I was reading this while I was actually visiting Ferndale, one of the sources for her fictional town. IT was fun to adjust my perceptions based on this charming small town. ( )

I binged the previous 3 books in this series just so I would be ready for this book. It was worth it! The previous ones were really good and made the reading of this one that much more enjoyable.

Shannon and her BFF Jane are preparing to break ground on the massive renovation of the Gables. The Gables had previously been an insane asylum, one where Jane's mother had actually been hospitalized on and off. The town had authorized the conversion of the hospital into a complex of shops provided that the historical facades were maintained. Jane wanted to turn a sad place into a place where people would find pleasure so she signed up convert Building 7 into a luxury hotel and spa.

On ground breaking day, a group of protestors disrupt the ceremonies shouting to burn down the facility. The protestors bring to the forefront the history of the Gables and that is major for the plot. The renovations that are described would make me want to stay at the Hennessey Hotel when they are done.

The regular cast of characters continue to expand their personalities and connections to each other as well as bring them very vividly to life.

What a great way to finish my reading for 2020 - s horrible year with a great book. ( )

Unlike other cozies, there isn't a corpse within the first couple pages. I really like how Carlisle skillfully leads up to a murder in this series, weaving both clues and new characters so seamlessly that close reading is a must. The renovation of a former insane asylum adds a bit of an unsettling edge to the story. Shannon's friend Jane is planning a hotel at part of The Gables renovation and Shannon's crew is getting things up and running to begin the task. The history of the asylum is germane to the plot. Although founded in the 19th century, it was in use until just a couple short decades ago. Shannon and Mac's relationship gets some air time here as well, as the duo helps the local authorities figure out the crime. ( )

Premeditated Mortar by Kate Carlisle is a compelling cozy mystery. Shannon Hammer, Mac Sullivan, Jane Hennessey, and the gang are back. Jane has purchased the seventh building at the Gables which was once the Northern California Asylum for the Insane. The buildings have been abandoned for years but there is no denying the potential. Shannon cannot wait to start the project with her crew. It will take a year to turn the Victorian building into the Hennessey Hotel. Some people, though, are not excited about the project and set out to derail it. I thought Premeditated Mortar was well-written with developed characters and steady pacing. I enjoyed the descriptions of the town and the Gables. The author’s vivid word imagery brought the scenes alive for me. The mystery was multifaceted and creative. There are several viable suspects, misdirection, and subtle clues. I had a good time following this whodunit and figuring out the identity of the guilty party. I like how the romance is progressing between Mac and Shannon. We also get to catch up with Chloe and Eric as well as Jane and Niall. Romance is blooming in Lighthouse Cove and the ending has me eager for the next A Fixer-Upper Mystery. Premeditated Mortar can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series or if you have missed a book or two. Premeditated Mortar is a diverting cozy mystery with malicious mischief, creepy corridors, awesome architecture, flourishing romances, and a perplexing puzzle. ( )

Whenever I need a well-written cozy to take my mind off things, Kate Carlisle's Fixer-Upper series always does the trick. In Premeditated Mortar, she's got the perfect setting for a mystery-- an old rundown former insane asylum. There's just got to be strange goings-on in a place like that, right? This is an engaging story with excellent pacing, and I had to laugh at Shannon's reaction when she learns just how far her reputation for stumbling over dead bodies has spread.

Like all good cozy series, the reason why readers keep coming back for more is the cast of characters. Shannon is smart, funny, and I love the work she does. I also love how she keeps her tools from disappearing-- they're all pink-- and let me tell you, it works. Carlisle gives out pink measuring tapes from time to time at her book signings. I took mine home, and I still have it, which is more than I can say about other measuring tapes I used to have. My husband has borrowed my pink one twice, but he always gives it back. I wonder why...

Carlisle recently said in an interview that her favorite characters are her men, like Shannon's boyfriend, Mac Sullivan, a drop-dead gorgeous hunk who has a great sense of humor, who's smart and funny and brave. Oh. And he also happens to be a best-selling thriller writer and former Navy SEAL. It just occurred to me what Carlisle's male characters remind me of. Remember the Bond Girls in all those James Bond movies? Carlisle has her own Bond Boys, and they are certainly tasty.

A spooky setting, an engaging mystery, and a fun cast of characters. Premeditated Mortar is good for what ails you, and I can't wait for Shannon's next adventure.

(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley) ( )