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Seacastle Mysteries #3
Fatal Tribute
Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist, agrees to interview the contestants of the National Talent Competition for the local newspaper, but finds herself up to her neck in secrets, sabotage and simmering resentment. The tensions increase when her condescending sister comes to stay next door for the duration of the contest.
Hunter Dorman, the rising star on the circuit is tipped to win the competition, but old stager, Lance Emerald, is not going down without a fight. When Lance is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the murderer but complex dynamics between the contestants and fraught family relationships make the mystery harder to solve. In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, Tanya finds herself out of her depth in the cut-throat world of Talent competitions. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
Hunter Dorman, the rising star on the circuit is tipped to win the competition, but old stager, Lance Emerald, is not going down without a fight. When Lance is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the murderer but complex dynamics between the contestants and fraught family relationships make the mystery harder to solve. In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, Tanya finds herself out of her depth in the cut-throat world of Talent competitions. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
- GenresMystery
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 13, 2023
251 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Skinner
28 books69 followersPJ Skinner was born in Guildford, one of seven siblings. When she was six, the family moved to Ireland where she attended school. She went to Trinity College, Dublin University, graduating as a geologist. After graduation, PJ spent 35 years working in over thirty countries as an exploration geologist. PJ worked in many remote, strange, and often dangerous places, and loved every minute, despite encountering her fair share of misogyny and other perils. During this time, she collected the tall tales and real-life experiences which inspired her to write the Sam Harris Adventure Series. The series chronicles the adventures of a pioneering female geologist in an almost exclusively male world.
After finishing the Sam Harris Adventure series, PJ's childhood in Ireland inspired her to write the Green Family Saga, which follows the fortunes of an English family who move to Ireland just before the start of the Troubles, under the name of Kate Foley.
PJ moved to the south coast of England just before the Covid pandemic. There she wrote Mortal Mission, a sci-fi mystery set on Mars, inspired by her fascination with all things celestial. It is a science-based murder mystery; think The Martian with fewer potatoes and more bodies.
The enjoyment of writing Mortal Mission encouraged her to try writing a mystery series. She has always been a massive fan of crime and mystery, so it was inevitable she would turn her hand to it eventually. She published Deadly Return, the first book in the Seacastle Mysteries in July 2023 to great success. The Seacastle Mystery Series is a contemporary cosy mystery series with an amateur female sleuth, her grumpy ex-husband, hacker stepson and ungrateful rescue cat. The ensemble cast adds banter and humour as the series follows their stories between the murder mysteries. Poison Politics, book 10, will be released on the 31st of December 2025.
After finishing the Sam Harris Adventure series, PJ's childhood in Ireland inspired her to write the Green Family Saga, which follows the fortunes of an English family who move to Ireland just before the start of the Troubles, under the name of Kate Foley.
PJ moved to the south coast of England just before the Covid pandemic. There she wrote Mortal Mission, a sci-fi mystery set on Mars, inspired by her fascination with all things celestial. It is a science-based murder mystery; think The Martian with fewer potatoes and more bodies.
The enjoyment of writing Mortal Mission encouraged her to try writing a mystery series. She has always been a massive fan of crime and mystery, so it was inevitable she would turn her hand to it eventually. She published Deadly Return, the first book in the Seacastle Mysteries in July 2023 to great success. The Seacastle Mystery Series is a contemporary cosy mystery series with an amateur female sleuth, her grumpy ex-husband, hacker stepson and ungrateful rescue cat. The ensemble cast adds banter and humour as the series follows their stories between the murder mysteries. Poison Politics, book 10, will be released on the 31st of December 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 31, 2023
This read was for me like a stroll on the beach, entertaining and cosy at the same time!
I didn't think I'd like cosy mysteries but this proved to be a very positive reading journey. I loved how the story of the main character Tanya was woven into the murder mystery, so to distract the reader from solving it! Well done!
The National Talent Competition is suddenly disrupted by the murder of the unbeatable Lance Emerald. This doesn't come as a surprise as lots of people didn't hide their acrimony towards him. Nonetheless, Tanya is "hired" by her policeman ex husband to find the truth. And so she does, but not without getting herself and her loved ones in danger!
From the start this story gave me Jessica Fletcher vibes and I wasn't surprised she was actually mentioned in the book! By the way I loved that old series and I was happy to have found that familiar feeling when reading this story!
If you're a fan of a whodunnit but you want a bit of lightness as well, this is the perfect read, which is book 3 of The Seacastle Mysteries.
Thanks to P. J. Skinner and lovebookstours for a copy and this is my honest review.
I didn't think I'd like cosy mysteries but this proved to be a very positive reading journey. I loved how the story of the main character Tanya was woven into the murder mystery, so to distract the reader from solving it! Well done!
The National Talent Competition is suddenly disrupted by the murder of the unbeatable Lance Emerald. This doesn't come as a surprise as lots of people didn't hide their acrimony towards him. Nonetheless, Tanya is "hired" by her policeman ex husband to find the truth. And so she does, but not without getting herself and her loved ones in danger!
From the start this story gave me Jessica Fletcher vibes and I wasn't surprised she was actually mentioned in the book! By the way I loved that old series and I was happy to have found that familiar feeling when reading this story!
If you're a fan of a whodunnit but you want a bit of lightness as well, this is the perfect read, which is book 3 of The Seacastle Mysteries.
Thanks to P. J. Skinner and lovebookstours for a copy and this is my honest review.
November 15, 2023
The book's cover photo immediately caught my attention, along with its intriguing title. I was fortunate enough to receive a complimentary copy of the book for the purpose of reviewing it, and I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
The author's writing skills are truly exceptional, capturing my attention from start to finish. I found myself completely engrossed in the story, never feeling a moment of boredom. It provided me with a cozy and comforting experience, especially when accompanied by a warm cup of coffee. If you appreciate a well-crafted cozy mystery, then "Fatal Tribute" is the perfect choice for you. PJ Skinner truly exhibits mastery in creating an immersive cozy world, complete with brilliantly quirky characters.
While I am uncertain if there are plans for more books in the series, I personally would be delighted to see what unfolds next. The setting of the story further enhances the cozy atmosphere, immersing readers in the drama of a small town. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all. Get your copy today and embark on a captivating journey.
The author's writing skills are truly exceptional, capturing my attention from start to finish. I found myself completely engrossed in the story, never feeling a moment of boredom. It provided me with a cozy and comforting experience, especially when accompanied by a warm cup of coffee. If you appreciate a well-crafted cozy mystery, then "Fatal Tribute" is the perfect choice for you. PJ Skinner truly exhibits mastery in creating an immersive cozy world, complete with brilliantly quirky characters.
While I am uncertain if there are plans for more books in the series, I personally would be delighted to see what unfolds next. The setting of the story further enhances the cozy atmosphere, immersing readers in the drama of a small town. Without hesitation, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to all. Get your copy today and embark on a captivating journey.
November 7, 2023
It is officially cosy mystery season and here's one you need to have on your TBR!
From the first page I was sucked in by Tanya the mc and her life, I love how the author wove the mystery around this character and immersed you so far in her story that you kind of forget that you're trying to solve a mystery. As a big fan of mysteries I usually solve them pretty early on or have a guess on where the story is going to go however I can whole heartedly say that this one took me by surprise and by the end of it I was completely floored.
As with any good mystery there's tons of suspense, suspicion and accusations that aren't quite right, there's also tons of twists and turns that keep you guessing through out the read. I was thoroughly entertained and found it hard to look away for even a second. P.J. knows how to really get you locked in with their descriptive way of setting the scene. This was my first book in the series but I will defiantly be going back and reading the first two books.
From the first page I was sucked in by Tanya the mc and her life, I love how the author wove the mystery around this character and immersed you so far in her story that you kind of forget that you're trying to solve a mystery. As a big fan of mysteries I usually solve them pretty early on or have a guess on where the story is going to go however I can whole heartedly say that this one took me by surprise and by the end of it I was completely floored.
As with any good mystery there's tons of suspense, suspicion and accusations that aren't quite right, there's also tons of twists and turns that keep you guessing through out the read. I was thoroughly entertained and found it hard to look away for even a second. P.J. knows how to really get you locked in with their descriptive way of setting the scene. This was my first book in the series but I will defiantly be going back and reading the first two books.
November 9, 2023
Possibly the best one yet as PJ Skinner takes us on another lovely visit to the Seacastle seaside.
In Fatal Tribute, the characters are growing in depth and also in their relationships, while new sides of them are being uncovered.
The action and the storyline kept me turning the pages and I flew through this read in two sittings.
If you love a good cozy mystery, Fatal Tribute is the one for you. PJ Skinner is a master in the art of weaving the cozy world and the quirky characters that inhabit that world are just brilliant.
I don’t know if there are more books planned, but I’d sure love to see what happens next.
Fatal Tribute Is full of drama, love triangles and mystery in a small town, which will have you staying up later at night to finish that last page.
Although not my usual type of read, I’m so glad I gave Fatal Tribute a go, four stars from me.
In Fatal Tribute, the characters are growing in depth and also in their relationships, while new sides of them are being uncovered.
The action and the storyline kept me turning the pages and I flew through this read in two sittings.
If you love a good cozy mystery, Fatal Tribute is the one for you. PJ Skinner is a master in the art of weaving the cozy world and the quirky characters that inhabit that world are just brilliant.
I don’t know if there are more books planned, but I’d sure love to see what happens next.
Fatal Tribute Is full of drama, love triangles and mystery in a small town, which will have you staying up later at night to finish that last page.
Although not my usual type of read, I’m so glad I gave Fatal Tribute a go, four stars from me.
November 8, 2023
This is the 3rd in the Seacastle Mysteries series and the second I've read.
This time Tanya is contacted by a colleague to interview the contestants for an up coming talent competition. However, the star of the show is found dead and Tanya is trying to solve the murder as she and her stepson are both suspects.
I loved the dynamics of all the regular characters in this series and it wasi enjoyed getting more insight into a couple of them. Again, I tried to work out who the murderer was but with so many twists and some red herrings it wasn't easy.
I love the author's style of writing and the way she pulls you in. This is another great cosy mystery and I'm now eagerly awaiting book 4.
Thank you to the author for my gifted signed copy and to Love Books Tours for inviting me on to the tour. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
This time Tanya is contacted by a colleague to interview the contestants for an up coming talent competition. However, the star of the show is found dead and Tanya is trying to solve the murder as she and her stepson are both suspects.
I loved the dynamics of all the regular characters in this series and it wasi enjoyed getting more insight into a couple of them. Again, I tried to work out who the murderer was but with so many twists and some red herrings it wasn't easy.
I love the author's style of writing and the way she pulls you in. This is another great cosy mystery and I'm now eagerly awaiting book 4.
Thank you to the author for my gifted signed copy and to Love Books Tours for inviting me on to the tour. I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
November 7, 2023
Another cosy mystery from P J Skinner. I really enjoyed this next book in the Seacastle series.
It took me a bit longer to get into than the previous book - initially felt a slower pace but it soon picked up.
The cast of characters are interesting, they have their own quirks and play off each other really well. I love the duo of main characters and have really enjoyed continuing their story.
The setting adds to the cosy atmosphere and the small town vibe’s definitely bring their own drama.
The writing makes this an easy read. A great book to cosy up with under a blanket on a cold evening
It took me a bit longer to get into than the previous book - initially felt a slower pace but it soon picked up.
The cast of characters are interesting, they have their own quirks and play off each other really well. I love the duo of main characters and have really enjoyed continuing their story.
The setting adds to the cosy atmosphere and the small town vibe’s definitely bring their own drama.
The writing makes this an easy read. A great book to cosy up with under a blanket on a cold evening
November 6, 2023
This is Book Three in' The Seacastle Mysteries.' It's time for the National Talent Competition and Tanya Bowe has been asked to interview the contestants. When a member of a tribute band is found dead, Tanya can't help but get involved, and find out what's been going on and who did it. We also get to meet Helen, Tanya's sister and her niece Olivia. It was nice to see that past characters are back again, along with a few new ones. We learn a bit more about Harry and his search for his brother. I've loved this easy to read book and looking forward in seeing what PJ has for us next
January 19, 2025
What a great series!
October 20, 2023
This is the third book in the Seacastle Mystery series and having loved the first 2 books, Deadly Return and Eternal Forest, I have been (rather impatiently) awaiting this next installment.
There's a tribute show coming to Seacastle Pavilion and Tanya has been asked to conduct some interviews with the contestants.
When she arrives, she discovers a whole array of personalities each vying to be the star of the show.
Not only that, her sister and niece are coming to stay next door too!
When one of the contestants is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya can't help taking a peek and getting involved.....but is she too involved in this case!?
I love all of the recurring characters in this series - Tanya and Mouse (and Hades the cat!), Harry and all the locals - even the not so likable ones (might be looking at you George!) - so it was lovely to be back among the gang.
There's always so much great banter amongst them all which injects humour to the whole book.
The addition of Helen and Olivia and all of the theatre crew added some extra interest and some great side stories.
As usual there are a whole host of suspicious goings on and characters with secrets to delve into and these are all revealed bit by bit.
Pay attention though, as all is not always as it seems.
As the threads pull together and more things come to light, it's brilliant to see the plot emerge.
The setting for this case was just perfect. Having spent years as a musician seeing the "other side" of the theatre - PJ absolutely captures the atmosphere.
I was transported straight back to my youth in those dingey back stage rooms and corridors awaiting our 5 minutes in the lights! Just spot on!
I was a little sad to not have seen more of Harry in this book, but it was great to learn a little more about his life and to see him opening up slightly.
We were treated to a couple of clearances with him though and oh my gosh! The whole fleas scene - I was literally crying with laughing!! 🤣
Another exciting trip out to Seacastle - Another quick and enjoyable read! - I can't wait to find out who might be getting into trouble next.....
***Just in case you're new to this series - this can actually be read as a standalone book. The mystery in each book is full and concluded, so you're in for a satisfying end - but there is so much going on with the friendships and relationships through all three books, that I'd definitely recommend you grab and binge them all - you won't be disappointed!***
There's a tribute show coming to Seacastle Pavilion and Tanya has been asked to conduct some interviews with the contestants.
When she arrives, she discovers a whole array of personalities each vying to be the star of the show.
Not only that, her sister and niece are coming to stay next door too!
When one of the contestants is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya can't help taking a peek and getting involved.....but is she too involved in this case!?
I love all of the recurring characters in this series - Tanya and Mouse (and Hades the cat!), Harry and all the locals - even the not so likable ones (might be looking at you George!) - so it was lovely to be back among the gang.
There's always so much great banter amongst them all which injects humour to the whole book.
The addition of Helen and Olivia and all of the theatre crew added some extra interest and some great side stories.
As usual there are a whole host of suspicious goings on and characters with secrets to delve into and these are all revealed bit by bit.
Pay attention though, as all is not always as it seems.
As the threads pull together and more things come to light, it's brilliant to see the plot emerge.
The setting for this case was just perfect. Having spent years as a musician seeing the "other side" of the theatre - PJ absolutely captures the atmosphere.
I was transported straight back to my youth in those dingey back stage rooms and corridors awaiting our 5 minutes in the lights! Just spot on!
I was a little sad to not have seen more of Harry in this book, but it was great to learn a little more about his life and to see him opening up slightly.
We were treated to a couple of clearances with him though and oh my gosh! The whole fleas scene - I was literally crying with laughing!! 🤣
Another exciting trip out to Seacastle - Another quick and enjoyable read! - I can't wait to find out who might be getting into trouble next.....
***Just in case you're new to this series - this can actually be read as a standalone book. The mystery in each book is full and concluded, so you're in for a satisfying end - but there is so much going on with the friendships and relationships through all three books, that I'd definitely recommend you grab and binge them all - you won't be disappointed!***
November 8, 2023
Here’s my review for Fatal Tribute by P J Skinner
This is the third book in the Seacastle series and it’s additive! The main characters are lovely and center around Tanya, her family, Harry, her friends and her shop. The book is set in Seacastle, a little town on the South Coast, not far from Brighton. Tanya is invited to interview the contestants for the National Talent Competition for the local newspaper but finds herself with a body and that her and Mouse are the main suspects. Also, Tanya has to suffer with her sister coming to stay, right next door to her, for the duration of the Talent competition. On top of that, her ex-husband George, has been taken off the case so he asks her to unofficially investigate the case to find out who the murderer is.
I got into the book straight away and it held my attention until the end. I read it in one sitting. It’s such an intriguing read, with Tania really pushed to her limit to try and work it out this time. Very intricate and lots of twists and turns but Tanya is thrown a bit by her family situation and trying to sort that out as well. This is a great cozy mystery which makes for a terrific read and I can fully recommend it. This is a great series.
Blurb :
How do you find the murderer, when every act is convincing?
Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist, agrees to interview the contestants of the National Talent Competition for the local newspaper, but finds herself up to her neck in secrets, sabotage and simmering resentment. The tensions increase when her condescending sister comes to stay next door for the duration of the contest. Several rising stars on the circuit hope to win the competition, but old stager, Lance Emerald, is not going down without a fight. When Lance is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the murderer but complex dynamics between the contestants and fraught family relationships make the mystery harder to solve.
Can Tanya uncover the truth before another murder takes centre stage?
In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, book three of the Seacastle Mysteries, Tanya finds herself out of her depth in the cut-throat world of Talent competitions. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
This is the third book in the Seacastle series and it’s additive! The main characters are lovely and center around Tanya, her family, Harry, her friends and her shop. The book is set in Seacastle, a little town on the South Coast, not far from Brighton. Tanya is invited to interview the contestants for the National Talent Competition for the local newspaper but finds herself with a body and that her and Mouse are the main suspects. Also, Tanya has to suffer with her sister coming to stay, right next door to her, for the duration of the Talent competition. On top of that, her ex-husband George, has been taken off the case so he asks her to unofficially investigate the case to find out who the murderer is.
I got into the book straight away and it held my attention until the end. I read it in one sitting. It’s such an intriguing read, with Tania really pushed to her limit to try and work it out this time. Very intricate and lots of twists and turns but Tanya is thrown a bit by her family situation and trying to sort that out as well. This is a great cozy mystery which makes for a terrific read and I can fully recommend it. This is a great series.
Blurb :
How do you find the murderer, when every act is convincing?
Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist, agrees to interview the contestants of the National Talent Competition for the local newspaper, but finds herself up to her neck in secrets, sabotage and simmering resentment. The tensions increase when her condescending sister comes to stay next door for the duration of the contest. Several rising stars on the circuit hope to win the competition, but old stager, Lance Emerald, is not going down without a fight. When Lance is found dead in his dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the murderer but complex dynamics between the contestants and fraught family relationships make the mystery harder to solve.
Can Tanya uncover the truth before another murder takes centre stage?
In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, book three of the Seacastle Mysteries, Tanya finds herself out of her depth in the cut-throat world of Talent competitions. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
November 24, 2023
FATAL TRIBUTE is a well-crafted cozy mystery and the third installment in PJ Skinner's The Seacastle Mysteries series. Ms. Skinner does a fantastic job creating the characters and making them real and believable. Each of the characters have flaws that make them relatable to real life.
PJ Skinner's plotting and drama, along with the love triangles and mystery will keep you turning the pages to the end.
Tanya Carter was an investigative journalist before clinical depression and a divorce turned her life upside down. With a few faithful friends she is putting her life back together. From helping her former husband with police investigations, Tanya has become a pretty good amateur sleuth.
Tanya has been asked to interview the contestants for an up-coming talent competition. But, when the star of the show is found dead Tanya and her stepson Moose are both suspects. To get both of them off the suspect list and find the real culprit, Tanya will need to start digging up all the dirty little secrets behind the dark curtain of show business and the stars.p
This was a convoluted puzzle of suspects and motives eventually leading to a satisfying conclusion thanks toTanya's pursuit of the truth, everything came together before the last curtain.
I enjoyed the side story about the growing relationship between Tanya and Harry, and how they weather the rough times. Another great addition was the strained relationship between Tanya and her sister that may resonate with some readers.
Each of these stories are part of a continuing story line, but can be read as stand-alone mysteries. I would suggest starting with the first story (The Deadly Return) to get the maximum enjoyment from the stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
PJ Skinner's plotting and drama, along with the love triangles and mystery will keep you turning the pages to the end.
Tanya Carter was an investigative journalist before clinical depression and a divorce turned her life upside down. With a few faithful friends she is putting her life back together. From helping her former husband with police investigations, Tanya has become a pretty good amateur sleuth.
Tanya has been asked to interview the contestants for an up-coming talent competition. But, when the star of the show is found dead Tanya and her stepson Moose are both suspects. To get both of them off the suspect list and find the real culprit, Tanya will need to start digging up all the dirty little secrets behind the dark curtain of show business and the stars.p
This was a convoluted puzzle of suspects and motives eventually leading to a satisfying conclusion thanks toTanya's pursuit of the truth, everything came together before the last curtain.
I enjoyed the side story about the growing relationship between Tanya and Harry, and how they weather the rough times. Another great addition was the strained relationship between Tanya and her sister that may resonate with some readers.
Each of these stories are part of a continuing story line, but can be read as stand-alone mysteries. I would suggest starting with the first story (The Deadly Return) to get the maximum enjoyment from the stories.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2023
Author PJ Skinner takes us on another delightful visit to the Seacastle seaside and I am eager for another soon!
I love a good cozy mystery, and PJ Skinner is fast becoming one of my favorites in the genre. She has written several other books, but this is her first cozy series. But she’s a natural. She takes the fabulous tropes that make up the cozy world and weaves in and out of them with expert finesse.
Being an ex-journalist myself, I always love an ex-journo. Though Tanya did have a foray into her old field this go-round. Sometimes it gives me a nice dose of nostalgia, and sometimes it gives me almost PTSD. This was a good case of nostalgia. Though, thankfully, even though I was a small-town journalist, small towns rarely have as many murders as most cozy mysteries would have you believe.
The quirky cast of characters is always key to a good cozy, and Skinner delivers in spades. This time they got even wilder with performers joining the bunch. I didn’t think I could love her stepson Mouse anymore or dislike his dad/her ex anymore. But Skinner made me do both of those things with her engaging writing.
I don’t know if there are more books planned, but I’d sure love to see what happens next.
Who’s It For
If you love cozy mysteries, you will love this series. It’s a great mystery and offers everything you love about cozy mysteries – a fantastic heroine, a pesky love triangle, a small town filled with quirky characters, and enough drama and intrigue to fill a book.
Content Warnings: Adult Language and Situations, Murder, Violence, Pregnancy, Adoption, Drug Use, Alcohol Use, Infidelity, and More
I love a good cozy mystery, and PJ Skinner is fast becoming one of my favorites in the genre. She has written several other books, but this is her first cozy series. But she’s a natural. She takes the fabulous tropes that make up the cozy world and weaves in and out of them with expert finesse.
Being an ex-journalist myself, I always love an ex-journo. Though Tanya did have a foray into her old field this go-round. Sometimes it gives me a nice dose of nostalgia, and sometimes it gives me almost PTSD. This was a good case of nostalgia. Though, thankfully, even though I was a small-town journalist, small towns rarely have as many murders as most cozy mysteries would have you believe.
The quirky cast of characters is always key to a good cozy, and Skinner delivers in spades. This time they got even wilder with performers joining the bunch. I didn’t think I could love her stepson Mouse anymore or dislike his dad/her ex anymore. But Skinner made me do both of those things with her engaging writing.
I don’t know if there are more books planned, but I’d sure love to see what happens next.
Who’s It For
If you love cozy mysteries, you will love this series. It’s a great mystery and offers everything you love about cozy mysteries – a fantastic heroine, a pesky love triangle, a small town filled with quirky characters, and enough drama and intrigue to fill a book.
Content Warnings: Adult Language and Situations, Murder, Violence, Pregnancy, Adoption, Drug Use, Alcohol Use, Infidelity, and More
November 10, 2023
‘Fatal Tribute’ is as good as cosy crime gets - it's engaging, addictive, has brilliant characters and is intricately plotted! I loved this book. This is the third book in the Seacastle Mysteries and it was the best yet. It can easily be read as a standalone but I do recommend reading the whole series as they are brilliant reads!
Tanya Bowe is an ex-investigative journalist and now the proud owner of Second Home, an antique shop and cafe. But when she is asked to interview the contestants of a local tribute show she jumps at the chance for extra money. She soon finds herself up to her neck in secrets, lies, sabotage and simmering resentments. Hunter Dorman is tipped for success but ageing competitor, Lance Edwards is not going down without a fight! But when Lance is found murdered in dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the culprit as she and her stepson, Mouse are the prime suspects. What she finds is complex relationships, family secrets and links to the past!
This was a great whodunit and PJ has really surpassed herself with the narrative and plotting! It was complex enough that readers would be stumped but not too overcomplicated that people wouldn't know what was happening. I love when a book calls on the ghosts of the past, as well as working out what happens in the present!
The development of the cast of characters has been brilliant and in this outing, we begin to find out more background in both Tanya’s and Harry's lives and what makes them tick! Tanya is a brilliant character - loyal, nosy, determined and will always fight for the truth. She is like the cool Aunt you have always wanted to have!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
Tanya Bowe is an ex-investigative journalist and now the proud owner of Second Home, an antique shop and cafe. But when she is asked to interview the contestants of a local tribute show she jumps at the chance for extra money. She soon finds herself up to her neck in secrets, lies, sabotage and simmering resentments. Hunter Dorman is tipped for success but ageing competitor, Lance Edwards is not going down without a fight! But when Lance is found murdered in dressing room, Tanya is determined to find the culprit as she and her stepson, Mouse are the prime suspects. What she finds is complex relationships, family secrets and links to the past!
This was a great whodunit and PJ has really surpassed herself with the narrative and plotting! It was complex enough that readers would be stumped but not too overcomplicated that people wouldn't know what was happening. I love when a book calls on the ghosts of the past, as well as working out what happens in the present!
The development of the cast of characters has been brilliant and in this outing, we begin to find out more background in both Tanya’s and Harry's lives and what makes them tick! Tanya is a brilliant character - loyal, nosy, determined and will always fight for the truth. She is like the cool Aunt you have always wanted to have!
Let me know if you pick this one up!
November 21, 2023
I love the way this book shows that an older person can arise from a marriage breakup, depression and a loss of a job and find happiness again.
Tanya is rebuilding her life after all of the above happens. She has a bric a brac shop which with the help of her friends she makes a modest success of. Her stepson who chooses to live with her rather than with the ex- spouse: a policeman, helps her run part of the shop as a friendly coffee-shop and a potential beau helps her find old furniture for her shop.
To get some more revenue she takes on a task to interview competitors in the local musical competition in the old Music Hall. The descriptions of a fading seaside resort in England are wonderful as is the evocative descriptions of the faded, vivid, tawdry and selfish of the competitors.
Tanya and Mouse are at first the main murder suspects of one of the 'faded stars' of the competition - this pro-pulses Tanya into investigating the past....
The delving into the past and lives of all in the music hall is wonderfully developed.
I have read the first two books and think that this series is best read in order. But the mystery part of this book is strong and can be read as a standalone.
Personally I enjoy a lot the awakening of Tanya into a great person after her breakdown and marriage breakup.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tanya is rebuilding her life after all of the above happens. She has a bric a brac shop which with the help of her friends she makes a modest success of. Her stepson who chooses to live with her rather than with the ex- spouse: a policeman, helps her run part of the shop as a friendly coffee-shop and a potential beau helps her find old furniture for her shop.
To get some more revenue she takes on a task to interview competitors in the local musical competition in the old Music Hall. The descriptions of a fading seaside resort in England are wonderful as is the evocative descriptions of the faded, vivid, tawdry and selfish of the competitors.
Tanya and Mouse are at first the main murder suspects of one of the 'faded stars' of the competition - this pro-pulses Tanya into investigating the past....
The delving into the past and lives of all in the music hall is wonderfully developed.
I have read the first two books and think that this series is best read in order. But the mystery part of this book is strong and can be read as a standalone.
Personally I enjoy a lot the awakening of Tanya into a great person after her breakdown and marriage breakup.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2023
Fatal Tribute follows Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist who finds herself embroiled in a murder whilst interviewing contestants for the National Talent Competition being held in her home town. Amongst the contestants jealousies, secrets and lies exist in large amounts. Can Tanya uncover the truth, as there are more than one of her suspects who are determined to throw her off the scent?
The writing in this book makes this an easy read and the setting adds to the cosy atmosphere. The small town vibe’s definitely bring a drama of their own. The cast of characters are interesting, they have their own quirks and play off each other really well. I love the main characters and have really enjoyed reading their story. The main character Tanya skilfully teases out information in a way the police failed to do and I enjoyed following her and her eclectic group of friends in Seacastle. Relationships are definitely at the centre of this novel, between the murder victim and suspects and between Tanya and the people in her life. These relationships are both involved and complex but this adds to the mystery of the story although at times it may be difficult to keep track of some of these relationships.
Fatal Tribute is another cosy mystery from P J Skinner. It is a great book to cosy up with under a blanket on a cold night. The story keeps you guessing right to the end as to who did what as any good mystery should. I loved it and highly recommend this lovely cozy mystery.
The writing in this book makes this an easy read and the setting adds to the cosy atmosphere. The small town vibe’s definitely bring a drama of their own. The cast of characters are interesting, they have their own quirks and play off each other really well. I love the main characters and have really enjoyed reading their story. The main character Tanya skilfully teases out information in a way the police failed to do and I enjoyed following her and her eclectic group of friends in Seacastle. Relationships are definitely at the centre of this novel, between the murder victim and suspects and between Tanya and the people in her life. These relationships are both involved and complex but this adds to the mystery of the story although at times it may be difficult to keep track of some of these relationships.
Fatal Tribute is another cosy mystery from P J Skinner. It is a great book to cosy up with under a blanket on a cold night. The story keeps you guessing right to the end as to who did what as any good mystery should. I loved it and highly recommend this lovely cozy mystery.
November 10, 2023
This is the third book in The Seacastle Mysteries and what is there not to love about Tanya, Harry and Mouse ? i have become absolutely hooked on these mysteries and am over the moon when I get the next one to review.
They capture the light hearted quirkiness of a vintage shop and cosy cafe in a sleepy seaside backwater with, technically , not much going on, and add in a hunky house clearance guy, a teenager who has been previously rejected by his Dad, who is , incidentally Tanya's ex husband and the local DI, plus friends, family and a National Talent competition with its fair share of divas; and you have all the ingredients for yet another amazing instalment in the brilliant, easy to read mysteries.
P J creates characters that you feel as though you know personally and you feel all the trials and tribulations that they have to ensure as part of life's sweet tapestry.
however, I have decided that I do have one issue with the books and that is..... Each time they are in the cafe they are all eating delicious sounding cakes. So come on P J how about adding recipes to your books so that we can all create and dn enjoy Elderberry and Pomegranate cake, or Lemon and Orange cake with a lovely coffee as we read the next instalment in The Seacastle Mysteries.
They capture the light hearted quirkiness of a vintage shop and cosy cafe in a sleepy seaside backwater with, technically , not much going on, and add in a hunky house clearance guy, a teenager who has been previously rejected by his Dad, who is , incidentally Tanya's ex husband and the local DI, plus friends, family and a National Talent competition with its fair share of divas; and you have all the ingredients for yet another amazing instalment in the brilliant, easy to read mysteries.
P J creates characters that you feel as though you know personally and you feel all the trials and tribulations that they have to ensure as part of life's sweet tapestry.
however, I have decided that I do have one issue with the books and that is..... Each time they are in the cafe they are all eating delicious sounding cakes. So come on P J how about adding recipes to your books so that we can all create and dn enjoy Elderberry and Pomegranate cake, or Lemon and Orange cake with a lovely coffee as we read the next instalment in The Seacastle Mysteries.
November 16, 2023
I enjoyed this book. I read books 1 and 2 first and was excited to continue the series.
I love Tanya's character. A recently divorced, ex investigative journalist, now owner of a vintage shop / cafe, she has somehow acquired a cat that dislikes her and a stepson called Mouse.
We see her in book 1 struggling after her divorce and see how she has coped with depression. I love that there is mental health representation in these books, and that it is handled so well. We see Tanya as she grows and changes her attitudes both to herself, her ex and her new found friend Harry (so love where this slow burn relationship is headed)
Mouse is such a great character. Having been in trouble with the law and abandoned by his father, Tanya's ex, he moves in with Tanya. I love his involvement in each mystery and how he uses his hacking skills to help. Its great to see him more in this book.
I loved the mystery of this book, see comments for blurb, the different secrets and twists. There is always a series of different plots within the main plot in this series and this book is no exception.
A great snuggle up cosy mystery / thriller. The perfect Autumn / Fall read when you just want to fall into a mystery book with characters you'll love.
I love Tanya's character. A recently divorced, ex investigative journalist, now owner of a vintage shop / cafe, she has somehow acquired a cat that dislikes her and a stepson called Mouse.
We see her in book 1 struggling after her divorce and see how she has coped with depression. I love that there is mental health representation in these books, and that it is handled so well. We see Tanya as she grows and changes her attitudes both to herself, her ex and her new found friend Harry (so love where this slow burn relationship is headed)
Mouse is such a great character. Having been in trouble with the law and abandoned by his father, Tanya's ex, he moves in with Tanya. I love his involvement in each mystery and how he uses his hacking skills to help. Its great to see him more in this book.
I loved the mystery of this book, see comments for blurb, the different secrets and twists. There is always a series of different plots within the main plot in this series and this book is no exception.
A great snuggle up cosy mystery / thriller. The perfect Autumn / Fall read when you just want to fall into a mystery book with characters you'll love.
November 1, 2023
This might be my favorite Seacastle Mystery so far. I love spending time in the fictional coastal community of Seacastle, England. I want to join the Fat Fighters, sample exotic sweets with a cappuccino at The Vintage, and grab a pint (or 3) at The Shanty. Tanya is a likable, engaging amateur sleuth. In this outing, she's digging up all the dirty little secrets behind a murky aspect of show business - tribute singers and talent competitions. This was a complex puzzle with a satisfying conclusion. I didn't guess whodunnit or why. But everything made sense once revealed by Tanya's intrepid pursuit of the truth behind the stage lights. Truly enjoying the blossoming relationship between Tanya and Harry, even though there are some rough patches (as in real life). Also, the new element of Tanya's strained relationship with her sister was exceptionally well-done. Highly recommended! (These are stand-alone mystery novels, but I would start with book 1 and read the series in order to get the maximum enjoyment.)
November 3, 2023
I have to say that I am absolutely loving this series! Fatal Tribute is the third book in the Seacastle Mysteries series by PJ Skinner. This time Tanya and the gang must solve the murder of a tribute act who is in town for a local contest. We get to meet Tanya’s sister Helen and her niece Olivia in this one as well. The two sisters must work to repair their broken relationship. We also get more insight into Harry as he searches for his brother. Tanya has grown in strength and confidence throughout the series and is definitely secure in her relationship with Harry. I really enjoyed the way she stood up to George in the end. It’s about time! This book is well written, exciting and full of mystery - a good old fashioned who-dunnit! I loved everything about this book, especially the fact that the main characters are just ordinary people with ordinary lives. I can’t wait for the next one!
November 5, 2023
‘Fatal Tribute’ is book three in this fantastic cosy mystery series and I loved this book just as much as the previous two books. I love Tanya as a main character and it was great to see her personality develop more in this book. I really like her relationship with her stepson Mouse and also we finally get to see her start to stand up to her ex husband, George in this book.
This series reminds me of the classic Agatha Christie crime novels and I really am looking forward to the next book. I just want to visit Tanya’s second hand furniture store and have a slice of Ghita’s cake in the cafe ‘The Vintage’. This book is a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves entertaining mystery novels.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
This series reminds me of the classic Agatha Christie crime novels and I really am looking forward to the next book. I just want to visit Tanya’s second hand furniture store and have a slice of Ghita’s cake in the cafe ‘The Vintage’. This book is a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves entertaining mystery novels.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
November 7, 2023
I have loved every other book that I have read by this author and so I had high hopes for this one, and, as usual, she didn't disappoint.
The wiring was engaging, the story line was cosy and compelling and the characters, both old faces and new, were well developed and jumped off of the pages for me. I love cosy crime and this series has everything that I love about cosy crime, suspicions, red herrings, humour and of course murder.
The atmosphere was everything in this book and it was captured perfectly. Everyone knows Hollywood is cut throat, but let me tell you, some of this talent shows and amateur dramatic societies make Hollywood look like preschoolers. They are ruthless and this was depicted perfectly in the book.
I can't wait to see what comes next
The wiring was engaging, the story line was cosy and compelling and the characters, both old faces and new, were well developed and jumped off of the pages for me. I love cosy crime and this series has everything that I love about cosy crime, suspicions, red herrings, humour and of course murder.
The atmosphere was everything in this book and it was captured perfectly. Everyone knows Hollywood is cut throat, but let me tell you, some of this talent shows and amateur dramatic societies make Hollywood look like preschoolers. They are ruthless and this was depicted perfectly in the book.
I can't wait to see what comes next
November 22, 2023
I have thoroughly enjoyed the previous books in this series and this continues the story with Tanya continuing to rebuild her life in the seaside town of Seacastle following her divorce, depression and the loss of her job.
A tribute act competition is taking place in the town and one of the singers is killed. Tanya's niece is taking part in the competition and so Tanya decides to investigate.
This is a very enjoyable mystery story, it is peopled by believable characters including the local women who are a very diverse group. The mystery is very well told, and the culprit is hidden very well until the very end.
Overall this is a very readable mystery which I enjoyed reading, a lot!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A tribute act competition is taking place in the town and one of the singers is killed. Tanya's niece is taking part in the competition and so Tanya decides to investigate.
This is a very enjoyable mystery story, it is peopled by believable characters including the local women who are a very diverse group. The mystery is very well told, and the culprit is hidden very well until the very end.
Overall this is a very readable mystery which I enjoyed reading, a lot!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2024
Once again Tanya is on a case! A photographer, Jasmine, asked her to do interviews of the group taking part in a talent contest at the local theatre. Tanya is happy to do so. Her niece & sister are living in the air bnb next door to Tanya because her niece is also in this show. The man, Lance, is expected to win because he has a good voice, very like Frank Sinatra. Being Tanya, she also takes a lot of photos, so,when Lance is found murdered she has help when she needs to solve the crime! Because both Tanya & Mouse are suspected another DI gets called in. He’s hoping to get Tanya’s ex-husband’s job, so the are all hoping to solve it before he does. When things come to a head, Tanya solves the crime!
November 13, 2023
This is book three of the Seacastle Series which features recurring characters. Although I haven't read the previous books in the series this did not in any way spoil this book for me. Tanya is a very likable character which I think is so important when writing cosy mysteries. The plot was very well woven and maintained my interest throughout the book.
The setting of a national talent show competition was fun and brought along an interesting array of possible suspects and victims. The story is an element of peril and interesting dynamics with the characters. It was an easy and thoroughly entertaining read.
I will definitely be looking out for the other books in the series.
The setting of a national talent show competition was fun and brought along an interesting array of possible suspects and victims. The story is an element of peril and interesting dynamics with the characters. It was an easy and thoroughly entertaining read.
I will definitely be looking out for the other books in the series.
November 14, 2023
I absolutely LOVE small town cosy murder mysteries and this did not disappoint! First off Tanya and Harry are my new favourite fictional couple, their dynamic is so wholesome. The characters of this book, as many as there are, all planted themselves in my heart, except George, we are not fans of George. All in all this book was so enjoyable, I felt so involved and apart of every victory and pitfall. If you are a fan of clean and cozy crime then I recommend this book and series. I thoroughly enjoyed the plots and subplots, everything all slotted together seamlessly and the twist at the end tied it all together.
October 31, 2023
The best one yet, perhaps! The characters are growing in depth and in their relationships, while new facets are also revealed. This time Tanya's niece will be competing in Seacove, but in the pavilion the lead singer is found dead - with a damning piece of evidence pointing towards Mouse. Too much of the plot will spoil the whole book - so I will simply say that the plotting and action will keep you turning the pages! And you will love the characters more than ever. - I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.
November 16, 2023
It's the third book in the Seacastle Mysteries series and is such a good cosy murder mystery. This book has perfectly fitted my mood recently and I've loved curling up with my blanket to find out whodunnit. My favourite thing about this book was the characters, they were all so well developed, no 2D tropes just being used to further the plot here! P. J. Skinner's writing is really good and very engaging. I would happily read more in this series and am already checking out some of the other books by this author
November 23, 2023
Who Killed Lance Emerald ? . . .
** 3.5 Stars **
Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist, agrees to interview the contestants in a talent competition. Her sister Helen arrives and makes things tense for Tanya with her attitude. The action picks up when Lance Emerald’s body is discovered strangled in his dressing room and Tanya begins an investigation to find the killer. Can she solve the case before someone else is put into danger? (It felt like Tanya’s entire family was wandering throughout this one as relatives were everywhere I looked!)
** 3.5 Stars **
Tanya Bowe, an ex-investigative journalist, agrees to interview the contestants in a talent competition. Her sister Helen arrives and makes things tense for Tanya with her attitude. The action picks up when Lance Emerald’s body is discovered strangled in his dressing room and Tanya begins an investigation to find the killer. Can she solve the case before someone else is put into danger? (It felt like Tanya’s entire family was wandering throughout this one as relatives were everywhere I looked!)
July 4, 2024
Fatal tribute is a great murder mystery novel, I absolutely loved reading this novel. The story just captured me from the out set and I was so eager to find out what was going to happen next and the ending!
I really enjoyed the characters, they were all created with great creativity and richness and they brought the story together.
I loved PJ Skinner's writing style, it gave me cosy murder mystery vibes, that were definitely reminiscent of Murder She Wrote, Jessica Fletcher and I'm all for that!
Highly recommend this book, I can't wait to read more from PJ Skinner.
I really enjoyed the characters, they were all created with great creativity and richness and they brought the story together.
I loved PJ Skinner's writing style, it gave me cosy murder mystery vibes, that were definitely reminiscent of Murder She Wrote, Jessica Fletcher and I'm all for that!
Highly recommend this book, I can't wait to read more from PJ Skinner.
November 10, 2023
My honest review
I absolutely love this cosy little series, its such a cosy little mystery..
It does have you completely guessing all the way through it, like who dun it?!?!
This lovely author has yet again, been so descriptive that you get totally lost in the storyline within chapter one, and its soooo hard to put down!..
Characters even seem real like there are right there..
Fully enjoyed it just like the rest of the series. So go get it now!!!
I absolutely love this cosy little series, its such a cosy little mystery..
It does have you completely guessing all the way through it, like who dun it?!?!
This lovely author has yet again, been so descriptive that you get totally lost in the storyline within chapter one, and its soooo hard to put down!..
Characters even seem real like there are right there..
Fully enjoyed it just like the rest of the series. So go get it now!!!
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