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Inspector David Graham #2
The Case of the Hidden Flame: An Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery: Volume 2 (Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery Series) by Alison Golden
Detective Inspector David Graham has just arrived on the island of Jersey, taking over a rag tag team of questionable commitment and skill at the Gorey Constabulary, a team that he is supposed to lead and develop into a cohesive investigative unit. Within minutes, his first challenge presents itself when ex-soldier, Colonel Graves, finds a dead body on the beach. As the military man kneels down, he discovers it is his soon-to-be fiancé half buried in the sand… In a small resort like Gorey, this event is monumental, and almost unheard of. The rumors swirl yet it is the new Detective Inspector’s job, with a bag still packed and travel dust on his shoes, to ferret out the clues and solve the case…while bringing his team along to assist. With a Sherlock soul, The Case of the Hidden Flame packs humor and intrigue onto a small island of eccentric characters, roiling sea undercurrents, and deceptive coincidences – all accompanied by a fine cup of tea. Interview with the Creator of the Series Q – So, what makes the Inspector David Graham series special? A – When I set out to write these books, I wanted to create something that played like a movie in the reader’s mind. They are books with action, but also soul. They are ensemble pieces containing regular characters that are well drawn with strong personalities, humor and some tragedy. The Inspector David Graham books feel, to me, like good friends that never let me down. Every time we sit down to plan the books, I love to find out what the characters are going to get up to next! The Inspector David Graham books are a great mix of genres. They sit firmly in the cozy mystery category and are set on the beautiful island of Jersey in the English Channel between Britain and France. They feature a British detective who is part-Sherlock Holmes, part-Poirot, and, of course, uniquely himself. Q - In what order should I read the books? A – The Inspector David Graham cozy mysteries can be read, and enjoyed, in any order. The Case of the Hidden Flame is the second book in the series and is set on Jersey just as Inspector Graham takes up his new post. All the books are complete mysteries. There is a prequel, The Case of the Screaming Beauty, that provides background to the series but I’ve made sure not to include any spoilers for those who are new to the characters and any existing fans of Graham’s adventures will still find plenty of fresh action and mystery as well as perhaps a few answers in it. All in all, there is something for everyone. If you do want to read them in order, I'd suggest the following – The Case of the Screaming Beauty (prequel) – The Case of the Hidden Flame – The Case of the Fallen Hero Q – Why should readers give these books a try? A – Because the Inspector Graham series is a gentle, but colorful romp through the wealthy but isolated English island, a place that is picturesque and peaceful but one filled with amoral and snobbish eccentrics with all kinds of vices. Graham is a complex character who is intriguing from the get-go and yet evolves throughout the series while his sidekicks are worthy, interesting characters in their own right. We feature many English countryside rituals, institutions and customs in these stories.
Paperback
First published December 12, 2015
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About the author
Alison Golden
102 books332 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
March 19, 2022
Very interesting. I couldn't guess the ending/perpetrator of this one.
December 22, 2017
Free cozy mystery on Kindle. The Gorey Police Station on Jersey is preparing to receive their new DI Graham due to arrive from the mainland. Graham arrives and it is clear he is very different from the previous incumbent. Just as he is settling in to the White House Inn, Colonel Graves finds a body on the beach, that of Dr Sylvia Norquist, the woman he planned to propose to, and the police station at Gorey finds itself in the midst of its first murder investigation in decades. The victim was an oncologist living at the Inn who was generally liked but as the investigation progresses, DI Graham and his new team find that more than one person did have a possible motive for doing away with Sylvia, but most of them it seems have a pretty strong alibi.
This was a quick, light and enjoyable cozy mystery. I liked the setting and characters but being early on in the series, this one just starts to tell us their stories. Graham strikes up a friendship with the pathologist and, their conversations give us a little peek into his past where there has been tragedy but we don’t know what, yet. We also don’t know what made him come to Jersey, which I think will be revealed when we read further on in the series (or perhaps in the prequel). The two constables too were fun but DS Harding, we don’t really get to know much of. Again I think, more will be seen as one reads on. The mystery itself was also fairly interesting, though not overly twisted or complicated (the murder “weapon” if I can call it that was the same as another mystery I read this year). A good start to the series.
This was a quick, light and enjoyable cozy mystery. I liked the setting and characters but being early on in the series, this one just starts to tell us their stories. Graham strikes up a friendship with the pathologist and, their conversations give us a little peek into his past where there has been tragedy but we don’t know what, yet. We also don’t know what made him come to Jersey, which I think will be revealed when we read further on in the series (or perhaps in the prequel). The two constables too were fun but DS Harding, we don’t really get to know much of. Again I think, more will be seen as one reads on. The mystery itself was also fairly interesting, though not overly twisted or complicated (the murder “weapon” if I can call it that was the same as another mystery I read this year). A good start to the series.
August 28, 2016
Detective Inspector David Graham had just arrived on the island when Colonel Graves finds a dead body on the beach. Colonel Graves discovers it is his soon to be fiance that he's found and Detective Graham and his newly formed team are called onto the case.
The Case of the Hidden Flame seems to be the second book in the David Graham series but I haven't read the first myself. This one seemed to work ok as a standalone though dealing with this particular case. The book is novella length so there isn't a ton of depth to the story and it goes by rather quickly.
While this mystery adds a bit of humor I had a bit of trouble connecting to it as detectives solving a homicide when there were a few times I was just thinking to myself really, you didn't think of that one yourself. But overall the writing was good so I'm sure others may enjoy this quick read a bit more than I did.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
The Case of the Hidden Flame seems to be the second book in the David Graham series but I haven't read the first myself. This one seemed to work ok as a standalone though dealing with this particular case. The book is novella length so there isn't a ton of depth to the story and it goes by rather quickly.
While this mystery adds a bit of humor I had a bit of trouble connecting to it as detectives solving a homicide when there were a few times I was just thinking to myself really, you didn't think of that one yourself. But overall the writing was good so I'm sure others may enjoy this quick read a bit more than I did.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
August 29, 2017
4 stars
DI David Graham is newly arrived on the Island of Jersey in the little town of Gorey. He meets his new crew: Sergeant Janice Harding who seems a little too friendly, Constable Jim Roach who believes his this is his big chance to make it to the Met in London, and Barry “Bazza” Barnwell who is a somewhat lazy and inept sod.
He barely checks into his hotel when a body is discovered on the beach. The dead woman is Dr. Sylvia Norquist. She was soon to be engaged to a retired Colonel Graves who dabbles in the Florida real Estate market. Also on the island are the Pilkingtons, a married couple who bitterly argue when it is learned that the husband was seeing Dr. Norquist. His cancer that she cured has returned and he hasn’t told his wife and Carlos Alves. Mr. Alves’ son died of a brain stem tumor that Dr. Norquist was treating. Some said that she was incompetent in her handling of the case, but Mr. Alves was out at sea during the time of the murder. Or was he?
As the police go about investigating the case, they interview the hotel staff and Dr. Norquist’s acquaintances. They seem to be getting nowhere, and with Barnwell and Roach constantly bickering, it doesn’t help.
During a walk along the beach, the answer finally comes to Graham and he and his officers gather all the suspects together. Since the group of suspects was so small, the identity of the murderer came as no surprise, just that the motive was a little twisted. Still, it was a good and adventurous read.
This book reminds me strongly of a British television show called “Death in Paradise” about murder and mayhem on a small Caribbean island. It is a rather tongue-in-cheek police/detective show. Even the gathering of all the suspects together at the end to reveal the killer is the same as the TV show.
I wouldn’t call this book a “cozy” mystery; it is closer to a police procedural, but with a humorous slant. The bickering between the constables provides smiles now and then. The novella is both well written and plotted. We are given hints of the main characters’ backgrounds, but it doesn’t intrude on the story at all. There is quite a bit packed into this short read. It was surprisingly good. This is my first Alison Golden & Grace Dagnall novel, but it definitely won’t be my last. I am looking forward to the next in the series.
DI David Graham is newly arrived on the Island of Jersey in the little town of Gorey. He meets his new crew: Sergeant Janice Harding who seems a little too friendly, Constable Jim Roach who believes his this is his big chance to make it to the Met in London, and Barry “Bazza” Barnwell who is a somewhat lazy and inept sod.
He barely checks into his hotel when a body is discovered on the beach. The dead woman is Dr. Sylvia Norquist. She was soon to be engaged to a retired Colonel Graves who dabbles in the Florida real Estate market. Also on the island are the Pilkingtons, a married couple who bitterly argue when it is learned that the husband was seeing Dr. Norquist. His cancer that she cured has returned and he hasn’t told his wife and Carlos Alves. Mr. Alves’ son died of a brain stem tumor that Dr. Norquist was treating. Some said that she was incompetent in her handling of the case, but Mr. Alves was out at sea during the time of the murder. Or was he?
As the police go about investigating the case, they interview the hotel staff and Dr. Norquist’s acquaintances. They seem to be getting nowhere, and with Barnwell and Roach constantly bickering, it doesn’t help.
During a walk along the beach, the answer finally comes to Graham and he and his officers gather all the suspects together. Since the group of suspects was so small, the identity of the murderer came as no surprise, just that the motive was a little twisted. Still, it was a good and adventurous read.
This book reminds me strongly of a British television show called “Death in Paradise” about murder and mayhem on a small Caribbean island. It is a rather tongue-in-cheek police/detective show. Even the gathering of all the suspects together at the end to reveal the killer is the same as the TV show.
I wouldn’t call this book a “cozy” mystery; it is closer to a police procedural, but with a humorous slant. The bickering between the constables provides smiles now and then. The novella is both well written and plotted. We are given hints of the main characters’ backgrounds, but it doesn’t intrude on the story at all. There is quite a bit packed into this short read. It was surprisingly good. This is my first Alison Golden & Grace Dagnall novel, but it definitely won’t be my last. I am looking forward to the next in the series.
February 18, 2019
DI David comes to head the police in Gorey Taking him to The White Inn till he finds something permanent. On the beach a hand is showing, the rest covered with sand, a dead female. They believe it was Dr Norquist a resident at the Inn.Suitcases to be unpacked yet, and ow a murder. The quaint seashore, some quirky people on the Force, and murder, make a nice cozy mystery.
Read
June 1, 2024David Graham moves to Jersey, heads up a small town police force that is good enough at its job, and then uses his uncanny memory and detective skills to find a murderer. Meanwhile, his team starts to think of themselves as having more potential than they'd thought.
October 6, 2018
Short mystery with fluctuating points of view.
April 7, 2020
I loved this book! Detective Inspector Graham moves to a sleepy little town and five minutes in, someone discovers a freshly dead body. This is one of the best cozy mysteries I’ve ever read!
August 30, 2021
The first book in this series, The Case of the Screaming Beauty, introduces the reader to Detective Inspector David Graham. This book begins at his new post on the island, Jersey and was quite a fun read. The characters are likable and the Ms. Golden does well introducing the secondary/support characters as individuals. A delightful cozy mystery.
December 12, 2023
Easy page turner that kept me guessing! Will look for more from the author, love British Mysteries
May 12, 2018
A good mystery and a great cast of characters! There is always a surprise in the identity of the murderer.
May 26, 2017
This is a short novella/long short story mystery that takes place on the island of Jersey off the coast of France. A 50-ish, retired doctor is found dead on the beach by the man who was planning to propose to her. The new DI, just in from London, has his first case and it is a puzzler.
Well written, well plotted with decent character development. I enjoyed this book and liked the fact that I had a nice, well written story to read that wouldn't take up much of my time.
Well written, well plotted with decent character development. I enjoyed this book and liked the fact that I had a nice, well written story to read that wouldn't take up much of my time.
June 22, 2017
The Case Of The Hidden Flame is the second book in Alison Golden's Inspecter David Graham mystery series.
The book is not very long but the author still manages to deliver a challenging and entertaining mystery for the reader to solve alongside Inspector Graham and his subordinates - Sargeant Harding and Constables Roach and Barnwell.
Fans of Agatha Christie would enjoy this book as it's atmosphere and the author's writing is reminiscent of Christie's mysteries.
The book is not very long but the author still manages to deliver a challenging and entertaining mystery for the reader to solve alongside Inspector Graham and his subordinates - Sargeant Harding and Constables Roach and Barnwell.
Fans of Agatha Christie would enjoy this book as it's atmosphere and the author's writing is reminiscent of Christie's mysteries.
September 14, 2020
I enjoyed this but was left feeling increasingly stunned by the similarities in the story to an episode of one of my favourite tv programs, Death in Paradise. Aired in March 2014, Rue Morgue had the same storylines albeit different character names and set on a Caribbean island rather than one in the English Channel. Coincidence or what? I’m now intrigued to read the next book in the series.
December 29, 2015
Dreadful whodunnit
Wooden characters and woeful plot made this hard work to get through. Won't be trying any more in the series.
Wooden characters and woeful plot made this hard work to get through. Won't be trying any more in the series.
February 6, 2016
I enjoyed this book. It struck me as having a Midsomer Murders feel about it but without the huge body count. Looking forward to reading more and getting to know the characters better.
August 2, 2018
Not your typical cozy mystery. When I say that I am referring to those with a female lead character and the love triangle trope. Quite refreshing!
Graham is new to the island and he has a past filled with woe. Book 1 probably explained this. I believe over time it will come out to his new coworkers/friends on Jersey. On his first day a body is discovered and he must solve a murder with his new team.
Barnwell and Roach (I really wish Ms. Golden hadn't used Roach; brings to mind the Richard Castle Nikki Heat mysteries.) are the constables and lowest on the totem pole in the office. They do remind me of the constables in the Pirates of Penzance ("with cat like tread...") a bit comical, but also loyal and somewhat hardworking. Hardworking when their efforts are appreciated and skills are put to use.
Harding is the sergeant. She is interesting. Has more drive than the two guys out front, but her sarcasm and disdain can hold her back.
The four make a nice team. Graham takes lead on the case, but uses his team well to find clues and fit the pieces together. I was highly satisfied by the entire story. It was a quick read.
My eBook version notes 86 pages of which 75 pages are the mystery the rest provide information on prequels, the author, and a peek at the next book The Case of the Fallen Hero. I'm not fond of these sneak peeks, but may end up reading it.
Overall, I really liked this mystery, the setting, characters, and style of writing. I'll be looking out for more Inspector David Graham mysteries.
Graham is new to the island and he has a past filled with woe. Book 1 probably explained this. I believe over time it will come out to his new coworkers/friends on Jersey. On his first day a body is discovered and he must solve a murder with his new team.
Barnwell and Roach (I really wish Ms. Golden hadn't used Roach; brings to mind the Richard Castle Nikki Heat mysteries.) are the constables and lowest on the totem pole in the office. They do remind me of the constables in the Pirates of Penzance ("with cat like tread...") a bit comical, but also loyal and somewhat hardworking. Hardworking when their efforts are appreciated and skills are put to use.
Harding is the sergeant. She is interesting. Has more drive than the two guys out front, but her sarcasm and disdain can hold her back.
The four make a nice team. Graham takes lead on the case, but uses his team well to find clues and fit the pieces together. I was highly satisfied by the entire story. It was a quick read.
My eBook version notes 86 pages of which 75 pages are the mystery the rest provide information on prequels, the author, and a peek at the next book The Case of the Fallen Hero. I'm not fond of these sneak peeks, but may end up reading it.
Overall, I really liked this mystery, the setting, characters, and style of writing. I'll be looking out for more Inspector David Graham mysteries.
October 4, 2023
I loved this book. It sort of reminded me of the tv show Death in paradise or more in particular the spin off series Beyond paradise, so much so that I think I started picturing them as the characters, what fun. I loved the interactions between the characters, especially the lengths they go to impress there new boss or out do each other, I hope that continues. The story is on the short side but to be honest it didn't feel that way and I felt you got your monies worth with this investigation. I liked how it wasn't obvious what killed her and there was even some debate over it being suicide, couldn't see it myself but as a training exercise it worked. There was plenty of suspects and like the first case I had no clue who the killer was. Off to start the next book.
Detective Inspector David Graham tired of the big city has moved to Jersey for a quieter life but before he can even unpack or meet his new colleagues he is called to a murder scene. An elderly former soldier has just discovered his fiance dead and buried on the beach. As the first murder investigation on the island in years the only way to find out if his new colleagues are up to the challenge is to learn on the job. Can they dig up a murderer?
I liked the narrator. He made the story fun and enjoyable and I hope he sticks with the series.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily life this review.
Detective Inspector David Graham tired of the big city has moved to Jersey for a quieter life but before he can even unpack or meet his new colleagues he is called to a murder scene. An elderly former soldier has just discovered his fiance dead and buried on the beach. As the first murder investigation on the island in years the only way to find out if his new colleagues are up to the challenge is to learn on the job. Can they dig up a murderer?
I liked the narrator. He made the story fun and enjoyable and I hope he sticks with the series.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily life this review.
August 9, 2017
This is a terrific cozy. Although this is part of a series, and I have not read any others in the series,I had no problem reading this as a stand alone.
Inspector Graham is the new officer in the small police station on the Island of Jersey. The office is made up of Sergeant Janice Harding, Officer Barnwell and Officer Roach.
As DI Graham is checking into his hotel, a dead body is found on the beach right in front of the hotel. The body is a woman named Norquist. The person who found her is a man who planned to propose marriage to her. This is a possible murder and there has been no murder on the island for a very long time.
Before long, things become very complicated.
There are other long term guests in the hotel and several of them were familiar with the victim. And there may or may not have been motives for wanting her dead.
DI Graham begins to get his new staff to ask questions, check information and generally improve their methods of investigation. At the same time, he is investigating and thinking. He is a good and talented detective.
From what I read, later this series will explain why Graham has come to the small island of Jersey.
I liked this book very much.
Inspector Graham is the new officer in the small police station on the Island of Jersey. The office is made up of Sergeant Janice Harding, Officer Barnwell and Officer Roach.
As DI Graham is checking into his hotel, a dead body is found on the beach right in front of the hotel. The body is a woman named Norquist. The person who found her is a man who planned to propose marriage to her. This is a possible murder and there has been no murder on the island for a very long time.
Before long, things become very complicated.
There are other long term guests in the hotel and several of them were familiar with the victim. And there may or may not have been motives for wanting her dead.
DI Graham begins to get his new staff to ask questions, check information and generally improve their methods of investigation. At the same time, he is investigating and thinking. He is a good and talented detective.
From what I read, later this series will explain why Graham has come to the small island of Jersey.
I liked this book very much.
Read
March 9, 2024A quaint island resort. A murder on a quiet beach. Can a brand new inspector solve the case?
Detective Inspector David Graham has just arrived on the island of Jersey, with orders to take over the constabulary in the small resort town of Gorey. But molding this rag-tag team of misfits into a cohesive investigative unit may be a greater challenge than he bargained for…
Within minutes, Graham’s plans go awry. A local resident, former soldier Colonel Graves, makes a shocking discovery. As the military man kneels down on the beach, he is horrified to see the corpse of his soon-to-be fiancé, half-buried in the sand…
The town is appalled by this scandalous crime. Rumours swirl and the eccentric townsfolk begin to point fingers. But it falls to the brand new detective inspector to ferret out the clues and solve the case…while bringing his inexperienced team of cohorts along to assist.
The Case of the Hidden Flame is the second book in this best-selling traditional British detective mystery series with a modern twist. It packs humour and intrigue into a fiendishly clever puzzle that mystery fans will love – all accompanied by a fine cup of tea.
"Great mystery with lots of twists and surprises."
Didn't read.
Detective Inspector David Graham has just arrived on the island of Jersey, with orders to take over the constabulary in the small resort town of Gorey. But molding this rag-tag team of misfits into a cohesive investigative unit may be a greater challenge than he bargained for…
Within minutes, Graham’s plans go awry. A local resident, former soldier Colonel Graves, makes a shocking discovery. As the military man kneels down on the beach, he is horrified to see the corpse of his soon-to-be fiancé, half-buried in the sand…
The town is appalled by this scandalous crime. Rumours swirl and the eccentric townsfolk begin to point fingers. But it falls to the brand new detective inspector to ferret out the clues and solve the case…while bringing his inexperienced team of cohorts along to assist.
The Case of the Hidden Flame is the second book in this best-selling traditional British detective mystery series with a modern twist. It packs humour and intrigue into a fiendishly clever puzzle that mystery fans will love – all accompanied by a fine cup of tea.
"Great mystery with lots of twists and surprises."
Didn't read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 18, 2020
This is the true first in the series. DI Graham arrives on the island of Jersey, a new assignment, with the mission of shaping up the Gorey Constabulary. There he meets his staff: Sgt. Janice Harding who likes the looks of her handsome and single new boss; Constable Jim Roach whose primary desire is to be recognized as worthy of promotion, maybe even one day to Scotland Yard; and Constable Barnwell, a tired an weary man burying his hopes and dreams in a gin bottler.
Assigned to stay at the While House Inn temporarily, Graham finds his anticipated notion of working in a sleepy, lazy little community dashed within hours. A staunch military veteran has discovered his intended-to-be fiancée half-buried in the sand. Faced with a crew of unknown abilities, Graham focuses on his strengths as an investigator to find the truth.
Here, the author begins to flesh out the distinctive personalities, particularly Graham's. Again, the writing is masterful in its smooth transitions in viewpoint and delightful descriptions. Hercule Poirot - move over. You have company. Someone who also knows how to use his little grey cells.
Assigned to stay at the While House Inn temporarily, Graham finds his anticipated notion of working in a sleepy, lazy little community dashed within hours. A staunch military veteran has discovered his intended-to-be fiancée half-buried in the sand. Faced with a crew of unknown abilities, Graham focuses on his strengths as an investigator to find the truth.
Here, the author begins to flesh out the distinctive personalities, particularly Graham's. Again, the writing is masterful in its smooth transitions in viewpoint and delightful descriptions. Hercule Poirot - move over. You have company. Someone who also knows how to use his little grey cells.
November 8, 2019
NOT a cozy, but a leisurely police procedural, albeit lacking procedures.
2.5 stars
I wanted a quick read police procedural and chose this book, which is a novella. This is a contemporary mystery with a Christie-like atmosphere due to lack of forensics, computers, tablets, and one mention of a “cell” phone—not a mobile.
There aren’t many murder suspects, and the author conceals pertinent information needed to solve the mystery. Plus, as another reviewer said: this is book is like one of the episodes of BBC’s “Death in Paradise” series. And at the end, all the characters gather ‘round whilst the DI reveals clues and motives hereto withheld. Voila, the murderer is revealed!
I almost stopped reading on page 64 when the author had her DI say: “Arsenic leaves a smell of bitter almonds, famously . . .” In reality: famously no. “When heated in air, arsenic oxidizes to arsenic trioxide; the fumes from this reaction have an odor resembling garlic.” From https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arsenic
2.5 stars
I wanted a quick read police procedural and chose this book, which is a novella. This is a contemporary mystery with a Christie-like atmosphere due to lack of forensics, computers, tablets, and one mention of a “cell” phone—not a mobile.
There aren’t many murder suspects, and the author conceals pertinent information needed to solve the mystery. Plus, as another reviewer said: this is book is like one of the episodes of BBC’s “Death in Paradise” series. And at the end, all the characters gather ‘round whilst the DI reveals clues and motives hereto withheld. Voila, the murderer is revealed!
I almost stopped reading on page 64 when the author had her DI say: “Arsenic leaves a smell of bitter almonds, famously . . .” In reality: famously no. “When heated in air, arsenic oxidizes to arsenic trioxide; the fumes from this reaction have an odor resembling garlic.” From https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arsenic
April 8, 2025
REVIEW OF AUDIOBOOK; APRIL 7, 2025
Length: 3 hrs and 3 mins
Very disappointing. Like the first 2 books, there's only a few characters involved as revealed in the book so it's not difficult to make a correct guess because the cops don't go beyond questioning the few characters to find out more about the victim's life and relationships.
Somehow, with that scanty amount of information, Inspector Graham - the 30-something, goodlooking charmer (as described in the prequel) - is able to lead the killer into confessing all. To me it felt like a whole chunk of story was deleted from the book and all I was given was the start, the victim, then the big whodunit reveal. No real investigation, no proper police procedures. I know this is a cozy but this lack of substance is unacceptable.
I am listening to book 3 now in this bundle of 4 and hope it ends stronger. It's 5 hours long as opposed to Book 2 which was only 3 hours so, hopefully, the authors use the extra 2 hours cleverly.
Length: 3 hrs and 3 mins
Very disappointing. Like the first 2 books, there's only a few characters involved as revealed in the book so it's not difficult to make a correct guess because the cops don't go beyond questioning the few characters to find out more about the victim's life and relationships.
Somehow, with that scanty amount of information, Inspector Graham - the 30-something, goodlooking charmer (as described in the prequel) - is able to lead the killer into confessing all. To me it felt like a whole chunk of story was deleted from the book and all I was given was the start, the victim, then the big whodunit reveal. No real investigation, no proper police procedures. I know this is a cozy but this lack of substance is unacceptable.
I am listening to book 3 now in this bundle of 4 and hope it ends stronger. It's 5 hours long as opposed to Book 2 which was only 3 hours so, hopefully, the authors use the extra 2 hours cleverly.
July 6, 2017
This is a free book on Amazon . . . it's shown here as #2, but it's more like the first in a series. #1 is actually a prequel -- same lead investigator but in a completely different place.
This feels like a cozy but it's not an amateur investigator. He's a detective inspector with a fair amount of experience who, at his own request, is now stationed to the island of Jersey. It's meant to be a not-too-difficult assignment but about a minute after he arrives a murder is discovered. So he has to quickly whip into shape the 3 officers under his command and figure out what's going on.
There's humor and good character development as well as an interesting plot with a satisfying resolution. I'd started reading it a while ago and then got sidetracked . . . picked it back up yesterday mainly looking for something light and quick. It fit the bill perfectly.
This feels like a cozy but it's not an amateur investigator. He's a detective inspector with a fair amount of experience who, at his own request, is now stationed to the island of Jersey. It's meant to be a not-too-difficult assignment but about a minute after he arrives a murder is discovered. So he has to quickly whip into shape the 3 officers under his command and figure out what's going on.
There's humor and good character development as well as an interesting plot with a satisfying resolution. I'd started reading it a while ago and then got sidetracked . . . picked it back up yesterday mainly looking for something light and quick. It fit the bill perfectly.
August 24, 2017
Having suffered a grievous loss in his life, Detective Inspector Graham has taken a post in Jersey. He takes up residence at The White House Inn, where the residents are mostly affluent long-term retirees. He barely get settled and introduced to those under his command when he is called into action. A body has been reported at the Inn, buried in the sand on the beach.
I read the prequel to this book and was impressed enough to obtain the first book in the series. The book was short and well-written, but didn't skimp on content. Love the characters, especially Graham, who has a quiet, intelligent way about him that inspires those beneath him to try to live up to his expectations of them. His personality reminds me somewhat of Inspector Gamache of the Three Pines series by Louise Penny. Would definitely like to read the next in Alice Golden's series.
I read the prequel to this book and was impressed enough to obtain the first book in the series. The book was short and well-written, but didn't skimp on content. Love the characters, especially Graham, who has a quiet, intelligent way about him that inspires those beneath him to try to live up to his expectations of them. His personality reminds me somewhat of Inspector Gamache of the Three Pines series by Louise Penny. Would definitely like to read the next in Alice Golden's series.
August 9, 2018
Great Series!
I am finding I really enjoy this shorter cozy mystery series. It is a quick read, I can read this in an afternoon relaxing in my recliner or a few hours at night, snuggled up in bed. But it is all there, including intrigue. It just gets to the point.
I am also finding D.I. David Graham has quickly made it to my favorites list. He is thorough in his investigations, but he also relies on the skills and hard work of his investigative team. Tomlinson is worth his weight in gold. His experience and wit pair well with Graham. The D.I.s Sergeant and Constables, while lacking in experience, make up for it in desire. It seems Graham is aware of their shortcomings, which is why he plays to their strengths.
The Case of the Hidden Flame is a clean, quick read. I look forward to continuing the series.
I am finding I really enjoy this shorter cozy mystery series. It is a quick read, I can read this in an afternoon relaxing in my recliner or a few hours at night, snuggled up in bed. But it is all there, including intrigue. It just gets to the point.
I am also finding D.I. David Graham has quickly made it to my favorites list. He is thorough in his investigations, but he also relies on the skills and hard work of his investigative team. Tomlinson is worth his weight in gold. His experience and wit pair well with Graham. The D.I.s Sergeant and Constables, while lacking in experience, make up for it in desire. It seems Graham is aware of their shortcomings, which is why he plays to their strengths.
The Case of the Hidden Flame is a clean, quick read. I look forward to continuing the series.
August 23, 2018
DI David Graham's application for a change of scene and more leisurely lifestyle from the hustle and bustle of London was finally granted only to find himself leading a murder investigation within a few minutes just upon arrival. The author has a very down~to~earth pragmatic style of telling her story that the threads flow smoothly like the mesmerizing effect of the sun's sparkling reflections on the rippling waters of a lazy meandering shallow creek through jutting rocks and carrying fallen leaves and what~not into their inevitable destination. Well done!
P.S. ~ This maybe trivial, but I thought "lift" is the British English equivalent of "elevator" in American English and since the setting is in the English Channel and since the official language is English and I am presuming British English not American ~ hence the confusion. Not that this in anyway affected my enjoying the work.
P.S. ~ This maybe trivial, but I thought "lift" is the British English equivalent of "elevator" in American English and since the setting is in the English Channel and since the official language is English and I am presuming British English not American ~ hence the confusion. Not that this in anyway affected my enjoying the work.
December 27, 2019
New cozy mystery series from a familiar author
This is a new cozy mystery series starring Detective Inspector Graham that takes place on the Isle of Jersey in the English Channel. Although a series, each book can be read as a stand-alone. I really enjoyed the book and the characters. The writing is great too, with no typos or grammatical errors that I could find, and is quite clever. I loved how the author described a character's hair: 'He had thick, black hair that made its own decisions"! I could totally picture his hair flopping every which way! D.I. Graham is Sherlockian in his approach to solving murders, very thorough and methodical. The other 3 police in this small island are wonderful, the Sargent who flirts with the D.I., and the two constables, one who drinks too much and the other eager for a promotion. I can't wait to read another one!
This is a new cozy mystery series starring Detective Inspector Graham that takes place on the Isle of Jersey in the English Channel. Although a series, each book can be read as a stand-alone. I really enjoyed the book and the characters. The writing is great too, with no typos or grammatical errors that I could find, and is quite clever. I loved how the author described a character's hair: 'He had thick, black hair that made its own decisions"! I could totally picture his hair flopping every which way! D.I. Graham is Sherlockian in his approach to solving murders, very thorough and methodical. The other 3 police in this small island are wonderful, the Sargent who flirts with the D.I., and the two constables, one who drinks too much and the other eager for a promotion. I can't wait to read another one!
May 6, 2017
This cosy mystery is the second in the series and although I hadn't read the first, it works well as a standalone and being novella length is a quick read. The setting of Jersey and the hotel in particular really add to the book but more could have been made of the location instead of simply using it as a backdrop. The characters have great potential but could have been fleshed out more and the style is quite simple but enjoyable. It is a combination of Agatha Christie and midsummer murders and although it is contemporary there is an older feel to the story. Great if you are looking for an easy summer read. Maybe I'm missing something but I still don't see the relevance of the title to the story but that could just be me.
May 24, 2020
"You know I've been here five minutes, right?"
"And you know we haven't had a murder here since the Newall Brothers axed their parents for their inheritance money, back when you were in college?"
The Case of the Hidden Flame by Alison Golden is the second book in the Inspector David Graham Series. The book brings back a few of the characters from The Case of the Screaming Beauty, along with new people. It can be read as a standalone.
The charismatic – for me – Inspector Graham loves his morning tea and I loved his character, who literally grows on you as you read these books (I read 3 books in the series consecutively!)
Graham leaves the busy London with its dark memories and settles in the small island town of Gorey. There he is to head the small police department, known as a constabulary, and three police misfits: Harding (the serious one) and Roach and Barnwell (the funny ones), "a rag tag team of questionable commitment."
Graham has to turn the three into mystery-solving and crime-fighting officers, which paves the way for lots of humor.
As soon as he arrives on Gorey, Graham is confronted with mystery after the other. In The Case of the Hidden Flame, Graham has to deal with a nearly-crippled doctor who is found dead and buried on the shore of the White House Inn, where he is to stay.
"Mrs. Taylor worked to find balance between helping the police and carrying out much-needed rumor control, lest her guests suddenly decide to check out en masse in a fit of panic and ruin the Inn's precious summer."
Graham and his team interview many people at the Inn, while some appear to have harbored ill intentions towards the late doctor, some don't seem to be related to the case at all. Graham and his team struggle to find the culprit in an Inn, known to be a home for the elderly and retirees.
"The least welcome category of deaths for a detective [was] victims who were found alone, with little forensic evidence, no witnesses, and no immediate suspects or motives."
In The Case of the Hidden Flame, it takes some time to determine whether the "case" is a murder or accidental death. Still, I enjoyed the story. It was a bit slow at first but picked up.
To the police officers, known as constables in the novel, Detective Graham acts oddly. But he plans to teach each one of them how to handle things and make them rise from merely taking tickets and processing mini-burglaries to solving crimes.
Having read subsequent books, I've noticed that Graham is an excellent leader, knowing how to utilize and develop each of his team's skills.
Unlike The Case of the Screaming Beauty which was a bit grim, The Case of the Hidden Flame had lots more humor, making it a fun read.
"[Mrs. Taylor] was proving to be quite the store of gossip, which made her an ideal source of information in a case like this."
The Case of the Hidden Flame is a different kind of cozy mystery in the sense that it's the police who are looking into the murder, as opposed to the norm where there is an amateur sleuth.
In terms of character development, Graham is already a developed character but the sergeant and two constables are the ones who see significant growth throughout the books.
The book was divided into only seven chapters, which made the chapters quite long.
I like how Golden uses Graham and pathologist Dr. Marcus Tomlison as tools to educate both readers and the police trio.
"Unlike most police officers, or even members of the general public, Graham was aware that asphyxia was a mode of dying, not ta cause."
"And you know we haven't had a murder here since the Newall Brothers axed their parents for their inheritance money, back when you were in college?"
The Case of the Hidden Flame by Alison Golden is the second book in the Inspector David Graham Series. The book brings back a few of the characters from The Case of the Screaming Beauty, along with new people. It can be read as a standalone.
The charismatic – for me – Inspector Graham loves his morning tea and I loved his character, who literally grows on you as you read these books (I read 3 books in the series consecutively!)
Graham leaves the busy London with its dark memories and settles in the small island town of Gorey. There he is to head the small police department, known as a constabulary, and three police misfits: Harding (the serious one) and Roach and Barnwell (the funny ones), "a rag tag team of questionable commitment."
Graham has to turn the three into mystery-solving and crime-fighting officers, which paves the way for lots of humor.
As soon as he arrives on Gorey, Graham is confronted with mystery after the other. In The Case of the Hidden Flame, Graham has to deal with a nearly-crippled doctor who is found dead and buried on the shore of the White House Inn, where he is to stay.
"Mrs. Taylor worked to find balance between helping the police and carrying out much-needed rumor control, lest her guests suddenly decide to check out en masse in a fit of panic and ruin the Inn's precious summer."
Graham and his team interview many people at the Inn, while some appear to have harbored ill intentions towards the late doctor, some don't seem to be related to the case at all. Graham and his team struggle to find the culprit in an Inn, known to be a home for the elderly and retirees.
"The least welcome category of deaths for a detective [was] victims who were found alone, with little forensic evidence, no witnesses, and no immediate suspects or motives."
In The Case of the Hidden Flame, it takes some time to determine whether the "case" is a murder or accidental death. Still, I enjoyed the story. It was a bit slow at first but picked up.
To the police officers, known as constables in the novel, Detective Graham acts oddly. But he plans to teach each one of them how to handle things and make them rise from merely taking tickets and processing mini-burglaries to solving crimes.
Having read subsequent books, I've noticed that Graham is an excellent leader, knowing how to utilize and develop each of his team's skills.
Unlike The Case of the Screaming Beauty which was a bit grim, The Case of the Hidden Flame had lots more humor, making it a fun read.
"[Mrs. Taylor] was proving to be quite the store of gossip, which made her an ideal source of information in a case like this."
The Case of the Hidden Flame is a different kind of cozy mystery in the sense that it's the police who are looking into the murder, as opposed to the norm where there is an amateur sleuth.
In terms of character development, Graham is already a developed character but the sergeant and two constables are the ones who see significant growth throughout the books.
The book was divided into only seven chapters, which made the chapters quite long.
I like how Golden uses Graham and pathologist Dr. Marcus Tomlison as tools to educate both readers and the police trio.
"Unlike most police officers, or even members of the general public, Graham was aware that asphyxia was a mode of dying, not ta cause."
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