Death in Douglas Glade

The Milverton Mysteries #3

by G.B. Ralph

A scenic walk in nature isn’t Addison Harper’s idea of a good time, but with Sergeant Jake Murphy leading the way, he’s willing to give it a go.

After a picnic as delicious as his date, things are really looking up – that is, until Addison stumbles over something in the undergrowth. Bad news: it’s a dead body. Worse news: it’s his ex. And the last time they saw each other, a room full of people witnessed Addison wish him dead.

He should never have strayed from the path…

Death in Douglas Glade is the latest in a wonderful cosy mystery series set in an enchanting small town nestled amongst stunning New Zealand scenery. Investigate The Milverton Mysteries for a chaotic cast of local busybodies, delicious baked treats, a demanding and disdainful ginger cat, a very slow-burn romance with a rather appealing policeman, and of course… murder!

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Audiobook, Crime, M M Romance, Mystery, Murder Mystery, LGBT

331 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 2, 2024

About the author

G. B. Ralph is a Kiwi author of cosy mysteries and romantic comedies. His writing features chaotic yet lovable characters getting into trouble, an astonishing amount of crime, and handsome men falling for each other.

He’s currently documenting the increasingly implausible series of murders sweeping an enchanting small New Zealand town in The Milverton Mysteries, once described as “Agatha Christie, but make it gay.”

For updates, free short stories and to join his mailing list, visit gbralph.com

Reviews

[Aricka Decker · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Addison realised he could get used to this, with Jake. Not just the man cooking, though that was very nice, but having Jake in his life – this solid, sorted, purposeful, caring, and very handsome man. The thought filled Addison with warmth as he allowed his mind to wander, fantasising about such domesticity."


Back in Milverton with another cozy mystery. Sometimes I just get on a mystery kick and I have to fill it. Sadly, this is the last book in the series so far, so now I have to look elsewhere. And if I am being honest, that is hard to do. There are not a lot of mystery MM romance books that follow the same exact characters throughout, especially if you want something with a little spice. This series is not spicy, but still. I am running out of series to read, and that makes me want to cry.

Anyway, in Death in Douglas Glade we watch Addison try to figure out why his dick of an ex-boyfriend got murdered, while also wondering if Jake is finally going to pounce on his ass like Addison hopes he will. It is a good time, mostly because we actually get some development in the relationship between Jake and Addison. Nothing official yet, but we are getting somewhere.

I really enjoy the long, meandering slow roll and high detail of the most mundane things in these books. Like yes, let’s spend four chapters on Addison and Jake’s date. Yes, let’s spend another three getting that old lady a car. Why not. I enjoy it. This is the kind of book that is pure slice of life with a bit of murder and maybe a kiss or two, and I love that.

It is pure entertainment in my mind. I like long, slow stories, and this hits the spot every time. I am really glad I picked up this series, and I cannot wait to see how it continues.

[BeckieLouLou · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 stars. Audiobook. Wonderfully cozy mystery, amateur sleuthing, charming townsfolk, supportive but frustrated police romantic interest. All the best stuff from this genre, great writing, wonderful narration. The romance is a slow-burn, so well done, subtle smiles and chaste kisses is all you get for 2 books, by book three the couple is newly established and the hanky-panky is door closed, lights out, no detail. The cozy mystery is typically low heat, so that’s on-brand and expected. Also on brand is the chit-chat and gossip sleuthing, really great. Series of 5 books, but only the first three on audio, so I am not-so-patiently waiting for the rest of the audio, I enjoyed these characters so much, I’m very tempted to read the rest of the series with my eyes. That’s saying something!

Cozy mystery, amateur sleuthing, marketing, police sheriff, no heat, m/m, small town.

[Alastair H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly do not know how I found the time to read this book. But I absolutely LOVE this series so nothing was stopping me from finding out what happens to Addison next on his misadventures.

This one might have been my favorite yet, with the same cozy low angst plot of the first two combined with things between Jake and Addison finally moving along. This series is incredibly comforting and fun to read, you can relax and simply enjoy the comedic relief of all the colorful characters of Milverton, and Jake's exasperation as Addison stubbornly places himself into troublemaking situations

For any fans of cozy mystery with a little side dish of cute romance. I love all the characters and stories. Addison is the best sleuth ever, his personality keeps the low drama plot interesting. I get happy whenever I even think about these books and am eagerly awaiting the 4th installment.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent read/listen!

[Molly · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.75⭐️

Addison and Jake are out having a lovely time on a scenic walk complete with a delicious picnic date, until Addison stumbles over a grisly discovery. Connected to yet another dead body in Milverton's latest murder case, Addison searches for the killer to clear his name and find closure.

Addison and Jake are just starting to date, but a dead ex boyfriend does complicate things a bit. I'm glad to see they were able to bounce back and have a proper date, complete with chaperone Keith. I'm actually really enjoying the pace of their relationship. Addison is pretty open about his investigating with Jake, and Jake knows Addison enough to help him do it safely rather than stop him altogether. A cozy romance win right there. I really like Addison - he's relatable, personable, and inquisitive (as all good amateurs sleuths are). I really can't wait to see how he builds a life in Milverton.

The mystery started out pretty exciting, but as the book went on it just slowed down to a more meandering pace. And it's fine, but I wish the stories had a little more oomph to them. There's just so much going around talking to people, which may be realistic, but kind of draws out the story. For a cozy though, I can see the appeal in the low key investigative style. Milverton is a cute town and there's definitely a ton of quirky characters. I love the setting and I did get a few laughs, I just wish the pace was a bit faster. We get a little tease of what's next for Jake and Addison, and I'm looking forward to more Milverton mysteries.

Read if you like:
• cozy mystery
• small town
• slow burn

•••••••••••••••••••••

[Stepphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Going for a hike in the mountains behind Milverton isn’t exactly Addison’s idea of a great time, but it’s the people you’re with, rather than the places you go, that help make memories right?! And Addison is with Sergeant Jake (Hotty McHotty Pants) Murphy so it will be memorable because of it…. And of course, the body Addison stumbles across probably helps with the making it memorable thing.

It just so happens that Addison knows the deceased and was heard to be telling him how he wishes him to die in a creative manner, So Addison feels like he needs to prove his innocence and get to the bottom of what happened to his one-time fling.


G. B. Ralph takes us on an adventure through the town of Milverton and the mountain ranges at its back as we join Addison in finding out what is going on!

We meet new residents, fall more in love with old(er) ones, and get to know a LOT more about a certain Sergeant Hotty McHotty Pants. We see their relationship develop and you can’t help but feel a sense of satisfaction with the way it all unfolds.

Once again G. B. Ralph made me feel like part of the Scooby Squad as we worked with Addison to uncover who is behind the body in Douglas Glade. I was, at points, trying to verbally remind Addison about things that had happened when he went off searching for clues in, what I deemed to be, the wrong direction, only to be told that Addison is a work of fiction by my partner and that “He can’t hear you”…. Well that’s not how I felt while reading the story!

I’m looking forward to the next instalment of this series “Fright on Stage Right” scheduled to be released mid to late 2025

[Marsha L Respess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another wonderful story with Addison and Jake. Addison is on a hike with Jake and he stumbles over a dead body of an ex. The ex was a real creep and the more that Addison finds out(he of course cannot keep from investigating)about him the more terrible he turned out to be. Naturally his friend Mabel knows about their past and Addison reluctantly had to tell Jake about the awful breakup they had in a restaurant and I kept expecting it to come up and for Addison to be charged with murder or for it to be splashed all over the papers and it was a pleasant surprise that it wasn't. Dominic's cousin was an interesting woman and I was glad that she realized that Addison was not to blame. The scene where Mabel and Addison go to look at new cars and the salesman is so condescending to her and really only talks to Addison while Addison questions about the dead man was a hoot and the scene after Jake spent the night and the electrician and the gardener show up and spoil it all was bad and you worried that Jake was mad at him but later it is okay again. Of course Addison is attacked by being a victim of a hit and run because he was getting too close to the murderer and Jake was so sweet to him and it was very satisfying. Really looking forward to the next book but I hate having to wait until next year.

[Sarah · Rating 3 out of 5]

Listen. For whatever reason, I really enjoy these books; a queer cozy mystery series set in NZ is a definite treat for a kiwi. However…the writing does have some issues. The first is pacing; the writer goes into significant, sometimes exhaustive detail about things that are unnecessary to the story and bog down the narrative, while speeding through other things that should be treated in more depth. The MC also makes some silly decisions and/or behaves in ways that are not particularly believable to move the plot along, and the solution is arrived at essentially by accident, rather than the MC actually doing any real work to solve the mystery. Every other character seems to only exist to flirt with or fawn over Addison, which can get annoying. And the overall story is very linear, with the MC merely going around questioning one suspect after another until he quite literally tells the killer his suspicions by talking absently out loud in front of him, something that felt incredibly forced and unnatural.

All of which to say: these stories are fun reads, but it feels very much like the writer decided on the plot first, then shoehorned their characters into it by whatever means necessary, rather than letting things develop more organically. Will I pick up the next one? Absolutely — I’m looking forward to it! But I can’t say the writing style is my cup of tea.

[Christopher K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Three Times is an even better charm (and that’s saying a lot)..

In “Murder on Milverton Square”, I not only became enamored with the “slightly off kilter” protagonist, Addison Harper. Naturally, the handsome avenger, Sargent Jake Murphy was an outright winner for me but it was the quirky townsfolk that got in my DNA. So by the second installment, “Poison at Penshaw Hall”, I felt like I was coming home. Coupled with a new list of possible suspects and more of Addison’s misadventures and Jake’s repeated rescues, I was already ready to jump right in to #3, “Death in Douglas Glade”. And jump I did.
The “Milvertonians” are JUST as engaging, if not more. The relationship between Addison and Jake is all the more “lust enticing” and the danger and chills are ramped up as well.
And best I not forget Keith (and this coming from a “non-cat” person. This orange tabby is better than even “Garfield”‼️Now it’s just trying to last until September when #4, “Fright on Stage Right” is released and since I’ve thoroughly enjoyed each of the audiobooks, we’ll see how long I have to wait for it’s release because the narration is TOO good to pass up… 👏👏👏‼️

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am addicted to this series and all of its fun characters! This time it is an old acquaintance that Addison finds and is somewhat in the frame for. But the victim was a horrible person and the suspect list just keeps growing! Meanwhile there is the bit about Addison (who NEVER drove a car) "helping" his septuagenarian BFF, Mabel, shop for a replacement car. And, of course, there is that attraction between Addison and police Sgt Jake. Excellent read with hints at romance and lots of situational humor.
Philip Battley is excellent in his narration and delineates the characters very well. He is the perfect narrator for this fun series.
#DeathInDouglasGlade by G.B. Ralph @gbralph_ #MilvertonMysteriesBk3 narrated by Philip Battley @philbattley #cozymystery #murdermystery #newzealand #smalltown #amateursleuth #inheritance #septuagenarian #policesergeant @goodreads @bookbub @tantoraudio @librarythingofficial @barnesandnoble ***** Review #booksamillion #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #kobo #Waterstones #situationalhumor #witty @chirpbooks

[Kez · Rating 5 out of 5]

On the subject of comfort reads, the Milverton Mysteries have quickly installed themselves as one of my new favourites. Addison Harper arrived in Milverton in the first book of the series to settle the estate of the Uncle he didn't even know. It was meant to be a weekend trip, but Milverton doesn't want to let him go. In this book, Addison - normally a chaos-magnet - manages to out-awkward even himself when, finally on a date with the local hot police sergeant, he stumbles on a dead body. Of an ex.

Are the Milverton Mysteries the perfect cosy series? It's well up there, with lovable characters that are so easy to root for; time spent with this series is like hanging out with good friends. And I seriously need a Mabel Zhao in my life to kick my ass and sort me out. Full of warmth and humour (and the odd dead body), I know I'll be escaping to Milverton regularly.

[Kunni Biener · Rating 5 out of 5]

this series keeps it up. Often second and third books kind of drift off, but this series just gets deeper in character and interest. I would suggest reading them in order because of this, but this would be fine as a stand alone. The mystery is good, and because this is a cozy, I really didn't care about the character that died. I do care about the two heroes of the story. Don't let the MM put you off, in this book the characters finally do go to bed together, but that is the extent of the sex, they go upstairs and wake up the next morning. Don't let that discourage you from reading this series. I do want to give a shout out to the wonderful Keith, the cat that was inherited with the house. And so happy that this series will clearly continue.

[Gustavo Aviles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another excellent installment with my newest busy body amateur sleuth Addison Harper. These books are delightful reads and I’m very much looking forward to the fourth book.
There is, thankfully, more of Sergeant Jake Murphy in this book and how Addison and his relationship progresses. Addison cooks Jake dinner, which is, honestly, a testament to G.B. Ralph’s writing skills. I’ve never read a cooking scene infused with so much drama, tension and anxiety. I was on the edge hoping along with Addison that he did well and triumph in the end. It felt like a showstopper action scene.
Anyway, many of our favorite characters are back like Mable and Lynne and a host of new delightful folks are introduced.

[Shawn · Rating 2 out of 5]

I found the romance between Jake and Addison more interesting than the mystery. For me the fact that all three books in the series take place within a few weeks of each other did not work. There needed to be a passage of time between stories. Addison’s routine is becoming monotonous - still no clothes, still hasn’t stocked the kitchen with food, never actually works - with it all taking place right after each other there is no progression and how are they already dating like this if he has only been there a few weeks? Sorry I’m rambling.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are back with Addison. He is now seeing Jake and thinking about taking the mayor up on her offer and move permanently to Milverton.
Whilst out for a hike with Jake, Addison literally falls over a dead body in the woods and to make matters worse its an old flame of his.
Naturally he starts his own investigation and we meet a few more members of Milverton to add to the likes of Mabel.
Enjoyed this but a year until the final book comes out.

[Suze · Rating 4 out of 5]

Addison is back.
His relationship with Jake is heating up, still a bit uncertain at times but they are getting there!
But that doesn’t stop Addison falling over a body while they are on a scenic walk.
Addison does what he does best - get involved, despite a convoluted promise not to.
With few leads, it is the victim’s less than stellar personality which leads our intrepid investigator to the answer, via a hit and run, medical centre and camping store!

[nowyat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addison is the guy!

The one you want around if any puzzling murders happen! Not only can't he help himself, (he must ask questions), he brings a fun cast of characters along, from his hot policeman boyfriend to a mischevious elderly lady who loves adventure and all the gossipy locals, these stories are a great escape from boredom!

[Nick S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fun read and mystery for Addison. The characters and story take you for a ride and it’s always great to head back to Milverton. The romance blossoming, the witty Mabel, the experience of new characters and of course another murder. The pages will fly by as you dive in and be ready for the twists and turns and “will they won’t they” that Milverton always brings!

[Ed · Rating 5 out of 5]

Milverton murders

Another interesting story with engaging characters and within a marvellous setting. I’m hoping, though, that Milverton doesn’t become another Cabot Cove. Maybe the murders, or whatever, can happen a bit further out, so, not quite Milverton but close enough to include everyone we know. Looking forward to mid 2025 for the next instalment.

[Phillip Bollinger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just finished Death in Douglas Glade and loved it the mystery and romance, Mable and Keith. Can’t wait for more. I think renaming the series the incredibly inexplicable adventures of Addison Harper is perfect.
Already pre-ordered the next book in the series and will be encouraging the author to hurry up already.

Great cozy mystery series I highly recommend

[Joe McGowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

A tale from Kiwi Land

Death in Douglas Glade was really very good read, the character development continues as does the death rate. I was in NZ a few years back, it’s a wonderful country, and the Māori culture is fascinating. I mention this as I can picture the country side in my mind.

[Susie · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's a rare book that makes me read it in less than 10 hours, but this series is one I've smashed through. I love the quirky characters, the New Zealand setting, and the snappy dialogue, and I look forward to book 4.

[Damian · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did not enjoy this one.

Where do I start. Addison is completely sums about things. I read through nineteen relatively boring chapters an decided to skip to chapter thirty-six where the real guts of the story unfolds. This book wasn't like the first two. It just dragged.

[Neil Hart · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good light read

A light but enjoyable read, and good to follow Jake and Addison's relationship even though we all knew it was going to come to fruition from the very beginning.

I'll be reading book 4 when it becomes available

[briar ( sally a ) moss · Rating 5 out of 5]

Awesome books

Loved these books. Would like them to be televised. A lovely who done it set in A lovely town. Believable characters. A slow burn romantically between two men with good storylines.

[Rachel Clifton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great return to Milverton. Will have the image of Keith the cat sitting at the head of the table, peeking over the top with me for a while. Funny, sweet and a great mystery.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just lovely

This one is a little more romance than mystery, but it was time for that, honestly, and a delightful read.

[Stacy Mitchell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Addison and Jake!

This was a great addition to an amazing series, and I absolutely can’t wait for both the next book and Death in Douglas Glade to come out in Audible.

[David Van Horne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another totally delightful story. Each one is even better than the last. I can hardly wait for the fourth installment in this wonderful series.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great writing and plot but I'm a tiny bit tired of the same person being so involved as a potential suspect.