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Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery #6
Murder at the Rusty Anchor
There’s deadweight behind the bar at the Rusty Anchor and it’s up to Cape Cod bike shop owner Mackenzie “Mac” Almeida to solve the murder in Agatha Award–winner Maddie Day’s latest Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery . . .
A rainy July weekend in Westham means the beaches are empty and business is dead at Mac’s Bikes but couldn’t be livelier inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. But come Monday morning one patron is not so lively when the chef opens up and finds a body behind the bar. It’s last call for Bruce Byrne, an elderly high school teacher who’s been around so long it seems like he taught everybody.
When Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of suspects, Mac gathers the Cozy Capers Book Group to clear her name. With no end in sight to the rain, the group has plenty of time to study the clues and sort through a roll call of suspects to determine who decided to teach Mr. Bryne a lesson. But with a killer desperate to cover their tracks, Mac and the group will be tested as never before . . .
A rainy July weekend in Westham means the beaches are empty and business is dead at Mac’s Bikes but couldn’t be livelier inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. But come Monday morning one patron is not so lively when the chef opens up and finds a body behind the bar. It’s last call for Bruce Byrne, an elderly high school teacher who’s been around so long it seems like he taught everybody.
When Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of suspects, Mac gathers the Cozy Capers Book Group to clear her name. With no end in sight to the rain, the group has plenty of time to study the clues and sort through a roll call of suspects to determine who decided to teach Mr. Bryne a lesson. But with a killer desperate to cover their tracks, Mac and the group will be tested as never before . . .
328 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published June 25, 2024
346 people are currently reading
4100 people want to read
About the author
Maddie Day
29 books1,550 followersMaddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
As Maddie Day, Edith writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana. Maddie lived in the area some years ago and loves writing the adventures of Robbie Jordan, a country store owner and chef in South Lick, Indiana.
She also writes the Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries, with bike shop owner Mackenzie Almeida and her cozy mystery book group solving murders in a fictional Cape Cod village.
Her new Cece Barton Mysteries series, set northern California wine country, releases in fall, 2023
Please see Edith Maxwell's author page for more information about her other mystery series and her award-winning short stories.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 148 reviews
June 20, 2024
The sixth book in the Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series which I joined at book four. I am really getting to know the cozy capers book group characters now which makes these books more fun to read.
In this book Mac finds herself involved in yet another murder when she is the second person to discover the body of a retired school teacher inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. Her friend Flo is one of the suspects so Mac calls upon her Book Club friends to help solve the case. They all rally round and soon they are turning up all kinds of clues and information.
One aspect I enjoy in particular in this series is the easy relationship Mac has with the police and the fact that she passes her information on to them. I also love Belle, the parrot, who is a really fun character. This is another excellent read in this series and I look forward to more.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
In this book Mac finds herself involved in yet another murder when she is the second person to discover the body of a retired school teacher inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. Her friend Flo is one of the suspects so Mac calls upon her Book Club friends to help solve the case. They all rally round and soon they are turning up all kinds of clues and information.
One aspect I enjoy in particular in this series is the easy relationship Mac has with the police and the fact that she passes her information on to them. I also love Belle, the parrot, who is a really fun character. This is another excellent read in this series and I look forward to more.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 7, 2024
A former teacher is found murdered in a bar. Lots of people disliked him, so the suspect list is quite large. Mac must solve the case, protecting friends and new folks in town, only to discover she's trusting someone too much. At the same time, she's new married and trying to have a baby, so life is a little hectic. Maddie Day's Cozy Capers Book Group Mysteries always make me smile. Good characters. Clever murder plots. Lots of intriguing side stories. A great series to pick up from the beginning, especially if you like bicycles and store owners who live in the real work (minus the murders)!
July 5, 2024
I enjoy this series because the characters are lovable and believable, the setting is quaint but has a dark side, and the mysteries keep me entertained the whole way through. I did figure out who the murderer was early on, which I don't usually do, but it didn't take away from my enjoyment of this story. I did feel for Mac and her struggles with fertility, especially in light of the ever present baby fever in her community; I liked the complexity and depth this added to the series, which despite the murder, can feel very light at times (as in all cozies). I look forward to the next.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
August 2, 2024
I enjoyed the character of Bella- she saved the plot. It wasn’t bad, but everything else was unremarkable. I knew who the killer was very early on in the plot,
and it was just ok from that point on. 2/5
and it was just ok from that point on. 2/5
July 8, 2024
So this is book six in the Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series, and as is usual for this series and this author, it is another delightful read. When Flo becomes a suspect in a murder case, Mac doesn’t hesitate to stick her nose into the investigation. The book club group rallies behind her and helps as much as possible. The victim was a teacher who was highly unliked by many people, and it comes as no surprise that somebody wanted him dead, but the investigation turns up more than one secret. There is enough action without being overwhelming. The clues are sprinkled throughout the story and aren’t always obvious, but if the reader looks for them, they will find the killer quickly.
As always, the characters are lovable and fun. Mac’s personal life has taken several hits, but she keeps going and will continue to fight for what she wants. Belle is still around and entertaining readers from start to finish; who doesn’t love a talking parrot? Murder at the Rusty Anchor is one of the best books in the series so far. Sleuthing seems to be in Mac’s blood, and even though she puts herself in danger, she does it out of the goodness of her heart, which in and of itself makes these stories easy to read and enjoy.
As always, the characters are lovable and fun. Mac’s personal life has taken several hits, but she keeps going and will continue to fight for what she wants. Belle is still around and entertaining readers from start to finish; who doesn’t love a talking parrot? Murder at the Rusty Anchor is one of the best books in the series so far. Sleuthing seems to be in Mac’s blood, and even though she puts herself in danger, she does it out of the goodness of her heart, which in and of itself makes these stories easy to read and enjoy.
June 28, 2024
Very slow moving. I was annoyed with the fertility side story which was a waste of space and my time. I do love Bella. She’s the highlight of the series.
January 2, 2025
Just really couldn't get into this one. Mac kind of gets on my nerves. She can be so overbearing at times. Telling other folks what to do. Not sure if I will continue with the series or not.
July 8, 2024
Wow! Lot's going on in Mac's world then a dead body appears putting her and the book club back into amateur sleuthing! Could one of their own be guilty or someone close to them? Or is it possible that the dead man had enemies from his past? Add in the personal drama that several of the book club members are dealing with to complicate their ability to sleuth and we may have finally found a mystery they can't solve. The writing of this series is outstanding as always and keeps you engaged. I absolutely couldn't put the book down and probably shouldn't have started it at bedtime since I was up way later than planned! The characters are so lovable that you just can't stop reading as you have to know what happens next!
October 18, 2024
Another book club going around solving murders! All in a day's work for these guys...
Mackenzie “Mac” Almeida is in this book club and owns a bike shop in Westham where the beaches are great and the tourists are everywhere, EXCEPT when it is pouring rain. But the Rusty Anchor is hopping busy, cuz drinks don't care if it is raining. Bruce Byrne, an elderly high school teacher who must have taught everyone in town and was hated by all of them, is DEAD.
Now it is up to the book club to solve the murder despite not being requested by local police to do so. These guys are great at breaking up the work and dividing the tasks!
4 stars
Happy Reading!
June 5, 2024
Another interesting trip to Cape Cod. Unfortunately even though we are in high tourist season on the Cape, it is pouring rain which is not especially good for business, but as Mac hurries to open her bike shop anyway, she is stopped outside The Rusty Anchor by the head chef who came into work and has found a dead body behind the bar. You know Mac's book group will be on the case as the victim was an older gentleman who had taught at the town's high school for years. Although the victim was not especially popular, who would take him out permanently? As time goes on, it seems that there were a lot of people who had reason to want the victim gone, including members of the book group and employees of most of the book group members. Will this murder destroy the group? Will they finally risk too much and have someone in the group permanently silenced? Can Mac put things back to right? Come join the investigation! Thanks to #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for the opportunity to read!#MurderattheRustyAnchor, #MaddieDay, #bookreview, #bookideas, #retiredreader
January 3, 2025
When Mac is on her way to open her bike store, Yvonne rushes out of the Rusty Anchor and tells Mac she needs help. What she finds is a man dead behind the bar. Thus starts our mystery. I used to really like this series but the last couple of books have fallen flat for me. The author keeps trying to, like a bad magician, direct your attention one way when it is obvious what is going on. The the cause of death was obvious from the first mention of the body, even though there was a try at redirection, and I knew who the killer was by the first 10% of the book. But the story continues with Mac trying to find clues that were already right in front of her. The characters have not grown much and are kind of onenote.
August 5, 2024
In book six in the Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series, there is another murder in the small picturesque Cape Cod Town. Bruce Byrne, a retired teacher, is found dead behind the bar at The Rusty Anchor. He is found by Flo, Mac's friend, when she opens the pub in the morning, and immediately becomes a suspect. Mac is second on the scene and she doesn't hesitate to become involved in the investigation to find the true murderer. The book club group rallies behind her and helps as much as possible. The victim was disliked by many people, and it comes as no surprise that somebody wanted him dead, but who, and why. Finding the motive, will help find the culprit.
I really enjoy this series for its mysteries, but also for the side stories of the many characters that I have gotten to know. Mac and Tim have recently married, so they are juggling married life and both of their businesses. The various lives of the book club members are always fun and I enjoy seeing how they get clues and information for Mac. I like that although Mac does investigate, she works well with the police and always shares whatever she finds out with them. Belle, the parrot, is still around, keeping the humor going with her antics, and sharing of what she hears with everyone. but the investigation turns up more than one secret. This time, Mac is in danger and it is Belle that helps save the day. I was pretty sure I knew who had killed Bruce, but it wasn't until the end that my suspicions were confirmed, but there was a huge twist at the end. A great addition to this series. Once again, I listened to this one, narrated by Rachel Dulude. I have come to enjoy her voices for this series and hope she continues to narrate these books.
I really enjoy this series for its mysteries, but also for the side stories of the many characters that I have gotten to know. Mac and Tim have recently married, so they are juggling married life and both of their businesses. The various lives of the book club members are always fun and I enjoy seeing how they get clues and information for Mac. I like that although Mac does investigate, she works well with the police and always shares whatever she finds out with them. Belle, the parrot, is still around, keeping the humor going with her antics, and sharing of what she hears with everyone. but the investigation turns up more than one secret. This time, Mac is in danger and it is Belle that helps save the day. I was pretty sure I knew who had killed Bruce, but it wasn't until the end that my suspicions were confirmed, but there was a huge twist at the end. A great addition to this series. Once again, I listened to this one, narrated by Rachel Dulude. I have come to enjoy her voices for this series and hope she continues to narrate these books.
June 30, 2024
We are back in Cape Cod with Mac Almeida & her gang of amateur sleuths! She is on her way to open her bike shop, despite the July rain, when she’s stopped by the head chef at the Rusty Anchor who discovered a dead body when she came into work.
The deceased victim, we find out, is Bruce Byrne, one of Mac’s former high school teachers. Lots of people didn’t like him, so unfortunately the suspect list is kind of long. Unfortunately, one of her Cozy Capers Book Club members is on that list…
As Mac & her sleuthing friends split up to “interview” people around town about Bruce’s untimely demise, they also look online for anything that might lead them to finding out who murdered him, including several “newbies” that just happened to pop into town..
I have read all of these Cozy Capers Books & this has been by far my favorite! I love how with each book, the characters develop, even Belle, Mac’s beloved African Gray Parrot, & how loving & supportive her entire family is. I already can’t wait for the next book!
The deceased victim, we find out, is Bruce Byrne, one of Mac’s former high school teachers. Lots of people didn’t like him, so unfortunately the suspect list is kind of long. Unfortunately, one of her Cozy Capers Book Club members is on that list…
As Mac & her sleuthing friends split up to “interview” people around town about Bruce’s untimely demise, they also look online for anything that might lead them to finding out who murdered him, including several “newbies” that just happened to pop into town..
I have read all of these Cozy Capers Books & this has been by far my favorite! I love how with each book, the characters develop, even Belle, Mac’s beloved African Gray Parrot, & how loving & supportive her entire family is. I already can’t wait for the next book!
August 2, 2024
I really want to give this book a two star rating just because it was so lame. However, since there was nothing too terrible about it, I’ll give it a three.
The issues with Tim’s sister are just depressing and add absolutely nothing to the book in my opinion. Tim being so almost secretive about his talks with her, and even going into another room and closing the door for privacy, when he and his wife are the only ones home is just weird to me. If Mac and Tim don’t end up with his sisters youngest and unborn child in the next book, or the one after that, I will be very surprised.
The issues with Tim’s sister are just depressing and add absolutely nothing to the book in my opinion. Tim being so almost secretive about his talks with her, and even going into another room and closing the door for privacy, when he and his wife are the only ones home is just weird to me. If Mac and Tim don’t end up with his sisters youngest and unborn child in the next book, or the one after that, I will be very surprised.
September 19, 2024
This is another series that I'm really enjoying. I really don't know how they come up with all these different scenarios, but The Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series is one of the better cozy series available. Well-written, well-paced, and entertaining. I'm hoping my library obtains the other books from this series. Very well worth the time to read.
August 25, 2024
I really enjoyed this mystery. This author is so easy to read + very quickly wanting me to turn the page. I plan to read more of her books. Lots of mystery and lots of suspects to the murder of a man many people wanted to teach a lesson. The cozy caper book group were really challenged to solve this crime along with the police.
July 31, 2024
This one was good. I love the side stories going on more than the murder almost in this one. So much going on
October 13, 2025
Its always nice to go back to the Cape and visit with the Cozy Capers. While Mac and the rest of book group are the "main" character(s), I'm tootally enamored of Abo Reba! She's Mac's paternal Grandmother and she is a hoot! The Capers work to solve the mysterious death of the High School's former English teacher, who apparently made more enemies than friends!
November 14, 2024
It’s always great to read about Mac solving the latest murder on the Cape.
March 29, 2025
This is one of those mysteries where the clues are laid bare early in the novel. I knew how it was done within the first chapter or so. Mac knows fairly quickly who had done it. But she needs more time to figure out the how and we all need more time to figure out why.
That said it was a fun mystery. Of course I adore her bird, Belle. Belle gets a chance again to be a big damn hero. I love how she continues to be an important part of the books despite Mac being married and the two of them moved into a larger place.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2025/com...
That said it was a fun mystery. Of course I adore her bird, Belle. Belle gets a chance again to be a big damn hero. I love how she continues to be an important part of the books despite Mac being married and the two of them moved into a larger place.
https://pussreboots.com/blog/2025/com...
June 8, 2024
"Murder at the Rusty Anchor (Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery #6)" by Maddie Day is well into the character development for a cozy mystery series. I haven't read a the books before this one but there's a lot of character growth it seems for only being the 6th book. Other cozy mystery series would still have Mac hmming and hawing over who her love interest should be. I'm quite okay with this not being a thing.
I was able to enjoy this book on its own.
The mystery was fairly interesting. A much unliked high school teacher is found by a business neighbor who asks Mac for help because she is in too much shock to know what else to do. Turns out this guy was not well liked and made enemies everywhere. It wrapped up about how I expected it. Gotta love a talking parrot when in a sticky situation.
I was able to enjoy this book on its own.
The mystery was fairly interesting. A much unliked high school teacher is found by a business neighbor who asks Mac for help because she is in too much shock to know what else to do. Turns out this guy was not well liked and made enemies everywhere. It wrapped up about how I expected it. Gotta love a talking parrot when in a sticky situation.
April 14, 2024
#MurderattheRustyAnchor #NetGalley is another great addition to this series by Maddie Day.
Mac Almeida is heading to work one early morning when a chef from a favorite restaurant yells for Mac's help, stuttering in shock, and Mac instantly knows that she's about to become involved in another murder investigation.
This is a fun cozy mystery series, and this book was fun to read. I love all the surrounding characters, they add so much color to each book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Mac Almeida is heading to work one early morning when a chef from a favorite restaurant yells for Mac's help, stuttering in shock, and Mac instantly knows that she's about to become involved in another murder investigation.
This is a fun cozy mystery series, and this book was fun to read. I love all the surrounding characters, they add so much color to each book.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
September 29, 2024
I love, love, love, Belle, Mac's African Grey Parrot!!! Belle has some fantastic scenes in this one which is already well worth reading this book!!! The mystery is great and the reveal is action packed. I loved the Cozy Capers in this one. If you like a murder right away, this one is for you. If you like short chapters, this one is for you. The only part that to me that was unnecessary was Mac and Tim's marriage whoas but that didn't effect my enjoyment. I highly recommend this one!!
July 23, 2024
https://openbooksociety.com/article/m...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Cape Cod sounds like a wonderful place to visit! This particular week, however, many tourists wished they had taken their midsummer vacation anywhere but there due to the rain, and to a smaller degree, perhaps the murder. Westham, Massachusetts is home to Mac, owner of Mac’s Bikes and newlywed of almost seven months. She and her friends in the Cozy Capers book club enjoy cozy mysteries and have likewise helped detectives solve several murders in the past year. On a rainy Monday morning, Mac left her shop for a quick errand. Yvonne, manager of the Rusty Anchor pub, stopped her and asked for help. Yvonne just got to work and found the body of a dead man behind the bar.
Most people in Westham, especially those in the downtown area, know Mac and how she has helped provide the police with information she and her friends in the book club hear about open murder cases. Mac is obsessive about keeping things clean and tidy, and to her, until solved, murders are messy and the bad guys need to be caught. Mac went inside with Yvonne, called the police, and asked Yvonne a few questions. They recognize the unfortunate victim as the worst-ever freshman English teacher at Westham High School, a class that every student who hopes to become a sophomore has to pass. Bruce Byrne was such a harsh man that most people didn’t like him.
While Byrne had no obvious injuries, the police seemed to think from the beginning that he had been murdered. Their local police detective, Penelope Johnson, and the state police detective, Lincoln Haskins, questioned Mac so she could return to the bike shop. The pub would be closed until they were done searching for evidence. Carl, the pub’s owner, came to town by surprise, and plans to stay until the case is solved. Carl’s employees do not like him very well, especially as he micromanages everybody.
The Cozy Capers met and discussed the murder. Despite their feelings about him, he deserved justice. He was harsh on students, didn’t like LGBTQ people, and when he knew secrets about someone, would blackmail them to not divulge those secrets. It was hard to find anyone in town who hadn’t had disagreements with him!
I enjoy visiting most of the well-defined regular characters in this series so much! They are hard-working men and women who are active in the community and are willing to help others who are in need. Each of them grows and changes throughout the series. Those changes often define them as much as their lifestyles.
Mac and Tim communicate their love for each other in many ways. Mac’s parents were getting ready to celebrate their 40th anniversary and are still very much in love. Mac and Tim were considering what their 40th anniversary might look like someday, and Tim said that “it will be a rich and joyous path to travel”. They might still be newlyweds, but this lyrical statement in the midst of their everyday life shows a little of their sweet romance.
A lighthearted scene that I truly appreciated was watching Mac decide to cook a meal for herself and Tim. As a baker and excellent cook, Tim has no problem cooking for them. Mac thought she could remember how to make a dish they both enjoy. “Watching” her prepare the meal was as funny as my attempts at making a meal, except I think Tim enjoyed the results much more than my husband did!
There is an excellent balance in this novel between solving the mystery, showing what their businesses require, romance, and family. The author emphasizes solving the murder as the priority for this cozy mystery and nothing overshadows it. There is mention of a cozy mystery and author’s name that is due out soon as one their book club is reading.
In some ways, it almost seemed a given regarding who killed the victim, or maybe it was my interpretation. There were several suspects who seemed viable, but simply didn’t feel right. There were still surprises at the end, and it was quite tidily and satisfyingly resolved. I highly recommend this cozy mystery! Each delightful mystery in the series can be read as a standalone.
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Cape Cod sounds like a wonderful place to visit! This particular week, however, many tourists wished they had taken their midsummer vacation anywhere but there due to the rain, and to a smaller degree, perhaps the murder. Westham, Massachusetts is home to Mac, owner of Mac’s Bikes and newlywed of almost seven months. She and her friends in the Cozy Capers book club enjoy cozy mysteries and have likewise helped detectives solve several murders in the past year. On a rainy Monday morning, Mac left her shop for a quick errand. Yvonne, manager of the Rusty Anchor pub, stopped her and asked for help. Yvonne just got to work and found the body of a dead man behind the bar.
Most people in Westham, especially those in the downtown area, know Mac and how she has helped provide the police with information she and her friends in the book club hear about open murder cases. Mac is obsessive about keeping things clean and tidy, and to her, until solved, murders are messy and the bad guys need to be caught. Mac went inside with Yvonne, called the police, and asked Yvonne a few questions. They recognize the unfortunate victim as the worst-ever freshman English teacher at Westham High School, a class that every student who hopes to become a sophomore has to pass. Bruce Byrne was such a harsh man that most people didn’t like him.
While Byrne had no obvious injuries, the police seemed to think from the beginning that he had been murdered. Their local police detective, Penelope Johnson, and the state police detective, Lincoln Haskins, questioned Mac so she could return to the bike shop. The pub would be closed until they were done searching for evidence. Carl, the pub’s owner, came to town by surprise, and plans to stay until the case is solved. Carl’s employees do not like him very well, especially as he micromanages everybody.
The Cozy Capers met and discussed the murder. Despite their feelings about him, he deserved justice. He was harsh on students, didn’t like LGBTQ people, and when he knew secrets about someone, would blackmail them to not divulge those secrets. It was hard to find anyone in town who hadn’t had disagreements with him!
I enjoy visiting most of the well-defined regular characters in this series so much! They are hard-working men and women who are active in the community and are willing to help others who are in need. Each of them grows and changes throughout the series. Those changes often define them as much as their lifestyles.
Mac and Tim communicate their love for each other in many ways. Mac’s parents were getting ready to celebrate their 40th anniversary and are still very much in love. Mac and Tim were considering what their 40th anniversary might look like someday, and Tim said that “it will be a rich and joyous path to travel”. They might still be newlyweds, but this lyrical statement in the midst of their everyday life shows a little of their sweet romance.
A lighthearted scene that I truly appreciated was watching Mac decide to cook a meal for herself and Tim. As a baker and excellent cook, Tim has no problem cooking for them. Mac thought she could remember how to make a dish they both enjoy. “Watching” her prepare the meal was as funny as my attempts at making a meal, except I think Tim enjoyed the results much more than my husband did!
There is an excellent balance in this novel between solving the mystery, showing what their businesses require, romance, and family. The author emphasizes solving the murder as the priority for this cozy mystery and nothing overshadows it. There is mention of a cozy mystery and author’s name that is due out soon as one their book club is reading.
In some ways, it almost seemed a given regarding who killed the victim, or maybe it was my interpretation. There were several suspects who seemed viable, but simply didn’t feel right. There were still surprises at the end, and it was quite tidily and satisfyingly resolved. I highly recommend this cozy mystery! Each delightful mystery in the series can be read as a standalone.
May 5, 2024
Not exactly the way Mackenzie "Mac" Almeida wanted to start her work day. She knew it couldn't be good when the head cook and manager of a nearby shop, Yvonne, practically stumbled out to stop her, barely able to get out a word. Inside, a dead body. In fact, the body of one of Mac's former teachers and, well, not a very well liked one at that...by anyone. Although at first rather determined not to get involved with the investigation, Mac finds herself drawn in by both her own natural curiosity and the fact a friend and member of the Cozy Capers Book Club may be a suspect. Mac's also dealing with surprise news from her mother as well as personal concerns. Nope, not telling. You'll have to read to find out what's going on in Mac's head.
I will say that I've found this series enjoyable and always look forward to the next book. This one was no disappointment. Recently married, Mac and Tim, a baker, seem to have settled into married life, albeit Mac is pretty willing to admit that she's never going to be much of a cook. Good thing Tim's not only an excellent baker but cook, too, huh? Needless to say, after reading of Mac's cooking woes, I chuckled when I reached the delicious sounding recipes at the end. Mac may not be much of a cook but Mac is a fun, caring person, one who takes her bicycle shop business serious and has found a strong circle of friends, most of them more than happy to step up and help investigate. I mean, these people are serious organized with a multitude of skill sets that make them the perfect bunch to have behind you if you're am amateur sleuth. Interestingly enough, they seem a bit, oh, scattered this go-round, you know, real life happens, but still managed to collect valuable info. I definitely liked that Mac shared information found with the police and has an excellent working relationship with them. Don't get me wrong. They still strongly suggest she (and the Cozy Capers group don't investigate but, well, they've also come to know Mac well enough to understand that Mac and her circle of backup sleuths operate by the rule of staying safe and not doing the sort of thing that would earn them the TSTL (too stupid to live) label. They care about and work well together, sharing info as it is obtained rather than stubbornly refusing to share with the police as many other book sleuths do. That is refreshing and, yes, smart. And, oh, I can't forget Belle, the fun and quite feisty and talkative parrot who gets some great scenes in the book. Are there really buddy chats for parrots online?
Anyway, who killed Bruce Byrne, the not-so-popular teacher? Seems there are countless suspects, many going back years. Even Mac had a run-in with him when in his class albeit her father quickly came to her defense and somewhat soothed the situation. Didn't make Bryne any easier for Mac or all the others who went through that class but it does serve to show how widespread the possible list of suspects might be. But, who holds a grudge for decades? And what was he doing in the Rusty Anchor bar anyway? Why is Mac's friend Flo being so closed-lips about her issues with Byrne? And, oh, enough teasers. You'll like Mac and her easy, trusting relationship with Tim. Toss in some memorable characters from the book club as well as Mac's family and you'll find quite a bit to enjoy her and, shh, probably make you want to go back and read the first five books, too. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to drop by Mac's Bikes again to catch up. I'm already looking forward to the next book to see what's new in Mac's life.
I will say that I've found this series enjoyable and always look forward to the next book. This one was no disappointment. Recently married, Mac and Tim, a baker, seem to have settled into married life, albeit Mac is pretty willing to admit that she's never going to be much of a cook. Good thing Tim's not only an excellent baker but cook, too, huh? Needless to say, after reading of Mac's cooking woes, I chuckled when I reached the delicious sounding recipes at the end. Mac may not be much of a cook but Mac is a fun, caring person, one who takes her bicycle shop business serious and has found a strong circle of friends, most of them more than happy to step up and help investigate. I mean, these people are serious organized with a multitude of skill sets that make them the perfect bunch to have behind you if you're am amateur sleuth. Interestingly enough, they seem a bit, oh, scattered this go-round, you know, real life happens, but still managed to collect valuable info. I definitely liked that Mac shared information found with the police and has an excellent working relationship with them. Don't get me wrong. They still strongly suggest she (and the Cozy Capers group don't investigate but, well, they've also come to know Mac well enough to understand that Mac and her circle of backup sleuths operate by the rule of staying safe and not doing the sort of thing that would earn them the TSTL (too stupid to live) label. They care about and work well together, sharing info as it is obtained rather than stubbornly refusing to share with the police as many other book sleuths do. That is refreshing and, yes, smart. And, oh, I can't forget Belle, the fun and quite feisty and talkative parrot who gets some great scenes in the book. Are there really buddy chats for parrots online?
Anyway, who killed Bruce Byrne, the not-so-popular teacher? Seems there are countless suspects, many going back years. Even Mac had a run-in with him when in his class albeit her father quickly came to her defense and somewhat soothed the situation. Didn't make Bryne any easier for Mac or all the others who went through that class but it does serve to show how widespread the possible list of suspects might be. But, who holds a grudge for decades? And what was he doing in the Rusty Anchor bar anyway? Why is Mac's friend Flo being so closed-lips about her issues with Byrne? And, oh, enough teasers. You'll like Mac and her easy, trusting relationship with Tim. Toss in some memorable characters from the book club as well as Mac's family and you'll find quite a bit to enjoy her and, shh, probably make you want to go back and read the first five books, too. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me to drop by Mac's Bikes again to catch up. I'm already looking forward to the next book to see what's new in Mac's life.
July 19, 2024
As MURDER AT THE RUSTY ANCHOR, the 6th book in author Maddie Day's Cozy Capers Book Group, opens, Mac Almeida is taking a rainy summer weekend in stride as much as she can. The tourist trade is down with all the rain but her bike shop is doing bumper business.
Of course, that good feeling of a full cash register is soon tamped down when Mac runs into the chef in charge of The Rusty Anchor, Westham's local watering hole. There's a body behind the bar. One that wasn't there when the business closed the night before.
Mac goes into check (always her first mistake when she wants nothing to do with investigating murders). The man is dead, but more telling is that she immediately recognizes him. It's her old high school teacher. In fact, he'd been around so long that he taught generations of students. But as Mac remembers and the police begin to find out, he wasn't well thought of because he was a cantankerous old stick in the mud. He abused his position of power to hound students (particularly those of the LGBTQ persuasion) and other teachers alike, destroying school years and careers with equal abandon. So the list of people who could want him dead is long and varied.
For Mac, the case becomes really personal when Flo, the town librarian becomes a suspect. She had professional run-ins with him over books the library carried. Disbelieving that Flo would have killed someone, Mac's questions take her from a part-time employee of hers, the bar's chef, the absentee owner and one of the bartenders among a large list of potential other suspects.
If that wasn't enough to keep Mac busy, changes are afoot with the book group itself. One member has left the group and those still a part of things are slow to come across with information about those they are looking into for alibis. Mac's husband has stuff in his own life that causes plenty of restless nights for the two of them as well.
The more Mac digs into the mystery, the more hidden truths, scandalous behavior and long nursed grudges get unearthed. Soon Mac has to worry not just about clearing her friend's name but whether or not she can find the killer before they strike again.
While the town of Westham may be a fictious one, I love my visits each time a new book in the Cozy Capers Book Group series comes out. Mac and her bike shop feels like a place I would want to go to if I actually was an avid bicyclist. I like how she is generally calm and focused when looking for a killer even though she be more than a little frightened. I am guessing she gets that from her father who always seems to know just the right thing to say to anyone he meets.
I like how the action that takes place in the bike shop keeps us up to date with the shop mechanic Orlean, but still wish there was more time for her story. The rest of Mac's family remains tight knit despite a wide range of personalities to say the least. And given the various subplots that involve Mac's personal life and her family, there's plenty to catch up on. Her grandmother's actions in the book at one point where quite hilarious, especially when she winds up being chastised for putting herself possibly in harm's way.
But most importantly, MURDER AT THE RUSTY ANCHOR provides another tightly woven mystery for the readers. There's a number of red herrings to take you down one narrative path before you (and the characters) realize they have it wrong. But when everything is finally pulled together and the killer is revealed, justice will once again be served for the citizens of Westham, the Cape's own little version of Cabot Cove. You will love this book!
Of course, that good feeling of a full cash register is soon tamped down when Mac runs into the chef in charge of The Rusty Anchor, Westham's local watering hole. There's a body behind the bar. One that wasn't there when the business closed the night before.
Mac goes into check (always her first mistake when she wants nothing to do with investigating murders). The man is dead, but more telling is that she immediately recognizes him. It's her old high school teacher. In fact, he'd been around so long that he taught generations of students. But as Mac remembers and the police begin to find out, he wasn't well thought of because he was a cantankerous old stick in the mud. He abused his position of power to hound students (particularly those of the LGBTQ persuasion) and other teachers alike, destroying school years and careers with equal abandon. So the list of people who could want him dead is long and varied.
For Mac, the case becomes really personal when Flo, the town librarian becomes a suspect. She had professional run-ins with him over books the library carried. Disbelieving that Flo would have killed someone, Mac's questions take her from a part-time employee of hers, the bar's chef, the absentee owner and one of the bartenders among a large list of potential other suspects.
If that wasn't enough to keep Mac busy, changes are afoot with the book group itself. One member has left the group and those still a part of things are slow to come across with information about those they are looking into for alibis. Mac's husband has stuff in his own life that causes plenty of restless nights for the two of them as well.
The more Mac digs into the mystery, the more hidden truths, scandalous behavior and long nursed grudges get unearthed. Soon Mac has to worry not just about clearing her friend's name but whether or not she can find the killer before they strike again.
While the town of Westham may be a fictious one, I love my visits each time a new book in the Cozy Capers Book Group series comes out. Mac and her bike shop feels like a place I would want to go to if I actually was an avid bicyclist. I like how she is generally calm and focused when looking for a killer even though she be more than a little frightened. I am guessing she gets that from her father who always seems to know just the right thing to say to anyone he meets.
I like how the action that takes place in the bike shop keeps us up to date with the shop mechanic Orlean, but still wish there was more time for her story. The rest of Mac's family remains tight knit despite a wide range of personalities to say the least. And given the various subplots that involve Mac's personal life and her family, there's plenty to catch up on. Her grandmother's actions in the book at one point where quite hilarious, especially when she winds up being chastised for putting herself possibly in harm's way.
But most importantly, MURDER AT THE RUSTY ANCHOR provides another tightly woven mystery for the readers. There's a number of red herrings to take you down one narrative path before you (and the characters) realize they have it wrong. But when everything is finally pulled together and the killer is revealed, justice will once again be served for the citizens of Westham, the Cape's own little version of Cabot Cove. You will love this book!
May 3, 2024
Mac Almeida is happy in her new marriage to Tim, the local baker, and her bike shop, which unfortunately, isn't doing a lot of business because it's been raining. Since it's slow, she's out and about when chef Yvonne of the Rusty Anchor is in a panic and asks for her help. When Mac arrives inside the pub, she notices a dead man behind the bar. Not any dead man -- this man was a high school teacher named Bruce Byrne, and not a popular man at that. After calling the police, Mac figures out that someone had poisoned him. But when she discovers her friend and member of the book group, Flo, is a suspect, she's determined to find a killer, even if it costs her...
This is the sixth book in the series, and I have read them all. Mac is very good at finding out information from people; they seem to gravitate toward her personality. She's pleasant and outgoing, and obviously cares about others, which stands in her stead well. Unfortunately, it also draws the attention of a killer, who isn't above using her to find out just how much she knows.
The mystery is done well, and the clues are there if you care to look for them. I discovered the killer before Mac, but then again, I read a lot of mysteries so know what to look for. It is apparent that Mac cares for family as well, when she's quickly roped in to help plan her parents' 40th anniversary -- in two days. Is it enough time? Will she be able to solve the murder first?
I do like the fact that when she comes across information, she shares it immediately with the police. It is so unnatural when a sleuth decides to keep it to themself, and then gets upset when the police get angry. Yean, so. Mac is smart enough to do the right thing, and I appreciate that.
Now that I've done my own little rant, I will say that the ending was very good, and everything occurred just as it should. The killer was caught in a nice climax that held together well. The book itself was well-written and has very good characters.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review
This is the sixth book in the series, and I have read them all. Mac is very good at finding out information from people; they seem to gravitate toward her personality. She's pleasant and outgoing, and obviously cares about others, which stands in her stead well. Unfortunately, it also draws the attention of a killer, who isn't above using her to find out just how much she knows.
The mystery is done well, and the clues are there if you care to look for them. I discovered the killer before Mac, but then again, I read a lot of mysteries so know what to look for. It is apparent that Mac cares for family as well, when she's quickly roped in to help plan her parents' 40th anniversary -- in two days. Is it enough time? Will she be able to solve the murder first?
I do like the fact that when she comes across information, she shares it immediately with the police. It is so unnatural when a sleuth decides to keep it to themself, and then gets upset when the police get angry. Yean, so. Mac is smart enough to do the right thing, and I appreciate that.
Now that I've done my own little rant, I will say that the ending was very good, and everything occurred just as it should. The killer was caught in a nice climax that held together well. The book itself was well-written and has very good characters.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review
July 20, 2024
Murder at the Rusty Anchor by Maddie Day is the sixth book in her Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series and you have got to be a fan .... you just have to be !!!
In Murder at the Rusty Anchor main character Mackenzie "Mac" Almeida is on her way to open up her bike shop, Mac's Bikes, in Cape Cod on a rainy day in July when as she goes past The Rusty Anchor Pub, the door flies open. The Rusty Anchor Pub is not open in the mornings so someone coming out at that hour is a surprise. But Mac is in for more when Yvonne, the head cook and manager, comes out visibly upset. She drags Mac into the pub and takes her behind the bar where there is a man lying on the floor dead !!
Mac recognizes the deceased man as Mr. Byrne, her old English teacher from high school, who she hasn't seen since. She immediately calls 911 knowing very well what is going to happen. The police will come and Detective Lincoln Haskins will be assigned the case, she and Yvonne will be looked at as possible suspects because they found the body, and Mac's group of friends will begin their own investigating and start their group text and chat away. However, all Mac wants to do is head to her shop and help residents and tourists with their bicycle needs then head home to her recently new husband. Mac and Tim have only been married mere months and are still in the lovey dovey stage so a murder and group chatting with her friends is not on her list of things to do. But she will ...
The group have an inpromptu meeting and each member is assigned a person of interest to look into and report back to the group their findings. It is stressed that they are not to do anything dangerous but Mac will have her hands full when her Abo (grandmother) Reba who isn't in the group does some investigating on her own. And members of the group are acting suspicious and keeping secrets .....
Readers cannot help but love everything about this series. You will love the town, the shops and eateries, the people and the interactions among them all. This is a series that you will want to return to often and catch up with everyone and stay a while ... even if it is only through the books.
In Murder at the Rusty Anchor main character Mackenzie "Mac" Almeida is on her way to open up her bike shop, Mac's Bikes, in Cape Cod on a rainy day in July when as she goes past The Rusty Anchor Pub, the door flies open. The Rusty Anchor Pub is not open in the mornings so someone coming out at that hour is a surprise. But Mac is in for more when Yvonne, the head cook and manager, comes out visibly upset. She drags Mac into the pub and takes her behind the bar where there is a man lying on the floor dead !!
Mac recognizes the deceased man as Mr. Byrne, her old English teacher from high school, who she hasn't seen since. She immediately calls 911 knowing very well what is going to happen. The police will come and Detective Lincoln Haskins will be assigned the case, she and Yvonne will be looked at as possible suspects because they found the body, and Mac's group of friends will begin their own investigating and start their group text and chat away. However, all Mac wants to do is head to her shop and help residents and tourists with their bicycle needs then head home to her recently new husband. Mac and Tim have only been married mere months and are still in the lovey dovey stage so a murder and group chatting with her friends is not on her list of things to do. But she will ...
The group have an inpromptu meeting and each member is assigned a person of interest to look into and report back to the group their findings. It is stressed that they are not to do anything dangerous but Mac will have her hands full when her Abo (grandmother) Reba who isn't in the group does some investigating on her own. And members of the group are acting suspicious and keeping secrets .....
Readers cannot help but love everything about this series. You will love the town, the shops and eateries, the people and the interactions among them all. This is a series that you will want to return to often and catch up with everyone and stay a while ... even if it is only through the books.
July 11, 2024
Murder At The Rusty Anchor
A Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery, Book #6
Maddie Day
5 Stars
Synopsis:
There’s deadweight behind the bar at the Rusty Anchor and it’s up to Cape Cod bike shop owner Mackenzie “Mac” Almeida to solve the murder in Agatha Award–winner Maddie Day’s latest Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery . . .
A rainy July weekend in Westham means the beaches are empty and business is dead at Mac’s Bikes but couldn’t be livelier inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. But come Monday morning one patron is not so lively when the chef opens up and finds a body behind the bar. It’s last call for Bruce Byrne, an elderly high school teacher who’s been around so long it seems like he taught everybody.
When Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of suspects, Mac gathers the Cozy Capers Book Group to clear her name. With no end in sight to the rain, the group has plenty of time to study the clues and sort through a roll call of suspects to determine who decided to teach Mr. Bryne a lesson. But with a killer desperate to cover their tracks, Mac and the group will be tested as never before . . . (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. When someone is killed in the Rusty Anchor Pub, Mac and her Cozy Capers Book Group have to find the culprit before one of the members is charged with the murder. They will need all of their skills to solve this murder.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows and it defines the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you are looking for a good book to read, try one of hers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
A Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery, Book #6
Maddie Day
5 Stars
Synopsis:
There’s deadweight behind the bar at the Rusty Anchor and it’s up to Cape Cod bike shop owner Mackenzie “Mac” Almeida to solve the murder in Agatha Award–winner Maddie Day’s latest Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery . . .
A rainy July weekend in Westham means the beaches are empty and business is dead at Mac’s Bikes but couldn’t be livelier inside the Rusty Anchor Pub. But come Monday morning one patron is not so lively when the chef opens up and finds a body behind the bar. It’s last call for Bruce Byrne, an elderly high school teacher who’s been around so long it seems like he taught everybody.
When Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of suspects, Mac gathers the Cozy Capers Book Group to clear her name. With no end in sight to the rain, the group has plenty of time to study the clues and sort through a roll call of suspects to determine who decided to teach Mr. Bryne a lesson. But with a killer desperate to cover their tracks, Mac and the group will be tested as never before . . . (Amazon)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. When someone is killed in the Rusty Anchor Pub, Mac and her Cozy Capers Book Group have to find the culprit before one of the members is charged with the murder. They will need all of their skills to solve this murder.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and these descriptions pulled me into the story from the very beginning. The writing style flows and it defines the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The mystery is well plotted and there were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. If you are looking for a good book to read, try one of hers.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
July 14, 2024
Murder at the Rusty Anchor is book six in Maddie Day’s Cozy Capers Book Group Mystery series, and I grabbed this on audio since the summer time to sit down and read time seems to be less this year. This series features bike shop owner Mackenzie “Mac” Almeida and her cozy book club friends. This is my first in the series and I could jump right in and follow along. I’m delighted that the earlier entries in the series are also available as audiobooks.
Set in the fictional Cape Cod village of Westham, this novel jumps right into the action when it opens with the chef of the Rusty Anchor Pub opening for the day only to discover the body of Bruce Byrne, dead behind the bar. Bruce was an elderly, rather disliked local high school teacher. Once it’s determined to be murder AND Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of possible suspects, Mac and the rest of the Cozy Capers Book Group gather to clear her name.
This mystery novel started off with a bang and kept the twists and turns coming! I had my guesses on the true murderer but that certainly didn’t take away any of my enjoyment of the mystery. The characters are all real and have a depth about them that make them each unique and ones I wanted to know. I especially felt for Mac and her struggles with fertility (there’s definitely a bit of talk about fertility throughout, just as a head’s up). I also loved that the cozy mystery group was reading A Very Woodsy Murder, a new book by the author Ellen Byron that I’m looking forward to reading.
Wonderful details of small town life, real characters and a strong mystery made for a lovely listen as I folded boat loads of laundry! I also enjoyed that it was set in the summertime as that made it felt like armchair travel!
Maddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell. As Maddie Day, Edith also writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana, and the Cece Barton Mysteries series, set in northern California wine country. @kensingtonbooks
Set in the fictional Cape Cod village of Westham, this novel jumps right into the action when it opens with the chef of the Rusty Anchor Pub opening for the day only to discover the body of Bruce Byrne, dead behind the bar. Bruce was an elderly, rather disliked local high school teacher. Once it’s determined to be murder AND Mac’s friend Flo, the librarian, makes the list of possible suspects, Mac and the rest of the Cozy Capers Book Group gather to clear her name.
This mystery novel started off with a bang and kept the twists and turns coming! I had my guesses on the true murderer but that certainly didn’t take away any of my enjoyment of the mystery. The characters are all real and have a depth about them that make them each unique and ones I wanted to know. I especially felt for Mac and her struggles with fertility (there’s definitely a bit of talk about fertility throughout, just as a head’s up). I also loved that the cozy mystery group was reading A Very Woodsy Murder, a new book by the author Ellen Byron that I’m looking forward to reading.
Wonderful details of small town life, real characters and a strong mystery made for a lovely listen as I folded boat loads of laundry! I also enjoyed that it was set in the summertime as that made it felt like armchair travel!
Maddie Day is a pseudonym for Agatha Award-winning mystery author Edith Maxwell. As Maddie Day, Edith also writes the Country Store Mysteries, from Kensington, set in southern Indiana, and the Cece Barton Mysteries series, set in northern California wine country. @kensingtonbooks
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