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Harbinder Kaur #2
The Postscript Murders: a gripping new mystery from the bestselling author of The Stranger Diaries
The ultimate gripping murder mystery for winter nights, from the bestselling author of The Stranger Diaries and the Dr Ruth Galloway Mysteries
' thanks for the murders.'
The death of a ninety-year-old woman with a heart condition should absolutely not be suspicious. DS Harbinder Kaur certainly sees nothing to concern her in carer Natalka's account of Peggy Smith's death.
But when Natalka reveals that Peggy lied about her heart condition and that she had been sure someone was following her...
And that Peggy Smith had been a 'murder consultant' who plotted deaths for authors, and knew more about murder than anyone has any right to...
And when clearing out Peggy's flat ends in Natalka being held at gunpoint by a masked figure...
Well then DS Harbinder Kaur thinks that maybe there is no such thing as an unsuspicious death after all.
From the sleepy seaside town of Shoreham to the granite streets of Aberdeen, The Postscript Murders is a literary mystery for fans of Anthony Horowitz, Agatha Christie and anyone who's ever wondered just how authors think up such realistic crimes...
Trust no one.
' thanks for the murders.'
The death of a ninety-year-old woman with a heart condition should absolutely not be suspicious. DS Harbinder Kaur certainly sees nothing to concern her in carer Natalka's account of Peggy Smith's death.
But when Natalka reveals that Peggy lied about her heart condition and that she had been sure someone was following her...
And that Peggy Smith had been a 'murder consultant' who plotted deaths for authors, and knew more about murder than anyone has any right to...
And when clearing out Peggy's flat ends in Natalka being held at gunpoint by a masked figure...
Well then DS Harbinder Kaur thinks that maybe there is no such thing as an unsuspicious death after all.
From the sleepy seaside town of Shoreham to the granite streets of Aberdeen, The Postscript Murders is a literary mystery for fans of Anthony Horowitz, Agatha Christie and anyone who's ever wondered just how authors think up such realistic crimes...
Trust no one.
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First published September 26, 2020
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About the author
Elly Griffiths
75 books9,488 followersElly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway novels take for their inspiration Elly's husband, who gave up a city job to train as an archaeologist, and her aunt who lives on the Norfolk coast and who filled her niece's head with the myths and legends of that area. Elly has two children and lives near Brighton. Though not her first novel, The Crossing Places is her first crime novel.
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June 20, 2024
The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths
The Postscript Murders gives us a cozy murder mystery, in the style of Agatha Christie. No in your face blood and guts, just a 90 year old woman who is such an expert on how to kill people that authors use her as their "murder consultant". But when Peggy dies, one of her caretakers, Natalka, gets suspicious for a number of reasons. Natalka had seen Peggy that morning and she was just fine, so Natalka, Benedict, the local coffee shack guy, and Edwin, Peggy's 80 year old neighbor, start brainstorming things they've found and become amateur murder sleuths, to the annoyance of DS Harbinder Kaur, who is the official investigator on the case. Peggy's death does seem suspicious, especially when an intruder holds a gun on Natalka and Benedict, while they are looking at crime books in the late Peggy's apartment.
We get to see things from the viewpoints of Natalka, Benedict, Edwin, Harbinder and others. Eventually Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin take off to an Aberdeen literary festival to do their snooping, and things get more dangerous and perplexing. Both Benedict and Harbinger are the most entertaining to me, with their inner thoughts on everything that was going on. Natalka brings to mind a beautiful spy (I'm not saying she is a spy), Edwin, at 80, is as suave as he was in his younger days, and Harbinder gets so irked by her partner Neil that she imagines he's a small woodland creature, although I don't think this helped her relationship with him, one bit.
Harbinder played a role in The Stranger Diaries but it's not necessary to read that book to enjoy this one. I hope we see more of Harbinder (and friends) in future books. I'd love to see things from the viewpoint of Neil, Harbinder's partner. As much as she thinks he drives her nuts, I suspect he has a few complaints of his own.
Pub: March 2 2021
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and NetGalley for this ARC.
The Postscript Murders gives us a cozy murder mystery, in the style of Agatha Christie. No in your face blood and guts, just a 90 year old woman who is such an expert on how to kill people that authors use her as their "murder consultant". But when Peggy dies, one of her caretakers, Natalka, gets suspicious for a number of reasons. Natalka had seen Peggy that morning and she was just fine, so Natalka, Benedict, the local coffee shack guy, and Edwin, Peggy's 80 year old neighbor, start brainstorming things they've found and become amateur murder sleuths, to the annoyance of DS Harbinder Kaur, who is the official investigator on the case. Peggy's death does seem suspicious, especially when an intruder holds a gun on Natalka and Benedict, while they are looking at crime books in the late Peggy's apartment.
We get to see things from the viewpoints of Natalka, Benedict, Edwin, Harbinder and others. Eventually Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin take off to an Aberdeen literary festival to do their snooping, and things get more dangerous and perplexing. Both Benedict and Harbinger are the most entertaining to me, with their inner thoughts on everything that was going on. Natalka brings to mind a beautiful spy (I'm not saying she is a spy), Edwin, at 80, is as suave as he was in his younger days, and Harbinder gets so irked by her partner Neil that she imagines he's a small woodland creature, although I don't think this helped her relationship with him, one bit.
Harbinder played a role in The Stranger Diaries but it's not necessary to read that book to enjoy this one. I hope we see more of Harbinder (and friends) in future books. I'd love to see things from the viewpoint of Neil, Harbinder's partner. As much as she thinks he drives her nuts, I suspect he has a few complaints of his own.
Pub: March 2 2021
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and NetGalley for this ARC.
October 2, 2020
4.5 stars
“If I’m ever killed, my TBR pile will be the murder weapon.”
The Postscript Murders is a tautly written murder mystery centered around the death of a 90-year-old woman who happens to have been a murder consultant.
When Peggy Smith, a 90-year-old woman, is found dead, no one believes foul play had a role in her death….that is no one but her Ukrainian carer, Natalka. Upon the discovery that Peggy served as a murder consultant, thinking up unique ways for characters to die, for popular and critically acclaimed authors, Natalka teams up with Edwin, an 80-year-old “ancient TV producer," and Benedict an “ex-monk-turned-coffee-shop owner” to investigate Peggy’s death. Detective Harbinder Kaur is brought into the fold.
Investigating Peggy’s death changes the lives of this motley and eccentric group of armchair detectives. It also makes an impact on Harbinder’s life.
There are multiple narrators, all of whom offer a unique perspective on the investigation. Natalka was my favorite character, followed by Benedict. But really, I loved all of the characters.
This is book two in the Harbinder Kaur series but can be read as a standalone. Clare and a few others who played a role in The Stranger Diaries make appearances, but it is not essential to read these books in order.
The Postscript Murders is a book for mystery lovers, especially those who are fans of jazz-age mysteries, as well for those who love to play the role of armchair detective. Clues are found in books, and I love the idea of a 90-year-old woman being credited with thinking up original murders for novelists to use in their books. My only gripe was that I wanted to know more about Peggy.
I loved every minute of this book! It is smart, witty, and full of wonderful book-related gems. I had so much fun reading it. The mystery has many layers, and all is not what it seems. The characters are developed, intelligent, and each lovable in their own way. I hope to see all of them again in future books!
“Is there really a world where people care so much about books that they write to the authors and consider them friends?”
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
“If I’m ever killed, my TBR pile will be the murder weapon.”
The Postscript Murders is a tautly written murder mystery centered around the death of a 90-year-old woman who happens to have been a murder consultant.
When Peggy Smith, a 90-year-old woman, is found dead, no one believes foul play had a role in her death….that is no one but her Ukrainian carer, Natalka. Upon the discovery that Peggy served as a murder consultant, thinking up unique ways for characters to die, for popular and critically acclaimed authors, Natalka teams up with Edwin, an 80-year-old “ancient TV producer," and Benedict an “ex-monk-turned-coffee-shop owner” to investigate Peggy’s death. Detective Harbinder Kaur is brought into the fold.
Investigating Peggy’s death changes the lives of this motley and eccentric group of armchair detectives. It also makes an impact on Harbinder’s life.
There are multiple narrators, all of whom offer a unique perspective on the investigation. Natalka was my favorite character, followed by Benedict. But really, I loved all of the characters.
This is book two in the Harbinder Kaur series but can be read as a standalone. Clare and a few others who played a role in The Stranger Diaries make appearances, but it is not essential to read these books in order.
The Postscript Murders is a book for mystery lovers, especially those who are fans of jazz-age mysteries, as well for those who love to play the role of armchair detective. Clues are found in books, and I love the idea of a 90-year-old woman being credited with thinking up original murders for novelists to use in their books. My only gripe was that I wanted to know more about Peggy.
I loved every minute of this book! It is smart, witty, and full of wonderful book-related gems. I had so much fun reading it. The mystery has many layers, and all is not what it seems. The characters are developed, intelligent, and each lovable in their own way. I hope to see all of them again in future books!
“Is there really a world where people care so much about books that they write to the authors and consider them friends?”
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 7, 2020
Elly Griffiths's sequel to The Stranger Diaries featuring the gay, Sikh DS Harbinder Kaur, in her thirties, yet still living with her parents, is a rather different affair, but a winner nevertheless with murder and mayhem set in the world of a crime writers community, literary agents, murder consultants and publishers. In Shoreham by the Sea, a West Sussex coastal town, 90 year old Peggy Smith sits by her window, observing the world outside, making notes in her investigation book, such as the appearance of two suspicious men in a car outside. When Ukrainian care worker, Natalka Kolsnyk finds Peggy dead in her chair by the window, it seems a straightforward natural death of an elderly woman. However, a number of strange oddities make Natalka wonder if it could be murder.
There is the business card proclaiming Peggy as a murder consultant, and so many of her crime books have the authors thanking her for her help, acknowledging her contribution to their crime novels. Then there is the postcard with the ominous message 'We are coming for you'. Natalka, a mathematics graduate, gifted in algorithms in cryptocurrencies, takes her concerns to Harbinder whose interest is aroused and cemented when Natalka and Edwin are disturbed by a gunman in Peggy's flat. Unwilling to leave the investigation in the hands of the police, Natalka, the gay 80 year old Edwin Fitzgerald, a former researcher and religious radio broadcaster and an ex-monk, Benedict Cole, who runs The Shack cafe, form a tight knit group. Each has been lonely in their own way, now proving to be remarkably adept and skilled amateur detectives as crime authors begin to be murdered, not put off in the slightest by the danger they find themselves in.
Griffiths excels in the creation and development of quirky characters in her crime novels, and Natalka, Edwin and Benny make for a wonderfully interesting bunch, each bringing their own specific qualities as they dig deep to get to the truth of the murders and Peggy's mysterious history. Trying to rein them in and protect them, all to little effect as they take off to a literary crime festival in Aberdeen, is Harbinder, with her acute observations, yearning for a romantic relationship, trying to be there for her beloved mother when she suffers an injury that puts her out of action for a little while. This is a wonderfully entertaining crime read, humorous, engaging and just so much fun to read, leaving me looking forward to the next in the series. Fans of Griffiths will love this. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
There is the business card proclaiming Peggy as a murder consultant, and so many of her crime books have the authors thanking her for her help, acknowledging her contribution to their crime novels. Then there is the postcard with the ominous message 'We are coming for you'. Natalka, a mathematics graduate, gifted in algorithms in cryptocurrencies, takes her concerns to Harbinder whose interest is aroused and cemented when Natalka and Edwin are disturbed by a gunman in Peggy's flat. Unwilling to leave the investigation in the hands of the police, Natalka, the gay 80 year old Edwin Fitzgerald, a former researcher and religious radio broadcaster and an ex-monk, Benedict Cole, who runs The Shack cafe, form a tight knit group. Each has been lonely in their own way, now proving to be remarkably adept and skilled amateur detectives as crime authors begin to be murdered, not put off in the slightest by the danger they find themselves in.
Griffiths excels in the creation and development of quirky characters in her crime novels, and Natalka, Edwin and Benny make for a wonderfully interesting bunch, each bringing their own specific qualities as they dig deep to get to the truth of the murders and Peggy's mysterious history. Trying to rein them in and protect them, all to little effect as they take off to a literary crime festival in Aberdeen, is Harbinder, with her acute observations, yearning for a romantic relationship, trying to be there for her beloved mother when she suffers an injury that puts her out of action for a little while. This is a wonderfully entertaining crime read, humorous, engaging and just so much fun to read, leaving me looking forward to the next in the series. Fans of Griffiths will love this. Many thanks to Quercus for an ARC.
March 1, 2023
Well this was definitely a surprise of a book coming from this author! I read and loved “The Stranger Diaries” and some of her Ruth Galloway books. I think those books had a more “sinister”, heavier feel to them.
Who has ever heard of a “murder consultant”?? Well in this book you will hear all about Peggy, a lovely woman who was considered just that. She helped authors find unique ways of “killing off their characters” and she was well known among murder mystery writers.
The book opens with her Ukranian caregiver, Natalka, finding Peggy dead at her desk. This is where she wrote her “investigations” and observations of the people passing in front of her bay window overlooking the sea. Her death was thought to be a heart attack, natural causes. She was said to have a known heart condition? Did she??
This starts the beginning of a very novel mystery. The lead detective assigned to the case, DS Harbinder Kaur, gets lots of help from Peggy’s friends in solving this case. There are many different ideas floated around but when others are found dead, supposedly of natural causes, there are suspicions of a possible serial killer?
The characters were amazing, here are some of them; the first 4 make up our murder solving investigators! I love how their relationships changed and how well these four worked together :
Edwin, Peggy’s friend used to frequently do crossword puzzles. He was a very close friend and is shocked at her death. He said he thought she was quite healthy.
Benedict is a former monk, he is a caring neighbor and thinks Peggy’s death is suspicious, he loves murder mysteries
Natalka, is an amazing caregiver, we see her change a lot during the book, in a good way. She found Peggy dead and was the first to suggest this might be murder!
Harbinger Kaur is a very interesting character, she seems to have a rough exterior but she shows another side of herself in this novel
Nigel, Peggy’s son who doesn’t seem to be in mourning for his mother, in fact he starts packing the flat up to sell as soon as he could. Why was he in such a hurry, something isn’t right here.
Multiple murder victims whose names I will not mention or that would spoil the surprise :)
I really enjoyed this book, it was a very different side of Ms.Griffiths that I have not read before. I would recommend this book, it was a good mystery, well plotted and had great characters that made me care about them.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley
This novel will be published on March 2, 2021
Who has ever heard of a “murder consultant”?? Well in this book you will hear all about Peggy, a lovely woman who was considered just that. She helped authors find unique ways of “killing off their characters” and she was well known among murder mystery writers.
The book opens with her Ukranian caregiver, Natalka, finding Peggy dead at her desk. This is where she wrote her “investigations” and observations of the people passing in front of her bay window overlooking the sea. Her death was thought to be a heart attack, natural causes. She was said to have a known heart condition? Did she??
This starts the beginning of a very novel mystery. The lead detective assigned to the case, DS Harbinder Kaur, gets lots of help from Peggy’s friends in solving this case. There are many different ideas floated around but when others are found dead, supposedly of natural causes, there are suspicions of a possible serial killer?
The characters were amazing, here are some of them; the first 4 make up our murder solving investigators! I love how their relationships changed and how well these four worked together :
Edwin, Peggy’s friend used to frequently do crossword puzzles. He was a very close friend and is shocked at her death. He said he thought she was quite healthy.
Benedict is a former monk, he is a caring neighbor and thinks Peggy’s death is suspicious, he loves murder mysteries
Natalka, is an amazing caregiver, we see her change a lot during the book, in a good way. She found Peggy dead and was the first to suggest this might be murder!
Harbinger Kaur is a very interesting character, she seems to have a rough exterior but she shows another side of herself in this novel
Nigel, Peggy’s son who doesn’t seem to be in mourning for his mother, in fact he starts packing the flat up to sell as soon as he could. Why was he in such a hurry, something isn’t right here.
Multiple murder victims whose names I will not mention or that would spoil the surprise :)
I really enjoyed this book, it was a very different side of Ms.Griffiths that I have not read before. I would recommend this book, it was a good mystery, well plotted and had great characters that made me care about them.
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley
This novel will be published on March 2, 2021
January 2, 2021
The second book in the Harbinder Kaur series and it is an absolute delight!
The Postscript Murders is a murder mystery but it tends strongly towards cosy with several of the characters acting as amateur detectives and getting themselves into all kinds of difficulties. Luckily the police are involved and do actually maintain control of the investigations most of the time.
This is a book about books and their authors, publishers and literary agents. There are also retired wartime spies spending their time creating new ways for book characters to die, Ukrainian refugees out for revenge and an aged care nurse working the bitcoin market in her free time. All good fun and written so nicely it never becomes too over the top.
Elly Griffiths has a light touch in this book. There is plenty of humour, especially from Harbinder herself. She has her own wonderful ways of dealing internally with implied racism and with her partner's foibles. The three amateur detectives, Natalka, Edwin and Benedict are all beautifully drawn and make you cross your fingers that things will end well for them.
I know it was a good book because I found myself reading bits out loud to anyone who was listening. I thought it was good fun, very well written and totally entertaining.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The Postscript Murders is a murder mystery but it tends strongly towards cosy with several of the characters acting as amateur detectives and getting themselves into all kinds of difficulties. Luckily the police are involved and do actually maintain control of the investigations most of the time.
This is a book about books and their authors, publishers and literary agents. There are also retired wartime spies spending their time creating new ways for book characters to die, Ukrainian refugees out for revenge and an aged care nurse working the bitcoin market in her free time. All good fun and written so nicely it never becomes too over the top.
Elly Griffiths has a light touch in this book. There is plenty of humour, especially from Harbinder herself. She has her own wonderful ways of dealing internally with implied racism and with her partner's foibles. The three amateur detectives, Natalka, Edwin and Benedict are all beautifully drawn and make you cross your fingers that things will end well for them.
I know it was a good book because I found myself reading bits out loud to anyone who was listening. I thought it was good fun, very well written and totally entertaining.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 22, 2020
EXCERPT: Natalka turns back to Peggy. She looks at peace, that's what Patricia will say to Nigel. Passed away peacefully. There's a book open on the arm of Peggy's chair. 'Highrise Murder' by Dex Challoner. Peggy's binoculars are on the table beside her. There's also a pen,completed crossword and a pill dispenser, the sort that has the days of the week on it. There's something else too, a piece of paper just poking out from under the crossword. Natalka slides it out. It's a business card, very official, with black, curly writing.
Mrs M. Smith, it says. Murder Consultant
ABOUT 'THE POSTSCRIPT MURDERS': PS: thanks for the murders.
The death of a ninety-year-old woman with a heart condition should absolutely not be suspicious. DS Harbinder Kaur certainly sees nothing to concern her in carer Natalka's account of Peggy Smith's death.
But when Natalka reveals that Peggy lied about her heart condition and that she had been sure someone was following her...
And that Peggy Smith had been a 'murder consultant' who plotted deaths for authors, and knew more about murder than anyone has any right to...
And when clearing out Peggy's flat ends in Natalka being held at gunpoint by a masked figure...
Well then DS Harbinder Kaur thinks that maybe there is no such thing as an unsuspicious death after all.
MY THOUGHTS: 'No one knows the hour,not even the angels in heaven, or the Son himself...' - Matthew 24
There is something almost Christiesque about The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths. It has that feel of a Christie murder-mystery. The slow buildup, rather like a steam train pulling out of the station, the multiple suspects, the red herrings. But Griffiths murders and characters perhaps have a few more teeth than Christie's, and she is not above a bit of sarcasm, which I enjoy.
Although this is #2 in the Harbinder Kaur series, unusually for a series, the detective is not the focus of the book. The murder/s are firmly front and centre, with an ill assorted cast of amateur detectives playing the major role.
Natalka, carer for Peggy and a few of the other elderly residents of Seaview Manor, a residential care complex, has a past, one that she fears is catching up with her. Benedict, ex-Monk, now barista. He left because he fell out of love with God, although his faith is as strong as ever. And Edwin, in his eighties, ex BBC and a gentleman to the core, gay, and very observant. Convinced that Peggy's death was not natural, and that the police aren't taking it seriously enough, these three set out to investigate on their own. Although they do DS (who would love to be DI) Harbinder Kaur the courtesy of keeping in touch by text.
DS Kaur, who is almost 40 and still lives at home with her parents, is in turn frustrated and impressed by the skills and dedication of this group. Kaur is also gay, still hiding it from her parents, and disappointingly single. She has a nice line in sarcasm, and often thinks of her partner, Neil, as a little woodland animal, a cute squirrel who often nibbles at nuts somewhat larger than he is. Neil himself would have preferred to live in the times where detectives trampled all over the crime scene, pausing only to beat up suspects and drink beer, rather than having to worry about all the intricacies of forensics.
Although this series is immensely different to Elly Griffiths Ruth Galloway series, she still holds me spellbound with her use of words, both in her character and scenery descriptions, and her setting of atmosphere . . . '...the spaces beneath them. Old mining tunnels. Caverns measureless to man. Death and dread.' and 'ghost cottages with the gardens still in flower.'
I loved The Postscript Murders. I loved the characters. I loved the plot with its red herrings and twists. I loved the solution. It was something that I had not even considered! An altogether wonderful read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.8
#ThePostscriptMurders #NetGalley
'It's such a civilised world; books, libraries, tea and cake.'
THE AUTHOR: Elly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway novels take for their inspiration Elly's husband, who gave up a city job to train as an archaeologist, and her aunt who lives on the Norfolk coast and who filled her niece's head with the myths and legends of that area. Elly has two children and lives near Brighton.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Quercus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Mrs M. Smith, it says. Murder Consultant
ABOUT 'THE POSTSCRIPT MURDERS': PS: thanks for the murders.
The death of a ninety-year-old woman with a heart condition should absolutely not be suspicious. DS Harbinder Kaur certainly sees nothing to concern her in carer Natalka's account of Peggy Smith's death.
But when Natalka reveals that Peggy lied about her heart condition and that she had been sure someone was following her...
And that Peggy Smith had been a 'murder consultant' who plotted deaths for authors, and knew more about murder than anyone has any right to...
And when clearing out Peggy's flat ends in Natalka being held at gunpoint by a masked figure...
Well then DS Harbinder Kaur thinks that maybe there is no such thing as an unsuspicious death after all.
MY THOUGHTS: 'No one knows the hour,not even the angels in heaven, or the Son himself...' - Matthew 24
There is something almost Christiesque about The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths. It has that feel of a Christie murder-mystery. The slow buildup, rather like a steam train pulling out of the station, the multiple suspects, the red herrings. But Griffiths murders and characters perhaps have a few more teeth than Christie's, and she is not above a bit of sarcasm, which I enjoy.
Although this is #2 in the Harbinder Kaur series, unusually for a series, the detective is not the focus of the book. The murder/s are firmly front and centre, with an ill assorted cast of amateur detectives playing the major role.
Natalka, carer for Peggy and a few of the other elderly residents of Seaview Manor, a residential care complex, has a past, one that she fears is catching up with her. Benedict, ex-Monk, now barista. He left because he fell out of love with God, although his faith is as strong as ever. And Edwin, in his eighties, ex BBC and a gentleman to the core, gay, and very observant. Convinced that Peggy's death was not natural, and that the police aren't taking it seriously enough, these three set out to investigate on their own. Although they do DS (who would love to be DI) Harbinder Kaur the courtesy of keeping in touch by text.
DS Kaur, who is almost 40 and still lives at home with her parents, is in turn frustrated and impressed by the skills and dedication of this group. Kaur is also gay, still hiding it from her parents, and disappointingly single. She has a nice line in sarcasm, and often thinks of her partner, Neil, as a little woodland animal, a cute squirrel who often nibbles at nuts somewhat larger than he is. Neil himself would have preferred to live in the times where detectives trampled all over the crime scene, pausing only to beat up suspects and drink beer, rather than having to worry about all the intricacies of forensics.
Although this series is immensely different to Elly Griffiths Ruth Galloway series, she still holds me spellbound with her use of words, both in her character and scenery descriptions, and her setting of atmosphere . . . '...the spaces beneath them. Old mining tunnels. Caverns measureless to man. Death and dread.' and 'ghost cottages with the gardens still in flower.'
I loved The Postscript Murders. I loved the characters. I loved the plot with its red herrings and twists. I loved the solution. It was something that I had not even considered! An altogether wonderful read.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.8
#ThePostscriptMurders #NetGalley
'It's such a civilised world; books, libraries, tea and cake.'
THE AUTHOR: Elly Griffiths' Ruth Galloway novels take for their inspiration Elly's husband, who gave up a city job to train as an archaeologist, and her aunt who lives on the Norfolk coast and who filled her niece's head with the myths and legends of that area. Elly has two children and lives near Brighton.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Quercus via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 27, 2022
Unpopular opinion alert!
This was just a 3⭐️ read for me!
I loved “The Stranger Diaries”...the story within the book, the suspense, the hint of the Supernatural...
So, I was excited to receive approval to read an ARC of “The Postscript Murders”!
The death of 90 year old, Peggy Smith, reveals that she has been a “Murder Consultant” for several best-selling crime fiction authors! Her name appears in dedications and the acknowledgement pages of several books-apparently she was great at plotting and dreaming up new ways to murder someone!
P.S. Thanks for the Murders
P.S. for PS
I wanted to hear about how Peggy collaborated with the authors and brainstormed with them! I wanted to hear her ideas, and to get to know HER. Peggy could have been one of those characters that we never forget!
THAT is the book that I wanted to read!
But, alas, we didn’t get to spend time with Peggy beyond the Prologue.
Instead, we join her three friends (unlikely armchair detectives) and DI Harbinder Kaur (who was first introduced in The Stranger Diaries) for a “COZY” mystery, which at times read a bit like a farce to me because of a white Ford Fiesta which seemed to be lurking around all of the authors of the “Postscript Murders”.
It is not necessary to read “The Stranger Diaries” to read this one, but if you haven’t read it, it was the book which I preferred of the two, so you may want to start there.
Thank You to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
This was just a 3⭐️ read for me!
I loved “The Stranger Diaries”...the story within the book, the suspense, the hint of the Supernatural...
So, I was excited to receive approval to read an ARC of “The Postscript Murders”!
The death of 90 year old, Peggy Smith, reveals that she has been a “Murder Consultant” for several best-selling crime fiction authors! Her name appears in dedications and the acknowledgement pages of several books-apparently she was great at plotting and dreaming up new ways to murder someone!
P.S. Thanks for the Murders
P.S. for PS
I wanted to hear about how Peggy collaborated with the authors and brainstormed with them! I wanted to hear her ideas, and to get to know HER. Peggy could have been one of those characters that we never forget!
THAT is the book that I wanted to read!
But, alas, we didn’t get to spend time with Peggy beyond the Prologue.
Instead, we join her three friends (unlikely armchair detectives) and DI Harbinder Kaur (who was first introduced in The Stranger Diaries) for a “COZY” mystery, which at times read a bit like a farce to me because of a white Ford Fiesta which seemed to be lurking around all of the authors of the “Postscript Murders”.
It is not necessary to read “The Stranger Diaries” to read this one, but if you haven’t read it, it was the book which I preferred of the two, so you may want to start there.
Thank You to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for the gifted copy provided through NetGalley. It was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
January 4, 2021
This character driven mystery is perfect for fans of The Thursday Murder Club. It’s book two in a series about Harinder Kaur, a gay, 36 year old Sikh, female DS. A ninety year old “murder consultant” dies of an apparent heart attack. But Natalka , her caregiver, has misgivings and shares them with Harinder.
Griffiths’ sense of humor is still intact. When Natalka and Benedict, coffee shop owner and ex-monk, decide to investigate, they are confronted by a gun wielding masked man. “But he can’t deny it’s the most interesting thing to have happened to him since Brother Giles forgot the doxology in Matins.”
Each character is given a chance to narrate the story. Everyone is well developed, engaging and likable. They are people you would love to enjoy a cocktail with.
Peggy, the “murder consultant”, helped novelists find new and interesting ways of murdering their victims. As those novelists feature in the story, Griffiths is given even more opportunities to turn her wit to writers and their methods.
This isn’t a fast paced book. But I just found it very enjoyable entertainment. Griffiths harkens back to the “golden age” of crime stories, and the story definitely has a cozy, old fashioned feel to it despite the characters being distinctly modern.
It can easily be read as a standalone.
Kudos to Griffiths for having three different series, each of which I love.
My thanks to netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for an advance copy of this book.
Griffiths’ sense of humor is still intact. When Natalka and Benedict, coffee shop owner and ex-monk, decide to investigate, they are confronted by a gun wielding masked man. “But he can’t deny it’s the most interesting thing to have happened to him since Brother Giles forgot the doxology in Matins.”
Each character is given a chance to narrate the story. Everyone is well developed, engaging and likable. They are people you would love to enjoy a cocktail with.
Peggy, the “murder consultant”, helped novelists find new and interesting ways of murdering their victims. As those novelists feature in the story, Griffiths is given even more opportunities to turn her wit to writers and their methods.
This isn’t a fast paced book. But I just found it very enjoyable entertainment. Griffiths harkens back to the “golden age” of crime stories, and the story definitely has a cozy, old fashioned feel to it despite the characters being distinctly modern.
It can easily be read as a standalone.
Kudos to Griffiths for having three different series, each of which I love.
My thanks to netgalley and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for an advance copy of this book.
August 16, 2020
Ninety year old Peggy Smith observes two men from her window seat at her sheltered accommodation ‘Seaview Court’ in Shoreham, West Sussex. Peggy is an astute observer but why do they attract her attention? Shortly after this, Peggy is found dead by her Ukrainian born carer Natalka. Maybe her death is no surprise given Peggy’s age but Natalka is uneasy, as is fellow resident and friend, sprightly eighty year old Edwin. They discuss their thoughts with mutual friend and coffee shop owner Benedict and decide Natalka should go to the police with their suspicions. DS Harbinder Kaur investigates and this takes her from Shoreham to Aberdeen and back again in search of the truth. The story is told from several perspectives including Harbinder and this works really well.
First of all, although Peggy isn’t in in the book as such, you feel her fascinating and enigmatic presence throughout. She was a ‘murder consultant’ who helped many authors struggling with plot holes to find solutions and this is intrinsic in the storytelling. The characters are terrific as they are all colourfully likeable with really good back stories which makes them a cut above other characters in this genre. I’m sure Harbinder will feature again as she is such a good lead detective character but Natalka, Edwin and Benedict make such excellent amateur sleuths it would be great if they made another appearance too. There’s plenty of humour which I really like (several unladylike snorts of laugher throughout the reading!) and each chapter has a heading which is either obviously funny or dryly ironic. It is extremely well written, it has an old fashioned ‘Golden Age’ crime novel vibe to it but it’s not at all dated, in fact it feels clever, fresh and original. It has all the requisite features of a crime novel with some shocks, dangerous incidents, a killing spree, numerous twists and although it does get somewhat convoluted towards the end it’s a fun caper! I love the crime novel, television show references and quotes throughout and the wry commentary on the literary world is good too.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable read with an intriguing and well thought out plot that keeps you guessing. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC
4-5 stars rounded up because of the entertainment value!
First of all, although Peggy isn’t in in the book as such, you feel her fascinating and enigmatic presence throughout. She was a ‘murder consultant’ who helped many authors struggling with plot holes to find solutions and this is intrinsic in the storytelling. The characters are terrific as they are all colourfully likeable with really good back stories which makes them a cut above other characters in this genre. I’m sure Harbinder will feature again as she is such a good lead detective character but Natalka, Edwin and Benedict make such excellent amateur sleuths it would be great if they made another appearance too. There’s plenty of humour which I really like (several unladylike snorts of laugher throughout the reading!) and each chapter has a heading which is either obviously funny or dryly ironic. It is extremely well written, it has an old fashioned ‘Golden Age’ crime novel vibe to it but it’s not at all dated, in fact it feels clever, fresh and original. It has all the requisite features of a crime novel with some shocks, dangerous incidents, a killing spree, numerous twists and although it does get somewhat convoluted towards the end it’s a fun caper! I love the crime novel, television show references and quotes throughout and the wry commentary on the literary world is good too.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable read with an intriguing and well thought out plot that keeps you guessing. Recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley and Quercus for the ARC
4-5 stars rounded up because of the entertainment value!
December 29, 2020
The Golden Age of mysteries with a contemporary setting and overtones, aided by three quirky amateur detectives and, Harbinger, the gay, Sikh detective from the Stranger Diaries. It starts with the death of a ninety year old in a care home. A mystery afficiendo, her apartment is chock full of mystery novels, some aged, some more current. Her death is thought to be from a heart attack, but her care giver is not sure having been told by the woman that she thought someone had been watching her. She enlists the aid of a fellow pensioner at the home and an former monk who now owns a coffee shack. And we're off to the races.
A delightful blend of non graphic murder, wonderful characters, a look into the art of mysteries, much humor, and plenty of red herrings strewn hither and non. Loved the armchair today into Scotland and a book festival that features mystery writers that all seemed to know the dead women. Of course, more murders are soon committed making a strange case even stranger. Harbinger, brings us up to date in her life and tries to solve these mysteries while keeping track of her erstwhile amateurs.
This is a fun, well put together story. I've read all three of Griffiths series and loved every one. Her characterizations are top notch and the atmosphere created always, for me, feels authentic.
"Of course, plot is overrated,' says Lance. 'i try to get beyond what happens next.'
Edwin reminds himself never to read Lance's book."
Don't need to make that decision here, there is plenty of plot and plenty of Golden Age feel.
ARC from Edelweiss.
A delightful blend of non graphic murder, wonderful characters, a look into the art of mysteries, much humor, and plenty of red herrings strewn hither and non. Loved the armchair today into Scotland and a book festival that features mystery writers that all seemed to know the dead women. Of course, more murders are soon committed making a strange case even stranger. Harbinger, brings us up to date in her life and tries to solve these mysteries while keeping track of her erstwhile amateurs.
This is a fun, well put together story. I've read all three of Griffiths series and loved every one. Her characterizations are top notch and the atmosphere created always, for me, feels authentic.
"Of course, plot is overrated,' says Lance. 'i try to get beyond what happens next.'
Edwin reminds himself never to read Lance's book."
Don't need to make that decision here, there is plenty of plot and plenty of Golden Age feel.
ARC from Edelweiss.
June 7, 2021
It's not meant to be. Ruth Galloway by Elly Griffiths is one of my favorite mysteries, and after seeing so many four to five stars I decided to give this book a go. Unfortunately, I could never find any point in the story nor characters that draw me in. I wish I DNF it but I was hoping I might enjoy the second half of it. It's probably a me problem than the book.
April 22, 2024
3.5 stars
In this 2nd book in the Harbinder Kaur series, the police detective investigates several suspicious deaths. The book works fine as a standalone.
*****
Ninety-year-old Peggy Smith lives in Seaview Court, a seaside block of retirement flats in Shoreham, England. Peggy's a nosy-parker who likes to sit in her bay window and make notes about the people she sees outside.
Shortly after Peggy observes two suspicious men sitting in a car she's found dead in her apartment, a death that's ascribed to a heart attack.
Peggy's carer, a beautiful Ukranian woman called Natalka, doesn't buy the natural death scenario.
While packing Peggy's books, Natalka notes that many mystery novels are either dedicated to Peggy or mention Peggy in the acknowledgements, and Peggy has a business card that reads 'Mrs. M. Smith, Murder Consultant.'
Natalka hastens to the police station.....
....and reports her suspicions about Peggy's death to Detective Sergeant Harbinder Kaur.
Harbinder agrees that 'murder consultant' has a sinister ring to it, but isn't especially alarmed by (what seems to be) the death of an elderly woman from natural causes.
Natalka then shares her concerns with two friends who knew Peggy: Benedict - a thirtysomething former monk who now runs a coffee shop;
and Edwin - an elderly gent who lives in Peggy's apartment building.
With Natalka's urging, the odd threesome decide to launch their own investigation into Peggy's death, a seriocomic exercise that's both fun and dangerous.
The amateur sleuths attend Peggy's funeral, because the 'murderer always goes to the funeral', after which Natalka and Benedict search Peggy's apartment for clues. While the duo are looking through Peggy's things, a masked figure enters the residence, points a gun at them, grabs a book, and runs out.
This incident DOES make DS Harbinder Kaur suspicious, and the subsequent murder of a mystery author who mentioned Peggy in all his books clinches the deal. Harbinder accepts that the deaths of Peggy and the writer might be linked.
While Harbinder makes inquiries in Shoreham with her partner DS Neil Winston, Natalka, Benedict, and Edwin engage in a parallel investigation - one that takes them to a literary festival in Aberdeen.
Another death follows, and it looks like Natalka and her cohorts might be in danger as well.
The book's plot is engaging, but the best parts of the story are the characters.
♦ Natalka is an ex-pat who can't return to Ukraine because of the conflict with Russia. Natalka has a degree in maths, a facility for trading in cryptocurrencies, and a dangerous history with the Ukranian mafia. Natalka works as a carer to have a flexible job that provides a little money.
♦ Benedict is an amiable man who loved the spiritual life of a monk but came to yearn for 'a normal life.' Benedict is shy about meeting women, but hopes a special lady will miraculously walk into his life. The café owner loves to read mysteries, and turns out to be a clever detective.
♦ Edwin is an elegant gentleman who once worked for the BBC, and still has connections in the entertainment industry. Edwin is bored with his retirement life, and longs for interesting things to do. The chance to look into a crime is pure fun for him.
♦ DS Harbinder Kaur is a gay Sikh woman who still lives with her folks. Harbinder's parents run the family store, and her mom is a wonderful cook who serves delicious Indian cuisine.
Harbinder thinks of her police partner Neil Winston, who doesn't 'get' a lot of things, as a woodland creature - sly, slightly stupid, but ultimately lovable.
Harbinder's inner thoughts about Neil's animal persona (nibble nibble nibble; twitching nose and ruffled whiskers; a squirrel deprived of its nut) provide amusing mental images.
♦ DS Neil Winston is awed by wealthy people, loves pretty English villages, and thinks the rich and beautiful are above criminal activity. Despite these limitations, Neil is a decent detective....and he loves Mrs. Kaur's cooking.
♦ Other characters in the tale include home care workers, writers, editors, agents, publicists, family members, police officers, elderly ladies, Russians, and more - so there are plenty of suspects for the murders.
The story has clever twists, and armchair sleuths will be challenged to solve the crimes.
Thanks to Netgalley, Elly Griffiths, and Houghton Mifflin Harcourt for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
April 8, 2021
For all you “cozy mystery” lovers, “The Postscript Murders” by Elly Griffiths is the book for you!
Author Griffiths told NPR that she was inspired by her own Aunt Marge, who provides Griffiths ideas and plots for murders. Griffiths wondered if there was such a thing as a murder consultant; if so, her aunt would be the perfect murder consultant.
Plus, Griffiths admits there is nothing cozy about murder, but there are avid readers who find comfort in a great murder mystery, sans blood and guts. Mysteries that are puzzles, that engage the reader in solving said puzzles are a must in creating a cozy mystery.
In “The Postscript Murders”, Peggy Smith is a ninety-year-old woman who sits by her window and watches the world go by. She catalogues what she sees, to keep herself amused. She also is a puzzle lover, an anagram solver. After she dies of an alleged heart condition, her care giver notices that all Peggy’s mystery books have acknowledged Peggy in the author’s notes. One says PS to PS, thanks for the murders. Plus, there is a business card with Peggy’s name and the title “Murder Consultant.” After a novelist dies(one that acknowledged Peggy), and through unlikely events, a motley group of amateur sleuths get together to try and solve the mystery of Peggy’s death and deaths of other novelists.
This is very clever and charming. Yes, a murder mystery book is charming. The motley group are eccentric and fun. And Griffiths keeps the reader involved in the silly antics of the group along with the murders. This is my first Elly Griffiths novel, and I must read her prior works.
Author Griffiths told NPR that she was inspired by her own Aunt Marge, who provides Griffiths ideas and plots for murders. Griffiths wondered if there was such a thing as a murder consultant; if so, her aunt would be the perfect murder consultant.
Plus, Griffiths admits there is nothing cozy about murder, but there are avid readers who find comfort in a great murder mystery, sans blood and guts. Mysteries that are puzzles, that engage the reader in solving said puzzles are a must in creating a cozy mystery.
In “The Postscript Murders”, Peggy Smith is a ninety-year-old woman who sits by her window and watches the world go by. She catalogues what she sees, to keep herself amused. She also is a puzzle lover, an anagram solver. After she dies of an alleged heart condition, her care giver notices that all Peggy’s mystery books have acknowledged Peggy in the author’s notes. One says PS to PS, thanks for the murders. Plus, there is a business card with Peggy’s name and the title “Murder Consultant.” After a novelist dies(one that acknowledged Peggy), and through unlikely events, a motley group of amateur sleuths get together to try and solve the mystery of Peggy’s death and deaths of other novelists.
This is very clever and charming. Yes, a murder mystery book is charming. The motley group are eccentric and fun. And Griffiths keeps the reader involved in the silly antics of the group along with the murders. This is my first Elly Griffiths novel, and I must read her prior works.
December 20, 2021
An average mystery that I'm heartbroken to rate 2.5 stars. I liked the first one in the series a lot more (3.5 stars rounded up to 4 - you can see my review here if you want to compare).
I felt like this book was written by another author, it was a totally different type of story. I remember liking the characters and the writing style in The Stranger Diaries, but I didn't feel this way with The Postcript Murders. I read the first one in English and this one in French... Could it be the reason?! However, that couldn't be the only reason.
I thought the premise was really interesting and, luckily, the story was really fast-paced. I would have cut some repetitive dialogues and added more descriptions. I didn't feel anything while reading and the ending left me confused. I wouldn't recommend it and I don't think I will bother with the next book of the series.😕
I felt like this book was written by another author, it was a totally different type of story. I remember liking the characters and the writing style in The Stranger Diaries, but I didn't feel this way with The Postcript Murders. I read the first one in English and this one in French... Could it be the reason?! However, that couldn't be the only reason.
I thought the premise was really interesting and, luckily, the story was really fast-paced. I would have cut some repetitive dialogues and added more descriptions. I didn't feel anything while reading and the ending left me confused. I wouldn't recommend it and I don't think I will bother with the next book of the series.😕
September 15, 2020
This new series from Elly Griffiths featuring DS Harbinder Kaur, a thirty six year old gay Sikh woman still living with her parents, is shaping up to be very enjoyable. More cosy crime than police procedural, it has a lighter feel than her excellent Elly Griffiths series with a good infusion of humour.
In this second episode, the mystery is kicked off with the unexpected death of ninety year old, Peggy Smith, a woman with an interesting past and a self proclaimed Murder Consulatant who helps authors with plots for their murder mysteries. Her friends, pensioner Edwin, carer Natalka and cafe owner Benedict all become involved in solving the mystery of her death, much to Harbinder's amusement and despair. The amateur detectives are all interesting quirky characters, something the author writes so well. Harbinder is also developing well as an original character; a good detective with a kind heart who listens to people but gets the job done. The plot takes us into the world of writing and publishing and even to a literary festival. Well written with some good twists and a gentle humour, this was a fun and engaging read. 4.5★
With thanks to Quercus Books and Netgalley for a digital arc to read
In this second episode, the mystery is kicked off with the unexpected death of ninety year old, Peggy Smith, a woman with an interesting past and a self proclaimed Murder Consulatant who helps authors with plots for their murder mysteries. Her friends, pensioner Edwin, carer Natalka and cafe owner Benedict all become involved in solving the mystery of her death, much to Harbinder's amusement and despair. The amateur detectives are all interesting quirky characters, something the author writes so well. Harbinder is also developing well as an original character; a good detective with a kind heart who listens to people but gets the job done. The plot takes us into the world of writing and publishing and even to a literary festival. Well written with some good twists and a gentle humour, this was a fun and engaging read. 4.5★
With thanks to Quercus Books and Netgalley for a digital arc to read
December 23, 2020
THE POSTSCRIPT MURDERS
by Elly Griffiths combines death and authors within a novel that is a police procedural and almost a cozy mystery hybrid set in England and Scotland. The death of ninety-year-old Peggy Smith seems to be one of natural causes, but is it? One of her caretakers, Natalka Kolisnyk, thinks it is murder. While helping to clear out Peggy’s apartment, she notices the large number of murder mysteries; many of which have mentioned Peggy in their acknowledgement section. Detective Sergeant (DS) Harbinder Kaur doesn’t see anything out of the ordinary initially, but is willing to listen to Natalka. When a gunman breaks into Peggy’s apartment and steals a book, the situation rapidly changes and escalates.
Natalka and friends Benedict Cole and Edwin Fitzgerald decide they have to help Harbinder solve the case and take on the roles of amateur sleuths. DS Kaur seems to interact with the amateurs a little too freely, but it made for an enjoyable read. The characters of Harbinder and Natalka are well developed and showed growth. The supporting characters of Cole and Fitzgerald were not quite as well developed, but were adequate for their role. I felt that Harbinder’s partner, DS Neil Winston took too much of a backseat to be realistic.
The book changes point of view frequently, but the chapters are labeled with the character’s name and it is never confusing. The author did a great job of world-building. A strong sense of place made me feel like I was transported to Shoreham-by-Sea and Aberdeen. The plot is somewhat intricate with several subplots. There are lots of twists and turns and a few surprises along the way. The author’s sense of humor came through in the dialogue. Several themes are woven into the novel including death, murder, loneliness, elder care, religion, cultural differences, racism, and much more. Additionally, it also deals with books, authors, agents and publishers.
Overall, it was an entertaining book that approached an investigation with a serious, hardworking, and kind investigator that was willing to listen to some quirky amateur detectives. This is the second book in the Harbinder Kaur mystery series, and I recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. It was a fun read and I am looking forward to the next book featuring Harbinder as well as other series by this author. This is the first book that I have read by Elly Griffiths, but it won’t be the last.
Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 2, 2021.
Natalka and friends Benedict Cole and Edwin Fitzgerald decide they have to help Harbinder solve the case and take on the roles of amateur sleuths. DS Kaur seems to interact with the amateurs a little too freely, but it made for an enjoyable read. The characters of Harbinder and Natalka are well developed and showed growth. The supporting characters of Cole and Fitzgerald were not quite as well developed, but were adequate for their role. I felt that Harbinder’s partner, DS Neil Winston took too much of a backseat to be realistic.
The book changes point of view frequently, but the chapters are labeled with the character’s name and it is never confusing. The author did a great job of world-building. A strong sense of place made me feel like I was transported to Shoreham-by-Sea and Aberdeen. The plot is somewhat intricate with several subplots. There are lots of twists and turns and a few surprises along the way. The author’s sense of humor came through in the dialogue. Several themes are woven into the novel including death, murder, loneliness, elder care, religion, cultural differences, racism, and much more. Additionally, it also deals with books, authors, agents and publishers.
Overall, it was an entertaining book that approached an investigation with a serious, hardworking, and kind investigator that was willing to listen to some quirky amateur detectives. This is the second book in the Harbinder Kaur mystery series, and I recommend it to those that enjoy the genre. It was a fun read and I am looking forward to the next book featuring Harbinder as well as other series by this author. This is the first book that I have read by Elly Griffiths, but it won’t be the last.
Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for March 2, 2021.
June 7, 2023
3.75 stars
When an elderly woman Peggy dies, no one is suspicious at first. Until a former carer of hers notices all of the mystery books in that woman’s apartment are dedicated to her. Harbinder Kaur is brought in on the case before there even is one, but when two people are put at gunpoint while packing up belongings, and other people start to die, it becomes clear Peggy may have been murdered.
I really have enjoyed this series and I feel it would make a great BBC tv series (doing my best to manifest this into the universe). I read the first book in the series back in 2020 and I liked it, the second book was also excellent. I’ve always listened to the audiobook and the narrator is fantastic. I’ve spoken to people who read a physical copy and they didn’t enjoy it as much so maybe give the audio a try.
I like the main character a lot, I love the idea of a queer female detective who is the daughter of immigrants solving murders. Harbinder Kaur is great at reading people and people seem to really like her. I thought adding in all the mystery writers and their personalities was a lot of fun, I wonder if the author based any of them off of real life people. When I get the chance I will be picking up the next book in the series.
When an elderly woman Peggy dies, no one is suspicious at first. Until a former carer of hers notices all of the mystery books in that woman’s apartment are dedicated to her. Harbinder Kaur is brought in on the case before there even is one, but when two people are put at gunpoint while packing up belongings, and other people start to die, it becomes clear Peggy may have been murdered.
I really have enjoyed this series and I feel it would make a great BBC tv series (doing my best to manifest this into the universe). I read the first book in the series back in 2020 and I liked it, the second book was also excellent. I’ve always listened to the audiobook and the narrator is fantastic. I’ve spoken to people who read a physical copy and they didn’t enjoy it as much so maybe give the audio a try.
I like the main character a lot, I love the idea of a queer female detective who is the daughter of immigrants solving murders. Harbinder Kaur is great at reading people and people seem to really like her. I thought adding in all the mystery writers and their personalities was a lot of fun, I wonder if the author based any of them off of real life people. When I get the chance I will be picking up the next book in the series.
August 2, 2020
Book 2 in the Harbinder Kaur series published 2020.
This, I imagine, is what is referred to as a cosy mystery and not a genre that I would normally gravitate towards. But much to my surprise, and pleasure, I found it to be a highly entertaining and enjoyable read.
What made it so entertaining was the eclectic cast of characters, the evolving mystery and the subtle but ever present humour.
The characters include.
1. DS Harbinder Kaur, a female detective in a male dominated work place. She is also gay; a Sikh and in her mid thirties is still lives with her mum and dad.
2. The beautiful and mysterious Natalka, a refugee from The Ukraine now living in England and working as carer for the aged. As luck would have it she is also a maths wizard.
3. Bernie, who until recently lived a cloistered life as a monk but know is the barista in his own coffee shop. Bernie also has the hots for Natalka.
4. Last but not least there’s elderly, dapper Edwin a retired TV producer, who like Harbinder, is gay.
What’s not to like.
When Natalka finds one of her clients, Peggy Smith, sitting in her favourite chair in front of her favourite window all seems normal but for one thing Peggy is dead. The police are called, enter DS Kaur, but given the fact that Peggy was in her nineties the verdict is death by natural causes.
The obligatory spanner in the works turns up when Natalka finds some very strange cards inside some of Peggy’s books, cards that read “We’re coming for you”.
Natalka is sufficiently intrigued that she decides to share this worrisome information with her friends, Bernie and Edwin. The group then decide to take their worries to DS Kaur who soon finds herself drawn into the mystery.
The search for the truth will take the sleuths from the south of England to the north of Scotland and before we get to the truth there will be a plethora of red herrings to confuse you every step of the way.
I can only say that this was an enjoyable and entertaining departure from my norm.
A highly recommended 4 star read.
Many thanks to the publisher Quercuc Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
This, I imagine, is what is referred to as a cosy mystery and not a genre that I would normally gravitate towards. But much to my surprise, and pleasure, I found it to be a highly entertaining and enjoyable read.
What made it so entertaining was the eclectic cast of characters, the evolving mystery and the subtle but ever present humour.
The characters include.
1. DS Harbinder Kaur, a female detective in a male dominated work place. She is also gay; a Sikh and in her mid thirties is still lives with her mum and dad.
2. The beautiful and mysterious Natalka, a refugee from The Ukraine now living in England and working as carer for the aged. As luck would have it she is also a maths wizard.
3. Bernie, who until recently lived a cloistered life as a monk but know is the barista in his own coffee shop. Bernie also has the hots for Natalka.
4. Last but not least there’s elderly, dapper Edwin a retired TV producer, who like Harbinder, is gay.
What’s not to like.
When Natalka finds one of her clients, Peggy Smith, sitting in her favourite chair in front of her favourite window all seems normal but for one thing Peggy is dead. The police are called, enter DS Kaur, but given the fact that Peggy was in her nineties the verdict is death by natural causes.
The obligatory spanner in the works turns up when Natalka finds some very strange cards inside some of Peggy’s books, cards that read “We’re coming for you”.
Natalka is sufficiently intrigued that she decides to share this worrisome information with her friends, Bernie and Edwin. The group then decide to take their worries to DS Kaur who soon finds herself drawn into the mystery.
The search for the truth will take the sleuths from the south of England to the north of Scotland and before we get to the truth there will be a plethora of red herrings to confuse you every step of the way.
I can only say that this was an enjoyable and entertaining departure from my norm.
A highly recommended 4 star read.
Many thanks to the publisher Quercuc Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book
December 5, 2020
”She didn’t get all that knowledge from her husband. I think she got it from books.”
“You’re right. You can travel the world in books.”
“The postcript murders” was so much fun! After a couple of disappointments on my recent reads I knew this was gonna be a winner for me from page one.
Murder mystery set in the literary world + eclectic and charming cast of characters = 5⭐️
In this second instalment in the DS Harbinder Kaur series, our favorite Sikh gay detective makes a come back with a trio of amateur detectives that were a complete delight. There’s Natalka, an Ukrainian refugee working as a carer and cryptocurrency genius. Benedict, an ex-monk turned barista suffering a case of Detective Fever. And Edwin, a 80 yo gay TV producer. They were all very well drawn out and were instantly likable. Also I find DS Kaur character so refreshing, as it’s not the usual tortured detective character. It will be nice to see how her family relationship evolves from now on.
The story managed to grabbed me from page one. As you know I adore mysteries about writers, crime books, the literary world and so on, and this book was a perfect match for me. The story is laced with some humour and that’s always a win. And the “murder consultant” concept was hilarious! I want that job!
I loved how Harbinder didn’t dismiss the trio of amateur detectives, and while she didn’t encourage them to investigate, she listened and respected their findings. The friendship they created was so wonderful! (for all her pretended coldness she sure gets friendly with her suspects! See “The stranger diaries”)
All the different POVs made the story pretty dynamic and when you thought that all was said and done there was a final twist that, truth be told, hurt a little.
Super enjoyable cozy mystery. Can’t wait to see again DS Kaur, and hopefully, her new friends too.
Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
“You’re right. You can travel the world in books.”
“The postcript murders” was so much fun! After a couple of disappointments on my recent reads I knew this was gonna be a winner for me from page one.
Murder mystery set in the literary world + eclectic and charming cast of characters = 5⭐️
In this second instalment in the DS Harbinder Kaur series, our favorite Sikh gay detective makes a come back with a trio of amateur detectives that were a complete delight. There’s Natalka, an Ukrainian refugee working as a carer and cryptocurrency genius. Benedict, an ex-monk turned barista suffering a case of Detective Fever. And Edwin, a 80 yo gay TV producer. They were all very well drawn out and were instantly likable. Also I find DS Kaur character so refreshing, as it’s not the usual tortured detective character. It will be nice to see how her family relationship evolves from now on.
The story managed to grabbed me from page one. As you know I adore mysteries about writers, crime books, the literary world and so on, and this book was a perfect match for me. The story is laced with some humour and that’s always a win. And the “murder consultant” concept was hilarious! I want that job!
I loved how Harbinder didn’t dismiss the trio of amateur detectives, and while she didn’t encourage them to investigate, she listened and respected their findings. The friendship they created was so wonderful! (for all her pretended coldness she sure gets friendly with her suspects! See “The stranger diaries”)
All the different POVs made the story pretty dynamic and when you thought that all was said and done there was a final twist that, truth be told, hurt a little.
Super enjoyable cozy mystery. Can’t wait to see again DS Kaur, and hopefully, her new friends too.
Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2021
Elly Griffiths is becoming a favorite author of mine. She has a well-loved series, but she also wrote The Stranger Diaries (which I adored), and The Postscript Murders is its follow-up.
These books have a modern Christie feel, and I can definitely see the comparison to the clever Anthony Horowitz as well. The Postscript Murders is about a 90 year old female murder consultant. Yes, my friends. She’s an expert on how to kill people, and authors hire her when writing their books. Peggy ends up dead under suspicious circumstances, and an investigation ensues. The best part of all, the book often takes place during a literary festival, so it’s full of bookish content.
Lots of layers to analyze, witty dialogue, great tension; it has it everything you are looking for in a solid literary mystery. I hope there’s a book three on the horizon!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
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These books have a modern Christie feel, and I can definitely see the comparison to the clever Anthony Horowitz as well. The Postscript Murders is about a 90 year old female murder consultant. Yes, my friends. She’s an expert on how to kill people, and authors hire her when writing their books. Peggy ends up dead under suspicious circumstances, and an investigation ensues. The best part of all, the book often takes place during a literary festival, so it’s full of bookish content.
Lots of layers to analyze, witty dialogue, great tension; it has it everything you are looking for in a solid literary mystery. I hope there’s a book three on the horizon!
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
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March 29, 2021
The Postscript Murders is the second book in the Harbinder Kaur mystery series and can easily be read as a standalone. I say that with confidence because I read the first book 2 years ago and had forgotten everything by the time I picked this one up. This second book starts off with a ton of potential but at some point I began to lose interest. By the end, I was reading just to finish rather than being fully engrossed in the novel.
Ninety-year-old Peggy has died and her caretaker, Natalka, believes it was no ordinary death. When Natalka was cleaning out Peggy's home she noticed there was a large collection of crime novels and each came with a dedication to Peggy. She approaches Detective Sergeant Harbinder Kaur with her suspicions. After a gunman breaks in to steal one of the books, Harbinder sets out to determine if Peggy was murdered.
A cool premise and I did like the combination of a professional detective as well as a unique cast of amateur sleuths. The story starts off strong and I liked learning the background info of each character. The chapters alternate between the different characters and the pacing was pretty decent at first as there was quite a lot of action. Somewhere along the way, I became bored with the mystery. Perhaps it was because I was in a grouchy mood. However, I do think a great book allows you to escape from real life and provides a nice distraction. And since that didn't happen here for a significant portion of the book, I'm going to pin some of that on the writing.
Not a horrible mystery, but not a memorable one either.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review here. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
Ninety-year-old Peggy has died and her caretaker, Natalka, believes it was no ordinary death. When Natalka was cleaning out Peggy's home she noticed there was a large collection of crime novels and each came with a dedication to Peggy. She approaches Detective Sergeant Harbinder Kaur with her suspicions. After a gunman breaks in to steal one of the books, Harbinder sets out to determine if Peggy was murdered.
A cool premise and I did like the combination of a professional detective as well as a unique cast of amateur sleuths. The story starts off strong and I liked learning the background info of each character. The chapters alternate between the different characters and the pacing was pretty decent at first as there was quite a lot of action. Somewhere along the way, I became bored with the mystery. Perhaps it was because I was in a grouchy mood. However, I do think a great book allows you to escape from real life and provides a nice distraction. And since that didn't happen here for a significant portion of the book, I'm going to pin some of that on the writing.
Not a horrible mystery, but not a memorable one either.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher but was under no obligation to post a review here. All views expressed are my honest opinion.
December 21, 2020
If you gaze up at that window facing the Shoreham Beach, you would have noticed that elderly woman. She'd be decked out with her binoculars and a handy pen and notebook nearby. Nothing got past ol' Peggy when she sat in that lookout chair.
Now most people would think that a ninety year old did her daily routine for entertainment and to pass away the hours. But for Peggy it was more than that. The time finally came when Peggy sat facing the shore with sightless eyes. Her caregiver, Natalka, came upon her that day. Peggy never got the chance to share what she saw moving along in the sand and the wind. And then, no one felt differently while attending the funeral. Old age and all that......
But Natalka felt unsettled. She knew that familiar feeling easing itself in at the pit of her stomach while growing up in the Ukraine. That's why she contacted DS Harbinder Kaur of the West Sussex CID. They were to meet at The Coffee Shack down the street from Peggy. As witnesses and observers were interviewed by Harbinder, Natalka began to rally around Benedict who owned the shop and Edwin who was Peggy's neighbor.
Soon the trio begins sharing notes and ideas with Harbinder. At first, Harbinder blows them off with their outlandish imaginations. But now she's taking them deadly serious when the group is threatened by a masked intruder with a gun. Someone doesn't want them sticking their noses where they don't belong.
Elly Griffiths is a renowned author of the Ruth Galloway Mysteries and other offerings. This is the second book in the Harbinder Kaur Series. She's wrapped this one up with plenty of twisties and dead bodies. It doesn't circle around as a cosy mystery and it's not lined with blood and guts either. There's a distinct Agatha Christie flavor with the corners folded in at the end. Griffiths has a clear cut sense of humor and it shows up well in her dialogue and in the sometimes quirky actions of her characters. She's especially creative in The Postscript Murders with the mystery surrounding some unpredictable authors familiar with Peggy and Peggy with quite the backstory herself. You'll find yourself in the center of a moving stage with players who tend to shift gears fast and furious.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Quercus Books and to the talented Elly Griffiths for the opportunity.
Now most people would think that a ninety year old did her daily routine for entertainment and to pass away the hours. But for Peggy it was more than that. The time finally came when Peggy sat facing the shore with sightless eyes. Her caregiver, Natalka, came upon her that day. Peggy never got the chance to share what she saw moving along in the sand and the wind. And then, no one felt differently while attending the funeral. Old age and all that......
But Natalka felt unsettled. She knew that familiar feeling easing itself in at the pit of her stomach while growing up in the Ukraine. That's why she contacted DS Harbinder Kaur of the West Sussex CID. They were to meet at The Coffee Shack down the street from Peggy. As witnesses and observers were interviewed by Harbinder, Natalka began to rally around Benedict who owned the shop and Edwin who was Peggy's neighbor.
Soon the trio begins sharing notes and ideas with Harbinder. At first, Harbinder blows them off with their outlandish imaginations. But now she's taking them deadly serious when the group is threatened by a masked intruder with a gun. Someone doesn't want them sticking their noses where they don't belong.
Elly Griffiths is a renowned author of the Ruth Galloway Mysteries and other offerings. This is the second book in the Harbinder Kaur Series. She's wrapped this one up with plenty of twisties and dead bodies. It doesn't circle around as a cosy mystery and it's not lined with blood and guts either. There's a distinct Agatha Christie flavor with the corners folded in at the end. Griffiths has a clear cut sense of humor and it shows up well in her dialogue and in the sometimes quirky actions of her characters. She's especially creative in The Postscript Murders with the mystery surrounding some unpredictable authors familiar with Peggy and Peggy with quite the backstory herself. You'll find yourself in the center of a moving stage with players who tend to shift gears fast and furious.
I received a copy of this book through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Quercus Books and to the talented Elly Griffiths for the opportunity.
February 12, 2022
Before picking up The Postscript Murders, I had come to the conclusion that it was just not practical or possible for some of the main elements from The Stranger Diaries to carry over. This was mostly true with the story within a story format since the short story, The Stranger, was very unique to Clare, the first book's main character. The short story not only introduced the gothic atmosphere, but the fictional author as well, both of which had a distinct presence throughout the book.
I mention this in hopes that no one goes in and is immediately disappointed. The Postscript Murders is a terrific murder mystery, but it does not carry over several elements that made The Stranger Diaries unique and memorable. It can be jarring. Once or twice, I thought to myself that it almost felt as if it were written by a different author, or was part of a different series.
As I listened to the story on audio, I realized the tie that binds the two books together isn't the story within a story format. Instead it is the writing process that is the central theme. In The Postscript Murders, when an elderly woman, Peggy, is found deceased in her flat no one thinks anything of it. What they found unsettling were the books upon books which all had authors acknowledging her. "Thanks for the help Peggy!" or "Couldn't have done it without you!" Things become even more unsettling when our investigators learn that she was considered to be a 'Murder Consultant'. This starts a journey where Harbinder learns more about the writing and publishing world than she could possibly have ever wanted to know. It was quite humorous at times when she would ponder over what a book blogger was or a beta reader.
But while there are differences between the two Harbinder stories, there are some similarities. Most importantly - Harbinder is still not the main character. That belongs to Natalka, Peggy's caregiver, Benedict, who owns a local coffee shop, and Edwin - Peggy's elderly neighbor. We know they are main characters, because they actually tell us so at the end of the book! When Natalka learns that more than one author received a note saying "We are coming for you", the three amateur sleuths decide to help Harbinder out and go to a crime writing festival and start asking questions.
I had the pleasure of listening to this on audio. It was wonderful. The narrator, Nina Wadia, did an absolutely fantastic job. In fact, going forward I will be listening to the stories instead of reading them because she was able to give Harbinder and the others personality that I wasn't able to get from just reading alone. But more importantly, I really enjoyed the mystery and story in general. The characters were quirky, but also fleshed out with stories and issues of their own. Plus, there were lots of red herrings for me to fall trap to.
Rating: 4.5 stars
I mention this in hopes that no one goes in and is immediately disappointed. The Postscript Murders is a terrific murder mystery, but it does not carry over several elements that made The Stranger Diaries unique and memorable. It can be jarring. Once or twice, I thought to myself that it almost felt as if it were written by a different author, or was part of a different series.
As I listened to the story on audio, I realized the tie that binds the two books together isn't the story within a story format. Instead it is the writing process that is the central theme. In The Postscript Murders, when an elderly woman, Peggy, is found deceased in her flat no one thinks anything of it. What they found unsettling were the books upon books which all had authors acknowledging her. "Thanks for the help Peggy!" or "Couldn't have done it without you!" Things become even more unsettling when our investigators learn that she was considered to be a 'Murder Consultant'. This starts a journey where Harbinder learns more about the writing and publishing world than she could possibly have ever wanted to know. It was quite humorous at times when she would ponder over what a book blogger was or a beta reader.
But while there are differences between the two Harbinder stories, there are some similarities. Most importantly - Harbinder is still not the main character. That belongs to Natalka, Peggy's caregiver, Benedict, who owns a local coffee shop, and Edwin - Peggy's elderly neighbor. We know they are main characters, because they actually tell us so at the end of the book! When Natalka learns that more than one author received a note saying "We are coming for you", the three amateur sleuths decide to help Harbinder out and go to a crime writing festival and start asking questions.
I had the pleasure of listening to this on audio. It was wonderful. The narrator, Nina Wadia, did an absolutely fantastic job. In fact, going forward I will be listening to the stories instead of reading them because she was able to give Harbinder and the others personality that I wasn't able to get from just reading alone. But more importantly, I really enjoyed the mystery and story in general. The characters were quirky, but also fleshed out with stories and issues of their own. Plus, there were lots of red herrings for me to fall trap to.
Rating: 4.5 stars
August 15, 2021
P.S. I Love You.
I think.
This is a difficult review to write because I loved every part of the book except one. I’ll explain further but first the positives:
Unique characters, many types not often written about.
Lovely English countryside, colloquialisms, and manners. I love reading about the UK!
The heart beats around Mystery and Thriller authors and their writing process, book tours, interaction with other authors, publicists, etc. I found this fascinating.
Intricate mystery with clues dropped into the story. I wondered often where this was going.
Plus, a gorgeous cover. I purchased a hardback copy so it'll look great on my shelf.
Now the drawback for me: This is a character driven story with wonderfully written dimensional people. Except one. I didn’t like DS Harbinder Kaur and her description seemed forced.
She seemed okay in The Stranger Diaries but there wasn’t so much of her. In Postscripts, she has much to say about her race and the prejudices against her but she’s racist herself and her many comments were off putting. She also subtly bullied her partner.
That being said, I don't have to like a character to love the book and everything else was sublime.
Purchased from The Book Depository.
I think.
This is a difficult review to write because I loved every part of the book except one. I’ll explain further but first the positives:
Unique characters, many types not often written about.
Lovely English countryside, colloquialisms, and manners. I love reading about the UK!
The heart beats around Mystery and Thriller authors and their writing process, book tours, interaction with other authors, publicists, etc. I found this fascinating.
Intricate mystery with clues dropped into the story. I wondered often where this was going.
Plus, a gorgeous cover. I purchased a hardback copy so it'll look great on my shelf.
Now the drawback for me: This is a character driven story with wonderfully written dimensional people. Except one. I didn’t like DS Harbinder Kaur and her description seemed forced.
She seemed okay in The Stranger Diaries but there wasn’t so much of her. In Postscripts, she has much to say about her race and the prejudices against her but she’s racist herself and her many comments were off putting. She also subtly bullied her partner.
That being said, I don't have to like a character to love the book and everything else was sublime.
Purchased from The Book Depository.
March 12, 2023
Such a fun mystery with a whole plethora of twists and turns. I am sure I want to be just like Peggy, the ninety year old character in the book, but certainly not the part of being dead!
More to come in my review!
More to come in my review!
February 24, 2021
In 2018 this author gave us The Stranger Diaries, a creepy & entertaining story that introduced DS Harbinder Kaur. She was more of a secondary character but with the arrival of this book, she steps into the shoes of MC. Not only is she up to the task, her unique voice is one of the most enjoyable aspects of this literary murder mystery.
It all kicks off with the death of Peggy Smith, a 90 year old woman living in quaint-sounding Shoreham-by-Sea. She’s found by her care giver Natalka, sitting in her chair by the window & surrounded by her beloved mystery books. It’s sad but hardly a shock, right? Well….
It’s just that she was absolutely fine when Natalka popped in that morning. And there’s the small matter of the business card on the table that refers to Peggy as a “Murder Consultant”. Maybe Natalka better talk to someone.
Luckily, her visit to the police station gets her a meeting with DS Harbinder Kaur. Neither one can know it yet but it’s the beginning of a strange, deadly & entertaining adventure, Because sudden death doesn’t stop with Peggy. Pretty soon, mystery authors who were acquainted with the little old ‘murder consultant” by the sea begin keeling over at an alarming rate.
In short order, Kaur has several investigations on the go & whether she wants it or not, she’s also got outside help. Three of Peggy’s friends decide to act as Kaur’s eyes & ears. It’s not exactly an illustrious crew….a mysterious/gorgeous care giver (Natalka), an ex-monk turned coffee guy (Benny) & a fastidious OAP (Edwin). It’s like belonging to a really weird book club. But oddly enough, Harbinder is kind of enjoying it.
So you’ve probably figured out this is not another gritty thriller. It’s more than that. As events lead police, Kaur & her team of misfits on a dash across the UK, many references are made to well known mystery/crime writers & their work. There’s definitely a golden age vibe to the story, albeit with a decidedly modern edge & more humour. Intricate plotting, compelling characters, smart dialogue & plenty of dry wit makes this an engaging read.
At the centre of it all is Harbinder Kaur, a 30-something gay Asian cop who lives with her parents. I really like this character. She’s such an intriguing mix with one foot in the traditional Asian community of her parents while the other is firmly planted in her modern reality of being a cop. Several characters take turns narrating from their POV but hers is the primary voice. And it’s one full of intelligence, determination & dryly observant humour.
Plenty of red herrings keep you guessing as to who is behind it all while a variety of secondary characters add colour & depth to the story. I really enjoyed this & look forward to seeing how Kaur & her colleagues develop in the next one. Highly recommend for fans of Agatha Christie & Anthony Horowitz’ Atticus Pünd series.
It all kicks off with the death of Peggy Smith, a 90 year old woman living in quaint-sounding Shoreham-by-Sea. She’s found by her care giver Natalka, sitting in her chair by the window & surrounded by her beloved mystery books. It’s sad but hardly a shock, right? Well….
It’s just that she was absolutely fine when Natalka popped in that morning. And there’s the small matter of the business card on the table that refers to Peggy as a “Murder Consultant”. Maybe Natalka better talk to someone.
Luckily, her visit to the police station gets her a meeting with DS Harbinder Kaur. Neither one can know it yet but it’s the beginning of a strange, deadly & entertaining adventure, Because sudden death doesn’t stop with Peggy. Pretty soon, mystery authors who were acquainted with the little old ‘murder consultant” by the sea begin keeling over at an alarming rate.
In short order, Kaur has several investigations on the go & whether she wants it or not, she’s also got outside help. Three of Peggy’s friends decide to act as Kaur’s eyes & ears. It’s not exactly an illustrious crew….a mysterious/gorgeous care giver (Natalka), an ex-monk turned coffee guy (Benny) & a fastidious OAP (Edwin). It’s like belonging to a really weird book club. But oddly enough, Harbinder is kind of enjoying it.
So you’ve probably figured out this is not another gritty thriller. It’s more than that. As events lead police, Kaur & her team of misfits on a dash across the UK, many references are made to well known mystery/crime writers & their work. There’s definitely a golden age vibe to the story, albeit with a decidedly modern edge & more humour. Intricate plotting, compelling characters, smart dialogue & plenty of dry wit makes this an engaging read.
At the centre of it all is Harbinder Kaur, a 30-something gay Asian cop who lives with her parents. I really like this character. She’s such an intriguing mix with one foot in the traditional Asian community of her parents while the other is firmly planted in her modern reality of being a cop. Several characters take turns narrating from their POV but hers is the primary voice. And it’s one full of intelligence, determination & dryly observant humour.
Plenty of red herrings keep you guessing as to who is behind it all while a variety of secondary characters add colour & depth to the story. I really enjoyed this & look forward to seeing how Kaur & her colleagues develop in the next one. Highly recommend for fans of Agatha Christie & Anthony Horowitz’ Atticus Pünd series.
March 2, 2021
3.5 cozy stars
My favorite part of this book is the scenery – I so want to visit Shoreham and Edinburgh after reading this book. Maybe I could hire a driver though to take me on the route?
This book marks the return of DS Harbinder Kaur who is on the job investigating a possibly suspicious death followed by a string of murders! Kaur first appeared in “Stranger Diaries” which I really liked!
Peggy Smith, a 90-year-old, has died and her home aide/carer Natalka is concerned that it might be suspicious, especially when she finds an interesting business card stating “Murder Consultant.” Soon we are immersed in the world of mystery book writers, including a book festival in Edinburgh.
There’s a fun trio that is investigating the “crimes” – Natalka, a coffee shop owner Benedict, and Peggy’s neighbor, friend, and snappy dresser Edwin. Though the trio was surrounded by murders, I felt that they were safe from harm in this cozy mystery. I found this one to be reminiscent of Agatha Christie.
An enjoyable read, but I did not like it as much as “Stranger Diaries” and I hope that in future books Harbinder Kaur is a bit more optimistic and happier!
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and NetGalley for the copy of this one to read.
My favorite part of this book is the scenery – I so want to visit Shoreham and Edinburgh after reading this book. Maybe I could hire a driver though to take me on the route?
This book marks the return of DS Harbinder Kaur who is on the job investigating a possibly suspicious death followed by a string of murders! Kaur first appeared in “Stranger Diaries” which I really liked!
Peggy Smith, a 90-year-old, has died and her home aide/carer Natalka is concerned that it might be suspicious, especially when she finds an interesting business card stating “Murder Consultant.” Soon we are immersed in the world of mystery book writers, including a book festival in Edinburgh.
There’s a fun trio that is investigating the “crimes” – Natalka, a coffee shop owner Benedict, and Peggy’s neighbor, friend, and snappy dresser Edwin. Though the trio was surrounded by murders, I felt that they were safe from harm in this cozy mystery. I found this one to be reminiscent of Agatha Christie.
An enjoyable read, but I did not like it as much as “Stranger Diaries” and I hope that in future books Harbinder Kaur is a bit more optimistic and happier!
Thank you to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and NetGalley for the copy of this one to read.
March 3, 2024
The Postscript Murders by Elly Griffiths is the second instalment in the DS Harbinder Kaur series but it easily reads well as a standalone. A ninety-year-old woman dies in her home of what is believed to be natural causes. She was an avid fan of mystery novels and their authors and collected many volumes of these books. The young woman who was her carer becomes suspicious of the circumstances of her demise and relays her fears to Detective Sergeant Harbinder Kaur. Soon, crime writers begin dying in odd ways. The investigation will take the reader from Sussex to Aberdeen to Edinburgh and back. Cozies are normally not my favorite genre but I stayed with this one. The characters are well-developed and the fact that The Postscript Murders reads like an old-fashioned mystery (Agatha Christie comes to mind) kept me turning the pages. This genre is a departure for Elly Griffiths but she does cozies justice. Highly recommended. Thank you to Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, NetGalley and the author for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 29, 2020
4.5★s
Peggy Smith loved to gaze out her window and people watch. She was ninety years old and her mind was as sharp as ever. She loved taking notes and creating murder plots. But the morning Natalka, Peggy’s carer, arrived and discovered Peggy had passed away, still sitting in her chair at the window, would be the beginning of an intriguing and complex mystery.
DS Harbinder Kaur was interested in what Natalka had to tell her, though also decidedly skeptical. Peggy had been classed as a “murder consultant” and the authors who had used her services had recognized her in their books. What were the postcards that were being received, all about? Did they mean anything? When an out of print book was stolen at gun point, Natalka and Benedict were shocked. There was no harm, but Harbinder knew something was going on that needed a full investigation…
The Postscript Murders is the 2nd in the DS Harbinder Kaur series by Elly Griffiths and it was fun, entertaining and filled with charm. All about books, authors, publishers and murder, it felt more like a cosy mystery with Natalka, Benedict and Edwin searching for answers, and Harbinder doing the “gruesome” parts. An excellent read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Peggy Smith loved to gaze out her window and people watch. She was ninety years old and her mind was as sharp as ever. She loved taking notes and creating murder plots. But the morning Natalka, Peggy’s carer, arrived and discovered Peggy had passed away, still sitting in her chair at the window, would be the beginning of an intriguing and complex mystery.
DS Harbinder Kaur was interested in what Natalka had to tell her, though also decidedly skeptical. Peggy had been classed as a “murder consultant” and the authors who had used her services had recognized her in their books. What were the postcards that were being received, all about? Did they mean anything? When an out of print book was stolen at gun point, Natalka and Benedict were shocked. There was no harm, but Harbinder knew something was going on that needed a full investigation…
The Postscript Murders is the 2nd in the DS Harbinder Kaur series by Elly Griffiths and it was fun, entertaining and filled with charm. All about books, authors, publishers and murder, it felt more like a cosy mystery with Natalka, Benedict and Edwin searching for answers, and Harbinder doing the “gruesome” parts. An excellent read which I recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
May 14, 2023
2.5 Stars
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