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League of Literary Ladies #1
Mayhem at the Orient Express
At a local Chinese restaurant, it's the owner who gets taken out...
Most folks aren't forced by court order to attend a library-book discussion group, but that’s just what happens to B and B proprietor and ex-Manhattanite Bea Cartwright, hippy cat lover Chandra Morrisey, and winery owner Kate Wilder after a small-town magistrate has had enough of their squabbling. South Bass, an island on Lake Erie, is home to an idyllic summer resort, but these three ladies keep disturbing the peace.
The initial book choice is Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, and that sets their mouths to watering. The Orient Express is the island’s newest Chinese restaurant. They might not agree about much, but the ladies all love the orange chicken on the menu. But their meal is spoiled when the restaurant’s owner, Peter Chan, has the bad fortune of getting murdered. Now, with Christie as their inspiration, the League of Literary Ladies has a real mystery to solve…if they can somehow catch a killer without killing each other first.
Most folks aren't forced by court order to attend a library-book discussion group, but that’s just what happens to B and B proprietor and ex-Manhattanite Bea Cartwright, hippy cat lover Chandra Morrisey, and winery owner Kate Wilder after a small-town magistrate has had enough of their squabbling. South Bass, an island on Lake Erie, is home to an idyllic summer resort, but these three ladies keep disturbing the peace.
The initial book choice is Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express, and that sets their mouths to watering. The Orient Express is the island’s newest Chinese restaurant. They might not agree about much, but the ladies all love the orange chicken on the menu. But their meal is spoiled when the restaurant’s owner, Peter Chan, has the bad fortune of getting murdered. Now, with Christie as their inspiration, the League of Literary Ladies has a real mystery to solve…if they can somehow catch a killer without killing each other first.
282 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 4, 2013
166 people are currently reading
2704 people want to read
About the author
Kylie Logan
31 books445 followersAlso writes as Miranda Bliss, Casey Daniels, Zoe Daniels, Connie Deka, Mimi Granger, Anastasia Hastings, Connie Lane, Connie Laux, Constance Laux, Lucy Ness.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 346 reviews
July 31, 2017
Mayhem at the Orient Express was a good start to the League of Literary Ladies #mystery series. I stumbled upon this through a Goodreads recommendation based on the other cozy serial mysteries that I often read. I certainly wasn't disappointed but I also wasn't amazed by the debut.
I eventually began liking the main characters, the setting and the overall style. From this first in series, it appears there will be 4 leading female characters -- perhaps 1 lead and 3 supporting female characters may be more appropriate. Kate and Bea were a little too similar for me, at least in their attitude and dialogue but I suspect over time they will get more distinct. Chandra brings the comedy and levity to keep the wheels turning, but it's the addition of Luella as the one who rounds out the group who makes them seem more like a family. The 4 come together in an unusual way which I'm not sure I am too fond of, but it eventually works enough to get the relationships started or on a different course depending on how much credence you give to the squabbling at the beginning of the story.
I'm hopeful that if this will be called the League of Literary Ladies, their interest in books will become more apparent. Chandra's preference to see the film versions rather than read is cute, but if you are going to call them the League of Literary Ladies, I think they will need to be more literate!
I greatly appreciate the story's narration or point of view coming from Bea who is the most logical on most occasions. I'm very fond of the author dropping in a little sarcasm directly calling out that there are readers or an audience to the book's hi-jinks. It only appears a few times, just enough to make you chuckle, but not enough to pull you out of or away from the actual story.
The B&B backdrop is strong. It will bring easy snooping, lots of new characters, and reasons why the protagonists are so often close to murders and mysteries. The most fascinating mystery is actually what brought Bea to this island from New York. In the first book we learn a few of her secrets and personal tragedies, but there are definitely strong direct and indirect hints at even more things we really need to know about her.
The relationships with the male characters throughout the story are slow to start but have potential. I'm not sure they are too critical to the story when you have 4 females already playing off one another in the suspense and clue-tracking escapades. It'll probably serve up good fodder for backdrop in helping the protagonists have more personality and feel more connected to the reader.
I'll give book 2 a chance to see where it's going... curious what others thought?
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by.
I eventually began liking the main characters, the setting and the overall style. From this first in series, it appears there will be 4 leading female characters -- perhaps 1 lead and 3 supporting female characters may be more appropriate. Kate and Bea were a little too similar for me, at least in their attitude and dialogue but I suspect over time they will get more distinct. Chandra brings the comedy and levity to keep the wheels turning, but it's the addition of Luella as the one who rounds out the group who makes them seem more like a family. The 4 come together in an unusual way which I'm not sure I am too fond of, but it eventually works enough to get the relationships started or on a different course depending on how much credence you give to the squabbling at the beginning of the story.
I'm hopeful that if this will be called the League of Literary Ladies, their interest in books will become more apparent. Chandra's preference to see the film versions rather than read is cute, but if you are going to call them the League of Literary Ladies, I think they will need to be more literate!
I greatly appreciate the story's narration or point of view coming from Bea who is the most logical on most occasions. I'm very fond of the author dropping in a little sarcasm directly calling out that there are readers or an audience to the book's hi-jinks. It only appears a few times, just enough to make you chuckle, but not enough to pull you out of or away from the actual story.
The B&B backdrop is strong. It will bring easy snooping, lots of new characters, and reasons why the protagonists are so often close to murders and mysteries. The most fascinating mystery is actually what brought Bea to this island from New York. In the first book we learn a few of her secrets and personal tragedies, but there are definitely strong direct and indirect hints at even more things we really need to know about her.
The relationships with the male characters throughout the story are slow to start but have potential. I'm not sure they are too critical to the story when you have 4 females already playing off one another in the suspense and clue-tracking escapades. It'll probably serve up good fodder for backdrop in helping the protagonists have more personality and feel more connected to the reader.
I'll give book 2 a chance to see where it's going... curious what others thought?
About Me
For those new to me or my reviews... here's the scoop: I read A LOT. I write A LOT. And now I blog A LOT. First the book review goes on Goodreads, and then I send it on over to my WordPress blog at https://thisismytruthnow.com, where you'll also find TV & Film reviews, the revealing and introspective 365 Daily Challenge and lots of blogging about places I've visited all over the world. And you can find all my social media profiles to get the details on the who/what/when/where and my pictures. Leave a comment and let me know what you think. Vote in the poll and ratings. Thanks for stopping by.
January 27, 2018
"What's left to say after you've found a body with three of your not-best friends?"
As cute as the synopsis promised it would be. A funny, great group of eccentric people are forced to join a book club to save the judge’s wife’s ailing library grant. When they’re all pushed together during a snowstorm in the main character’s newly bought and renovated Inn, they work together to solve the mystery of the local restaurant owner.
There are plenty of nods to Hercule Poirot since the club decides to read the Christie Classic Murder on the Orient Express. Okay sure, one just watched the movie and can’t pronounce the detective’s name to save her life, which just makes the whole thing funnier.
Several suspects with convincing reason to be behind the dastardly deed come to light, making it a layered mystery that kept me wondering. There aren’t red herrings but there are plenty of convincing trails to follow. There’s a neat twist with the culprit that I never saw coming either. I can’t complain any about clues left, suspects introduced, or crime scenes explored in their amusing ways.
There’s a potential and actually non-boring love interest brewing too. Many times in cozies there’s something missing without a possible love interest, but usually the future boyfriend is rather bland – not the case here. They have the sarcastic exchange thing going on so I’m curious.
I love the main character too. She’s a bit self-absorbed but this was supposed to be another funny trait. Being flawed helps keep her interesting enough to connect with. The nutsy neighbor with the incense and chanting music was the funniest of the group, but the entire group worked together well.
Throw in a Bed and Breakfast, small town, books, Agatha Christie, parties, and cats peeing on flowers – will definitely be considering this series. If I enjoy the others as much as this one, it will be a top favorite cozy mystery series.
As cute as the synopsis promised it would be. A funny, great group of eccentric people are forced to join a book club to save the judge’s wife’s ailing library grant. When they’re all pushed together during a snowstorm in the main character’s newly bought and renovated Inn, they work together to solve the mystery of the local restaurant owner.
There are plenty of nods to Hercule Poirot since the club decides to read the Christie Classic Murder on the Orient Express. Okay sure, one just watched the movie and can’t pronounce the detective’s name to save her life, which just makes the whole thing funnier.
Several suspects with convincing reason to be behind the dastardly deed come to light, making it a layered mystery that kept me wondering. There aren’t red herrings but there are plenty of convincing trails to follow. There’s a neat twist with the culprit that I never saw coming either. I can’t complain any about clues left, suspects introduced, or crime scenes explored in their amusing ways.
There’s a potential and actually non-boring love interest brewing too. Many times in cozies there’s something missing without a possible love interest, but usually the future boyfriend is rather bland – not the case here. They have the sarcastic exchange thing going on so I’m curious.
I love the main character too. She’s a bit self-absorbed but this was supposed to be another funny trait. Being flawed helps keep her interesting enough to connect with. The nutsy neighbor with the incense and chanting music was the funniest of the group, but the entire group worked together well.
Throw in a Bed and Breakfast, small town, books, Agatha Christie, parties, and cats peeing on flowers – will definitely be considering this series. If I enjoy the others as much as this one, it will be a top favorite cozy mystery series.
December 10, 2021
Well, this was the perfect follow up to Christie's Murder on the Orient Express.Having the events of that book fresh in my mind made this little cozy mystery even more enjoyable. However Logan gives no spoilers, so you can safely read it before Christie should you choose to.
The main character, Bea, has moved to a small town on an island to avoid some never-fully-explained nastiness in the big smoke of NYC. This is a common feature of this kind of mystery. There is usually some friction with neighbours too, which is where this novel gets its beginning. Bea, Chandra, and Kate are locked in a never-ending disagreement which has ended up in the local courthouse, where the judge sentences them to be a book club, run by his wife, where they must learn to talk to each other and to listen. And maybe read a book.
This is where Murder on the Orient Express comes in. It is their first book pick. After their first rather cranky meeting, they all end up running into each other again at the local Chinese restaurant, the Orient Express. Naturally, they discover the proprietor dead on the floor. All of a sudden, these women have a mutual interest and the template of Hercule Poirot to show them what to do.
Just like Christie's book, there is an overwhelming snowstorm, trapping everyone on the island. Bea's bed and breakfast starts filling up with strays and neighbours when light and heat go out over most of the island. Clues are plentiful and contradictory and the women must use their little grey cells.
The action is well constructed and believable, the characters realistic, and the mystery resolves in a reasonable way. We haven't learned Bea's personal history too clearly, although the guy introduced as a love interest for her thinks he knows what's going on. I must say that I'm looking forward to the second volume to understand Bea a little better and to see if Levi is going to stick around. Excellent fun!
The main character, Bea, has moved to a small town on an island to avoid some never-fully-explained nastiness in the big smoke of NYC. This is a common feature of this kind of mystery. There is usually some friction with neighbours too, which is where this novel gets its beginning. Bea, Chandra, and Kate are locked in a never-ending disagreement which has ended up in the local courthouse, where the judge sentences them to be a book club, run by his wife, where they must learn to talk to each other and to listen. And maybe read a book.
This is where Murder on the Orient Express comes in. It is their first book pick. After their first rather cranky meeting, they all end up running into each other again at the local Chinese restaurant, the Orient Express. Naturally, they discover the proprietor dead on the floor. All of a sudden, these women have a mutual interest and the template of Hercule Poirot to show them what to do.
Just like Christie's book, there is an overwhelming snowstorm, trapping everyone on the island. Bea's bed and breakfast starts filling up with strays and neighbours when light and heat go out over most of the island. Clues are plentiful and contradictory and the women must use their little grey cells.
The action is well constructed and believable, the characters realistic, and the mystery resolves in a reasonable way. We haven't learned Bea's personal history too clearly, although the guy introduced as a love interest for her thinks he knows what's going on. I must say that I'm looking forward to the second volume to understand Bea a little better and to see if Levi is going to stick around. Excellent fun!
March 13, 2017
I really loved this book. The characters were so well-developed and likeable - even with their many personality quirks. Kylie Logan really does a great job of crafting the story, and mystery, as well as giving the reader an interesting back story for the main character, Bea. I will say that, by the mid-point of the book I had guessed who the killer was, but it wasn't disappointing as there's a huge twist that didn't even occur to me so it was still a surprise. I loved this book so much that I went ahead and ordered the rest of the series so far. I can't wait until they get here so I can see what happens next to The League of Literary Ladies!
September 2, 2015
I love the cover of this book. A cover will sell me on a book before I even know what it is about. This one is a huge winner!!!
I loved it. The author did a great job and I am now a fan! I loved the characters, all likable and relate-able. I laughed out loud several times throughout the story.
Loved the humor, the descriptions of the town, the Bed and Breakfast that the main character owns and runs. I loved re-visiting the old Agatha Christie, "Murder on the Orient Express", in this book.
Take a few women, who get on each others nerves for various reasons, throw them together in a reading discussion group, not only that but push them even closer together when they have to stay at the bed and breakfast because of a snowstorm and they have no choice but to try and get along. Add a bit of murder, shut off the power, light a warm fire in the hearth and you've got an awesome recipe in what I call, "A Great Cozy"!
One of my favorite types of a read.
I loved it. The author did a great job and I am now a fan! I loved the characters, all likable and relate-able. I laughed out loud several times throughout the story.
Loved the humor, the descriptions of the town, the Bed and Breakfast that the main character owns and runs. I loved re-visiting the old Agatha Christie, "Murder on the Orient Express", in this book.
Take a few women, who get on each others nerves for various reasons, throw them together in a reading discussion group, not only that but push them even closer together when they have to stay at the bed and breakfast because of a snowstorm and they have no choice but to try and get along. Add a bit of murder, shut off the power, light a warm fire in the hearth and you've got an awesome recipe in what I call, "A Great Cozy"!
One of my favorite types of a read.
May 3, 2019
I was disappointed. I expected humour and cool, slightly nerdy references to the Christie classic (not crude pretentiousness with 2D characters). I knew there was a cat but he disappointingly barely figured.
The "literary ladies" disappointed me. They are hardly "literary" at all, being in an enforced book-club for acting like shrewish fish-wives. Yawn. Stereotype. The husband of the librarian sentences them to go to book club in a scene where the rational man has to deal with three harpies :( really this should have warned me about the gender yawn-inducing tropes ahead.
Chandra fits the word "literary" least, she doesn;t even read and takes an odd sort of pride in only watching the video. She is irrational in a tired and half-hearted sort of a way. From her name you could think she has some ethnic depth or something? But no she is just a hippy who thought her real name "Sandra" was too normal.
Kate is a scornful capitalist. She looks down on everyone and has a cruel streak. She admires nothing as much as business-sense and making money. The "good" thing about her is she doesn;t know anything good about herself.
Bea is a toasted marshmallow. She has a Great Secret but she hides behind dressing like a frump. She is supposed to be the intellectual of the group but I didn't see any signs of this. She protests that she does not have the hots for Levi, does not, does not, does not, does not until the reader who was apathetic both about the tiresome Levi and about her hormones says "just shag him already this is boring". Her friends are more obliging than the reader and actually care enough to tease her constantly about him. The many descriptions of Levi and his curly hair and tan or whatever are a great cure for insomnia, I'll give them that.
Every girl has a guy she desires in the book. Every girl-boy relationship has something creepy about it (Hank and Chunder are possibly the worst ones). There's a homophobic joke at one point but it would be a spoiler of sorts to say more about that. If there was actual humour somewhere I blinked and missed it but there is plenty of awkward slapstick and terrible dialogue.
There's a saying about falling off a turnip truck which at first I was going to put up with as an idiosyncrasy of one of the characters but by golly EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER in the book uses that odd phrase. They all speak the same.
I suspect the book was written in a tearing hurry. I expected more from an Orient Express spoof but never mind. I've got a horrific cold and needed something mindless to do and possibly this was less offensive than TV.
Probably.
Maybe.
The "literary ladies" disappointed me. They are hardly "literary" at all, being in an enforced book-club for acting like shrewish fish-wives. Yawn. Stereotype. The husband of the librarian sentences them to go to book club in a scene where the rational man has to deal with three harpies :( really this should have warned me about the gender yawn-inducing tropes ahead.
Chandra fits the word "literary" least, she doesn;t even read and takes an odd sort of pride in only watching the video. She is irrational in a tired and half-hearted sort of a way. From her name you could think she has some ethnic depth or something? But no she is just a hippy who thought her real name "Sandra" was too normal.
Kate is a scornful capitalist. She looks down on everyone and has a cruel streak. She admires nothing as much as business-sense and making money. The "good" thing about her is she doesn;t know anything good about herself.
Bea is a toasted marshmallow. She has a Great Secret but she hides behind dressing like a frump. She is supposed to be the intellectual of the group but I didn't see any signs of this. She protests that she does not have the hots for Levi, does not, does not, does not, does not until the reader who was apathetic both about the tiresome Levi and about her hormones says "just shag him already this is boring". Her friends are more obliging than the reader and actually care enough to tease her constantly about him. The many descriptions of Levi and his curly hair and tan or whatever are a great cure for insomnia, I'll give them that.
Every girl has a guy she desires in the book. Every girl-boy relationship has something creepy about it (Hank and Chunder are possibly the worst ones). There's a homophobic joke at one point but it would be a spoiler of sorts to say more about that. If there was actual humour somewhere I blinked and missed it but there is plenty of awkward slapstick and terrible dialogue.
There's a saying about falling off a turnip truck which at first I was going to put up with as an idiosyncrasy of one of the characters but by golly EVERY SINGLE CHARACTER in the book uses that odd phrase. They all speak the same.
I suspect the book was written in a tearing hurry. I expected more from an Orient Express spoof but never mind. I've got a horrific cold and needed something mindless to do and possibly this was less offensive than TV.
Probably.
Maybe.
April 14, 2014
Three neighbors are not able to get along and find themselves sentenced to attend a reading discussion group for a year. The first book is Murder On The Orient Express. The group's finds they all agree that orange-peanut chicken made by the local diner Orient Express is,the best meal they can have. All meet at the dinner to find the owner stabbed to death. An unusual spring snow storm strands them all together. The characters are different and describe well. At times it is funny. I like Ms Logan style and look forward to more from her. The Button Box Mysteries by her are 5 stars.
October 23, 2016
I enjoyed this book. It was enjoyable and a quick read!
Bea was new to the island where she was planning to open a bed and breakfast. The name she had planned on was Bea and Bees! But she did have some problems to work out before the summer season started!
She needed to get her neighbors to stop complaining about her to the courts. They found themselves in front of the judge, too many times. Bea complained about the noise from Kate because of her music all the time and she complained about Chandra's cat peeing on her flowers all the time. Kate and Chandra complained about the traffic of the trucks Bea had going back and forth because of the remodeling of the B and B she was trying to get ready for the summer season.
While they were in court complaining about each other, the librarian came in to tell the judge that she was losing her money for special programs because they were losing interest in people interested in book clubs.
As a way to solve all the problems of everybody, the judge tells Bea, Chandra, and Kate that they have to start a book club at the library. They decide to read Murder on the Orient Express for one reason, there is a new Chinese restaurant in town that they all love named The Orient Express.
One Monday night after a rather bad snow storm and an even worst fight at the library, they all end up at the Orient Express to get some orange/peanut chicken that they all love. They can't seem to find the owner, until someone looks over the front counter and finds Peter (the owner) dead with a knife in his chest. When they can't get the food, they call the police, in the meantime the weather is getting worst outside. The electricity is going out all over town. They decide to go to Bea's B N B. She has a generator. They all get stuck there for the next few days along with several guests that Bea was expecting and some that just showed up in the storm!
They decide to read the book and realize that some of the things that are going on are similar to the book. It is a very well written story with many people to keep track of and keep your mind going throughout the book. All in all very good! I am going to get the next one to find out how they decide to get along or not.
Bea was new to the island where she was planning to open a bed and breakfast. The name she had planned on was Bea and Bees! But she did have some problems to work out before the summer season started!
She needed to get her neighbors to stop complaining about her to the courts. They found themselves in front of the judge, too many times. Bea complained about the noise from Kate because of her music all the time and she complained about Chandra's cat peeing on her flowers all the time. Kate and Chandra complained about the traffic of the trucks Bea had going back and forth because of the remodeling of the B and B she was trying to get ready for the summer season.
While they were in court complaining about each other, the librarian came in to tell the judge that she was losing her money for special programs because they were losing interest in people interested in book clubs.
As a way to solve all the problems of everybody, the judge tells Bea, Chandra, and Kate that they have to start a book club at the library. They decide to read Murder on the Orient Express for one reason, there is a new Chinese restaurant in town that they all love named The Orient Express.
One Monday night after a rather bad snow storm and an even worst fight at the library, they all end up at the Orient Express to get some orange/peanut chicken that they all love. They can't seem to find the owner, until someone looks over the front counter and finds Peter (the owner) dead with a knife in his chest. When they can't get the food, they call the police, in the meantime the weather is getting worst outside. The electricity is going out all over town. They decide to go to Bea's B N B. She has a generator. They all get stuck there for the next few days along with several guests that Bea was expecting and some that just showed up in the storm!
They decide to read the book and realize that some of the things that are going on are similar to the book. It is a very well written story with many people to keep track of and keep your mind going throughout the book. All in all very good! I am going to get the next one to find out how they decide to get along or not.
January 16, 2016
At a local Chinese restaurant, it’s the owner who gets taken out…
Ex-Manhattanite Bea Cartwright, hippy cat lover Chandra Morrisey, and winery owner Kate Wilder may be neighbors but they are definitely not friends. They end up in Community Court to voice their complaints against each other and the unusual ruling leaves them having to spend time together each and every week. Since the local library is about to lose its funding because it doesn’t have a book discussion group, they are sentenced to start one. The League of Literary Ladies is born.
They choose Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express as their first book. They quickly learn that they all love to eat the exact same thing at the new restaurant in town, The Orient Express. It may be the only thing they agree on. They all meet up there after their first book group meeting. Their appetites disappear rapidly when they arrive to find owner, Peter Chan, has served his last meal ever. Some one has permanently taken him out.
Now with detective Hercule Poirot for inspiration, The Ladies have a really mystery to solve. Hopefully they can catch the killer before they kill each other…
Dollycas’s Thoughts
What a fun idea for a mystery series!! I loved it!!
These ladies are as fantastic characters. Quirky, bright, feisty, and engaging. Even Chandra who would rather watch the movie than read the book is someone I want to know better. A fourth woman, Luella, joins the group which is good because sometimes the other three need a referee.
Logan sets the book is a small tourist town that adds it own elements to the story. Where else would a book club be punishment for neighbors that just can’t seem to get along? Then there is a snow storm that knocks out power and that brings all the woman and their suspects together. Just like Christie’s classic mystery.
A fabulous story unfolds with several twists that keeps the reader entertained and the pages swiftly turning. Plan to read this one all in one sitting.
I can’t wait to see the book the League of Literary Ladies pick next!!
Ex-Manhattanite Bea Cartwright, hippy cat lover Chandra Morrisey, and winery owner Kate Wilder may be neighbors but they are definitely not friends. They end up in Community Court to voice their complaints against each other and the unusual ruling leaves them having to spend time together each and every week. Since the local library is about to lose its funding because it doesn’t have a book discussion group, they are sentenced to start one. The League of Literary Ladies is born.
They choose Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express as their first book. They quickly learn that they all love to eat the exact same thing at the new restaurant in town, The Orient Express. It may be the only thing they agree on. They all meet up there after their first book group meeting. Their appetites disappear rapidly when they arrive to find owner, Peter Chan, has served his last meal ever. Some one has permanently taken him out.
Now with detective Hercule Poirot for inspiration, The Ladies have a really mystery to solve. Hopefully they can catch the killer before they kill each other…
Dollycas’s Thoughts
What a fun idea for a mystery series!! I loved it!!
These ladies are as fantastic characters. Quirky, bright, feisty, and engaging. Even Chandra who would rather watch the movie than read the book is someone I want to know better. A fourth woman, Luella, joins the group which is good because sometimes the other three need a referee.
Logan sets the book is a small tourist town that adds it own elements to the story. Where else would a book club be punishment for neighbors that just can’t seem to get along? Then there is a snow storm that knocks out power and that brings all the woman and their suspects together. Just like Christie’s classic mystery.
A fabulous story unfolds with several twists that keeps the reader entertained and the pages swiftly turning. Plan to read this one all in one sitting.
I can’t wait to see the book the League of Literary Ladies pick next!!
November 14, 2013
New Yorker Bea Cartwright leaves the big city life behind when she opens a bed & breakfast inn in the small town of South Bass, an island on Lake Erie. When she gets into a legal battle with two of her neighbors, the judge orders the three women to attend a book discussion at the local library, which happens to be run by his wife.
None of the women are too thrilled with the punishment but they have no choice. Their first book discussion is about Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Ironically, their favorite Chinese restaurant is called Orient Express. The only thing the women agree on is that the orange chicken is delicious. Things take a real turn for the worst when they go to pick up their order and find the nice restaurant owner, Peter Chan, dead. Obviously someone didn’t think Chan was all that nice. Using their reading discussion as motivation, the ladies run their own investigation.
Their small island is hit with a huge snow storm leaving most of the island without electricity. The only place with any heat is Bea’s B&B, thanks to her generator. It doesn’t take long before her inn is full, including the very sexy local bar owner. However, the ladies can’t help but wonder if they are snowbound with a killer.
I loved this book from page one. It starts out with a cat named Jerry Garcia and his bad bathroom habits, which are ruining Bea’s pansies. How much fun to be sentenced to join a book club? This is a very clever idea for a mystery series which has huge cast of quirky characters. I love quirky :) The setting is perfect for a cozy mystery. It’s fast-paced and the story took more twists and turns than a rollercoaster along with a touch of romance. I will definitely keep reading this series. I’m looking forward to the next one.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
None of the women are too thrilled with the punishment but they have no choice. Their first book discussion is about Murder on the Orient Express by Agatha Christie. Ironically, their favorite Chinese restaurant is called Orient Express. The only thing the women agree on is that the orange chicken is delicious. Things take a real turn for the worst when they go to pick up their order and find the nice restaurant owner, Peter Chan, dead. Obviously someone didn’t think Chan was all that nice. Using their reading discussion as motivation, the ladies run their own investigation.
Their small island is hit with a huge snow storm leaving most of the island without electricity. The only place with any heat is Bea’s B&B, thanks to her generator. It doesn’t take long before her inn is full, including the very sexy local bar owner. However, the ladies can’t help but wonder if they are snowbound with a killer.
I loved this book from page one. It starts out with a cat named Jerry Garcia and his bad bathroom habits, which are ruining Bea’s pansies. How much fun to be sentenced to join a book club? This is a very clever idea for a mystery series which has huge cast of quirky characters. I love quirky :) The setting is perfect for a cozy mystery. It’s fast-paced and the story took more twists and turns than a rollercoaster along with a touch of romance. I will definitely keep reading this series. I’m looking forward to the next one.
FTC Disclosure: The publisher provided me with a copy of this book to review. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
March 26, 2023
2.5 stars
The three ladies were forced into a book club and none of them (except the main character, Bea, who read it because "she had time" and Luella, the older women who actually part of the book club before) take the book seriously. As someone who loves Agatha Christie's novels, that just irked me.
Then I had issues with all three of them: Bea, Kate, Chandra ... they were grating on each other's nerves, and also on me. I powered through the book, hoping my feelings would change, but nope, they still fighting in the middle of the book too. NO chemistry or unity between them.
I also though there were too much guessing for the conclusion (and I really couldn't imagine )
The three ladies were forced into a book club and none of them (except the main character, Bea, who read it because "she had time" and Luella, the older women who actually part of the book club before) take the book seriously. As someone who loves Agatha Christie's novels, that just irked me.
Then I had issues with all three of them: Bea, Kate, Chandra ... they were grating on each other's nerves, and also on me. I powered through the book, hoping my feelings would change, but nope, they still fighting in the middle of the book too. NO chemistry or unity between them.
I also though there were too much guessing for the conclusion (and I really couldn't imagine )
May 31, 2024
It's always a good day when you read another 5-star cozy! Bonus points for reading it with a friend! Mayhem at the Orient Express was inspired by Agatha Christie's Murder on the Orient Express and features a kooky cast of characters, a Chinese restaurant, and a cat named Jerry Garcia. This book does have some spoilers for Murder on the Orient Express, so I would say, if you're interested in reading that one, maybe read it before you pick up this cozy mystery. There are only 5 books in this series, which seems like an attainable goal to me! So, I'm excited to continue on with A Tale of Two Biddies in the coming months.
November 12, 2017
Just a few days ago I claimed to have found my favorite cozy read of the year, but I think this one equaled it. I absolutely adored all the characters, all the Agatha Christie references, the setting, absolutely everything. The humour absolutely made this, and the set up for the rest of the series is just fantastic. I only ordered book one, but now I need all of them!
Highly recommend this cozy series for mystery lovers, five stars!
Highly recommend this cozy series for mystery lovers, five stars!
August 10, 2013
After something happened to her in New York, Bea Cartwright has moved to South Bass, an island on Lake Erie, where she has opened a Bed and Breakfast in an old mansion. Bea really does not get along with her new neighbours at all, and when the local judge has had enough of their endless fights, he sentences them to a weekly bookclub, to learn to get along. And to safe his wife’s precious library from losing their funding.
Bea is from New York, and is working hard to get her B&B ready for opening. Kate owns a vineyard, and really dislikes all the trucks coming and going to the B&B, making noise in front of her house. Also, the B&B is a monstrosity of a house, and she really would have preferred it to be demolished, and the land used for her vineyard.
Chandra is some kind of New Age woman, burning incense, chanting, loudly playing music no one else likes. And Bea hates her because Chandra’s cat keeps peeing on her flowers. So they all dislike each other and now have to play nice.
Their trio is augmented with a fourth member, who really does want to belong to a bookclub, Luella Zak. Their first item is to pick a book to read, and that choice is limited to books the library has 5 copies of, and books they all have to like. Bea is adamant about not wanting to read a thriller. And so they settle on the classic Agatha Christie – Murder at the Orient Express. Only Chandra does not want to read the book, she will watch the movie instead.
And so the ladies quickly leave the library again, intent to continue with their own lives. Somehow, they all end up at the Orient Express in the village, the new Chinese Restaurant. Where they find the owner murdered.
With the snow storm going on worsening, cutting power to big parts of the island, all four ladies and some other guests end up in Bea’s B&B, where there is still power and warmth. They decide to figure out who killed Peter, using the book as a guide on how to go about it. The local police officer doesn’t care much for their opinions, especially as he is Chandra’s second ex husband.
Another new cozy mystery series, and unfortunately, another one that just did not work for me. There are a lot of hints about Bea’s past adventure with a stalker, but nothing is just plain explained. I hate that. It has no bearing on the book either, so why not just tell us? The possible love interest for Bea does know her story as he recognizes her.
There were lots of clues in the book, and the ladies just overlooked them or jumped to the wrong conclusions. I did not foresee everything in the book, but I did see a lot coming.
There was nothing for me to like about Bea, Chandra or Kate. Only the hardworking fishing woman Luella, I did like her and how she sometimes took charge of the bickering trio.
The book itself is well written, and well paced, but for me it just lacks some things. I need to be able to connect with the main characters, and care for what happens to them. I won’t be reading anything else by this author. If you are intrigued by this, just read some other reviews and give it a go.
6 stars.
Bea is from New York, and is working hard to get her B&B ready for opening. Kate owns a vineyard, and really dislikes all the trucks coming and going to the B&B, making noise in front of her house. Also, the B&B is a monstrosity of a house, and she really would have preferred it to be demolished, and the land used for her vineyard.
Chandra is some kind of New Age woman, burning incense, chanting, loudly playing music no one else likes. And Bea hates her because Chandra’s cat keeps peeing on her flowers. So they all dislike each other and now have to play nice.
Their trio is augmented with a fourth member, who really does want to belong to a bookclub, Luella Zak. Their first item is to pick a book to read, and that choice is limited to books the library has 5 copies of, and books they all have to like. Bea is adamant about not wanting to read a thriller. And so they settle on the classic Agatha Christie – Murder at the Orient Express. Only Chandra does not want to read the book, she will watch the movie instead.
And so the ladies quickly leave the library again, intent to continue with their own lives. Somehow, they all end up at the Orient Express in the village, the new Chinese Restaurant. Where they find the owner murdered.
With the snow storm going on worsening, cutting power to big parts of the island, all four ladies and some other guests end up in Bea’s B&B, where there is still power and warmth. They decide to figure out who killed Peter, using the book as a guide on how to go about it. The local police officer doesn’t care much for their opinions, especially as he is Chandra’s second ex husband.
Another new cozy mystery series, and unfortunately, another one that just did not work for me. There are a lot of hints about Bea’s past adventure with a stalker, but nothing is just plain explained. I hate that. It has no bearing on the book either, so why not just tell us? The possible love interest for Bea does know her story as he recognizes her.
There were lots of clues in the book, and the ladies just overlooked them or jumped to the wrong conclusions. I did not foresee everything in the book, but I did see a lot coming.
There was nothing for me to like about Bea, Chandra or Kate. Only the hardworking fishing woman Luella, I did like her and how she sometimes took charge of the bickering trio.
The book itself is well written, and well paced, but for me it just lacks some things. I need to be able to connect with the main characters, and care for what happens to them. I won’t be reading anything else by this author. If you are intrigued by this, just read some other reviews and give it a go.
6 stars.
© 2013 Reviews by Aurian
June 6, 2013
Kylie Logan is a pseudonym of Casey Daniels, author of the Pepper Martin mysteries. This is the first book I've read by this particular pseudonym though.
Mayhem at the Orient Express is the first book in the League of Literary Ladies series. A group of women is ordered to participate in a book club for a year, by the local mayor/judge who is tired of their bickering. The first book they decide to read is Murder on the Orient Express. It just so happens that a murder occurs on their small island, when the island is locked down due to a snow storm, which definitely reminds the ladies of the book they're reading.
Mayhem is written in first person in the voice of Bea Cartwright, the new-to-town owner of a B&B. I think Logan/Daniels does a good job of writing in first person, her voice is very conversational. This is a good start to the new series and I will definitely be looking for the next one. And maybe re-reading Murder on the Orient Express too.
Mayhem at the Orient Express is the first book in the League of Literary Ladies series. A group of women is ordered to participate in a book club for a year, by the local mayor/judge who is tired of their bickering. The first book they decide to read is Murder on the Orient Express. It just so happens that a murder occurs on their small island, when the island is locked down due to a snow storm, which definitely reminds the ladies of the book they're reading.
Mayhem is written in first person in the voice of Bea Cartwright, the new-to-town owner of a B&B. I think Logan/Daniels does a good job of writing in first person, her voice is very conversational. This is a good start to the new series and I will definitely be looking for the next one. And maybe re-reading Murder on the Orient Express too.
June 25, 2013
This is probably a 3.5 star read, but am going with 4 instead of 3 since I love this author's Pepper Martin books that she writes as Casey Daniels and I also enjoy her button series written as Kylie Logan. 3 neighbors who can't get along with each other are sentenced to be a book group. Sounds like a silly premise, but it really works. The first book they are to read is MURDER ON THE ORIENT EXPRESS. And a new Chinese restaurant has opened in town called The Orient Express. All 3 ladies, plus the other non-sentenced lady, descend on the restaurant after their first meeting and find the proprietor stabbed through the heart. A great setup for a fun story. The book takes place on one of the Bass Islands in Lake Erie, which is a beautiful setting. Put-In-Bay is a great place that I would very much like to visit again now that I'm an adult. Great first in series! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
April 1, 2017
Entertaining and a light cozy read, a bit too contrived but all right for a cozy. I really enjoyed the setting and the snowstorm trapping so many characters in the old house,now a bed and breakfast, though!
June 16, 2013
I ::Loved:: this book! I never say that about firsts-in-series; most of them are a bit clunky and awkward, as the author is getting to know their characters on paper for the first time. This book was just excellent and I felt like it took off from the first page.
I love the setting - an island 12 miles into Lake Michigan. That just invites quirky characters and eccentricities. And the location allows for weather of all kinds - a spring blizzard in this book, allowing the setup to work perfectly.
The POV is first person, but it's set up in a way that's a *bit* like Bea is talking directly to you - not irritatingly so - just enough that her personality really comes through, and I love her personality. She's smart, accomplished, wealthy AND she has a past. But instead of dumping it all out on you right at the beginning, there are just small comments; reactions to things that hint at bigger things and again, not in an irritating fashion; the action is fast paced and interesting so you aren't feeling like you're being teased (too much) or led around by a hook. I'm pretty sure I know what her former career was, and she comes right out and eventually shares what brought her to the island and a new life, but there's still so much to learn!
The other characters are all introduced almost at once, but each is so unique I didn't have any trouble keeping them straight. I like Kate's character; Chandra is just a wee bit too much of a caricature at points, but she shows a streak of mischief I really like! And oh my heaven, Levi. Ms. Logan's other series (which I genuinely like a LOT) has a sweet romance sub-plot that you find yourself cheering for. But this series and Levi - HOT! Love the banter between him and Bea; the author does an excellent job making the tension between those two vivid. And he just screams "man with a past!" to me - I hope I'm not wrong. Kate has a possible love interest as well who intrigues me - I want to know more about him as well - and Chandra is too busy having fun looking back. ;)
Finally, the plot - well done Ms. Logan, well done. I never had a clue who the villain was - lots of suspects, disparate clues - and when it was revealed, well, I read a lot of cozies, and I'm not saying it's never been done before, but this is the first time I've seen it.
I can't wait to read more about these three. Ms. Logan has set the bar high for herself with this one; I hope it's a sign of things to come. I found this book to be a breath of fresh air in a genre that's been threatening to stale for some time now. I'll be eagerly awaiting word of book two!
I love the setting - an island 12 miles into Lake Michigan. That just invites quirky characters and eccentricities. And the location allows for weather of all kinds - a spring blizzard in this book, allowing the setup to work perfectly.
The POV is first person, but it's set up in a way that's a *bit* like Bea is talking directly to you - not irritatingly so - just enough that her personality really comes through, and I love her personality. She's smart, accomplished, wealthy AND she has a past. But instead of dumping it all out on you right at the beginning, there are just small comments; reactions to things that hint at bigger things and again, not in an irritating fashion; the action is fast paced and interesting so you aren't feeling like you're being teased (too much) or led around by a hook. I'm pretty sure I know what her former career was, and she comes right out and eventually shares what brought her to the island and a new life, but there's still so much to learn!
The other characters are all introduced almost at once, but each is so unique I didn't have any trouble keeping them straight. I like Kate's character; Chandra is just a wee bit too much of a caricature at points, but she shows a streak of mischief I really like! And oh my heaven, Levi. Ms. Logan's other series (which I genuinely like a LOT) has a sweet romance sub-plot that you find yourself cheering for. But this series and Levi - HOT! Love the banter between him and Bea; the author does an excellent job making the tension between those two vivid. And he just screams "man with a past!" to me - I hope I'm not wrong. Kate has a possible love interest as well who intrigues me - I want to know more about him as well - and Chandra is too busy having fun looking back. ;)
Finally, the plot - well done Ms. Logan, well done. I never had a clue who the villain was - lots of suspects, disparate clues - and when it was revealed, well, I read a lot of cozies, and I'm not saying it's never been done before, but this is the first time I've seen it.
I can't wait to read more about these three. Ms. Logan has set the bar high for herself with this one; I hope it's a sign of things to come. I found this book to be a breath of fresh air in a genre that's been threatening to stale for some time now. I'll be eagerly awaiting word of book two!
July 18, 2013
This is the first book in the A League of Literary Ladies Mystery series.
Bea Cartwright, Chandra Morrisey and Kate Wilder all live in the same neighborhood on South Bass Island, OH and they are always being drawn into Magistrate Court because of it. The judge finally orders them to form a book club at the local library. This is easier said than done, but finally agree on Murder On The Orient Express by Agatha Christie. What helped make this decision, is that Peter Chan has recently opened a new restaurant, The Orient Express. A gusty snow storm has started and they decide to cancel the meeting until the next week. Surprisingly enough they all have stopped by The Orient Express to get their favorite, Orange Chicken. When they arrive, they find Peter dead. they end up going to Bea's B&B to discuss what they have just found.
By the next day, the snow is still falling and no is going in or off the island. By now Bea's B&B is full over flowing and that can only mean that the murderer is there too. Bea, Kate, and Chandra put the past aside and work together to find the murderer.
I enjoy Logan's other books, but something just didn't click for me with this one. I'm thinking that I thought too mush time was spent setting the story up. I will be reading the next one to see if I was wrong and can get into the series.
Bea Cartwright, Chandra Morrisey and Kate Wilder all live in the same neighborhood on South Bass Island, OH and they are always being drawn into Magistrate Court because of it. The judge finally orders them to form a book club at the local library. This is easier said than done, but finally agree on Murder On The Orient Express by Agatha Christie. What helped make this decision, is that Peter Chan has recently opened a new restaurant, The Orient Express. A gusty snow storm has started and they decide to cancel the meeting until the next week. Surprisingly enough they all have stopped by The Orient Express to get their favorite, Orange Chicken. When they arrive, they find Peter dead. they end up going to Bea's B&B to discuss what they have just found.
By the next day, the snow is still falling and no is going in or off the island. By now Bea's B&B is full over flowing and that can only mean that the murderer is there too. Bea, Kate, and Chandra put the past aside and work together to find the murderer.
I enjoy Logan's other books, but something just didn't click for me with this one. I'm thinking that I thought too mush time was spent setting the story up. I will be reading the next one to see if I was wrong and can get into the series.
July 12, 2016
This is a delightful cozy mystery, and it was especially a delight to discuss it with my book club as we read, trying to figure out "who did it?" Well written, full of laughs and all the good things for a quick and light read to make you feel better.
June 5, 2020
This book has been on my shelf for several years and I've checked it out a couple of times prior to this one, but I never seemed to get it read. And that's a shame because it was a great read. The characters were well-built and interesting, and I enjoyed getting to know them. The idea of the island setting in a snowstorm made for extra coziness, and made the whole story work beautifully. The similarities to the Christie novel were such fun, and the mystery itself was a nice homage to the little Belgian. All-in-all, it was a great start to a series that I look forward to continuing.
March 11, 2018
Such a fun start to a series, and I'm absolutely looking forward to more books in the League of Literary Ladies series by Kylie Logan. The combination of a cozy murder, one of my favorite mysteries, and four independent women was simply perfect! Well told and kept me guessing! :-)
Read
June 27, 2018Mayhem at the Orient Express | Cozy Mystery Book Club YouTube Livestream: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dfWwn...
May 1, 2019
A nice first cozy in the series. I would recommend either having read Murder on the Orient Express before reading....a couple hours with Johnny Depp is not too much to ask. 😁
July 27, 2024
For me what I look for in a cozy is great banter and comedy plus food 🧁.
This just wasn’t light hearted enough for me. It was good, but I think I found myself getting spaced out and not paying attention way too much.
This just wasn’t light hearted enough for me. It was good, but I think I found myself getting spaced out and not paying attention way too much.
March 30, 2017
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October 7, 2016
I was so pleasantly surprised by this book. It begins with Bea who is new to the island on Lake Erie and has opened a B&B who is not getting along with her neighbors. So they (3 ladies) are ordered by a judge to start a book club at the library. Their bickering was pretty funny to me so I started liking this book almost instantly.
The first book they decide to read is Murder On The Orient Express. And the best restaurant in town is called the Orient Express. Run by Peter Chan who makes the greatest peanut orange chicken ever which the ladies all agree on.
A snowstorm is coming and they all end up at the Orient Express to get some food and discover a murder.
So they all go back to Bea's B&B because electricity has shut down and she has a generator.
A bunch of people end up showing up and they start worrying that the murderer could be staying at the B&B with them. I was also suprised by the ending and did not guess the murderer.
I just loved the snowstorm theme and the humor throughout this cozy mystery. I live in South Texas so I never see snow (or very rare) so I liked pretending I was there at least while reading this book :).
I did not really understand the cover though as the cat and library, although they both did play a part in this book it was very brief.
Anyway, I liked this one a lot and I give it 5 stars. I will definitely continue this series.
October 15, 2013
Ok, I really liked the book and Bea for the most part.
*** mini rant on annoying parts begins ***
But the petty sniping the neighbors do to get sentenced to the book club is ridiculous and who lives on an island near Ohio (must be in a Great Lake) in winter without a generator? I mean Bea is new to the area and is having to put up half the residents because she has a generator. And do generators really keep a huge Victorian comfy for multiple days on end while running constantly? And you don't go driving before the roads are clear just because you want to see the murder site again. And you certainly don't risk your life getting to town and then not try and find some groceries for the huge, unexpected crowd at your place. So these things bugged me and cost the book a star in its rating. Well it felt good to get that off my chest.
*** mini rant ends ***
Other than all that, I liked the book, I liked that the characters came together in a crisis and seem to be heading towards a good friendship. I plan to read the sequel, although I hope they show a little more common sense next time around.
*** mini rant on annoying parts begins ***
But the petty sniping the neighbors do to get sentenced to the book club is ridiculous and who lives on an island near Ohio (must be in a Great Lake) in winter without a generator? I mean Bea is new to the area and is having to put up half the residents because she has a generator. And do generators really keep a huge Victorian comfy for multiple days on end while running constantly? And you don't go driving before the roads are clear just because you want to see the murder site again. And you certainly don't risk your life getting to town and then not try and find some groceries for the huge, unexpected crowd at your place. So these things bugged me and cost the book a star in its rating. Well it felt good to get that off my chest.
*** mini rant ends ***
Other than all that, I liked the book, I liked that the characters came together in a crisis and seem to be heading towards a good friendship. I plan to read the sequel, although I hope they show a little more common sense next time around.
June 17, 2016
I chose to read this book because of recommendations of other cozy readers. What I liked about the book was that it was a fast read and liked the snowed in theme of the mystery. I liked the idea of the amateur investigators belonging to a book club. The main character was establishing a bed and breakfast and that was interesting. I wish I could have the peanut orange chicken that was everyones favorite.
However, the bickering at the beginning of the book was irritating to me and I didn't find it amusing. I think it was suppose to be comical. I didn't care much for any of the characters. The relationship of Bea and Levi didn't add to the plot of the book for me. This book is really liked by a lot of cozy readers and was just so-so for me. It is possible that you will like it but it wasn't for me
However, the bickering at the beginning of the book was irritating to me and I didn't find it amusing. I think it was suppose to be comical. I didn't care much for any of the characters. The relationship of Bea and Levi didn't add to the plot of the book for me. This book is really liked by a lot of cozy readers and was just so-so for me. It is possible that you will like it but it wasn't for me
May 20, 2016
Wow, third great book in a row, I know this isn't going to last forever. This book was amazing,and kept me glued to the pages.
Probably the biggest reason why I liked this book was the characters. Bea, Luella, Kate, and Chandra are some of the most likeable and believable characters I've read in awhile. Each had their faults, but each was lovable in their own way.
The biggest area I found this area lacking in was the setting. Sure some parts were described quite well, but I couldn't quite picture other areas in my head.
Overall a really quick, enjoyable book that I'd easily recommend to anyone.
Probably the biggest reason why I liked this book was the characters. Bea, Luella, Kate, and Chandra are some of the most likeable and believable characters I've read in awhile. Each had their faults, but each was lovable in their own way.
The biggest area I found this area lacking in was the setting. Sure some parts were described quite well, but I couldn't quite picture other areas in my head.
Overall a really quick, enjoyable book that I'd easily recommend to anyone.
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