Five separate novellas tumble into each other as the novel's central character moves from teenage to old age in a novel which jumps through time and reality. Interspersed are characters from a parallel world to our own, whose lives crisscross with those of our characters, occasionally taking over their bodies to avoid death. These fantastical characters are fighting their own good versus evil war, into which our rather unlucky heroine is dragged in. Each plot line has a different narrator and is told from their point of view.
There is quite a dark undertone to this book which touches upon serious themes and imagines a dystopian future where technology and therefore law and order has broken down.
Nina Jon is the author of Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection, a crime and mystery series about a private detective, and the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries.
There is quite a dark undertone to this book which touches upon serious themes and imagines a dystopian future where technology and therefore law and order has broken down.
Nina Jon is the author of Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection, a crime and mystery series about a private detective, and the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries.
It was interesting to read this having just finished The Hound of the Baskervilles.
The book is written in very similar manner to the style employed by Conan Doyle, and evokes the period well, but without coming across as laboured. The shadows of Sherlock Holmes and Watson cross every page, but they don't appear. Plenty of other characters from the originals do, with more depth of character than allowed by Conan Doyle. The story is fairly long (317 pages) but it moves quickly with quite a bit of action (as in the originals). Inexplicable clues and twists abound. The plot kept my attention throughout.
I will say just one word about the end – unexpected.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
The book is written in very similar manner to the style employed by Conan Doyle, and evokes the period well, but without coming across as laboured. The shadows of Sherlock Holmes and Watson cross every page, but they don't appear. Plenty of other characters from the originals do, with more depth of character than allowed by Conan Doyle. The story is fairly long (317 pages) but it moves quickly with quite a bit of action (as in the originals). Inexplicable clues and twists abound. The plot kept my attention throughout.
I will say just one word about the end – unexpected.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This is the first of a very popular series of short cosies, featuring a single mum and retired New York cop crime duo who pair up to fight crime in her hometown, which is a bit of a Midsummer Murders type of place.
In this story, she's convinced her friends' death isn't the suicide the police claim. Neither is he. Together they dig deeper and unearth murder.
Although I did identify the murderer, it wasn't until the very end and it didn't detract from the story. Neither did its length, which was about perfect for its plot.
Just the thing for crime fans needing a quick fix.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
In this story, she's convinced her friends' death isn't the suicide the police claim. Neither is he. Together they dig deeper and unearth murder.
Although I did identify the murderer, it wasn't until the very end and it didn't detract from the story. Neither did its length, which was about perfect for its plot.
Just the thing for crime fans needing a quick fix.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A young woman runs from a man following her – does she escape? A woman's boyfriend disappears off the face of the earth – is he alive? A middle-aged couple are found dead in their bed – have they been murdered? A wife telephones the police, her husband has abducted their children – or has he? She herself disappears, leaving behind her passport and purse, but no photographs. Where is she?
These are some of the plot lines in Sleep Tight. Be warned, it's the author's style to leave some unanswered to be carried forward to later novels. Enough plots are resolved to make this a highly satisfying psychological thriller by an author who is becoming very popular and with good reason.
If you enjoyed Before I Go To Sleep by SJ Watson, you should enjoy this.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
These are some of the plot lines in Sleep Tight. Be warned, it's the author's style to leave some unanswered to be carried forward to later novels. Enough plots are resolved to make this a highly satisfying psychological thriller by an author who is becoming very popular and with good reason.
If you enjoyed Before I Go To Sleep by SJ Watson, you should enjoy this.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
McCall Smith is back on form with this one. With two cracking little mysteries for Mme Ramotswe to solve, and well-deserved happiness at long last for Ms 97%, lovers of this series, like myself, have another pleasurable evocative read in store.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Written in a style typical of its time. Despite its length, this is a very fast-paced adventure, full of derring do's with a heroic protagonist and a happy, although somewhat convoluted ending. Classic good versus evil, in a wartime setting, with a leading man who is always a gentleman, yet can fire a gun when he has to.
This would make an excellent film. I'd love to see this story set in another time, with different enemies, but the same goodies.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This would make an excellent film. I'd love to see this story set in another time, with different enemies, but the same goodies.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I bought this at a book signing. Sophie Hannah, a great Christie fan (as am I) made it clear that she didn't set out to replicate Christie, as no one could do that, but wrote the book as a tribute to her. I think she achieves her aim quite well. Matthew Prichard gave his consent because he wanted people to start reading his grandmother again, and they are.
Poirot is as fussy, abrasive, wily, and ultimately as kindhearted as he is in the originals, although there, the similarities end. The sidekick – Catchpole – is a Scotland Yard detective. He's more Hastings bumbling, than Japp, but decent and well-meaning. He's there only to narrate, Poirot runs the investigation, the police don't really feature.
At 373 pages, it's long but engrossing. With so many oddities to explain, the denounment is possibly a bit too long and rather complicated, but clever for it, and unexpected. There are enough footprints throughout to make it solvable, but mostly with hindsight. This is a cosy murder mystery which requires your full attention.
Don't expect to read Christie, because you won't, nor were you intended to. The Monochrome Murders, is a good Christie-esque read, which, in my opinion at least, is better than some of its reviews suggest.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Poirot is as fussy, abrasive, wily, and ultimately as kindhearted as he is in the originals, although there, the similarities end. The sidekick – Catchpole – is a Scotland Yard detective. He's more Hastings bumbling, than Japp, but decent and well-meaning. He's there only to narrate, Poirot runs the investigation, the police don't really feature.
At 373 pages, it's long but engrossing. With so many oddities to explain, the denounment is possibly a bit too long and rather complicated, but clever for it, and unexpected. There are enough footprints throughout to make it solvable, but mostly with hindsight. This is a cosy murder mystery which requires your full attention.
Don't expect to read Christie, because you won't, nor were you intended to. The Monochrome Murders, is a good Christie-esque read, which, in my opinion at least, is better than some of its reviews suggest.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
The 11th adventure starring burglar/ solver of murders Bernie Rhodenhall.
This is the first of the series I've read. I bought it expecting a sort of golden age murder mystery and was surprised when it turned out to be set in the modern age. Our protagonist, Bernie Rhodenhall, owns a bookshop getting squashed by Amazon et al. To supplement his living, he works as a gentleman burglar for hire. Unfortunately he keeps stumbling across dead bodies in the course of the night job. Strangely this doesn't seem to put him off his better paying profession because this is the 11th in the series. To prove his innocence he sets out to solve the case, assisted by what another reviewer refers to as the regular cast. I can't remember how he explains his presence at the scene to the police when he unmasks the villain, but he does.
Bernie R is a bit clumsy, shy and engaging because of it. He's more Watson than Sherlock. As a reader I wanted it to turn out well for him, and it sort of did.
As 254 pages it's the perfect holiday read.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This is the first of the series I've read. I bought it expecting a sort of golden age murder mystery and was surprised when it turned out to be set in the modern age. Our protagonist, Bernie Rhodenhall, owns a bookshop getting squashed by Amazon et al. To supplement his living, he works as a gentleman burglar for hire. Unfortunately he keeps stumbling across dead bodies in the course of the night job. Strangely this doesn't seem to put him off his better paying profession because this is the 11th in the series. To prove his innocence he sets out to solve the case, assisted by what another reviewer refers to as the regular cast. I can't remember how he explains his presence at the scene to the police when he unmasks the villain, but he does.
Bernie R is a bit clumsy, shy and engaging because of it. He's more Watson than Sherlock. As a reader I wanted it to turn out well for him, and it sort of did.
As 254 pages it's the perfect holiday read.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders - a series of short murder mysteries – and the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I bought this book as an Amazon recommendation. I didn’t read any of the reviews until after I’d finished it, nor realise it was such a big seller.
I'm not surprised. It hooked me right away and kept me hooked. Despite its length, it’s a very easy read.
Marcus Goldman is living a little too well of the expense of his first, bestselling, novel, when he should really be writing another one. Thankfully for young Marcus, the body of a missing girl is dug up from the garden of his best friend. Working alongside the police, although independently, Marcus sets out to prove his best friend innocent. Whether he actually is, Mr Dicker doesn’t reveal until the very end.
The novelist keeps the suspense going throughout, with cliffhangers at the end of nearly every chapter. Goose Cove may be a small place, but every door handle turned, opens a closet with a skeleton inside, and some have been there for a long time.
There are lots of suspects, and I had no idea which of them dunnit until told. The twists, which come thick and fast, are for most part credible. Many shock, and some are surprisingly poignant, as is the novel.
For anybody after an engrossing crime thriller to lose themselves in, as much character as plot driven, I can certainly recommend this.
As a fellow reviewer put it: Is at great literature? No. Is it a great story? Yes.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the show more author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
I'm not surprised. It hooked me right away and kept me hooked. Despite its length, it’s a very easy read.
Marcus Goldman is living a little too well of the expense of his first, bestselling, novel, when he should really be writing another one. Thankfully for young Marcus, the body of a missing girl is dug up from the garden of his best friend. Working alongside the police, although independently, Marcus sets out to prove his best friend innocent. Whether he actually is, Mr Dicker doesn’t reveal until the very end.
The novelist keeps the suspense going throughout, with cliffhangers at the end of nearly every chapter. Goose Cove may be a small place, but every door handle turned, opens a closet with a skeleton inside, and some have been there for a long time.
There are lots of suspects, and I had no idea which of them dunnit until told. The twists, which come thick and fast, are for most part credible. Many shock, and some are surprisingly poignant, as is the novel.
For anybody after an engrossing crime thriller to lose themselves in, as much character as plot driven, I can certainly recommend this.
As a fellow reviewer put it: Is at great literature? No. Is it a great story? Yes.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the show more author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
Like many others, I read this from cover to cover in a single go. It only took a couple of hours. The plot as such, involves a librarian talking non-stop at a trapped reader. Unable to escape he (or she – for we don’t learn which) can only listen.
In a stream of consciousness monologue, we are treated to the story of this woman’s life, loves, and losses. Life hasn’t been particularly kind to this woman. It’s rather overlooked her. She's slightly brittle and wary of further disappointment. But she does love books, and not only books.
Our narrator has lots of opinions, which she freely shares. For example she doesn’t travel, ‘because Napoleon has always been there first.’
Don’t expect much of a plot, it's a vignette. One woman’s view on the world she inhabits, where hope burns eternal.
Despite it’s brevity, and lack of plot, our librarian narrator is quite a fully fleshed character, and I was left hoping everything would all turn out right for her in the end.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
In a stream of consciousness monologue, we are treated to the story of this woman’s life, loves, and losses. Life hasn’t been particularly kind to this woman. It’s rather overlooked her. She's slightly brittle and wary of further disappointment. But she does love books, and not only books.
Our narrator has lots of opinions, which she freely shares. For example she doesn’t travel, ‘because Napoleon has always been there first.’
Don’t expect much of a plot, it's a vignette. One woman’s view on the world she inhabits, where hope burns eternal.
Despite it’s brevity, and lack of plot, our librarian narrator is quite a fully fleshed character, and I was left hoping everything would all turn out right for her in the end.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I purchased this book after watching the performance of Peter James's stage play – Marriage Is Murder. Though this review isn't about the play, I'll touch on it briefly because it's relevant to Dead Simple, the first of the Roy Grace detective novels. In Marriage Is Murder, Roy Grace is a fledgeling detective investigating his first murder. In Dead Simple he’s a seasoned copper, yet similar themes run throughout, particularly whether such a thing as a perfect murder exists. To paraphrase Mr James himself – of the many who disappear without trace every year, how many have been murdered without anyone knowing, the body disposed of, the perpetrator (s) never caught?
In Dead Simple, Roy Grace investigates the disappearance of Michael Harrison. We, the reader, know what has happened to poor Michael. The question that keeps us turning the pages is what is going to happen next?
Life hasn't been kind to Roy Grace. His beloved Sandy has disappeared. The psychics can't find her. Does this mean she's still alive? Roy Grace is gritty, he carries on searching – for missing Sandy, and for missing Michael Harrison. The events which unfold do so through the eyes of the story’s participants. It's a bit like unwrapping pass the parcel – the reader doesn't know what they're going to find in the next layer. In this way, the identity of the puppetmaster is slowly revealed.
Many reviewers found the ending slightly hurried. On balance, they may be right, but it doesn't detract from show more this novel as a page turning psychological thriller.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
In Dead Simple, Roy Grace investigates the disappearance of Michael Harrison. We, the reader, know what has happened to poor Michael. The question that keeps us turning the pages is what is going to happen next?
Life hasn't been kind to Roy Grace. His beloved Sandy has disappeared. The psychics can't find her. Does this mean she's still alive? Roy Grace is gritty, he carries on searching – for missing Sandy, and for missing Michael Harrison. The events which unfold do so through the eyes of the story’s participants. It's a bit like unwrapping pass the parcel – the reader doesn't know what they're going to find in the next layer. In this way, the identity of the puppetmaster is slowly revealed.
Many reviewers found the ending slightly hurried. On balance, they may be right, but it doesn't detract from show more this novel as a page turning psychological thriller.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
I came across mention of this novel in one of those Best Ever Crime and Mystery lists. I enjoy unearthing new authors and gave it a try.
This is definitely not a cosy mystery. Nor is it a conventional murder mystery solved by a clever detective. The anti-hero, Buddy Sandifer, is an arrogant hypocrite whose casual racism and sexism is jaw-dropping by modern standards. However Buddy lives in the 1930’s. Buddy is having an affair. Divorce in 1930’s America ain't so easy, and Buddy therefore decides to murder his long-suffering wife. On the face of it, this novel is about the events which follow.
However, as its title suggests, Sneaky People is actually a tale of calculations and miscalculations, jumping to a conclusion and getting it wrong. Pretty much no one in our tale is the person anybody else thinks they are; and it gets harder and harder to know who is pulling the wool over whose eyes.
It's crude and coarse in places, but it's also comic and compelling. I enjoyed it more than I expected to.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This is definitely not a cosy mystery. Nor is it a conventional murder mystery solved by a clever detective. The anti-hero, Buddy Sandifer, is an arrogant hypocrite whose casual racism and sexism is jaw-dropping by modern standards. However Buddy lives in the 1930’s. Buddy is having an affair. Divorce in 1930’s America ain't so easy, and Buddy therefore decides to murder his long-suffering wife. On the face of it, this novel is about the events which follow.
However, as its title suggests, Sneaky People is actually a tale of calculations and miscalculations, jumping to a conclusion and getting it wrong. Pretty much no one in our tale is the person anybody else thinks they are; and it gets harder and harder to know who is pulling the wool over whose eyes.
It's crude and coarse in places, but it's also comic and compelling. I enjoyed it more than I expected to.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Reginald Ernest Morley is an old git. He's such an old git that the entire sleepy hamlet of Castle Farthing hates him – but just who hates him enough to do him in? It's the job of Detective Inspector Harry Falconer and sidekick Carmichael to find out.
This has everything one should expect from a cosy murder mystery. Eccentric characters, hidden secrets, sexual rivalries, family feuds, hidden grudges – not to mention church steeples and mullioned windows.
A prologue introduces the characters nicely with the murder happening straightaway. This is a long book with many characters and storylines, and it could have become confusing, but the author has a nice way of reminding you who each character is and where they fit into the story. The description of Faulkner leaves plenty of potential for development in later books.
A likeable story, and a must for those who enjoy Midsummer Murders.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This has everything one should expect from a cosy murder mystery. Eccentric characters, hidden secrets, sexual rivalries, family feuds, hidden grudges – not to mention church steeples and mullioned windows.
A prologue introduces the characters nicely with the murder happening straightaway. This is a long book with many characters and storylines, and it could have become confusing, but the author has a nice way of reminding you who each character is and where they fit into the story. The description of Faulkner leaves plenty of potential for development in later books.
A likeable story, and a must for those who enjoy Midsummer Murders.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
The Affair of the Bloodstained Egg Cosy: An Inspector Wilkins Mystery (Inspector Wilkins Mysteries) by James Anderson
This is the first of the Inspector Wilkins Series.
That this novel was first published in 1975 and is still selling well with lots of fans all these years later, is a testament to it and the cosy mystery genre.
As a cosy parody, it has everything – literally everything. It becomes quite serious towards the end, and the answer is provided for pretty much everything.
I read it over a period of time which I think was a mistake, because I found it difficult to get properly engaged with the many storylines and characters, and the detective became lost in the various strands, which was a shame as he should have been quite an endearing character.
This is a jolly romp with plenty to keep you guessing, to be read over the course of a lazy weekend.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
That this novel was first published in 1975 and is still selling well with lots of fans all these years later, is a testament to it and the cosy mystery genre.
As a cosy parody, it has everything – literally everything. It becomes quite serious towards the end, and the answer is provided for pretty much everything.
I read it over a period of time which I think was a mistake, because I found it difficult to get properly engaged with the many storylines and characters, and the detective became lost in the various strands, which was a shame as he should have been quite an endearing character.
This is a jolly romp with plenty to keep you guessing, to be read over the course of a lazy weekend.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Elementary, Dear Watson
If someone could only to read one novel in their lives – this is the novel I would recommend. It introduces Sherlock Holmes (and Watson) to the world and it introduces them very well.
There’s lashings of elementary deduction and a surprising amount of poignancy and Providence. (Although I do agree with one reviewer on Goodreads that half way through it becomes something else, before getting back to being a Sherlock Holmes again)
If you watched the excellent BBC series with Benedict Cumberbatch and haven't yet read A Study in Scarlet – please do so, you’ll see the first ever episode in a new light.
Nina Jon is the author of the Jane Hetherington’s Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series.
If someone could only to read one novel in their lives – this is the novel I would recommend. It introduces Sherlock Holmes (and Watson) to the world and it introduces them very well.
There’s lashings of elementary deduction and a surprising amount of poignancy and Providence. (Although I do agree with one reviewer on Goodreads that half way through it becomes something else, before getting back to being a Sherlock Holmes again)
If you watched the excellent BBC series with Benedict Cumberbatch and haven't yet read A Study in Scarlet – please do so, you’ll see the first ever episode in a new light.
Nina Jon is the author of the Jane Hetherington’s Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series.
Considered by many to be her greatest work, it certainly is one of her finest. Agatha Christie herself said there are only four starters and any one of them might have committed the crime.
One detective per suspect is a great idea, although as one of them is Poirot, there's really only one. Agatha Christie thought the limited number of suspects might knock out the surprise. But it doesn't. In many ways it easier to keep up with who's who.
Poirot's thought process is as baffling as ever, and full of clues if only we could spot them. The really big clue comes though in the…
Christie at her best!
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
One detective per suspect is a great idea, although as one of them is Poirot, there's really only one. Agatha Christie thought the limited number of suspects might knock out the surprise. But it doesn't. In many ways it easier to keep up with who's who.
Poirot's thought process is as baffling as ever, and full of clues if only we could spot them. The really big clue comes though in the…
Christie at her best!
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A friend of mine recommended this series. She loves it and has all the books. The leading lady – Dandy Gilver is married to in the background Hugh and lives a fairly privileged 1920’s life. She's a cross between Daisy Dalrymple and Lady Cora from Downton. Everything is seen from her perspective and is written with a great sense of the time it is set in.
Despite her position, she's a down to earth lady, with a keen sense of humour and more forward than one might expect. Nosiness and boredom start her quest after some missing diamonds, but common humanity drives her forward when the tail darkens. In many ways, she's a reluctant sleuth, but the dogged one. Despite there being only the one storyline, the author kept me turning the pages.
Don't expect the usual money, jealousy or revenge denouement. The surprise comes as much from the why as the who?
If you enjoy Daisy Dalrymple-esque cosy mysteries, you should enjoy this.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Despite her position, she's a down to earth lady, with a keen sense of humour and more forward than one might expect. Nosiness and boredom start her quest after some missing diamonds, but common humanity drives her forward when the tail darkens. In many ways, she's a reluctant sleuth, but the dogged one. Despite there being only the one storyline, the author kept me turning the pages.
Don't expect the usual money, jealousy or revenge denouement. The surprise comes as much from the why as the who?
If you enjoy Daisy Dalrymple-esque cosy mysteries, you should enjoy this.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I bought this for its name alone. It's a quite extraordinary story set in a future world where no one’s thought to invent the Internet or the iPad, but everyone can time travel, and see their own futures. This means half the cast are in therapy. The two main, somewhat elliptical plots, centre around what Goliath are up to this time and why the narrator’s son is going to commit murder by the end of the week.
The use of the first person narrative puts us straight inside the mind of the protagonist who is an extremely engaging and quite self-effacing character. Their world runs in parallel to ours, and the author’s come up with a number of clever twists. In their world, God exists but he's Angry not Forgiving. Librarians and books are the new rock gods. They are not concerned by how to rid themselves of the national debt, but rather how to spend the national surplus.
A clever, ridiculous science-fiction thriller mystery is how I'd describe it. It's also funny and fast paced. Makes me want to get to know the series better, I hope there are more to follow.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
The use of the first person narrative puts us straight inside the mind of the protagonist who is an extremely engaging and quite self-effacing character. Their world runs in parallel to ours, and the author’s come up with a number of clever twists. In their world, God exists but he's Angry not Forgiving. Librarians and books are the new rock gods. They are not concerned by how to rid themselves of the national debt, but rather how to spend the national surplus.
A clever, ridiculous science-fiction thriller mystery is how I'd describe it. It's also funny and fast paced. Makes me want to get to know the series better, I hope there are more to follow.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A nice country house murder mystery. Credible plot and denouement with engaging characters, particularly Daisy Dalrymple. Lots of suspects and motives. The narrative is quite convincingly set in the country house murder era and the love interest between Daisy and the investigating police officer, should make you want to buy the next one to see how it turns out for them. Great fun. A must for anyone who likes a traditional British aristocracy cosy mystery.
Nina Jon is the author of the Jane Hetherington Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series. To learn more please link through www.ninajonbooks.com
Nina Jon is the author of the Jane Hetherington Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series. To learn more please link through www.ninajonbooks.com
A delightful comedic murder mystery, set in small town America, where the usual petty jealousies abound, on this occasion spilling over into the murder of a local lady. The first in the series, the story introduces us to sassy, breezy, Rose, who uses her journalistic credentials to investigate and solve such murder is. It's a fun page turner and isn't laid down with emotional navel-gazing. Violence and foul language are kept to minimum. The author successfully conceals the villain until the last moment.
One for a lazy weekend.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
One for a lazy weekend.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A memorable psychological drama.
I ordered and read this on my Kindle, immediately after finishing The Pursued by the same author. If anything I enjoyed it even more.
Poor Mr Marble, he's trapped in a stultifying job and marriage (as he sees it) and drowning in debt. His taste for whiskey doesn't help. Temptation arrives in the form of a wealthy relative, temptation he seizes without a thought for the consequences. Unfortunately for Mr Marble, this novel is a tale of consequences. Rather than the freedom he sought, has Mr Marble’s act of spontaneity condemned him to spend the rest of his days trapped in a vice of lies and deceit, from which no amount of wealth can release him?
Forrester’s appeal to me lies in his ability to take us seamlessly from the internal tortures of one character to another. In this way, he rackets up the tension bit by bit. We may not like the characters, but privy as we are to their innermost thoughts, we understand them and empathise.
I won't spoil the ending, but it takes an unexpected form.
A dark domestic tale, a murder mystery and psychological thriller rolled into one.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I ordered and read this on my Kindle, immediately after finishing The Pursued by the same author. If anything I enjoyed it even more.
Poor Mr Marble, he's trapped in a stultifying job and marriage (as he sees it) and drowning in debt. His taste for whiskey doesn't help. Temptation arrives in the form of a wealthy relative, temptation he seizes without a thought for the consequences. Unfortunately for Mr Marble, this novel is a tale of consequences. Rather than the freedom he sought, has Mr Marble’s act of spontaneity condemned him to spend the rest of his days trapped in a vice of lies and deceit, from which no amount of wealth can release him?
Forrester’s appeal to me lies in his ability to take us seamlessly from the internal tortures of one character to another. In this way, he rackets up the tension bit by bit. We may not like the characters, but privy as we are to their innermost thoughts, we understand them and empathise.
I won't spoil the ending, but it takes an unexpected form.
A dark domestic tale, a murder mystery and psychological thriller rolled into one.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Poor old Agatha. When I left her at the end of the first novel, she was smooching over her neighbour. In this novel, she's got her eyes firmly fixed on at another ‘hunk’. Unfortunately for them both, he ends up in the compost heap having come off badly against a poisonous viper. How he came to be there, is the question Agatha must answer.
Agatha comes across as much more likeable in this novel than in earlier novels of this series. Others must think so as well because her friends rally around and help her crack the case, unearthing a heap of vipers along the way.
I enjoyed reading this, it was particularly nice to find out how Agatha and the other characters have grown over time.
An absolute must for the many fans of the series, and a recommend for fans of the comic detective genre.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Agatha comes across as much more likeable in this novel than in earlier novels of this series. Others must think so as well because her friends rally around and help her crack the case, unearthing a heap of vipers along the way.
I enjoyed reading this, it was particularly nice to find out how Agatha and the other characters have grown over time.
An absolute must for the many fans of the series, and a recommend for fans of the comic detective genre.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Other than knowing it was set in 1930s Britain, I had little idea what this book would be like as a read. I chose it because of its title and its classification as a Penguin Modern Classic. I half expected it to be along the lines of the Thirty-nine Steps, it isn't. Marjorie is trapped in a stultifying marriage to a man who mistreats her. Had he chosen not to mistreat her sister even more cruelly, Marjorie is to type of character who would have waited for the course of time to free her from Ted.
But this isn't a domestic tale of disappointed dreams. As the blurb describes it, The Pursued is a dark, twisted tale of murder, lust and retribution. Sex and murder drive this story, yet both are kept very firmly in the background. This is a character driven tale, not action driven.
The story is told from the viewpoint of each of the protagonists. We move from the innermost thoughts of one character to the innermost thoughts of the next. This is a very clever storytelling device, allowing us to know what the characters think is going to happen next. The suspense comes from discovering whether events unfold as the characters believe, and what ramifications follow. This is a story of consequences, a slowly paced, yet page turning psychological drama, with the most unlikely conspirator. Definitely a modern classic.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's show more Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
But this isn't a domestic tale of disappointed dreams. As the blurb describes it, The Pursued is a dark, twisted tale of murder, lust and retribution. Sex and murder drive this story, yet both are kept very firmly in the background. This is a character driven tale, not action driven.
The story is told from the viewpoint of each of the protagonists. We move from the innermost thoughts of one character to the innermost thoughts of the next. This is a very clever storytelling device, allowing us to know what the characters think is going to happen next. The suspense comes from discovering whether events unfold as the characters believe, and what ramifications follow. This is a story of consequences, a slowly paced, yet page turning psychological drama, with the most unlikely conspirator. Definitely a modern classic.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's show more Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
This is the first PD James’ novel I've read and therefore I'm unable to compare it to her other books. Although written in the 70s, tech apart, it didn't come across as dated. In some ways it reminded me of the first of the Millennium Trilogy. Both novels feature a family member who, dissatisfied with a police investigation, instruct someone outside the police to reopen the case, only to open a can of worms instead with all that entails.
The narrative structure was very easy to follow and I knew where and with whom I was the majority of the time. Being constantly privy to Cordelia Gray's innermost thoughts, gave the story immediacy. The frequent mention (and eventual appearance) of Adam Dalgleish served as a nice steppingstone between the protagonist of this novel, and the author’s most famous literary creation.
Was this the best PD James to start with? I don't know, but I think it a shame only two novels feature Cordelia Gray. Maybe Mrs James should bring her back to life, but now a sixty-something private detective, still plying her trade?
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
The narrative structure was very easy to follow and I knew where and with whom I was the majority of the time. Being constantly privy to Cordelia Gray's innermost thoughts, gave the story immediacy. The frequent mention (and eventual appearance) of Adam Dalgleish served as a nice steppingstone between the protagonist of this novel, and the author’s most famous literary creation.
Was this the best PD James to start with? I don't know, but I think it a shame only two novels feature Cordelia Gray. Maybe Mrs James should bring her back to life, but now a sixty-something private detective, still plying her trade?
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Murder in Steeple Martin is the first in the Libby Sarjeant murder mystery series, and the first Libby Sarjeant read by me. It's a cosy murder mystery along the lines of Agatha Raisin.
Unexplained accidents at the theatre and the murder of a cast member, turns Libby Sarjeant amateur theatre director, into Libby Sarjeant amateur detective. The protagonist is a likeable woman, who doesn't wish to see any murder go unsolved. Being conscientious, she also knows the show must go on and therefore carries on directing while detecting.
Like all good murder mysteries, the crime isn't solved until the last few pages, and kept me guessing. The subplots are nicely done too.
This is a popular series, and I can see why. Alongside Libby ‘Miss Marple’ Sarjeant, we meet a cast of characters set to become regulars in the series, including a possible love interest, and Fran, her psychic friend and partner in sleuthing. In this novel, they all investigate together and have fun on the way, a formula which has proved successful enough to spawn a series of ten novels so far.
One for all who prefer their murder mysteries on the less gritty side.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
Unexplained accidents at the theatre and the murder of a cast member, turns Libby Sarjeant amateur theatre director, into Libby Sarjeant amateur detective. The protagonist is a likeable woman, who doesn't wish to see any murder go unsolved. Being conscientious, she also knows the show must go on and therefore carries on directing while detecting.
Like all good murder mysteries, the crime isn't solved until the last few pages, and kept me guessing. The subplots are nicely done too.
This is a popular series, and I can see why. Alongside Libby ‘Miss Marple’ Sarjeant, we meet a cast of characters set to become regulars in the series, including a possible love interest, and Fran, her psychic friend and partner in sleuthing. In this novel, they all investigate together and have fun on the way, a formula which has proved successful enough to spawn a series of ten novels so far.
One for all who prefer their murder mysteries on the less gritty side.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I bought this from Amazon at random, as I have an interest in crime detection fiction. I didn't know what to expect, other than it’s enjoyed good sales.
I enjoyed it. Simply, the detective, Inspector Lawrence, is presented with two crimes – a murder and a theft. To solve one, he needs to solve the other. Only then do we discover whether there’s a connection.
The story moves along quite snappily, with all leads followed and various suspects eliminated until the villain is unmasked. The police officers are well-meaning and gentlemanly, something I enjoyed.
Think Ngaio Marsh’s Inspector Alleyn for the modern age.
The book ends with the first chapter of this second Inspector Lawrence, but I can’t see the book for sale yet, so I guess the rest is still being written.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
I enjoyed it. Simply, the detective, Inspector Lawrence, is presented with two crimes – a murder and a theft. To solve one, he needs to solve the other. Only then do we discover whether there’s a connection.
The story moves along quite snappily, with all leads followed and various suspects eliminated until the villain is unmasked. The police officers are well-meaning and gentlemanly, something I enjoyed.
Think Ngaio Marsh’s Inspector Alleyn for the modern age.
The book ends with the first chapter of this second Inspector Lawrence, but I can’t see the book for sale yet, so I guess the rest is still being written.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A truly moving book: cleverly and realistically told through the eyes of a fifteen-year-old Asperger's boy, Christopher. The first half of the story revolves around Christopher's search for the murderer of Wellington, his neighbour's poodle, who’s been done in with a pitchfork. Christopher, a great Sherlock Holmes fan (hence the title of the novel) can't help investigating. This ingenious plot device serves not only as an interesting whodunnit for the reader, but also allows us to step inside Christopher's mind. We begin to understand why he hates certain colours and foods, refuses to speak on certain days, hates being touched or any change to his routine; and why he responds so violently when his parameters are crossed.
The crime is solved half way through the book, and the story then becomes what I believe it is really about all the time. For although the action is only seen through Christopher's eyes, the story I read was about the strains and frustrations of living with an autistic, talented child, totally unaware of his challenging behaviour. To me, this was the story of Christopher's parents: their struggles and their failures, but more than anything, their overwhelming love for their child. A worthy winner of its many prizes.
One warning – it does contain a fair amount of very strong language.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's show more Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
The crime is solved half way through the book, and the story then becomes what I believe it is really about all the time. For although the action is only seen through Christopher's eyes, the story I read was about the strains and frustrations of living with an autistic, talented child, totally unaware of his challenging behaviour. To me, this was the story of Christopher's parents: their struggles and their failures, but more than anything, their overwhelming love for their child. A worthy winner of its many prizes.
One warning – it does contain a fair amount of very strong language.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's show more Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
One of my more unexpected Christmas presents which I've now read. If Fifty Shades of Grey and Pride and Prejudice lay together as man and wife, Fifty shades of Mr Darcy would surely be the result. It's probably not for those who like their erotica/classics unadulterated, but for everybody else it does what it says on the blurb on the back.
The Case of the Man Who Died Laughing: From the Files of Vish Puri, Most Private Investigator (Vish Puri Mysteries) by Tarquin Hall
Vish Puri – the Indian Poirot.
This is the first of the Vish Puri detective series I've read and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I found was an Agatha Christie style whodunnit set in Delhi.
Nonbeliever, Suresh Jha, is murdered by a Hindu goddess, supposedly in revenge for his cynicism. Did Kali do it? This is the question that our detective sets out to discover, enjoying all sorts of mini adventures and plenty of good food along the way.
The author, Tarquin Hall, is apparently married to a local girl and lives in Delhi and clearly drew on this in his writing. I found his semi-comedic description of an India where modernity constantly rubs up against the conviction of millions in the supernatural powers of Godmen and the gods, convincing and entertaining. The author managed to balance the various strands of the story well and brought them together at the end with a couple of nice twists.
Whether this story would have worked as credibly if set somewhere other than India, I don't know, but set where it is, it works very well.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
This is the first of the Vish Puri detective series I've read and I wasn't sure what to expect. What I found was an Agatha Christie style whodunnit set in Delhi.
Nonbeliever, Suresh Jha, is murdered by a Hindu goddess, supposedly in revenge for his cynicism. Did Kali do it? This is the question that our detective sets out to discover, enjoying all sorts of mini adventures and plenty of good food along the way.
The author, Tarquin Hall, is apparently married to a local girl and lives in Delhi and clearly drew on this in his writing. I found his semi-comedic description of an India where modernity constantly rubs up against the conviction of millions in the supernatural powers of Godmen and the gods, convincing and entertaining. The author managed to balance the various strands of the story well and brought them together at the end with a couple of nice twists.
Whether this story would have worked as credibly if set somewhere other than India, I don't know, but set where it is, it works very well.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington.
A grand finale
Having read both The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo and The Girl Who Played With Fire I had to read this one, hoping it would be as riveting as these were. It took me a bit of time to get into, mainly because the author spends the first few chapters introducing new character after new character. He doesn't stick at merely tying up loose ends from Fire either, but introduces a few new plots as well, which doesn't help, and for me this meant the novel meandered in its early stages. But such is the charisma of Salander and Blomqvist, and the power of Larsson's writing, that I read on.
The novel moved up a gear with the trial of Salander (‘A little irregular,’says the prosecutor) and from then on it was as fast-paced and as engrossing as the rest of the trilogy – with yet more plots to unfold. Despite its faults, this novel ended the series on a bang rather than a whimper, with all storylines convincingly tied up.
One of the characters describes Salander's trial thus: ‘It's about violence against women and the men who enable it.' This line encapsulates the entire series: Larsson uses fiction to at least try and empower life's victims and right some of life's wrongs, and I guess this is what makes the series so addictive.
I'm genuinely sorry to have finished the book and the trilogy, and thank you Stieg for giving the world a character as unique and compelling as Lisbeth Salander.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short show more murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less
Having read both The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo and The Girl Who Played With Fire I had to read this one, hoping it would be as riveting as these were. It took me a bit of time to get into, mainly because the author spends the first few chapters introducing new character after new character. He doesn't stick at merely tying up loose ends from Fire either, but introduces a few new plots as well, which doesn't help, and for me this meant the novel meandered in its early stages. But such is the charisma of Salander and Blomqvist, and the power of Larsson's writing, that I read on.
The novel moved up a gear with the trial of Salander (‘A little irregular,’says the prosecutor) and from then on it was as fast-paced and as engrossing as the rest of the trilogy – with yet more plots to unfold. Despite its faults, this novel ended the series on a bang rather than a whimper, with all storylines convincingly tied up.
One of the characters describes Salander's trial thus: ‘It's about violence against women and the men who enable it.' This line encapsulates the entire series: Larsson uses fiction to at least try and empower life's victims and right some of life's wrongs, and I guess this is what makes the series so addictive.
I'm genuinely sorry to have finished the book and the trilogy, and thank you Stieg for giving the world a character as unique and compelling as Lisbeth Salander.
Nina Jon is the author of the newly released Magpie Murders, a series of short show more murder mysteries with a Cluedo-esque element.
She is also the author of the Jane Hetherington's Adventures in Detection crime and mystery series, about private detective Jane Hetherington. show less