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Sukey Reynolds #3
Copycat
Miguel Rodriguez is a very discerning art thief -- and he is as particular about his women as he is about his art. But when he discovers that Pepita, his mysterious new beloved, is an undercover policewoman with an eye on his plans for the biggest theft of his career, his fury at the woman is boundless. What neither Miguel nor the policewoman know is that Pepita has a perfect double, who is now in terrible danger -- and that double is Sukey Reynolds.
352 pages, Hardcover
First published July 1, 1999
384 people are currently reading
162 people want to read
About the author
Betty Rowlands
47 books143 followersBetty Rowlands is an member of the Crime Writers' Association and appears on panels at writers' conferences.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
June 5, 2019
A series of break-ins gone wrong.
Valuable objects stolen.
A case of mistaken identity.
A disappearance.
Dead bodies piling up.
Who is behind the robberies? The police think they know his identity, but what if they are wrong? What if things aren’t as they seem?
Death at Beacon Cottage is yet another enjoyable read, with solid and likeable characters.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
Valuable objects stolen.
A case of mistaken identity.
A disappearance.
Dead bodies piling up.
Who is behind the robberies? The police think they know his identity, but what if they are wrong? What if things aren’t as they seem?
Death at Beacon Cottage is yet another enjoyable read, with solid and likeable characters.
Thanks to the author, Bookouture and the NetGalley for providing me with a copy.
June 3, 2019
Previously published as Copycat in 1999, Death at Beacon Cottage is the third book to feature police photographer and SOCO Sukey Reynolds. The calm and serenity of the Cotswolds is broken by a bunch of daring break-ins resulting in the theft of many valuable artworks. The police believe they have captured the culprit, but whilst in custody, the possible thief apparently recognises Sukey and tries to communicate with her much to the confusion of both her and the rest of the police that are present. Not only does Sukey not recognise the person in custody but she has just come face to face with her doppelganger. From that moment on Sukey feels she has a stalker and when bodies start dropping left, right and centre everyone is mystified. Can they catch this cruel killer before he kills again?
I enjoyed this instalment immensely as the stakes are a lot higher than in previous books due to the involvement of a brutal international criminal gang. Also, Sukey is front and centre rather than just being on the periphery as in past episodes. It is a well written, thrilling and very compelling read and fraught with danger for Sukey and her close-knit family. It's a complex and multi-layered plot as I have come to expect from Ms Rowland's and the pace is quick and keeps you turning the pages. Each instalment can be read independently without issue, and whilst I was totally engrossed in the interesting goings-on I did find the conclusion a little rushed. That said, it certainly wasn't a major problem for me as the rest of the book is perfect and makes for compulsive reading. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
I enjoyed this instalment immensely as the stakes are a lot higher than in previous books due to the involvement of a brutal international criminal gang. Also, Sukey is front and centre rather than just being on the periphery as in past episodes. It is a well written, thrilling and very compelling read and fraught with danger for Sukey and her close-knit family. It's a complex and multi-layered plot as I have come to expect from Ms Rowland's and the pace is quick and keeps you turning the pages. Each instalment can be read independently without issue, and whilst I was totally engrossed in the interesting goings-on I did find the conclusion a little rushed. That said, it certainly wasn't a major problem for me as the rest of the book is perfect and makes for compulsive reading. Many thanks to Bookouture for an ARC.
May 9, 2019
Last month, I accepted an offer of advance copies of two books featuring Susan "Sukey" Reynolds, a civilian scene-of-crime officer who works with the local police department. Death at Dearly Manor," which I read, is the second in a fairly lengthy series and this is the third). Despite reservations about both being so-called cozy mysteries, I thoroughly enjoyed the previous book and was eager to start this one.
It's also enjoyable, though not quite as much as its predecessor. Mostly, I think, the plot just wasn't quite as interesting to me personally, and the cast of characters was a little harder to keep straight. On the other hand, I didn't lose a whit of enthusiasm for Sukey (nor her police colleague and significant other, Jim Castle); if I can get my hands on other books in the series, I fully intend to read them. I love that while Sukey gets deeply involved in ongoing investigations, unlike most cozy heroines, she actually listens to what others tell her and doesn't go off the deep end on her own.
This one begins as Sukey is called to a manor house at which there's been a break-in. It is, it appears, one of several such art-and-valuables burglaries in the Cotswolds. Better still, the police reel in a suspect - a man Sukey has never laid eyes on before - but when he sees Sukey, he looks shaken and calls her by a different name. Confusion abounds, and when the suspect turns up missing, the safety of Sukey (and by extension, that of her son Fergus, who lives with her) is called into question. That fear escalates when other bodies turn up, all murdered in the same fashion.
Is Sukey next on the list? Can Jim and his department cohorts get to the bottom of things before something dreadful happens to her? Needless to say, since there are several more books in the series, readers can safely assume that Sukey makes it out alive. But as for the details, you'll just have to read it for yourself. Excellent series!
It's also enjoyable, though not quite as much as its predecessor. Mostly, I think, the plot just wasn't quite as interesting to me personally, and the cast of characters was a little harder to keep straight. On the other hand, I didn't lose a whit of enthusiasm for Sukey (nor her police colleague and significant other, Jim Castle); if I can get my hands on other books in the series, I fully intend to read them. I love that while Sukey gets deeply involved in ongoing investigations, unlike most cozy heroines, she actually listens to what others tell her and doesn't go off the deep end on her own.
This one begins as Sukey is called to a manor house at which there's been a break-in. It is, it appears, one of several such art-and-valuables burglaries in the Cotswolds. Better still, the police reel in a suspect - a man Sukey has never laid eyes on before - but when he sees Sukey, he looks shaken and calls her by a different name. Confusion abounds, and when the suspect turns up missing, the safety of Sukey (and by extension, that of her son Fergus, who lives with her) is called into question. That fear escalates when other bodies turn up, all murdered in the same fashion.
Is Sukey next on the list? Can Jim and his department cohorts get to the bottom of things before something dreadful happens to her? Needless to say, since there are several more books in the series, readers can safely assume that Sukey makes it out alive. But as for the details, you'll just have to read it for yourself. Excellent series!
June 4, 2019
Sukey Reynolds wanted to be a detective but then she married and spent some years raising her son. Now she works as a Scene of Crimes Officer for the local police and keeps her hand in the force, especially since she's dating DI Jim Castle. When she's called to the scene of a recent burglary, she gets caught up in the investigation of a series of art thefts that have also led to murder. The complicated case gets personal when one of the suspects thinks he knows who she is and calls her by the name, Pepita. NO SPOILERS.
I really enjoy this cozy mystery series and have read all 3 so far. I like the character of Sukey Reynolds -- she's a great mom and a smart woman who has the luxury of getting involved in criminal investigations through her job and via her love interest. Sometimes she's in danger but not usually because she does something stupid like many other female detectives who go off half-cocked. She cooks, takes great care of her 16-year-old son as a single mom, and is a very understanding girlfriend. I'm eager to see what she does next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
I really enjoy this cozy mystery series and have read all 3 so far. I like the character of Sukey Reynolds -- she's a great mom and a smart woman who has the luxury of getting involved in criminal investigations through her job and via her love interest. Sometimes she's in danger but not usually because she does something stupid like many other female detectives who go off half-cocked. She cooks, takes great care of her 16-year-old son as a single mom, and is a very understanding girlfriend. I'm eager to see what she does next!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the e-book ARC to read and review.
May 4, 2019
Scene of Crime officer Sukey Reynolds is looking forward to a quiet weekend gardening at home, when she gets a call that there has been a break-in at a local manor house. Once she begins to gather evidence, Sukey realises that this is the latest in a spate of well-crafted burglaries in the Cotswolds. Someone is targeting expensive houses with valuable art collections.
A person of interest arrives at the police to give his finger prints & whilst there he suddenly catches a glimpse of Sukey, turns deathly pale and calls out to her, calling her Pepita. Sukey is sure she has never met this man before. The police are baffled by a spate of local murders. With the body count rising, and the police unsure of where to turn, is Sukey herself a clue in this strange case?
This is the third book in the series, it could easily be read on its own. Another well written book with well portrayed characters. The pace is good & takes us outside of Gloucestershire to South America, Sukey of course is in the thick of it & helps DI Castle as his sounding board over home cooked meals helped by the lovely Fergus. Whilst I was once again engrossed in the book I found the ending to be a little rushed, I also felt very sorry for Nina & Roddy
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
A person of interest arrives at the police to give his finger prints & whilst there he suddenly catches a glimpse of Sukey, turns deathly pale and calls out to her, calling her Pepita. Sukey is sure she has never met this man before. The police are baffled by a spate of local murders. With the body count rising, and the police unsure of where to turn, is Sukey herself a clue in this strange case?
This is the third book in the series, it could easily be read on its own. Another well written book with well portrayed characters. The pace is good & takes us outside of Gloucestershire to South America, Sukey of course is in the thick of it & helps DI Castle as his sounding board over home cooked meals helped by the lovely Fergus. Whilst I was once again engrossed in the book I found the ending to be a little rushed, I also felt very sorry for Nina & Roddy
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
May 13, 2022
I finished part two of this series and I enjoyed it so much, I started the next book straight away.
Sukey is a SOCO and they do very important jobs. Trying to find the tiniest clue in order to uncover the culprits is the first step, but I don’t have the slightest doubt she would make a very good detective too. Both professions require a good memory and you have to pick up every piece of the puzzle and Sukey is always on the ball for sure.
I guess we all know Robin Hood. In my opinion our burglar might be one of his descendants who forgot part of the story along the way 😊. He steals from the wealthy and does not want to hurt anybody. The only thing he forgets is to give to the poor. He only lines his pockets and those of even wealthier people. Maybe he should reread the story. 😉
Is it possible to feel sympathy for a not so good person? Yes, it is because he does realise what he is doing is not kosher, but when he realises who he does it for and what is at stake he feels even worse and he makes a admirable decision.
Sukey, who normally does not have to deal with killers directly, now feels herself very much in the middle of the action. Thank God for attentive civilians, right?
This is not a good book. It is a great book. I loved it. 5 stars
Thank you
Sukey is a SOCO and they do very important jobs. Trying to find the tiniest clue in order to uncover the culprits is the first step, but I don’t have the slightest doubt she would make a very good detective too. Both professions require a good memory and you have to pick up every piece of the puzzle and Sukey is always on the ball for sure.
I guess we all know Robin Hood. In my opinion our burglar might be one of his descendants who forgot part of the story along the way 😊. He steals from the wealthy and does not want to hurt anybody. The only thing he forgets is to give to the poor. He only lines his pockets and those of even wealthier people. Maybe he should reread the story. 😉
Is it possible to feel sympathy for a not so good person? Yes, it is because he does realise what he is doing is not kosher, but when he realises who he does it for and what is at stake he feels even worse and he makes a admirable decision.
Sukey, who normally does not have to deal with killers directly, now feels herself very much in the middle of the action. Thank God for attentive civilians, right?
This is not a good book. It is a great book. I loved it. 5 stars
Thank you
June 4, 2019
As usual in the series, a very well written police procedural with an excellent plot and fantastic characters. This book has a lot of twists, and the pace is very good.
October 1, 2019
Its a formulaic but easy read
May 11, 2019
After the final Bettty Rowlands novel featuring Melissa Craig I wondered what the chances were of finding another cosy crime series I would enjoy as much. I needn't have worried however, as Sukey Reynolds is a fantastic character whose adventures slot alongside those in the first set of books brilliantly.
The bodies definitely stack up this time as a spate of robberies turn deadly and although Sukey finds danger at the heart of the investigation it isn't her fault at all this time! In many ways this wasn't a whodunnit where the reader is wanting to get to the culprit first because we know who most of the perpetrators are from the start. Instead we get to decipher everything alongside Sukey, Jim Castle and the rest of the local police force as well as enjoying their occasional downtime. There are surprises, of course, and the odd red herring to confuse at times and, to me at least, the final chapter was totally unexpected.
This is the third in this series which means all the main characters are as familiar and eagerly anticipated as those in the previous canon but totally different as well. Everyone, from the minor to major contributors, are drawn with an attention to detail which I have come to expect from this author and it is obvious she sees people and locations very clearly. As much as I love a psychological thriller these books are much closer to my own world and every page is a pleasure. Immediately I am immersed in Sukey's world and look forward to each re-release with anticipation of more enjoyment to come.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to lovers of cosy crime and good storytelling everywhere.
The bodies definitely stack up this time as a spate of robberies turn deadly and although Sukey finds danger at the heart of the investigation it isn't her fault at all this time! In many ways this wasn't a whodunnit where the reader is wanting to get to the culprit first because we know who most of the perpetrators are from the start. Instead we get to decipher everything alongside Sukey, Jim Castle and the rest of the local police force as well as enjoying their occasional downtime. There are surprises, of course, and the odd red herring to confuse at times and, to me at least, the final chapter was totally unexpected.
This is the third in this series which means all the main characters are as familiar and eagerly anticipated as those in the previous canon but totally different as well. Everyone, from the minor to major contributors, are drawn with an attention to detail which I have come to expect from this author and it is obvious she sees people and locations very clearly. As much as I love a psychological thriller these books are much closer to my own world and every page is a pleasure. Immediately I am immersed in Sukey's world and look forward to each re-release with anticipation of more enjoyment to come.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers in exchange for an unbiased review and would recommend it to lovers of cosy crime and good storytelling everywhere.
August 23, 2019
Sukey Reynolds, a civil scene of crime photographer who is working for the police,is called to Bussell Manor to investigate a break in and the theft of several expensive pieces of art. Apparently burglaries in expensive,"arty "houses are a bit of an epidemic in the Cotswolds. The main suspect however seems to have disappeared from the face of the earth while his two partners in crime are found murdered. And then there is also the case of mistaken identity which puts Sukey's life in danger, This is a cross between a "cosy"and a classic mystery and it works up to a point. But then international criminal gangs,dark mafiosi style characters,hitmen.... make their appearance and it loses some of its charm and credibility (e.g. DI Jim Castle,Sukey's boyfriend freely discusses the case with Sukey(a civilian)in front of her son Fergus,there is somewhere a Miami Vice environment ...). It didn't feel right. I have another Sukey Reynolds book on my TBR list and perhaps there is a little bit less incongruence...
April 30, 2019
4 stars
A break-in and the theft of valuable works of art open this the latest in the Sukey Reynolds series. She is a police photographer. This is not an isolated burglary. Several expensive homes have been burglarized with similar items stolen. State of the art secuity systems have been bypassed.
Of course Sukey is drawn into the case. Her boyfriend DI Castle believes he knows who is responsible. Her son Fergus (Gus) is fascinated by his mother's latest foray into crime.
When Sukey was leaving the station one day, a man she does not know is very startled to see her. Sukey shrugs it off. But the encounter sets in motion a series of events that ultimately puts Sukey's life in danger.
This book is well written with Betty Rowlands' trademark multi-layered plottng. It is a fast read and enjoyable.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this delightful book for me to read, enjoy and review.
A break-in and the theft of valuable works of art open this the latest in the Sukey Reynolds series. She is a police photographer. This is not an isolated burglary. Several expensive homes have been burglarized with similar items stolen. State of the art secuity systems have been bypassed.
Of course Sukey is drawn into the case. Her boyfriend DI Castle believes he knows who is responsible. Her son Fergus (Gus) is fascinated by his mother's latest foray into crime.
When Sukey was leaving the station one day, a man she does not know is very startled to see her. Sukey shrugs it off. But the encounter sets in motion a series of events that ultimately puts Sukey's life in danger.
This book is well written with Betty Rowlands' trademark multi-layered plottng. It is a fast read and enjoyable.
I want to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for forwarding to me a copy of this delightful book for me to read, enjoy and review.
May 11, 2019
This third book in the Sukey Reynolds series is a little different from the first two. Yes, there's a crime and a murder or two that Sukey finds herself interested in, but there isn't a mystery as such to solve.
Sukey is again doing her job as SOCO when she finds herself under threat from a violent gang of criminals. She looks just like an undercover officer, who has been getting close to one of the gang. When a robbery doesn't quite go to plan, people start getting bumped off left right and centre and Sukey is spotted by one of the gang.
Although this book isn't a mystery in the usual sense, I still really enjoyed it. Sukey, her son Gus and boyfriend Jim are becoming characters that I know well and reading a crime story that involves the three of them is always interesting. I think the fact that this was a little different was perhaps a little more believable too, even someone who works for the police as Sukey does isn't always going to find themselves investigating a murder directly.
There was at least one occasion when the police seemed to think that the danger had passed when I'm not entirely sure that they would have been so quick to assume that in reality. that didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book. I'll certainly be looking for book four in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Sukey is again doing her job as SOCO when she finds herself under threat from a violent gang of criminals. She looks just like an undercover officer, who has been getting close to one of the gang. When a robbery doesn't quite go to plan, people start getting bumped off left right and centre and Sukey is spotted by one of the gang.
Although this book isn't a mystery in the usual sense, I still really enjoyed it. Sukey, her son Gus and boyfriend Jim are becoming characters that I know well and reading a crime story that involves the three of them is always interesting. I think the fact that this was a little different was perhaps a little more believable too, even someone who works for the police as Sukey does isn't always going to find themselves investigating a murder directly.
There was at least one occasion when the police seemed to think that the danger had passed when I'm not entirely sure that they would have been so quick to assume that in reality. that didn't detract from my enjoyment of the book. I'll certainly be looking for book four in this series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 6, 2019
This book was previously published as Copycat in 1999, Death at Beacon Cottage is the third book in the series and can be read as a stand alone. The author does a excellent job of introducing the setting, protagonist and charcters for every reader to easily understand
Sukey Reynolds is the protagonist / police photographer in the charming setting of the Cotswold's. . A series of break-ins shock the small community along with the theft of valuable artworks. The police believe they have captured the thief and have him in custody. He seems to know Sukey and tries to talk with her even though she does not know him.
Murders soon occur and the police are stymied. Sukey feels that someone following her is involved. The pol;ice are challenged to catch the suspect before she comes to harm and soon learn a gang is involved.
This was a exciting installment and kept me guessing as to the conclusion throughout. It has a multi-layered plot that was pleasing to read until conclusion.
I am a fan of the series and wish it was continuing. Sukey is a savvy protagonist and I enjoy the setting and exciting case the author created here Very well done ! Thank you for the ARC that does not influence my review. This is as always a exceptionally well crafted mystery and I highly recommend the entire series.
Sukey Reynolds is the protagonist / police photographer in the charming setting of the Cotswold's. . A series of break-ins shock the small community along with the theft of valuable artworks. The police believe they have captured the thief and have him in custody. He seems to know Sukey and tries to talk with her even though she does not know him.
Murders soon occur and the police are stymied. Sukey feels that someone following her is involved. The pol;ice are challenged to catch the suspect before she comes to harm and soon learn a gang is involved.
This was a exciting installment and kept me guessing as to the conclusion throughout. It has a multi-layered plot that was pleasing to read until conclusion.
I am a fan of the series and wish it was continuing. Sukey is a savvy protagonist and I enjoy the setting and exciting case the author created here Very well done ! Thank you for the ARC that does not influence my review. This is as always a exceptionally well crafted mystery and I highly recommend the entire series.
July 19, 2019
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
This is the first book of this series that I read and I have to say that I have enjoyed. So much so I am going to go back and read the others as well as the ones that follow. Sukey Reynolds (love the name) always wanted to be a detective. However, she got married and had her son. Now she works as a Crime Scene Photographer. It's not the same as being a detective but i's not bad. When she's called to the scene of a recent burglary, she ends up caught in the investigation of a series of art thefts that led to murder. The case gets personal when one of the suspects thinks he knows who she is.
I really enjoyed Sukey. She is a great mother to her son Fergus (Gus) who I also loved as a character. She also is smart and is involved crime investigations through not only her job but her boyfriend. She is in danger sometimes but she doesn't do anything crazy or stupid like many of the other female detectives I have read.
This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace
This is the first book of this series that I read and I have to say that I have enjoyed. So much so I am going to go back and read the others as well as the ones that follow. Sukey Reynolds (love the name) always wanted to be a detective. However, she got married and had her son. Now she works as a Crime Scene Photographer. It's not the same as being a detective but i's not bad. When she's called to the scene of a recent burglary, she ends up caught in the investigation of a series of art thefts that led to murder. The case gets personal when one of the suspects thinks he knows who she is.
I really enjoyed Sukey. She is a great mother to her son Fergus (Gus) who I also loved as a character. She also is smart and is involved crime investigations through not only her job but her boyfriend. She is in danger sometimes but she doesn't do anything crazy or stupid like many of the other female detectives I have read.
This review was originally posted on A Lucky Grace
May 7, 2019
Sukey Reynolds and the gang are back. As a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) Sukey collects evidence from crime scenes as a civilian employee and gathers evidence for a large targeted burglary that scored some very valuable pieces. When one of the suspects is at the police station, he sees Sukey and mistakes her for another woman, whom he loves. While it is a mistaken identify, the other woman, known as Pepita, actually was an undercover police officer and her cover is blown, but it is Sukey who becomes the target of the others involved in the crime.
While Sukey is in danger while the police work to solve what seems to be part of a much larger and devious crime, her boyfriend DI Jim Castle begs her to go into hiding. But when the crime ring finds Sukey, she agrees to help the police flash them out…and comes face to face with her doppelgänger who agrees to protect Sukey while they play cat and mouse.
I have read all three books in this series and each one is solid and keeps me turning the pages. I can’t put them down and look forward to the next one in the series. Who knew I’d love English cozies so much!
While Sukey is in danger while the police work to solve what seems to be part of a much larger and devious crime, her boyfriend DI Jim Castle begs her to go into hiding. But when the crime ring finds Sukey, she agrees to help the police flash them out…and comes face to face with her doppelgänger who agrees to protect Sukey while they play cat and mouse.
I have read all three books in this series and each one is solid and keeps me turning the pages. I can’t put them down and look forward to the next one in the series. Who knew I’d love English cozies so much!
June 19, 2019
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was another fabulous visit with Sukey Reynolds, her son Fergus, DI Jim Castle and the other characters that we have come to know and love in the series. What makes this series incredibly enjoyable is the fact that it is very true to life police procedural. Sukey works as a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) and collects evidence in cases around the Cotswalds. Only in this case, she might be part of the investigation. After a strong of burglaries, DI Castle and his team know who the culprit is and they have him at the police station where he spots Sukey. It's a case of mistaken identity - Sukey is definitely not the woman known as Pepita, but it puts Sukey in a very dangerous position. DI Castle who also doubles as Sukey's love interest in the books wants her to go into hiding.
Sukey has never been in this much danger as she is in this page turner. It was as it always is with Ms. Rowlands books very difficult to put down. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series as I feel we will get to know the characters even better.
This was another fabulous visit with Sukey Reynolds, her son Fergus, DI Jim Castle and the other characters that we have come to know and love in the series. What makes this series incredibly enjoyable is the fact that it is very true to life police procedural. Sukey works as a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) and collects evidence in cases around the Cotswalds. Only in this case, she might be part of the investigation. After a strong of burglaries, DI Castle and his team know who the culprit is and they have him at the police station where he spots Sukey. It's a case of mistaken identity - Sukey is definitely not the woman known as Pepita, but it puts Sukey in a very dangerous position. DI Castle who also doubles as Sukey's love interest in the books wants her to go into hiding.
Sukey has never been in this much danger as she is in this page turner. It was as it always is with Ms. Rowlands books very difficult to put down. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series as I feel we will get to know the characters even better.
June 16, 2019
I received a free copy for an honest review from Netgalley.
This is the third book in the series; an updated and renamed version previously published as ‘Copycat.’ Not only has our plucky heroine caught a juicy case, she’s also a near double for another police agent in a related undercover operation. Rather distressing, yes? This time, she uncovers the clues and has to race an assassin to the final points of the story.
I like that this time, the storyline has deviated as what I see as becoming a general formula for these novels. I think if it didn’t have the other agent, that would have bothered me more, as serial crime novels are fun to read, but there’s a really big trap for them starting to seem eerily similar. The fact that she’s still showing as a multidimensional character and that her personal life doesn’t just get used to make tension is nice; she still feels like a real person, and that things in her life still make her feel real.
This was a fun, satisfying book overall, and though I’m looking forward to book 4, I really hope it’s still new and different.
This is the third book in the series; an updated and renamed version previously published as ‘Copycat.’ Not only has our plucky heroine caught a juicy case, she’s also a near double for another police agent in a related undercover operation. Rather distressing, yes? This time, she uncovers the clues and has to race an assassin to the final points of the story.
I like that this time, the storyline has deviated as what I see as becoming a general formula for these novels. I think if it didn’t have the other agent, that would have bothered me more, as serial crime novels are fun to read, but there’s a really big trap for them starting to seem eerily similar. The fact that she’s still showing as a multidimensional character and that her personal life doesn’t just get used to make tension is nice; she still feels like a real person, and that things in her life still make her feel real.
This was a fun, satisfying book overall, and though I’m looking forward to book 4, I really hope it’s still new and different.
May 6, 2019
Death at Beacon cottage
The 3rd in the series featuring police scene of crime officer Sukey Reynolds. There have been a rash of thefts of valuable objects and the police have a suspect, Miguel “Roddy” Rodriguez, but no evidence on him. A policewomen, Nina has been assigned to develop a relationship with the prime suspect in order to gather information that will lead to his arrest. In a most unprofessional manner, the policewoman and her suspect fall in love with each other. Nina has an uncanny resemblance to Sukey, which puts Sukey’s life in danger as Roddy’s accomplices want her dead.
Another good story with less emphasis on the location and more on the characters.
Thank you to netgalley and Bookouture for an electronic arc. I recommend this series.
The 3rd in the series featuring police scene of crime officer Sukey Reynolds. There have been a rash of thefts of valuable objects and the police have a suspect, Miguel “Roddy” Rodriguez, but no evidence on him. A policewomen, Nina has been assigned to develop a relationship with the prime suspect in order to gather information that will lead to his arrest. In a most unprofessional manner, the policewoman and her suspect fall in love with each other. Nina has an uncanny resemblance to Sukey, which puts Sukey’s life in danger as Roddy’s accomplices want her dead.
Another good story with less emphasis on the location and more on the characters.
Thank you to netgalley and Bookouture for an electronic arc. I recommend this series.
June 4, 2019
I missed out on the second book in the Sukey Reynolds series, but no matter, this third book reads well as a standalone and is an enjoyable read.
Sukey comes to the fore as the main protagonist in this story. Art thefts and murder spoil the idyllic Cotswold’s setting, and Sukey becomes an integral part of the mystery when a suspect thinks she is someone else. This leads Sukey and her family into the direct line of fire and makes this an exciting story.
Again cozy mystery and police procedural are fused together to produce an intriguing, well-characterised story, set in the late nineties. The retro setting adds to the story’s ambience.
Looking forward to more adventures in Book 4.
I received a copy of this book from bookouture via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
May 28, 2019
I am really enjoying this cozy series featuring Sukey Reynolds, a mom and police photographer. This time, she is put in danger through a case of mistaken identity. I am glad Sukey is finally in the middle of events, since she is the title character. Although if it happened in real life I would be highly concerned, I also really enjoy her involving her son in the sorting through of information. It helps highlight the solid, though somewhat unrealistic, relationship they have. I'm looking forward to continuing my way through the series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of the book. This review is my own opinion.
August 11, 2020
Death at Beacon Cottage is the 3rd in Betty Rowlands’ series about Police photographer Sukey Reynolds. Called in to photograph the crime scene at a beautiful cottage in the Cotswolds following the latest in a spate of well planned burglaries, Sukey is pleased when the police arrest a suspect fairly quickly. However when the suspect catches sight of Sukey and calls out to her, the plot thickens, Sukey has never seen the man in her life so is this some sort of scam or does Sukey have a double?
As usual Betty Rowlands has written a great cosy mystery perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Simon Brett and M.C. Beaton.
As usual Betty Rowlands has written a great cosy mystery perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Simon Brett and M.C. Beaton.
May 10, 2019
A brilliant entry specialist who is also a wine distributor, his associates who remove the targeted items, the only woman he has come to love but turns out to be police, an opportunistic set of burglars, and an international crime lord drive the action. On the other side is the law including civilian Scenes Of Crime Officer Sukey Reynolds who is a ringer for the other woman. Let the body count begin. This tale is very convoluted and the tension rises with each new body. Excellent!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you!
May 16, 2019
Another Exciting Cozy Mystery
I love this series! Like the others, this book is full of exciting twists, serious danger, and unexpected findings. The plot is interesting and very well executed. This was a difficult book to put down and I wanted to jump to the next book in the series immediately. The setting and characters are great. The reader is given enough information, yet treated like they have a brain and don't need to know all the infinitesimal details. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
I love this series! Like the others, this book is full of exciting twists, serious danger, and unexpected findings. The plot is interesting and very well executed. This was a difficult book to put down and I wanted to jump to the next book in the series immediately. The setting and characters are great. The reader is given enough information, yet treated like they have a brain and don't need to know all the infinitesimal details. I received this ARC book for free from Net Galley and this is my honest review.
June 10, 2019
Death at Beacon Cottage by Betty it's the third book in the Sukey Reynolds series and it can be read as a stand alone book as well.
This book is a little bit different from the first two. But, You got it...........there's a crime and a murder or two. Sukey Reynolds is a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) and finds herself interested in the crimes but there isn't a mystery as such to solve.
These books are a cosy quick read for a rainy day or a read for your holidays.
Highly recommend these books.
Big Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This book is a little bit different from the first two. But, You got it...........there's a crime and a murder or two. Sukey Reynolds is a Scene of Crime Officer (SOCO) and finds herself interested in the crimes but there isn't a mystery as such to solve.
These books are a cosy quick read for a rainy day or a read for your holidays.
Highly recommend these books.
Big Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley in return for an honest review.
May 11, 2019
Each book in this series is better than the previous and this one was no exception.
I liked the cast of characters, it was great to meet them again, the plot and the mystery.
I look forward to reading other books in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
I liked the cast of characters, it was great to meet them again, the plot and the mystery.
I look forward to reading other books in this series.
Highly recommended!
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
January 2, 2020
I started this book as soon as I finished book 2 and yet again it was a great read. Sukey seems to have a knack for finding herself in the thick of things, walking into danger without even thinking about it. This series keeps drawing me deeper into her life and I can’t wait to see how she progresses.
April 29, 2025
Seekord ei olnud minu jaoks loos vajalikku vunki, aga läbi loetud ta sai.
Hm, no hakkab vaikselt ilmet looma nagu inglise kriminaallood maakondades: ei midagi väga hullu, väiksed mahakoksamised, röövimised jms. Lisaks armulugu peategelaste vahel.
Eks näis, kas Sukey järgmine lugu ma silmade ette jõuab.
Hm, no hakkab vaikselt ilmet looma nagu inglise kriminaallood maakondades: ei midagi väga hullu, väiksed mahakoksamised, röövimised jms. Lisaks armulugu peategelaste vahel.
Eks näis, kas Sukey järgmine lugu ma silmade ette jõuab.
May 27, 2019
This was an interesting entry in Betty Rowlands' Sukey Reynolds mystery series involving international criminals. As is the case with previous books in this series, reoccuring characters and a great plot make for good read.
June 8, 2019
Complicated crimes.
Nothing is easy and forthright in this mystery which starts with a “simple” burglary and ends all over the globe, including with Sukey coming face-to-face with her own doppelgänger. Gripping mystery with so many twists and turns.
Nothing is easy and forthright in this mystery which starts with a “simple” burglary and ends all over the globe, including with Sukey coming face-to-face with her own doppelgänger. Gripping mystery with so many twists and turns.
July 10, 2019
Another great Story
Another great story in the Suki series and I feel that they just keep getting better. Good strong characters and plots that have plenty of twists and turns.Looking forward to the next.
Another great story in the Suki series and I feel that they just keep getting better. Good strong characters and plots that have plenty of twists and turns.Looking forward to the next.
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