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Booktown Mystery #7
Not the Killing Type
In the latest New York Times bestselling Booktown Mystery, amateur sleuth and bookstore owner Tricia Miles gets caught up in a local election that turns lethal . . .
It’s November in Stoneham, New Hampshire, and time for the Chamber of Commerce elections. The long-standing Chamber president is being challenged by a former lover—Tricia’s own sister, Angelica. Also throwing his hat in the ring is small business owner Stan Berry. Unfortunately, Stan isn’t in the race for long.
When Stan is found murdered, his political rivals become suspects. Angelica is going to need more than a vote of confidence from her sister—she needs Tricia to clear her name so she can win the election.
Tricia soon uncovers a ballot box full of lies and betrayals, and a chamber full of people who had grudges against the victim. But were they serious enough to lead to murder? It’s up to Tricia to pull the lever on a killer before it’s curtains for someone else.
It’s November in Stoneham, New Hampshire, and time for the Chamber of Commerce elections. The long-standing Chamber president is being challenged by a former lover—Tricia’s own sister, Angelica. Also throwing his hat in the ring is small business owner Stan Berry. Unfortunately, Stan isn’t in the race for long.
When Stan is found murdered, his political rivals become suspects. Angelica is going to need more than a vote of confidence from her sister—she needs Tricia to clear her name so she can win the election.
Tricia soon uncovers a ballot box full of lies and betrayals, and a chamber full of people who had grudges against the victim. But were they serious enough to lead to murder? It’s up to Tricia to pull the lever on a killer before it’s curtains for someone else.
409 pages, Hardcover
First published July 2, 2013
132 people are currently reading
2185 people want to read
About the author
Lorna Barrett
24 books1,788 followersThe immensely popular Booktown Mystery series is what put Lorna Barrett’s name on the New York Times Bestseller list, but it’s her talent -- whether writing as Lorna, or L.L. Bartlett, or Lorraine Bartlett -- that keeps her there. This multi-published, Agatha-nominated author pens the exciting Jeff Resnick Mysteries as well as the acclaimed Victoria Square Mystery series and has many short stories and novellas to her name(s). Check out the links to all her works here: http://www.lornabarrett.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 363 reviews
November 7, 2012
I wrote it; I liked it!
May 2, 2022
Not the Killing Type is the 7th book in the Booktown Mysteries written by Lorna Barrett. I've read the previous installments in the series and enjoyed this one very much. Tricia and her sister, Angelica, run bookshops in a small town in New Hampshire. Angelica is also a chef and promoting her own cookbook, but she still decides to run against her ex-boyfriend, Bob, to lead the Chamber of Commerce. Unfortunately, another man also throws his hat in the ring, and during a meeting break just prior to the final vote, Tricia discovers that he's dead. What's the backstory that got the poor man knifed in the restaurant bathroom? This was one of the stronger mysteries in the collection. The characters have taken shape nicely, even if some of them are a bit cantankerous and flighty. The mystery was full of potential culprits, including a new younger man who has taken a liking to Tricia. She's got her hands full with a local detective and her ex-husband who's shown up asking for a re-do on their marriage. I don't like either of the two men for her and want her to either remain alone for a few books or give the new guy a chance (assuming he's not the murderer, which I won't spoil). For a cozy, this one definitely pushed the limits with the storyline (totally okay by me, but want to warn others who prefer not to have anything too dark in their light amateur sleuth, small-town mysteries). I'm excited to see the election winner's plans for the town. I look forward to the next book too.
October 10, 2014
Don't read. Not worth it. I don't understand how so many people give this series such high marks. Now, I have a sense of humor and I do not get offended easily. This book however was one disappointment after the other. I ended up skimming pages and skipping ahead to see that I correctly guessed who and why someone was murdered in this novel.
I am done reading this series. The last two books were very disappointing. I love the idea of small town, cozy mysteries. I liked this series a lot when I first started reading it. However, the last two novels, I don't know if there are bad things happening in the author's personal life, but the characters have evolved into assholes. I tried #7 even after #6 was just rampant with rudeness and negativity. As I read more books in a series I typically like the characters more. Not with this novel. The main character is obnoxious. She is petty and shallow. It might make a difference in the story if the author had an ability to use it to charm readers but she fails miserably at that.
At first I thought the author was changing things around. Angelica wasn't such a bitch, especially to her sister. Tricia was coming to the conclusion she needed to lighten up. But as I read more and more I realized nothing was going to change. The mystery in itself was disappointing the the murderer was too obvious. The background was even more disappointing. Chubby Chasers International?? Really? The author wrote that one of the women in the magazines was the size of two zebras. Seriously? This is what your novels have turned to? But even worse than that were Tricia's comments about people who were over weight. I started praying someone would murder her if she mentioned her caloric intake one more time. So is the author overweight and doesn't like herself or is she skinny and afraid of gaining weight? Trying to figure out why she would write constantly about Tricia's food intake and fear of eating too much at dinner.
I am done reading this series. The last two books were very disappointing. I love the idea of small town, cozy mysteries. I liked this series a lot when I first started reading it. However, the last two novels, I don't know if there are bad things happening in the author's personal life, but the characters have evolved into assholes. I tried #7 even after #6 was just rampant with rudeness and negativity. As I read more books in a series I typically like the characters more. Not with this novel. The main character is obnoxious. She is petty and shallow. It might make a difference in the story if the author had an ability to use it to charm readers but she fails miserably at that.
At first I thought the author was changing things around. Angelica wasn't such a bitch, especially to her sister. Tricia was coming to the conclusion she needed to lighten up. But as I read more and more I realized nothing was going to change. The mystery in itself was disappointing the the murderer was too obvious. The background was even more disappointing. Chubby Chasers International?? Really? The author wrote that one of the women in the magazines was the size of two zebras. Seriously? This is what your novels have turned to? But even worse than that were Tricia's comments about people who were over weight. I started praying someone would murder her if she mentioned her caloric intake one more time. So is the author overweight and doesn't like herself or is she skinny and afraid of gaining weight? Trying to figure out why she would write constantly about Tricia's food intake and fear of eating too much at dinner.
August 14, 2014
I've had a like/hate relationship with these little books, but this one pushed me right over the forward slash from the "e" in like face-first into hate. HATE. This was a miserable reading experience, and I don't think I'll read these any more.
Here's what I liked about other books in the series: the town, loosely resembling Milford, NH, but mostly populated with bookstores; what the author would probably call "alternative lifestyles" being explored through some of its characters: freegans, ex-cons, etc.; dramatic, as far as cozies go, mysteries with a bit of danger; people patiently explaining to the judgmental main character what a horrible person she is, without saying it.
Here's what I hated: the extremely judgmental main character, her relationships, anything that didn't have to do with the bookstore. And that's this book. It is ENTIRELY about Tricia, her disgusting attitude, her relationships, and very little time spent in the bookstore. After the initial murder, literally nothing happens over the next 300 pages except for three men falling all over Tricia for no reason and wondering who is going to be elected president of the Chamber of Commerce. High drama, folks. Tricia hates Pixie's tacky Christmas decorating style, she seems to think recycling is pointless, and she generally complains about everything. It's so tiresome.
Angelica, Tricia's sister, calls her "stuffy," which I appreciated, but Tricia pouts so much about it, it feels like I'm supposed to sympathize with her and her horrible, gross, judgmental attitude. Tricia loosens up a bit, ordering an extra drink or a dinner that isn't simply a salad, but it's not enough. She rolls her eyes, either literally or figuratively, on practically every third page.
Here are some of her greatest (read: worst) hits:
1. Pixie: "It's a condition of my parole that I not frequent businesses that serve alcohol. Just in case I'm tempted to... you know."
Tricia: Take up her old life as a prostitute? Yes, Tricia could see the danger frequenting a bar might pose.
[Me: Oh my god. Yes, one drink and you become a WHORE.]
2. Tricia took a tiny sip of her drink. It was watered down, as most restaurant drinks seem to be.
3. Couldn't Pixie see the items in the box for what they were -- someone else's cast offs? [Me: OH MY GOD. Tricia's parents were stuffy assholes, and Tricia hates them for it, yet she, herself, is a stuffy asshole.]
4. The way she kept nodding, Frannie seemed to be imitating a bobblehead.
5. This attractive, well-dressed--and well-spoken--young man didn't look the worse for wear for being brought up by a single mother. And he didn't sound all that bitter about his experience, either. [Me: OH MY FUCKING GOD. Yes, most men brought up by single mothers are ugly, wear rags, and can't speak no English very good. Are you kidding me? And she just met the man. Why would he complain to someone he just met about his upbringing? Oh, probably because sour-ass Tricia totally would herself.]
6. No, this tree was elegant. Pixie was willing to settle for bright and gaudy. [Me: LEAVE IT ALONE.]
7. Tricia: "The fact that we're talking fact and not fiction makes no difference to me." [Me: Tricia is borderline sociopathic about finding dead bodies at this point. Literally no one cares that someone is killed. Why should I care who did it?]
8: Tricia: "What would make women pose for these demaning kinds of publications?
Angelica: "Let's see... to pay the rent? Put food on the table? Maybe it was a chance for them to feel sexy?" [Me: This is one of the few scenarios in the book where someone actually calls Tricia out on her judgmental bullshit.]
9. Tricia found herself getting antsy. What if Angelica won? Would she be so busy she'd have no time for Tricia? [Me: Yes, Tricia is turning Angelica's Chamber president bid into something all about her. Literally four pages ago, Angelica called Tricia early in the morning, and Tricia told her to go away because it was too early for her to be awake.]
I did like how, after finding a dead body in a bathroom, Tricia is disappointed for not bringing a book with her to occupy herself while waiting for the police. I'd probably think the same thing. And I liked a line about how just because two New Hampshire towns might just be 15 miles apart, it could take a freaking hour to get between them because of the state's circuitous highway system.
Here's what I liked about other books in the series: the town, loosely resembling Milford, NH, but mostly populated with bookstores; what the author would probably call "alternative lifestyles" being explored through some of its characters: freegans, ex-cons, etc.; dramatic, as far as cozies go, mysteries with a bit of danger; people patiently explaining to the judgmental main character what a horrible person she is, without saying it.
Here's what I hated: the extremely judgmental main character, her relationships, anything that didn't have to do with the bookstore. And that's this book. It is ENTIRELY about Tricia, her disgusting attitude, her relationships, and very little time spent in the bookstore. After the initial murder, literally nothing happens over the next 300 pages except for three men falling all over Tricia for no reason and wondering who is going to be elected president of the Chamber of Commerce. High drama, folks. Tricia hates Pixie's tacky Christmas decorating style, she seems to think recycling is pointless, and she generally complains about everything. It's so tiresome.
Angelica, Tricia's sister, calls her "stuffy," which I appreciated, but Tricia pouts so much about it, it feels like I'm supposed to sympathize with her and her horrible, gross, judgmental attitude. Tricia loosens up a bit, ordering an extra drink or a dinner that isn't simply a salad, but it's not enough. She rolls her eyes, either literally or figuratively, on practically every third page.
Here are some of her greatest (read: worst) hits:
1. Pixie: "It's a condition of my parole that I not frequent businesses that serve alcohol. Just in case I'm tempted to... you know."
Tricia: Take up her old life as a prostitute? Yes, Tricia could see the danger frequenting a bar might pose.
[Me: Oh my god. Yes, one drink and you become a WHORE.]
2. Tricia took a tiny sip of her drink. It was watered down, as most restaurant drinks seem to be.
3. Couldn't Pixie see the items in the box for what they were -- someone else's cast offs? [Me: OH MY GOD. Tricia's parents were stuffy assholes, and Tricia hates them for it, yet she, herself, is a stuffy asshole.]
4. The way she kept nodding, Frannie seemed to be imitating a bobblehead.
5. This attractive, well-dressed--and well-spoken--young man didn't look the worse for wear for being brought up by a single mother. And he didn't sound all that bitter about his experience, either. [Me: OH MY FUCKING GOD. Yes, most men brought up by single mothers are ugly, wear rags, and can't speak no English very good. Are you kidding me? And she just met the man. Why would he complain to someone he just met about his upbringing? Oh, probably because sour-ass Tricia totally would herself.]
6. No, this tree was elegant. Pixie was willing to settle for bright and gaudy. [Me: LEAVE IT ALONE.]
7. Tricia: "The fact that we're talking fact and not fiction makes no difference to me." [Me: Tricia is borderline sociopathic about finding dead bodies at this point. Literally no one cares that someone is killed. Why should I care who did it?]
8: Tricia: "What would make women pose for these demaning kinds of publications?
Angelica: "Let's see... to pay the rent? Put food on the table? Maybe it was a chance for them to feel sexy?" [Me: This is one of the few scenarios in the book where someone actually calls Tricia out on her judgmental bullshit.]
9. Tricia found herself getting antsy. What if Angelica won? Would she be so busy she'd have no time for Tricia? [Me: Yes, Tricia is turning Angelica's Chamber president bid into something all about her. Literally four pages ago, Angelica called Tricia early in the morning, and Tricia told her to go away because it was too early for her to be awake.]
I did like how, after finding a dead body in a bathroom, Tricia is disappointed for not bringing a book with her to occupy herself while waiting for the police. I'd probably think the same thing. And I liked a line about how just because two New Hampshire towns might just be 15 miles apart, it could take a freaking hour to get between them because of the state's circuitous highway system.
December 8, 2014
Woooow. Tricia is a TERRIBLE person. Here are some of the things she does that pissed me off:
1. Was SUPER judgy about Pixie's Christmas decorations.
2. Called the fat women in a "chubby chaser's" mag she found "pathetic," and determined that any man who could be attracted to them was "sick"
3. Was incredibly nosy! Maybe this is just a part of all mysteries, and I haven't noticed how awful it is until now, but Tricia was seriously annoying me by asking everyone their business all the time.
4. Talks constantly about calories, eating healthy, how she regrets eating some stupid danish for breakfast - your diet is boring, Tricia. Shut up about it.
5. Lies to the town's wedding planner in order to get personal information from her. Seriously, she pretends she might get married (when in reality she has NO intention of doing so), then pointedly says she'd only want a friend to be her wedding planner, then pries the details of the wedding planner's recent breakup out of her.
6. When a character confesses that she was raped, Tricia immediately thinks "How could he possibly have felt sexual desire for her? She was fat!" And then she asks the lady how much older she was than her rapist, as if to say "Really? I just can't believe anyone could rape you!"
7.
Really, really, REALLY terrible. I will not be reading another in this series.
1. Was SUPER judgy about Pixie's Christmas decorations.
2. Called the fat women in a "chubby chaser's" mag she found "pathetic," and determined that any man who could be attracted to them was "sick"
3. Was incredibly nosy! Maybe this is just a part of all mysteries, and I haven't noticed how awful it is until now, but Tricia was seriously annoying me by asking everyone their business all the time.
4. Talks constantly about calories, eating healthy, how she regrets eating some stupid danish for breakfast - your diet is boring, Tricia. Shut up about it.
5. Lies to the town's wedding planner in order to get personal information from her. Seriously, she pretends she might get married (when in reality she has NO intention of doing so), then pointedly says she'd only want a friend to be her wedding planner, then pries the details of the wedding planner's recent breakup out of her.
6. When a character confesses that she was raped, Tricia immediately thinks "How could he possibly have felt sexual desire for her? She was fat!" And then she asks the lady how much older she was than her rapist, as if to say "Really? I just can't believe anyone could rape you!"
7.
Really, really, REALLY terrible. I will not be reading another in this series.
April 15, 2018
I will bet good money that the author lost every fan that has a BMI over 35. Rightfully so.
August 19, 2013
I wasn't crazy about this installment. I think part of it was a bit personal - I didn't like Tricia's reaction
March 10, 2020
Suffice to say this will be my last book by Lorna Barrett. Instead of accusing the author, I'll describe her main character Trish.
1. Personality
Trish is boring, unlikable, self-centered, body obsessed, a gossip, judgemental, a bigot, discriminatory, passive aggressive, self-loathing, self-pitying, and basically, a bitch.
Every single person she encounters, she thinks something derogatory about them. She judge's their appearance, and looks down on them for their values and habits.
The character will say one thing but think another. How on Earth can that not be completely draining to read about???
2. Lifestyle
Trish is obsessed with her weight. She starves herself, and will only eat certain things. She has an ugly habit of pointing overweight individuals when describing them.
She keeps having on and off again relationships with men who don't respect her.
She is, as the author puts it, filthy rich. She judges other people who aren't. She makes a point to say what kind of clothes and shoes she wears. She makes a point to say she drives a Lexus. She makes a point to describe what other people aren't wearing, how they style their hair wrong, and what they aren't driving. If you don't fit the description of what Trish is, then you aren't good enough.
Ms. Barrett:
The small town and surrounding towns in this village you've described has more than Chinese food. I'm sure they have Japanese, Thai, Korean, and other ASIAN selections. Maybe not. Possibly not in your smallminded little world.
And the straw that broke the camel's back- Judging someone poorly because they were raised by a single parent is offensive. It's time you entered the 21st century and realized most of the people on this planet are raised by a variety of individuals. Using words like despite being raised by a single mother, he turned out okay.
Your descriptions of what goes through Trish's mind, are truly a detriment to your capabilities as a writer.
1. Personality
Trish is boring, unlikable, self-centered, body obsessed, a gossip, judgemental, a bigot, discriminatory, passive aggressive, self-loathing, self-pitying, and basically, a bitch.
Every single person she encounters, she thinks something derogatory about them. She judge's their appearance, and looks down on them for their values and habits.
The character will say one thing but think another. How on Earth can that not be completely draining to read about???
2. Lifestyle
Trish is obsessed with her weight. She starves herself, and will only eat certain things. She has an ugly habit of pointing overweight individuals when describing them.
She keeps having on and off again relationships with men who don't respect her.
She is, as the author puts it, filthy rich. She judges other people who aren't. She makes a point to say what kind of clothes and shoes she wears. She makes a point to say she drives a Lexus. She makes a point to describe what other people aren't wearing, how they style their hair wrong, and what they aren't driving. If you don't fit the description of what Trish is, then you aren't good enough.
Ms. Barrett:
The small town and surrounding towns in this village you've described has more than Chinese food. I'm sure they have Japanese, Thai, Korean, and other ASIAN selections. Maybe not. Possibly not in your smallminded little world.
And the straw that broke the camel's back- Judging someone poorly because they were raised by a single parent is offensive. It's time you entered the 21st century and realized most of the people on this planet are raised by a variety of individuals. Using words like despite being raised by a single mother, he turned out okay.
Your descriptions of what goes through Trish's mind, are truly a detriment to your capabilities as a writer.
March 17, 2014
When did Trish become so unlikeable? And really another body found on a toilet? What is up with that?
July 25, 2013
Don't think I will read this author again - the main character is so uptight and boring - stiff. Don't like the story line anymore.
July 1, 2013
This seventh novel in the mystery series known as 'a Booktown Mystery,' continues to astound me as it continues to gather momentum with each volume published.
Tricia Miles, owner of 'Haven't A Clue' bookstore, in Stoneham, New Hampshire, is dealing with her ex-husband, Christopher Benson, current on-off again boyfriend, Police Chief Baker, and her sister, Angelica Miles who is attempting to become the President of the Chamber of Commerce for Stoneham. It is also nearing Thanksgiving, the Christmas Holidays, and her best friend, Ginny's up-coming wedding.
What else can cause additional angst? Why, of course, Tricia's finding the corpse of Stan Berry, the only other contender for the C of C's Presidency. As this election heats up, so does the search for the killer. Can it be as simple as Angelica or the current Chamber's President, Bob wanting the competition out of the way? Or is it an unknown relative wanting the estate? Or???
I was surprised, myself, and truly can say...the killer was 'Not The Killing Type!' I was given this novel proof as a gift from the author to me as a friendship gift. I just had to write this review as I'm truly a fan of this series, and seem to grow more invested in the mysteries as the stories become more quick-paced, intricate, and the characters become more fully developed. I can honestly say...this is the best volume in the series to date....Now, when is the next one due out???
Tricia Miles, owner of 'Haven't A Clue' bookstore, in Stoneham, New Hampshire, is dealing with her ex-husband, Christopher Benson, current on-off again boyfriend, Police Chief Baker, and her sister, Angelica Miles who is attempting to become the President of the Chamber of Commerce for Stoneham. It is also nearing Thanksgiving, the Christmas Holidays, and her best friend, Ginny's up-coming wedding.
What else can cause additional angst? Why, of course, Tricia's finding the corpse of Stan Berry, the only other contender for the C of C's Presidency. As this election heats up, so does the search for the killer. Can it be as simple as Angelica or the current Chamber's President, Bob wanting the competition out of the way? Or is it an unknown relative wanting the estate? Or???
I was surprised, myself, and truly can say...the killer was 'Not The Killing Type!' I was given this novel proof as a gift from the author to me as a friendship gift. I just had to write this review as I'm truly a fan of this series, and seem to grow more invested in the mysteries as the stories become more quick-paced, intricate, and the characters become more fully developed. I can honestly say...this is the best volume in the series to date....Now, when is the next one due out???
May 23, 2018
Discrimination
In “Not the Killing Type” a character is discribed as having a sick fascination for super-sized women or that it’s a fetish. I’m saddened by this attitude towards obese women, it suggests that large people are disgusting looking, unloveable and those who are attracted to them are sick Or have a fetish.
I’ve read more than six of her books and enjoyed them immensely. I can’t finish this book or read any other books. We large people are attractive to partners, loved, cherished and valued. I’m saddened by this portrayal of men who are attracted to large women, and the implication that large women are unattractive.
In “Not the Killing Type” a character is discribed as having a sick fascination for super-sized women or that it’s a fetish. I’m saddened by this attitude towards obese women, it suggests that large people are disgusting looking, unloveable and those who are attracted to them are sick Or have a fetish.
I’ve read more than six of her books and enjoyed them immensely. I can’t finish this book or read any other books. We large people are attractive to partners, loved, cherished and valued. I’m saddened by this portrayal of men who are attracted to large women, and the implication that large women are unattractive.
June 4, 2019
This is the most mean spirited cozy series I've ever read.
April 12, 2017
I honestly do not know how this book has so many good reviews.
Tricia is just as nasty and meanspirited in this book as she is in the previous ones. She treats Fanny terribly. It is apparent that the author ( who created Fanny as a likable character) now wants us to see her as a gossip. Even is she was, there is no reason whatever for Tricia to speak to her as she does.
At the end of the novel, there was no reason at all for Tricia to approach the supposed suspect. She also should not have lied to Will. The author does everything to further the her need to allow Tricia to be meddlesome. It does not show any qualities of decency in Tricia. She is horrible anyway and seemingly past the point of becoming anything other than a tiresome, meddling know it all.
The way she and her sister demeaned the large women in the magazine was sickening. Even if they did not like what they saw there, I winced for any larger ladies they may have been reading this book.
These are truly awful people, that is the one thing that there is no mystery about.
Tricia is just as nasty and meanspirited in this book as she is in the previous ones. She treats Fanny terribly. It is apparent that the author ( who created Fanny as a likable character) now wants us to see her as a gossip. Even is she was, there is no reason whatever for Tricia to speak to her as she does.
At the end of the novel, there was no reason at all for Tricia to approach the supposed suspect. She also should not have lied to Will. The author does everything to further the her need to allow Tricia to be meddlesome. It does not show any qualities of decency in Tricia. She is horrible anyway and seemingly past the point of becoming anything other than a tiresome, meddling know it all.
The way she and her sister demeaned the large women in the magazine was sickening. Even if they did not like what they saw there, I winced for any larger ladies they may have been reading this book.
These are truly awful people, that is the one thing that there is no mystery about.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2014
I can't get enough of this wonderful series! I would love to live in Stoneham.
June 12, 2018
I've read many Mysteries that are easy reads so sometimes I don't expect a lot. Unfortunately with this novel I found that another draft or two really would have made a difference. There are number of stumbling blocks in the language that caused me pause, and as other readers have commented, the protagonist, Tricia is very rude and extremely judgmental. There are times where she's almost likeable but overall she's really not a really nice person, even when dealing with her sister, doing the right thing come second to whatever she wants to do. There us a focus on calories, fat content, and size comparison of the women that hints toward an eating disorder. although, there is a plot reason for this, it's not well executed and it is weak.
There were a lot of characters and I found them hard to distinguish, maybe because I haven't read the earlier books in the series. I found the shop assistant to to be stereotypically and superficially drawn, and a lot of her dialogue was stilted and seemed more like what the author thought people of that socio-economic class would say rather than having done some research and actually talking - or listening - to people.
The ending was sad but did pull together some pieces of the story. There was a twists that seemed weak. Ultimately, it was Tricia's self-centered drive that caused the tragedy at the end.
Overall, it really bothers me that I have quickly seen two entries from the author giving her own book five stars and I don't think that's ethucal. I haven't looked through all of the entries to see how often the author rates her own books, but to countert-act her ratings I have changed mine from 2 stars to 1 star.
There were a lot of characters and I found them hard to distinguish, maybe because I haven't read the earlier books in the series. I found the shop assistant to to be stereotypically and superficially drawn, and a lot of her dialogue was stilted and seemed more like what the author thought people of that socio-economic class would say rather than having done some research and actually talking - or listening - to people.
The ending was sad but did pull together some pieces of the story. There was a twists that seemed weak. Ultimately, it was Tricia's self-centered drive that caused the tragedy at the end.
Overall, it really bothers me that I have quickly seen two entries from the author giving her own book five stars and I don't think that's ethucal. I haven't looked through all of the entries to see how often the author rates her own books, but to countert-act her ratings I have changed mine from 2 stars to 1 star.
September 12, 2019
This one definitely had more offensive content than previously. The main character Trisha has always been weight obsessed which is very realistic in my opinion. Her sister is a snob but I really enjoy her character.
The offensiveness was definitely for anyone who struggles with weight as this one centers around a man who dies and they find a magazine called Chubby Chasers in his house. There is sexual assault and fetish in this one that is definitely different from her other novels.
I can definitely understand why people were offended. As someone who struggles with weight I used to get offended by people who were rude about obesity. Yes Trisha makes some comments that are typical for a woman who is obsessive about her own weight. If anything I think it is a comment on Trishas psyche and personal problems. This novel started to delve deeper into Trisha's past and her past hurts. She has some very deep wounds. She isnt a perfect character and I think that is why I still find these books appealing. Like an onion we are learning more about Trisha. She has a knack for solving crime, she obviously cares about people, though she let's prejudices and judgement cloud her view at times but then she admits when she is wrong. She is learning.
Overall I have fallen for this little town. I love the personal stories. The writing is a little cheesey and dry at times but it's a cute cozy mystery series that is a nice break from reality.
The offensiveness was definitely for anyone who struggles with weight as this one centers around a man who dies and they find a magazine called Chubby Chasers in his house. There is sexual assault and fetish in this one that is definitely different from her other novels.
I can definitely understand why people were offended. As someone who struggles with weight I used to get offended by people who were rude about obesity. Yes Trisha makes some comments that are typical for a woman who is obsessive about her own weight. If anything I think it is a comment on Trishas psyche and personal problems. This novel started to delve deeper into Trisha's past and her past hurts. She has some very deep wounds. She isnt a perfect character and I think that is why I still find these books appealing. Like an onion we are learning more about Trisha. She has a knack for solving crime, she obviously cares about people, though she let's prejudices and judgement cloud her view at times but then she admits when she is wrong. She is learning.
Overall I have fallen for this little town. I love the personal stories. The writing is a little cheesey and dry at times but it's a cute cozy mystery series that is a nice break from reality.
December 19, 2022
I really liked this series even if it had low key fatphobia throughout. This one was simply appalling though. (The worst examples: referring to a human being as a mammoth, assuming overweight women are desperate and have never experienced male interest, jokes about needing two zebra rugs for a fat woman to lay on.) The disgust for fat women laced every word of this book. I regret every single minute I've spent reading this series since it's clear the author doesn't see me as a person.
May 31, 2014
I adore this series - more to come
March 20, 2022
3.5 stars
Tricia’s sister Angelica is running for Chamber of Commerce president to replace realtor Bob Kelly, who has been the president for a long time. Unfortunately, on a break during the meeting, the third candidate, Stan, is found (by Tricia, of course!) murdered on the toilet! Obvious suspects are Bob and Angelica, but Tricia wants to prove otherwise.
I’m still enjoying this series. I like most of the characters. I learned that Tricia is a bit of a “scrooge” (my word/description) when it comes to Christmas decorations. (But then, I like lots of decorations; maybe people who like simple, plain, understated Christmas decos would disagree!) The premise of such a small town with such niche stores (even with tourists to support them), seems unlikely to me (having grown up in a small town where there was no book store at all, let alone niche bookstores!), but that’s ok – the stores weren’t the focus of this book, anyway. I listened to the audio and it was good; it kept my attention.
Tricia’s sister Angelica is running for Chamber of Commerce president to replace realtor Bob Kelly, who has been the president for a long time. Unfortunately, on a break during the meeting, the third candidate, Stan, is found (by Tricia, of course!) murdered on the toilet! Obvious suspects are Bob and Angelica, but Tricia wants to prove otherwise.
I’m still enjoying this series. I like most of the characters. I learned that Tricia is a bit of a “scrooge” (my word/description) when it comes to Christmas decorations. (But then, I like lots of decorations; maybe people who like simple, plain, understated Christmas decos would disagree!) The premise of such a small town with such niche stores (even with tourists to support them), seems unlikely to me (having grown up in a small town where there was no book store at all, let alone niche bookstores!), but that’s ok – the stores weren’t the focus of this book, anyway. I listened to the audio and it was good; it kept my attention.
August 30, 2022
4 stelle risicate
E' un pezzo che non leggevo nulla di questa serie: mentre mi piace molto l'ambientazione in un villaggio incentrato du librerie specializzate, ho trovato che in questo libro la narrazione fosse troppo incentrata sulle sfortune amorose della protagonista, sulle quali non commento altrimenti. Per quanto riguarda il giallo, avevo ben presto puntato sulla persona che la protagonista addita come colpevole alla fine: abbiamo sbagliato entrambe, ma il motivo dietro l'omicidio e che fosse comunque coinvolta la persona da noi additata erano abbastanzi ovvi. Detto questo, qui siamo di fronte a uno di quei casi in cui sei portato a simpatizzare con l'assassino più che con la vittima.
E' un pezzo che non leggevo nulla di questa serie: mentre mi piace molto l'ambientazione in un villaggio incentrato du librerie specializzate, ho trovato che in questo libro la narrazione fosse troppo incentrata sulle sfortune amorose della protagonista, sulle quali non commento altrimenti. Per quanto riguarda il giallo, avevo ben presto puntato sulla persona che la protagonista addita come colpevole alla fine: abbiamo sbagliato entrambe, ma il motivo dietro l'omicidio e che fosse comunque coinvolta la persona da noi additata erano abbastanzi ovvi. Detto questo, qui siamo di fronte a uno di quei casi in cui sei portato a simpatizzare con l'assassino più che con la vittima.
February 10, 2025
Ugh 9+ hours I won't get back of my life. At half way I only wanted to commit to see if it was going to turn out as bad as other reviewers alluded to.
And yes it did...
Trisha is once again in the midst of a murder in their small picturesque town. Her sister decides to run for Chamber of Commerce President and a competitor is found dead...on a toilet.
Fat shaming, eating lettuce leaves, and drinking watered down drinks seem to be the basis for a lot of these two conversation the last half of the book. Very little lead up and story development happens before we find out the who-dun-it.
The narrator does nothing to inspire these characters...or maybe that's the point?
And yes it did...
Trisha is once again in the midst of a murder in their small picturesque town. Her sister decides to run for Chamber of Commerce President and a competitor is found dead...on a toilet.
Fat shaming, eating lettuce leaves, and drinking watered down drinks seem to be the basis for a lot of these two conversation the last half of the book. Very little lead up and story development happens before we find out the who-dun-it.
The narrator does nothing to inspire these characters...or maybe that's the point?
July 11, 2013
November in Stoneham means a Chamber of Commerce election. The members have gathered at the Brookview Inn to cast their votes. This year is different because Bob Kelly actually has opposition. Both Tricia’s sister, Angelica and local small business owner Stan Berry are running against the long time president. But before the election can even take place the ballot shrinks to just two contenders. During a short break Tricia finds Stan Berry dead just down the hall from the meeting room. The murder weapon is a letter opener belonging to the hotel’s receptionist. Tricia can’t believe that sweet woman could kill anyone.
So now in addition to helping Angelica win an election Tricia has to track down a killer. Could it be someone she knows? She barely knew the victim but someone not only wanted him off the ballot but permanently voted out. With a hotel full of suspects she has her work cut out for her…
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Murder on the Half Shelf really left us hanging with Tricia’s ex back in town. This story didn’t pick up exactly where that one left off but Christopher is sure bringing a bit of strife to Tricia’s life. Also complicating her life is a new man in town and her on and off relationship with Police Chief Baker. Hard to keep this relationship going with Tricia so close to all these investigations.
Add to this her friend Ginny’s wedding with a planner I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, the Chamber election, the holidays with Pixie’s decorating ideas and another murder this story becomes one you just can’t put down.
Lorna Barrett has given us one of her best with this installment. I love this series and each one is better than the last and the first one was excellent. If this series is new to you start at the beginning and enjoy every one. Fans of this series will fall for the residents of Stoneham, New Hampshire all over again.
So now in addition to helping Angelica win an election Tricia has to track down a killer. Could it be someone she knows? She barely knew the victim but someone not only wanted him off the ballot but permanently voted out. With a hotel full of suspects she has her work cut out for her…
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Murder on the Half Shelf really left us hanging with Tricia’s ex back in town. This story didn’t pick up exactly where that one left off but Christopher is sure bringing a bit of strife to Tricia’s life. Also complicating her life is a new man in town and her on and off relationship with Police Chief Baker. Hard to keep this relationship going with Tricia so close to all these investigations.
Add to this her friend Ginny’s wedding with a planner I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy, the Chamber election, the holidays with Pixie’s decorating ideas and another murder this story becomes one you just can’t put down.
Lorna Barrett has given us one of her best with this installment. I love this series and each one is better than the last and the first one was excellent. If this series is new to you start at the beginning and enjoy every one. Fans of this series will fall for the residents of Stoneham, New Hampshire all over again.
June 24, 2013
Not the Killing Type is the seventh book in the Booktown Mystery series.
The Stoneham Chamber of Commerce is having their election for President. Angelica has decided to throw her hat into the ring against her former boyfriend, Bob Kelly. Then local sign maker Stan Berry adds his name. A break is taken before the vote and Tricia heads to the restroom and finds Stan dead, a victim of a stabbing.
What with Black Friday coming up soon and the wedding of Ginny and Antonio, Tricia hardly has time to take on an investigation. But with Angelica being looked at with interest in the murder, she and Tricia need to be out campaigning, so she can upset Bob.
Most all the regulars are back. Christopher, Tricia's ex, is back and making a pain of himself. Pixie, Tricia's ex-hooker salesperson, is here providing some humor. New to the series is Stan Berry, Jr., the son of the victim, who seems to getting to know Tricia better.
Another great addition to the series. I feel that Tricia has decided to become a stronger person in her personal life and Angelica seems to be a little more considerate to her sister.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
The Stoneham Chamber of Commerce is having their election for President. Angelica has decided to throw her hat into the ring against her former boyfriend, Bob Kelly. Then local sign maker Stan Berry adds his name. A break is taken before the vote and Tricia heads to the restroom and finds Stan dead, a victim of a stabbing.
What with Black Friday coming up soon and the wedding of Ginny and Antonio, Tricia hardly has time to take on an investigation. But with Angelica being looked at with interest in the murder, she and Tricia need to be out campaigning, so she can upset Bob.
Most all the regulars are back. Christopher, Tricia's ex, is back and making a pain of himself. Pixie, Tricia's ex-hooker salesperson, is here providing some humor. New to the series is Stan Berry, Jr., the son of the victim, who seems to getting to know Tricia better.
Another great addition to the series. I feel that Tricia has decided to become a stronger person in her personal life and Angelica seems to be a little more considerate to her sister.
Looking forward to the next book in the series.
Read
September 4, 2022I have read several of Lorna Barrett’s Booktown cozy mystery series in the past, so was happy to return to the fictional village full of bookstores (what kind of a dream town would that be?) with Not the Killing Type, book #7 in the series. So nice to get back to Tricia, her employees Mr. Everett and Pixie, and of course her cat, Miss Marple in the Haven’t Got a Clue mystery bookstore.
Of course Tricia has again stumbled over the body of the newly-deceased and is once again at the center of the mystery, trying to figure out whodunnit at the same time as helping sister Angelica with her election campaign and preparing for the Black Friday sale. The characters are familiar and fun and I really wish I could go visit the bookstore!
*One warning note, however: I did find a fat-phobic/fat-shaming subplot in this volume that rather surprised me. I don’t remember running across anything like that in any of the other books in the series. It’s not a big part of the book, but be prepared if that might bother you.
Of course Tricia has again stumbled over the body of the newly-deceased and is once again at the center of the mystery, trying to figure out whodunnit at the same time as helping sister Angelica with her election campaign and preparing for the Black Friday sale. The characters are familiar and fun and I really wish I could go visit the bookstore!
*One warning note, however: I did find a fat-phobic/fat-shaming subplot in this volume that rather surprised me. I don’t remember running across anything like that in any of the other books in the series. It’s not a big part of the book, but be prepared if that might bother you.
November 11, 2013
The story continues in this latest Booktown mystery. I've enjoyed all the books so far. That said, for some reason Tricia, the series' sleuth seemed very stuffy in this one. Indeed, in the book she is accused of being stuffy. She needs to let go more and let her inner child out. Her ex-husband is back in town and trying to woo her back, her police chief love interest seems detached and they do end up breaking up but he seems jealous of her ex and another younger character. The Chamber of Commerce is having an election. Bob Kelly, the incumbent is running against Tricia's sister, Angelica. The other candidate is found dead in the restroom of the inn where the the meeting was taking place and Tricia discovers the body...again. She is noted as the town jinx as she seems to be always coming across bodies. The book has a few twists and overall was a great read. I hope that we get to know the identity of Nigella Ricita who is the mystery character behind the scenes.
July 2, 2013
Review Based on Advance Reading Copy
This is the seventh in the Booktown Mystery Series.
Tricia's life seems to be getting more complicated as the town starts to get ready for Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Christmas. She is dealing with on again - off again boyfriend Chief Baker, her ex-husband Christopher Benson who has come to Stoneham and now a new man is interested in her, or is he?
As well as Ginny's upcoming Wedding and her assistant Pixie wanting to dress up the store for the holidays.
The town of Stoneham is getting ready to elect a new President of the Chamber of Commerce. Will it be Bob who has held the position for years, Tricia's sister Angelica or Stan Berry.
Once again a body is found and it is Tricia again that finds it. One problem ,the body is Stan Berry. Now what will Tricia do!?
The ending took me totally by surprise, not at all what I expected.
This is the seventh in the Booktown Mystery Series.
Tricia's life seems to be getting more complicated as the town starts to get ready for Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Christmas. She is dealing with on again - off again boyfriend Chief Baker, her ex-husband Christopher Benson who has come to Stoneham and now a new man is interested in her, or is he?
As well as Ginny's upcoming Wedding and her assistant Pixie wanting to dress up the store for the holidays.
The town of Stoneham is getting ready to elect a new President of the Chamber of Commerce. Will it be Bob who has held the position for years, Tricia's sister Angelica or Stan Berry.
Once again a body is found and it is Tricia again that finds it. One problem ,the body is Stan Berry. Now what will Tricia do!?
The ending took me totally by surprise, not at all what I expected.
June 7, 2014
I think I only continue to read this series to find out if Tricia ever figures out her love life. I find the way she interacts with these men very immature. she never has a frank discussion but is often stoic or passive aggressive. the personality of the men seem to change from book to book. she's 40+ years old. why did she put up with bakers nonsense so long? it just aggravates me.
Tricia also has a quite a feeling of superiority about her. she often looks down on Pixie and others like the magazines she found. She could stand to learn what true kindness is.
the story line conclusion was a bit convoluted and dramatic. it was a mean thing to do to Chauncey.
Tricia also has a quite a feeling of superiority about her. she often looks down on Pixie and others like the magazines she found. She could stand to learn what true kindness is.
the story line conclusion was a bit convoluted and dramatic. it was a mean thing to do to Chauncey.
September 20, 2021
Three people are vying for the chance to be president of the Chamber of Commerce, but before the election can be held, one is dead. This mystery is a little darker than a lot of cozies, and more intense. Still, it’s about booksellers and life in the tourist town. Tricia is again playing at being an amateur detective, and her somewhat former boyfriend, a real detective, is more distant than usual. Tricia’s ex-husband is on the scene, and life is chaotic for all. I enjoy this series, flawed characters and all. My new favorite is Tricia’s new assistant Pixie, who brings a breath of fresh air to the series.
February 9, 2017
Oh my God! Now Tricia literally made someone commit suicide and she is still worried about how that makes her look!!! I hate this series!!! I hope fictional NH gets the Black Plague and everyone in that fictional town dies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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