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Kids Murder Mystery Club: Cold Case Podcast #1
Case File 1: Mia Westbrook
Join the dynamic trio of Ava, Carol, and Derik as they leap from solving petty crimes to investigating the most perplexing cold case of all time. In the first book of the Kids Murder Mystery Cold Case Podcast , you'll embark on a journey through time and deception. In 1998, at her high school senior prom, Mia Westbrook's life was tragically cut short. Her boyfriend, Jason Nichols, vanished into thin air, accused of being her murderer.
Over two decades later, Jason reemerges with a startling claim – he's innocent. But why now? The trio's quest to uncover the truth thrusts them into a perilous whirlwind of threats and danger. As they delve into the evidence, revisit suspects, and sift through long-buried secrets, you'll be on the edge of your seat, captivated by the suspense.
As the tension mounts and the pieces of the puzzle fall into place, you'll be drawn deeper into the enigma surrounding Mia's death. Will Ava, Carol, and Derik crack the case that has haunted a community for years? Prepare for a riveting ride filled with unexpected twists, while you assist them in uncovering the hidden truth.
Get ready to uncover the secrets of a decades-old murder. Join the adventure now and be part of the solution! Buy the first book of the Kids Murder Mystery Cold Case Podcast series today and immerse yourself in a tale of suspense, intrigue, and justice served cold.
Over two decades later, Jason reemerges with a startling claim – he's innocent. But why now? The trio's quest to uncover the truth thrusts them into a perilous whirlwind of threats and danger. As they delve into the evidence, revisit suspects, and sift through long-buried secrets, you'll be on the edge of your seat, captivated by the suspense.
As the tension mounts and the pieces of the puzzle fall into place, you'll be drawn deeper into the enigma surrounding Mia's death. Will Ava, Carol, and Derik crack the case that has haunted a community for years? Prepare for a riveting ride filled with unexpected twists, while you assist them in uncovering the hidden truth.
Get ready to uncover the secrets of a decades-old murder. Join the adventure now and be part of the solution! Buy the first book of the Kids Murder Mystery Cold Case Podcast series today and immerse yourself in a tale of suspense, intrigue, and justice served cold.
176 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 15, 2023
74 people are currently reading
18 people want to read
About the author
Thomas Lockhaven
44 books93 followersSo grateful to have won the prestigious Mom’s Choice Award! Thank you!
You can blame my 7th grade English teacher, Mr. Ownby. I began writing mysteries in middle school, with gripping titles like, The Secret in The Swamp and The Ghost of Hollow Lake—Mr. Ownby, would kindly read them, and then encourage me to keep writing and reading the classics. His words, some day I'll be reading your mysteries with the rest of the world inspired me.
Forty years later, I was able to fulfill my dreams and become a full time writer. When I began writing, I decided that my books would be a safe-haven from the real world. My children's series all have strong messages of perseverance, thinking outside the box, friendship and loyalty. I have a daughter, and as I work through my manuscripts, I always try to imagine what I can say to inspire and entertain at the same time.
For my cozy readers, I spent much of my life traveling to small coastal towns in North Carolina and then later in my life to the coastal towns in New England. I've always loved the idiosyncrasies of the locals, and I've always wanted to bring them to life in a book series. My Coffee House Sleuths stories are just that. And just like my children's books, I endeavor to write stories that are clean, with very little violence and no profanity. I do my best to help people disappear from the craziness of life, even if just for a little while.
I currently live in Boston, but my dream is to move to a small coastal town, stare out over the ocean, and to let the words flow. I have an incredible wife who constantly inspires and encourages me- and an amazing daughter who is my most harsh, but loving critic. As I said earlier, my passion is to write and to continually improve and perfect my craft. For those of you who read my books, I humbly thank you. For those of you who have never read my books, I welcome you with open arms.
You can blame my 7th grade English teacher, Mr. Ownby. I began writing mysteries in middle school, with gripping titles like, The Secret in The Swamp and The Ghost of Hollow Lake—Mr. Ownby, would kindly read them, and then encourage me to keep writing and reading the classics. His words, some day I'll be reading your mysteries with the rest of the world inspired me.
Forty years later, I was able to fulfill my dreams and become a full time writer. When I began writing, I decided that my books would be a safe-haven from the real world. My children's series all have strong messages of perseverance, thinking outside the box, friendship and loyalty. I have a daughter, and as I work through my manuscripts, I always try to imagine what I can say to inspire and entertain at the same time.
For my cozy readers, I spent much of my life traveling to small coastal towns in North Carolina and then later in my life to the coastal towns in New England. I've always loved the idiosyncrasies of the locals, and I've always wanted to bring them to life in a book series. My Coffee House Sleuths stories are just that. And just like my children's books, I endeavor to write stories that are clean, with very little violence and no profanity. I do my best to help people disappear from the craziness of life, even if just for a little while.
I currently live in Boston, but my dream is to move to a small coastal town, stare out over the ocean, and to let the words flow. I have an incredible wife who constantly inspires and encourages me- and an amazing daughter who is my most harsh, but loving critic. As I said earlier, my passion is to write and to continually improve and perfect my craft. For those of you who read my books, I humbly thank you. For those of you who have never read my books, I welcome you with open arms.
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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
October 15, 2023
Don’t be put off by the fact this is targeted towards older kids and young adults. This story once you get started will draw you in and make you feel like part of the investigation right through til the end. I really enjoyed the podcast as a vehicle for why the kids are taking on murder investigations in their spare time. It made it both believable and relevant to today’s youth. I loved the mix of podcast episodes and actual investigative work it was a great balance. The interactions between the three friends were incredibly funny and gave a bit of levity to an otherwise serious topic. My one drawback would be that while we are told the kids have solved mysteries before we’re not told or shown how and when this happened. I would’ve like to know a little of the background and how they got started. Other than that I found this to be a most entertaining read. I would totally listen to this podcast if it was real!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 15, 2025
A cute book for 4th -8th grade maybe. My 7th grader really enjoyed reading this one.
April 4, 2025
Teenagers, Ava, Carol and Derik venture into the world of podcasting when they decide to begin the Kids Murder Mystery Podcast where they investigate cold case crimes. The first case file is the story of Mia Westbrook, a seventeen year old girl who was murdered the night she was named Prom Queen.
This was good, the exact type of book I would've enjoyed reading as a tween. It's a clean, cosy murder mystery with a fast paced plot and a clear, engaging writing style. There was a good balance between conveying the podcast element of the text and the rest of the investigation - although it could be somewhat repetitive rehashing the same interviews the reader has already seen. I don't think it would have bothered me as a kid though and it only minorly irked me now. I did like that the author points out the sound effects they used as part of the podcast. It was a small thing but one that added depth. I was pretty amused by the idea of people sending in classified information that was supposed to be held back from the public - especially the picture from the coroner's report. The name of their podcast was definitely lacking some creativity, apart from the likelihood of any fourteen year old using the word kid in the title when referring to themselves. Still, it all flowed well and kept me invested in the case.
Although I'm aware of the author's other books, I haven't gotten around to reading the Ava and Carol Detective Agency Mysteries. It's on the list. This one would have been too but it moved up when I saw cold case podcast as the focus. While the book seems to stand on its own, I would say there's probably more enjoyment in reading the other books first. The crime is interesting and logical and the investigation flows well - but there's not a lot of character development or backstory here - things I'd imagine are in the earlier ten books. It's not a dealbreaker and the introduction to the characters is fine - but it would be nice to know a bit more about Ava, Carol and Derik.
What I did see of Ava, Carol and Derik seemed good. They all seem like good friends who have known each other a long time and are aware of each other's strengths and flaws. They were entertaining as they snarked and bantered with each other but I wanted to know more about their interests and histories.
I did find the threats problematic. I mean a written threat left on your bike parked in a public street was bad, but a photo threat left taped to your bedroom window? I felt like that warranted a lot more fear and anger and response than it received. Especially since they didn't seem to tell anyone - like a parent, the cops, etc. I did like that they contacted the Detective before they proceeded with their plan but I also can't imagine a Detective letting any fourteen year olds confront a murderer. Like I know, fiction. And I know, the plot wouldn't work without it - but also as an adult, I'm having a hard time seeing it. I find it interesting comparing what I would have read and accepted as a child and what I read and accept now. Still my disbelief is more on me than any actual issues with the plot and the way the kids handle it.
A lighthearted humourous read with murder, podcasting and amateur sleuths, I'll definitely be picking up the rest of the series. 4 stars for the target audience, 3 stars for me.
This was good, the exact type of book I would've enjoyed reading as a tween. It's a clean, cosy murder mystery with a fast paced plot and a clear, engaging writing style. There was a good balance between conveying the podcast element of the text and the rest of the investigation - although it could be somewhat repetitive rehashing the same interviews the reader has already seen. I don't think it would have bothered me as a kid though and it only minorly irked me now. I did like that the author points out the sound effects they used as part of the podcast. It was a small thing but one that added depth. I was pretty amused by the idea of people sending in classified information that was supposed to be held back from the public - especially the picture from the coroner's report. The name of their podcast was definitely lacking some creativity, apart from the likelihood of any fourteen year old using the word kid in the title when referring to themselves. Still, it all flowed well and kept me invested in the case.
Although I'm aware of the author's other books, I haven't gotten around to reading the Ava and Carol Detective Agency Mysteries. It's on the list. This one would have been too but it moved up when I saw cold case podcast as the focus. While the book seems to stand on its own, I would say there's probably more enjoyment in reading the other books first. The crime is interesting and logical and the investigation flows well - but there's not a lot of character development or backstory here - things I'd imagine are in the earlier ten books. It's not a dealbreaker and the introduction to the characters is fine - but it would be nice to know a bit more about Ava, Carol and Derik.
What I did see of Ava, Carol and Derik seemed good. They all seem like good friends who have known each other a long time and are aware of each other's strengths and flaws. They were entertaining as they snarked and bantered with each other but I wanted to know more about their interests and histories.
I did find the threats problematic. I mean a written threat left on your bike parked in a public street was bad, but a photo threat left taped to your bedroom window? I felt like that warranted a lot more fear and anger and response than it received. Especially since they didn't seem to tell anyone - like a parent, the cops, etc. I did like that they contacted the Detective before they proceeded with their plan but I also can't imagine a Detective letting any fourteen year olds confront a murderer. Like I know, fiction. And I know, the plot wouldn't work without it - but also as an adult, I'm having a hard time seeing it. I find it interesting comparing what I would have read and accepted as a child and what I read and accept now. Still my disbelief is more on me than any actual issues with the plot and the way the kids handle it.
A lighthearted humourous read with murder, podcasting and amateur sleuths, I'll definitely be picking up the rest of the series. 4 stars for the target audience, 3 stars for me.
October 21, 2023
Crime- Murder
Victim- Mia Westbrook, Prom Queen and Creative Writer
COD- Blunt force trauma to the head (not explicit)
Accused- her boyfriend Jason
Detectives- Carol, Ava, and Derik. They are students who run a True Crime/Cold Case podcast.
I would totally have loved this book when I was a young teen.
The podcast is a good framing device for the story, and a great way to get across exposition. The detectives are likable and, though they razz each other a bit, they are never mean or bullying. The mystery is well done. It was pretty obvious who the killer was and why, but it’s a clever plot and it was fun to see the mystery unfold. The podcast created a group mind environment, which was the key to solving the cold case. I don't think that most parents would object to this book. The violence is historical and not graphic, and there are no sexual undertones to the story. Nor is there profanity. It’s a fun story and was an entertaining read. I feel that it would be enjoyed most by kids aged 11-13.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Victim- Mia Westbrook, Prom Queen and Creative Writer
COD- Blunt force trauma to the head (not explicit)
Accused- her boyfriend Jason
Detectives- Carol, Ava, and Derik. They are students who run a True Crime/Cold Case podcast.
I would totally have loved this book when I was a young teen.
The podcast is a good framing device for the story, and a great way to get across exposition. The detectives are likable and, though they razz each other a bit, they are never mean or bullying. The mystery is well done. It was pretty obvious who the killer was and why, but it’s a clever plot and it was fun to see the mystery unfold. The podcast created a group mind environment, which was the key to solving the cold case. I don't think that most parents would object to this book. The violence is historical and not graphic, and there are no sexual undertones to the story. Nor is there profanity. It’s a fun story and was an entertaining read. I feel that it would be enjoyed most by kids aged 11-13.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 20, 2024
Fun “cozy” mystery story for younger readers
Although this mystery story revolves around the murder of a teenager, it is done in a way that avoids the gore of many adult murder mysteries. While the storyline has plenty of suspense, there are two reasons I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5. The first is the lack of scene work in several of the chapters. For example, chapters 2 and 4 are pretty solid—each sets a solid backdrop for the dialogue and action as it unfolds. But chapters 1 and 3 primarily rely on dialogue to move the story along. I prefer to be more immersed in a setting when reading, so some of the chapters left me needing more. The second reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5 is the mismatch in ages (characters vs. readers). The main characters are high school students (drinking coffee, driving, etc.). I think this story would be better targeted (and adjusted) to appeal to a YA audience instead of middle grade (9-12 YO) readers. But overall, the story itself is good, and I’m sure a wide range of young readers would appreciate it.
Although this mystery story revolves around the murder of a teenager, it is done in a way that avoids the gore of many adult murder mysteries. While the storyline has plenty of suspense, there are two reasons I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5. The first is the lack of scene work in several of the chapters. For example, chapters 2 and 4 are pretty solid—each sets a solid backdrop for the dialogue and action as it unfolds. But chapters 1 and 3 primarily rely on dialogue to move the story along. I prefer to be more immersed in a setting when reading, so some of the chapters left me needing more. The second reason I’m giving 4 stars instead of 5 is the mismatch in ages (characters vs. readers). The main characters are high school students (drinking coffee, driving, etc.). I think this story would be better targeted (and adjusted) to appeal to a YA audience instead of middle grade (9-12 YO) readers. But overall, the story itself is good, and I’m sure a wide range of young readers would appreciate it.
December 14, 2023
This book is VERY well written. It is an excellent young adult book about three teens who get together and start a podcast about murder mysteries and how they went about solving a cold case from 1998.
The story is filled with humor and suspense. The characters in the book are very believable. The story line of how they solved the murder mystery grabs ones interest from the very beginning.
I highly recommend this book for YA readers .... AND adults! (As an adult I totally enjoyed this book from beginning to end!!)
Looking forward to sharing this wonderful book with our community through our Little Free Library!!
The story is filled with humor and suspense. The characters in the book are very believable. The story line of how they solved the murder mystery grabs ones interest from the very beginning.
I highly recommend this book for YA readers .... AND adults! (As an adult I totally enjoyed this book from beginning to end!!)
Looking forward to sharing this wonderful book with our community through our Little Free Library!!
October 16, 2023
Ava Clarke is an absolute treasure. This girl has me laughing out loud almost every time she opens her mouth to speak. This is a fun book to read and I enjoy the idea of these teens producing a cold case podcast…they are definitely qualified to solve the case. It is a sad story though, a talented girl, Mia Westbrook, lost her life for being herself. I had fun reading this book and I enjoyed it immensely!
October 27, 2023
Such a great idea to do a cold case podcast with these three! It made for fun reading! I didn't figure out the culprit until the end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 9, 2024
This was an enjoyable read with an interesting mystery. I will definitely be picking up the rest of the books in this series. If you enjoy podcasts or mysteries I highly recommend you check this book out!
December 7, 2023
Awsome
I thought it was emotional and full of danger and unexpected twists and turns. Amazing, sensational, riveting, dangerous, and a bunch of 'Why.'
I thought it was emotional and full of danger and unexpected twists and turns. Amazing, sensational, riveting, dangerous, and a bunch of 'Why.'
November 17, 2023
Given the task in school of delving into an old cold-case to see if they can uncover any missed evidence, Ava, Carol & Derik choose the 1998 case of Mia Westbrooks murder. As the story goes, during her high school senior prom, Mia Westbrook's life was tragically cut short. Her boyfriend, Jason Nichols, vanished into thin air, accused of being her murderer, only thing is that a Jason says he didn’t do it, he’s been falsely accused and on the run! Can this trio prove or disprove his innocence? Their quest to uncover the truth thrusts them into a perilous whirlwind of threats and danger. See the trio run a podcast, giving listeners the opportunity to follow along and help them put the pieces together, someone is not happy they are revisiting this case. As new evidence trickles in, and the pieces start falling together, the suspense grabs you and takes you along for a ride of twists and turns. As they start to sift through new and old evidence, revisit suspects, and reveal long-buried secrets, you'll be on the edge of your seat.. Will Ava, Carol, and Derik crack the case that has haunted a community for years?
July 11, 2025
It is a very good book for people who like mystery
November 24, 2023
“ Who done it” kids style! Enterprising kids hear about a cold case and decide to solve it!
But they better be careful!
I found this kids mystery book to be engaging and a delight to read. Pick it up for your kids to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
But they better be careful!
I found this kids mystery book to be engaging and a delight to read. Pick it up for your kids to read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Twisted Key Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews