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Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries #5
Murder at the Matterhorn
A brand-new cozy crime series set in gorgeous Tuscany...It's murder in paradise! An old friend in need… Despite being retired from the police, Dan Armstrong is always on hand to help with solving a crime. So, when he’s contacted by an old colleague in need of help, Dan readily agrees. The only problem Dan can see is the location – an isolated mountain-top campsite of UFO enthusiasts. An unexplained death... But these are no ordinary star watchers, and when Dan arrives one member of the group is already dead. Some of the group suspect alien abduction, but Dan is sure the killer is much closer to home. An out of this world case? Dan doesn’t believe in aliens, but faced with black hole of secrecy from the group of suspects, he and Oscar have their work cut out to catch the murderer…before they strike again. It's another case for Dan and Oscar to solve! A gripping new murder mystery series by bestselling author T.A. Williams, perfect for fans of Lee Strauss and Beth Byers. Praise for T.A. Williams! "The perfect combination of character, setting and plot, heralding an addictive new cozy mystery series!" Bestselling author Debbie Young. "Watching unassuming detective Dan Armstrong weddle the truth out of folks is great fun. Highly Entertaining read!" Bestselling author Kelly Oliver .
234 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 24, 2023
671 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Williams
46 books587 followersFirstly, my name isn't T A. It's Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 123 reviews
November 21, 2023
Publication Date: 24th Nov 2023
4 Stars
One Liner: A compact cozy mystery
Dan Armstrong gets a call from his former colleague asking for help. It seems a team of ufologists (UFO enthusiasts) are camping on an isolated mountain cap. There’s been a death, which looks much like murder. Dan agrees to help and joins the group as a fellow enthusiast.
Even though they think aliens are involved, Dan is sure the murder is the handiwork of a human and someone from the group or in the region. With Oscar by his side, Dan now has to play the interpreter and solve the crime with the local police. Can they find the killer before more deaths occur?
The story comes in Dan Armstrong’s first-person POV and works as a standalone.
My Thoughts:
As a reader of the series, I enjoyed this book as much as the previous ones. I’m also a believer in UFOs, though not like the characters here.
Being a cozy mystery, the focus is more on the crime and suspects rather than the technicalities of UFOs and science. Most of the content tends to be of a nonbeliever since it comes from Dan’s POV. However, he does his best to keep an open mind, which proves to be helpful.
Of course, a book set in Italy has to have a lovely setting and good food. This time, we tour the snow-capped mountains, the surrounding forest, and the autonomous village in the foothills. There is enough tea to satisfy a British reader and enough wine and food for the Italian reader.
The mystery is just right- neither simple nor complicated. One part is easy to solve, the other needs a bit of work but has a logical conclusion. We can guess who the killer is despite not knowing the reason.
Anna (Dan’s girlfriend), Virgilio and his wife, etc., have very minor roles. Dan and Oscar work with a different police team. And as Dan says, this one is indeed teamwork. Many people contribute, creating a more balanced approach. Inspector Costey is impressive. I hope we get to meet again.
Oscar does what he always does – makes puppy eyes at everyone, becomes popular with ladies, eats as much as he can get, and helps solve the case in his own way. No one can resist a cute lab, right?
The pacing is on the slower side, as it is with the series. However, the chapters are of moderate length and provide some sort of progress to keep the plot moving.
To summarize, Murder at the Matterhorn is an entertaining mystery and a good continuation of the series. Does it have aliens? Well, read the book to find out. ;)
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderattheMatterhorn
4 Stars
One Liner: A compact cozy mystery
Dan Armstrong gets a call from his former colleague asking for help. It seems a team of ufologists (UFO enthusiasts) are camping on an isolated mountain cap. There’s been a death, which looks much like murder. Dan agrees to help and joins the group as a fellow enthusiast.
Even though they think aliens are involved, Dan is sure the murder is the handiwork of a human and someone from the group or in the region. With Oscar by his side, Dan now has to play the interpreter and solve the crime with the local police. Can they find the killer before more deaths occur?
The story comes in Dan Armstrong’s first-person POV and works as a standalone.
My Thoughts:
As a reader of the series, I enjoyed this book as much as the previous ones. I’m also a believer in UFOs, though not like the characters here.
Being a cozy mystery, the focus is more on the crime and suspects rather than the technicalities of UFOs and science. Most of the content tends to be of a nonbeliever since it comes from Dan’s POV. However, he does his best to keep an open mind, which proves to be helpful.
Of course, a book set in Italy has to have a lovely setting and good food. This time, we tour the snow-capped mountains, the surrounding forest, and the autonomous village in the foothills. There is enough tea to satisfy a British reader and enough wine and food for the Italian reader.
The mystery is just right- neither simple nor complicated. One part is easy to solve, the other needs a bit of work but has a logical conclusion. We can guess who the killer is despite not knowing the reason.
Anna (Dan’s girlfriend), Virgilio and his wife, etc., have very minor roles. Dan and Oscar work with a different police team. And as Dan says, this one is indeed teamwork. Many people contribute, creating a more balanced approach. Inspector Costey is impressive. I hope we get to meet again.
Oscar does what he always does – makes puppy eyes at everyone, becomes popular with ladies, eats as much as he can get, and helps solve the case in his own way. No one can resist a cute lab, right?
The pacing is on the slower side, as it is with the series. However, the chapters are of moderate length and provide some sort of progress to keep the plot moving.
To summarize, Murder at the Matterhorn is an entertaining mystery and a good continuation of the series. Does it have aliens? Well, read the book to find out. ;)
Thank you, NetGalley and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderattheMatterhorn
March 7, 2025
Mīlīga atkalsatikšanās ar Denu un Oskaru. Šoreiz darbība risinās ufologu nometnē Itālijas Alpos, kur nogalināts kāds cilvēks. Neiztikt bez gardas ēšanas. Joprojām izbaudu šo vienkāršo cosy mystery sēriju.
November 4, 2023
I enjoyed this one especially as it was set in the Alps. The descriptions of the scenery was vivid and the story was pacey and kept me interested. Some of the characters were a little strange but, that added to the story. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
March 1, 2025
Pulling the plug on this series for now.
Sorry, I don't even want to describe this one as it involves a load of kooks who gather believing they are seeing evidence of extra terrestrial beings. The ex-detective and his Labrador have spent my patience. Ufologists, really?
It was only 99 cents from Amazon, so I went with it.
Sorry, I don't even want to describe this one as it involves a load of kooks who gather believing they are seeing evidence of extra terrestrial beings. The ex-detective and his Labrador have spent my patience. Ufologists, really?
It was only 99 cents from Amazon, so I went with it.
November 6, 2023
Three and a half stars.
Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine companion Oscar are asked by an old friend in Scotland Yard to assist his sister, she's been attending a two-week Ufologists camp near to Matterhorn looking for evidence of extraterrestrials but a fellow camp mate has died in suspicious circumstances and she thinks there is something weird going on. Dan agrees to pretend to have an interest in UFOs and at the same time offers his services to translate for the local police force as a bilingual native English speaker with the ufologists who are all British/American.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, I had my suspicions about the murderer almost from the start (well maybe midway through) but it came together well.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine companion Oscar are asked by an old friend in Scotland Yard to assist his sister, she's been attending a two-week Ufologists camp near to Matterhorn looking for evidence of extraterrestrials but a fellow camp mate has died in suspicious circumstances and she thinks there is something weird going on. Dan agrees to pretend to have an interest in UFOs and at the same time offers his services to translate for the local police force as a bilingual native English speaker with the ufologists who are all British/American.
I thoroughly enjoyed this, I had my suspicions about the murderer almost from the start (well maybe midway through) but it came together well.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
July 16, 2024
What a delightful series this is. One man and his dog but not a crime solving wonderdog, just a friendly companion black Labrador. We have recently been pet sitting one and can confirm everything that ex Met. Detective Chief Inspector now Private Investigator Dan says about his friend, is correct.
This story takes Dan and Oscar off to the mountains to the north at the request of his friend and still Met Inspector who is worried about his little sister who is currently camped out there with a group of Ufologists.
Dan and Oscar join the group under cover just after the body of one of the group is found.
This, like the others before it in the series, makes for very easy reading with Oscar and his relationship with his owner giving it an almost feel good factor as well as some humour. That and all the deliciously described food certainly won me over and even though there wasn't much for the armchair detective to get his teeth into, that didn't really matter.
This story takes Dan and Oscar off to the mountains to the north at the request of his friend and still Met Inspector who is worried about his little sister who is currently camped out there with a group of Ufologists.
Dan and Oscar join the group under cover just after the body of one of the group is found.
This, like the others before it in the series, makes for very easy reading with Oscar and his relationship with his owner giving it an almost feel good factor as well as some humour. That and all the deliciously described food certainly won me over and even though there wasn't much for the armchair detective to get his teeth into, that didn't really matter.
November 21, 2023
This cosy crime story takes us to the north of Italy, to the Matterhorn where out of this world happenings are on the agenda. Looking at the night sky is a group of varied characters who all have their own eccentricities. Dan Armstrong is drawn there because of a suspicious death. Welcomed by the local police, he is able to infiltrate the group and aid the police as a translator. There are lots of clues to follow and some colourful characters to investigate.
As usual, Oscar steals the show with his meaningful looks and ability to charm. There are some great descriptions of the local area and the delicacies which are available at the nearby eateries. There is a lot to discover about the backgrounds of the characters and how they may or may not know each other. Dan lets us in on his thoughts on the case, as he practises his investigative skills. There is a surprising denouement which makes for a satisfying read.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
As usual, Oscar steals the show with his meaningful looks and ability to charm. There are some great descriptions of the local area and the delicacies which are available at the nearby eateries. There is a lot to discover about the backgrounds of the characters and how they may or may not know each other. Dan lets us in on his thoughts on the case, as he practises his investigative skills. There is a surprising denouement which makes for a satisfying read.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
November 21, 2023
Retired Detective Dan Armstrong is back giving us a glimpse of the beautiful scenery in Tuscany where he lives and works as a private investigator.
A man is found dead in the Matterhorn region and Dan is asked by an old police colleague if he can attend the scene and find out more about the incident.
Dan agrees to help and takes along his trusty sidekick Oscar the labrador .
The group of people the man was with were trying to spot UFO activity .
Dan helps the local police by interpreting the groups responses to the police interviews and also learns the man was murdered.
The group contains a few suspects and any one of them could be the perpetrator.
The book is well written and easy to read.
The location is beautiful as always and I was kept guessing right until the end .
An enjoyable cosy mystery and I’m looking forward to the next case for Armstrong and Oscar.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
A man is found dead in the Matterhorn region and Dan is asked by an old police colleague if he can attend the scene and find out more about the incident.
Dan agrees to help and takes along his trusty sidekick Oscar the labrador .
The group of people the man was with were trying to spot UFO activity .
Dan helps the local police by interpreting the groups responses to the police interviews and also learns the man was murdered.
The group contains a few suspects and any one of them could be the perpetrator.
The book is well written and easy to read.
The location is beautiful as always and I was kept guessing right until the end .
An enjoyable cosy mystery and I’m looking forward to the next case for Armstrong and Oscar.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.
November 20, 2023
I love this series more with every installment! This is T.A. Williams’ fifth mystery featuring retired police commissioner Dan Armstrong and his faithful dog Oscar. Here Dan travels north from his home in Tuscany, to the Alps, to help an old friend, whose sister is camping with a group of UFOlogists. When their search for extraterrestrial life at the Matterhorn is interrupted by murder Dan agrees to infiltrate the group and aid as a translator. The unusual setting and events make for a great story. Dan meets some very interesting characters and the descriptions of food and the beauty of Italy are as vivid as in the previous books. Plus, Oscar is as charming as always! Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this book.
November 13, 2023
Not an unbiased review. Love the series and Oscar in particular!
Dan Armstrong retired after 30 years in the Murder Squad where his "pals" gave him the "gift" of a writers' retreat in Tuscany. Since then, he has become divorced, settled in to stay in Italy, made friends with some men in the local Polizia, adopted a Black Lab (Oscar), written a mystery that's recently been published, and made the acquaintance of a bilingual professor who seems to understand that you can take the man out of The Job but you can't take The Job out of the man.
While this is a cozy mystery, it is also something of a procedural because of personal involvement with the local police where they make use of his Italian/English translation abilities and he gathers information from his colleagues back in England. Fun, twisty, surprising, and definitely unputdownable! Great characters, good worldbuilding, very relatable, and no problem as a standalone.
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books courtesy of NetGalley. Thank you!
Dan Armstrong retired after 30 years in the Murder Squad where his "pals" gave him the "gift" of a writers' retreat in Tuscany. Since then, he has become divorced, settled in to stay in Italy, made friends with some men in the local Polizia, adopted a Black Lab (Oscar), written a mystery that's recently been published, and made the acquaintance of a bilingual professor who seems to understand that you can take the man out of The Job but you can't take The Job out of the man.
While this is a cozy mystery, it is also something of a procedural because of personal involvement with the local police where they make use of his Italian/English translation abilities and he gathers information from his colleagues back in England. Fun, twisty, surprising, and definitely unputdownable! Great characters, good worldbuilding, very relatable, and no problem as a standalone.
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books courtesy of NetGalley. Thank you!
December 9, 2023
Love this series, Dan and Oscar are the perfect investigating pair. This time between murder and UFO’s they are off on a jaunt to bring a killer or killers to justice.
January 12, 2024
3 1/2 stars. Fun and an easy read. A good break from major battle sagas, as much as i enjoy reading those with my brother :)
October 13, 2024
Nice, enjoyable mystery read.
November 27, 2023
Dan and Oscar make such a wonderful team and it’s been great being back in Italy with them. Murder at the Matterhorn is one of those cosy mysteries everyone needs to enjoy once in a while - fun characters, a beautiful if not harsh environment for a setting and enough of a mystery to keep you guessing. It’s an easy, read in one sitting kind of book but don’t let that put you off. It’s just what I needed after a long day at work.
September 4, 2025
I limit myself to one per month. I will finish this series and hope he continues to write more! Savoring. Dan is a retired detective that knows how to enjoy work, life, and incredible friends, food, scenery. The settings always thrill me. Cozy/destination mysteries for the win.
January 14, 2024
I've read all 5 of this series by T A Williams and just love them. Easy to read, well written and great stories.
November 6, 2023
Another fun Dan and Oliver book, this time set in the shadow of the Matterhorn. There is a murder and a brazen attack to solve, lots of beautiful scenery and a new cast of police character's and very wacky suspects. It was well written and usual and went along at a good pace. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 10, 2024
This one was very dull.
March 5, 2025
My least favorite so far! Think I'll wait a bit before I start another Murder in...
May 5, 2025
The ending beggared belief. What nonsense! Disappointed in this series.
July 8, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Murder at the Matterhorn is the fifth Armstrong and Oscar cozy destination mystery by T.A. Williams. Released 24th Nov 2023 by Boldwood Books, it's 234 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is a beautifully descriptive and well written destination mystery mostly set in and around Tuscany involving a group of UFO enthusiasts. Expat former policeman Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar are again called on to untangle a local murder/accident, which soon escalates into danger for the intrepid duo. Dan's ostensibly along to facilitate translations in English for the police and witnesses, but his insights are valuable and he and the local official investigation work well together.
The plotting is solid and the dialogue and characterizations are believable. The mystery, denouement, and resolution are self contained in this volume, so it works well enough as a standalone, but the writing is so engaging and immersive, that it would make an excellent weekend binge or buddy read. The author is exceptionally good at weaving (seemingly) extraneous information into the text. There's a lot of humor as well.
It's not derivative at all, but it reminded me in a lot of good ways of Leon's exceptional Brunetti books as well as Walker's lovely Bruno, chief of police books. Fans of those authors will find a lot to enjoy here.
Four and a half stars. Highly recommended. All of the books are exceptionally well written and fun. The author seems to be on a twice a year output schedule at the moment without sacrificing quality or length. Definitely one to pick up as they come out. There's an 8th book due out in Aug 2024 from the same publisher.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Murder at the Matterhorn is the fifth Armstrong and Oscar cozy destination mystery by T.A. Williams. Released 24th Nov 2023 by Boldwood Books, it's 234 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU.
This is a beautifully descriptive and well written destination mystery mostly set in and around Tuscany involving a group of UFO enthusiasts. Expat former policeman Dan Armstrong and his trusty canine sidekick Oscar are again called on to untangle a local murder/accident, which soon escalates into danger for the intrepid duo. Dan's ostensibly along to facilitate translations in English for the police and witnesses, but his insights are valuable and he and the local official investigation work well together.
The plotting is solid and the dialogue and characterizations are believable. The mystery, denouement, and resolution are self contained in this volume, so it works well enough as a standalone, but the writing is so engaging and immersive, that it would make an excellent weekend binge or buddy read. The author is exceptionally good at weaving (seemingly) extraneous information into the text. There's a lot of humor as well.
It's not derivative at all, but it reminded me in a lot of good ways of Leon's exceptional Brunetti books as well as Walker's lovely Bruno, chief of police books. Fans of those authors will find a lot to enjoy here.
Four and a half stars. Highly recommended. All of the books are exceptionally well written and fun. The author seems to be on a twice a year output schedule at the moment without sacrificing quality or length. Definitely one to pick up as they come out. There's an 8th book due out in Aug 2024 from the same publisher.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
November 24, 2023
A call from an ex-colleague worried about his daughter, part of a group of UFO enthusiasts camping in the Alps where a body has been found, sees Dan and Oscar leaving Tuscany for a while and going undercover, providing translation help (and, as always, a little more) to the local police. Although some of the group might believe it was the work of extra-terrestrials – fire at the site where the body was found, signs of a spaceship having landed, and plenty of lights in the night sky to excite the ufologists – the perpetrator is far more likely to be human.
And there are certainly plenty of suspects at the camp – the victim turns out to be known by several of them, and there are plenty who might have their reasons to be glad to see his end. And it’s quite a substantial cast of characters yielding those suspects – many of them distinctly quirky, others with hidden secrets, all quite wonderfully drawn individuals moving in and out of the frame in turn.
The police team is led by a heavily pregnant inspector who’s initially none too keen on Dan and Oscar’s involvement – but won over as they work more closely together, and she appreciates the advantages of having them on her side if she’s going to bring the investigation to a necessary early conclusion. Oscar, of course, sets about charming all the ladies in turn – while Dan, as always, usually has to work rather harder. And there’s also a part to be played by the supporting characters we’ve become familiar with in the earlier books in the series – paving the way, doing some background digging, helping piece the facts together.
The mountain setting is just wonderful – so vividly described, with its villages and landscape (with plenty of pine cones and sticks for Oscar), the nearby hotel and convent-cum-eatery extending the focus of the investigation and providing places to convene and regroup out of sight from the group (and also providing Oscar with opportunities to stave off any possibility of starvation – the local police chief ensuring Dan is frequently well fed too).
There are, as you’d expect, plenty of red herrings – some skullduggery and surprises along the way, but the expected satisfactory conclusion with identification of the villain I’d entirely failed to spot. And without spoiling the story, I really have to mention how very much I loved the scene at the book’s ending – the quite perfect touch!
Every book in this lovely series becomes my new favourite – and this one is certainly no exception. Sheer enjoyment from beginning to end, but with plenty of substance to the investigation to keep more dedicated mystery aficionados happy and make it a wholly compelling read – I really loved it, and hope we have many more books to come.
And there are certainly plenty of suspects at the camp – the victim turns out to be known by several of them, and there are plenty who might have their reasons to be glad to see his end. And it’s quite a substantial cast of characters yielding those suspects – many of them distinctly quirky, others with hidden secrets, all quite wonderfully drawn individuals moving in and out of the frame in turn.
The police team is led by a heavily pregnant inspector who’s initially none too keen on Dan and Oscar’s involvement – but won over as they work more closely together, and she appreciates the advantages of having them on her side if she’s going to bring the investigation to a necessary early conclusion. Oscar, of course, sets about charming all the ladies in turn – while Dan, as always, usually has to work rather harder. And there’s also a part to be played by the supporting characters we’ve become familiar with in the earlier books in the series – paving the way, doing some background digging, helping piece the facts together.
The mountain setting is just wonderful – so vividly described, with its villages and landscape (with plenty of pine cones and sticks for Oscar), the nearby hotel and convent-cum-eatery extending the focus of the investigation and providing places to convene and regroup out of sight from the group (and also providing Oscar with opportunities to stave off any possibility of starvation – the local police chief ensuring Dan is frequently well fed too).
There are, as you’d expect, plenty of red herrings – some skullduggery and surprises along the way, but the expected satisfactory conclusion with identification of the villain I’d entirely failed to spot. And without spoiling the story, I really have to mention how very much I loved the scene at the book’s ending – the quite perfect touch!
Every book in this lovely series becomes my new favourite – and this one is certainly no exception. Sheer enjoyment from beginning to end, but with plenty of substance to the investigation to keep more dedicated mystery aficionados happy and make it a wholly compelling read – I really loved it, and hope we have many more books to come.
November 30, 2023
Originally reviewed for Chick Lit Central (www.chicklitcentral.com)
It’s another fantastic read by T.A. Williams! The Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries series always has the best stories and unique plots, and this by far was one of the more unique plotlines. This time, Dan is tasked with digging deeper into a potential murder among UFO enthusiasts. Given the background of Tuscany and Dan’s prior mysteries, a reader would never suspect that Dan would find himself among ufologists, but he takes it all in stride. Despite not believing in UFOs, he has to make it appear as though he does in order to get to the bottom of things.
As always, there is a long list of potential suspects and Dan reflects on all of them, one by one, to ensure the reader is following right along with him. From the get go, we’re focused on certain possible perps, and I had a feeling it might be one person who appeared to be glaringly obvious, but then that lead didn’t pan out, only to have to follow a new lead to someone else…Murder at the Matterhorn really kept me on my toes, from start to finish, in order to discover the truth.
Oscar truly is the best! In one particular scene, when faced with possible tragedy and an injured character, Oscar literally lies next to the injured character in order to provide his own body heat. It was the sweetest, most touching gesture ever. A reader can’t help but feel more endeared to such a beautiful creature, and he really makes me appreciate my own dog all the more.
Usually, I read mysteries that are harder around the edges, with plenty of scary undertones, but there is comfort and warmth within this cozy mystery series. We still get the thrill of the chase, along with the suspense needed in order to keep us on the hook, but Dan and Oscar add a fantastic element that really rounds everything out. Not to mention T.A. Williams and his signature style for creating an incredible scenic backdrop that is always another character within his stories. I look forward to the next mystery for this dynamic duo to solve! It was a definite five-star experience for me.
It’s another fantastic read by T.A. Williams! The Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries series always has the best stories and unique plots, and this by far was one of the more unique plotlines. This time, Dan is tasked with digging deeper into a potential murder among UFO enthusiasts. Given the background of Tuscany and Dan’s prior mysteries, a reader would never suspect that Dan would find himself among ufologists, but he takes it all in stride. Despite not believing in UFOs, he has to make it appear as though he does in order to get to the bottom of things.
As always, there is a long list of potential suspects and Dan reflects on all of them, one by one, to ensure the reader is following right along with him. From the get go, we’re focused on certain possible perps, and I had a feeling it might be one person who appeared to be glaringly obvious, but then that lead didn’t pan out, only to have to follow a new lead to someone else…Murder at the Matterhorn really kept me on my toes, from start to finish, in order to discover the truth.
Oscar truly is the best! In one particular scene, when faced with possible tragedy and an injured character, Oscar literally lies next to the injured character in order to provide his own body heat. It was the sweetest, most touching gesture ever. A reader can’t help but feel more endeared to such a beautiful creature, and he really makes me appreciate my own dog all the more.
Usually, I read mysteries that are harder around the edges, with plenty of scary undertones, but there is comfort and warmth within this cozy mystery series. We still get the thrill of the chase, along with the suspense needed in order to keep us on the hook, but Dan and Oscar add a fantastic element that really rounds everything out. Not to mention T.A. Williams and his signature style for creating an incredible scenic backdrop that is always another character within his stories. I look forward to the next mystery for this dynamic duo to solve! It was a definite five-star experience for me.
June 12, 2024
MY RATING GUIDE: 4.5 Stars.
The Armstrong & Oscar Mysteries has been a favorite series since I first discovered it. I am pleased that bk5, MURDER AT THE MATTERHORN, kept me guessing and fully kept my interest until the end. I look forward to the next book.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT; 5= I LOVED THIS; IT WAS GREAT! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
The Italian Alps ~
Paul, Dan’s longtime friend and former partner from London’s Homicide Police Dept, calls Dan in Tuscany asking if he will look into a death which just occurred in the IT Alps - several hours distance away. Paul’s younger sister is at the location along with a UFO group. She notified Paul of what she believes is a suspicious death. Paul is concerned for his sister’s safety. Between cases at the time, Dan agrees to check out the situation and he and his dog, Oscar, head up into the Italian Alps to join the UFO gathering.
Comments ~
1) MURDER AT THE MATTERHORN is bk5 in William’s Armstrong & Oscar Italian Mystery series. Although certain characters and relationships have been developed in the earlier books, MATTERHORN could still be enjoyed as a standalone title. Armstrong & Oscar Mysteries are in the Cozy Mystery category but not silly. Since I discovered it, I have been enjoying this series immensely. It includes interesting commentary on the area & foods. It’s now among my favorite.
2) I love Simon Mattacks’ performances. He uses wonderful accents and a narrating style that rises this interesting series to a higher level (with good food, local interests, novel crimes and Oscar - the dog).
3) I highly recommend the Dan Armstrong mystery series to Cozy mystery readers and those who enjoy:
> British (English, Scottish or Wales) mystery series
> Character driven mysteries
> Clean mysteries (no profanity, on screen sexuality or graphic violence).
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Minimal, if any.
VIOLENCE - Minimal for a murder mystery.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
The Armstrong & Oscar Mysteries has been a favorite series since I first discovered it. I am pleased that bk5, MURDER AT THE MATTERHORN, kept me guessing and fully kept my interest until the end. I look forward to the next book.
1= dnf/What was that?; 2= Nope, not for me; 3= This was okay/cute; 3.5= I enjoyed it; 4= I LIKED THIS A LOT; 5= I LOVED THIS; IT WAS GREAT! (I seldom give 5 Stars).
The Italian Alps ~
Paul, Dan’s longtime friend and former partner from London’s Homicide Police Dept, calls Dan in Tuscany asking if he will look into a death which just occurred in the IT Alps - several hours distance away. Paul’s younger sister is at the location along with a UFO group. She notified Paul of what she believes is a suspicious death. Paul is concerned for his sister’s safety. Between cases at the time, Dan agrees to check out the situation and he and his dog, Oscar, head up into the Italian Alps to join the UFO gathering.
Comments ~
1) MURDER AT THE MATTERHORN is bk5 in William’s Armstrong & Oscar Italian Mystery series. Although certain characters and relationships have been developed in the earlier books, MATTERHORN could still be enjoyed as a standalone title. Armstrong & Oscar Mysteries are in the Cozy Mystery category but not silly. Since I discovered it, I have been enjoying this series immensely. It includes interesting commentary on the area & foods. It’s now among my favorite.
2) I love Simon Mattacks’ performances. He uses wonderful accents and a narrating style that rises this interesting series to a higher level (with good food, local interests, novel crimes and Oscar - the dog).
3) I highly recommend the Dan Armstrong mystery series to Cozy mystery readers and those who enjoy:
> British (English, Scottish or Wales) mystery series
> Character driven mysteries
> Clean mysteries (no profanity, on screen sexuality or graphic violence).
READER CAUTION ~
PROFANITY - Minimal, if any.
VIOLENCE - Minimal for a murder mystery.
SEXUAL SITUATIONS - None.
November 29, 2023
I’m always eager to read any new release from this author and this was no exception.
One of the things I love most about any T A Williams book, regardless of genre, is his ability to immerse you fully in the storyline and the location from the outset.
In this cozy crime mystery, the fifth in the series (although easily read as a stand-alone) and featuring former detective Dan Armstrong and his lovable Labrador Oscar, the action is set in the north of Italy where a murder has taken place during a ufologist convention in the mountains.
Despite the somewhat obscure alien theme, Williams expertly blends this naturally into the narrative. From Dan’s scepticism to the details of supposed sightings over the Matterhorn , the storyline is never overwhelmed by it, yet it lends a unique take on the murder and its suspects.
I think this is my favourite book of the series so far, perhaps because of its more unique setting and a part of Italy I am less familiar with. As always, the descriptions of the local dishes are tantalising and always make me want to try them for myself!
Oscar cannot help but steal the limelight in his own inimitable way and I especially loved the descriptions of Dan struggling to get him to sleep in his own bed, both in the camper-van and at the hotel.
I also particularly liked the character of Inspector Costey, from her hardened indifference at the outset on meeting Dan, to discovering not only her incredible work ethic but also her softer side as she got closer to the birth of her first child.
The great thing about this series is it keeps you second guessing about the possible motives and suspects. The twist at the end of this one was certainly unexpected!
A truly satisfying read.
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
One of the things I love most about any T A Williams book, regardless of genre, is his ability to immerse you fully in the storyline and the location from the outset.
In this cozy crime mystery, the fifth in the series (although easily read as a stand-alone) and featuring former detective Dan Armstrong and his lovable Labrador Oscar, the action is set in the north of Italy where a murder has taken place during a ufologist convention in the mountains.
Despite the somewhat obscure alien theme, Williams expertly blends this naturally into the narrative. From Dan’s scepticism to the details of supposed sightings over the Matterhorn , the storyline is never overwhelmed by it, yet it lends a unique take on the murder and its suspects.
I think this is my favourite book of the series so far, perhaps because of its more unique setting and a part of Italy I am less familiar with. As always, the descriptions of the local dishes are tantalising and always make me want to try them for myself!
Oscar cannot help but steal the limelight in his own inimitable way and I especially loved the descriptions of Dan struggling to get him to sleep in his own bed, both in the camper-van and at the hotel.
I also particularly liked the character of Inspector Costey, from her hardened indifference at the outset on meeting Dan, to discovering not only her incredible work ethic but also her softer side as she got closer to the birth of her first child.
The great thing about this series is it keeps you second guessing about the possible motives and suspects. The twist at the end of this one was certainly unexpected!
A truly satisfying read.
With thanks to the author, Rachel at Random Resources and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to participate in the tour.
December 8, 2023
‘Murder at the Matterhorn’ is the fifth book in the series and was a thoroughly engaging read that was out of this world! Although this is the fifth book in the Armstrong and Oscar mysteries it can be very easily read as a standalone. I do recommend reading the whole series though as I love them! Plus, you get swept away to Italy and there is a cute dog - what isn't there to love?!
Dan Armstrong is a retired Chief Inspector from the Met police but now resides in Tuscany Italy, where he runs a private investigative agency. When an old colleague and friend gets in touch saying his sister has been involved with a suspicious death whilst, on holiday in northern Italy, Dan jumps at the chance to help out. She is currently camped with a bunch of UFO enthusiasts, one of who has sadly died. Dan inserts himself into the group as a fellow enthusiast and then offers to translate for the police. Dan doesn't believe in aliens but he believes one of the group is responsible for the death. Will he find out who is it before anyone is killed?
I really like Dan being out of his comfort zone a wee bit and the change of location to the Alps in Northern Italy injected some freshness into the series! Not that is needed it though. But a change of scene is always lovely. The wackiness of the storyline was brilliant and I laughed a lot throughout the book! But when you boil it down to the bare bones you are really getting the classics of a crime investigation - lies, secrets and deception.
Once again I got very hungry reading this book as the author likes to throw in a lot of references to the local cuisine and it really whets the appetite! It was really easy to visualise what was occurring during this tale as the author thoroughly managed to encapsulate the location in his writing!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Dan Armstrong is a retired Chief Inspector from the Met police but now resides in Tuscany Italy, where he runs a private investigative agency. When an old colleague and friend gets in touch saying his sister has been involved with a suspicious death whilst, on holiday in northern Italy, Dan jumps at the chance to help out. She is currently camped with a bunch of UFO enthusiasts, one of who has sadly died. Dan inserts himself into the group as a fellow enthusiast and then offers to translate for the police. Dan doesn't believe in aliens but he believes one of the group is responsible for the death. Will he find out who is it before anyone is killed?
I really like Dan being out of his comfort zone a wee bit and the change of location to the Alps in Northern Italy injected some freshness into the series! Not that is needed it though. But a change of scene is always lovely. The wackiness of the storyline was brilliant and I laughed a lot throughout the book! But when you boil it down to the bare bones you are really getting the classics of a crime investigation - lies, secrets and deception.
Once again I got very hungry reading this book as the author likes to throw in a lot of references to the local cuisine and it really whets the appetite! It was really easy to visualise what was occurring during this tale as the author thoroughly managed to encapsulate the location in his writing!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
November 27, 2023
I had just finished reviewing a book by T. A. Williams and didn’t realise that I was reading another one by the same author. This is a compliment because these back-to-back readings were entirely different from each other. The previous one was a romance and this one is straight up who-dun-it. One thing is common though; the author’s hold on the reader’s attention through his narration.
The story is about a retired police officer, Dan Armstrong, who is now settled in Tuscany. He is called to help out in a murder investigation up in the Alps, right in the vicinity of the Matterhorn. A man, who was part of a UFO enthusiast group, has been murdered. Dan decides to do his bit and takes his dog, Oscar, along with him and together they set out to find more information about the dead man.
The story has a good pace and details are unravelled little by little but not once did I get bored. I love who-dun-its and I would categorise this as a casual police procedural. The beautiful descriptions of the place surrounding the Matterhorn instantly transported me there. That’s the highlight of the author’s narration – brilliant storytelling skills!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Amongst the beautiful writing and the scenic backdrop, one simply gets lost and is in a trance even after the book is done being read. An absolute must-read.
The story is about a retired police officer, Dan Armstrong, who is now settled in Tuscany. He is called to help out in a murder investigation up in the Alps, right in the vicinity of the Matterhorn. A man, who was part of a UFO enthusiast group, has been murdered. Dan decides to do his bit and takes his dog, Oscar, along with him and together they set out to find more information about the dead man.
The story has a good pace and details are unravelled little by little but not once did I get bored. I love who-dun-its and I would categorise this as a casual police procedural. The beautiful descriptions of the place surrounding the Matterhorn instantly transported me there. That’s the highlight of the author’s narration – brilliant storytelling skills!
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. Amongst the beautiful writing and the scenic backdrop, one simply gets lost and is in a trance even after the book is done being read. An absolute must-read.
November 19, 2023
Like Dan, I had to contain my scepticism for a fair amount of this book, as he helps the police investigate a murder at an encampment of UFO enthusiasts. For those at the camp are utterly convinced that it was an accidental killing, caused by an alien rocket ship backfiring, and the dead person just being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
Thankfully the evidence doesn't support that theory but instead leads us to meeting a whole group of rather interesting folk, of which I could of obvious looking suspects emerge fairly fast.
Was nice seeing Dan and Oscar away from their beloved Tuscany and instead up in the mountains this time, with a new police team being helped too.
And Oscar is as fabulous as always, able to put especially the ladies at ease, allowing Dan to try to get to know the truth.
I am loving how every book so far in this series feels quite different and seeing Dan and Oscar being able to travel and be in new situations will help keep this fresh for books to come. Of course the series regulars are present too, just not front and centre.
This is another fabulous addition to the series, and one I hope keeps going for a long while.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Thankfully the evidence doesn't support that theory but instead leads us to meeting a whole group of rather interesting folk, of which I could of obvious looking suspects emerge fairly fast.
Was nice seeing Dan and Oscar away from their beloved Tuscany and instead up in the mountains this time, with a new police team being helped too.
And Oscar is as fabulous as always, able to put especially the ladies at ease, allowing Dan to try to get to know the truth.
I am loving how every book so far in this series feels quite different and seeing Dan and Oscar being able to travel and be in new situations will help keep this fresh for books to come. Of course the series regulars are present too, just not front and centre.
This is another fabulous addition to the series, and one I hope keeps going for a long while.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 25, 2023
OSCAT, THE ITALIAN ALPS, AND SIMON MATTACKS! WHAT COULD BE BETTER?!
I love this wonderful Cozy Mystery Series! But if you're just now finding it, it won't matter if you start with this one, as it is a stand alone and Mr. Williams will catch you up enough to follow along. You'll probably like it so much you'll go back and start at book #1 where Dan and Oscar have their cute meet and the start of their "happy ever after". That's not really a spoiler because Oscar is the most adorable Labrador Retriever.
If you have ever been near one of these lovable, smart, forever- toddlers, you know that the only thing to do is to fall instantly and forevermore in love. Oscar delivers the comic relief all the time, right on cue.
Throughout the series, the fabulous actor and voice actor extraordinaire, Simon Mattacks, gives such a fabulous narration, you'll feel like you're listening to a movie with a whole cast of actors. His accents and individualization of characters is simply the best, and he embodies Dan Armstrong!
I do hope the series makes it to the small screen.
In the meanwhile, treat yourself to a listen, or at least grab this book. It's the perfect book for relaxing when your life gets to be too busy.
I love this wonderful Cozy Mystery Series! But if you're just now finding it, it won't matter if you start with this one, as it is a stand alone and Mr. Williams will catch you up enough to follow along. You'll probably like it so much you'll go back and start at book #1 where Dan and Oscar have their cute meet and the start of their "happy ever after". That's not really a spoiler because Oscar is the most adorable Labrador Retriever.
If you have ever been near one of these lovable, smart, forever- toddlers, you know that the only thing to do is to fall instantly and forevermore in love. Oscar delivers the comic relief all the time, right on cue.
Throughout the series, the fabulous actor and voice actor extraordinaire, Simon Mattacks, gives such a fabulous narration, you'll feel like you're listening to a movie with a whole cast of actors. His accents and individualization of characters is simply the best, and he embodies Dan Armstrong!
I do hope the series makes it to the small screen.
In the meanwhile, treat yourself to a listen, or at least grab this book. It's the perfect book for relaxing when your life gets to be too busy.
May 2, 2024
It’s always a pleasure to spend time with retired inspector and now private investigator in Florence, Italy, Dan Armstrong and his black Lab, Oscar. Murder at the Matterhorn is no exception. This is the fifth book in the cozy series by T.A. Williams and Dan and Oscar are helping investigate the death of a man who was with a group of UFO aficionados near the Matterhorn in the Italian Alps.
The setting of this book is stellar and I found myself salivating as the author described many of the meals Dan and Oscar enjoy. As you can imagine, the characters are varied and the plot is solid. Plus, Oscar gives this series added flair and light humor.
It is rare for me to be able to discern the guilty party but this time I did have a pretty good idea of who was involved. Murder at the Matterhorn is, for the most part, a well-written police procedural, rather than an overly complicated mystery.
I’ve enjoyed all of the books in this series, but this particular book isn’t my favorite. I think it’s probably due to the subject matter. I don’t find UFO-related stories all that compelling. Nevertheless, it’s definitely an enjoyable book and I’m looking forward to more adventures with Dan and Oscar. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
The setting of this book is stellar and I found myself salivating as the author described many of the meals Dan and Oscar enjoy. As you can imagine, the characters are varied and the plot is solid. Plus, Oscar gives this series added flair and light humor.
It is rare for me to be able to discern the guilty party but this time I did have a pretty good idea of who was involved. Murder at the Matterhorn is, for the most part, a well-written police procedural, rather than an overly complicated mystery.
I’ve enjoyed all of the books in this series, but this particular book isn’t my favorite. I think it’s probably due to the subject matter. I don’t find UFO-related stories all that compelling. Nevertheless, it’s definitely an enjoyable book and I’m looking forward to more adventures with Dan and Oscar. NetGalley provided an advance copy.
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