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Wonderland Detective Agency #1
Dead as a Dodo: A Paranormal Cozy Witch Mystery
From the Amazon bestselling author of the Wonky Inn books comes a brand-new magical fantasy witch detective series.
Dodo was dead. And there the matter should have rested.
At least for DS Elise Liddell.
Emotionally burnt out, she considers herself retired from police work.
By rights it has nothing to do with her, but someone killed the poor man and, as Elise can resist everything except a good puzzle (and a shot of Blue Goblin vodka), here she is tangled up in a murder case.
When a petty thief hands himself into the Ministry of Witches Police Department, Elise’s ex-colleagues consider it an open and shut case.
She’s less convinced.
Revitalized by the investigation, she takes the suspect on as the first client of her new paranormal detective agency. What would this insignificant wretch have to gain by murdering the cantankerous old wizard? Elise knows full well, by uncovering the motive she can reveal the true killer.
But she forgets, in Tumble Town even the shadows are alive … and now someone or something is hunting her.
----------------------------------------------------
The Wonderland Detective Agency Series is a paranormal cozy mystery series, set in the same Wonkyverse that readers have already fallen in love with. While some of the characters and places will be instantly familiar, Wycherley effortlessly casts her spell so that her zany new friends quickly become ours too.
Packed full of witches, wizards, warlocks, ghosts, shadow people and more, you’ll love this glimpse into the dark side.
Take a walk in Tumble Town today!
Dodo was dead. And there the matter should have rested.
At least for DS Elise Liddell.
Emotionally burnt out, she considers herself retired from police work.
By rights it has nothing to do with her, but someone killed the poor man and, as Elise can resist everything except a good puzzle (and a shot of Blue Goblin vodka), here she is tangled up in a murder case.
When a petty thief hands himself into the Ministry of Witches Police Department, Elise’s ex-colleagues consider it an open and shut case.
She’s less convinced.
Revitalized by the investigation, she takes the suspect on as the first client of her new paranormal detective agency. What would this insignificant wretch have to gain by murdering the cantankerous old wizard? Elise knows full well, by uncovering the motive she can reveal the true killer.
But she forgets, in Tumble Town even the shadows are alive … and now someone or something is hunting her.
----------------------------------------------------
The Wonderland Detective Agency Series is a paranormal cozy mystery series, set in the same Wonkyverse that readers have already fallen in love with. While some of the characters and places will be instantly familiar, Wycherley effortlessly casts her spell so that her zany new friends quickly become ours too.
Packed full of witches, wizards, warlocks, ghosts, shadow people and more, you’ll love this glimpse into the dark side.
Take a walk in Tumble Town today!
Audible Audio
First published April 29, 2019
165 people are currently reading
286 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
October 9, 2022
This witchy cozy mystery was lots of fun. I loved the allusions to the Alice books by Lewis Carroll, which were sometimes obvious and other times not, but always handled with humour. Wycherley--I'm tempted to call her Witcherley, LOL--has her protagonist devouring cakes and pastries, although none of them are labelled "Eat me"; furthermore. Elise cannot resist Blue Goblin vodka even though it is not labelled "Drink me". The book slams against the fourth wall quite hard (but in a droll way) when Hattie Dashery, proprietress of The Hat and Dashery and a devotee of all things Alice, tells Elise that her name closely resembles that of the little girl on whom Carroll based his young heroine. "Isn't that a coincidence?" says the former Detective Constable Liddell, rather kindly but probably suppressing the urge to roll her eyes. Sometimes the allusions are handled more subtly, such as Elise's encounter with the pigeon, or the appearance of the cat who seems to smile at her, and promptly disappears. And I could add to this list but I think you get the point.
But in spite of the presence and practice of magick, Wycherley's London is not a clone of the Potterverse (if anything, it is closer to Pratchett's Ankh-Morpork). Witches, faeries, pixies and the like are not forced to sequester themselves to practice their arts, nor do they live in constant dread of being detected by "muggles" (here referred to as "mundane"). Characters deal with realistic adult problems: stress, grief, depression, vandalism, unemployment, alcoholism, strained relationships, corporate corruption, etc. I think it is this blend of realism and fantasy which makes Wycherley's world interesting.
But in spite of the presence and practice of magick, Wycherley's London is not a clone of the Potterverse (if anything, it is closer to Pratchett's Ankh-Morpork). Witches, faeries, pixies and the like are not forced to sequester themselves to practice their arts, nor do they live in constant dread of being detected by "muggles" (here referred to as "mundane"). Characters deal with realistic adult problems: stress, grief, depression, vandalism, unemployment, alcoholism, strained relationships, corporate corruption, etc. I think it is this blend of realism and fantasy which makes Wycherley's world interesting.
September 17, 2025
That was a really good start to a series.
I think I'm going backwards with this author, I first read her Ghastly grimoire series and I saw the characters from this book there so I decided to read this series... but now I see that in this book there are characters from two other of her series... luckily, the author has made it so that I could read perfectly even if I haven't read the others...
I really liked Elise, she was in a bad place at the beginning but she decided to try her best and move forward and I respected her a lot for it, her struggle to keep going was seen throughout the whole story and I was glad that it showed the work it takes. The secondary characters were interesting and I want to get to know her new detective team better.
I love the way this author built the world in these series, it makes the reading experience so immersive is really entertaining... so much so that I don't mind the cliffhangers, and it seems to be a constant with this author so far... but I'm so engaged with the story and its characters that I don't mind at all.
POV: single
Tropes: mystery, private detective FMC, magical contemporary world, witch FMC.
Spice: none (no love interest so far)
CW: death, violence.
I think I'm going backwards with this author, I first read her Ghastly grimoire series and I saw the characters from this book there so I decided to read this series... but now I see that in this book there are characters from two other of her series... luckily, the author has made it so that I could read perfectly even if I haven't read the others...
I really liked Elise, she was in a bad place at the beginning but she decided to try her best and move forward and I respected her a lot for it, her struggle to keep going was seen throughout the whole story and I was glad that it showed the work it takes. The secondary characters were interesting and I want to get to know her new detective team better.
I love the way this author built the world in these series, it makes the reading experience so immersive is really entertaining... so much so that I don't mind the cliffhangers, and it seems to be a constant with this author so far... but I'm so engaged with the story and its characters that I don't mind at all.
POV: single
Tropes: mystery, private detective FMC, magical contemporary world, witch FMC.
Spice: none (no love interest so far)
CW: death, violence.
March 20, 2023
I started this series in the middle and I am here to tell you not to do the same. It's better read in order. I just now got into the first book and I already knew who the murderer was from reading some of the other books previously because some of the storyline continues in further novels. This book also has a connection to the Wonky Inn series. I love the quirky world that Wycherley has created, with its blend of magickal and realism, and the narrator Elise's voice.
September 13, 2023
Acquired Kindle edition when offered free on Amazon.
I'm not a big fan of urban fantasy, but I enjoyed this and thought it was well done. The characters were interesting and well developed. Future adventures in the series are set up without this first book being an unsatisfactory cliff-hanger. Would have gone 3.5 stars, but not enough to round up.
I'm not a big fan of urban fantasy, but I enjoyed this and thought it was well done. The characters were interesting and well developed. Future adventures in the series are set up without this first book being an unsatisfactory cliff-hanger. Would have gone 3.5 stars, but not enough to round up.
May 5, 2021
I think this is the first book I've ever read by this author, but it certainly won't be the last. Dead as a Dodo is a spell binding book. It captivates you from the beginning. The story, the characters, the setting, it all makes it a magical read. Their is a dose of humour and mystery, the perfect combination. I look forward to reading more from this author.
November 10, 2023
Hello Fellow Readers,
I would have read this book in one sitting had I the time, which is very refreshing since it's been a while since I have felt that way about a book. One of the main reasons I liked this book so much was the world, the Fantasy elements mixed in with a little urban realism made for an interesting setting. I was a little disappointed at the lack of magic usage as I am always curious about that aspect in books like this. I also really liked Elise, logical and realistic BAMF. I like how she handled everything, even if she was grieving the death of her partner and recovering from being an alcoholic.
The story was at times a bit predictable and cliche but Wycherley still did a great job at keeping me interested and entertained. I did guess who the killer was pretty much immediately, but that never bothers me in these kinds of books. I really liked the secondary characters, who I assume we will see more of in the next installment, but they all stood out and were enjoyable with links to the main story. The ending did feel rushed but I do understand as the first book in a series there's a lot of setup and introduction involved as well as setting the groundwork for the overarching main story.
Overall, I will definitely be reading the next book
I would have read this book in one sitting had I the time, which is very refreshing since it's been a while since I have felt that way about a book. One of the main reasons I liked this book so much was the world, the Fantasy elements mixed in with a little urban realism made for an interesting setting. I was a little disappointed at the lack of magic usage as I am always curious about that aspect in books like this. I also really liked Elise, logical and realistic BAMF. I like how she handled everything, even if she was grieving the death of her partner and recovering from being an alcoholic.
The story was at times a bit predictable and cliche but Wycherley still did a great job at keeping me interested and entertained. I did guess who the killer was pretty much immediately, but that never bothers me in these kinds of books. I really liked the secondary characters, who I assume we will see more of in the next installment, but they all stood out and were enjoyable with links to the main story. The ending did feel rushed but I do understand as the first book in a series there's a lot of setup and introduction involved as well as setting the groundwork for the overarching main story.
Overall, I will definitely be reading the next book
January 11, 2026
I just caught up to date with the Wonky inn series and the Ghastly Grimoire series, so thought I would see what else this author writes and found this book. I am so glad I did because I was delighted to find out I had met many of the characters already and it provided to be another great series. Has this author written a bad one? If so I haven't found it. Not sure which order they are written in (and I don't think it matters) but all three series seem to be a spin off from each other and include a number of characters from across the series, making each adventure or book feel like catching up with old friends. This series focus on Elise Liddell an ex policewoman who starts her own private detective agency after the death of her partner. Elise is a great main character and fits in well not only with the residents of Tumble Town but also in the hearts of her fans and listeners. I wasn't sure if this was the book for me because I cry easily and reading the blurb where it mentioned her partners death it nearly put me off, so glad it didn't as I would have missed out on an entertaining story (and there wasn't a tear insight). The mystery was good and explains how the Wonderland agency comes about, while she is investigating Dodo's death, which does get explained. I am off to start the next book.
DS Elise Liddell is struggling to come to terms with her partners death. She can't face returning back to work and the only thing calling her name is a bottle. That is until somebody turns to her bar stool for help, he has just discovered his friend dead. Like a bad hang over her involvement doesn't end there, when the same man turns himself in for committing the crime. Elise's dormant skills perk up and she finds herself investigating the dead wizard death. If only she was getting paid for it?
I liked the narrator. She brought the story to life, even the ghosts and helped to captivate this listener
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
DS Elise Liddell is struggling to come to terms with her partners death. She can't face returning back to work and the only thing calling her name is a bottle. That is until somebody turns to her bar stool for help, he has just discovered his friend dead. Like a bad hang over her involvement doesn't end there, when the same man turns himself in for committing the crime. Elise's dormant skills perk up and she finds herself investigating the dead wizard death. If only she was getting paid for it?
I liked the narrator. She brought the story to life, even the ghosts and helped to captivate this listener
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 30, 2021
This was a treat to read, if you are a fan of Jeannie Wycherley's Wonky Inn series, then Tumble Town is no secret, for anyone new to this author it is a treat. it is the "darker" side of magical London, where all the grey and black wizards and witches peddle their wares, Elise Liddell is thirty two and a recently retired Detective Inspector from the Ministry of Witches Police Department (MOWPD). after losing her partner Ezra Izax, Elise has left the MOWPD she is not coping with the loss of her mentor and friend well she is drinking more alcohol than is healthy and isn't caring for herself. But she finds herself drawn into a murder in Tumble Town, she finds that what she thought she new about the place might not be the case. The people are not all bad and finally finding herself with a purpose she sets out to solve the case of the murder of Wizard Dodo and so much more!
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was well written with good characters. , Tumble Town is a great setting, we know from Alf's brief adventures that it is not the "bad" place it is made out to be, as with everything a bad few have tainted the rest, people see poverty and think badness, but many of the people like the eccentric Hattie Dashery, and Wootton the insightful barman from the The Pig and Pepper.
I like Elise, she is so broken in the beginning we are along for the journey as she finds a purpose and a reason to move on and find a new path for herself and she can start to face her grief and move on with friends old and new,
You do not need to have read the Wonky Inn series to enjoy this new series,
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, it was well written with good characters. , Tumble Town is a great setting, we know from Alf's brief adventures that it is not the "bad" place it is made out to be, as with everything a bad few have tainted the rest, people see poverty and think badness, but many of the people like the eccentric Hattie Dashery, and Wootton the insightful barman from the The Pig and Pepper.
I like Elise, she is so broken in the beginning we are along for the journey as she finds a purpose and a reason to move on and find a new path for herself and she can start to face her grief and move on with friends old and new,
You do not need to have read the Wonky Inn series to enjoy this new series,
July 23, 2025
I appreciate that this story comes full circle: from the introduction of the main protagonist being out of work and mourning her partner, to discovering a new avenue for her career, and finding closure on a case and on the loss of her partner. There was some information that did not move the plot forward, such as certain descriptions or side information about a love for a particular type of coffee. Perhaps that was meant to add a layer to the character or better connect with some readers. The narrator also sounded older than the age of the MC. Sometimes narration makes all the difference, honestly, bringing the story more to life, but the story felt a little flat for most of the journey. I think the root cause was that the stakes, while present, did not put enough significance or value on the character at the crux of the MC's big mystery case (I don't want to give any spoilers). Since the significance of that character was not laid out until the midpoint of the story, I had no immediate investment in trying to get the case solved, particularly because the case takes place in an already crime-ridden area—so why would this particular crime be significant? That information could have been better front-loaded.
Overall, given that the stakes and conflicts were not too intense, I believe that this story is, in fact, a "cozy" read. All characters played their part, and there was a decent enough mystery around the "who-done-it" factor.
Overall, given that the stakes and conflicts were not too intense, I believe that this story is, in fact, a "cozy" read. All characters played their part, and there was a decent enough mystery around the "who-done-it" factor.
April 28, 2021
Poor Dodo!! I will miss him!
What you are asking? Dodo and Elise made appearances in the Wonky Inn Series. This new wonderful series is a spinoff from that. However, Mark my words!
Mark my words!!!! This Wonderland Detective Agency is going to be a phenomenal series on its own!!!!!. Mark my words!!!
If not familiar with Wonky Inn, don't worry, you get a taste for it in this book. Some characters cross over to help launch this new series. Those of who have read a Wonky Inn will recognize them.
For first timers, you get introduce to this world and its inhabitants. This series has its own fantastic characters: our heroine and her landlady to name a few.
I am loving how the series and agency got the name. Sorry to have to loose Dodo though. But....and that is a big but! It delivers a great story and has you hooked and looking for the next one. You need more information and want to find out what happened to (sorry cannot say -- would give the story away) and you want to read for yourself.
If you can't wait for next one, read the Wonky Inn, and learn and love the world.
As a first in series, definitely a standalone story. I admit it is hard to say that because of having read Wonky Inn series.
A definite must read for everyone!!! Even to escape from here for a bit.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
What you are asking? Dodo and Elise made appearances in the Wonky Inn Series. This new wonderful series is a spinoff from that. However, Mark my words!
Mark my words!!!! This Wonderland Detective Agency is going to be a phenomenal series on its own!!!!!. Mark my words!!!
If not familiar with Wonky Inn, don't worry, you get a taste for it in this book. Some characters cross over to help launch this new series. Those of who have read a Wonky Inn will recognize them.
For first timers, you get introduce to this world and its inhabitants. This series has its own fantastic characters: our heroine and her landlady to name a few.
I am loving how the series and agency got the name. Sorry to have to loose Dodo though. But....and that is a big but! It delivers a great story and has you hooked and looking for the next one. You need more information and want to find out what happened to (sorry cannot say -- would give the story away) and you want to read for yourself.
If you can't wait for next one, read the Wonky Inn, and learn and love the world.
As a first in series, definitely a standalone story. I admit it is hard to say that because of having read Wonky Inn series.
A definite must read for everyone!!! Even to escape from here for a bit.
This is my honest and freely given review. I did receive an ARC book.
July 19, 2025
This was an absolutely fantastic audiobook! I haven't felt this way about a book in ages, but I genuinely would have devoured this one in a single sitting if I had the time. That "can't put it down" feeling is so refreshing! What truly made this book shine for me was the world. The brilliant blend of fantasy and urban realism created such a unique and engaging setting. My only very minor critique is that I wished there was a bit more magic, as I'm always curious to see how those systems are explored.
And then there's Elise! She's wonderful, logical and realistic who I immediately connected with. Watching her navigate challenges, all while grieving her partner and dealing with her past alcoholism, was incredibly compelling. While I'll admit some parts of the story were a bit predictable or leaned into common tropes, Wycherley's storytelling prowess kept me completely engrossed. Discovering the killer wasn't a surprise for me, but that never diminishes my enjoyment of a good mystery. The secondary characters were also a delight; they were all distinct and enjoyable, adding depth to the narrative, and I'm excited to see how their stories unfold in the next book. The ending did feel a little rushed, but I understand the need to lay a lot of groundwork and set up the overarching plot in a series opener.
And then there's Elise! She's wonderful, logical and realistic who I immediately connected with. Watching her navigate challenges, all while grieving her partner and dealing with her past alcoholism, was incredibly compelling. While I'll admit some parts of the story were a bit predictable or leaned into common tropes, Wycherley's storytelling prowess kept me completely engrossed. Discovering the killer wasn't a surprise for me, but that never diminishes my enjoyment of a good mystery. The secondary characters were also a delight; they were all distinct and enjoyable, adding depth to the narrative, and I'm excited to see how their stories unfold in the next book. The ending did feel a little rushed, but I understand the need to lay a lot of groundwork and set up the overarching plot in a series opener.
April 29, 2021
Dead as a Dodo - a review by Rosemary Kenny
Jeannie Wycherley has surpassed even her fantastic Wonky Inn series, as she introduces an entirely different tale of mystery and imagination, with her Wonderland Detective Agency series opener, Dead as a Dodo.
The deceased in ex-Detective Insepector Elise Liddell's case is not a centuries-extinct avian, but a Wizard of that name, found dead in his office above a milliner's.
Bereft after the death of Ezra, her former police mentor, Elise decides to become a private detective and investigate Dodo's murder...but little expects the events about to shockingly unfold.
Two murders, a prison visit ending in a new client for the Wonderland Detective Agency, several attacks, a killer unmasked, an innocent man released, a feisty milliner, two helpful ghosts and a visit to Alf's Wonky Inn, make Dead as a Dodo sparkle like a literary diamond, with Jeannie Wycherley's unerring skill in creating Elise Lidell and other new characters, as well as including familiar ones that segue seamlessly to make a magical new series opener you're guaranteed to love. Get it soon!
Jeannie Wycherley has surpassed even her fantastic Wonky Inn series, as she introduces an entirely different tale of mystery and imagination, with her Wonderland Detective Agency series opener, Dead as a Dodo.
The deceased in ex-Detective Insepector Elise Liddell's case is not a centuries-extinct avian, but a Wizard of that name, found dead in his office above a milliner's.
Bereft after the death of Ezra, her former police mentor, Elise decides to become a private detective and investigate Dodo's murder...but little expects the events about to shockingly unfold.
Two murders, a prison visit ending in a new client for the Wonderland Detective Agency, several attacks, a killer unmasked, an innocent man released, a feisty milliner, two helpful ghosts and a visit to Alf's Wonky Inn, make Dead as a Dodo sparkle like a literary diamond, with Jeannie Wycherley's unerring skill in creating Elise Lidell and other new characters, as well as including familiar ones that segue seamlessly to make a magical new series opener you're guaranteed to love. Get it soon!
May 1, 2021
Off to a Great Start !! . . .
Oh, I love this new “Wonderland Detective Agency series”! Dodo is not a bird but a dead wizard who starts Elise Liddell on her new adventure and career. Former Detective Inspector Elise had taken early retirement after the death of her partner, but her old friends are still around to lend a helping hand.
Of course, Elise lets herself get pulled into this murder. A petty thief had turned himself in to the Ministry of Witches Police Department, but that was “too easy”. So Elise accepts the thief as her first client for her new detective agency. It made no sense that her client was the killer with nothing to gain from murdering the wizard. But as she sets out to investigate, she ends up being hunted as well! Will she solve the murder before there are more deaths, especially her own?
I think one of the best things to come out of this new series is that we still run into old friends from the Wonky series. It makes the story so comfortable. Put on your detective hat and see if you can figure out the perpetrator along with Elise.
Oh, I love this new “Wonderland Detective Agency series”! Dodo is not a bird but a dead wizard who starts Elise Liddell on her new adventure and career. Former Detective Inspector Elise had taken early retirement after the death of her partner, but her old friends are still around to lend a helping hand.
Of course, Elise lets herself get pulled into this murder. A petty thief had turned himself in to the Ministry of Witches Police Department, but that was “too easy”. So Elise accepts the thief as her first client for her new detective agency. It made no sense that her client was the killer with nothing to gain from murdering the wizard. But as she sets out to investigate, she ends up being hunted as well! Will she solve the murder before there are more deaths, especially her own?
I think one of the best things to come out of this new series is that we still run into old friends from the Wonky series. It makes the story so comfortable. Put on your detective hat and see if you can figure out the perpetrator along with Elise.
September 22, 2021
An Amazing Fantastic Fun Paranormal Cozy Mystery- A Great Start for the new series!!!
Dead as a Dodo is the first book in the Wonderland Detective Agency series.
Elise Liddell is a witch detective. After the death of her partner, friend, and mentor that affect Elise so much she decides to quit the police force and open her own detective agency. When a wizard, Dodo, is murdered and the police department got the wrong killer Elise need to investigate and find the real killer.
This book is fast paced full of adventures one right after another and keeps you guessing of what the next chapter will reveal. There were so much going on and so many delightful characters that were very funny and interesting. I really love this book; it's a great page turning paranormal cozy mystery, good story line, entertaining, fun, and full of action, mystery, magic, paranormal, witches, suspense and humor.
This book is a must read for paranormal cozy mystery fans. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dead as a Dodo is the first book in the Wonderland Detective Agency series.
Elise Liddell is a witch detective. After the death of her partner, friend, and mentor that affect Elise so much she decides to quit the police force and open her own detective agency. When a wizard, Dodo, is murdered and the police department got the wrong killer Elise need to investigate and find the real killer.
This book is fast paced full of adventures one right after another and keeps you guessing of what the next chapter will reveal. There were so much going on and so many delightful characters that were very funny and interesting. I really love this book; it's a great page turning paranormal cozy mystery, good story line, entertaining, fun, and full of action, mystery, magic, paranormal, witches, suspense and humor.
This book is a must read for paranormal cozy mystery fans. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 1, 2022
Good
A spin-off from the Wonky Inn mysteries, this first in series can be read without having read those first, but they do reference events from the former series.
Elise Liddell is a burnt out Detective Inspector from the Witch police. Devastated by the loss of her mentor, she finds herself an unofficial investigator in the murder of Wizard Dodo, a spell archivist.
Deciding to start her own private detective agency is Elise’s first step in her new life. Solving Wizard Dodo’s murder is the key to making the agency a success, but Elise isn’t sure where to begin…
An enjoyable first in series, this is a story filled with enjoyable and quirky characters. The mystery itself was somewhat unsatisfactorily solved, but there were a number of loose ends that we have to hope get resolved later in the series. Primarily though, the book is mostly a means to set up our heroine and her cohorts for the new series. Tumble town seems like a fascinating place, and I look forward to reading more about it in the future.
Recommended for paranormal cosy mystery fans.
A spin-off from the Wonky Inn mysteries, this first in series can be read without having read those first, but they do reference events from the former series.
Elise Liddell is a burnt out Detective Inspector from the Witch police. Devastated by the loss of her mentor, she finds herself an unofficial investigator in the murder of Wizard Dodo, a spell archivist.
Deciding to start her own private detective agency is Elise’s first step in her new life. Solving Wizard Dodo’s murder is the key to making the agency a success, but Elise isn’t sure where to begin…
An enjoyable first in series, this is a story filled with enjoyable and quirky characters. The mystery itself was somewhat unsatisfactorily solved, but there were a number of loose ends that we have to hope get resolved later in the series. Primarily though, the book is mostly a means to set up our heroine and her cohorts for the new series. Tumble town seems like a fascinating place, and I look forward to reading more about it in the future.
Recommended for paranormal cosy mystery fans.
September 4, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
Dead as a Dodo kicks off the Wonderland Detective Agency series with a delightfully eerie blend of paranormal cozy mystery. Think witches, wizards, warlocks, ghosts, and shadow people all swirling around a heroine who’s as haunted as the cases she investigates.
Elise, a former officer with the Ministry of Witches Police Department, is reeling from the loss of her partner and spiraling into uncertainty. Down on her luck and drowning in drink, she’s not your typical cozy mystery lead and that’s exactly what makes her compelling. Her journey from grief to grit is layered with emotional depth and magical shenanigans.
The cast is wonderfully quirky, with side characters who feel plucked from a supernatural tea party. The narrator brings them all to life with impressive range, making each voice distinct and adding texture to the worldbuilding.
This is a strong start to the series—atmospheric, character-driven, and brimming with paranormal intrigue.
I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
Dead as a Dodo kicks off the Wonderland Detective Agency series with a delightfully eerie blend of paranormal cozy mystery. Think witches, wizards, warlocks, ghosts, and shadow people all swirling around a heroine who’s as haunted as the cases she investigates.
Elise, a former officer with the Ministry of Witches Police Department, is reeling from the loss of her partner and spiraling into uncertainty. Down on her luck and drowning in drink, she’s not your typical cozy mystery lead and that’s exactly what makes her compelling. Her journey from grief to grit is layered with emotional depth and magical shenanigans.
The cast is wonderfully quirky, with side characters who feel plucked from a supernatural tea party. The narrator brings them all to life with impressive range, making each voice distinct and adding texture to the worldbuilding.
This is a strong start to the series—atmospheric, character-driven, and brimming with paranormal intrigue.
I received a free copy of this audiobook in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2025
Received as an audio review copy from Story Origin, this an honest review. Wonderfully and smartly narrated by Joanna Lee, Dead as a Dodo is the perfect fantasy adventure that stands on its own while brilliantly mixing familiar elements from Alice in Wonderland along with Harry Potter. After the haunting loss of her police partner, Elise Liddel feels lost after walking away from her job as a DI at the Ministry of Witches Police Department. Elise can't wallow for long when a desperate wizard needs her help uncovering whom murdered Wizard Dodo. Deciding to make it as a private detective, Elise finds herself prowling the darker sides of Tumble Town in search for answers... and making shocking revelations that maybe some of her former colleagues could be involved; thus putting anyone Else knows and trusts in danger to catch the culprit.
A colorful story to begin this magical series.
Highly recommended.
A colorful story to begin this magical series.
Highly recommended.
April 30, 2021
Jeannie Wycherley has a winner with Dead as a Dodo. A detective who lost her partner has left the department and we meet her drunk in a bar. She also meets a reported death in the same bar as an associate of Dodo pulls her to an investigation she really cannot investigate as she resigned from the force. Let the curiosity begin.
I really enjoyed reading and following Elise Liddell in her change of life mystery. She is worn out from her job and the death of her partner so what does she do now? She creates a new job as a private investigator and with help from her old colleagues and friends, new acquaintances, and following the clues solves the mystery of the death of Wizard Dodo. Looking forward to the next adventure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really enjoyed reading and following Elise Liddell in her change of life mystery. She is worn out from her job and the death of her partner so what does she do now? She creates a new job as a private investigator and with help from her old colleagues and friends, new acquaintances, and following the clues solves the mystery of the death of Wizard Dodo. Looking forward to the next adventure.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 12, 2021
Our heroine is looking for a fresh start with her own detective agency, but when her first case turns into a murder case, it becomes clear that not much has really changed.
This is book one in the series, so a good place to start.
I have loved the author's Wonky Inn series and this new series has the same vibe. I love the paranormal detective agency as it give us an opportunity to explore strange cases and even stranger characters. The book couples a mystery with a great sense of humor along with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. The overall experience is one of delighted fascination, making for an excellent weekend entertainment. Overall, a great start to a series and I am definitely looking forward to more.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
This is book one in the series, so a good place to start.
I have loved the author's Wonky Inn series and this new series has the same vibe. I love the paranormal detective agency as it give us an opportunity to explore strange cases and even stranger characters. The book couples a mystery with a great sense of humor along with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader guessing. The overall experience is one of delighted fascination, making for an excellent weekend entertainment. Overall, a great start to a series and I am definitely looking forward to more.
Highly recommended.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout for review purposes.
August 18, 2025
Dead as a Dodo is a fantastic introduction to the Wonderland Detective Agency series. Jeannie Wycherley masterfully sets the stage with a quirky cast of characters and a charming protagonist who’s just beginning her journey into the world of private investigation. The story is rich with cozy mystery vibes, clever twists, and a touch of whimsy that makes it truly stand out.
Joanna Lee’s narration brings the characters to life with warmth and personality, perfectly capturing the tone of the story and enhancing the listening experience. I’m excited to see how the series unfolds and which familiar faces will return in future installments.
If you love cozy mysteries with a unique flair and engaging storytelling, this is a must-listen.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Joanna Lee’s narration brings the characters to life with warmth and personality, perfectly capturing the tone of the story and enhancing the listening experience. I’m excited to see how the series unfolds and which familiar faces will return in future installments.
If you love cozy mysteries with a unique flair and engaging storytelling, this is a must-listen.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
April 30, 2021
Elisa has turned in her badge since the death of her partner. She realizes that she can't do the job again. Elisa decides to go to a bar in Tumble Town, she is approached by a man that seems to know her. She is still there, when he comes back. He asks Elise to go with him, she knows what that means.
Elisa finds a man dead, she can't help but become curious over his death. Elisa decides that she will look into the death, to see if she could figure it out. Elisa make some discoveries about her job prospect and more
This was an interesting introduction to this new series and characters. I really enjoyed reading this book. I am looking forward to more books featuring Elise and her adventures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elisa finds a man dead, she can't help but become curious over his death. Elisa decides that she will look into the death, to see if she could figure it out. Elisa make some discoveries about her job prospect and more
This was an interesting introduction to this new series and characters. I really enjoyed reading this book. I am looking forward to more books featuring Elise and her adventures.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 13, 2021
"A Funny, Exciting, and Wacky Paranormal series"
You will love this funny and exciting story. The characters are awesome.
Elise used to work with the ministry of witches police Department. This was until her partner Ezra was killed. When she gets caught up in a murder case. It puts the spark back into her life. So she decided to be a private detective. She plans to open her own Paranormal private detective agency! Only the case puts Elise in danger. It does not scare her off. Elise is determined to solve this case no matter what. She also learned her partner is not fully gone. Can Elise solve the case with the help of some wacky characters. You will love this funny, exciting, and wacky paranormal series! This is a five star plus series!
You will love this funny and exciting story. The characters are awesome.
Elise used to work with the ministry of witches police Department. This was until her partner Ezra was killed. When she gets caught up in a murder case. It puts the spark back into her life. So she decided to be a private detective. She plans to open her own Paranormal private detective agency! Only the case puts Elise in danger. It does not scare her off. Elise is determined to solve this case no matter what. She also learned her partner is not fully gone. Can Elise solve the case with the help of some wacky characters. You will love this funny, exciting, and wacky paranormal series! This is a five star plus series!
September 27, 2021
This is a new author to me and although I understand that it is a spin off of another series, it is not necessary to read it to understand what is happening. Elise Liddell has retired from the MOWPD after the death of her mentor and partner. She gets brought into the mystery surrounding the death of Wizard Dodo while wallowing in her misery at a bar in Tumble Town. She finds her purpose as a PI while investigating his death. There is a quirky cast of characters that we are introduced to as she settles into Tumble Town. Since the death of Dodo remains a mystery at the end we can expect this plot to continue while Elise settles into her new role. I'm looking forward the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 30, 2021
Retired Detective Inspector Elise Liddel took an early retirement after the death of her partner, mentor and friend on s bizarre case, linked loosely to Alf, Sylvan and their Wonky Inn and other connections
What to do having left the police force is not immediately clear to Elise.
Working her way past her grief and all the right and wrong ways she sought to cope with her grief leaves Elise entangled with her s case she volunteers for, and various trusts forged and broken
Painful self discovery and moving on in s magical and mystical series of misadventures
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What to do having left the police force is not immediately clear to Elise.
Working her way past her grief and all the right and wrong ways she sought to cope with her grief leaves Elise entangled with her s case she volunteers for, and various trusts forged and broken
Painful self discovery and moving on in s magical and mystical series of misadventures
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 3, 2021
I was so excited when I learnt there was going to be a spin off to the Wonky Inn series and it having already met Elise in previous books so already knowing a bit about her was great! I liked getting to know Elise on a more personal level and seeing how she had been getting on after Ezra's death as well as learning more about Tumble Town. I loved seeing Elise find her new self while working on who killed Wizard Dodo, we get to meet new people, have a few laughs, a great mystery and new adventures to be had. I am looking forward to the next in the series as I am sure I will get addicted to this!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2021
Elise has retired from the Police force when her partner dies at Whittle Inn - and decides to set up her own private detective agency in Tumble Town. Her first case is a murder, and she finds that she has no idea of whom she can trust - it is possible that the police are involved. With the help of some unlikely friends, she sets out to solve Dodo's murder - but will she surviv the investiagtion? What secrets will she uncover? Loved this beginning to what I am sure will be an awesome series from a brilliant author! I love seeing familiar characters pop up from the past!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 6, 2025
Audiobook: I liked this story a lot. I felt for DS Elise Liddell who was depressed after the death of her partner. I applauded Elise's recognition of her new path, and her determination to work to achieve her new dreams. I enjoyed the cameo of the characters from the author's other series. I was entertained by the twists in the mystery. I am looking forward to the next book in the series. I thought Joanna Lee's narration was great, and her performance enhanced the story's entertainment. I was given a copy of the audiobook. I volunteered, without financial gain, to post this review which reflected my honest opinions regarding this audiobook.
August 3, 2025
Mysterious, whimsy, a hint of darkness, and crossover with another series I love—what more could a person ask for? This was absolutely brilliant—I am officially in love with this town and series.
I loved the broke, traumatized female lead who is forced to be resourceful and strong, with fresh murder cases thrust in her lap.
🦤 Mysterious.
🎩 Enterpreneur female lead.
🦤 Fresh start.
🎩 Small town.
🦤 Strong female lead.
🎩 Conspiracy.
🦤 Witches, magic.
🎩 Wonky cast appearances.
🦤 Ghosts.
4 stars—cannot wait to read on in this series.
🎧 Audio:
Fantastic production—flawless with excellent narration and voice-active. Lovely.
5 stars.
I loved the broke, traumatized female lead who is forced to be resourceful and strong, with fresh murder cases thrust in her lap.
🦤 Mysterious.
🎩 Enterpreneur female lead.
🦤 Fresh start.
🎩 Small town.
🦤 Strong female lead.
🎩 Conspiracy.
🦤 Witches, magic.
🎩 Wonky cast appearances.
🦤 Ghosts.
4 stars—cannot wait to read on in this series.
🎧 Audio:
Fantastic production—flawless with excellent narration and voice-active. Lovely.
5 stars.
April 22, 2021
A wonderful story. This is in the world of The Wonky Inn, in which you follow a former detective as she investigates the murder of Wizard Dodo. This story deviates from the fanatical and whimsy prose of The Wonky series, and puts a more realistic spin on the wizarding world in terms of being more serious. I thoroughly enjoyed this series. I love The Wonky Inn series, but it also very enjoyable to read almost a hard-boiled detective series set in a cozy fantasy setting. Definitely pick this one up. Jeannie is a fantastic writer, and I always look forward to reading whatever she has released.
May 4, 2021
Dead as a Dodo has Detective Lidell solving a murder in an undesirable area of town. The trouble that comes along with the murder should have made the Detective high tail it out of town to never return, but she resolved to bring the killer to justice. The characters seemsms to have layers that are begging to be revealed. The storyline was well written and I'm sure that this series will be a pleasure to read by all.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews