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"Sister" Jane #16
Time Will Tell
“Sister” Jane Arnold must use her wits and savvy foxhunting skills to solve the mystery in this exciting new novel from New York Times bestselling author Rita Mae Brown. In this newest installment of the foxhunting series, "Sister" Jane Arnold will have to team up with her hounds to solve the mystery.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published November 12, 2024
80 people are currently reading
4394 people want to read
About the author
Rita Mae Brown
174 books2,231 followersRita Mae Brown is a prolific American writer, most known for her mysteries and other novels (Rubyfruit Jungle). She is also an Emmy-nominated screenwriter.
Brown was born illegitimate in Hanover, Pennsylvania. She was raised by her biological mother's female cousin and the cousin's husband in York, Pennsylvania and later in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Starting in the fall of 1962, Brown attended the University of Florida at Gainesville on a scholarship. In the spring of 1964, the administrators of the racially segregated university expelled her for participating in the civil rights movement. She subsequently enrolled at Broward Community College[3] with the hope of transferring eventually to a more tolerant four-year institution.
Between fall 1964 and 1969, she lived in New York City, sometimes homeless, while attending New York University[6] where she received a degree in Classics and English. Later,[when?] she received another degree in cinematography from the New York School of Visual Arts.[citation needed] Brown received a Ph.D. in literature from Union Institute & University in 1976 and holds a doctorate in political science from the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, D.C.
Starting in 1973, Brown lived in the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. In 1977, she bought a farm in Charlottesville, Virginia where she still lives.[9] In 1982, a screenplay Brown wrote while living in Los Angeles, Sleepless Nights, was retitled The Slumber Party Massacre and given a limited release theatrically.
During Brown's spring 1964 semester at the University of Florida at Gainesville, she became active in the American Civil Rights Movement. Later in the 1960s, she participated in the anti-war movement, the feminist movement and the Gay Liberation movement.
Brown took an administrative position with the fledgling National Organization for Women, but resigned in January 1970 over Betty Friedan's anti-gay remarks and NOW's attempts to distance itself from lesbian organizations. She claims she played a leading role in the "Lavender Menace" zap of the Second Congress to Unite Women on May 1, 1970, which protested Friedan's remarks and the exclusion of lesbians from the women's movement.
In the early 1970s, she became a founding member of The Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist newspaper collective in Washington, DC, which held that heterosexuality was the root of all oppression.
Brown told Time magazine in 2008, "I don't believe in straight or gay. I really don't. I think we're all degrees of bisexual. There may be a few people on the extreme if it's a bell curve who really truly are gay or really truly are straight. Because nobody had ever said these things and used their real name, I suddenly became [in the late 1970s] the only lesbian in America."
Brown was born illegitimate in Hanover, Pennsylvania. She was raised by her biological mother's female cousin and the cousin's husband in York, Pennsylvania and later in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.
Starting in the fall of 1962, Brown attended the University of Florida at Gainesville on a scholarship. In the spring of 1964, the administrators of the racially segregated university expelled her for participating in the civil rights movement. She subsequently enrolled at Broward Community College[3] with the hope of transferring eventually to a more tolerant four-year institution.
Between fall 1964 and 1969, she lived in New York City, sometimes homeless, while attending New York University[6] where she received a degree in Classics and English. Later,[when?] she received another degree in cinematography from the New York School of Visual Arts.[citation needed] Brown received a Ph.D. in literature from Union Institute & University in 1976 and holds a doctorate in political science from the Institute for Policy Studies in Washington, D.C.
Starting in 1973, Brown lived in the Hollywood Hills in Los Angeles. In 1977, she bought a farm in Charlottesville, Virginia where she still lives.[9] In 1982, a screenplay Brown wrote while living in Los Angeles, Sleepless Nights, was retitled The Slumber Party Massacre and given a limited release theatrically.
During Brown's spring 1964 semester at the University of Florida at Gainesville, she became active in the American Civil Rights Movement. Later in the 1960s, she participated in the anti-war movement, the feminist movement and the Gay Liberation movement.
Brown took an administrative position with the fledgling National Organization for Women, but resigned in January 1970 over Betty Friedan's anti-gay remarks and NOW's attempts to distance itself from lesbian organizations. She claims she played a leading role in the "Lavender Menace" zap of the Second Congress to Unite Women on May 1, 1970, which protested Friedan's remarks and the exclusion of lesbians from the women's movement.
In the early 1970s, she became a founding member of The Furies Collective, a lesbian feminist newspaper collective in Washington, DC, which held that heterosexuality was the root of all oppression.
Brown told Time magazine in 2008, "I don't believe in straight or gay. I really don't. I think we're all degrees of bisexual. There may be a few people on the extreme if it's a bell curve who really truly are gay or really truly are straight. Because nobody had ever said these things and used their real name, I suddenly became [in the late 1970s] the only lesbian in America."
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
October 20, 2024
Jane is enjoying the peace and quiet until a man 's murder is dropped on her lap. She is hoping to find clues that will catch the killer. This book kept me guessing.
November 16, 2024
Time Will Tell is another great mystery in Brown's Sister Jane series. These novels take place in Virginia in the heart of fox hunting country. "Sister" Jane Arnold is the Master of Hounds in a fox hunting club and the action always takes place in and around the hunt territories. Brown, a Master of Foxhounds, herself, combines her knowledge and her imagination to accurately describe the Virginia settings, the Hunt action and a great murder mystery. Jane may be in her 70's but it doesn't slow her down. This time she finds a valuable Rolex watch in the middle of a field and cant resist the mystery of how it got there. When a body shows up later, she is sure that the two are somehow connected. The best thing about all of Brown's books is that many of the characters are the animals. The horses , hounds and foxes always have their own thoughts to express. One of the things that makes this series unique is the colorful passages describing the action of the hunt. The reader feels like they are on the hunt themselves. However, these passages can be a double edged sword because they take you out of the action of the mystery. If you like animals and mysteries, you should enjoy this newest novel in the series. I received an electronic reader's copy of this novel from the publishers. However all opinions are my own.
March 19, 2025
Overall I liked the book and felt it had good suspense but the end was very sudden and pretty much took place in the last chapter. Sister was an interesting character and the matriarch of the Virginia fox hunting world. I enjoyed her perspective and warm character. The setting and ritual of fox hunting was enjoyable.
February 23, 2025
A library find.
February 2025.
February 2025.
October 13, 2024
This 16th book in the Sister Jane mystery series is yet another wonderful study in the finer points of humane fox hunting. The reader is proffered historic detail, descriptions of hunt practices, roles and manners of participants - all of which lays out the landscape of the fox hunt. One quickly discovers that there is a tremendous amount of effort and planning which goes into each hunt. The descriptions of the actual hunts are so beautifully detailed that one imagines that they're flying over fence and post alongside other riders. Add a a couple murders to the mix and you've got yourself a fun cozy mystery while hanging out with the hunting set. Kudos to Ms. Brown. If you are a fan of the traditional fox hunt, then this just might be the book for you.
I am grateful to author Rita Me Brown and publisher Ballantine Books for having provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Bantam
Publication Date: November 12, 2024
Number of Pages: 304
ISBN-13: 978-0593873823
I am grateful to author Rita Me Brown and publisher Ballantine Books for having provided a free copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, did not influence this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Publisher: Bantam
Publication Date: November 12, 2024
Number of Pages: 304
ISBN-13: 978-0593873823
August 10, 2024
I hate to admit I’ve never read Rita Mae Brown’s mysteries and she has been on my to-read list forever. When NetGalley gave me a freebie of Time Will Tell I jumped at the chance. Sadly, not for me, but could definitely be for you.
The settings, characters and dialogue all felt authentic…something that isn’t the case for a lot of cozyish mystery series. I loved the way she incorporated animals into the story. I was much more interested in the characters than I was the actual mystery.
Ultimately, the world of fox hunting just wasn’t for me. I didn’t understand a lot of the hunt terminology and the hunt scenes kept pulling me out of the story. Totally a this reader thing, I can see why lots of other folks would love these books.
The settings, characters and dialogue all felt authentic…something that isn’t the case for a lot of cozyish mystery series. I loved the way she incorporated animals into the story. I was much more interested in the characters than I was the actual mystery.
Ultimately, the world of fox hunting just wasn’t for me. I didn’t understand a lot of the hunt terminology and the hunt scenes kept pulling me out of the story. Totally a this reader thing, I can see why lots of other folks would love these books.
September 26, 2024
Not an unbiased review because I love all the regional history, animal narratives, interesting characters, and solid investigation plot lines characteristic of this author.
November 2023. Set in Virginia where the state sport is Fox Hunting, and the state dog is Foxhound. Fortunately, there is an explanatory cast of characters at the beginning because there are so many verbal animals as well as humans! Another positive aspect of this author's writing is that it stresses the importance of caring for wild animals as well as the household variety.
The first sign that there is something wrong is the discovery of a $42,000 watch just off a side road. Then come the bodies and the multifaceted investigations into a variety of felonies probably not accomplished by area residents. The animals have a lot to say about things and are instrumental in finding clues and even saving a life or two.
I requested and received a temporary e-copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 12, 2024
#SisterJaneBk16 #CrimeNovel #AmericanFoxHunting
November 2023. Set in Virginia where the state sport is Fox Hunting, and the state dog is Foxhound. Fortunately, there is an explanatory cast of characters at the beginning because there are so many verbal animals as well as humans! Another positive aspect of this author's writing is that it stresses the importance of caring for wild animals as well as the household variety.
The first sign that there is something wrong is the discovery of a $42,000 watch just off a side road. Then come the bodies and the multifaceted investigations into a variety of felonies probably not accomplished by area residents. The animals have a lot to say about things and are instrumental in finding clues and even saving a life or two.
I requested and received a temporary e-copy from Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Bantam via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Nov 12, 2024
#SisterJaneBk16 #CrimeNovel #AmericanFoxHunting
December 3, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
Time Will Tell is the 16th "Sister" Jane mystery by Rita Mae Brown. Released 12th Nov 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 304 pages and available in hardcover, 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.
This is a well paced, engaging cozy mystery in an episodic very-long-running series which will please current fans and pick up some new ones. Ms. Brown is a prolific, wide-ranging, versatile author with enough "serious" writing awards to do anything she sets her mind to, but happily, she seems to enjoy the cozy genre, especially the one with anthropomorphic animal characters. This series and her Mrs. Murphy series are -full- of opinionated animals, from cats and dogs to farm animals. For folks who loathe anthropomorphism and light paranormal elements, this probably isn't going to be a good fit.
It's the 16th book in the series, so readers who hop in mid-stream should expect some spoilers for developments from earlier books. The author/publisher have also helpfully included a glossary and list of characters with short descriptions to help readers stay in the story. That being said, the mystery itself is self-contained and resolved in this book, so picking through the series out of order isn't a deal-breaker.
The dialogue and writing are pitch perfect. Typically for Ms. Brown, the writing is solidly comfortable and engaging. Reading her books is almost like visiting with an old friend you haven't seen for a while; you just pick up where you left off the last time, even if you haven't seen them for ages.
Four stars, it's a well constructed cozy mystery full of characters from a world outside of the one most people inhabit (including many old-money wealthy FFVs who are crazy about American fox hunting). Bonus points for the author's managing to make her characters ethnically diverse, and not just pasted on, either. Many of the characters have faced and worked through part of their tragic shared traumatic past, from slave times onward and at this point there seems to be more good-natured camaraderie than any festering resentment.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Time Will Tell is the 16th "Sister" Jane mystery by Rita Mae Brown. Released 12th Nov 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 304 pages and available in hardcover, 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.
This is a well paced, engaging cozy mystery in an episodic very-long-running series which will please current fans and pick up some new ones. Ms. Brown is a prolific, wide-ranging, versatile author with enough "serious" writing awards to do anything she sets her mind to, but happily, she seems to enjoy the cozy genre, especially the one with anthropomorphic animal characters. This series and her Mrs. Murphy series are -full- of opinionated animals, from cats and dogs to farm animals. For folks who loathe anthropomorphism and light paranormal elements, this probably isn't going to be a good fit.
It's the 16th book in the series, so readers who hop in mid-stream should expect some spoilers for developments from earlier books. The author/publisher have also helpfully included a glossary and list of characters with short descriptions to help readers stay in the story. That being said, the mystery itself is self-contained and resolved in this book, so picking through the series out of order isn't a deal-breaker.
The dialogue and writing are pitch perfect. Typically for Ms. Brown, the writing is solidly comfortable and engaging. Reading her books is almost like visiting with an old friend you haven't seen for a while; you just pick up where you left off the last time, even if you haven't seen them for ages.
Four stars, it's a well constructed cozy mystery full of characters from a world outside of the one most people inhabit (including many old-money wealthy FFVs who are crazy about American fox hunting). Bonus points for the author's managing to make her characters ethnically diverse, and not just pasted on, either. Many of the characters have faced and worked through part of their tragic shared traumatic past, from slave times onward and at this point there seems to be more good-natured camaraderie than any festering resentment.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
January 8, 2025
📚 Time Will Tell ("Sister" Jane #16) by Rita Mae Brown 🦊
🎉 Oh my goodness, y'all! Saddle up because we're galloping into another delightful mystery with "Sister" Jane Arnold! 🐎
📝 A big thank you to Random House Group for providing me with this book for review! All opinions are my own, and trust me, I've got plenty to share! 😊
🎯 Key Themes & Elements
🏇 American Fox Hunting
🔍 Amateur Sleuthing
🐕 Anthropomorphic Animals
🤠 Virginia Countryside Charm
👥 Friendship & Community
👥 Characters
"Sister" Jane Arnold
Our 70-something protagonist who proves age is just a number! As Master of Hounds, she's sharp as a tack and twice as determined. When she finds a valuable Rolex watch in a field, her curiosity can't be tamed! 🕰️
The Animal Characters 🐎🐕🦊
What makes this series truly special is how the animals get their own voice! Horses, hounds, and foxes all have opinions to share, adding a unique and charming perspective to the story.
🌟 Things I Loved
♥️ The vivid hunt scenes that make you feel like you're right there in the saddle
♥️ Rich regional history and authentic dialogue
♥️ The seamless blend of mystery and animal perspectives
♥️ Diverse characters with depth and history
📝 Things to Note
▪️ Some hunt terminology might be unfamiliar to new readers
▪️ Hunt scenes can occasionally pull focus from the mystery
🏞️ Setting & World-Building
Brown's intimate knowledge of Virginia's fox hunting country shines through in every detailed description. The setting feels so authentic, you can practically smell the crisp autumn air! 🍂
💭 Final Thoughts
As a first-time reader of the series, I found this cozy mystery to be both intriguing and unique! While some of the fox hunting terminology had me occasionally reaching for the included glossary, the charming animal characters and well-crafted mystery kept me engaged throughout.
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars!
📚 Recommendation
Perfect for:
🎯 Cozy mystery lovers
🐎 Animal enthusiasts
📚 Readers who enjoy unique perspectives
📌 Additional Notes
The book includes a helpful cast of characters and glossary, making it accessible even for series newcomers like myself! At 304 pages, it's the perfect length for a cozy weekend read.
Thank you again to Random House Group for the opportunity to review this charming mystery! 📚🔍
#CozyMystery #BookReview #RitaMaeBrown #SisterJane
🎉 Oh my goodness, y'all! Saddle up because we're galloping into another delightful mystery with "Sister" Jane Arnold! 🐎
📝 A big thank you to Random House Group for providing me with this book for review! All opinions are my own, and trust me, I've got plenty to share! 😊
🎯 Key Themes & Elements
🏇 American Fox Hunting
🔍 Amateur Sleuthing
🐕 Anthropomorphic Animals
🤠 Virginia Countryside Charm
👥 Friendship & Community
👥 Characters
"Sister" Jane Arnold
Our 70-something protagonist who proves age is just a number! As Master of Hounds, she's sharp as a tack and twice as determined. When she finds a valuable Rolex watch in a field, her curiosity can't be tamed! 🕰️
The Animal Characters 🐎🐕🦊
What makes this series truly special is how the animals get their own voice! Horses, hounds, and foxes all have opinions to share, adding a unique and charming perspective to the story.
🌟 Things I Loved
♥️ The vivid hunt scenes that make you feel like you're right there in the saddle
♥️ Rich regional history and authentic dialogue
♥️ The seamless blend of mystery and animal perspectives
♥️ Diverse characters with depth and history
📝 Things to Note
▪️ Some hunt terminology might be unfamiliar to new readers
▪️ Hunt scenes can occasionally pull focus from the mystery
🏞️ Setting & World-Building
Brown's intimate knowledge of Virginia's fox hunting country shines through in every detailed description. The setting feels so authentic, you can practically smell the crisp autumn air! 🍂
💭 Final Thoughts
As a first-time reader of the series, I found this cozy mystery to be both intriguing and unique! While some of the fox hunting terminology had me occasionally reaching for the included glossary, the charming animal characters and well-crafted mystery kept me engaged throughout.
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5 stars!
📚 Recommendation
Perfect for:
🎯 Cozy mystery lovers
🐎 Animal enthusiasts
📚 Readers who enjoy unique perspectives
📌 Additional Notes
The book includes a helpful cast of characters and glossary, making it accessible even for series newcomers like myself! At 304 pages, it's the perfect length for a cozy weekend read.
Thank you again to Random House Group for the opportunity to review this charming mystery! 📚🔍
#CozyMystery #BookReview #RitaMaeBrown #SisterJane
November 20, 2024
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
Rita Mae Brown’s latest installment in the “Sister" Jane series, Time Will Tell, is a delightful blend of mystery, charm, and the unique world of foxhunting. This novel, the sixteenth in the series, continues to showcase Brown’s talent for crafting engaging narratives with well-developed human and animal characters.
The story begins with the discovery of an expensive watch abandoned on an overgrown path, a seemingly trivial find that soon spirals into a complex mystery. Sister Jane Arnold, the seasoned Master of Foxhounds, is drawn into the investigation when a young man is found murdered. With her keen instincts and the help of her loyal hounds and horses, Sister unravels the intricate connections between the watch, the murder, and the hidden secrets of her community.
Brown’s writing shines in her vivid descriptions of the Virginia countryside and the detailed portrayal of foxhunting culture. The interactions between the human characters and their animal companions add a layer of warmth and humor to the narrative, making the reader feel deeply connected to Sister’s world. The animals, particularly the cunning foxes and sensible hounds, are given voices that contribute to the story in a charming and insightful way.
The plot is well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing. Brown expertly balances the suspense of the murder investigation with the everyday challenges and joys of running a hunt club. The novel touches on themes of community, loyalty, and the passage of time, adding depth to the engaging mystery.
Time Will Tell is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries and those who appreciate a story where the setting and characters are as integral to the plot as the mystery itself. Rita Mae Brown once again proves her mastery in creating a world that is intriguing and heartwarming, making this book a delightful addition to the “Sister” Jane series.
For those who enjoy a well-crafted mystery with a touch of whimsy and a strong sense of place, Time Will Tell is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer, this novel is sure to captivate and entertain.
Rita Mae Brown’s latest installment in the “Sister" Jane series, Time Will Tell, is a delightful blend of mystery, charm, and the unique world of foxhunting. This novel, the sixteenth in the series, continues to showcase Brown’s talent for crafting engaging narratives with well-developed human and animal characters.
The story begins with the discovery of an expensive watch abandoned on an overgrown path, a seemingly trivial find that soon spirals into a complex mystery. Sister Jane Arnold, the seasoned Master of Foxhounds, is drawn into the investigation when a young man is found murdered. With her keen instincts and the help of her loyal hounds and horses, Sister unravels the intricate connections between the watch, the murder, and the hidden secrets of her community.
Brown’s writing shines in her vivid descriptions of the Virginia countryside and the detailed portrayal of foxhunting culture. The interactions between the human characters and their animal companions add a layer of warmth and humor to the narrative, making the reader feel deeply connected to Sister’s world. The animals, particularly the cunning foxes and sensible hounds, are given voices that contribute to the story in a charming and insightful way.
The plot is well-paced, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing. Brown expertly balances the suspense of the murder investigation with the everyday challenges and joys of running a hunt club. The novel touches on themes of community, loyalty, and the passage of time, adding depth to the engaging mystery.
Time Will Tell is a must-read for fans of cozy mysteries and those who appreciate a story where the setting and characters are as integral to the plot as the mystery itself. Rita Mae Brown once again proves her mastery in creating a world that is intriguing and heartwarming, making this book a delightful addition to the “Sister” Jane series.
For those who enjoy a well-crafted mystery with a touch of whimsy and a strong sense of place, Time Will Tell is a perfect choice. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the series or a newcomer, this novel is sure to captivate and entertain.
December 19, 2024
This novel is a marked improvement over the past several books in the series but still suffers from some faults that prevent it from rising to the level of the first 5 or so of the series. In its favor, there are many more accounts of fox hunts, describing the varied and beautiful terrain of Virginia, the changeable weather, and the effort of riding in a fox hunt that involves hounds tracking an actual fox instead of a "drag." As a MFH, no one knows better the rhythms, exhilaration and physical effort demanded during a hunt. The ending of the story and resolution to the mystery also was very strong, with a satisfying explanation for the deaths and clues discovered by Sister and her close friends. The establishment of the circumstances that lead to the deaths, however, was very complicated and as it involved entirely new characters, required a lot of narrative explanation that otherwise slowed down the pace of the book. Additionally, there are now too many regular characters and providing "speaking roles" for all of them just slows down of a scene, especially because many of the characters don't really add anything of interest or importance. What it does add is opinions, as everyone is used as a mouthpiece for Brown's own opinions on virtually any relevant social topic she wants to either support or criticize. These op ed pieces just distract from the story.
January 24, 2025
While not a bad book I've noticed that in more recent books the writing tends to be confusing. Throughout the book there were moments where the writing was choppy and sentences not put together in a seamless fashion. In some cases there were paragraphs where the subject switched in the middle and kept going rather than starting a new paragraph.
I have read every book in the series and this one had me confused about the characters. One minute a character is learning to hunt, the next she's riding with the wheel whip, and the next minute it appears she's actually a good enough rider to be in First Flight in a bigger club over an hour away from the local club.
Locations were also warped a bit with the author confusing Bull Run's territory with Jefferson Hunt's. I also found a tiny bit of confusion over the horses being ridden as she would switch their names mid hunt.
Lastly, I found there to be extra unnecessary information added that seemed to have nothing to do with the storyline. Things such as making a big deal over the cardboard business. At the end it had nothing to do with the murders/crime or if it did Ms. Brown never connected dots.
Overall it was still a good book once you got past the confusion and it doesn't change my fondness for Ms. Brown's books. I look forward to the next book in the series if there is a next one.
I have read every book in the series and this one had me confused about the characters. One minute a character is learning to hunt, the next she's riding with the wheel whip, and the next minute it appears she's actually a good enough rider to be in First Flight in a bigger club over an hour away from the local club.
Locations were also warped a bit with the author confusing Bull Run's territory with Jefferson Hunt's. I also found a tiny bit of confusion over the horses being ridden as she would switch their names mid hunt.
Lastly, I found there to be extra unnecessary information added that seemed to have nothing to do with the storyline. Things such as making a big deal over the cardboard business. At the end it had nothing to do with the murders/crime or if it did Ms. Brown never connected dots.
Overall it was still a good book once you got past the confusion and it doesn't change my fondness for Ms. Brown's books. I look forward to the next book in the series if there is a next one.
February 27, 2025
This is book 16 in the Sister Jane series. I love Sister Jane and all her friends. This was a little refreshing read from some of Rita Mae Brown's previous books, she was getting a little too forward with her own political views for my liking. This story was back to a good old fashioned murder mystery with all the talking horses and dogs ready to help solve.
Between organizing a joint session with her friends at Bull Run Hunt, leading her own Jefferson Hunt Club’s fox hunting season, and looking after her beloved hounds and horses, “Sister” Jane Arnold is as busy as can be. She and her friend Tootie Harris are helping to lure home hunt club member Cindy Chandler’s two escaped cows, Clytemnestra and Orestes, when they discover an expensive watch carelessly abandoned on an overgrown path. The last thing Sister needs is another mystery to solve, but when one falls into her lap, she can’t help but get involved.
Days later, a young man is murdered, one with seemingly no connection to the pricey jewelry or a life of crime. His mother is distraught, and Sister vows to find the murderer. But when hounds on the hunt discover a truck covered in blood – with no body in sight – she quickly realizes she’s in over her head with a cunning and clever adversary. Can she find the link and stop the murderer before they strike again? Only time will tell.
Between organizing a joint session with her friends at Bull Run Hunt, leading her own Jefferson Hunt Club’s fox hunting season, and looking after her beloved hounds and horses, “Sister” Jane Arnold is as busy as can be. She and her friend Tootie Harris are helping to lure home hunt club member Cindy Chandler’s two escaped cows, Clytemnestra and Orestes, when they discover an expensive watch carelessly abandoned on an overgrown path. The last thing Sister needs is another mystery to solve, but when one falls into her lap, she can’t help but get involved.
Days later, a young man is murdered, one with seemingly no connection to the pricey jewelry or a life of crime. His mother is distraught, and Sister vows to find the murderer. But when hounds on the hunt discover a truck covered in blood – with no body in sight – she quickly realizes she’s in over her head with a cunning and clever adversary. Can she find the link and stop the murderer before they strike again? Only time will tell.
March 21, 2025
I enjoy Rita Mae Brown books as a general rule and the Sister Jane books are always fun.
In this novel, one of the grand old houses is being renovated by Veronica and her sister, Sheila, who give women second chances to learn carpentry and refinishing work.
In the meantime, while the house is being renovated, Sister and her friend, Tootie, discover a very expensive watch where no watch ought to be. A very short time later, a young man from the community is found dead. The watch and the young man don't seem to have any connections to each other but Gray, Sister's husband, decides to wear the watch to some of the hunts to try to bait someone out with it (no one notices).
Upon the discovery of a second body, this one a young woman, Veronica and Sheila are spooked as the bodies were both located near their property. They might be willing to sell and Sister's hunt club are considering whether they should purchase it to protect the land for future fox hunting and other purposes.
When a third body is found, things really start heating up and life in Virginia is about to get more dangerous for everyone.
The Sister Jane books have talking animals (though they don't talk to people) and mysteries that are definitely cozy, though without the blatant disregard for the local law as are in most of these types of mysteries. I enjoyed reading this latest book in the series.
In this novel, one of the grand old houses is being renovated by Veronica and her sister, Sheila, who give women second chances to learn carpentry and refinishing work.
In the meantime, while the house is being renovated, Sister and her friend, Tootie, discover a very expensive watch where no watch ought to be. A very short time later, a young man from the community is found dead. The watch and the young man don't seem to have any connections to each other but Gray, Sister's husband, decides to wear the watch to some of the hunts to try to bait someone out with it (no one notices).
Upon the discovery of a second body, this one a young woman, Veronica and Sheila are spooked as the bodies were both located near their property. They might be willing to sell and Sister's hunt club are considering whether they should purchase it to protect the land for future fox hunting and other purposes.
When a third body is found, things really start heating up and life in Virginia is about to get more dangerous for everyone.
The Sister Jane books have talking animals (though they don't talk to people) and mysteries that are definitely cozy, though without the blatant disregard for the local law as are in most of these types of mysteries. I enjoyed reading this latest book in the series.
September 29, 2024
Another intriguing mystery that falls right into the lap of “Sister” Jane Arnold, when she unexpectedly finds an expensive watch out in an overgrown field. If you have read any of the other books by this author, you’ll know that “Sister” cannot ignore anything that is remotely resembles a mystery – even a lost watch. Soon thereafter, a dead body is found, and “Sister” is determined to solve the mystery of not only the abandoned watch but also the dead body.
There are numerous characters, as well as animals involved in this fast-paced, intriguing story. So many that at times I wasn’t able to keep track of everyone and the role they played in the story.
Although I have read one other of these books by this author, I forgot that fox hunting is a huge part of the story. I don’t know anything about this sport, or the terminology, so that was difficulty to follow. This will be the perfect book for anyone who is interested or participates in fox hunting. The sport is expertly weaved into part of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
There are numerous characters, as well as animals involved in this fast-paced, intriguing story. So many that at times I wasn’t able to keep track of everyone and the role they played in the story.
Although I have read one other of these books by this author, I forgot that fox hunting is a huge part of the story. I don’t know anything about this sport, or the terminology, so that was difficulty to follow. This will be the perfect book for anyone who is interested or participates in fox hunting. The sport is expertly weaved into part of the story.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.
December 31, 2024
“Time Will Tell”, the sixteenth book in Rita Mae Brown’s Sister Jane mystery series is not for readers that want fast paced mysteries. Instead it is a nice, leisurely read filled with lots of fox hunting. In fact, at first glance it seems like the novel is all fox hunting and very little mystery but the more you read the more you realize (and appreciate) how skillfully Brown weaves the mystery in with the fox hunting. The mystery isn’t one of those where you try and figure out whodunit – that’s pretty obvious early on – but one where you sit back and watch while Sister and her friends try to figure out what is going on. The mystery is a good one, realistic and a bit sad, and the part where the culprit is revealed was thrilling, had me on the edge of my seat, and if it were a movie I would have cheered at one point! Be warned that Brown’s novels have more realism than other mysteries (she even uses real people as characters in her books) so everything isn’t necessarily tied up in a pretty bow at the end of the book. Still, it is an enjoyable read and a fun way to spend a few hours.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
September 14, 2025
I have read all of the Sister Arnold series but it has been over 5 years since the last one. Even though Rita does something authors rarely do, she describes who each character is humans and animals, I still found it hard to follow the story in the beginning. Due to the story type you need to know the layout of the land but even knowing that, I found weather and land discussion boring in sections. Readers who are unfamiliar with the series will be bored and confused and will probably not finish the book. It's a good story and has ingenious crooks but if you took out all the weather and land descriptions, it would be a really short story. I was not satisfied with the ending, very unlike Rita. I will admit that I read this series in order over a period of a few months and then there were no more books. I started reading other authors and found this on the large print shelf last week. I figured that she had retired. She probably has and her ghost writer just can't match her caliber of writing. I gave it a 4 more out of nostalgia, it's more of a 3.25. Make your own decision about reading it.
November 12, 2024
Sister Jane Arnold is back again with another mystery to solve. This mystery includes stolen jewelry, an abandoned truck with blood inside and multiple dead people. Sister and her friends, human and animal have really stepped into a whirlwind of a mystery within a mystery.
Here is what I like about the Sister Jane books, the friendship of all the characters, the details included about fox hunting, and the conversations between the animals, hounds, horses and foxes. The author also included in this story some fascinating history about the area, the historic old homes and how the landscape of the area is changing fox hunting. Rita Mae Brown does an excellent job of telling a story, unraveling the mystery in a deliberate flow, clues unfold and the groundwork is revealed in a cunning manner. Smart, well-written, characters with depth, another thoroughly enjoyable read.
Here is what I like about the Sister Jane books, the friendship of all the characters, the details included about fox hunting, and the conversations between the animals, hounds, horses and foxes. The author also included in this story some fascinating history about the area, the historic old homes and how the landscape of the area is changing fox hunting. Rita Mae Brown does an excellent job of telling a story, unraveling the mystery in a deliberate flow, clues unfold and the groundwork is revealed in a cunning manner. Smart, well-written, characters with depth, another thoroughly enjoyable read.
December 26, 2024
Rita Mae Brown continues her series featuring fox-hunting Virginians who stumble on crime, murder and mayhem. First a watch, then a body, then another body, then another... Is there a serial killer or is this all connected to a different crime--robbery, human smuggling...? Of course it's up to Sister and her friends--most in their sixties and seventies--to solve the case, but there will be danger involved. For those who aren't familiar with the series or fox-hunting the author includes a cast of characters and a list of useful terms. What makes Brown's work amusing is the conversations between the various animals involved, as the story advances. The author spends a great deal of the book setting up the situation so at first the book is rather slow-paced, but it picks up speed nicely at the end. Tally-ho!
October 31, 2025
The cover of this book is so charming - a dapper fox consulting his watch on a lovely autumn day - that I had to pick it up when I saw it on the library’s “new fiction” shelf. I’d read Rubyfruit Jungle in college and while I don’t remember anything about it, I do remember liking it,so I decided to finally give one or Rita Mae Brown’s mysteries a try. Oh my lord! I have never been so bored or annoyed with a book in my life. Pages and pages of exacting details of horseback riding and fox hunting with very little actual character building, suspense, or plot development. Maybe I’m not the audience for this, but you might be if you are super into horses and hunting and restoring old houses. I forced myself to finish just to get to the satisfying conclusion of the mystery, but I’ve gotta tell ya - it wasn’t that satisfying. I’ll keep shopping for a mystery series I can get really into.
August 28, 2024
Time Will Tell is a cozy mystery set in fox hunting country. When a Rolex watch is the prelude to a body found on the side of the road, Sister is intent on solving the case.
It took me a while to find my groove into the story of this book. There were so many characters and so much was going on. This was my first adventure with Sister, and it seems it’s not the only book she has an appearance in. I think had I read some of the other books before this one, I’d have been less confused throughout. There is a helpful guide to the characters in the beginning which I found was a helpful reference.
I’d like to thank Random House and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It took me a while to find my groove into the story of this book. There were so many characters and so much was going on. This was my first adventure with Sister, and it seems it’s not the only book she has an appearance in. I think had I read some of the other books before this one, I’d have been less confused throughout. There is a helpful guide to the characters in the beginning which I found was a helpful reference.
I’d like to thank Random House and NetGalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 18, 2024
Rita May Brown, the well-established mystery writer, loves and is knowledgeable about fox hunting. Time Will Tell draws readers into that world that serves to embellish this outstanding novel. Sister Jane Arnold finds a watch, enough for her to wonder how it got there and whose it is. A body is found, and of course, the sister is compelled to find out the owner of the watch and if the owner is the dead body in the field. Time Will Tell is populated with numerous characters as well as animals. Fox hunting is part of the story, and at times, readers 'heads will be dizzy by the terminology and the numerous characters in this beautiful mystery. Time Will Tell is a book I recommend for anybody, especially people who like fox hunting, a sport that is uncommon in the United States.
December 31, 2024
This was my first read from this author and from this series. I had a hard time keeping up with all the characters. I am grateful for the list of characters and terms provided to help navigate the book. I found myself having to keep going back to keep track of who everyone is. At first, I was a little confused on the animals talking. I had no idea if they were talking amongst the other animals or to the characters. After a while, I realized what was happening and I wish it did not take me so long to figure out. The mystery itself was interesting, but I thought it got lost with everything else. I did appreciate learning about hunting as that is a new topic for me.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy.
Thank you to the publisher for the gifted copy.
December 1, 2025
Subtle as an anvil dropped on my head
Has Brown passed her sell by date? This novel was an old lady shaking her fist at the sky. I am an old lady who totally agrees with the author and I found it over the top.
The descriptions and plot were not fleshed out at all. I found myself frequently confused. Then we had too much repeated detail about some aspects of the story, the land, and the hunts. I love learning the history and culture of Brown's region of Virginia, but this time not so much.
The story itself was slow and hard to finish. I fell asleep listening toward the end and woke up
immediately after the denouement, thus spoiling the end. Not what I expect of Rita Mae Brown. Her editors show her no respect in allowing this to be published
Has Brown passed her sell by date? This novel was an old lady shaking her fist at the sky. I am an old lady who totally agrees with the author and I found it over the top.
The descriptions and plot were not fleshed out at all. I found myself frequently confused. Then we had too much repeated detail about some aspects of the story, the land, and the hunts. I love learning the history and culture of Brown's region of Virginia, but this time not so much.
The story itself was slow and hard to finish. I fell asleep listening toward the end and woke up
immediately after the denouement, thus spoiling the end. Not what I expect of Rita Mae Brown. Her editors show her no respect in allowing this to be published
November 3, 2024
Foxhunting and murder! This latest in the long running series-which to be honest might be most appreciated by those familiar with Sister Jane, her hounds and the sport-sees Sister Jane once again solving a murder with the help of well, animals. Know that humane fox hunting is key to the story and that Brown uses a lot of terms related to it. A found Rolex leads to the discovery of a body and we're off. The mystery isn't too twisty and almost takes a back seat to the Virginia hunt country atmospherics. There's a large cast of characters to keep track of (as well as suspects) but pay attention to the animals. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read for her fans.
November 27, 2024
Much as I enjoy this series (and enjoyed Time Will Tell), I’m a bit perplexed. I already returned the book to the library, so can’t cite page numbers, but I distinctly recall Sister setting a date for a joint hunt while on the phone with her friend from (I believe) the Bull Run Hunt. A bit later in the book they are again discussing setting a date, and on a third occasion a date is once again set. I’m not sure if I’m missing something that makes the repetition necessary (as a date was agreed upon in the first instance) or if, as in the author’s Claws for Alarm, the copy editor dropped the ball.
March 30, 2025
If you are a fan of fox hunting, and cosy murder mysteries, this is for you!
I didn’t understand enough of the terminology (& didn’t want to memorize the extensive glossary provided) to make sense of all the details of each hunt. Then there were a big field of people and dogs who seemed to have interchangeable names.
Usually I feel that people do not make enough use of commas. This book used them so extensively that I found it irritating to read. Why write “the sky, grey, was threatening” rather than “the grey sky was threatening”? This wasn’t just the way one character happened to speak, it was in every single paragraph.
No more for me from this series.
I didn’t understand enough of the terminology (& didn’t want to memorize the extensive glossary provided) to make sense of all the details of each hunt. Then there were a big field of people and dogs who seemed to have interchangeable names.
Usually I feel that people do not make enough use of commas. This book used them so extensively that I found it irritating to read. Why write “the sky, grey, was threatening” rather than “the grey sky was threatening”? This wasn’t just the way one character happened to speak, it was in every single paragraph.
No more for me from this series.
November 16, 2024
"Sister" Jane is again leading the hunts in her territory with all her friends and family in the group. This time Jane will lead the hunt while trying to solve at least two murders. The murders upset the locals as well as two new neighborhood women who are renovating an old home with the help of woman who are trying to turn around their lives. I enjoy reading Brown's mysteries because she gives history lessons as well as political commentary on our country while weaving a good tale. Thanks to NetGalley for the arc.
November 21, 2024
Rita Mae Brown knows dogs, horses, and fox hunting
And she tells a good tale. She has the way dogs behave down pat, and horses and foxes as well. As a Hunt Master herself, Brown effortlessly tells a story that gives the reader a whole lot of information about fox hunting in a way that is nearly completely painless, and if you really get into it, fascinating.
Her characters are modern Virginians, mostly of a certain age, but without many of the hard edged conservative beliefs and actions you’d expect.
The whole series is excellent.
And she tells a good tale. She has the way dogs behave down pat, and horses and foxes as well. As a Hunt Master herself, Brown effortlessly tells a story that gives the reader a whole lot of information about fox hunting in a way that is nearly completely painless, and if you really get into it, fascinating.
Her characters are modern Virginians, mostly of a certain age, but without many of the hard edged conservative beliefs and actions you’d expect.
The whole series is excellent.
December 14, 2024
Wonderful as always
Rita Mae, you always write entertaining, on the money smart, horse, dog, fix and cat knowledgeable books that are so thought provoking. I have stopped reading so many of my favorite authors over the years because of their blatant liberal asinine politics. I read to be entertained and educated. But educated in a way that I can live with. While you and I don’t always agree, I can always see your point. Thank you for remaining always my favorite authoress!! This book hit it out of the park. Cant wait for the next one.
Rita Mae, you always write entertaining, on the money smart, horse, dog, fix and cat knowledgeable books that are so thought provoking. I have stopped reading so many of my favorite authors over the years because of their blatant liberal asinine politics. I read to be entertained and educated. But educated in a way that I can live with. While you and I don’t always agree, I can always see your point. Thank you for remaining always my favorite authoress!! This book hit it out of the park. Cant wait for the next one.
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