Death at Thorburn Hall - Julianna Deering

What was meant to be a pleasant holiday in the Scotland, enjoying the British Open of 1935, suddenly turns into something quite murderous.

Drew Fathering accepts the invitation to stay at his cousins house - Lord and Lady Rainsby and takes with him his wife Madeline and friend Nick Dennison, and their friend Carrie Holland joins them. Also arriving are dear friends of Lady Louisa - Mr. and Mrs. Pike, and in tow with them is one Count Kuznetsov.

When Lord Gerald takes Drew into his confidence one evening, the last thing the reluctant investigator expects is for his host to be killed in a riding accident soon after. It's only considered suspicious when the Rainsby's daughter, Joan, returns home and insists that her father was an excellent rider and would have checked the saddle before embarking on a ride.

With the help of his beloved wife, the duo embark on an investigation without support of the local police force. But Drew, ever affable, finds friends amongst the force who are willing to assist him and discuss the case.

As they delve deeper in to what may have happened, so the horrid truth that someone amongst them may be sharing secrets with Hitler's Germany. Is this case one of collaboration with the enemy or something more 'mundane' and that of money, status and possibly forbidden love?

Deering's novel and her main character, Drew (as well as era), are reminiscent of Campion or Marple. The amateur sleuth who understands the human psyche and therefore can solve the case a lot quicker than the police. The author's characters are well developed, interesting and likeable. The subplot of whether Nick and Carrie will cement their relationship with marriage, is a good distraction. Filled with red herrings, this mystery is a puzzler and whilst the perpetrator may become obvious towards the end, the why is the main selling point for this story. A highly recommended read for all fans of mysteries, British based stories and good writing.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review from Bethany House as part of their blogging program. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. 

King Harald's Snow Job

The boss is planning a weekend away to catch up with friends, go to a concert, have good food and maybe even a new woman to date at the end of it. And, I get to go, so thinks the affable, King Harold. 'The Boss' is Andy (Anders) Skyberg, almost reluctant Mayor of a New Bergen, is packing to leave as soon as he makes a stop to help his Aunt Bev with a Holiday Faire. What could go wrong?

Plenty. Firstly, the weekend has been coupled with 'The Girls Weekend Out' - a two night stay with lots of different activities planned. Secondly, Rosemary, the woman in charge of the faire, is recuperating after falling off her bike. This means, Aunt Bev is now responsible for managing the whole event. And with Tim, the smarmy hotel manager, keen to see her fail, Anders insists on making sure it all goes well for his beloved aunt. 

With popular novelist, Logan Kennedy arriving to add to the festivities, it should make for a fun weekend for all. And then a blizzard blows in to town and it's now open season for mayhem. All manner of secrets are discovered on the snowy weekend - suggested affairs, odd tattoos and missing jewelry. And with King Harald sniffing out (and hiding) a key piece of evidence, what should have been a straightforward helping hand, turns into a complicated mystery for man and his best friend. 

I love King Harald. He's amiable, inquisitive and a genius in his own right. What I particularly like about this great series is that Audry doesn't humanize King Harald. What he thinks is what I would imagine a dog saying to himself. And that's why this works. Anders may well solve the mystery, but he has a lot of help from his faithful friend. A great story and highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries. 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

The Oracle of Baal (A Mick Chandra Mystery) - Rebecca Yount

When a prominent stage actress is found dead having apparently committed suicide and having just won a prestigious award, there's only one team that can solve the puzzle.

Detective Inspector Mick Chandra and his partner Elizabeth Chang are the ones to call upon to solve the unsolvable cases. But this time around the case is throwing out a lot of bodies, questions and no answers. How can the suicide of an actress be connected to that of a headmaster in York?

When two more suicides are noted, Chandra spots a similarity. One which is quite odd and out of character - a hat neatly left on a hassock. The people who have died have all been seemingly happy (that is until their untimely death) but another strange fact comes to light. They all talked of enlightenment, the after-life. Could it be they were all part of cult?

After meeting one Dr. Solomon Deal, a revered scholar on the topic of cults, Mick learns so much more and realizes that he has to tread carefully. Upon learning of a young woman that escaped the so called Oracle of Baal, Mick travels to York to visit the emotionally traumatized young girl and discovers a cult that is truly disturbing.

How high up does this cult extend? What are they doing with the significant amounts of money that they have received? With the enigmatic leader Madame Love proclaiming the organization as a self-help group, the inspector will have to call upon the help of his friend Jamie. By infiltrating the suspected cult, can Mick bring the brainwashing to an end and justice for the families left behind?

This is the best Mick Chandra mystery so far. With a captivating subject matter and written so well, it's an absorbing, can't put it down read. Further details are discovered on the main characters adding new dimensions to already rounded figures. Yount's eloquence with handling a fairly sensitive topic is intelligent without glamorizing other well known cults. She manages to give facts and theories without digressing from the plot - a plot that is unpredictable, tense and exciting.  A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Death By the Book - Julianna Deering

Drew Farthering seems to be involved in another case of intrigue and murder. A trip to his solicitors office find's the affable young man face to face with the body of the legal aide.

Detective Birdsong none too pleased to have the amateur detective on board, also appreciates that Drew may actually be useful. Ensuring that he is informed of all ideas and thoughts the young man may have, the investigation begins.

Useful (to have on board) especially as the murder made a statement by stabbing the victim with a hatpin to which a cryptic note was attached. Both men start to decipher the message when another body turns up - this time publicly on a golf course.

As far as anyone is concerned there is no connection between the men, or is there?

Meanwhile back at Fathering Place, Drew's hopefully to be fiance Madeline, is entertaining Miss. Jansen; Madeline's aunt from America. She's not keen on the 'silver-tongued' gentleman and is looking out for her nieces' honor. Is this Drew a suitable match? Having a few murders on his doorstep (one quite literally) isn't shedding a good light on him.

Even though the police make an arrest, Drew is not convinced that they have the right person. He needs to make certain of one thing - who ordered a book on crimes and didn't pick it up?

Set in the 1930s, this murder mystery has all the feel of the an Agatha Christie classic. It's characters are well thought out - from the dashing lead to the formidable aunt. There are no heroics, just a captivating thriller that slowly but beautifully unravels to its surprising ending.

Deering's whodunit is consuming and riveting. The touches of humour, candour and insight into the human psyche are subtle, thought-provoking and brilliant. The author has created characters and storylines that are sure to become classics. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House publishers in exchange for a review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

The Ravenhoe Cauldron (Mick Chandra Mysteries) - Rebecca Yount

Ancient Celtic antiquities isn't Detective Inspector Mick Chandra's area of expertise. As the Force's go-to man to solve the unsolvable cases, he's thinking twice when a naked body is found dead at the bottom of an excavation hole. What is its link to a golden cauldron recently stolen from Colchester Museum?

With trusted colleague, Elizabeth Chung in tow, Chandra calls in the help of Detective Todd Bertram - an expert in the field of stolen and forgery antiquities. Together they begin to unravel the mystery of the cauldron. Their investigation leads to Celtic rituals, murders and international intrigue as well as a sinister plot that puts Chandra's life, and those around him, in danger.

What is the legend behind the golden artifact? Is the dead man found really dead? And what secrets lie within the close knit circle of people who pay homage to Celtic relics?

The third mystery begins with a happy domestic scene and then very quickly fades into another engaging and thrilling journey for the likable Detective Inspector. The handsome, intelligent police officer quickly makes connections but when the answers to his questions/investigation leads to Interpol, things slow down and then become dangerous. He's getting close to infiltrating and breaking down the circle of enthusiasts who are not above killing for their passion.

Another great outing in this series. Yount's portrayal of the British officer is believable and engaging. The author pays attention to the details such as the food eaten and clothes worn so there's little effort needed to imagine the scene just as she wants the reader to see it. The mystery/plot has lots of twists and turns along the way and the international aspect of the case adds a great edge. I particularly liked that I found out more about Elizabeth who I was never wholly taken with, but certainly grew on me this time around. Overall, it's an eloquent, well thought out story. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Send off for a Snitch - K M Rockwood

Another shift ends at the steel factory and Jesse, ex-con trying to do good, makes his way back to the tiny basement apartment he luckily calls home. Rain pelts down making the distinctive red and black checked coat he wears, wet. As he approaches the stairwell there's a young boy sitting there wearing a bright orange fluffy vest with purple stars.

Turns out that young boy is Aaron's younger brother. Aaron the jumpy, high on meth co worker who Jesse is convinced is a police informant. From the moment he asks why the child is there on the steps to his home, Jesse knows he's going to get caught up in something ominous.

With the nonstop rain turning the streets into mini rivers and worse flooding his meager apartment, Jesse seeks refuge with his sometimes girlfriend Kelly. But that doesn't go quite according to plan. But before he can make his way there, he finds himself becoming a local hero when he rescues a mom and her baby trapped in a car with a torrent of water surrounding them.

Being a hero doesn't stop him from worrying about the fact that Aaron turns up dead near his home. How long will it be before the dynamic duo of Detectives Montgomery and Belkins come knocking at his door? And when they do, will Jesse become implicated in the death of Aaron? With quiet determination, the ex-con tries to discover how the meth addict died as well as juggle the rocky relationship with Kelly.

Another exciting episode in the life of Jesse. Still trying to keep out of trouble but somehow it finds him. His relationship with Kelly is still fraught with misunderstanding and alcohol fueling disgruntlement. As Jesse tries to clear his name from another entanglement that would see him back in prison it seems that Detective Montgomery is yet again his savior.

The third installment of this series moves the story along of this lovable rogue. The author still manages to capture the harsh realities of being on parole and coupled with moments of (black) humor makes it an engaging read. It's a pleasure to meet all the old characters and a few new ones, adding more depth to a well thought out plot. Is is possible that the police can embroil him in Aaron's death? And will the incessant rain that causes a heap of problems finally stop Kelly from drinking?

I've read all the books in the series and I felt that there was a repetition of what happened in the previous stories which diminished the impact of this current episode and therefore became a little dull in some parts. Having said that, I do understand that there are those who haven't read any of Rockwood's crime novels and the author does need to explain certain things so perhaps it's a moot point. Regardless, if you're a fan of well written crime novels, the Jesse Damon series is a must read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique.

Steeled For Murder (A Jesse Damon Crime Novel) - K M Rockwood

Released on parole from a twenty year stay in prison, Jesse Damon is determined not to go back - ever. With an electronic tag encased around his ankle, his movements are monitored closely so his daily routine is work, the library, seeing his parole officer and then back to his tiny basement apartment. What a life considering he wasn't actually guilty.

With a probationary position at a steel fabrication plant, Jesse wants to show he's useful and knows to keep his head down. Which is working out just fine until the midnight shift forklift driver, Mitch, decides to pick on the quiet felon. Keeping his mouth shut, he listens as Mitch accuses him of staring at his wife, that he's some sort of sex pervert. Thankfully Hank, the shift supervisor steps in and whisks Jesse off to his new task. . At 'lunch' he meets Kelly a woman he'd like to get to know but isn't sure what she thinks of his record. Regretting not standing up for himself a little more, Jesse works his shift until production stops - Mitch has been found dead.

Suspicion naturally falls on Jesse. And then the police turn up. Blinded by an injustice that happened against his daughter detective Belkins hones in on Jesse as the only suspect in Mitch's murder - despite the young man having a strong alibi. As he is forced to consider spending the rest of his life in prison, the young ex-prisoner resolves to find out who actually killed Mitch. However, he's in dangerous territory - one mistake and he'll violate his probation and will be back inside. Yet, the need to prove his innocence is much stronger and his subtle investigations lead to another world - abuse, money, fake identities and drugs. Will Jesse be able to clear his name?

With the main character almost as an antihero, Rockwood's gritty crime novel gets it hooks in right from the start. Told in first person, the story moves along at a steady pace giving just enough details. Jesse is a victim of circumstance yet being found guilty makes him a target and guilty of any misdemeanor. The author has managed to give explicit/vivid descriptions of the environment and surroundings without losing that first person narrative. Belkins is a nasty piece of work and although you know why he acts in a belligerent manner, there is still little sympathy. An absorbing crime story that shows you how life is for an ex-con.

A superb piece of writing, I could have read it in a day but forced myself to sit back and enjoy the easy style and characters this author has created. I felt quite sorry for Jesse, he fights to make his life better but when the law sees you permanently as doing wrong how can you improve? Thoroughly enjoyed every moment of this excellent story. Overall, a well written, moving and emotive tale. A must for all crime fans - a highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. 

The Erlking (Mick Chandra Mysteries) - Rebecca Yount

With a dead eight years old girl dragged from a North London canal, Mick Chandra looks at the scantily clad young victim and makes a promise to her mother - that he will catch 'them', 'for Josie's sake'.

Seconded to the Pedophile Unit under the direction of Detective Chief Inspector Kip Brodie, Mick and his sergeant, Elizabeth Chang, join a seasoned team that have dealt with the most awful crime - child abuse and child pornography. Their current task is to find four missing children, break apart the pedophile ring that is praying on young victims and especially the head of the group who calls himself The Erlking. With one victim dead, time is running out.

With calculated patience, pedophiles have a range of people on hand to help obtain their victims. With this piece of information, Mick starts to probe more deeply into the seemingly unconnected murder of an Member of Parliament's wife. The MP was accused of molesting a young girl yet no charges were made. But with dogged determination, the pedophile unit along with Mick's tenacity and skill at breaking cases, the team delve further into the seedy world of pedophilia.

When threats are made to his beautiful musician girlfriend Jessica, to his home and his dog, Mick knows he's being warned to stay away from the case. But as loyal as those around the accused are, so are Mick's friends and colleagues. Will they be able to save the last three victims? Can the seasoned group of police officers bring to justice those who delight in the young and make them pay for their sordid crimes?

With a chilling opening, Yount's mystery packs a punch and keeps delivering. In the second installment of the Mick Chandra mysteries, the charming and handsome detective is seen in a more homely light. His relationship with Jessica Beaumont, started in Yount's first novel (A Death in C Minor), has blossomed into a nurturing, strong and supportive partnership. With such a trying case embarked upon, Mick needs this love but when it comes under fire (quite literally) he leaps into full time protective mode. With more questions being raised than answered, Mick seeks the guidance of and listens to Kip. The senior detective reminds Mick that slow and steady is sometimes the best way to get results when it comes to a case like this. With surprising twists and turns, the dramatic and tense ending creates a enthralling story.

Yount's characterization is detailed yet still allows the reader to imagine the scenes. The author has handled a difficult and often disturbing subject matter with sensitivity without losing any of the dramatic impact to the story. The authors language is eloquent and her use of colloquial expressions add a touch of realism to this British based thriller.

Another brilliant, well thought out and intelligent mystery. The handsome Anglo-Indian detective is just as charming and even more likable as his is stunning partner, Jessica. Old friends are met again and despite it being the second book in the series, this is still a stand alone mystery. My one grumble, and a very small one at that, is that it's obvious an American is writing about an English character as there were unnecessary explanations of phrases and other things - but being British I would notice them, so whilst they mildly distracted me, I doubt others would be bothered by them.

Overall, this story is a real page tuner and I thoroughly enjoyed the book. With the inclusion of the first chapter from the next installment of the series, I am very much looking forward to meeting up with the charismatic Mick Chandra once again. A highly recommended read.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author to review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not required to give a positive critique. 

Payback Time - Brittany Weddle

Chicago Detective Mary Lorrence became a cop because of the sudden and brutal death of her little sister. Nearly eleven years later the killer hasn't been caught and a new murder brings back to the surface the memories of Clair's demise.

Together with her partner Luke Talon, they investigate the crime which takes on a new twist to become a murder and a missing person's case. Besides all of this, Mary also has to deal with Kurt, the father of her ten year old daughter, who suddenly wants to be a part of their lives. And then there's her growing affection for her best friend Ryan. Will she and Ryan eventually go on a date? What does Kurt want and will she ever find Chloe Jackson's killer and Emily Nichols the missing girl of a well known lawyer?

Weddle's murder mystery is an enjoyable walk through how two almost clashing personalities work their way through solving a frustrating case. With red herrings cropping up here and there, Mary and Luke have their work cut out for them. Their stubbornness and outspoken ways leads to the FBI taking over the case and Mary being temporarily suspended.

Awash with emotion as well as some humor, Weddle's mystery is certainly entertaining. There is a little inconsistency with reactions and information that I don't think mar's the overall story line too much but I did feel that the ending was almost anti-climatic. As a first time author, the characters are well defined and descriptions are clear and concise. It certainly kept me interested and when I thought that Weddle needed to explain things a bit more here and there, it was disclosed (at the end of the book) that Payback Time is a 'volume one'. With this in mind, I'm looking forward to reading the next installment of Detective Lorrence. A recommended read for anyone who's after a mystery that isn't too complicated.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author for review. The opinions expressed are my own and I am not expected to give a positive critique.