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Ruth Morgan Cosy Mysteries #3
Murder on Ivywick Island
A remote island, an impossible riddle, a determined killer . . .
Ready for some family catch-up time before her next food consulting job, Ruth Morgan arrives at Ivywick Island. But no sooner does she step foot off the boat, than her sister asks for help locating a missing will. Without it, Margaret and her husband are about to lose their home and everything they’ve worked for. Ruth agrees, not only out of loyalty, but for the chance to atone for past mistakes where she put her love of solving mysteries before family.
However, there’s far more at play than a simple document, and things take a nasty turn when Ruth finds their beloved butler murdered.
With a riddle obscuring the will’s hiding place, and every choice Ruth makes bringing her family closer to danger, can she solve the puzzles before the killer strikes again?
The third in a series of absorbing whodunnits with a fun amateur sleuth. Another light-hearted escape for fans of modern British mysteries and female detectives, plus authors like M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin, and Richard Osman.
Ready for some family catch-up time before her next food consulting job, Ruth Morgan arrives at Ivywick Island. But no sooner does she step foot off the boat, than her sister asks for help locating a missing will. Without it, Margaret and her husband are about to lose their home and everything they’ve worked for. Ruth agrees, not only out of loyalty, but for the chance to atone for past mistakes where she put her love of solving mysteries before family.
However, there’s far more at play than a simple document, and things take a nasty turn when Ruth finds their beloved butler murdered.
With a riddle obscuring the will’s hiding place, and every choice Ruth makes bringing her family closer to danger, can she solve the puzzles before the killer strikes again?
The third in a series of absorbing whodunnits with a fun amateur sleuth. Another light-hearted escape for fans of modern British mysteries and female detectives, plus authors like M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin, and Richard Osman.
- GenresMystery
292 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 6, 2023
About the author
Peter Jay Black
25 books67 followersKeep updated with future releases at peterjayblack.com
Peter Jay Black enjoys spending his time between the UK and US, loves everything technology, science and movie related, along with an interest in ancient Egypt and history.
Urban Outlaws: Peter wrote the first book in the series from a Hollywood apartment - middle grade action & adventure novels about a team of super-skilled kids, who use gadgets and hacking to take from bad guys and give to the needy. Packed full of high-octane fun.
Peter Jay Black enjoys spending his time between the UK and US, loves everything technology, science and movie related, along with an interest in ancient Egypt and history.
Urban Outlaws: Peter wrote the first book in the series from a Hollywood apartment - middle grade action & adventure novels about a team of super-skilled kids, who use gadgets and hacking to take from bad guys and give to the needy. Packed full of high-octane fun.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
November 3, 2023
I had so much fun reading this book! Ruth and Greg are delightful, as always, there is humour throughout the book, and the mystery is intriguing. A very enjoyable read.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.
November 9, 2023
Book Review: A Captivating Cozy Mystery: Murder on Ivywick Island
5/5 Stars
Let me introduce you to my favorite cozy mystery of the moment—Murder on Ivywick Island by Peter Jay Black. This captivating installment in the Ruth Morgan series has ticked all the boxes for me: an intriguing storyline, well-paced plot, and a cast of charming characters. I can confidently say it's my favorite of the series so far!
Picture this: Ruth Morgan, our talented food consultant, decides to take a break and heads to Ivywick Island for some much-needed family time. Little did she know that her visit would turn into a rollercoaster of events. Her sister drops the bombshell that they desperately need to find a missing will to save their home and everything they've worked for. Talk about high stakes!
But here's where things get really interesting. Ruth agrees to help her sister not only out of loyalty but also as a way to make amends for past mistakes. She has a knack for solving mysteries, which sometimes leads her to prioritize puzzles over family. This time, though, she's determined to set things right.
Just when Ruth thought her mission couldn't get any more complicated, she stumbles upon the lifeless body of the beloved butler. The mystery deepens as she unravels a riddle that holds the key to the will's hiding place. Each decision she makes puts her family in greater danger. Can she solve the puzzles and unmask the killer before it's too late? The clock is ticking!
Peter Jay Black's writing style is simply captivating. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping you engrossed from beginning to end. The pacing is spot-on, with every chapter unveiling new twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the final pages.
What sets this book apart is the seamless blend of mystery and charm. Black skillfully balances suspenseful moments with touches of humor, creating a delightful reading experience. The vivid descriptions of Ivywick Island transport you right into the heart of the story, allowing you to feel the breeze and smell the ocean air.
The characters in Murder on Ivywick Island are truly a highlight. Ruth Morgan is a compelling protagonist, driven by her desire to protect her family and make things right. Her determination and intelligence make her an admirable amateur sleuth, and you can't help but root for her throughout the story. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
As a devoted fan of the series, I can confidently say that Murder on Ivywick Island surpasses all expectations. It encapsulates everything that makes cozy mysteries so enjoyable: engaging storylines, well-crafted mysteries, captivating settings, and memorable characters. Peter Jay Black's storytelling prowess shines through in this installment.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of cozy mysteries, Murder on Ivywick Island is an absolute must-read. Its intricate plot, charming setting, and lovable characters make it a standout in the genre. Prepare to be enthralled by Peter Jay Black's masterful storytelling as he takes you on a thrilling journey filled with puzzles, danger, and family bonds. Trust me, you won't be able to put this book down!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
5/5 Stars
Let me introduce you to my favorite cozy mystery of the moment—Murder on Ivywick Island by Peter Jay Black. This captivating installment in the Ruth Morgan series has ticked all the boxes for me: an intriguing storyline, well-paced plot, and a cast of charming characters. I can confidently say it's my favorite of the series so far!
Picture this: Ruth Morgan, our talented food consultant, decides to take a break and heads to Ivywick Island for some much-needed family time. Little did she know that her visit would turn into a rollercoaster of events. Her sister drops the bombshell that they desperately need to find a missing will to save their home and everything they've worked for. Talk about high stakes!
But here's where things get really interesting. Ruth agrees to help her sister not only out of loyalty but also as a way to make amends for past mistakes. She has a knack for solving mysteries, which sometimes leads her to prioritize puzzles over family. This time, though, she's determined to set things right.
Just when Ruth thought her mission couldn't get any more complicated, she stumbles upon the lifeless body of the beloved butler. The mystery deepens as she unravels a riddle that holds the key to the will's hiding place. Each decision she makes puts her family in greater danger. Can she solve the puzzles and unmask the killer before it's too late? The clock is ticking!
Peter Jay Black's writing style is simply captivating. The narrative flows smoothly, keeping you engrossed from beginning to end. The pacing is spot-on, with every chapter unveiling new twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the final pages.
What sets this book apart is the seamless blend of mystery and charm. Black skillfully balances suspenseful moments with touches of humor, creating a delightful reading experience. The vivid descriptions of Ivywick Island transport you right into the heart of the story, allowing you to feel the breeze and smell the ocean air.
The characters in Murder on Ivywick Island are truly a highlight. Ruth Morgan is a compelling protagonist, driven by her desire to protect her family and make things right. Her determination and intelligence make her an admirable amateur sleuth, and you can't help but root for her throughout the story. The supporting characters are equally well-developed, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
As a devoted fan of the series, I can confidently say that Murder on Ivywick Island surpasses all expectations. It encapsulates everything that makes cozy mysteries so enjoyable: engaging storylines, well-crafted mysteries, captivating settings, and memorable characters. Peter Jay Black's storytelling prowess shines through in this installment.
In conclusion, if you're a fan of cozy mysteries, Murder on Ivywick Island is an absolute must-read. Its intricate plot, charming setting, and lovable characters make it a standout in the genre. Prepare to be enthralled by Peter Jay Black's masterful storytelling as he takes you on a thrilling journey filled with puzzles, danger, and family bonds. Trust me, you won't be able to put this book down!
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
March 15, 2024
ITA
Letto praticamente tutto d’un fiato e subito dopo “Murder at Vanmoor Village”.
Ruth, Greg e Merlin finalmente riescono a raggiungere Ivywick island. La sorella di Ruth, Margaret, e il marito, Charles, li attendono con una certa urgenza.
Il padre di Charles era un amante di giochi e puzzle da risolvere, ad ogni compleanno lasciava a Charles degli indizi e lui doveva cercarsi il regalo nella grande “casa” sull’isola e dintorni. La stessa cosa che ha fatto alla sua morte: ha lasciato un messaggio contenente indizi per poter trovare il suo testamento. Ma devono trovare il testamento prima che arrivi il fratello di Charles. Avendo scoperto che sull’isola hanno un ingente debito, si è offerto di estinguerlo acquisendo tutto l’edificato per farci un resort. Nel testamento, sia Charles che Margaret sono convinti che il padre ha lasciato l’isola e tutto quello che c’è sopra a Charles.
Come i libri che lo precedono, anche questo è stato avvincente e divertente. Il mio personaggio preferito si conferma Greg e mi piace molto il suo rapporto con la nonna Ruth. Oltre al dover scoprire insieme a Ruth gli indizi e cosa significano (perché farla facile giammai), anche la dimora stessa è piena di ingranaggi oltre che essere infestata da un fantasma.
Bello!
Ho ricevuto una copia gratuita dall’autore che ringrazio molto. Questa recensione contiene la mia opinione ed è pubblicata liberamente.
ENG
Read pretty much in one go and immediately after “Murder at Vanmoor Village”.
Ruth, Greg, and Merlin finally make it to Ivywick Island. Ruth's sister, Margaret, and her husband, Charles, are waiting for them with some urgency.
Charles's father was a lover of games and puzzles to solve; on each birthday, he would leave Charles clues, and he would have to look for the gift in and around the big "house" on the island. The same thing he did when he died: he left a message containing clues so they could find his will. But they must find the will before Charles' brother arrives. Having discovered that they have a large debt on the island, he has offered to pay it off by acquiring all the built-up area to make a resort on the island. In the will, both Charles and Margaret are convinced that Charles's father left the island to Charles.
Like the books before it, this one too was engaging and entertaining. My favorite character is confirmed to be Greg, and I really like his relationship with his grandmother Ruth. In addition to having to discover with Ruth the clues and what they mean (never make it easy), the mansion itself is also full of gears as well as being haunted by a ghost.
Nice!
I received an advance review copy for free from the author (Thank you Peter!), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Letto praticamente tutto d’un fiato e subito dopo “Murder at Vanmoor Village”.
Ruth, Greg e Merlin finalmente riescono a raggiungere Ivywick island. La sorella di Ruth, Margaret, e il marito, Charles, li attendono con una certa urgenza.
Il padre di Charles era un amante di giochi e puzzle da risolvere, ad ogni compleanno lasciava a Charles degli indizi e lui doveva cercarsi il regalo nella grande “casa” sull’isola e dintorni. La stessa cosa che ha fatto alla sua morte: ha lasciato un messaggio contenente indizi per poter trovare il suo testamento. Ma devono trovare il testamento prima che arrivi il fratello di Charles. Avendo scoperto che sull’isola hanno un ingente debito, si è offerto di estinguerlo acquisendo tutto l’edificato per farci un resort. Nel testamento, sia Charles che Margaret sono convinti che il padre ha lasciato l’isola e tutto quello che c’è sopra a Charles.
Come i libri che lo precedono, anche questo è stato avvincente e divertente. Il mio personaggio preferito si conferma Greg e mi piace molto il suo rapporto con la nonna Ruth. Oltre al dover scoprire insieme a Ruth gli indizi e cosa significano (perché farla facile giammai), anche la dimora stessa è piena di ingranaggi oltre che essere infestata da un fantasma.
Bello!
Ho ricevuto una copia gratuita dall’autore che ringrazio molto. Questa recensione contiene la mia opinione ed è pubblicata liberamente.
ENG
Read pretty much in one go and immediately after “Murder at Vanmoor Village”.
Ruth, Greg, and Merlin finally make it to Ivywick Island. Ruth's sister, Margaret, and her husband, Charles, are waiting for them with some urgency.
Charles's father was a lover of games and puzzles to solve; on each birthday, he would leave Charles clues, and he would have to look for the gift in and around the big "house" on the island. The same thing he did when he died: he left a message containing clues so they could find his will. But they must find the will before Charles' brother arrives. Having discovered that they have a large debt on the island, he has offered to pay it off by acquiring all the built-up area to make a resort on the island. In the will, both Charles and Margaret are convinced that Charles's father left the island to Charles.
Like the books before it, this one too was engaging and entertaining. My favorite character is confirmed to be Greg, and I really like his relationship with his grandmother Ruth. In addition to having to discover with Ruth the clues and what they mean (never make it easy), the mansion itself is also full of gears as well as being haunted by a ghost.
Nice!
I received an advance review copy for free from the author (Thank you Peter!), and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
May 16, 2024
Another fun adventure featuring Ruth Morgan and her grandson Greg as they travel the UK in their land yacht. In this case, she's finally made it to Ivywick Island -- where her sister and brother-in-law have lived for ages. Ruth is mighty curious to find out why Margaret and Charles have summoned her -- especially as they've not been on the greatest of terms in quite a while.
Turns out, the old man has died and Charles is due to inherit the island -- but only if they can find the will in time. Problem is the man was obsessed with puzzles so it's hidden somewhere and he's left multiple cryptic clues. And, Charles admits, he used to do it for all his birthday presents too -- and he could never solve them. So they need Ruth to help. There's a deadline, too, and it gets even tighter when one of the staff is found dead and the only way off the island is by boat -- which has been effectively scuttled.
Lots of cryptic clues and word games to find the hidden will -- while also having to to safeguard themselves against the murderer who must still be on the island. It would be easy to read it too fast, but then you'll probably miss some of the clues so force yourself to slow down.
Turns out, the old man has died and Charles is due to inherit the island -- but only if they can find the will in time. Problem is the man was obsessed with puzzles so it's hidden somewhere and he's left multiple cryptic clues. And, Charles admits, he used to do it for all his birthday presents too -- and he could never solve them. So they need Ruth to help. There's a deadline, too, and it gets even tighter when one of the staff is found dead and the only way off the island is by boat -- which has been effectively scuttled.
Lots of cryptic clues and word games to find the hidden will -- while also having to to safeguard themselves against the murderer who must still be on the island. It would be easy to read it too fast, but then you'll probably miss some of the clues so force yourself to slow down.
June 22, 2025
Ruth Morgan and her grandson Greg are on their way to the isolated island, where her sister Margaret and husband Charles live. Charles' father Henry, died and they can't find the will. He left instructions in the form of a puzzle.
Con man tried to pretend he was hit by the RV, (Josh Green);
Tayinloan - Captain Barney - Amgine Hall - Merlin, the cat in his oak box;
Carter - butler, Murdered; flew his spitflyer into the lighthouse, (riddle was inside)
Betty Miller, head housekeeper; Ray Gibson, servant, Mr, Fixit; Helen Wood, cook;
Noah - Charles half brother, came from Australia to get his half of the estate;
Det Inspector Murray; Doctor Cleaves;
"red-headed boy" - 40 years ago; "Phantom"?
Groundskeepers, Alec and Josh; Maddie, housemaid; (Murdered);
Family Coat of Arms - Victrix Fortunae Sapientia - Wisdom, the conqueror of fortune;
Mechanical puzzles thruout the house, ended up with glass safe underneath the floor, contains Jean's jewelery and the will which leaves everything to Charles. Stolen by Alec......was working with Carter, but then killed him.
Captain Barney tackles Alec.......
Josh is the Phantom, Charles other half brother.
Con man tried to pretend he was hit by the RV, (Josh Green);
Tayinloan - Captain Barney - Amgine Hall - Merlin, the cat in his oak box;
Carter - butler, Murdered; flew his spitflyer into the lighthouse, (riddle was inside)
Betty Miller, head housekeeper; Ray Gibson, servant, Mr, Fixit; Helen Wood, cook;
Noah - Charles half brother, came from Australia to get his half of the estate;
Det Inspector Murray; Doctor Cleaves;
"red-headed boy" - 40 years ago; "Phantom"?
Groundskeepers, Alec and Josh; Maddie, housemaid; (Murdered);
Family Coat of Arms - Victrix Fortunae Sapientia - Wisdom, the conqueror of fortune;
Mechanical puzzles thruout the house, ended up with glass safe underneath the floor, contains Jean's jewelery and the will which leaves everything to Charles. Stolen by Alec......was working with Carter, but then killed him.
Captain Barney tackles Alec.......
Josh is the Phantom, Charles other half brother.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 20, 2026
Solid Book 2 Full of Twists, Turns, and Secrets
Great follow-up to 1st Ruth Morgan mystery. New location with all new characters.
Mr Black is very crafty with the plot, the mystery, and all the twists, turns, and secrets.
Ruth & grandson Greg arrive at the privately owned island her estranged sister, Margaret & her husband Charles inherited upon his father's death. They must solve tons of little (some very much extra large) mysteries. Ruth is hopeful she will find the will, hidden in the house. Of course, there are 2 or 3 groups wanting to find stuff first--with wanton disregard for the well-being of others.
Naturally, there is a murder day 1, things are pointing to all kinds of interesting puzzles, contraptions and even a massive glass safe under a floor!
Puzzles, contraptions and a riddle must all be solved in order for Ruth (& co) to comeout on top & save the island!
Well worth the read. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Great follow-up to 1st Ruth Morgan mystery. New location with all new characters.
Mr Black is very crafty with the plot, the mystery, and all the twists, turns, and secrets.
Ruth & grandson Greg arrive at the privately owned island her estranged sister, Margaret & her husband Charles inherited upon his father's death. They must solve tons of little (some very much extra large) mysteries. Ruth is hopeful she will find the will, hidden in the house. Of course, there are 2 or 3 groups wanting to find stuff first--with wanton disregard for the well-being of others.
Naturally, there is a murder day 1, things are pointing to all kinds of interesting puzzles, contraptions and even a massive glass safe under a floor!
Puzzles, contraptions and a riddle must all be solved in order for Ruth (& co) to comeout on top & save the island!
Well worth the read. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
September 10, 2024
Surprise
Loved this story . Reminded me of an amusing version of Agatha Christie's And then there were none . The old black and white one . It's sort of old fashioned big house missing wills etc . A couple of murders ,red herrings and riddles . Just very good.
Loved this story . Reminded me of an amusing version of Agatha Christie's And then there were none . The old black and white one . It's sort of old fashioned big house missing wills etc . A couple of murders ,red herrings and riddles . Just very good.
August 23, 2026
a great read
Absolutely a real page turner, as well as the clues to find the missing will, there were several clues to the murder that kept you guessing right up to the last pages. Brilliant
Absolutely a real page turner, as well as the clues to find the missing will, there were several clues to the murder that kept you guessing right up to the last pages. Brilliant
August 29, 2026
Really enjoyed it
Loved this one, so much better than the first, she wasn't as annoying and overbearing and I loved the locked room mystery twist, being on an island, and some good characters too
Loved this one, so much better than the first, she wasn't as annoying and overbearing and I loved the locked room mystery twist, being on an island, and some good characters too
September 1, 2026
Puzzle lovers will especially like this mystery!
Fast, fun, quirky mystery. Family secrets, a puzzle to be solved quickly (with lots of moving parts) and several likely suspects combine to make this book a winner. Enjoy!
Fast, fun, quirky mystery. Family secrets, a puzzle to be solved quickly (with lots of moving parts) and several likely suspects combine to make this book a winner. Enjoy!
September 7, 2026
A puzzling mystery.
Even better than book one of the series. Quite simply the best cozy crime mystery I have ever read so far. Fiendishly clever with all the twists and turns. Memorable characters and a fascinating house. Superb reading.
Even better than book one of the series. Quite simply the best cozy crime mystery I have ever read so far. Fiendishly clever with all the twists and turns. Memorable characters and a fascinating house. Superb reading.
September 22, 2026
Characters were not very interesting or well defined. Story plodded along, but there was nothing compelling about learning the next step closer to the mystery. The grandmother/ grandson relationship could have been fleshed out a lot more. Surface storytelling.
May 13, 2024
Addictive
I couldn't put this down. So many twists and turns but all with a purpose. It kept me guessing right until the end.
I couldn't put this down. So many twists and turns but all with a purpose. It kept me guessing right until the end.
January 16, 2025
Easy read
Murder theft mystery will Ruth be able to solve it all. Easy read its not till nearly the end that you know who the culprit is .
Murder theft mystery will Ruth be able to solve it all. Easy read its not till nearly the end that you know who the culprit is .
March 13, 2025
Book 2 = another good one!
This was another good book with Ruth's adventures. I'm enjoying reading this series! Had a hard time figuring out who the murderer was, which was good!!
This was another good book with Ruth's adventures. I'm enjoying reading this series! Had a hard time figuring out who the murderer was, which was good!!
September 19, 2025
great read
Loved this book can’t wait to start the next one. Definitely a must read. Great story line to follow really did keep you reading
Loved this book can’t wait to start the next one. Definitely a must read. Great story line to follow really did keep you reading
November 7, 2025
Fun read!
Good clean murder mystery with some enigma mixed in. Keeps you guessing who, what and where until the very end.
Good clean murder mystery with some enigma mixed in. Keeps you guessing who, what and where until the very end.
September 24, 2026
A nice puzzling cozy mystery.
August 19, 2026
I very seldom give 5 stars.
Yes, that's right, but this story kept me turning the pages. Following behind Ruth and the very clever clues and mechanisms made a most intriguing mystery.
Yes, that's right, but this story kept me turning the pages. Following behind Ruth and the very clever clues and mechanisms made a most intriguing mystery.
August 14, 2026
This is a great series! Love the cover!
August 7, 2026
Following on from the first book, this was super easy to slip into.
We found out a little more interesting background information on Ruth & John.
A really great "who dunnit".
I'm counting down to 19th Aug for the 3rd books release on kindle.
We found out a little more interesting background information on Ruth & John.
A really great "who dunnit".
I'm counting down to 19th Aug for the 3rd books release on kindle.
August 3, 2026
No recipes good thing
Focus on amusing relationships and a great unusual plot. Perhaps not very believable but who cares. Most amusing.. I look forward to the next installment in August!
Focus on amusing relationships and a great unusual plot. Perhaps not very believable but who cares. Most amusing.. I look forward to the next installment in August!
August 3, 2026
Another winner
Author Nlack has done it again with a quirky and fun mystery set in a fascinating setting. Once I got started with the book I couldn’t put it down and I’ll be on the hunt for other Black novels.
Author Nlack has done it again with a quirky and fun mystery set in a fascinating setting. Once I got started with the book I couldn’t put it down and I’ll be on the hunt for other Black novels.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews