. The stakes rise when her chief suspect turns up dead by the loch, a threatening note clutched in their hand. As the killer remains at large, the question looms, can Ally solve the case before the sun sets on her own Highland adventure?

 MacDonald excels at the elements that make this series so enjoyable. The characters feel warm and lived-in, their relationships authentic, and the Highland village setting is vividly charming. I particularly love the snappy, humorous dialogue between characters that often delivers genuinely funny lines and lightens the mood even amid the murders. The author’s affection for the culture, traditions, and community shines through, making Locharran feel like a place you’d want to visit (despite the surprisingly high body count).

 While this entry didn’t quite pull me in with the same magnetic grip as the earlier books in the series, it’s still a thoroughly entertaining read. The plotting is solid, the atmosphere immersive, and the cozy comforts—shortbread-fueled sleuthing included—are all present and accounted for. Fans of the series will likely enjoy spending more time with Ally and the quirky villagers.

 If you’re new to the series or simply love light-hearted mysteries with a strong sense of place and humor, Murder at the Highland Games is well worth picking up. Dee MacDonald has created a world that would translate beautifully to television, and I’ll certainly be back for Ally’s next case. A fun, breezy addition to a consistently charming series.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

You can order a copy here. 

Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Importance of Being Murdered: A Delightful Theatrical Cozy Mystery

 

What makes The Importance of Being Murdered stand out is its clever structure. In most crime novels, the body drops early. Here, the author waits until halfway through before the curtain falls on the leading man. That bold choice gives her time to fully develop a delightful cast of characters, paint a vivid picture of the quaint Cotswold village, and immerse readers in the delightful chaos of amateur dramatics.

 

 I adored every moment of the preparations for the Bunbury Players’ production of Oscar Wilde’s The Importance of Being Earnest — the backstage banter, the costume fittings, the egos, the nerves, and the sheer theatrical fun. Then, just moments before showtime, retired star Bertram Manchester is found dead in his dressing room. Suddenly the spotlight swings onto murder.

 

 Detective Constable Windermere sees her big chance to solve the case and earn the promotion she’s been craving. The problem? Every single member of the cast has something to hide. With rumors flying through the village, DC Windermere has a front-row seat to the drama — but will she unmask the killer before her bumbling boss?

 

 This is a thoroughly enjoyable cozy mystery with a fantastic ensemble of distinct, well-drawn characters who leap off the page. The village setting feels warm and authentic, the amateur theatre world is brought to life with humor and affection, and the whodunnit kept me guessing right to the end. I changed my mind about the culprit multiple times and still didn’t get it right!

 

 If you love clever, feel-good cozy crimes with plenty of charm, wit, and a touch of theatrical flair, this one is highly recommended. I’m already looking forward to the next book from this author.

 You can order a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

 Thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 

The Marlow Murder Club Strikes Again – My Honest Review of Book 5, The Mysterious Affair of Judith Potts

 

I’ve been a die-hard Robert Thorogood fan since the very first episode of Death in Paradise, but the Marlow Murder Club series has quietly become my absolute favorite of his work. There’s something magical about this cozy little corner of Buckinghamshire—and yes, having actually visited Marlow makes every page feel like I’m strolling along the Thames right beside the characters. The TV adaptation only adds to the joy; thanks to Samantha Bond’s perfect portrayal, I now carry Judith’s unflappable elegance, Becks’ quiet determination, and Suzie’s no-nonsense energy in my head like old friends.

 

 The Mysterious Affair of Judith Potts (book five) is, without question, the strongest installment yet. Thorogood somehow manages to raise the stakes while deepening the heart of the series. We finally get layers of Judith’s backstory—her adventurous past as a retired archaeologist, her wealthy bohemian life in that gloriously crumbling riverside pile, her love of wild swimming, and the crossword puzzles she crafts for the local magazine. Seeing her rattled by a ghost from her past (her late husband’s illegitimate daughter accusing her of murder) adds real vulnerability to a woman we’ve always known as unshakably unruffled. It’s brilliant character work.

 

 The mystery itself is a double delight: two local celebrities meet untimely ends—one a retired footballer found in the woods, the other a second high-profile victim—and the club is on the case without their usual police lifeline. DI Tanika Malik is suspended, leaving Suzie and Becks to carry the investigation while Judith wrestles with her personal demons (and a detour to Greece). Caves, corrupt old money, blackmail, jealousy, fancy parties, and a mountain of red herrings keep the pages turning at breakneck speed. The culprit genuinely shocked me—rare praise in a genre I devour.

 

 Yes, the book occasionally feels a touch rushed; it assumes you already know how these three very different women (the dog-walking single mum, the vicar’s wife, and the crossword-writing adventurer) first banded together. I missed some of the slower, warmer bonding moments that made the earlier books so special. But honestly? The trade-off is worth it. The twists are sharper, the stakes feel higher, and by the final page the trio—and Tanika—are an even tighter, stronger force for good.

 

 If you’re already a Judith, Becks, and Suzie fan, you will not be disappointed. This is elite cozy mystery writing that somehow keeps getting better. I’m already counting down the days until book six. Time spent with the Marlow Murder Club is never wasted—it’s pure escapist joy.

 

Preorder your copy here. 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Robert Thorogood, and the Poisoned Pen Press for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

I Was Hooked Before Page One: A Cozy Delight in The Body in the Kitchen Garden by Paula Sutton

 

 What a treat to open a book and immediately feel welcomed by a thoughtful character list and—something I've never seen before—a detailed list of locations! Thank you, Paula Sutton, for that extra touch. It set the perfect tone and made diving into The Body in the Kitchen Garden feel effortless and inviting.

I'm no stranger to Paula through her gorgeous decorating books and Instagram charm, but I had no idea she'd ventured into mysteries. After finishing The Body in the Kitchen Garden, I'm officially a fan and crossing my fingers for more in this series.

That said, one small frustration: as someone who started with book 2, I was disappointed by the frequent references to the killer (and key events) from book 1. It unintentionally spoiled the first mystery for me, which is a shame because I adore Paula's warm, witty writing and would have loved to discover it fresh.

Other than that, I found this book charming. This cozy mystery wraps you in the quirky warmth of village life—gossiping neighbors, eccentric locals, and that signature vintage flair—while delivering a twisty murder plot that keeps you guessing.

Daphne Brewster is an absolute gem: meddlesome, perhaps, but overall, stylish, antique-obsessed, endlessly curious, and determined to sleuth even when the police wish she'd stay out of it. She's like a modern Miss Marple, but with impeccable outfits and sharper humor.

The story kicks off when Lord Hugh Darlington returns to his crumbling ancestral estate with his fiancée, planning a revival—only for a body to turn up in the idyllic kitchen garden. From stained-glass windows and turrets to suspicious burglaries and secretive villagers, the atmosphere is vivid and immersive. The pacing zips along with cozy comfort, sparkling humor, and a community full of personality that adds heart and tension.

The mystery is cleverly plotted, with earned twists and clues that reward careful readers. By the satisfying finale, everything snaps into place beautifully. 

Witty, stylish, and brimming with heart, The Body in the Kitchen Garden is a must for cozy crime lovers who crave vintage charm, sharp humor, and a heroine you'll root for from start to finish. I can't wait for the next installment!

You can order a copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from the publisher.

This post contains affiliate links.

Murder Most Trivial: My Favorite Murder, She Wrote Book Yet! Cozy Mystery Review

 

For many years now, Sundays have meant one thing around here: books. 

Mysteries, cookbooks, the occasional irresistible novel that kept me up far too late — you’ve joined me for all of it. And I’ve loved sharing those reviews with you in this familiar little corner of the internet.

Earlier this year, I experimented with moving my book reviews to a separate blog. It seemed like a tidy idea at the time — giving the books their own dedicated space.  But after some thought (and a great deal of reflection), I realized something important. I don’t want my books in a separate room. They belong here.

Reading has always been woven into my cooking, my entertaining, my quiet evenings, my travel dreams — and into this blog since 2010. It feels only right to bring Sunday reviews back home where they began. So starting today, our Sunday book reviews return.

 If you love mysteries, cookbooks, and the occasional literary treasure, I hope you’ll pull up a chair. There’s always room for one more at the table — and always another book to discuss. 

Now… let’s talk about this week’s read...

 

I've been a devoted fan of the Murder, She Wrote book series for years, and I haven't encountered a single Jessica Fletcher mystery that didn't captivate me. As soon as I finish one, I'm already counting down to the next. While I've genuinely enjoyed them all, the latest release—Murder Most Trivial—truly stole my heart. It's an absolute standout!

  From the opening chapter, I felt like I'd been transported right back into an episode of the beloved TV show. I could practically hear Jessica's thoughtful narration, Mort's gruff sheriff voice, and Seth's warm, witty remarks leaping off the page. Ayuh. The author's spot-on portrayal of these iconic characters makes every scene feel authentic and immersive.

  The story kicks off with a delightful twist: Jessica teams up with her Cabot Cove friends—Seth Hazlitt, Maureen, and Sheriff Mort Metzger—for a local pub trivia night. They dominate the competition and win an unexpected prize—a spot in a high-stakes, five-day trivia tournament being filmed in Los Angeles.

What starts as a fun getaway quickly turns deadly when a crew member is murdered on the very first day. Suddenly, the game show has life-or-death stakes, and Jessica must uncover who stands to gain from sabotaging the production.

One of the book's biggest joys is its game show setting, which offers a fascinating peek behind the scenes of live TV production. Add in clever pop culture references to classic detective series, and you've got the perfect blend of nostalgia and whodunit intrigue that longtime fans will adore.

The metafictional elements are pure genius: the investigation leads Jessica and her crew to filming locations from their favorite mystery shows, where they playfully debate how Columbo, Monk, or Jim Rockford would crack the case. It's a loving homage that had me smiling throughout.

What makes these novels so special is how faithfully they capture the spirit of the original series. The characters feel exactly like their on-screen counterparts—I can hear the actors' voices in my head and vividly picture Jessica pedaling her bicycle through Cabot Cove, Mort in the sheriff's office, or Seth in his clinic. The vivid, visual storytelling makes immersion effortless.

If you're a Murder, She Wrote fan, Murder Most Trivial is a must-read. It delivers cozy mystery, clever twists, and that signature Jessica Fletcher charm. I loved every page and can't wait for the next adventure!

 You can pre-order a copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 This post contains affiliate links.

Snowy with a Chance of Murder: A Chilling, Captivating Return to Cabot Cove

 

As a lifelong fan of the “Murder, She Wrote” series — I raised my kids watching this series — I can say with confidence that Snowy with a Chance of Murder, the 60th installment (And another is on the way! Woot! Woot!) is one of the best yet.

 

 The story kicks off with Jessica taking a nasty spill on the ice, confining her to a wheelchair. Unable to join a Mystery Lovers cruise, she’s forced to stay home, where she’s drawn into an intriguing mystery right across the street. A new neighbor, Mr. Rymer, moves in and immediately stirs up Cabot Cove with his risqué snow sculptures—naked figures that spark debates over art versus public decency. When the sculptures are vandalized at night, Rymer shrugs it off, rebuilding them with fresh snow as a blizzard looms. But the morning after the storm, Jessica peers out her window to find a chilling sight: Rymer’s body half-buried in the snow, next to a new sculpture. From her chair, Jessica must unravel whether a cold-blooded killer is lurking in her beloved town.

 

 Cabot Cove is my favorite setting for Jessica’s adventures. The familiar cast—Seth, Loretta, and more— the atmosphere, all shine brightly, with delightful moments like a spa day at Loretta’s Beauty Parlor that had me smiling ear to ear. The nod to Hitchcock’s “Rear Window” is brilliant! It captured Jessica’s sharp sleuthing from her confined vantage point without ever feeling derivative. There is a terrific balance of cozy charm and suspense, pulling in all of Jessica’s friends for a story that feels both intimate and expansive.

 

 What sets this book apart is how Barbara Early nails the “Murder, She Wrote” formula, something recent writers struggled to do after the passing of Donald Bain. Early’s Jessica is pitch-perfect—witty, warm, and relentlessly curious—while the quirky snow sculpture mystery feels fresh yet quintessentially Cabot Cove. The addition of a likable young helper hired by Seth adds a new layer of heart to the story, making Jessica’s world feel vibrant and lived-in.

 

  I’ve been hooked on this series since Bain’s era, and Snowy with a Chance of Murder recaptures that magic with gusto. It’s a fun, atmospheric read that kept me guessing until the end, and it’s easily the best since Bain’s time. I’m thrilled Barbara Early has taken the reins and hope she pens many more. For longtime fans and newcomers alike, this is a must-read. Five stars without hesitation!

 You can grab your copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

Death at the Village Christmas Fair by Debbie Young, a Review

 

Yet another book that fulfills my mystery trifecta – Christmas, a cozy mystery, and an English location (Cotswolds) — I quite enjoyed Death at the Village Christmas Fair by Debbie Young. It is the third in the series of Cotswold Curiosity Shop Mysteries. Reading it in July didn’t dim its festive magic; the Santa Run and bustling Christmas Fair in Little Pride wrapped me in that warm holiday glow I love. The Cotswolds setting felt like a dream, making me yearn to revisit those charming villages. Coming from a family of knitters, crocheters, seamstresses, and button collectors, the story’s focus on a button-adorned scarf hit so close to home. I could almost feel myself rummaging through my grandmother’s button tin, each one sparking memories, just like Alice’s mum’s nostalgic biscuit tin of buttons did for me.

 I found Alice Carroll, the Curiosity Shop owner and amateur sleuth, so relatable, though I’ll admit her naivety annoyed me a bit at times. Still, her heart and determination won me over, and I loved how her romance with Robert Praed felt real rather than cloying. The mystery, involving a murdered Santa and a stolen scarf with a valuable netsuke button, was straightforward but fun, perfect for when I’m craving cozy vibes over a tricky plot. Learning about netsuke was a delightful surprise, like finding a hidden gem in my family’s crafting stash.

 This book’s charm lies in its blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit. Alice’s mum, with her quick knitting and witty remarks, felt like she could join my family’s crafting circle. Little Pride itself is so vivid it’s practically a character, making me long for that village life, murders aside. While the mystery isn’t the twistiest, it is the kind of story that feels like a warm blanket. As a Debbie Young fan, I’m torn between her Sophie Sayers series and this one, but Death at the Village Christmas Fair is a new favorite. For now, I wholeheartedly suggest this to anyone craving a festive, cozy escape, especially if you love Christmas and a good button jar memory.

You can order your copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.