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The Hopgood Hall Murder Mysteries #2
A Contest to Kill For
The competition is fierce…. Desperate to try and rebuild the reputation of Hopgood Hall, owners Alexi Ellis and Cheryl and Drew Hopgood agree to host a realty TV baking show, spearheaded by their arrogant but enigmatic head chef Marcel Gasquet. Hopefully the ratings will bring in bookings to the struggling hotel and Cosmo, Alexi's antisocial feral cat, is hoping to get a starring role too! The temperature is high… Fiery and hot-headed, Marcel’s antics makes for brilliant television, but off-screen trouble is brewing. One of the contestants, femme fatale Juliette Hammond, makes it clear that she will do anything to secure the winning prize – even if it means sweetening up the prima donna chef. The results are deadly! So when Juliette is found dead, all eyes turn to Marcel. Has his fiery French temper got the better of him or has someone else fallen victim to Juliette’s devious ways? With the reputation of the hotel in tatters and Marcel's liberty on the line, Alexi needs answers and fast. And the only person she can turn to for help is her old friend and private eye Jack Maddox. Jack's working his own case, but he can't refuse Alexi and he knows more than anyone that this murder could cost them everything! Perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Frances Evesham and Emma Davies.
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 10, 2023
70 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
April 18, 2023
This is book 2 in the Hopgood Hall cozy mystery series. I hadn't read book 1 (and didn't realize there even was a book 1 until I had already been approved for the ARC). The author did a great job of giving me enough background that I didn't feel lost. I understood what murder Alexi solved in book 1 and everyone's relationship to each other - it was very well done. It also didn't seem overdone so I would imagine that those who did read book 1 won't feel like it's too much.
This story follows our main character Alexi as she investigates a murder at the hotel that she partially owns. She's working with the sexy private investigator Jack whose case coincides with this one so they have to spend time together. Overall, it was a decent story other than the final reveal. I was rolling my eyes so much when they revealed what happened to the dead girl - that was a let down and felt a bit silly (it was a 4 star book until then). I also got tired of the relationship focus between Alexi and Jack, especially as the book went on. "Yes, I know there was a murder at the hotel that my husband and I own, and our head chef is suspected, and we might lose our livelihood - but have you boned Jack yet???"
I wish the cat would have featured more. From the description, I was expecting more of the style of The Cat Who series. There was a good amount of the cat but he mostly hissed at people or guarded the vehicle. I also was very unclear about how big this cat is since people were asking if it was a jaguar/large wild animal. But when he was there, I enjoyed his presence.
This is a minor thing but the baking show's host was named Paul and all I could think about was Paul Hollywood. It was very distracting when the book Paul would act very different from Paul Hollywood. I'm torn between this being a petty comment, because Paul is a very common name so my brain should not fixate on one specific Paul, or a valid point since if you say "British baking competition", I think a lot of people will think of Great British Baking Show and Paul is the only continuous personality.
I think many people will enjoy this book, but it wasn't my cup of tea.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this advance review copy.
This story follows our main character Alexi as she investigates a murder at the hotel that she partially owns. She's working with the sexy private investigator Jack whose case coincides with this one so they have to spend time together. Overall, it was a decent story other than the final reveal. I was rolling my eyes so much when they revealed what happened to the dead girl - that was a let down and felt a bit silly (it was a 4 star book until then). I also got tired of the relationship focus between Alexi and Jack, especially as the book went on. "Yes, I know there was a murder at the hotel that my husband and I own, and our head chef is suspected, and we might lose our livelihood - but have you boned Jack yet???"
I wish the cat would have featured more. From the description, I was expecting more of the style of The Cat Who series. There was a good amount of the cat but he mostly hissed at people or guarded the vehicle. I also was very unclear about how big this cat is since people were asking if it was a jaguar/large wild animal. But when he was there, I enjoyed his presence.
This is a minor thing but the baking show's host was named Paul and all I could think about was Paul Hollywood. It was very distracting when the book Paul would act very different from Paul Hollywood. I'm torn between this being a petty comment, because Paul is a very common name so my brain should not fixate on one specific Paul, or a valid point since if you say "British baking competition", I think a lot of people will think of Great British Baking Show and Paul is the only continuous personality.
I think many people will enjoy this book, but it wasn't my cup of tea.
Thank you to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for this advance review copy.
May 15, 2023
This is the second book in the Hopgood Hall cozy mystery series, set in racing country near Newbury.
Alexi has bought into the hotel run by her best friend and her husband, building a new conference annexe in the grounds where the unsightly cabins were. Things are going well, she's settled into a cottage nearby, and Cosmo the cat is still terrorizing the locals, but loves Toby, the resident terrier who lives at the hotel.
To bring money into the hotel, a cooking reality show is being filmed in the conference centre, like a Big Brother type is show where everything is filmed. Marcel, the temperamental chef at the hotel is the main draw. The company filming the show is an offshoot of the company who bought the newspaper Alexi used to work for, and she's sure her ex had a hand in assigning the work to Hopgood Hall.
When one of the contestants is found dead, Alexi is reunited with Jack Maddox, ex Met Police now PI, when a case he is working on seems to overlap with the contestant who died. There are definite sparks between Alexi and Jack, but their focus is on clearing Marcel's name and therefore the reputation of the hotel.
It's a great cozy mystery series, Cosmo is a great character, typical feisty feline. The books are all standalone stories but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
I can't wait for the next book to be released.
Alexi has bought into the hotel run by her best friend and her husband, building a new conference annexe in the grounds where the unsightly cabins were. Things are going well, she's settled into a cottage nearby, and Cosmo the cat is still terrorizing the locals, but loves Toby, the resident terrier who lives at the hotel.
To bring money into the hotel, a cooking reality show is being filmed in the conference centre, like a Big Brother type is show where everything is filmed. Marcel, the temperamental chef at the hotel is the main draw. The company filming the show is an offshoot of the company who bought the newspaper Alexi used to work for, and she's sure her ex had a hand in assigning the work to Hopgood Hall.
When one of the contestants is found dead, Alexi is reunited with Jack Maddox, ex Met Police now PI, when a case he is working on seems to overlap with the contestant who died. There are definite sparks between Alexi and Jack, but their focus is on clearing Marcel's name and therefore the reputation of the hotel.
It's a great cozy mystery series, Cosmo is a great character, typical feisty feline. The books are all standalone stories but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
I can't wait for the next book to be released.
May 8, 2023
Publication Date: 10th May 2023
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Engaging
The owners of Hopgood Hall, Alexis, Cheryl, and Drew, agree o host a reality baking show. They could do with some money to repair and maintain the estate. Their temperamental chef, Marcel Gasquet, heads the show, promising good ratings and extra business for the estate.
Of course, things are complicated off-screen. Juliette Hammond, one of the contestants, makes enemies in a blink, and everyone seems to know she’ll do anything to win the contest. However, none of them imagine she’d get killed in the process.
With Marcel as the prime suspect, Alexis once again has to play detective and find the killer to save the estate. The local PI, Jack Maddox, is more than happy to help, and together with Alexis, they will get to the bottom of the case.
The story comes in the limited-third person POV of Alexis and Jack.
My Thoughts:
I missed out on book one of the series, though it wasn’t a problem in reading book two. This works well as a standalone with enough information to fill the gaps and provide the backstory.
The plot moves at a decent pace (slow in the second half) but has enough twists, developments, and red herrings to keep the reader invested.
There’s a subplot of Alexis and Jack’s ‘will they/ won’t they’ relationship. I didn’t feel much invested in it, but I dislike Patrick (the other guy), so Jack has my vote.
The book also takes up a couple of social issues and weaves them into the plot. It doesn’t get preachy and stays true to the genre.
I’m not too impressed by the reveal (though I guessed 70% right). While I see the intent, the whole thing feels a little bland (even cozies need some excitement). A bit of drama might have enhanced the scene.
Cosmos is Alexis’ black feral cat, larger than average and something people might mistake for a panther. I see his appeal, though I want to ‘really see’ how he terrorizes others instead of hearing about his growling, hissing, etc. Cosmos’ aggressive personality doesn’t come all out in this book, while his playfulness and love for Alexis and Jack are easy to see.
The baking contest is the main theme. However, we don’t get much of it. I expected there would be at least a couple of full-fledged scenes where we actually see the contestants baking. There are only passing references. We get a lot of ‘love cooking’, ‘passion of baking’, etc., but see none of it.
Though the book is set in a small town, it doesn’t exactly give the same vibes as a small-town cozy. This one is limited to the estate, which works for the plot. There’s already a filming crew, so it makes sense to limit the characters.
Alexis is level-headed, and Jack has good instincts. They do make a good pair (investigation-wise and otherwise). I feel I’ll connect more with them when I read the next book or two (I sure intend to).
To summarize, A Contest to Kill is an engaging cozy mystery with characters I could grow to love. Cosmos is already a favorite for being a smarty. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Marcela Torres from Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #AContestToKill
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Engaging
The owners of Hopgood Hall, Alexis, Cheryl, and Drew, agree o host a reality baking show. They could do with some money to repair and maintain the estate. Their temperamental chef, Marcel Gasquet, heads the show, promising good ratings and extra business for the estate.
Of course, things are complicated off-screen. Juliette Hammond, one of the contestants, makes enemies in a blink, and everyone seems to know she’ll do anything to win the contest. However, none of them imagine she’d get killed in the process.
With Marcel as the prime suspect, Alexis once again has to play detective and find the killer to save the estate. The local PI, Jack Maddox, is more than happy to help, and together with Alexis, they will get to the bottom of the case.
The story comes in the limited-third person POV of Alexis and Jack.
My Thoughts:
I missed out on book one of the series, though it wasn’t a problem in reading book two. This works well as a standalone with enough information to fill the gaps and provide the backstory.
The plot moves at a decent pace (slow in the second half) but has enough twists, developments, and red herrings to keep the reader invested.
There’s a subplot of Alexis and Jack’s ‘will they/ won’t they’ relationship. I didn’t feel much invested in it, but I dislike Patrick (the other guy), so Jack has my vote.
The book also takes up a couple of social issues and weaves them into the plot. It doesn’t get preachy and stays true to the genre.
I’m not too impressed by the reveal (though I guessed 70% right). While I see the intent, the whole thing feels a little bland (even cozies need some excitement). A bit of drama might have enhanced the scene.
Cosmos is Alexis’ black feral cat, larger than average and something people might mistake for a panther. I see his appeal, though I want to ‘really see’ how he terrorizes others instead of hearing about his growling, hissing, etc. Cosmos’ aggressive personality doesn’t come all out in this book, while his playfulness and love for Alexis and Jack are easy to see.
The baking contest is the main theme. However, we don’t get much of it. I expected there would be at least a couple of full-fledged scenes where we actually see the contestants baking. There are only passing references. We get a lot of ‘love cooking’, ‘passion of baking’, etc., but see none of it.
Though the book is set in a small town, it doesn’t exactly give the same vibes as a small-town cozy. This one is limited to the estate, which works for the plot. There’s already a filming crew, so it makes sense to limit the characters.
Alexis is level-headed, and Jack has good instincts. They do make a good pair (investigation-wise and otherwise). I feel I’ll connect more with them when I read the next book or two (I sure intend to).
To summarize, A Contest to Kill is an engaging cozy mystery with characters I could grow to love. Cosmos is already a favorite for being a smarty. Looking forward to the next in the series.
Thank you, NetGalley and Marcela Torres from Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #AContestToKill
May 11, 2023
In book one, newly redundant journalist Alexi Ellis, together with her enormous feral cat Cosmo, ditched her rat of a boyfriend, rented out her London flat and retreated to the horse racing village of Lambourn in Berkshire to reassess her life under the care of her old best friend Cheryl and her husband Drew at his family home of Hopgood Hall which they have turned into a boutique hotel. She met private investigator Jack Maddox, a former Met detective and together they were instrumental in solving a murder, and now Alexi has taken a cottage in the village from which to write a book about the case and has invested in the hotel, enabling it to add a swish conference centre. It is one of five places hosting the heats of “What’s For Dinner?”, a tv reality cooking competition where the two male and two female contestants will be filmed 24/7 for six weeks. Four very diverse individuals are hoping for a place in the final and a year’s training under the hotel’s charismatic but volatile chef, Marcel, a French sounding Cockney. The show is on its second week when Jack drops by on his way home from tailing a suspect in a bogus loan enquiry to find one of the four, blonde bombshell Juliette, has been murdered, stabbed with one of Marcel’s knives only a couple of hours after she had a steamy liaison with him. So who would have wanted the woman dead? Certainly not prime suspect Marcel, Alexi and Jack believe, and so they set out to clear his name. Juliette certainly upset a lot of people and there are plenty of suspects but how could someone have got away with it under the scrutiny of all those cameras? A surprising link shows up to Jack’s case, but will it bring the pair of sleuths any closer to exposing a killer?
This is an excellent follow up to book one where the very likeable main characters were introduced, all with their own skills to add to the mix and still the “will they/won’t they” question hovers over Jack and Alexi, but once again for me the absolute star of the story simply has to be Cosmo, the incredibly large black cat who inspires hero worship in Toby the terrier and mortal fear in anyone he decides to torment. With an engrossing and twisty plot and lots of red herrings to confuse the reader, this is a book incredibly easy to get lost in and enjoy. I am looking forward to book three, A Marriage To Murder For, already.
This is an excellent follow up to book one where the very likeable main characters were introduced, all with their own skills to add to the mix and still the “will they/won’t they” question hovers over Jack and Alexi, but once again for me the absolute star of the story simply has to be Cosmo, the incredibly large black cat who inspires hero worship in Toby the terrier and mortal fear in anyone he decides to torment. With an engrossing and twisty plot and lots of red herrings to confuse the reader, this is a book incredibly easy to get lost in and enjoy. I am looking forward to book three, A Marriage To Murder For, already.
May 12, 2023
Midsomer Murders meets The Great British Bake-Off in the latest Hopgood Hall mystery by E V Hunter, A Contest to Kill For.
Hopgood Hall is in trouble and owners Alexi Ellis and Cheryl and Drew Hopgood are absolutely desperate to repair the hotel’s reputation. When the opportunity to host a reality TV baking show comes around, the owners are simply delighted. This is just what they need to reverse the hotel’s fortune and help fill up the empty rooms of the property. With fiery chef Marcel Gasquet taking centre stage, this reality show promises plenty of drama, tears and tantrums. However, it quickly transpires that what’s happening behind the scenes is far more juicy, shocking and scandalous than anything in front of the camera…
Contestant Juliette will do anything to win this contest – even offering herself up on a plate to Marcel. Putting the other contestants’ backs up is par for the course for ambitious femme fatale Juliette. So when she is found dead, the list of possible suspects is endless, however, the finger of suspicion is pointing squarely at Marcel. Has his legendary hot-temper got the better of him? Did he snap and kill Juliette? Or is he begin set up?
With the hotel’s name being dragged through the mud and Marcel’s freedom at risk, Alexi needs answers and fast. Turning to Jack Maddox, her old friend and a private investigator, seems like the only logical conclusion. But can Jack get to the bottom of this case? Will he find out whodunnit? Or will this be a case even he cannot solve?
Cozy mystery fans will be delighted by E V Hunter’s witty, tense and intriguing new mystery, A Contest to Kill For. A comic crime caper that will keep readers turning the pages, this nail-biting cozy mystery is packed with twists and turns, shocking revelations and scandalous secrets that make E V Hunter’s A Contest to Kill For a book that has to be read in a single irresistible sitting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Hopgood Hall is in trouble and owners Alexi Ellis and Cheryl and Drew Hopgood are absolutely desperate to repair the hotel’s reputation. When the opportunity to host a reality TV baking show comes around, the owners are simply delighted. This is just what they need to reverse the hotel’s fortune and help fill up the empty rooms of the property. With fiery chef Marcel Gasquet taking centre stage, this reality show promises plenty of drama, tears and tantrums. However, it quickly transpires that what’s happening behind the scenes is far more juicy, shocking and scandalous than anything in front of the camera…
Contestant Juliette will do anything to win this contest – even offering herself up on a plate to Marcel. Putting the other contestants’ backs up is par for the course for ambitious femme fatale Juliette. So when she is found dead, the list of possible suspects is endless, however, the finger of suspicion is pointing squarely at Marcel. Has his legendary hot-temper got the better of him? Did he snap and kill Juliette? Or is he begin set up?
With the hotel’s name being dragged through the mud and Marcel’s freedom at risk, Alexi needs answers and fast. Turning to Jack Maddox, her old friend and a private investigator, seems like the only logical conclusion. But can Jack get to the bottom of this case? Will he find out whodunnit? Or will this be a case even he cannot solve?
Cozy mystery fans will be delighted by E V Hunter’s witty, tense and intriguing new mystery, A Contest to Kill For. A comic crime caper that will keep readers turning the pages, this nail-biting cozy mystery is packed with twists and turns, shocking revelations and scandalous secrets that make E V Hunter’s A Contest to Kill For a book that has to be read in a single irresistible sitting.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 7, 2023
Alexi, Jack and Cosmo (her cat with a real attitude) are faced with another murder to solve. After her job in journalism gets cut due to downsizing (or as she says "dumbing down") Alexi headed into the countryside to the village of Lambourn at the invitation of close friends Cheryl and her husband Drew.They have turned Drew's family home into a boutique hotel and, thanks to help from Alexi, business is getting better. One of Alexi's ideas brings a baking contest to the hotel but murder is an unwelcome addition. It's bad enough that their very talented chef, Marcel, is a hot head but, when one of the women in the contest turns up dead, Marcel becomes the prime suspect.
Jack is a PI who teamed up with Alexi in the first book, A Date to Die For and it looks like solving murders is right up their alley. It can be said that being a very talented journalist makes for a good investigator. With plenty of suspects, red herrings and twists to the puzzle, this is a series I will be adding to my TBR list. Besides a cast of recurring characters of the human variety, the addition of two pets - Cosmo, the former street kitty who adopted Alexi and Toby, Cheryl and Drew's dog, makes this a mystery that checks all of the boxes for a very satisfying cozy series.
My thanks to the publisher Boldweed Books and the NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Jack is a PI who teamed up with Alexi in the first book, A Date to Die For and it looks like solving murders is right up their alley. It can be said that being a very talented journalist makes for a good investigator. With plenty of suspects, red herrings and twists to the puzzle, this is a series I will be adding to my TBR list. Besides a cast of recurring characters of the human variety, the addition of two pets - Cosmo, the former street kitty who adopted Alexi and Toby, Cheryl and Drew's dog, makes this a mystery that checks all of the boxes for a very satisfying cozy series.
My thanks to the publisher Boldweed Books and the NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
August 6, 2024
Trying to recover their business after the last murder case, Alexi and her friends host a cookery show at their hotel. But death isn't far behind...
A Contest To Kill For is the second book in this series featuring journalist Alexi and private investigator Jack. There are spoilers about the last case which occurred in the first book A Date To Die For.
Four contestants are battling it out on a reality cooking show when one is found dead. The main suspect is head chef Marcel who admits to sleeping with the contestant and his knife was used to stab the body. But he declares his innocence and Alexi and Jack believe him. Plus the hotel needs him to be exonerated to save their own reputation!
Alexi and Jack grew close in the last book but they have been apart while they try to sort out their lives and emotions. This leaves a romantically charged atmosphere in this book especially as Alexi's ex is on the scene. Alexi's huge cat Cosmo has a starring role once more which offers some light relief and softens the tone.
The murder happens quite early on and the amateur sleuths spring into action trying to clear their friend Marcel's name. The chapters are quite long and I felt that this slowed the pace. There are twists and reveals up until the end to keep us guessing
A Contest To Kill For is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
A Contest To Kill For is the second book in this series featuring journalist Alexi and private investigator Jack. There are spoilers about the last case which occurred in the first book A Date To Die For.
Four contestants are battling it out on a reality cooking show when one is found dead. The main suspect is head chef Marcel who admits to sleeping with the contestant and his knife was used to stab the body. But he declares his innocence and Alexi and Jack believe him. Plus the hotel needs him to be exonerated to save their own reputation!
Alexi and Jack grew close in the last book but they have been apart while they try to sort out their lives and emotions. This leaves a romantically charged atmosphere in this book especially as Alexi's ex is on the scene. Alexi's huge cat Cosmo has a starring role once more which offers some light relief and softens the tone.
The murder happens quite early on and the amateur sleuths spring into action trying to clear their friend Marcel's name. The chapters are quite long and I felt that this slowed the pace. There are twists and reveals up until the end to keep us guessing
A Contest To Kill For is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
May 10, 2023
‘AContest To Kill For’ by E.V. Hunter is a Hopgood Hall Murder Mystery and is set in the English countryside. Alexi has invested in the hotel to help her friends Cheryl and Drew. They hope that the filming of a baking reality show will help their profile and will bring in more business. Head chef Marcel is unpredictable, and exactly what the TV producers want to increase ratings. But the death of one of the contestants changes everything. Marcel is the No.1 suspect and if Alexi can’t find out the truth, the hotel will be finished. With the help of private detective Jack Maddox, she races against the clock find the culprit.
Although I haven’t read the first book in the series, I had no problem jumping right in. The mystery is well told and the characters well written. I thought Alexi and Jack worked perfectly as a team, as each had their own unique skills to bring to the investigation. The author managed to create a family feel to the story, as the relationships between the characters felt real. I especially enjoyed Cosmo the cat, a fun and very welcome part of the team.
An enjoyable story with characters I want to see more of in the future.
I was given this ARC to review.
Although I haven’t read the first book in the series, I had no problem jumping right in. The mystery is well told and the characters well written. I thought Alexi and Jack worked perfectly as a team, as each had their own unique skills to bring to the investigation. The author managed to create a family feel to the story, as the relationships between the characters felt real. I especially enjoyed Cosmo the cat, a fun and very welcome part of the team.
An enjoyable story with characters I want to see more of in the future.
I was given this ARC to review.
April 28, 2023
A Contest to Kill For is Book 2 in the Hopgood Hotel mysteries. I have read book 1 and think it helps to have read it when heading into book 2, not for the main part of the mystery, but when the mystery becomes tighter and more twisty.
Alexi and Jack, our 'will they, won't they' couple, find themselves flung back together when one of the stars of the cookery competition is found dead in her bedroom. With everyone being recorded almost 24/7, how could someone have been murdered and it not been witnessed by these cameras?
As events escalate, Marcel, the grumpy chef, becomes the prime suspect as the TV company distances itself from the allegations. Over to Alexi and Jack to clear his name, if they can.
As with Book 1, this is a twisty mystery, and nothing is quite as it seems as the mystery nears its conclusion. It does help to have read book one as the mystery deepens to appreciate all the nuances fully.
This is an engaging read, and once again, I failed to guess the culprit, which is always a sign of a good story.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my review copy.
Alexi and Jack, our 'will they, won't they' couple, find themselves flung back together when one of the stars of the cookery competition is found dead in her bedroom. With everyone being recorded almost 24/7, how could someone have been murdered and it not been witnessed by these cameras?
As events escalate, Marcel, the grumpy chef, becomes the prime suspect as the TV company distances itself from the allegations. Over to Alexi and Jack to clear his name, if they can.
As with Book 1, this is a twisty mystery, and nothing is quite as it seems as the mystery nears its conclusion. It does help to have read book one as the mystery deepens to appreciate all the nuances fully.
This is an engaging read, and once again, I failed to guess the culprit, which is always a sign of a good story.
My thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for my review copy.
May 15, 2023
This is book 2 in the Alexi Ellis series by EV Hunter and I’ve really enjoyed both. I still think the star of the books is Cosmo, and he becomes a star in his own right during this one, being filmed during the reality cooking show is being held at the hotel.
All is going well until one of the amateur chefs is found murdered - Juliette, the one that no one gets on with and no one seems sorry she’s dead. Unfortunately, the head chef becomes the prime suspect so it is up to Alexi and Jack to clear his name and save the hotel.
I didn’t have a clue for most of the book who was responsible, there were so many suspects but so many had alibis. I remember from the first book you have to look at the characters that are introduced but don’t really take centre stage to work out who it is, but still didn’t figure it out.
A great cosy whodunnit, and a series I’ll definitely carry on with.
All is going well until one of the amateur chefs is found murdered - Juliette, the one that no one gets on with and no one seems sorry she’s dead. Unfortunately, the head chef becomes the prime suspect so it is up to Alexi and Jack to clear his name and save the hotel.
I didn’t have a clue for most of the book who was responsible, there were so many suspects but so many had alibis. I remember from the first book you have to look at the characters that are introduced but don’t really take centre stage to work out who it is, but still didn’t figure it out.
A great cosy whodunnit, and a series I’ll definitely carry on with.
January 13, 2024
A cooking contest turns deadly.
Alexi has partnered with Drew and Cheryl to make Hopgood Hall into a money-making, successful venture. Leaving London and Patrick behind, Alexi is focusing on life in the horse country, free-lancing her journalistic skills. Hopgood Hall is the site of a televised cooking contest featuring the inn’s own chef, Marcel, and three other chefs. When Juliette, the most attractive of the cast, is found murdered, suspicion shifts to Marcel. Jack appears back at the inn just at the right time to join forces with Alexi to help defend Marcel and keep the inn profitable. It’s winter time, but things begin to warm up between Jack and Alexi as they investigate suspects whose histories intertwine. Fast-moving and Cosmos remains the irascible guard cat.
Alexi has partnered with Drew and Cheryl to make Hopgood Hall into a money-making, successful venture. Leaving London and Patrick behind, Alexi is focusing on life in the horse country, free-lancing her journalistic skills. Hopgood Hall is the site of a televised cooking contest featuring the inn’s own chef, Marcel, and three other chefs. When Juliette, the most attractive of the cast, is found murdered, suspicion shifts to Marcel. Jack appears back at the inn just at the right time to join forces with Alexi to help defend Marcel and keep the inn profitable. It’s winter time, but things begin to warm up between Jack and Alexi as they investigate suspects whose histories intertwine. Fast-moving and Cosmos remains the irascible guard cat.
May 4, 2023
This is book 2 in a series, which I didn't know before I read it, which is my fault. It's probably best that you read book 1 first, but she did a good job summarizing so it wasn't absolutely necessary.
It was a good mystery. I liked the baking show element, but I wish there was a little more of it. It definitely doesn't take a long time before someone gets murdered, so if you're wanting a book of complete mystery solving, this one is for you.
I think the author did a good job with the clues and how they were put throughout the plot. I did have a feeling who did it soon into the book, but I think I just had a lucky guess.
Overall, a really good murder mystery book! I'd recommend it.
It was a good mystery. I liked the baking show element, but I wish there was a little more of it. It definitely doesn't take a long time before someone gets murdered, so if you're wanting a book of complete mystery solving, this one is for you.
I think the author did a good job with the clues and how they were put throughout the plot. I did have a feeling who did it soon into the book, but I think I just had a lucky guess.
Overall, a really good murder mystery book! I'd recommend it.
May 12, 2023
I really enjoyed this mystery. It is an intriguing closed room mystery set at a hotel filming a reality cooking competition. It is the second book in the Hopgood Hall Murder Mystery series but is able to be enjoyed as a stand-alone. I really enjoyed the MC, Alexi, as well as most of the characters in the book. My favorite is the cat, Cosmo. Who doesn’t love a cat that travels everywhere the owner goes and acts as a guard cat?! There is a little romance and a few side stories to keep you entertained. There is plenty of misdirection so I was unable to determine who the killer was with certainty until the end. This was a fun read and I look forward to reading more by E.V. Hunter.
May 15, 2023
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for a free ARC for my review.
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery following Jack and Alexi as they uncover the clues with just the right amount of suspense, drama and flirting. Cosmo continues to bring cuteness and comedy to the second book in this series.
I found this an easy fast paced read where the mystery kept me guessing up to the end. I liked that the suspense was not overwhelming, and the comic relief came right at the right time. With a few swoony worthy moments along the way too.
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery following Jack and Alexi as they uncover the clues with just the right amount of suspense, drama and flirting. Cosmo continues to bring cuteness and comedy to the second book in this series.
I found this an easy fast paced read where the mystery kept me guessing up to the end. I liked that the suspense was not overwhelming, and the comic relief came right at the right time. With a few swoony worthy moments along the way too.
May 23, 2023
A Contest To Kill For by E V Hunter is a marvellous contemporary cosy crime novel. It is the second book in The Hopwood Hall Murder Mystery series but can be read as a stand-alone. I thoroughly enjoyed catching up with familiar faces.
Once more we follow the amateur super sleuths of a P.I. and a former newspaper reporter. Together they have the brain power to unravel the clues and to see where they lead.
The pair are joined by Cosmo, a rather ferocious feline companion who is discerning about the company he keeps. He is very much a character in his own right. As a crazy cat lady, I loved Cosmo with his unique personality!
A retreat to a country hotel should bring peace and tranquility but then a body is discovered. Suspicion casts a wide net as alibis are sought.
E V Hunter spins a comprehensive tale that has the reader entertained, glued and guessing. The Hopwood Hall Murder Mysteries would make a fabulous early evening television series – any producers out there, please take note!
I have thoroughly enjoyed my visits to Hopwood Hall and look forward to subsequent ones.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was no required. All opinions are my own.
Once more we follow the amateur super sleuths of a P.I. and a former newspaper reporter. Together they have the brain power to unravel the clues and to see where they lead.
The pair are joined by Cosmo, a rather ferocious feline companion who is discerning about the company he keeps. He is very much a character in his own right. As a crazy cat lady, I loved Cosmo with his unique personality!
A retreat to a country hotel should bring peace and tranquility but then a body is discovered. Suspicion casts a wide net as alibis are sought.
E V Hunter spins a comprehensive tale that has the reader entertained, glued and guessing. The Hopwood Hall Murder Mysteries would make a fabulous early evening television series – any producers out there, please take note!
I have thoroughly enjoyed my visits to Hopwood Hall and look forward to subsequent ones.
I received a free copy from Rachel’s Random Resources. A favourable review was no required. All opinions are my own.
May 4, 2023
Held my interest to the end.
The mystery is exceptionally well done with believable characters (including the cat!), good world building, and witticisms. The other level is the relationship between Alexi and Jack which is as up and down as the mystery is twisty. Very good read.
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you
The mystery is exceptionally well done with believable characters (including the cat!), good world building, and witticisms. The other level is the relationship between Alexi and Jack which is as up and down as the mystery is twisty. Very good read.
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you
May 12, 2023
A great return to Hopgood Hall where Alexi and her friends Cheryl and Drew have opened a boutique hotel which is now one of the venues of a reality TV cooking competition. When one of the competitors is killed, Hopgood Hall’s own chef is the main suspect. Jack Maddox once again is on hand to help Alexi and her friends determine who is the guilty party.
May 30, 2023
E.V. Hunter delivers another delightful cozy, entertaining and full of twists. I enjoyed it even if the culinary contest if quite a common trope in the cozy world and I think it's becoming a bit overused.
The mystery is solid, kept me guessing. The story is entertaining and I enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
The mystery is solid, kept me guessing. The story is entertaining and I enjoyed it.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this arc, all opinions are mine
September 7, 2023
a great idea a cooking competition
What started out as a celebrity hosting a competition, turned into a murder. The chef I pictured as Marco Pierre White with his fiery temper. The only one universally hated was the rich bitch who trampled over everyone. A good read for those who like well written crimes.
What started out as a celebrity hosting a competition, turned into a murder. The chef I pictured as Marco Pierre White with his fiery temper. The only one universally hated was the rich bitch who trampled over everyone. A good read for those who like well written crimes.
June 28, 2023
Intriguing murder mystery
I couldn't put this book down until I found out who the murderer was.There were so many suspects that I couldn't figure out who it was.
I liked that it has some romance thrown in along with a good ending. It was an enjoyable read.
I couldn't put this book down until I found out who the murderer was.There were so many suspects that I couldn't figure out who it was.
I liked that it has some romance thrown in along with a good ending. It was an enjoyable read.
April 12, 2024
A Contest to kill for
I enjoyed this book as I did the first one. Well written, certainly understandable in the current “celebrity “ mode. I look forward to reading about Hopgood Hall, what happens next & wether Cosmo behaves himself.
I enjoyed this book as I did the first one. Well written, certainly understandable in the current “celebrity “ mode. I look forward to reading about Hopgood Hall, what happens next & wether Cosmo behaves himself.
January 27, 2025
When I picked this up last year, I wasn't in the mood to listen to an audiobook, so I judged the book unfairly. I may have been a bit dramatic, but now that I've finished it, it wasn't terrible. Will I continue with Hopgood Hall Murder Mysteries? I'm not sure; it's yet to be determined.
June 10, 2025
4.25
I'm really enjoying this series so far. I'm really enjoying watching Jack and Alexi's chemistry grow. I also really enjoying Cosmo getting into trouble and being protective of Alexi. I really loved seeing more of the family life of Drew and Cheryl as they became parents and are drumming up business for their hotel, that seems to attract murders. I really enjoyed this story a little more than the first one because we got more of Jack and Alexi working together and finally getting together.
I'm really enjoying this series so far. I'm really enjoying watching Jack and Alexi's chemistry grow. I also really enjoying Cosmo getting into trouble and being protective of Alexi. I really loved seeing more of the family life of Drew and Cheryl as they became parents and are drumming up business for their hotel, that seems to attract murders. I really enjoyed this story a little more than the first one because we got more of Jack and Alexi working together and finally getting together.
May 17, 2023
Love this series can't wait for book 3
October 12, 2023
Another great read.
I enjoyed this as much as the first. The plot was good, the main characters are engaging and I am enjoying the developing relationships.
I enjoyed this as much as the first. The plot was good, the main characters are engaging and I am enjoying the developing relationships.
March 19, 2024
Who killed Juliette and why??? She was vindictive??? I enjoyed this story and recommended the book.
March 19, 2024
This is not the actual date I finished the book. It’s the day I removed it from my Kindle. Lost interest!
November 8, 2024
Women never seem to get along in Hunter's books, but there's a black cat and a friendly terrier. A little bit of romance. Good entertainment.
May 3, 2025
The second Hopgood Hall murder had Alexi and Jack sleuthing together to solve the murder of a reality TV contestant. Lots of suspects so I was kept guessing. Nice easy read.
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