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The Isle of Wight Killings #2
A Parish Murder
'I thoroughly enjoyed this intriguing mystery set in a beautiful location with deliciously menacing undercurrents.' Frances Evesham The Isle of Wight has always felt like a safe place to live for keen dog-walker and reluctant sleuth Susan. But after being involved in the investigation of a troubling crime near her old home, Susan decides to move to the peaceful village of Bishopstone.
Susan loves the sense of community and immediately throws herself into village life, volunteering at the local primary school and joining the choir of St Jude’s. So, when there is an altercation at the meeting of the choir committee, followed by a shocking accident involving head teacher Lawrence, Susan is dismayed to realise her powers of deduction may be needed again.
There is a dangerous criminal hiding in plain sight and with the police reluctant to help, Susan must put together the pieces of the fiendish puzzle to flush out a killer before they strike again.
A brand new cosy mystery from the author of the bestselling The House Party. Perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, Faith Martin and LJ Ross.
'A masterclass in story-telling.' Owen Mullen What readers are saying about Mary
‘I’ve read all of Mary Grand’s book and this one is just another brilliant read. I loved the way the characters interact and the twists in finding out who the murderer was. A great book to curl up in a comfy seat and try to work out who done it!’
‘Mary Grand does it again with a gripping who done it on the beautiful Isle of Wight. A new and exciting cast of characters both two and four legged (dogs as always an important part of the story) lead us on a chase to unravel the clues, ignore the red herrings and guess the murderer. Who knew that such skillduggery happened on this much loved holiday island? I always so enjoy her books and can't recommend them highly enough. I also can't wait for the next one!!!!’
‘I’ve so enjoyed Death at Castle Cove. I visited the Isle of Wight about 8 years ago for the day and I remember Ventnor very well as we stopped there for an hour. Mary your booked transported me back there and your descriptions of the beaches and area roundabout are lovely. I really had no idea ‘whodunit’ and I loved the way you teased us with snippets sending us in all directions. I’m looking forward to your next one and thank you for a lovely read and an escape around the IOW.’
‘All Mary Grand’s books are great reading and her latest is no exception. I loved it!’
‘Truly could not put this book down and read on into the night. The main character is determined to save the mystery of her friend’s death and tho’ she was unwisely outspoken, at risk and often wrong, her efforts bring dividends. A reader has no option but to stay with her all the way.’
‘I especially liked how the author gradually peeled back the layers. Layers of secrets and lies. I don’t know how many times I changed my mind about who the killer was. It was so well done, and I didn’t guess whodunnit until the reveal. I really enjoyed it and plan to read more from this author in the future.’
Susan loves the sense of community and immediately throws herself into village life, volunteering at the local primary school and joining the choir of St Jude’s. So, when there is an altercation at the meeting of the choir committee, followed by a shocking accident involving head teacher Lawrence, Susan is dismayed to realise her powers of deduction may be needed again.
There is a dangerous criminal hiding in plain sight and with the police reluctant to help, Susan must put together the pieces of the fiendish puzzle to flush out a killer before they strike again.
A brand new cosy mystery from the author of the bestselling The House Party. Perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, Faith Martin and LJ Ross.
'A masterclass in story-telling.' Owen Mullen What readers are saying about Mary
‘I’ve read all of Mary Grand’s book and this one is just another brilliant read. I loved the way the characters interact and the twists in finding out who the murderer was. A great book to curl up in a comfy seat and try to work out who done it!’
‘Mary Grand does it again with a gripping who done it on the beautiful Isle of Wight. A new and exciting cast of characters both two and four legged (dogs as always an important part of the story) lead us on a chase to unravel the clues, ignore the red herrings and guess the murderer. Who knew that such skillduggery happened on this much loved holiday island? I always so enjoy her books and can't recommend them highly enough. I also can't wait for the next one!!!!’
‘I’ve so enjoyed Death at Castle Cove. I visited the Isle of Wight about 8 years ago for the day and I remember Ventnor very well as we stopped there for an hour. Mary your booked transported me back there and your descriptions of the beaches and area roundabout are lovely. I really had no idea ‘whodunit’ and I loved the way you teased us with snippets sending us in all directions. I’m looking forward to your next one and thank you for a lovely read and an escape around the IOW.’
‘All Mary Grand’s books are great reading and her latest is no exception. I loved it!’
‘Truly could not put this book down and read on into the night. The main character is determined to save the mystery of her friend’s death and tho’ she was unwisely outspoken, at risk and often wrong, her efforts bring dividends. A reader has no option but to stay with her all the way.’
‘I especially liked how the author gradually peeled back the layers. Layers of secrets and lies. I don’t know how many times I changed my mind about who the killer was. It was so well done, and I didn’t guess whodunnit until the reveal. I really enjoyed it and plan to read more from this author in the future.’
344 pages, Paperback
Published February 10, 2024
321 people are currently reading
133 people want to read
About the author
Mary Grand
17 books268 followersI grew up in Wales. Later I taught in London and then worked with Deaf Children in Hastings. I now live on the beautiful Isle of Wight with my family.
I am published by Boldwood Books and write murder mystery, whodunnits, set on the Isle of Wight. The House Party was published in July 2020
The next 'The Island' will be published on June 24th, 2021.
Previously I published three novels, Free to Be Tegan, Hidden Chapters and Behind the Smile. I have also written two anthologies of short stories, Making Changes and Catching the light is a FREE download.
I would love to hear from you on my blog here on Goodreads.
I am published by Boldwood Books and write murder mystery, whodunnits, set on the Isle of Wight. The House Party was published in July 2020
The next 'The Island' will be published on June 24th, 2021.
Previously I published three novels, Free to Be Tegan, Hidden Chapters and Behind the Smile. I have also written two anthologies of short stories, Making Changes and Catching the light is a FREE download.
I would love to hear from you on my blog here on Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 13, 2024
Having a main character who is grandmother age was a refreshing choice, and I liked that she was also navigating changes and problems in her own life while trying to put all of the puzzle pieces together. There are a lot of characters in this book, but I was mostly able to keep them organized in my mind, with only a few misunderstandings here and there. Though this is the second book in a series, I was able to get a good understanding of the main character and her situation without having read the first.
The mystery was done well, with enough hints and small reveals that the final reveal was gratifying. I was not able to guess the killer, but I also did not think that it came completely out of left field. The stakes were high enough that I’m not sure I would classify this as a cozy mystery, but it also wasn’t quite intense enough where I would call it a suspense book either. Those looking for a quick whodunnit murder mystery with a unique main character will find this book a great read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This is my honest review.
4/5 Murder makes for a complicated “fresh start.”
The mystery was done well, with enough hints and small reveals that the final reveal was gratifying. I was not able to guess the killer, but I also did not think that it came completely out of left field. The stakes were high enough that I’m not sure I would classify this as a cozy mystery, but it also wasn’t quite intense enough where I would call it a suspense book either. Those looking for a quick whodunnit murder mystery with a unique main character will find this book a great read.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This is my honest review.
4/5 Murder makes for a complicated “fresh start.”
February 17, 2024
Set in a beautiful location on the Isle of Wight, this second entry in the The Isle of Wight Killings featuring amateur sleuth Susan, does not disappoint. Having moved to the village of Bishopstone for a more peaceful life, Susan once more finds herself in the middle of a murder mystery. Lots of twists and turns, and interesting characters make this a great read.
February 10, 2024
Having read several of Mary Grand’s previous books I couldn’t wait to read Death At St. Jude’s. I wasn’t disappointed. Once again the story is set on the beautiful Isle of Wight and featured Susan who we last met solving a murder in Ventnor. She has now moved to the village of Brighstone renamed Bishopstone for the story. As an Island resident I was able to imagine every part of the book and will never be able to look at that church in the same way again. Susan is quietly settling into her new home and trying to involve herself in village life. She joins the church choir and a shock announcement at a meeting of the committee leaves everyone angry and upset. Shortly afterwards Lawrence, the headmaster of the village school and the person who made the unpopular decision is found dead beneath the church tower. A terrible accident? Or is one of the locals guilty of murder. His widow, Hazel won’t believe it was a tragic accident and asks Susan for her help in finding the truth. As with all of Mary’s books there are several suspects all of whom could have reasons to resort to murder but most seem far too nice. As usual Mary delivered a curve ball that, however hard I had tried, I didn’t see coming. I have yet to discover any of her culprits and this makes her such a good writer. I loved the complexities of this story and raced through it. I was delighted to read the final paragraph that hinted at a further book in this great series that has some wonderfully warm and interesting characters.
February 19, 2024
The gentle pace of life in the village of Bishopstone, along with its welcoming community, has proved to be exactly the fresh start Susan felt she needed – and, one day soon, she really will get all those boxes unpacked after her move. But it seems that passions are running high beneath its peaceful surface – an altercation at the St Jude’s choir committee meeting, when the village school’s headmaster Lawrence decides to withdraw funding, resulting in the inevitable ending of choirmaster Ross’ contract and a dilemma for vicar Daniel. Leaving Lawrence watching bats from the church tower, he locks the door behind her – but later that night, he’s found dead after an unexplained fall. His wife can’t believe it was the unfortunate accident the police believe it to be, and asks for Susan’s help in investigating – and she begins to uncover undercurrents and hidden secrets in the quiet village, and a mounting threat to her own safety as she draws closer to the truth.
At the nearby nursing home, Susan has her elderly friend Alice to use as a sounding board – she was so valuable for her insights during her previous investigation, teasing out clues when she couldn’t work out her next move. But there are so many suspects – all quite wonderfully drawn characters, and every one of them credible. It seems that vicar Daniel might just have a bit of a secret life – and his flamboyant wife Jessie might not be quite what she seems either. And then there are the other teachers at the school – young Cerys who lodges at the vicarage and is still finding her feet, and dedicated Fiona who regularly works into the early hours. And then there’s choirmaster Ross – was he really going to be content to just walk away?
Walking her dogs gives Susan time and space to consider her next moves and weigh up the evidence she collects – but also to think about the changes in her own life. Ex-policeman friend Robert provides support, but worries about her repeatedly putting herself in the path of personal danger – and might she now be ready to let him become rather more than just a friend? And then there are her family issues – her ex-husband walked away, but with a new granddaughter will be coming back into her life, with some inevitable emotional turmoil attached.
This really is a wonderfully told story, filled with twists and turns and unexpected discoveries – and with a steadily increasing tension as it becomes clear that someone doesn’t want Susan to join up the pieces, and the threat increases to her personal safety. There are so many clues and hidden secrets, suspects moving in and out of the frame, red herrings and clever bits of misdirection, small details that might (or might not…) be significant and it was great fun to try to solve the case before Susan and Alice did – and, of course, I failed dismally as always. And the pacing of the whole story is just as perfect as ever – speeding up as the final revelation approaches, making the book quite impossible to put down.
Another triumph for an author whose books I unfailingly enjoy – a really compelling read, with an amateur sleuth I’ve really taken to my heart. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this lovely series – but this is one I’d very much recommend to others.
At the nearby nursing home, Susan has her elderly friend Alice to use as a sounding board – she was so valuable for her insights during her previous investigation, teasing out clues when she couldn’t work out her next move. But there are so many suspects – all quite wonderfully drawn characters, and every one of them credible. It seems that vicar Daniel might just have a bit of a secret life – and his flamboyant wife Jessie might not be quite what she seems either. And then there are the other teachers at the school – young Cerys who lodges at the vicarage and is still finding her feet, and dedicated Fiona who regularly works into the early hours. And then there’s choirmaster Ross – was he really going to be content to just walk away?
Walking her dogs gives Susan time and space to consider her next moves and weigh up the evidence she collects – but also to think about the changes in her own life. Ex-policeman friend Robert provides support, but worries about her repeatedly putting herself in the path of personal danger – and might she now be ready to let him become rather more than just a friend? And then there are her family issues – her ex-husband walked away, but with a new granddaughter will be coming back into her life, with some inevitable emotional turmoil attached.
This really is a wonderfully told story, filled with twists and turns and unexpected discoveries – and with a steadily increasing tension as it becomes clear that someone doesn’t want Susan to join up the pieces, and the threat increases to her personal safety. There are so many clues and hidden secrets, suspects moving in and out of the frame, red herrings and clever bits of misdirection, small details that might (or might not…) be significant and it was great fun to try to solve the case before Susan and Alice did – and, of course, I failed dismally as always. And the pacing of the whole story is just as perfect as ever – speeding up as the final revelation approaches, making the book quite impossible to put down.
Another triumph for an author whose books I unfailingly enjoy – a really compelling read, with an amateur sleuth I’ve really taken to my heart. I’m already looking forward to the next book in this lovely series – but this is one I’d very much recommend to others.
February 11, 2024
ARC REVIEW
After her divorce, Susan moved to the Isle of Wight to start a new life. Susan has immersed herself in her new community and is involved with the church choir at St Jude’s. Following a regular evening choir practice, a committee meeting is held. At that meeting, Lawrence announced he was terminating Ross's contract, which did not go well. Shortly after that meeting, Lawrence is found dead, suspected to have fallen from a tower. Susan feels Lawrence's death is suspicious and was not accidental. Despite being asked not to get involved, Susan goes into amateur sleuth mode and tries to find the perpetrator.
Death at St Jude’s is a good cozy mystery filled with twists and turns that kept me on my toes. There are so many suspects that I had to keep notes! I love that everyone had something to hide, which made it harder for me to figure out the guilty party. I was fully immersed in the investigation and could not put this book down until I knew who did it. The author did a wonderful job describing the British Isle. The writing is fantastic and the story is easy to follow.
Thank you Mary Grand, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
After her divorce, Susan moved to the Isle of Wight to start a new life. Susan has immersed herself in her new community and is involved with the church choir at St Jude’s. Following a regular evening choir practice, a committee meeting is held. At that meeting, Lawrence announced he was terminating Ross's contract, which did not go well. Shortly after that meeting, Lawrence is found dead, suspected to have fallen from a tower. Susan feels Lawrence's death is suspicious and was not accidental. Despite being asked not to get involved, Susan goes into amateur sleuth mode and tries to find the perpetrator.
Death at St Jude’s is a good cozy mystery filled with twists and turns that kept me on my toes. There are so many suspects that I had to keep notes! I love that everyone had something to hide, which made it harder for me to figure out the guilty party. I was fully immersed in the investigation and could not put this book down until I knew who did it. The author did a wonderful job describing the British Isle. The writing is fantastic and the story is easy to follow.
Thank you Mary Grand, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
February 16, 2024
This was my first read of Mary Grand's books and it was an entertaining one filled with twists, turns and yet more twists. I appreciated the main sleuths being of a more advanced age than the current detectives that fill most mysteries. I enjoyed Alice's contributions and Susan's steadfastness. The story itself had a lot of characters, all with secrets, telling lies and red herrings galore. I had a bit to keep track of at first. I had an inkling of the killer early on but didn't really piece together the motives until they were revealed at the end.
The one thing that spoiled it a bit for me was the fact that everything seemed to fall into place with Susan. Everyone she chatted with was happy to confess their deepest secrets just because she asked, it seemed. It was almost too easy sometimes and there were confessions flying left, right and centre and all just seemed happy with the fact that she would keep things a secret.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the flow and the jam packed ideas and actions of the characters that kept me guessing.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
The one thing that spoiled it a bit for me was the fact that everything seemed to fall into place with Susan. Everyone she chatted with was happy to confess their deepest secrets just because she asked, it seemed. It was almost too easy sometimes and there were confessions flying left, right and centre and all just seemed happy with the fact that she would keep things a secret.
Apart from that, I enjoyed the flow and the jam packed ideas and actions of the characters that kept me guessing.
Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2024
Mary Grand - Death At St Judes.
Susan’s fresh start doesn’t go as smoothly as she’d hoped. Joining the church choir should be a fun and relaxing activity…. in theory!
While their voices sing in harmony, there is discord behind the scenes. And before long, a dead body is discovered!
In a tale worthy of a place in Midsummer, Mary Grand, once more takes us to the glorious Isle of Wight.
Despite the idyllic setting and seemingly harmless locals, darkness and skullduggery are afoot.
Mary Grand has crafted another intriguing and cleverly thought out whodunnit.
Prepare to be gripped and thrown around on this rollercoaster of a book.
Cosy crime is rapidly becoming one of my favourite genres, and Mary Grand one of my favourite authors.
Well done Mary, Death At St Judes is a fabulous read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Susan’s fresh start doesn’t go as smoothly as she’d hoped. Joining the church choir should be a fun and relaxing activity…. in theory!
While their voices sing in harmony, there is discord behind the scenes. And before long, a dead body is discovered!
In a tale worthy of a place in Midsummer, Mary Grand, once more takes us to the glorious Isle of Wight.
Despite the idyllic setting and seemingly harmless locals, darkness and skullduggery are afoot.
Mary Grand has crafted another intriguing and cleverly thought out whodunnit.
Prepare to be gripped and thrown around on this rollercoaster of a book.
Cosy crime is rapidly becoming one of my favourite genres, and Mary Grand one of my favourite authors.
Well done Mary, Death At St Judes is a fabulous read.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 14, 2024
great read
A lovely book to read, full of characters on the Isle of Wight, loved the dogs activities especially as I know one of them. I hope to read more about Susan’s sleuthing again and how her relationship with Robert proceeds, thank you Mary Grand .
A lovely book to read, full of characters on the Isle of Wight, loved the dogs activities especially as I know one of them. I hope to read more about Susan’s sleuthing again and how her relationship with Robert proceeds, thank you Mary Grand .
February 16, 2024
3.5 stars
A very interesting mystery. It was a chill, fun time and was just a nice time. The characters were interesting and I wanted to find out who was the murderer.
A very interesting mystery. It was a chill, fun time and was just a nice time. The characters were interesting and I wanted to find out who was the murderer.
February 3, 2024
A nice investigation by a natural snoop in a small village on a coastal island. Loved it!
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received an EARC from Boldwood Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
March 7, 2024
As crime stories go, I found this an easy read. I would have preferred a few less characters, especially as most of them appeared in the first few pages of the book. It took a while to sort out who was who. The end was a real surprise though, and though I hadnt fully decided who I thought was the guilty party, the one who was guilty was not even in my suspect list. Biggest disappointment was the location. As a massive fan of the Isle of Wight I was looking forward to recognising certain areas but was surprised at there not being very much to suggest the location at all. Other than a minor mention of a couple of places, it left me thinking it could have been anywhere in England.
Sad to say this book hasn't left me wanting to read other books by this author.
Sad to say this book hasn't left me wanting to read other books by this author.
March 10, 2024
Everyone is a suspect.
I absolutely LOVE these psychological thrillers from Mary. On every page is another suspicious thing about someone but then at the end, the twist is a shocker! The fact the books are set on the Isle of Wight is another treat.
I absolutely LOVE these psychological thrillers from Mary. On every page is another suspicious thing about someone but then at the end, the twist is a shocker! The fact the books are set on the Isle of Wight is another treat.
August 29, 2024
Love finding new authors and Mary Grand storytelling was very engaging. More than a cozy mystery, but not quite a suspense story. The main character Susan has moved to the Isle of Wight to start anew after her marriage of 40 years fell apart.. Settling into life in a small village she joins the church choir as a way to meet people. But when one of the choir members dies mysteriously and things don’t add up, Susan starts her own investigation.
There are of course quite a few possibilities and many secrets, had me guessing whodunnit till the end. The pacing of the story was great and definitely can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #DeathatStJudes #BoldwoodBooks
There are of course quite a few possibilities and many secrets, had me guessing whodunnit till the end. The pacing of the story was great and definitely can be read as a standalone. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #DeathatStJudes #BoldwoodBooks
April 3, 2024
Reluctant sleuth Susan, has moved away from her old home where her first investigation occurred, bothered by the memory of murder and ugly secrets she has settled in the peaceful village of Bishopstone on the Island of Wight. Susan has thrown herself into the local community volunteering and joining the choir. But this peaceful village doesn't stay peaceful for long when an argument breaks out during choir practice and an "accidental" fall soon follows for one of the participants. Susan feels there is something wrong here and once again most investigate to bring a cunning murderer to justice.
I really liked the characters. Susan has problems in her own life between dealing with a possible new romance and the reappearance of her ex-husband on her doorstep complaining about his present relationship. Plus, she really doesn't want to believe that another murder has come to disturb her new found peace. The problems make her feel very real and someone who isn't perfect.
I particularly like the acknowledgement that being close to murder is disturbing to one's peace, particularly if one is doing the investigation and uncovering a lot of nasty secrets. Most cozy series, particularly long ones, have the characters living life in their wonderful community where so many people get along but there happens to be all these murders. All the murder victims can't all be visiting town. It would eat away at anyone's sense of security and trust in people to have this violence routinely apart of their lives. I know you can't have the main characters move to a new town every book because that would destroy the sense of community and bonds of family and friendship that people look for in a cozy. It is still nice to see the consequences of murder rippling beyond the last page of the last book and acknowledged every now and then.
There were a lot of twists in this book; I really enjoyed it. And the lovely descriptions of the island didn't hurt either. Looking for a good English village cozy mystery, try this. You won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I really liked the characters. Susan has problems in her own life between dealing with a possible new romance and the reappearance of her ex-husband on her doorstep complaining about his present relationship. Plus, she really doesn't want to believe that another murder has come to disturb her new found peace. The problems make her feel very real and someone who isn't perfect.
I particularly like the acknowledgement that being close to murder is disturbing to one's peace, particularly if one is doing the investigation and uncovering a lot of nasty secrets. Most cozy series, particularly long ones, have the characters living life in their wonderful community where so many people get along but there happens to be all these murders. All the murder victims can't all be visiting town. It would eat away at anyone's sense of security and trust in people to have this violence routinely apart of their lives. I know you can't have the main characters move to a new town every book because that would destroy the sense of community and bonds of family and friendship that people look for in a cozy. It is still nice to see the consequences of murder rippling beyond the last page of the last book and acknowledged every now and then.
There were a lot of twists in this book; I really enjoyed it. And the lovely descriptions of the island didn't hurt either. Looking for a good English village cozy mystery, try this. You won't be disappointed.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
December 26, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance copy of this cozy mystery.
Susan lives on the Isle of Wight. She has recently moved from the town where she lived for 40 years with her husband prior to her divorce. She's now on the west side of the island. She lives in a small cottage next to an identical house where Hazel lives with her husband Lawrence. After choir practice at St. Jude's church, Susan agrees to climb to the top of the church tower with Lawrence to see the bats come out. It's a scary climb in the semi dark with no handrail, but they get up without incident, and Lawrence brings out a warm tarp to lie on. Susan finds it fascinating to see the different types of bats (long eared being a variety I hadn't heard of.) Susan and Lawrence go down so she can leave, as he locks the door behind her. A heavy rain starts about half an hour later, so Susan knows he would have come down. But then she is disturbed by flashing lights and voices talking in the small village, she goes to the church where she sees Lawrence's body - he's fallen from the clock tower.
Susan's past is not revealed to the reader - I think she's about 65 years old and a teacher. These facts may be in the previous book in the series. She's also mindless to the danger she puts herself in, as there are a few scary things that happen to her, and her male friend Robert tells her to be careful going to dark, lonely places with suspects. She continues to do so. She takes her two dogs for walks on dark paths late at night (after 10 o'clock) and approaches people she should avoid. She's learning secrets about the suspects, but she's getting threats too. I was happy that I guessed who the killer was, but there are a lot of red herrings here - all the suspects have things to hide from the police and their friends. I am going to read the first book in the series to maybe get more background on the lead character, and would read future books too.
Susan lives on the Isle of Wight. She has recently moved from the town where she lived for 40 years with her husband prior to her divorce. She's now on the west side of the island. She lives in a small cottage next to an identical house where Hazel lives with her husband Lawrence. After choir practice at St. Jude's church, Susan agrees to climb to the top of the church tower with Lawrence to see the bats come out. It's a scary climb in the semi dark with no handrail, but they get up without incident, and Lawrence brings out a warm tarp to lie on. Susan finds it fascinating to see the different types of bats (long eared being a variety I hadn't heard of.) Susan and Lawrence go down so she can leave, as he locks the door behind her. A heavy rain starts about half an hour later, so Susan knows he would have come down. But then she is disturbed by flashing lights and voices talking in the small village, she goes to the church where she sees Lawrence's body - he's fallen from the clock tower.
Susan's past is not revealed to the reader - I think she's about 65 years old and a teacher. These facts may be in the previous book in the series. She's also mindless to the danger she puts herself in, as there are a few scary things that happen to her, and her male friend Robert tells her to be careful going to dark, lonely places with suspects. She continues to do so. She takes her two dogs for walks on dark paths late at night (after 10 o'clock) and approaches people she should avoid. She's learning secrets about the suspects, but she's getting threats too. I was happy that I guessed who the killer was, but there are a lot of red herrings here - all the suspects have things to hide from the police and their friends. I am going to read the first book in the series to maybe get more background on the lead character, and would read future books too.
February 25, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Death at St Jude’s is the second Isle of Wight cozy mystery by Mary Grand. Released 10th Feb 2024 by Boldwood Books, it's 347 (e-format) pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The first book in the series, Death at Castle Cove , is also currently available on KU.
This is a well written and engaging story with an appealing and intelligent protagonist, set in a vividly beautiful location. The author has a gift with descriptive prose, and does a good job of "showing" and not "telling" in the story. The mystery itself is well constructed and self contained in this volume. All necessary backstory is included for the characters, so it works well as a standalone.
With two books published in the ongoing series, it would be a good choice for a weekend binge / buddy read. The author wasn't previously on my radar, but fans of Faith Martin and Frances Evesham will find a lot to like here.
Four stars. Competent writing and a well constructed mystery.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Death at St Jude’s is the second Isle of Wight cozy mystery by Mary Grand. Released 10th Feb 2024 by Boldwood Books, it's 347 (e-format) pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The first book in the series, Death at Castle Cove , is also currently available on KU.
This is a well written and engaging story with an appealing and intelligent protagonist, set in a vividly beautiful location. The author has a gift with descriptive prose, and does a good job of "showing" and not "telling" in the story. The mystery itself is well constructed and self contained in this volume. All necessary backstory is included for the characters, so it works well as a standalone.
With two books published in the ongoing series, it would be a good choice for a weekend binge / buddy read. The author wasn't previously on my radar, but fans of Faith Martin and Frances Evesham will find a lot to like here.
Four stars. Competent writing and a well constructed mystery.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
November 9, 2024
Fans of Miss Marple and Agatha Raisin will love Mary Grand’s Death at St Jude’s.
The Isle of Wight has always been a safe haven for dog-walker Susan – until she ended up entangled in a troubling investigation close to her old home. Having now moved to the village of Bishopstone, Susan hopes to spend her days getting to know her neighbours and helping out in the local community, not solving murders. However, little does she realize that she’s going to have to put all her skills to test and turn detective yet again!
Joining the choir at St. Jude’s, Susan is shocked when one day she witnesses a shocking altercation at the meeting for the choir committee, followed by a shocking incident involving head teacher Lawrence. With a dangerous killer hiding in plain sight and the police refusing to get involved, Susan realizes that she needs to get to the bottom of this case by doing the investigating herself. Can she catch the killer before more bodies are found? Or has whoever is responsible already got their next victim in their sights?
A treat for cozy mystery fans, Mary Grand’s Death at St Jude’s has a terrific amateur sleuth, a strong sense of place and tension, suspense and red herrings galore. A gripping mystery readers will not be able to put down, Mary Grand’s Death at St Jude’s is a hugely enjoyable page-turner I couldn’t read fast enough.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Isle of Wight has always been a safe haven for dog-walker Susan – until she ended up entangled in a troubling investigation close to her old home. Having now moved to the village of Bishopstone, Susan hopes to spend her days getting to know her neighbours and helping out in the local community, not solving murders. However, little does she realize that she’s going to have to put all her skills to test and turn detective yet again!
Joining the choir at St. Jude’s, Susan is shocked when one day she witnesses a shocking altercation at the meeting for the choir committee, followed by a shocking incident involving head teacher Lawrence. With a dangerous killer hiding in plain sight and the police refusing to get involved, Susan realizes that she needs to get to the bottom of this case by doing the investigating herself. Can she catch the killer before more bodies are found? Or has whoever is responsible already got their next victim in their sights?
A treat for cozy mystery fans, Mary Grand’s Death at St Jude’s has a terrific amateur sleuth, a strong sense of place and tension, suspense and red herrings galore. A gripping mystery readers will not be able to put down, Mary Grand’s Death at St Jude’s is a hugely enjoyable page-turner I couldn’t read fast enough.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 10, 2024
This book may be labeled as a “cozy mystery” but “Death at St. Jude’s”, The Isle of Wight Killings Book 2, seemed to me a lot more mysterious, dangerous and thrilling than a simple cozy. Author Mary Grand has created a book that is so intense and chilling, I wanted to hide in a closet with my dog as I read it. This is quite the story and I couldn’t read it fast enough. Great book!
Most of Author Grand’s books take place on the Isle of Wight, a lovely place with beaches, downs, woodlands, villages and towns- idyllic and peaceful. Recently divorced Susan has lived on the Isle for years, but moved away from her ex-husband to a village on the other side of the Isle. She’s busy getting settled and meeting neighbors. When neighbor Lawrence, the Headmaster, invites Susan to go to the church tower and look for bats, she eagerly accepts. Shortly after she returns home, Lawrence is found dead by the tower. Self- inflicted death or a murder???
Susan and her nursing home friend have paired before to solve a mystery, so they start to research and unravel Lawrence’s death. There are many suspects, connected to Lawrence through school or church. Who did it?
Author Mary Grand slowly reveals the clues and this truly is a difficult mystery for the reader to solve. But it all adds up in the end. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.
Most of Author Grand’s books take place on the Isle of Wight, a lovely place with beaches, downs, woodlands, villages and towns- idyllic and peaceful. Recently divorced Susan has lived on the Isle for years, but moved away from her ex-husband to a village on the other side of the Isle. She’s busy getting settled and meeting neighbors. When neighbor Lawrence, the Headmaster, invites Susan to go to the church tower and look for bats, she eagerly accepts. Shortly after she returns home, Lawrence is found dead by the tower. Self- inflicted death or a murder???
Susan and her nursing home friend have paired before to solve a mystery, so they start to research and unravel Lawrence’s death. There are many suspects, connected to Lawrence through school or church. Who did it?
Author Mary Grand slowly reveals the clues and this truly is a difficult mystery for the reader to solve. But it all adds up in the end. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
Highly recommend! Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance digital review copy. This is my honest review.
December 28, 2023
Set on the Isle of Wight this tells the story around the head teacher of the local school falling from the church tower when he was up there watching bats. Lawrence was afraid of heights and always locked the door behind him when he went up and stayed in the centre of the tower so as not to go near the crenelated edges. He had not long told the committee of an unpopular decision so was his death an accident? Susan, who helped find a murderer previously, is well placed to hear gossip in the local village and thinks this is no accident. This is the second in the series but happily stands alone, I hadn't read the first one.
I really enjoyed this. It's a good plot with lots of red herrings and potential suspects. I liked Susan. She’s astute and sharp and finds things out without being overbearing in other people's lives. There is a great sub-story in Susan's personal life which merges well. If you enjoy a light-hearted crime story with plenty to keep the grey matter active this could be the perfect series. A thoroughly enjoyable read that kept me engaged right the way through. I look forward to more in the series.
For more reviews please follow me on Twitter or Threads @nickisbookblog
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February 8, 2024
Set on the Isle of Wight the setting alone is atmospheric. It wasn’t remote or inaccessible but it had its charm. Susan has just moved there. After a divorce and three years down the line, she is trying very hard to get back to a single life. With her two dogs by her side, good neighbours and interacting with local church activities draws her into a good social circle.
When Lawrence is found dead, fallen from a tower suspicions mount especially as it followed an acrimonious committee meeting in the church. So much does not seem right to Susan, but the local police and the village want to go with the accidental death verdict. Susan follows her own detection, she knows she is ruffling feathers when her house is egged and then had graffiti written on it. Those who were her friends are annoyed that she is investigating, when the Police have stopped.
The entire cast of characters had stuff to hide and not wanting it to be aired in public, and they’d go to extreme measures to keep them secret. One by one from the Deputy Head of the school, to the vicar and his wife, junior teachers and the music director have secrets unveiled. The final outcome was a surprise though.
Good, classic detection skills.
When Lawrence is found dead, fallen from a tower suspicions mount especially as it followed an acrimonious committee meeting in the church. So much does not seem right to Susan, but the local police and the village want to go with the accidental death verdict. Susan follows her own detection, she knows she is ruffling feathers when her house is egged and then had graffiti written on it. Those who were her friends are annoyed that she is investigating, when the Police have stopped.
The entire cast of characters had stuff to hide and not wanting it to be aired in public, and they’d go to extreme measures to keep them secret. One by one from the Deputy Head of the school, to the vicar and his wife, junior teachers and the music director have secrets unveiled. The final outcome was a surprise though.
Good, classic detection skills.
October 16, 2025
Susan has moved house after an experience with a murder. Now, as she settles in, she is in the midst of another investigation into a suspicious death when the local head teacher dies after plummeting from the church…
Death At St Jude’s is the second book to feature Susan but the first that I have read.
Susan was watching bats with Lawrence in the church bell tower. She knows how careful he was up there due to being scared of heights. So she finds it very strange that he would have gone near enough to the edge to fall over. The alternative is that he was pushed but who, why and how?
There was a big argument at the start and Lawrence upset many people but is there a strong enough motive for murder? Susan looks into the range of suspects and their alibis and motives as the police still think it was an accident.
Having not read the first book, I liked Susan’s character and felt sorry for her having been through a divorce and trying to find a new direction for her life. I felt that there were a lot of characters: those in the village as well as Susan’s other friends and family. The plot is a little slow and Susan seems to chat to many characters that don’t seem to have a direct connection to the death.
Death At St Jude’s is an intriguing murder mystery.
Death At St Jude’s is the second book to feature Susan but the first that I have read.
Susan was watching bats with Lawrence in the church bell tower. She knows how careful he was up there due to being scared of heights. So she finds it very strange that he would have gone near enough to the edge to fall over. The alternative is that he was pushed but who, why and how?
There was a big argument at the start and Lawrence upset many people but is there a strong enough motive for murder? Susan looks into the range of suspects and their alibis and motives as the police still think it was an accident.
Having not read the first book, I liked Susan’s character and felt sorry for her having been through a divorce and trying to find a new direction for her life. I felt that there were a lot of characters: those in the village as well as Susan’s other friends and family. The plot is a little slow and Susan seems to chat to many characters that don’t seem to have a direct connection to the death.
Death At St Jude’s is an intriguing murder mystery.
December 29, 2024
Another great read by Mary Grand! I loved going on this second journey with Susan, and I was so glad that Robert and Mrs. Alice were there for the ride, too. I enjoyed this story as much as the first, and the details she put into her storytelling were fun to listen to.
One of the best parts of this novel (as in the last) was that Susan was not the kind of character you would imagine "solving a murder" or being thrown into such an intricate plot. She was a simple, middle-aged woman helping a friend, and did her best to put the pieces together as she discovered secrets and scandal.
There was a portion of the book where Susan was forced to deal with her own life... her past, her feelings, and what she saw for her future... this portion brought a couple of tears to my eyes, because I truly felt for her. Since it is my second book (back to back) with these characters, I feel like I understand her emotions regarding her ex husband and her potential beau. And, as a woman, it is definitely relatable.
The supporting characters in this one were all great as well!
I can't wait to get into the final book of the series! ...On to Book 3. 🔪🎄
One of the best parts of this novel (as in the last) was that Susan was not the kind of character you would imagine "solving a murder" or being thrown into such an intricate plot. She was a simple, middle-aged woman helping a friend, and did her best to put the pieces together as she discovered secrets and scandal.
There was a portion of the book where Susan was forced to deal with her own life... her past, her feelings, and what she saw for her future... this portion brought a couple of tears to my eyes, because I truly felt for her. Since it is my second book (back to back) with these characters, I feel like I understand her emotions regarding her ex husband and her potential beau. And, as a woman, it is definitely relatable.
The supporting characters in this one were all great as well!
I can't wait to get into the final book of the series! ...On to Book 3. 🔪🎄
December 30, 2023
I was caught up in the story of Death at St. Jude’s from the very beginning. Susan has lived on the Isle of Wight for most of her life, but after her husband divorces her, she wants a fresh start and moves to the other side of the island. She loves her new home and the village seems welcoming. One evening, she goes to the top of the bell tower with the local school head to watch bats. She heads home and later hears a heavy rainstorm begin. During the night, she is woken by flashing lights. A body has been found.
Susan has a strong need to find justice and unanswered questions, so she begins asking questions which make the villagers uncomfortable. Soon, she is getting messages that she and her snooping are not welcome in the village.
There are so many suspects and the mystery is well done. I liked the characters, especially Susan, who is finding her way as a single woman after years of marriage. I recommend this mystery for lovers of cozy mysteries.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
Susan has a strong need to find justice and unanswered questions, so she begins asking questions which make the villagers uncomfortable. Soon, she is getting messages that she and her snooping are not welcome in the village.
There are so many suspects and the mystery is well done. I liked the characters, especially Susan, who is finding her way as a single woman after years of marriage. I recommend this mystery for lovers of cozy mysteries.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC.
January 8, 2024
This is the second in the Isle of Wight series. Susan has moved from one side of the Isle of Wight to another, following her divorce and is gradually getting to know her neighbours in the village. She has joined the choir, and, following an argument at a rehearsal, a man dies, after falling from the church tower. After the victim's husband asks for her help, Susan sets out to investigate but there are those in the village that don't want their secrets uncovered and Susan finds herself under threat. She teams up with her friend, Alice, who is in a nursing home and uses the elderly lady's powers of deduction to help her solve the crime. Along the way, she discovers that almost everyone in the village has secrets that could have provided a motive for the murder. I really enjoyed this twisty tale. I found the characters believable and well-defined. Susan herself has a new possible love interest, Robert and that part of the story seems set to carry on in future episodes. I am keen to read other books by this author and will go back and read the prequel.
January 20, 2024
It was good to be back on the Isle of Wight, and with Susan the amateur sleuth.
Following her divorce from Steve, and an upsetting murder near her old home, Susan moves to another part of the island, the village of Bishopstone.
Susan loves the peace and quiet of the village, and also the community spirit, and gets involved in various activities. One of these was joining the church choir at St Jude’s. After practice one evening, a committee meeting was called but it didn’t go well and there was an altercation. Soon after, headteacher Lawrence was found fatally wounded beside the church.
Even though Susan’s good friend and ex-police officer, Robert, doesn’t think she should get involved in finding the killer, she still forges ahead as she feels her sleuthing skills may unmask the perpetrator.
Lots of secrets and lies in this book, and it was a fantastic read. I couldn’t put it down until it was finished.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
Following her divorce from Steve, and an upsetting murder near her old home, Susan moves to another part of the island, the village of Bishopstone.
Susan loves the peace and quiet of the village, and also the community spirit, and gets involved in various activities. One of these was joining the church choir at St Jude’s. After practice one evening, a committee meeting was called but it didn’t go well and there was an altercation. Soon after, headteacher Lawrence was found fatally wounded beside the church.
Even though Susan’s good friend and ex-police officer, Robert, doesn’t think she should get involved in finding the killer, she still forges ahead as she feels her sleuthing skills may unmask the perpetrator.
Lots of secrets and lies in this book, and it was a fantastic read. I couldn’t put it down until it was finished.
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advance reader copy in return for an honest review.
February 12, 2024
It was great to be back on the Isle of Wight with Susan and her dogs. Susan has moved to another part of the island and settling in just nicely, even joining the choir. We are greeted with meeting the other members of the choir and it sets the scene when there is a bit of an argument of sorts between Lawrence the school headmaster and Daniel the priest at St Jude’s regarding stopping funding. No I knew who was going to meet their untimely death right away, it was obvious and I guess writtten in that way deliberately, but what wasn’t obvious was who did it and their reason why.
There was several suspects from the get go all of whom had attended and witnessed the disagreement between the two men, but boy was I totally and completely wrong when all was revealed. I knew it wasn’t suicide, as did Susan, and in helping get to the truth she was meet with a lot of red herrings.
Death at St Jude’s was a great second book in this series, I am loving all the characters and especially rooting for Susan and Robert’s budding romance.
There was several suspects from the get go all of whom had attended and witnessed the disagreement between the two men, but boy was I totally and completely wrong when all was revealed. I knew it wasn’t suicide, as did Susan, and in helping get to the truth she was meet with a lot of red herrings.
Death at St Jude’s was a great second book in this series, I am loving all the characters and especially rooting for Susan and Robert’s budding romance.
March 5, 2024
Susan has moved into the quiet village of Bishopstone. She is fairly recently divorced after forty years of marriage & is coming to terms with living alone- well apart from her two dogs. In an attempt to make friends she joins the choir & finds herself on the choir committee. When the local headteacher. Lawrence, announces that the choir master's post at the school will not be continuing it causes a great deal of consternation- but not half as much as when his body is found at the foot of the bell tower! Although it looks as if it is either accident or suicide, but his wife doesn't believe it. As Susan has a bit of a reputation as a bit of an amateur sleuth she asks her to look into it.
This is a great cosy mystery with a variety of interesting characters, blind alleys, & a surprise reveal. I loved the setting & the characters. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
This is a great cosy mystery with a variety of interesting characters, blind alleys, & a surprise reveal. I loved the setting & the characters. Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
February 5, 2024
A close-knit community where they all know each other
An unexpected death they never expected to discover.
Susan is suspicious, she can't believe what they say
She's determined to uncover where the truth lay.
Revelations at the choir committee meeting
Causes altercations that aren't fleeting.
But surely no one would kill because of what was said?
It must have been an accident for him to drop down dead!
Only the widow seems suspicious and wants to investigate
Can Susan help reveal if there's a killer before it is too late?
With friendships tested and family dramas, too,
Susan will need Alice to help her see it through.
A brilliant read from Mary Grand, gripping and so well told.
With a great sense of community and characters young and old.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
An unexpected death they never expected to discover.
Susan is suspicious, she can't believe what they say
She's determined to uncover where the truth lay.
Revelations at the choir committee meeting
Causes altercations that aren't fleeting.
But surely no one would kill because of what was said?
It must have been an accident for him to drop down dead!
Only the widow seems suspicious and wants to investigate
Can Susan help reveal if there's a killer before it is too late?
With friendships tested and family dramas, too,
Susan will need Alice to help her see it through.
A brilliant read from Mary Grand, gripping and so well told.
With a great sense of community and characters young and old.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
February 11, 2024
I'm reviewing this book on NetGalley, for a book tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
I enjoyed the previous book that I read by this author, so I was excited to read this one too.
Something that I really like is when a murder mystery feels like a comfort read, but still provides a little uncertainty and a sense of unease that keeps me turning the pages. I think this book would fall into that category for me. I actually liked most of the characters, but the whole time I was reading this, I felt as though many of the characters were hiding something, or that someone could not be trusted. This is the type of book that would catch my attention, the type that I would pick up for a relaxing read, and the type that I'd need to finish in one sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, the publisher, and the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
I enjoyed the previous book that I read by this author, so I was excited to read this one too.
Something that I really like is when a murder mystery feels like a comfort read, but still provides a little uncertainty and a sense of unease that keeps me turning the pages. I think this book would fall into that category for me. I actually liked most of the characters, but the whole time I was reading this, I felt as though many of the characters were hiding something, or that someone could not be trusted. This is the type of book that would catch my attention, the type that I would pick up for a relaxing read, and the type that I'd need to finish in one sitting.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, the publisher, and the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
February 14, 2024
A good cozy mystery is an excellent way to spend some time in a lovely place, catching up with likeable and well rounded characters while you try to guess who-did-it. This is the synthesis of my ideas about this book.
A solid and entertaining mystery, full of surprising twists and turns, that kept me hooked and turning pages. I read it in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed it and loved the characters.
There’s all the potential to become a favorite series and I wish I could visit the places and meet Susan.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A solid and entertaining mystery, full of surprising twists and turns, that kept me hooked and turning pages. I read it in one sitting and thoroughly enjoyed it and loved the characters.
There’s all the potential to become a favorite series and I wish I could visit the places and meet Susan.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
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