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Seacastle Mysteries #4
Toxic Vows
A shotgun marriage can lead to deadly celebrations
Tanya Bowe, ex-investigative journalist and local sleuth, feels obliged to attend the wedding of her ex-husband D.I. George Carter. The atmosphere is less than convivial as underlying tensions bubble to the surface. But when the bride is found dead only hours after the ceremony, the spotlight is firmly turned onto George as the main suspect.
George's rival, D.I. Antrim is determined prove him responsible for the murder, so a reluctant Tanya is forced to come to his aid.
How will she find the murderer when everybody has an alibi?
In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, Tanya must rescue her ex-husband, if she is to finally escape the past. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
Buy it now and solve the mystery for yourself
Tanya Bowe, ex-investigative journalist and local sleuth, feels obliged to attend the wedding of her ex-husband D.I. George Carter. The atmosphere is less than convivial as underlying tensions bubble to the surface. But when the bride is found dead only hours after the ceremony, the spotlight is firmly turned onto George as the main suspect.
George's rival, D.I. Antrim is determined prove him responsible for the murder, so a reluctant Tanya is forced to come to his aid.
How will she find the murderer when everybody has an alibi?
In this enthralling English, small-town, cozy mystery, Tanya must rescue her ex-husband, if she is to finally escape the past. If you love a cozy whodunnit set at the seaside, with a cast of recurring characters, this is the series for you.
Buy it now and solve the mystery for yourself
- GenresMystery
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 16, 2024
249 people are currently reading
49 people want to read
About the author
P.J. Skinner
28 books69 followersPJ Skinner was born in Guildford, one of seven siblings. When she was six, the family moved to Ireland where she attended school. She went to Trinity College, Dublin University, graduating as a geologist. After graduation, PJ spent 35 years working in over thirty countries as an exploration geologist. PJ worked in many remote, strange, and often dangerous places, and loved every minute, despite encountering her fair share of misogyny and other perils. During this time, she collected the tall tales and real-life experiences which inspired her to write the Sam Harris Adventure Series. The series chronicles the adventures of a pioneering female geologist in an almost exclusively male world.
After finishing the Sam Harris Adventure series, PJ's childhood in Ireland inspired her to write the Green Family Saga, which follows the fortunes of an English family who move to Ireland just before the start of the Troubles, under the name of Kate Foley.
PJ moved to the south coast of England just before the Covid pandemic. There she wrote Mortal Mission, a sci-fi mystery set on Mars, inspired by her fascination with all things celestial. It is a science-based murder mystery; think The Martian with fewer potatoes and more bodies.
The enjoyment of writing Mortal Mission encouraged her to try writing a mystery series. She has always been a massive fan of crime and mystery, so it was inevitable she would turn her hand to it eventually. She published Deadly Return, the first book in the Seacastle Mysteries in July 2023 to great success. The Seacastle Mystery Series is a contemporary cosy mystery series with an amateur female sleuth, her grumpy ex-husband, hacker stepson and ungrateful rescue cat. The ensemble cast adds banter and humour as the series follows their stories between the murder mysteries. Poison Politics, book 10, will be released on the 31st of December 2025.
After finishing the Sam Harris Adventure series, PJ's childhood in Ireland inspired her to write the Green Family Saga, which follows the fortunes of an English family who move to Ireland just before the start of the Troubles, under the name of Kate Foley.
PJ moved to the south coast of England just before the Covid pandemic. There she wrote Mortal Mission, a sci-fi mystery set on Mars, inspired by her fascination with all things celestial. It is a science-based murder mystery; think The Martian with fewer potatoes and more bodies.
The enjoyment of writing Mortal Mission encouraged her to try writing a mystery series. She has always been a massive fan of crime and mystery, so it was inevitable she would turn her hand to it eventually. She published Deadly Return, the first book in the Seacastle Mysteries in July 2023 to great success. The Seacastle Mystery Series is a contemporary cosy mystery series with an amateur female sleuth, her grumpy ex-husband, hacker stepson and ungrateful rescue cat. The ensemble cast adds banter and humour as the series follows their stories between the murder mysteries. Poison Politics, book 10, will be released on the 31st of December 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
March 9, 2024
I’m absolutely enamored with this series! It’s brimming with incredible characters, extending beyond the leads—Tanya, George, and Harry—to include even the secondary cast, particularly Mouse. Reading this series has been an absolute joy. For newcomers, beginning with the fourth book is perfectly fine and still offers a great experience, but I highly recommend indulging in the first three books as well.
I found this to be an exceptional murder mystery set in a quaint English town, captivating me right from the first page. The author didn’t just craft an excellent narrative, but also created characters that were impeccably suited for the tale.
The writing skills of the author are flawless and I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored. I was second guessing throughout the book as the suspense kept building up. Through her Captivating writing style I could visualise the whole story floating in front of my eyes. I will highly recommend this book. Grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy reading it as much as I did.
I found this to be an exceptional murder mystery set in a quaint English town, captivating me right from the first page. The author didn’t just craft an excellent narrative, but also created characters that were impeccably suited for the tale.
The writing skills of the author are flawless and I was engaged throughout the book without getting bored. I was second guessing throughout the book as the suspense kept building up. Through her Captivating writing style I could visualise the whole story floating in front of my eyes. I will highly recommend this book. Grab your copy today and you will definitely enjoy reading it as much as I did.
February 29, 2024
I just love this series so much and this was another fantastic book that hit all the right notes. The mystery was twisted (in the best way), hilarious, and entertaining. Despite a huge clue in plain sight, I did not see the whodunnit/whydunnit coming. How does the author manage to work this magic book after book? Chef’s kiss. Loved it! Keep these mysteries coming!!
February 22, 2024
Yes! I've been so excited to read this, book 4 in the Seacastle Mysteries, and to see what was in store for Tanya and the gang in this episode....and I was not disappointed at all!!
We left book 3 on a bit of a precipice in terms of relationships, so I was really keen to see whose wedding we were going to be attending in this book.
Now I'm going to be slightly mean here, because I hate giving spoilers (especially as someone who loves to go into books without even reading the blurb) and I'm not going to give away any of the plot (or even say who is getting married.....) You'll need to read the book to find out!
But, it was brilliant to return to life in Seacastle with the comings, goings and complications afoot in the Grotty Hovel and Second Home.
As ever, I love that PJ includes little bits of an introduction to the whole scene.
Reminding those of us who have read the whole series, of important details - but this could also work for those coming into this book fresh and reading it first.
It really works well and as this is a self contained case from start to finish, it really would work fine as a standalone read.
However, my usual warnings - there are many returning characters and knowing their previous actions, scenes and personalities etc is sometimes key to how you appraise their behaviour in this story.
Also, our main character's relationships and dynamics arc throughout the whole series and I certainly love all the nuances in the overall storyline for these characters.
Please, please grab the whole series - you'll race through the stories and love them all!
This case runs to the same brilliant formula as the other 3 books and it's one that we know and love!
Something bad will happen, we'll be given our clues and suspects and have time to make our theories....
But be careful - you might miss something vital....which, you've guessed it, I did!
I honestly thought I'd cracked this one early on, definitely with the who....but was still intrigued by the why!?
Well, nope! Once again, I was almost to the end and here came the curveballs - one after the other - and then the total shocker of the reveal, where I had to pause and admonish myself for having completely missed it.....again!!
PJ really has a way of drawing you into the action throughout, with some skillful writing, great characters, interesting side stories and humour to boot!
I often find certain scenes extremely relatable (yes! I mean the m&s one!) and the diversity in characters means that you will easily connect and empathise with at least some of them, if not all!
This was another extremely enjoyable read and I can't wait to see what comes next.....
We left book 3 on a bit of a precipice in terms of relationships, so I was really keen to see whose wedding we were going to be attending in this book.
Now I'm going to be slightly mean here, because I hate giving spoilers (especially as someone who loves to go into books without even reading the blurb) and I'm not going to give away any of the plot (or even say who is getting married.....) You'll need to read the book to find out!
But, it was brilliant to return to life in Seacastle with the comings, goings and complications afoot in the Grotty Hovel and Second Home.
As ever, I love that PJ includes little bits of an introduction to the whole scene.
Reminding those of us who have read the whole series, of important details - but this could also work for those coming into this book fresh and reading it first.
It really works well and as this is a self contained case from start to finish, it really would work fine as a standalone read.
However, my usual warnings - there are many returning characters and knowing their previous actions, scenes and personalities etc is sometimes key to how you appraise their behaviour in this story.
Also, our main character's relationships and dynamics arc throughout the whole series and I certainly love all the nuances in the overall storyline for these characters.
Please, please grab the whole series - you'll race through the stories and love them all!
This case runs to the same brilliant formula as the other 3 books and it's one that we know and love!
Something bad will happen, we'll be given our clues and suspects and have time to make our theories....
But be careful - you might miss something vital....which, you've guessed it, I did!
I honestly thought I'd cracked this one early on, definitely with the who....but was still intrigued by the why!?
Well, nope! Once again, I was almost to the end and here came the curveballs - one after the other - and then the total shocker of the reveal, where I had to pause and admonish myself for having completely missed it.....again!!
PJ really has a way of drawing you into the action throughout, with some skillful writing, great characters, interesting side stories and humour to boot!
I often find certain scenes extremely relatable (yes! I mean the m&s one!) and the diversity in characters means that you will easily connect and empathise with at least some of them, if not all!
This was another extremely enjoyable read and I can't wait to see what comes next.....
March 5, 2024
PJ Skinner and her cozy mystery series is on my autobuy list, and for good reason. If you’re a cozy mystery reader, Skinner’s series is a prime example of the genre.
Tanya, our whip-smart, strong female lead is an ex-journalist with a vulnerable side who can solve crimes better than the cops, and they know. They suggest she should join the force, but she resists, as all good cozy leading ladies do. In a flip of the usual script, she’s divorced from the local leading cop instead of dating him, though he was pursuing her again right up until this book, which is about his wedding to another woman.
Our zany cast of characters is back in full force, ready to help George get married, and get him out of Tanya’s hair once and for all. And George, in typical George fashion, has asked Tanya to plan his wedding, really pushing the boundaries on their “friendship” and testing her budding relationship with Harry. A potential baby sibling has Mouse in all kinds of new emotions, and Tanya as well.
Skinner weaves together the main murder mystery plot with the emotional, character subplots so beautifully. While the mystery and murder are of course important, I know the majority of us – especially cozy readers – truly come for the relationships and the characters. We come back to visit with the zany townspeople who feel like old friends. Adorable, sweet Mouse, dreamy Ghita, busybody Rhoz, and all the other quirky friends that make the city come alive. The will-they-won’t-they between Harry and Tanya, and for awhile Tanya and George, keeps us turning pages. And the shock of twists and thrills will keep us coming back book after book.
The world Skinner has created in Seacastle is a cozy, delightful one that any cozy reader will want to visit again and again, no matter how many times the author delights us with new chances. I can’t wait to catch up with Tanya and the rest of the crew when the next book is ready!
If you love cozy mysteries full of loveable characters, murder that seems almost beside the point, low-stakes love triangles, and strong female leads, this is the series for you. I’d start with the first book, which is Deadly Returns. You could theoretically read them as a standalone, but I think you would lose a lot of context reading them that way, but others may not agree.
Content Warning: Pregnancy, Death, Infidelity, Divorce, Child Death, Murder, Violence, Adult Language, Parent Death
Tanya, our whip-smart, strong female lead is an ex-journalist with a vulnerable side who can solve crimes better than the cops, and they know. They suggest she should join the force, but she resists, as all good cozy leading ladies do. In a flip of the usual script, she’s divorced from the local leading cop instead of dating him, though he was pursuing her again right up until this book, which is about his wedding to another woman.
Our zany cast of characters is back in full force, ready to help George get married, and get him out of Tanya’s hair once and for all. And George, in typical George fashion, has asked Tanya to plan his wedding, really pushing the boundaries on their “friendship” and testing her budding relationship with Harry. A potential baby sibling has Mouse in all kinds of new emotions, and Tanya as well.
Skinner weaves together the main murder mystery plot with the emotional, character subplots so beautifully. While the mystery and murder are of course important, I know the majority of us – especially cozy readers – truly come for the relationships and the characters. We come back to visit with the zany townspeople who feel like old friends. Adorable, sweet Mouse, dreamy Ghita, busybody Rhoz, and all the other quirky friends that make the city come alive. The will-they-won’t-they between Harry and Tanya, and for awhile Tanya and George, keeps us turning pages. And the shock of twists and thrills will keep us coming back book after book.
The world Skinner has created in Seacastle is a cozy, delightful one that any cozy reader will want to visit again and again, no matter how many times the author delights us with new chances. I can’t wait to catch up with Tanya and the rest of the crew when the next book is ready!
If you love cozy mysteries full of loveable characters, murder that seems almost beside the point, low-stakes love triangles, and strong female leads, this is the series for you. I’d start with the first book, which is Deadly Returns. You could theoretically read them as a standalone, but I think you would lose a lot of context reading them that way, but others may not agree.
Content Warning: Pregnancy, Death, Infidelity, Divorce, Child Death, Murder, Violence, Adult Language, Parent Death
March 19, 2024
‘Toxic Vows’ is a brilliant whodunit that is packed full of tension, misdirection and full of humour! This is the fourth book in the ‘Seacastle Mysteries’ but it can easily be read as a standalone mystery. However, I do thoroughly recommend the whole series as they are brilliant cosy reads! All the characters are beginning to feel like old friends, yes even George. It's just such a pleasure to pick up one of these books as you know you are guaranteed a great read!
Tanya Bowe run a second-hand vintage shop and cafe in the town of Seacastle and lives with her stepson Mouse. She is finally getting rid of her ex-husband George as he is marrying the woman he left Tanya for. But he has asked Tanya to organize the wedding and she says yes! He is even holding it where him and Tanya got married. On the day things start to go wrong and when the bride is found dead, Tanya finds herself right in the middle of the investigation and this time she is under the spotlight!
PJ is now on my auto-buy list especially when there is murder involved! But for many, when it comes to cosy crime it's not really the crime aspect that draws us back time and time again it's the roster of brilliant characters that populate this world. Tanya is an amazing protagonist - intelligent, feisty, full of empathy, loyalty and love. But there is also a vulnerable side to her and is open about her mental health problems. I love her relationship with her stepson Mouse and boyfriend Harry. It's also her troop of highly entertaining friends, Roz, Ghita and Grace and of course, there is now Hector the seagull!
PJ has really found her groove with this series and it's her brilliant writing and intriguing mysteries that keep me coming back. I read a lot of crime fiction and this is some of the best cosy crime out there at the moment and definitely deserves more recognition! As soon as I finish reading a book I am already clamouring for more and surely that is a good sign. Roll on book five!
Let me know if you pick this one up.
Tanya Bowe run a second-hand vintage shop and cafe in the town of Seacastle and lives with her stepson Mouse. She is finally getting rid of her ex-husband George as he is marrying the woman he left Tanya for. But he has asked Tanya to organize the wedding and she says yes! He is even holding it where him and Tanya got married. On the day things start to go wrong and when the bride is found dead, Tanya finds herself right in the middle of the investigation and this time she is under the spotlight!
PJ is now on my auto-buy list especially when there is murder involved! But for many, when it comes to cosy crime it's not really the crime aspect that draws us back time and time again it's the roster of brilliant characters that populate this world. Tanya is an amazing protagonist - intelligent, feisty, full of empathy, loyalty and love. But there is also a vulnerable side to her and is open about her mental health problems. I love her relationship with her stepson Mouse and boyfriend Harry. It's also her troop of highly entertaining friends, Roz, Ghita and Grace and of course, there is now Hector the seagull!
PJ has really found her groove with this series and it's her brilliant writing and intriguing mysteries that keep me coming back. I read a lot of crime fiction and this is some of the best cosy crime out there at the moment and definitely deserves more recognition! As soon as I finish reading a book I am already clamouring for more and surely that is a good sign. Roll on book five!
Let me know if you pick this one up.
March 12, 2024
The Seacastle Musteries has quickly become one of my favourite cosy crime series. Toxic Vows is the fourth book in the series from PJ Skinner. This time around, Tanya is finally going to be free of her ex-husband, George, as he is set to marry Sharon in the wake of the news that he’s going to be a father again. Tanya is running short of money, as are her friends and fellow business owners, so she agrees to plan the wedding with the help of her friends, so they can all make a bit of cash. However, the day doesn’t go to plan, as big secrets are revealed and the bride is murdered. With George being the prime, suspect, Tanya sets out to find the real killer with the help of her partner Harry, her stepson Mouse and the gang. I love this cast of characters: Tanya, with her strength and determination, Harry, who loves Tanya, and is loyal and supportive, Mouse, who is just a mixed up teenager, but he’s finally found his home with Tanya and Harry. As well as the whole host of eclectic characters in their friendship circle. I have to say that I didn’t really like George at first, but I’ve warmed to him over the course of the series, and I really felt for him this time around. The setting of the village of Seacastle is perfect – it’s just the right place for a good old fashioned murder mystery as it’s the last place you’d expect it. The plot was great and full of twists and turns. The ending was a complete surprise when the killer was revealed. The author always provides plenty of red herrings to produce a surprising end. The book is very well written and pacey, with no pauses in the action. I quickly devoured it in one go. I’m really looking forward to more from Tanya and her gang. The biggest question that remains is will Tanya ever get to pet Hades?! I highly recommend this book to any cosy crime fan.
March 1, 2024
Toxic Vows: A Gripping British Cozy Mystery by P.J. Skinner is the 4th book in the Sea-castle Mysteries, kept me on the edge of my seat. If book 4 was this good then I’m going to have to go backwards and read all of them.
Tanya Bowe is a former investigative journalist, newly divorced from D.I. George Carter, and depressed. Tanya’s life is never dull between dealing with George, her step child Andrew Carter “Mouse”, crazy bunch of friends, and her sisters. One day George asks her to help him plan his wedding to Sharon Walsh who is pregnant.
On the day of the wedding, hours after they say “I Do” Sharon is found dead from a falling object. Now everyone who was there is a suspect including new husband George. George’s worst enemy D.I. Antrim is the lead detective on the case and would love more than anything to prove that George either had something to do with it or did it. So Tanya, having to step in and help George out again, has to dust off her investigating skills and help solve the murder.
I thought this was such a great small English town murder mystery that kept me hooked from page one. Not only did she write a great book, but the characters were perfect for the story. I cannot wait to go back and read the first 3 and just learned there is going to be a 5th book. I need to get caught up before that one comes out. Thank you to Love Book Tours and P.J. Skinner for letting me be a part of this tour and letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
Tanya Bowe is a former investigative journalist, newly divorced from D.I. George Carter, and depressed. Tanya’s life is never dull between dealing with George, her step child Andrew Carter “Mouse”, crazy bunch of friends, and her sisters. One day George asks her to help him plan his wedding to Sharon Walsh who is pregnant.
On the day of the wedding, hours after they say “I Do” Sharon is found dead from a falling object. Now everyone who was there is a suspect including new husband George. George’s worst enemy D.I. Antrim is the lead detective on the case and would love more than anything to prove that George either had something to do with it or did it. So Tanya, having to step in and help George out again, has to dust off her investigating skills and help solve the murder.
I thought this was such a great small English town murder mystery that kept me hooked from page one. Not only did she write a great book, but the characters were perfect for the story. I cannot wait to go back and read the first 3 and just learned there is going to be a 5th book. I need to get caught up before that one comes out. Thank you to Love Book Tours and P.J. Skinner for letting me be a part of this tour and letting me read this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts and opinions.
March 31, 2024
A shotgun marriage leads to deadly celebrations in this gripping English seaside cozy mystery.
D.I. George Carter's wedding takes a sinister turn, when the bride is discovered lifeless, mere hours after their vows. Reluctant guest, Tanya Bowe, an investigative journalist turned local sleuth, who also happens to be George’s ex-wife, finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation. Suspicion falls squarely on George, and a rival detective is determined to pin the crime on him.
This contemporary cozy British mystery is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is seaside with magnificent sunrises and sunsets that are vibrantly painted across the skies, and characters that are intelligent, witty, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with toxic vows in this gripping British cozy mystery in a small town where Tanya must rescue her ex-husband from murder charges, drama, heartfelt emotions, adventure, action, sleuthing skills, underlying tensions bubbling, finally escaping the past, seaside settings, incredible plots, a dash of humor, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate their readers' hearts and attention with toxic vows and a cozy British mystery that is sure to have readers transported into a world full of suspense and mystery that is unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
D.I. George Carter's wedding takes a sinister turn, when the bride is discovered lifeless, mere hours after their vows. Reluctant guest, Tanya Bowe, an investigative journalist turned local sleuth, who also happens to be George’s ex-wife, finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation. Suspicion falls squarely on George, and a rival detective is determined to pin the crime on him.
This contemporary cozy British mystery is page-turning with exceptional world-building that is seaside with magnificent sunrises and sunsets that are vibrantly painted across the skies, and characters that are intelligent, witty, captivating, and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with toxic vows in this gripping British cozy mystery in a small town where Tanya must rescue her ex-husband from murder charges, drama, heartfelt emotions, adventure, action, sleuthing skills, underlying tensions bubbling, finally escaping the past, seaside settings, incredible plots, a dash of humor, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate their readers' hearts and attention with toxic vows and a cozy British mystery that is sure to have readers transported into a world full of suspense and mystery that is unforgettable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 17, 2024
TOXIC VOWS is another well-crafted cozy mystery and the fourth installment in PJ Skinner's The Seacastle Mysteries series. Ms. Skinner does a fantastic job creating the characters and making them real and believable. Each of the characters have flaws that make them relatable to real life. The plotting and drama, along with the love triangles and mystery will keep you turning the pages to the end to discover who "did it".
Tanya Carter was an investigative journalist before clinical depression and a divorce turned her life upside down. With a few faithful friends she is putting her life back together.
Tanya has been asked to organize her ex-husband's wedding. He looks so pitiful she reluctantly says yes. She'll hire her friends to cater, decorate and so forth, shouldn't be too hard. Right?
That was Tanya's first mistake. Before this wedding is over, there will be secrets and more secrets, dead bodies and more secrets, twists and turns.
So many suspects, so many motives eventually leading to a satisfying conclusion thanks to Tanya's determined pursuit of the truth.
Each of these stories are part of a continuing story line, but can be read as stand-alone mysteries. I suggest starting with the first story (The Deadly Return) to get the maximum enjoyment from the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Tanya Carter was an investigative journalist before clinical depression and a divorce turned her life upside down. With a few faithful friends she is putting her life back together.
Tanya has been asked to organize her ex-husband's wedding. He looks so pitiful she reluctantly says yes. She'll hire her friends to cater, decorate and so forth, shouldn't be too hard. Right?
That was Tanya's first mistake. Before this wedding is over, there will be secrets and more secrets, dead bodies and more secrets, twists and turns.
So many suspects, so many motives eventually leading to a satisfying conclusion thanks to Tanya's determined pursuit of the truth.
Each of these stories are part of a continuing story line, but can be read as stand-alone mysteries. I suggest starting with the first story (The Deadly Return) to get the maximum enjoyment from the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2024
Toxic Vows follows Tanya Bowe, an investigative journalist turned local sleuth, who is a reluctant guest at D.I. George Carter’s wedding and also happens to be George’s ex-wife. She finds herself at the centre of a murder investigation when his bride is discovered lifeless mere hours after their wedding vows.
I really enjoyed the unique setting for this murder mystery. The small town vibe’s definitely bring a drama of their own. The descriptions of the settings are so well written that you will quickly be immersed within the story. The cast of characters are interesting and you can’t help but love the main characters throughout the book. The writing makes this an easy read and the setting adds to the cosy atmosphere. The mystery builds on as you read and you will quickly find yourself second guessing what you think you may know.
Toxic Vows is another gripping English seaside cozy mystery from P J Skinner. The storyline flowed well and kept you engaged from beginning to end. If you enjoy seaside settings, intricate plots, cozy mysteries and a dash of humour then this is definitely one for you to read. You can read this as a standalone but I would highly recommend that you read the others first if you want to understand more about the characters and how they got to where they are. Toxic Vows is a quick and entertaining read and I highly recommend it!
I really enjoyed the unique setting for this murder mystery. The small town vibe’s definitely bring a drama of their own. The descriptions of the settings are so well written that you will quickly be immersed within the story. The cast of characters are interesting and you can’t help but love the main characters throughout the book. The writing makes this an easy read and the setting adds to the cosy atmosphere. The mystery builds on as you read and you will quickly find yourself second guessing what you think you may know.
Toxic Vows is another gripping English seaside cozy mystery from P J Skinner. The storyline flowed well and kept you engaged from beginning to end. If you enjoy seaside settings, intricate plots, cozy mysteries and a dash of humour then this is definitely one for you to read. You can read this as a standalone but I would highly recommend that you read the others first if you want to understand more about the characters and how they got to where they are. Toxic Vows is a quick and entertaining read and I highly recommend it!
March 3, 2024
I love this series so much! It’s full of wonderful characters, not just the main characters in Tanya, George and Harry but also the supporting characters especially Mouse. This whole series has been a delight to read and if you are new to the series you can start at book four and still really enjoy it but don’t miss out on the first three books.
In Toxic Vows George finds himself in a really tight spot after his bride is found dead. I felt a little sorry for Sharon in this book. She has never been a character I have liked and her actions towards George have been pretty awful but she didn’t deserve to end up like this. Tanya is really growing in confidence throughout this novel and I think George finally realises what he has lost.
This novel twists and turns and the whole series is like a cosy warm blanket that wraps you up. I didn’t want this novel to end and I hope the next book is available soon to read.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
In Toxic Vows George finds himself in a really tight spot after his bride is found dead. I felt a little sorry for Sharon in this book. She has never been a character I have liked and her actions towards George have been pretty awful but she didn’t deserve to end up like this. Tanya is really growing in confidence throughout this novel and I think George finally realises what he has lost.
This novel twists and turns and the whole series is like a cosy warm blanket that wraps you up. I didn’t want this novel to end and I hope the next book is available soon to read.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
March 1, 2024
Another cosy mystery hit!
After previously reading a book by Skinner last year I was super excited to dive into her newest novel and I have to say this one was as good as the last one! I really enjoyed the unique setting for this murder mystery and as with every book by this author the descriptions of the settings are so well written that you will quickly be immersed within the story.
Im not going to lie I was definitely very suspicious of George at the start, but the mystery builds on as you read and you will quickly find yourself second guessing what you think you may know, and who done it the deeper you get into the novel. I sat down over the weekend and devoured this in two days, super cosy feels but you will still be on the edge of your seat wanting to know what's going to come next! I really enjoyed the characters in this novel, especially Tanya, who else is planning their exes shotgun wedding. She was a strong character that you cant help but like from the start.
After previously reading a book by Skinner last year I was super excited to dive into her newest novel and I have to say this one was as good as the last one! I really enjoyed the unique setting for this murder mystery and as with every book by this author the descriptions of the settings are so well written that you will quickly be immersed within the story.
Im not going to lie I was definitely very suspicious of George at the start, but the mystery builds on as you read and you will quickly find yourself second guessing what you think you may know, and who done it the deeper you get into the novel. I sat down over the weekend and devoured this in two days, super cosy feels but you will still be on the edge of your seat wanting to know what's going to come next! I really enjoyed the characters in this novel, especially Tanya, who else is planning their exes shotgun wedding. She was a strong character that you cant help but like from the start.
March 10, 2024
I have not read any of the previous books in this series and I definitely want to read them now. This book had me so enthralled I just couldn’t put it down and sat reading it from cover to cover in a day. I loved the characters and warmed to all the nice ones. Not the baddies but they were interesting too. I found myself trying to work out whodunnit and changing my mind with every twist in the plot. I never expected it to be….! No plot spoilers from me.
Alongside the murder mystery is the fascinating stories of who loves who and the amazingly interesting characters on the sidelines. Oh what tangled lives we live and the author takes us through some fascinating tangled relationships. I can’t believe she managed to get so many plots and sub plots into one book. I just can’t wait to read the others in this series and more please.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Alongside the murder mystery is the fascinating stories of who loves who and the amazingly interesting characters on the sidelines. Oh what tangled lives we live and the author takes us through some fascinating tangled relationships. I can’t believe she managed to get so many plots and sub plots into one book. I just can’t wait to read the others in this series and more please.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2024
Overall, it's a solid ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
I love a good cosy mystery to break up all the thrillers I like to read. This is my first outing with Tanya and the crew from the Seacastle Mysteries series, and I definitely would read the others! I would say read the others first, if you want to understand more about the characters and how they got to where they are, but with how the author sets the scene and includes important details from previous books you can read this with out reading the others.
You can't help but love the main characters throughout this, with the exception of the ex husband, did want to shake him - who gets their ex to plan their upcoming wedding?! But it would have changed the plot if she hadn't. The storyline flowed well and kept you engaged. It's a quick and entertaining read, and I would highly recommend it!
I love a good cosy mystery to break up all the thrillers I like to read. This is my first outing with Tanya and the crew from the Seacastle Mysteries series, and I definitely would read the others! I would say read the others first, if you want to understand more about the characters and how they got to where they are, but with how the author sets the scene and includes important details from previous books you can read this with out reading the others.
You can't help but love the main characters throughout this, with the exception of the ex husband, did want to shake him - who gets their ex to plan their upcoming wedding?! But it would have changed the plot if she hadn't. The storyline flowed well and kept you engaged. It's a quick and entertaining read, and I would highly recommend it!
March 12, 2024
I love a cozy mystery and I am so glad I had the opportunity to read Toxic Vows by P. J. Skinner. It is book 4 in the Seacastle Mystery series but it is the first one I have read and I had no trouble enjoying this. Now I need to go back and read the first three books! Set in an English village with a cast of quirky characters to support Tanya as she solves mysteries it has all the things I look for in a cozy mystery series. Tanya is strong, relatable, and resourceful and has somehow agreed to arrange (and attend) a wedding for her ex-husband George. When the bride turns up dead and George is a suspect Tanya starts investigating what happened. Will she figure it out before it is too late? This mystery celebrates family and friendship and was a delight. I highly recommend it.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
Thanks to the author and Love Book Tours for providing a copy for my honest review.
July 4, 2024
I loved this cozy crime mystery, from the off set I was gripped. My jaw was literally on the floor with George's requests/behaviour and I wondered why Tanya went along with it, but the more I read the more I understood her reasoning.
The crime itself had me wracking my brain as who could have done it, I really couldn't guess and I enjoyed the storytelling as I found out the reveal.
I really love the way PJ Skinner writes these novels, they have a down to earth kinda feel and I love that for me they're on the level of Murder She Wrote. Tanya is very much a Jessica Fletcher and I love that. I love the cosiness of the novel as I'm reading. Toxic Vows is probably my favourite one as I loved the twists and turns, I liked how Mouse developed too, I felt for him a little at the end.
I'm happy to see that there's a book 5 in this collection as I can't wait to travel back to Seacastle.
The crime itself had me wracking my brain as who could have done it, I really couldn't guess and I enjoyed the storytelling as I found out the reveal.
I really love the way PJ Skinner writes these novels, they have a down to earth kinda feel and I love that for me they're on the level of Murder She Wrote. Tanya is very much a Jessica Fletcher and I love that. I love the cosiness of the novel as I'm reading. Toxic Vows is probably my favourite one as I loved the twists and turns, I liked how Mouse developed too, I felt for him a little at the end.
I'm happy to see that there's a book 5 in this collection as I can't wait to travel back to Seacastle.
March 6, 2024
Can I just say, I LOVE this series, and if any series has the perfect cosy vibes of a mystery, it's this one!
This easily earns its 4.5 star rating from me and is a must read
I love the characters in this series. Tanya was likeable and endearing in book one, but has developed so fantastically. I love seeing her more self confident and things finally happening for her.
Mouse and a cast of side characters make this such a well rounded story and the series is just so enjoyable.
Funny, twisty, great mysteries, loveable characters, a quaint English seaside town and just an all round great read.
This book CAN be read as a standalone, but honestly do yourself the favour and start at book one Deadly Return because honestly you'll want to read them all once you've read one!
This easily earns its 4.5 star rating from me and is a must read
I love the characters in this series. Tanya was likeable and endearing in book one, but has developed so fantastically. I love seeing her more self confident and things finally happening for her.
Mouse and a cast of side characters make this such a well rounded story and the series is just so enjoyable.
Funny, twisty, great mysteries, loveable characters, a quaint English seaside town and just an all round great read.
This book CAN be read as a standalone, but honestly do yourself the favour and start at book one Deadly Return because honestly you'll want to read them all once you've read one!
May 16, 2024
Another fabulous read by PJ Skinner, Toxic Vows is the fourth book in the ‘Seacastle Mysteries’ but it can easily be read as a standalone mystery.
Tanya Bowe runs a second-hand vintage shop and cafe in the town of Seacastle and lives with her stepson Mouse. Her ex-husband George is marrying the woman he left Tanya for, but has asked Tanya to organize the wedding and she says yes! The wedding day doesn’t go quite to plan and when the bride is found dead, Tanya finds herself right in the middle of the investigation and she is under the spotlight!
None of the books in this series have disappointed me, they are an absolute pleasure to read and I can’t wait to read book five.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
Tanya Bowe runs a second-hand vintage shop and cafe in the town of Seacastle and lives with her stepson Mouse. Her ex-husband George is marrying the woman he left Tanya for, but has asked Tanya to organize the wedding and she says yes! The wedding day doesn’t go quite to plan and when the bride is found dead, Tanya finds herself right in the middle of the investigation and she is under the spotlight!
None of the books in this series have disappointed me, they are an absolute pleasure to read and I can’t wait to read book five.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
February 25, 2024
Warm and clever. Tanja is begged by her ex-husband to plan his new marriage. To her distress, she is convinced to say yes. At least she can charge him, and her friends will have a part in the catering too. If only the bride didn't get killed by a falling object just after the ceremony! She and ex-husband George are definitely suspects, so what's to do but to find out the truth? A great plot, smooth writing, wit, lovely description, and the wonderful characters keep you turning pages. The best yet in this great series. (Do read the previous ones first, if you can, to get to know the characters well.) - I received a review copy and freely leave this honest review.
February 29, 2024
This is Book Four in 'The Seacastle Mysteries' I've had the pleasure of reading and review the other three books in the series. I've been waiting for this book coming out to see what PJ had instore for us and I wasn't disappointed. I don't want to say to much as I don't like spoiling the plot for anyone, so all I will say is Tanya has another murder to solve, but this one is closer to home than she wants it to be, but it's not going to stop her. PJ has added twists that will think you have it, but you won't, not till the end. I would highly recommend that you read the full series, you'll definitely won't be disappointed
March 14, 2024
Tanya is back and this time it’s personal! Or at least that’s how it seems given the identity of the main suspect and Tanya’s former relationship with him. Picking up a Seacastle Mystery is like meeting an old friend for afternoon tea - one that always has hours worth of gossip! The books in this series are comforting in a way, because the characters feel so familiar but there is also tension and suspense and sometimes mortal danger, so it isn’t all Earl Grey and cucumber sandwiches! I honestly can’t get enough of these books. They are always great value, a good solid read with warmth and danger in equal measure. An easy five stars from me.
March 31, 2024
Who Killed the Bride?
George, Tanya’s ex-husband is getting married again, but at the wedding, someone kills the bride. George, it so happens, has a good reason to be angry with Sharon. What is the reason for his anger, and is he furious enough to kill her? Tanya does not believe that he is the killer, but where does she start to look? Who has an interest in killing Sharon, and why?
There will be a complicated web of lies and deceit. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end. I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to those who like small-town, British cozy mysteries.
George, Tanya’s ex-husband is getting married again, but at the wedding, someone kills the bride. George, it so happens, has a good reason to be angry with Sharon. What is the reason for his anger, and is he furious enough to kill her? Tanya does not believe that he is the killer, but where does she start to look? Who has an interest in killing Sharon, and why?
There will be a complicated web of lies and deceit. The plot twists will keep you guessing until the very end. I enjoyed this story and would recommend it to those who like small-town, British cozy mysteries.
April 14, 2024
A non-stop roller coaster ride - Tanya gets roped into planning her ex-husband's wedding. To the woman for whom he left her! Of course that wedding was not going to be uneventful. The bride winds up in a bodybag and the list of suspects is as long as Tanya's arm. The groom, the betrayed ex-wife, even members of the bride's family. Everyone at the ceremony is under suspicion. A twisted cozy mystery that grabs your attention from the start, keeping you guessing 'til the very end. I never saw the ending coming.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 29, 2024
Not having read the previous 3 books, I read this as a standalone.
It was a great read, a who done it, murder mystery.
This book is beautifully written with clear descriptions, and it was very easy to follow along.
This book follows Tanya, who was asked to plan her ex husbands new wedding, but a couple of hours after the vows, the bride is found dead.
I did kinda mark out who I thought did it as I was reading. I don't want to say too much about the book so as not to spoil it for anyone, but this book did not disappoint.
And I will definitely be reading the previous books.
It was a great read, a who done it, murder mystery.
This book is beautifully written with clear descriptions, and it was very easy to follow along.
This book follows Tanya, who was asked to plan her ex husbands new wedding, but a couple of hours after the vows, the bride is found dead.
I did kinda mark out who I thought did it as I was reading. I don't want to say too much about the book so as not to spoil it for anyone, but this book did not disappoint.
And I will definitely be reading the previous books.
March 13, 2024
Read if you like
🦋cozy murder mystery
🦋funny reads
🦋lovable characters
🦋Twists , twists and twists
This is the fourth book in the series although I haven’t read the others I’ll definitely be reading them now. It took me a little time to get into the story but once I did I was pleasantly captivated. The characters are so amazingly written. It's hilarious a small-town cosy murder mystery with lovable and sweet characters (mostly😂) This book had me stunned and I loved every second of it. It has so many plots and sub-plots which kept me thoroughly entertained. It's certainly worth a read.
🦋cozy murder mystery
🦋funny reads
🦋lovable characters
🦋Twists , twists and twists
This is the fourth book in the series although I haven’t read the others I’ll definitely be reading them now. It took me a little time to get into the story but once I did I was pleasantly captivated. The characters are so amazingly written. It's hilarious a small-town cosy murder mystery with lovable and sweet characters (mostly😂) This book had me stunned and I loved every second of it. It has so many plots and sub-plots which kept me thoroughly entertained. It's certainly worth a read.
March 30, 2024
Tanya is 'comfortable' with her ex husband marrying.... however she did not plan on being at the wedding as the caterer.
Then the new wife is murdered and her ex (a police officer) is the main suspect.
This story deals with rebuilding lives after relationships break down. Making strong friends. Overcoming or coming to terms with depression....
It is all done charmingly (except the murder) - it is how Tanya helps finds the true reason for the murder.
A great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Then the new wife is murdered and her ex (a police officer) is the main suspect.
This story deals with rebuilding lives after relationships break down. Making strong friends. Overcoming or coming to terms with depression....
It is all done charmingly (except the murder) - it is how Tanya helps finds the true reason for the murder.
A great read!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 19, 2025
Love them all
I haven't been able to read more of Skinner's books because of complications with the app. Now that's all settled, and I can again enjoy the colorful characters, the homey setting, and the intriguing plots. This series is keeping me involved as romances develop along with friendships and family bonding. I do wonder if the Cynthia from the prior book was named for me. I know that's pretty vain, but I feel ties to this author. She's never written a book that isn't completely engaging.
I haven't been able to read more of Skinner's books because of complications with the app. Now that's all settled, and I can again enjoy the colorful characters, the homey setting, and the intriguing plots. This series is keeping me involved as romances develop along with friendships and family bonding. I do wonder if the Cynthia from the prior book was named for me. I know that's pretty vain, but I feel ties to this author. She's never written a book that isn't completely engaging.
February 26, 2024
Having come into the series blind - not having read any of the previous books so far - I felt right at home. I love a gentle, cosy murder mystery.
Tanya and her very convoluted found family are adorable. Between Ex's, step-kid, current beau, former estranged sisters and assorted friends, Tanya's life is never dull!
I must admit I did want to punch George on more than one occasion. How did he become a DI! His treatment of Mouse really boiled my blood but Mouse was definitely the parent in that relationship.
Sadly as a someone who works for the blue emergency service, there are more than a few D.I. Antrim's strutting around! He's such a PITA!
The setting is beautifully described, the characters are multiple but fun and easy to organise in my head. The story had a few twists and turns and I DID earmark the baddie before the big reveal! I've already added the previous books to my tbr!
Tanya and her very convoluted found family are adorable. Between Ex's, step-kid, current beau, former estranged sisters and assorted friends, Tanya's life is never dull!
I must admit I did want to punch George on more than one occasion. How did he become a DI! His treatment of Mouse really boiled my blood but Mouse was definitely the parent in that relationship.
Sadly as a someone who works for the blue emergency service, there are more than a few D.I. Antrim's strutting around! He's such a PITA!
The setting is beautifully described, the characters are multiple but fun and easy to organise in my head. The story had a few twists and turns and I DID earmark the baddie before the big reveal! I've already added the previous books to my tbr!
March 1, 2024
With this book, the author has written yet another great addition to the Seacastle Mysteries series, with a plot that keeps you guessing right to the very end, as any good mystery should do! Although the book can be read as a standalone, the reader could benefit from reading the rest of the series. This will remove some of the mystery surrounding references in this book to earlier ones. This book also further develops the main characters of the series which adds to the interest in the story.
October 21, 2024
Another wonderful read about Tanya, Harry & Mouse + George & Sharon. George has to marry Sharon as she is pregnant. George sakes Tanya to organise the wedding, which, to her own amazement, she does. Then Sharon gets killed at the wedding reception, by a large stone pot falling on to her. So, with the Brighton DI a being happy for her help, Tanya & her “team” spring into action. Lots of exciting reading.
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