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The Most Unusual Mysteries #2
A Most Malicious Messenger
Menacing texts lead to murder in an English village, in this unmissable, witty mystery by the Dagger Award–nominated author of A Most Unusual Demise.
May Morrigan is in her bookshop one morning when she—and everyone else in the shop—receives an anonymous text. It contains a reference to a Shakespeare quotation—and seems to be aimed at the vicar and his partner, Juan. The next morning, one of them is dead.
Meanwhile, May’s elderly mother, Minty, is staying with her, her old friend Fletcher, and her two dogs. To her dismay, Minty is quite preoccupied with death herself lately. She also keeps reminiscing about her past in ways that make May wonder what secrets she’s hiding.
As disturbing texts continue to arrive, the Blackheath residents are threatened with further revelations and titillations. Then Fletcher becomes the focus of the tormenting texter . . . and barely escapes an attempt on his life. It’s time for May to send a strong message—and block this killer permanently . . .
May Morrigan is in her bookshop one morning when she—and everyone else in the shop—receives an anonymous text. It contains a reference to a Shakespeare quotation—and seems to be aimed at the vicar and his partner, Juan. The next morning, one of them is dead.
Meanwhile, May’s elderly mother, Minty, is staying with her, her old friend Fletcher, and her two dogs. To her dismay, Minty is quite preoccupied with death herself lately. She also keeps reminiscing about her past in ways that make May wonder what secrets she’s hiding.
As disturbing texts continue to arrive, the Blackheath residents are threatened with further revelations and titillations. Then Fletcher becomes the focus of the tormenting texter . . . and barely escapes an attempt on his life. It’s time for May to send a strong message—and block this killer permanently . . .
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 5, 2024
125 people are currently reading
171 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
December 5, 2024
This is the second book in The Most Unusual Mysteries series and having read book 1 - A Most Unusual Demise last year - and loving it!! - I was so excited to see book 2 being released.
It was great to be back in Blackheath and Greenway with the gang and it was so easy to slip right back into village life with them all.
After the previous events, I knew that we were going to be in for another wild ride with May and Fletcher and I was so not disappointed!
After a nice little recap and introduction to some new characters, the mystery messenger strikes and one of the residents is murdered......and so the shenanigans begin.
I just love everything about this series!
The characters just jump right off the page and although not without their flaws, they are so lovable and even, dare I say, relatable!
May and Fletcher have such a great relationship which we see developing more through this book.
The addition of Sparks and Minty add a refreshing new dynamic too!
The mystery and murders can get quite dark, but there is so much humour within the writing and some great banter between the characters that it never feels too heavy!
Another brilliant read and once again, I'm left excited to see what's to follow for the residents of Blackheath in the next book.....
PS - George and Bess star once again and are still super cute!!!
It was great to be back in Blackheath and Greenway with the gang and it was so easy to slip right back into village life with them all.
After the previous events, I knew that we were going to be in for another wild ride with May and Fletcher and I was so not disappointed!
After a nice little recap and introduction to some new characters, the mystery messenger strikes and one of the residents is murdered......and so the shenanigans begin.
I just love everything about this series!
The characters just jump right off the page and although not without their flaws, they are so lovable and even, dare I say, relatable!
May and Fletcher have such a great relationship which we see developing more through this book.
The addition of Sparks and Minty add a refreshing new dynamic too!
The mystery and murders can get quite dark, but there is so much humour within the writing and some great banter between the characters that it never feels too heavy!
Another brilliant read and once again, I'm left excited to see what's to follow for the residents of Blackheath in the next book.....
PS - George and Bess star once again and are still super cute!!!
November 25, 2024
This is the 2nd book in the serie. The book is quite interesting and engaging. But I expected more of this book.
November 30, 2024
Another great cosy crime story with the lovable May and Fletcher. This time, May's mother Minty is along for the ride. The characters are fabulous and I can't get enough of them! They are outrageous, hilarious, and have a sharp wit that would cut you to the core!
The author is able to highlight all the British quirks of village life superbly. I was amazed to find out the author was initially born and raised in Texas. Her life in the UK has definitely been well observed as she is able to reference our dry humour and disdain so easily!
This is the second book in the series, and this time, May and Fletcher are on the trail of a killer who is sending malicious text messages hinting at who is next on the list of victims. May and Fletcher need to figure this one out quickly before they make it on the killer's list.
I listened to the audio book, and Jonathan Keeble does such a wonderful job. He pitches the sharp wit just right and captures the essence of each character. It is a truly delightful listen.
The only complaint I have is that the story ended, and now I have to patiently wait for the next instalment. I am absolutely hooked and can't wait to see what the gang gets up to next!
With thanks to the author, publisher, Netgalley, Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the audiobook. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
The author is able to highlight all the British quirks of village life superbly. I was amazed to find out the author was initially born and raised in Texas. Her life in the UK has definitely been well observed as she is able to reference our dry humour and disdain so easily!
This is the second book in the series, and this time, May and Fletcher are on the trail of a killer who is sending malicious text messages hinting at who is next on the list of victims. May and Fletcher need to figure this one out quickly before they make it on the killer's list.
I listened to the audio book, and Jonathan Keeble does such a wonderful job. He pitches the sharp wit just right and captures the essence of each character. It is a truly delightful listen.
The only complaint I have is that the story ended, and now I have to patiently wait for the next instalment. I am absolutely hooked and can't wait to see what the gang gets up to next!
With thanks to the author, publisher, Netgalley, Love Books Tours for providing a copy of the audiobook. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
November 5, 2024
4.3⭐️
May and Fletcher team up to catch
the murderer who’s sending malicious texts
✨ Read if you enjoy: hilarious seniors, saucy shenanigans, book 1 in the series
✨ Don’t read if you loathe: cozy mysteries, smut
I fell in love with May, Fletcher and the other Londoners in book 1 - if you haven’t read it, I encourage doing so before reading this. It’s easy to follow, but probably more enjoyable with the book 1 backstory
This time, someone is sending nasty texts about the Blackheath villagers and people are getting hurt
As May and Fletcher investigate, they also find themselves involved with their own dramas - May’s 94 y/o mother has returned in the hope May will kill her and Fletcher is about to be outed
I found it took a little while to get going, but once it did it was non stop lols… the emoji conversation was hilarious, though I died when Minty woke May up without her teeth in - I implore you to listen to the audiobook - the narrator is superb and I nearly wet myself a couple of times!
These seniors may appear Agatha Christie-esque, but their saucy, smutty shenanigans are a modern delight
Thanks to Netgalley and Bloodhound Books Audio for access to this audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review
May and Fletcher team up to catch
the murderer who’s sending malicious texts
✨ Read if you enjoy: hilarious seniors, saucy shenanigans, book 1 in the series
✨ Don’t read if you loathe: cozy mysteries, smut
I fell in love with May, Fletcher and the other Londoners in book 1 - if you haven’t read it, I encourage doing so before reading this. It’s easy to follow, but probably more enjoyable with the book 1 backstory
This time, someone is sending nasty texts about the Blackheath villagers and people are getting hurt
As May and Fletcher investigate, they also find themselves involved with their own dramas - May’s 94 y/o mother has returned in the hope May will kill her and Fletcher is about to be outed
I found it took a little while to get going, but once it did it was non stop lols… the emoji conversation was hilarious, though I died when Minty woke May up without her teeth in - I implore you to listen to the audiobook - the narrator is superb and I nearly wet myself a couple of times!
These seniors may appear Agatha Christie-esque, but their saucy, smutty shenanigans are a modern delight
Thanks to Netgalley and Bloodhound Books Audio for access to this audiobook ARC in exchange for my honest review
December 28, 2023
A cosy, light hearted and witty murder mystery. One things for sure, don't mess with May's dogs.
'You can threaten to kill me....- but you leave my dogs the f*ck alone'.
Starting their morning, they thought it would be like any other day - until everyone starts to receive a cryptic text message. The next morning, someone is dead. As this cycle continues each morning at 10am, they wonder who in the village could be next. We follow May and Fletcher as they try to uncover who is behind these messages and the village murders.
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
I do love a cosy murder mystery and I thoroughly enjoyed this read! The humour was witty and made me laugh, alongside the friendships of those within the village - especially May, Fletcher and of course, Minty. Minty made me laugh so many times!
This is a fun, lighthearted cosy crime, and I loved playing detective alongside May in discovering who the culprit was - I did not guess in the slightest! And what a twist that was!
I've not read 'The Most Unusual Demise' by Katherine, where May and Fletcher are first introduced, but I'm definitely going back to read that one with how enjoyable this was!
Thank you to Love Book Tours for this copy. This review is voluntary.
'You can threaten to kill me....- but you leave my dogs the f*ck alone'.
Starting their morning, they thought it would be like any other day - until everyone starts to receive a cryptic text message. The next morning, someone is dead. As this cycle continues each morning at 10am, they wonder who in the village could be next. We follow May and Fletcher as they try to uncover who is behind these messages and the village murders.
𝗧𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀
I do love a cosy murder mystery and I thoroughly enjoyed this read! The humour was witty and made me laugh, alongside the friendships of those within the village - especially May, Fletcher and of course, Minty. Minty made me laugh so many times!
This is a fun, lighthearted cosy crime, and I loved playing detective alongside May in discovering who the culprit was - I did not guess in the slightest! And what a twist that was!
I've not read 'The Most Unusual Demise' by Katherine, where May and Fletcher are first introduced, but I'm definitely going back to read that one with how enjoyable this was!
Thank you to Love Book Tours for this copy. This review is voluntary.
January 11, 2024
This is the perfect cozy mystery! Of course we get the mystery part of it, but this one had SO much humor in it that I found myself laughing out loud a LOT. There was one or two complete chapters that I just couldn’t stop laughing. This author did a great job of mixing the funny with the mystery.
Then there’s the mystery. I loved being along for the ride with every message that came in. I was right along side May in trying to figure it out. I didn’t know who was going be the target of the messages, what was going to happen to that person, nor could I figure out who was behind the messages. And when it was revealed! Ohh!! You have to read it to find out, but I’m sure glad that I’ve never eaten minced pies.
This book is really perfect for anyone who loves a good cozy mystery. Oh, and the dogs in the book were great supporting actors.
Then there’s the mystery. I loved being along for the ride with every message that came in. I was right along side May in trying to figure it out. I didn’t know who was going be the target of the messages, what was going to happen to that person, nor could I figure out who was behind the messages. And when it was revealed! Ohh!! You have to read it to find out, but I’m sure glad that I’ve never eaten minced pies.
This book is really perfect for anyone who loves a good cozy mystery. Oh, and the dogs in the book were great supporting actors.
January 15, 2024
I haven’t read the first book in this series and so wasn’t sure what to expect from this one. It holds up well as a standalone and I found it easy to follow the story and characters without having any feeling of ‘missing out’ with not having read book one.
It’s a cosy murder mystery which isn’t usually my cup of tea but it’s always interesting to try something different. It probably hasn’t intrigued me into wanting to read more of this genre, I prefer the darker crime and thriller styles, but I would recommend to anyone who is a fan as I can see exactly why this would be loved by them.
The authors writing style is easy to read, the chapters are short. The murders were interesting, as was the final climax in the book.
Not one I’d pick up again but would definitely recommend to fans of the cosy murder mystery genre!
It’s a cosy murder mystery which isn’t usually my cup of tea but it’s always interesting to try something different. It probably hasn’t intrigued me into wanting to read more of this genre, I prefer the darker crime and thriller styles, but I would recommend to anyone who is a fan as I can see exactly why this would be loved by them.
The authors writing style is easy to read, the chapters are short. The murders were interesting, as was the final climax in the book.
Not one I’d pick up again but would definitely recommend to fans of the cosy murder mystery genre!
December 29, 2023
I really love the most unusual series of books by Katherine Black, she writes such vivid and captivating main characters. I feel like I am living in Blackheath and I know all these people. I think Fletcher is my favourite character in this book as he finally seems to be settling into his own skin a bit more. Minty is hilarious and she leaves me wanting a spin off novel about her past lol. I really enjoyed this novel, the story was entertaining and intriguing and it is really well written and enjoyable. I can’t wait to see what happens next to these characters.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
I received a gifted copy of this novel. This review is my honest opinion and written voluntarily.
December 29, 2023
This was a wonderful read that kept me guessing all the way through. Though with the reveal, I did feel rather unwell - it's a good job that I don't like Mince Pies!
Some real humour throughout, I love the relationship between May and Fletcher, and the time in the caves had me giggling away. My husband kept looking over at me, asking what was so funny!
We got the answer to some questions that book 1 had lead to, and there were new beginnings for many of the characters.
As with the first book, I read this in a couple of sittings. It's so well paced!
A really enjoyable series, and I hope there's more to come!
Some real humour throughout, I love the relationship between May and Fletcher, and the time in the caves had me giggling away. My husband kept looking over at me, asking what was so funny!
We got the answer to some questions that book 1 had lead to, and there were new beginnings for many of the characters.
As with the first book, I read this in a couple of sittings. It's so well paced!
A really enjoyable series, and I hope there's more to come!
December 19, 2023
What a delight to be back in May's company with her best friend Fletcher and her Mother Minty. Whilst in her book shop, everyone received a poison text message this leads May on a path of discovering who the mysterious texter. There are a few moments of hilarity that I burst out laughing and spilled some of my drink!! What a story! It was well written and so descriptive that I could see the characters and locations in my mind. I read this in one day as it was unputdownable. I recommend that you pick up a copy to read.
January 3, 2024
I was sad to see that Fletcher made the decision he made. Though I understand why after all the went on, I was still sad. Who would have thought that someone would be so bold as to start killing people for something that really isn't in their control? I have enjoyed this series very much. I am voluntarily leaving a review on this book.
December 17, 2023
I loved the first book in this series, and this one does not disappoint.
May and Fletch are such a fabulous double act, and the introduction of Minty adds an extra layer of interest . She's a feisty one.
The plot moves along at a good pace, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep it interesting.
A great book which I would highly recommend.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
May and Fletch are such a fabulous double act, and the introduction of Minty adds an extra layer of interest . She's a feisty one.
The plot moves along at a good pace, and there are plenty of twists and turns to keep it interesting.
A great book which I would highly recommend.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review.
December 20, 2023
I hadn’t read the first book but that didn’t matter as the characters all were explained and I felt like I got to know them all. I really enjoyed the book but was amazed how much murder they seemed to get away with! Will definitely read more by this author.
October 10, 2025
This was a fun listen, and the narrator was a delight (as in the first book). There were a few elements that made me scratch my head a bit, as they seemed extraneous or out of place, but ultimately I didn’t really care because it was an enjoyable time and the characters were so much fun to spend time with. I’ll definitely continue with this series when the next one is released
December 26, 2023
I really enjoyed the first book and this was also terrific. May and Fletch are two great characters, irreverant, quirky and fun, and that makes me want to keep reading.
The story involving lots of malicious text messages followed by a few murders , is full of twists and will ensure you won't want to put it down. If you haven't read the first book, what are you waiting for If you have, you'll be waiting like me already for the next one to follow.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest revoew.
The story involving lots of malicious text messages followed by a few murders , is full of twists and will ensure you won't want to put it down. If you haven't read the first book, what are you waiting for If you have, you'll be waiting like me already for the next one to follow.
My thanks to Bloodhound Books for a copy of this and this is my honest revoew.
January 4, 2024
This is the second book in the series featuring May and Fletcher and their lives in Blackheath. I think it could also be enjoyed as a stand alone.
Threatening cryptic text messages, murder, missing dogs and interesting way of making mince pies and good dose of humor makes this book a fantastic cosy crime read.
I thoroughly enjoyed and Ann looking forward to the next installment.
Threatening cryptic text messages, murder, missing dogs and interesting way of making mince pies and good dose of humor makes this book a fantastic cosy crime read.
I thoroughly enjoyed and Ann looking forward to the next installment.
December 29, 2023
4 1/2 stars 🌟
February 3, 2024
What a fantastic follow up to Kathy's debut! Hilariously funny, brutally vicious in parts, SO exciting, confounding and gripping - I can't believe she knocked this out of the park in just 4 months! May is back with trusty Fletcher, lusty Bastian and rusty Minty, trying to decipher the meanings and the murders behind Shakespearean-based messages received by attendees of the bookshop. Mysteries and mayhem abound and the shocking truth might just unman you as thoroughly as it does Fletcher! Absolutely brilliant, and I'm now SO excited to have a Christmas outing with May to look forward to!
January 9, 2024
I read book one and very much enjoyed it, this one book two I absolutely loved. I never thought I'd laugh at murder but this is so funny and amusing in parts.
It's one of those books you pick up and are captivated from beginning to end
It has a very unique, well written storyline and plot with good strong characters with revelations and unexpected twists.
This kept me guessing all the way through, untill near the end. I got it right, but not the why's or wherefores.
I would definitely recommend this book and do hope there is more with these likeable characters .
My thanks to Bloodhound books for the advanced copy of this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
It's one of those books you pick up and are captivated from beginning to end
It has a very unique, well written storyline and plot with good strong characters with revelations and unexpected twists.
This kept me guessing all the way through, untill near the end. I got it right, but not the why's or wherefores.
I would definitely recommend this book and do hope there is more with these likeable characters .
My thanks to Bloodhound books for the advanced copy of this book.
This is my honest and unbiased review.
January 17, 2024
I read the first in this series and couldn't put it down so couldn't wait to read this one. Well done Katherine it was even better, love the characters and really enjoy reading what they get up to. Can't wait for the next one.
January 12, 2024
Who really wants perfect when you can just have fun?
Many, many years ago, I accompanied my family on a summer holiday to Malta. And, after a couple of days of lazing and pottering about between the pool, the beach and the bar, someone’s thoughts turned to exploring the island. To do this, we needed a car. I can’t remember what choice of vehicles was available at the rental outlet we visited, but that didn’t matter. As far as we were concerned, it was a choice of one: an open-topped jeep.
But here’s the thing. Had any one of us been looking to buy, or even hire a car back at home, we wouldn’t even for a nanosecond thought of getting this. Because, judged rationally as a car, it was pretty hopeless. From what I remember, and quite apart from the absence of a roof, it was noisy, uncomfortable and almost amusingly slow, despite drinking quite a lot of petrol. But there, that week and in that weather, nothing else would do.
The reason, I think, is that holidays are a time when we can, and should let our hearts over-rule our heads. For one or two weeks only it’s OK to forget about mundane details like comfort, practicality, economy, reliability and safety and focus instead on fun, fun, fun, fun and fun. And so it was as we took it in turns to drive all over Malta, with the car’s lack of performance giving the driver the perfect excuse to thrash the nuts off it without ever actually getting into danger. Meanwhile, the wind in the passengers’ hair gave the sensation of travelling much faster than they actually were. Best of all though were the couple of occasions when I managed to escape everyone else, go for a solo drive at sunset and feel like Ken in search of Barbie.
I was reminded of this after finishing A Most Malicious Messenger, not because I murdered anyone at the holiday resort. And nor because it’s a bad book – I hasten to say that it isn’t. But because, judged rationally as a piece of crime fiction, it is … let’s be kind and say flawed. And probably the biggest flaw is that none of it seemed to make any sense. I could see no fathomable reason – either whilst reading the book or after finishing it – as to why anyone planning to commit a murder would choose to announce it by cryptic text message to all of the customers in the local bookshop. Or why the texts needed to include references to Shakespeare quotations. Or why parts of the story included ventures into crypts full of skeletons and linked to secret underground passages – it felt a bit like Famous Five careers horribly into The Nightmare Before Christmas. And if you’re expecting me to say that the solution gives answers to any of these points, well forget it. It’s not one that offers Agatha Christie levels of ingenuity, that’s for sure.
And yet … I didn’t care. Because this book … reading it feels a little bit like thrashing a rented jeep around Malta on a summer holiday. It’s not necessarily sensible but, man, it’s fun.
May Morrigan and her friend Fletcher are two fabulous creations. Witty, clever, ballsy and yet with just the right amount of vulnerability and quirkiness to make them human and endearing. And it’s because they’re endearing that I was happy just to make a cup of tea and continue reading, cheering them both on as they tried to solve the clues in front of them. Then there’s May’s mother Minty, who on the face of it doesn’t seem likeable, but as the book went on I found myself warming to her too. And I have to say that I really loved the ending, which is both gruesome and bonkers and somehow all the more hilarious for that.
Best of all though is the dialogue. There are two lines in particular, neither of which would be published on Amazon if I repeated them here but both of which had me laughing out loud to the point where I had to put the book down and compose myself.
Contrary to the publisher, Bloodhound Books’ description, I’m not sure I agree that this book is “cosy crime”. It’s better than that. It’s comedy crime and whether you’re on holiday and need something to enjoy, or you’ve had a tough day and need to lighten your mood, I strongly advise you to give it a try.
My thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for the gifted digital copy of the book, and to Love Books Tours for my inclusion on the blog tour. I have reviewed the book voluntarily and honestly, and will post my review on Amazon, my blog at www.mycosybooknook.wordpress.com and my social media pages.
Many, many years ago, I accompanied my family on a summer holiday to Malta. And, after a couple of days of lazing and pottering about between the pool, the beach and the bar, someone’s thoughts turned to exploring the island. To do this, we needed a car. I can’t remember what choice of vehicles was available at the rental outlet we visited, but that didn’t matter. As far as we were concerned, it was a choice of one: an open-topped jeep.
But here’s the thing. Had any one of us been looking to buy, or even hire a car back at home, we wouldn’t even for a nanosecond thought of getting this. Because, judged rationally as a car, it was pretty hopeless. From what I remember, and quite apart from the absence of a roof, it was noisy, uncomfortable and almost amusingly slow, despite drinking quite a lot of petrol. But there, that week and in that weather, nothing else would do.
The reason, I think, is that holidays are a time when we can, and should let our hearts over-rule our heads. For one or two weeks only it’s OK to forget about mundane details like comfort, practicality, economy, reliability and safety and focus instead on fun, fun, fun, fun and fun. And so it was as we took it in turns to drive all over Malta, with the car’s lack of performance giving the driver the perfect excuse to thrash the nuts off it without ever actually getting into danger. Meanwhile, the wind in the passengers’ hair gave the sensation of travelling much faster than they actually were. Best of all though were the couple of occasions when I managed to escape everyone else, go for a solo drive at sunset and feel like Ken in search of Barbie.
I was reminded of this after finishing A Most Malicious Messenger, not because I murdered anyone at the holiday resort. And nor because it’s a bad book – I hasten to say that it isn’t. But because, judged rationally as a piece of crime fiction, it is … let’s be kind and say flawed. And probably the biggest flaw is that none of it seemed to make any sense. I could see no fathomable reason – either whilst reading the book or after finishing it – as to why anyone planning to commit a murder would choose to announce it by cryptic text message to all of the customers in the local bookshop. Or why the texts needed to include references to Shakespeare quotations. Or why parts of the story included ventures into crypts full of skeletons and linked to secret underground passages – it felt a bit like Famous Five careers horribly into The Nightmare Before Christmas. And if you’re expecting me to say that the solution gives answers to any of these points, well forget it. It’s not one that offers Agatha Christie levels of ingenuity, that’s for sure.
And yet … I didn’t care. Because this book … reading it feels a little bit like thrashing a rented jeep around Malta on a summer holiday. It’s not necessarily sensible but, man, it’s fun.
May Morrigan and her friend Fletcher are two fabulous creations. Witty, clever, ballsy and yet with just the right amount of vulnerability and quirkiness to make them human and endearing. And it’s because they’re endearing that I was happy just to make a cup of tea and continue reading, cheering them both on as they tried to solve the clues in front of them. Then there’s May’s mother Minty, who on the face of it doesn’t seem likeable, but as the book went on I found myself warming to her too. And I have to say that I really loved the ending, which is both gruesome and bonkers and somehow all the more hilarious for that.
Best of all though is the dialogue. There are two lines in particular, neither of which would be published on Amazon if I repeated them here but both of which had me laughing out loud to the point where I had to put the book down and compose myself.
Contrary to the publisher, Bloodhound Books’ description, I’m not sure I agree that this book is “cosy crime”. It’s better than that. It’s comedy crime and whether you’re on holiday and need something to enjoy, or you’ve had a tough day and need to lighten your mood, I strongly advise you to give it a try.
My thanks to the author and Bloodhound Books for the gifted digital copy of the book, and to Love Books Tours for my inclusion on the blog tour. I have reviewed the book voluntarily and honestly, and will post my review on Amazon, my blog at www.mycosybooknook.wordpress.com and my social media pages.
January 18, 2024
Katherine Black's "The Most Unusual Mysteries" #cozymystery series proves the adage "don't judge a book by its cover better than any book I've yet to encounter. The adorable dachshunds on the front made me think it would be the coziest of cozies I'd ever read.
This is such an interesting take on the cozy crime genre. It definitely harkens back to an earlier day of cozy crime, when it was edgier and took bigger chances. Cozies are frequently sanitized and clean, like murder is very much beside the point. This book is absolutely a #murderbook - no doubt about it.
As a lover of #cozymysteries - the cozier the better - you'd think that means I didn't enjoy the book, but you would be wrong. I frequently enjoy when a writer takes something I love and subverts it, turning it on its head. As long as they do it well. Ms. Katherine Black has broken the "rules" of modern-day cozies like a true artist.
Though, maybe she has really stuck with the rules. May, our unlikely sleuth, is a retired librarian, even if she has a few secrets. Her dependable sidekick and cast of zany, small-town characters are super loveable, if not a lot more edgy than most. And Minty, whom I thought I would not like at first, turned out to be a delight.
The romantic encounters were another spot of fresh air. While everything remained closed door, which is how I prefer it, for once there was no pretense that s3x didn't exist. This is one of my complaints about typical cozies. They're sweet and adorable, but even the nicest men I've ever met are not as patient as them. This is cozy mystery for the grown-up crowd, and I'm here for it.
This series is filled with dark humor, and can get graphic. Be sure to check content warnings and know that there are some morally grey characters at the center of the book. This is not your typical cozy mystery, but if you will give it a chance, I think you will absolutely love it! I can't wait to see more from Katherine Black. I will wait (probably not so) patiently watching for the next book to come out.
If you love a good cozy, but also have found some love for some of the old-school edgier ones like the "Goldy Bear" mysteries and the "Odelia Grey" ones that started in the 90s and probably should have had some trigger warnings, these are fantastic for you! And, if dark humor, cute pups, and zany friendships and relationships are your jam, pick this book up! You can read it as a standalone, but since I'm a completionist, I'd recommend starting with the first in the series "A Most Unusual Demise."
Content Warnings: Murder, Violence, Transphobia, Homophobia, Religious Ideas, Sexual Shaming, Adult Language, Adult Situations, Implied Harm to Animals (Off Page), Unintentional Cannibalism, Crude Humor, Dark Humor, Discussion of Suicide, Suicidal Ideations, Assisted Suicide
This is such an interesting take on the cozy crime genre. It definitely harkens back to an earlier day of cozy crime, when it was edgier and took bigger chances. Cozies are frequently sanitized and clean, like murder is very much beside the point. This book is absolutely a #murderbook - no doubt about it.
As a lover of #cozymysteries - the cozier the better - you'd think that means I didn't enjoy the book, but you would be wrong. I frequently enjoy when a writer takes something I love and subverts it, turning it on its head. As long as they do it well. Ms. Katherine Black has broken the "rules" of modern-day cozies like a true artist.
Though, maybe she has really stuck with the rules. May, our unlikely sleuth, is a retired librarian, even if she has a few secrets. Her dependable sidekick and cast of zany, small-town characters are super loveable, if not a lot more edgy than most. And Minty, whom I thought I would not like at first, turned out to be a delight.
The romantic encounters were another spot of fresh air. While everything remained closed door, which is how I prefer it, for once there was no pretense that s3x didn't exist. This is one of my complaints about typical cozies. They're sweet and adorable, but even the nicest men I've ever met are not as patient as them. This is cozy mystery for the grown-up crowd, and I'm here for it.
This series is filled with dark humor, and can get graphic. Be sure to check content warnings and know that there are some morally grey characters at the center of the book. This is not your typical cozy mystery, but if you will give it a chance, I think you will absolutely love it! I can't wait to see more from Katherine Black. I will wait (probably not so) patiently watching for the next book to come out.
If you love a good cozy, but also have found some love for some of the old-school edgier ones like the "Goldy Bear" mysteries and the "Odelia Grey" ones that started in the 90s and probably should have had some trigger warnings, these are fantastic for you! And, if dark humor, cute pups, and zany friendships and relationships are your jam, pick this book up! You can read it as a standalone, but since I'm a completionist, I'd recommend starting with the first in the series "A Most Unusual Demise."
Content Warnings: Murder, Violence, Transphobia, Homophobia, Religious Ideas, Sexual Shaming, Adult Language, Adult Situations, Implied Harm to Animals (Off Page), Unintentional Cannibalism, Crude Humor, Dark Humor, Discussion of Suicide, Suicidal Ideations, Assisted Suicide
January 14, 2024
May Morrigan has been best friends with Dr Fletcher Redmond for fifty years since their Cambridge university days, and once again they have found themselves housemates in the Morrigan Georgian family home of Greenway in Blackheath village, south of the Thames. After the departure of her husband a year ago, May seems to be returning to her old exuberant self again. She owns the Burgos Books bookshop and leaves the day to day running to manager (Se)Bastian, a flamboyant and enigmatic character. Fletcher himself has another side to him, cross dressing into Barbara Bouvier, a romantic novelist, when she pens her bestsellers. May has recently been joined by her 96-year-old mother Araminta (Minty) much to May’s horror, especially when Minty tells her she knows how good May is at killing people and wants to become another of her victims! May refuses to do it (although Minty certainly gives her good reasons to at times!) and there are some very humorous interactions between the pair. Fletcher has also acquired a new pal amour in the form of semi-retired computer science teacher Sparks, another delightful character. Trouble first strikes when everyone in the bookshop receives a chilling message on their phones which appears to be referring to their local vicar. The next day the vicar’s boyfriend (disguised as his housekeeper to the outside world) dies of poisoning and another message appears but no one dies. When a third message arrives aimed at Fletcher and he is the subject of a physical attack, the whole matter now becomes very personal and May, together with Fletcher, Sparks, Minty and Bastian, is determined to put a stop to the message writer for good.
This is a deliciously dark cosy story, not as cosy as maybe the cover would suggest with some quite adult behaviour, hugely entertaining with a whole host of vibrant and rather wonderful characters, and there’s certainly more to Minty than first meets the eye. The reader saw snippets about May’s sinister side in book one, from the knife concealed in her sleeve to her tormenting her annoying neighbour Geoffrey and she lives up to her reputation in this story, leaving bodies and a frustrated householder in her wake, picking locks and practicing rather effective self-defence. It’s another wickedly funny read with a smashing ending and I am most definitely looking forward to more from this very likable set of characters.
This is a deliciously dark cosy story, not as cosy as maybe the cover would suggest with some quite adult behaviour, hugely entertaining with a whole host of vibrant and rather wonderful characters, and there’s certainly more to Minty than first meets the eye. The reader saw snippets about May’s sinister side in book one, from the knife concealed in her sleeve to her tormenting her annoying neighbour Geoffrey and she lives up to her reputation in this story, leaving bodies and a frustrated householder in her wake, picking locks and practicing rather effective self-defence. It’s another wickedly funny read with a smashing ending and I am most definitely looking forward to more from this very likable set of characters.
January 14, 2024
Here is my review for A Most Malicious Messenger by Katherine Black
I found this book to be a fantastic read which I really enjoyed reading. It was very funny in places for a cozy mystery but that actually made it better because for me, they were laugh out loud moments. I enjoyed the author’s writing style which made for easy reading and I read the book in two sittings. A lot of the same characters are in this book as were in the first book only in this one, we have someone sending malicious messages by text. May feels it’s her duty to investigate and find out who is behind it and links the messages to something happening after they have been sent to anybody who is in the bookshop at 10am. I’m loving this series and hope there will be a third book in this great series.
Blurb :
Menacing texts lead to murder in an English village, in this unmissable, witty mystery by the Dagger Award–nominated author of A Most Unusual Demise.
May Morrigan is in her bookshop one morning when she—and everyone else in the shop—receives an anonymous text. It contains a reference to a Shakespeare quotation—and seems to be aimed at the vicar and his partner, Juan. The next morning, one of them is dead.
Meanwhile, May’s elderly mother, Minty, is staying with her, her old friend Fletcher, and her two dogs. To her dismay, Minty is quite preoccupied with death herself lately. She also keeps reminiscing about her past in ways that make May wonder what secrets she’s hiding.
As disturbing texts continue to arrive, the Blackheath residents are threatened with further revelations and titillations. Then Fletcher becomes the focus of the tormenting texter . . . and barely escapes an attempt on his life. It’s time for May to send a strong message—and block this killer permanently . . .
I found this book to be a fantastic read which I really enjoyed reading. It was very funny in places for a cozy mystery but that actually made it better because for me, they were laugh out loud moments. I enjoyed the author’s writing style which made for easy reading and I read the book in two sittings. A lot of the same characters are in this book as were in the first book only in this one, we have someone sending malicious messages by text. May feels it’s her duty to investigate and find out who is behind it and links the messages to something happening after they have been sent to anybody who is in the bookshop at 10am. I’m loving this series and hope there will be a third book in this great series.
Blurb :
Menacing texts lead to murder in an English village, in this unmissable, witty mystery by the Dagger Award–nominated author of A Most Unusual Demise.
May Morrigan is in her bookshop one morning when she—and everyone else in the shop—receives an anonymous text. It contains a reference to a Shakespeare quotation—and seems to be aimed at the vicar and his partner, Juan. The next morning, one of them is dead.
Meanwhile, May’s elderly mother, Minty, is staying with her, her old friend Fletcher, and her two dogs. To her dismay, Minty is quite preoccupied with death herself lately. She also keeps reminiscing about her past in ways that make May wonder what secrets she’s hiding.
As disturbing texts continue to arrive, the Blackheath residents are threatened with further revelations and titillations. Then Fletcher becomes the focus of the tormenting texter . . . and barely escapes an attempt on his life. It’s time for May to send a strong message—and block this killer permanently . . .
January 18, 2024
I have to say this was an absolute delight to read and I cannot wait for more!
- I laughed
- I laughed really hard
- I *might have snorted while laughing (in public, don't even care)
- I definitely highlighted bits and sent them to my friends to make them laugh and possibly snort
- I enjoyed the heck out of this read!
May Morrigan is a retired librarian and bookshop owner, living with her longtime best friend, her mother, and her two dogs. Then one day everyone receives a cryptic (menacing) Shakespearean text message and things start shaking up in their quiet lives.
I have to start by saying I don't know who I loved most-- May, best friend Fletcher, or her mother, Minty. They were all hilarious and wickedly entertaining. I kind of want to be all three when I grow up. May is intelligent and tenacious, Fletcher is loyal and creative, and Minty...oh Minty is just the best!
I don't read a lot of cozy mysteries, so I don't know how well this fits into the genre. It was darkly humorous with a balance of mystery and sleuthing with some tense moments sprinkled in there. Definitely a good read for someone looking for an entertaining mystery with lots of character and wicked humor.
I have to confess, when I picked this up I didn't initially realize this was actually book two in a series, but I wasn't lost not having read the first book. There were a couple of moments where I could tell I was missing some back story, but it genuinely didn't affect my reading. Still loved it! But I will be going back to read the first book as soon as I can.
I received a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
- I laughed
- I laughed really hard
- I *might have snorted while laughing (in public, don't even care)
- I definitely highlighted bits and sent them to my friends to make them laugh and possibly snort
- I enjoyed the heck out of this read!
May Morrigan is a retired librarian and bookshop owner, living with her longtime best friend, her mother, and her two dogs. Then one day everyone receives a cryptic (menacing) Shakespearean text message and things start shaking up in their quiet lives.
I have to start by saying I don't know who I loved most-- May, best friend Fletcher, or her mother, Minty. They were all hilarious and wickedly entertaining. I kind of want to be all three when I grow up. May is intelligent and tenacious, Fletcher is loyal and creative, and Minty...oh Minty is just the best!
I don't read a lot of cozy mysteries, so I don't know how well this fits into the genre. It was darkly humorous with a balance of mystery and sleuthing with some tense moments sprinkled in there. Definitely a good read for someone looking for an entertaining mystery with lots of character and wicked humor.
I have to confess, when I picked this up I didn't initially realize this was actually book two in a series, but I wasn't lost not having read the first book. There were a couple of moments where I could tell I was missing some back story, but it genuinely didn't affect my reading. Still loved it! But I will be going back to read the first book as soon as I can.
I received a gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
January 18, 2024
Brilliant book - highly recommend!
This is Book 2 of The Most Unusual Mysteries Series.
This book can be read as a standalone book, but there are nods to the previous book that, unless you've read, you wouldn't understand, but this didn't deter me.
In this book, we follow May as she aims to uncover the person behind a bunch of malicious messages and subsequent attacks, all while caring for her beloved daschunds - Bess and George.
Katherine has a special knack for creating likeable and relatable characters. May is great, and so is her (exhausting!) mother Minty. Minty is in her 90s, and adamant she wants her daughter to help her die because y'know she's on her death bed (... she isn't mind!)
Minty is hilarious, and I loved the 3rd person perspective of her. She is definitely cheeky and doesn't give a hoot what people say about her... well, for the most part!
May has a close circle of great characters surrounding her, and it was great to see their interactions as Katherine managed to draw you, as if you're there.
The storyline was simple but very, very clever. I didn't guess the culprit at all, so bravo to Katherine for that as I usually do! There were many twist and hilarious turns as the storyline inevitably reveals the shocking truth.
That epilogue! I did laugh when I realised my error!
The cover artwork is fantastic, and I love the image of the 2 pups in there... I'm a sucker for a cute pup in a story, so this just cemented my choice to read.
If you want a fantastic book to read with a really fab mystery to solve with loveable characters and cutie-pie pups, then this is the book for you!
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
This is Book 2 of The Most Unusual Mysteries Series.
This book can be read as a standalone book, but there are nods to the previous book that, unless you've read, you wouldn't understand, but this didn't deter me.
In this book, we follow May as she aims to uncover the person behind a bunch of malicious messages and subsequent attacks, all while caring for her beloved daschunds - Bess and George.
Katherine has a special knack for creating likeable and relatable characters. May is great, and so is her (exhausting!) mother Minty. Minty is in her 90s, and adamant she wants her daughter to help her die because y'know she's on her death bed (... she isn't mind!)
Minty is hilarious, and I loved the 3rd person perspective of her. She is definitely cheeky and doesn't give a hoot what people say about her... well, for the most part!
May has a close circle of great characters surrounding her, and it was great to see their interactions as Katherine managed to draw you, as if you're there.
The storyline was simple but very, very clever. I didn't guess the culprit at all, so bravo to Katherine for that as I usually do! There were many twist and hilarious turns as the storyline inevitably reveals the shocking truth.
That epilogue! I did laugh when I realised my error!
The cover artwork is fantastic, and I love the image of the 2 pups in there... I'm a sucker for a cute pup in a story, so this just cemented my choice to read.
If you want a fantastic book to read with a really fab mystery to solve with loveable characters and cutie-pie pups, then this is the book for you!
🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟 🌟
January 17, 2024
I loved the first book in this series and so I was so excited to read and review the second book and it definitely lived up to my expectations. I mean what isn't there to love dogs - sausage dogs no less - and murder, I mean its like she knew me - incoming Chandler dance.
I loved being back with the amazing characters some old and some new and I felt like I had never left, like I had simply closed my eyes, slept through the night, and, woken up in their lovely and murderous village once more - when I tell you I have never wanted to live somewhere more. Anybody that lives in a village will recognise little bits of this book and love it, it represents village life so well and there is always one that just irks people, my village certainly has one - Mavis I am eyeballing you.
I loved the way this one played out too with anonymous texts quoting Shakespeare its so bougie and I was utterly there for it. The story can be quite dark in times, but, it makes up for it with its endless humour -I laughed out loud so often with this book - at one point I even snorted - unattractive but wholly necessary.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes cosy crime with a touch of darkness
I loved being back with the amazing characters some old and some new and I felt like I had never left, like I had simply closed my eyes, slept through the night, and, woken up in their lovely and murderous village once more - when I tell you I have never wanted to live somewhere more. Anybody that lives in a village will recognise little bits of this book and love it, it represents village life so well and there is always one that just irks people, my village certainly has one - Mavis I am eyeballing you.
I loved the way this one played out too with anonymous texts quoting Shakespeare its so bougie and I was utterly there for it. The story can be quite dark in times, but, it makes up for it with its endless humour -I laughed out loud so often with this book - at one point I even snorted - unattractive but wholly necessary.
I highly recommend this series to anyone who likes cosy crime with a touch of darkness
January 28, 2024
For me, two dachshunds that resemble my own on the cover of a book was motivation for me to read “A Most Malicious Messenger” by Katherine Black. This is another cozy comedic mystery read for me this year. May Morrigan is a retired librarian running a bookshop, and lives with her mother Minty, and her best friend Fletcher (who owns two doxies!). The mayhem begins when an anonymous text is received May, followed by a death in the village. And another death. All in a not so cozy manner!
Add to this another story weaving in Minty’s past that is keeping May more intrigued than ever, and as the sleuthing begins, the anonymous texter decides to focus their attention in Fletcher. While the murder mysteries play out, the book is balanced out with a lot of light humour. I think that if I had read the first book I would have had more of a connection to May and Fletcher however I was able to read it as a stand alone book.
It was clever how the reveals occurred and that you were kept guessing along the way through the story. If you’re looking for a book to curl up wit on a holiday or a weekend, this one will be one to entertain you.
Add to this another story weaving in Minty’s past that is keeping May more intrigued than ever, and as the sleuthing begins, the anonymous texter decides to focus their attention in Fletcher. While the murder mysteries play out, the book is balanced out with a lot of light humour. I think that if I had read the first book I would have had more of a connection to May and Fletcher however I was able to read it as a stand alone book.
It was clever how the reveals occurred and that you were kept guessing along the way through the story. If you’re looking for a book to curl up wit on a holiday or a weekend, this one will be one to entertain you.
November 9, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of the audiobook format of this book.
This is the second book in the series. Having gone into this book without having read or listened to the first book in the series I wasn't sure what to expect, but it works well as a standalone. There is ample character and world development, so much so I kept forgetting it was the second book in a series.
This book falls really nicely into the cosy murder mystery category, keeping the intrigue and suspense required to create a gripping mystery while interspersing this with lighthearted, funny and heartfelt moments. You are kept guessing right up until the reveal which happens in a rather shocking and gruesome setting (I wouldn't recommend reading this book just before or just after eating, especially if you're a bit squeamish).
I enjoyed the story and mystery immensely and had this book been in a different format it may have received 5*. However I really struggled with the voices put on by the narrator and found the way the book was narrated took away from the story, hence the 4*.
This is the second book in the series. Having gone into this book without having read or listened to the first book in the series I wasn't sure what to expect, but it works well as a standalone. There is ample character and world development, so much so I kept forgetting it was the second book in a series.
This book falls really nicely into the cosy murder mystery category, keeping the intrigue and suspense required to create a gripping mystery while interspersing this with lighthearted, funny and heartfelt moments. You are kept guessing right up until the reveal which happens in a rather shocking and gruesome setting (I wouldn't recommend reading this book just before or just after eating, especially if you're a bit squeamish).
I enjoyed the story and mystery immensely and had this book been in a different format it may have received 5*. However I really struggled with the voices put on by the narrator and found the way the book was narrated took away from the story, hence the 4*.
July 9, 2025
I was super happy to be back with some of my favorite characters!
I will be honest, I was a little sad when I found out that certain characters from the first book would only appear in a few scenes / only be mentioned. While it makes sense plot wise for them to move on from the main cast, I still miss them 🥹
The murder case was intriguing! It reminded me of the ABC Murders by Agatha Christie (though my opinion can be a little biased, because that’s the book I read before this one). I never guessed who was the murderer!
I was pleasantly surprised when chaos started to ensue! I loved the wacky and over the top situations that the characters found themselves in! That’s what I love about Katherine Black’s books! All the shenanigans that she comes up with are simply hilarious!! Pair them with Jonathan Keeble’s voice and I’m having the time of my life listening to these books!
But we can’t ignore the emotional moments either. The addition of Minty to the main cast brought out some very interesting information about May and Fletcher. So many heartwarming scenes and adorable moments between characters! And that little twist at the end, it was so bittersweet 🥹
Final rating: 4.5 stars
I will be honest, I was a little sad when I found out that certain characters from the first book would only appear in a few scenes / only be mentioned. While it makes sense plot wise for them to move on from the main cast, I still miss them 🥹
The murder case was intriguing! It reminded me of the ABC Murders by Agatha Christie (though my opinion can be a little biased, because that’s the book I read before this one). I never guessed who was the murderer!
I was pleasantly surprised when chaos started to ensue! I loved the wacky and over the top situations that the characters found themselves in! That’s what I love about Katherine Black’s books! All the shenanigans that she comes up with are simply hilarious!! Pair them with Jonathan Keeble’s voice and I’m having the time of my life listening to these books!
But we can’t ignore the emotional moments either. The addition of Minty to the main cast brought out some very interesting information about May and Fletcher. So many heartwarming scenes and adorable moments between characters! And that little twist at the end, it was so bittersweet 🥹
Final rating: 4.5 stars
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