Murder at Work

Booker & Fitch Mysteries #5

by Liz Hedgecock, Paula Harmon

When murder comes with the job…

Halloween is approaching, and Jade is looking forward to bumper profits for Crystal Dreams – until another magic shop opens its doors. And the shop manager isn’t above stealing their ideas…

Jade’s furious, and sparks fly between her and her assistant Netta as they fight over the best way to keep Crystal Dreams afloat. But that pales into insignificance when the rival shop manager is found dead – and all the evidence points to Jade.

That isn’t Jade’s only problem. She’s been running away for years – but a chance photograph leads someone from her past straight to her.

Is Jade’s new life in Hazeby at risk? Can she prove her innocence? And will her friendship with Fi survive when her secrets are revealed?

Murder at Work is the fifth book in the Booker and Fitch cozy mystery series, set in and around the English market town of Hazeby-on-Wyvern.

251 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 30, 2024

About the author

I grew up in south London, did an English degree, and then took forever to start writing. The stories started to grow longer...and then the murders began!

I tend to write Victorian mysteries of a not-too-scary nature. I've somehow managed to have 3 separate Sherlock Holmes-themed series (why make things easy?). I also co-wrote the Caster & Fleet mystery series with Paula Harmon, and my Maisie Frobisher Mysteries series is a spinoff from that.

I write a modern cozy mystery series, Pippa Parker Mysteries, and my newest series, The Magical Bookshop, is a cozy mystery series with a touch of fantasy and magic.

Visit my website for book info, links to stories, and my blog, in which I ramble on about all sorts of things. Hope to see you soon.

Reviews

[Kristi | Hidden Staircase | · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always enjoy picking up a book from this series. The mysteries are always engaging, and the writing pulls you right in to the small village.

While this is a series that features growing character arcs, you can pick this one up for the mystery and dive in. This outing focuses on Jade and we get to learn more about her past.

Pick this up if you enjoy a cozy mystery set in a small village with two great amateur detectives on the case.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lise · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Hallowe'en around the corner, Jade Fitch has visions of a magical retail season at her little shop. That daydream is dashed when she learns a direct competitor, a chain no less, is moving into town. Harsh words are exchanged between Jade and the new store's manager and when the woman is found dead, Jade bears the brunt of the suspicions. Jade has made some good friends in Hazeby-on-Wyvern, but will they be enough to keep her from reverting to type and doing a runner?

This is the fifth book in the Booker & Fitch Mysteries series and I've been a dedicated fan since the first book for good reason. Murder at Work is a binge read - so good that it's impossible to put down until the last page.

Fabulous character development enables the reader to go beyond the veil and delve into Jade's previously obscured background. And, while this story revolves around Jade, Fi Booker is very much present and offers a more clarifying look at her world. The telling was a delicious balancing act among the main characters.

The mystery was gratifyingly twisty and the villain was indiscernible until the last. I'm loathed to say too much for fear of spoiling the wrap-up but trust me, it's satisfying!

Thank you to Liz Hedgecock, Paula Harmon, and Booksprout for the opportunity to review this eARC. My opinions are all my own, honest and true.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well written cozy murder mystery by an accomplished writer of cozys bringing you into lives of her, vibrant, colorful and courageous array of characters and though these characters draw you into this cozey mystery it's a diabolical plot full of intrigue, secrets,mayhem, betrayal and more that will entice you further down the rabbit hole not wanting to miss a single clue, suspect or bit of comic relief. If you're like myself once you start reading you will find yourself emerged so fully it what's happening in the world of Fi and Jade the two main characters that the world around you will fall away time passing by without notice until you've reached the unexpected and climatic conclusion .Acquire " Murder at Work " the fifth mystery in( Booker & Fitch Mysteries) for hours of clean, intriguing and enjoyable entertainment. Kat.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kevin Cannon (Monty's Book Reviews) · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Booker & Fitch series continues to go from strength to strength as Jade battles both a new rival shop in the high street and secrets from her past that begin to emerge when a man arrives in town to see her.

Great characters, engaging plot and a good balance between the case and the personal lives of those involved.

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fi and Jade are back for another murder to solve. I can usually figure out the murderer, but never when Fi and Jade are on a case. The story moves along at a great pace. I read the book in a day, because I just couldn’t put it down. It was great fun learning a bit more about Jade’s background. You can never go wrong with a Liz Hedgecock mystery. She’s one of the few authors, I immediately want to read when her new books come out. I am one of her biggest fans!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Avis Witter · Rating 5 out of 5]

A plot which leaves poor Jade under suspicion of murdering the manager of a rival shop which has popped up in the village. This book has all the gripping twists and gasps of surprise but with added interest for me this time as a surprise character gives the reader more insight into Jade’s unknown past. I loved the way her friends rallied round and showed the compassion that was needed (no spoilers folks, you need to read it and be amazed). We find out a little more about Fi’s past too.

There is the usual dollop of humour injected here and there. I roared with laughter at the description of the influencers.

This book can be read as a stand alone but it does help if you have read previous books to give you more of an idea of how the characters fit in and their interaction. Oh this is the best one yet readers. When they get together these two authors make a magical story. Thank you Liz Hedgecock and Paula Harmon a dynamic duo in story telling and thank you Booksprout for my ARC. Can I give it 10 stars please? It kept me entertained for hours and I’m so looking forward to the next in series. This is a totally honest opinion and I highly recommend you read the whole series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Merry Chapman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jade Fitch is all excited with so many ideas for her shop Crystal Dream, with Halloween coming. But a competing shop has opened and stealing her ideas. So when the manager of this new rival shop is found dead in Jade's backyard things start to go south. Her best friend Fi Booker who owns the shop next to Jade convinces her to investigate. What is happening? Who wanted the woman dead and why? This book is filled with so many twists and turns and when a man from Jade's past which she was running from shows up, we have some new problems. Jade was so happy in her new town and her store and her best friend, but is she going to have to run again? What will happen when her past catches up with her? So not only do we have a murder she has to solve so her name is cleared, but what about this man who showed up on Jade's doorstep? This is a fantastic addition to the series and not only to I recommend this book, I whole heartedly recommend this entire series. I received an ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Christmas fast approaching Jade Fitch is looking forward to fat profits at Crystal Dreams. Then there’s the new magic shop where the manager is pinching all of Jade’s ideas. The nerve of the man! Her and Netgalley are even at loggerheads but that pales into insignificance when the man turns up dead! Jades in the frame in more ways than one because as it happens she’s already on the run from her past but that one photograph leading someone from her past straight to her. Friend or foe she doesn’t know but she knows that she’s no killer accuse of a crime she needs to be found innocent of . Her friendship with Fi Booker ? Now there begs a question That will be revealed… brilliant storytelling , so good. The writing is quality and always a pleasure to delve through the pages and immerse in mystery . Heaven!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Barbara Hackel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jade and Fi, a pair of friends who each own their own business, have had many experiences with unsavory criminals. However in this book, when a body turns up in the rubbish bin in Jade's back yard, so many circumstances make this seem like there will be no hope for justice. Fortunately, the investigation is not focused on Jade, and she and Fi are compelled to investigate anyway. The results are filled with emotions, surprises, and learning a whole lot more about Jade.
Aside from the excellent mystery and characters, the author has created characters that are consistently interesting and full of unexpected ideas that make it delightful to read. I enjoy learning about differences between British and American ways in schools, policies, daily living, and especially foods. All are by-products of a well written story sure to appeal to many readers. A bonus is the unexpected solution and method used to solve the mystery. Superb book!

[Irene Sauman · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best in series to date
I thoroughly enjoyed this latest title in the Booker and Fitch series. A chainstore selling magical items opens up in Hazeby-on-Wyvern in direct competiton to Jade’s Crystal Dreams. So when the body of the new store’s manager is found in her rubbish bin she fears she’s the main suspect. Already struggling with Netta’s plans for expanding their online presence Jade is overwhelmed. Fi tries to help, but her detective boyfriend is keeping at arms’ length from the investigation, and Jade sinks further into the doldrums. Thank goodness for her friends to pull her back from a crisis and restore her to some form of sanity. Finally, using all their resources, the killer of the store manager does eventually get identified.
I received an ARC from Booksprout and this is my honest review. Recommend.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jade is looking forward to Halloween season with its uptick in sales at Crystal Dreams. But a tacky chain magic store is opening in Hazeby and the manager tries to intimidate Jade. Outwardly Jade stands her ground but inwardly her doubts make her want to run yet again in her life. Fi is concerned Jade won’t confide in her but Dylan, her teen, has growing pains, and Marcus is in London ‘assisting’ the Met in his own case! When the obnoxious manager is found dead in Jade’s bin, DI Nina Acaster, not a fan of snoopy amateurs, is assigned the case. Jade can’t run now and descends into an endless swirl of self-blaming thoughts But when her past catches up with her, she won’t confide even in Fi. Will Jade an Fi find the killer? More importantly, will Jade again cut and run from her past.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just when Jade thought that finally things were coming together - business was picking up, life was good - when they were not! A competitor store opens in town, and part of a large chain as well, which will certainly take away most of the business that Jade has carefully built up as they would be able to offer good discounts and under cut her. Totally bad news, followed by even worse news when the manager is found dead in Jade's bin, with one of Jade's scarves tied around her mouth!

I did enjoy this book, even more so as more of Jade's story is being revealed. Wonder where the next adventure will take this pair of close friends?! Certainly looking forward to that.

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh, dear. The last thing Jade needs is a chain store moving in which specializes in "Magical Moments". Everyone assures her that her shop is unique and gives customer service, but she's worried. The manager even comes in to gloat - and is found dead the next morning in the trash bin. I can't go on without spoiling this wonderful story, so I'll just say that the characters are developing all the time and there are a number of surprises for the reader regarding the people and plot. You won't want to put this down with all that's happening in these pages! I received an advance copy and freely leave this honest review.

[Audrey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. I love this series! Liz Hedgecock is an amazing author. I like to see Jade finally have a healthy relationship and stop running. This was one mystery I didn’t solve until the very end! I love all the characters. They r all different, unique and charming. This author really brings her characters to life! I can picture exactly what they look like and will do. They r all like old friends. This book had an original plot, lots of action ,drama and mystery. I highly recommend this book and this series!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kate Kern · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fi and Jade are back for another murder to solve. I can usually figure out the murderer, but never when Fi and Jade are on a case. The story moves along at a great pace. I read the book in a day, because I just couldn’t put it down. It was great fun learning a bit more about Jade’s background. You can never go wrong with a Liz Hedgecock mystery. She’s one of the few authors, I immediately want to read when her new books come out. I am one of her biggest fans!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CJ Earls · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the fifth novel in the Booker & Fitch series, and the first that I have read. I will admit that I found the first couple of chapters confusing, as if I had been dropped in the middle of a situation with no background. However, the well written characters pulled me into the story and by the end of the novel I was totally invested in Jade’s success at her shop and overcoming her chaotic past. This novel has an engaging plot and well developed characters. I plan to go back and read the series from book 1.

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

So much fun!! This book has a great story and wonderful characters!!! It's Halloween and Jade is looking forward to some profits for her shop. But another store is moving in next door... Jada and her assistant fight a lot when it comes to keeping Crystal Dreams afloat. But Jade has bigger problems!! Her rival is found dead and she is suspect!! you will want to read this marvelous story. I highly recommend it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lonnia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a is a story about true friendships. Crystal Dreams is a quaint, charming store. The owner, Jade, stepped out of her comfort zone and opened the business she has dreamed of. Her best friend, Fi, owns a bookstore on a boat. A chain store opens up and Jade gets concerned they will put her out of business. She has a confrontation with Linzi, the manager of the store. Then days later, Linzi is found dead in Jade's dumpster. Why and who did this to frame Jade. Follow Jade and Fi as they work to solve the murder and stay out of the police's way

[Valerie Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Booksprout and the author for an ARC of this book. I have chosen to write this honest review voluntarily and it reflects my personal opinion.
The characters of Fi and Jade are set out very clearly in the preceding books but this book reveals a great deal more about their histories which have shaped each of them. Alongside the mysterious murder the book includes developments in their relationships, making an interesting, rounded story.

[Sherri Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book I’ve read in this series and it only took a few pages to get hooked on the story. Jade and Fi are besties who can’t resist solving mysteries. I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this captivating whodunnit! Quite a page-turner of a mystery that really kept me guessing! Sign me up for more of Jade and Fi’s adventures! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sharmani Jayaram · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jade Fitch of Crystal Dreams shop was surprised to meet Linzi Lawson the owner of new shop Magical Moments. But then Jade and Netta have to deal with the dead body of Linzi found in the bin in the shop backyard . Fi  and Jade have their hands full trying to find clues to the real killer. There is a lot of mayhem, twist and turns to make this an intriguing read. I received this ARC copy and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.

[Lavender Jade · Rating 5 out of 5]

An intelligently written mystery that kept me up way, way past my bedtime. I loved the characters (especially Jade and Rick), the fast-paced story, and the surprising revelations. An entertaining read that I gladly recommend!

A review copy of this book was sent to me by the author. All of the above opinions are my own.

[Suzanne H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series! I was elated when I found out there was another installment of Fi and Jade. It is perfect in every way and I recommend this book 100%. The characters continued to develop, the conversations were witty and true to life, and the mystery had a plausible conclusion. I can’t wait for the next one!

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Interesting characters to follow along as they try to decipher the clues and find out who done it. Lots of twists and turns with plenty of drama thrown in. Keeps you guessing until the end.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Molly · Rating 4 out of 5]

when a fight to corner the market on mystical related supplies turns lethal, a store owner finds herself fighting for her own livelihood in the aftermath

tense and tangled

[Nicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

great

Still great, love reading about how booker and fitch’s life’s are going on top of solving a mystery murder. Keeps you on your toes

[lynne · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was sent to me as a free copy so I could leave an honest review

Very interesting plot to this story , loved the ending. Definitely one to add to your to read list .