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To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery
Cathy is riding high in her brand-new job at a (surprisingly bitchy) top London advertising agency working with best friend Rosa. But when Rosa’s pregnancy goes amiss and enemies sabotage her new career, she finds herself leading a chaotic double life of lies and deception, hiding a shameful secret from all, especially husband Declan who appears in the throes of a nervous breakdown.
Meanwhile she’s agreed to unmask the notorious Crouch End Creeper, a burglar terrorizing their neighbourhood. Little does she know that her meddling, assisted by fellow mothers (the Wednesday Once Weeklies) and the Neighbourhood Watch, will lead their dangerous opponent to murder. And that it's not only the tall elegant transvestite who is placing herself at risk...
Meanwhile she’s agreed to unmask the notorious Crouch End Creeper, a burglar terrorizing their neighbourhood. Little does she know that her meddling, assisted by fellow mothers (the Wednesday Once Weeklies) and the Neighbourhood Watch, will lead their dangerous opponent to murder. And that it's not only the tall elegant transvestite who is placing herself at risk...
300 pages, Paperback
First published March 24, 2014
17 people are currently reading
885 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Campbell
18 books213 followersEllie Campbell is the author name for two sisters, Lorraine Campbell and Pam Burks, who write together collaborating by phone and email from Surrey, UK and Colorado, USA. They have published six novels, How To Survive Your Sisters, When Good Friends Go Bad, Looking For La La, To Catch a Creeper, Million Dollar Question and Meddling With Murder. They also have published a collection of short stories - Love, Lies and Other Deceptions
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
February 27, 2014
Title: To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery
Author: Ellie Campbell
Publisher: Across The Pond Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"To Catch A Creeper" by Ellie Campbell was a very interesting mystery that was just a good that definitely kept you on the edge of your seat and turning page after page till the end. I couldn't stop reading this one!
This novel starts out with Cathy having a new job in an London advertising agency and having problems getting it together but with the aid of her friend Rosa... she is surviving. Then this story will take off with so many twist and turns it will almost leave you breathless just taking it all in. I don't want to leave out the laughing out loud that I did all the way through this entire read. How Cathy could get into so many situations that only this author could best give the reader a off the chart amazing well written read. We go from bad things happening at Cathy's job to her wanting to help a friend's hubby by catching the 'Crouch End Creeper.' Now before this will happen many other things will happens... Cathy friend Rosa has pregnancy problems...Cathy loses her job, her husband quits his job, next door neighbor (Mrs. Baker) has problems, then her WOW(Wednesday Once Weekly) group ...where a friend's husband who is a transvestite needs her help and this will lead the reader to just what this 'Neighborhood Watch' will do in order to catch this creep. However what all will happen as this group becomes involved... Will there be a manslaughter, murder, assault and/or burglary in this mystery read? Now, I will say I was a little taken back how secrets were so well kept especially for Cathy which you will be able to see as you read "To Catch A Creeper."
I found these characters were all simply well developed, well portrayed, colorful and even some were down right funny from the main and secondary ones...starting with Cathy, Declan, Hugh, Josh, Sophie, Rosa, Alec, Henrietta, Neil, Rosa, Mrs. Baker, Pimple, Isobel, Larry, Janet, Shilpa, Peter, Vet, Hank (Henry), Turk, Vivien, Honour, Alice to a few others only giving this novel one amazing and humorous read.
By the end of this novel will Cathy finally get what she wants to do with her life...will it be working again for Turk at the agency? What was up with the special ____ that Cathy received and why was that? Will Mrs. Baker be Cathy's first case in this HPWWOVCS? Well, this is where I say to truly understand it all you must pick up "To Catch A Creeper" to find out the answers to these questions and even much more that in the end you will see how this author brings out that these 'Couchenders' were truly a close knit family. Would I recommend this read? YES, you will find this novel one delightful good humorous mystery read.
Author: Ellie Campbell
Publisher: Across The Pond Press
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: 5
Review:
"To Catch A Creeper" by Ellie Campbell was a very interesting mystery that was just a good that definitely kept you on the edge of your seat and turning page after page till the end. I couldn't stop reading this one!
This novel starts out with Cathy having a new job in an London advertising agency and having problems getting it together but with the aid of her friend Rosa... she is surviving. Then this story will take off with so many twist and turns it will almost leave you breathless just taking it all in. I don't want to leave out the laughing out loud that I did all the way through this entire read. How Cathy could get into so many situations that only this author could best give the reader a off the chart amazing well written read. We go from bad things happening at Cathy's job to her wanting to help a friend's hubby by catching the 'Crouch End Creeper.' Now before this will happen many other things will happens... Cathy friend Rosa has pregnancy problems...Cathy loses her job, her husband quits his job, next door neighbor (Mrs. Baker) has problems, then her WOW(Wednesday Once Weekly) group ...where a friend's husband who is a transvestite needs her help and this will lead the reader to just what this 'Neighborhood Watch' will do in order to catch this creep. However what all will happen as this group becomes involved... Will there be a manslaughter, murder, assault and/or burglary in this mystery read? Now, I will say I was a little taken back how secrets were so well kept especially for Cathy which you will be able to see as you read "To Catch A Creeper."
I found these characters were all simply well developed, well portrayed, colorful and even some were down right funny from the main and secondary ones...starting with Cathy, Declan, Hugh, Josh, Sophie, Rosa, Alec, Henrietta, Neil, Rosa, Mrs. Baker, Pimple, Isobel, Larry, Janet, Shilpa, Peter, Vet, Hank (Henry), Turk, Vivien, Honour, Alice to a few others only giving this novel one amazing and humorous read.
By the end of this novel will Cathy finally get what she wants to do with her life...will it be working again for Turk at the agency? What was up with the special ____ that Cathy received and why was that? Will Mrs. Baker be Cathy's first case in this HPWWOVCS? Well, this is where I say to truly understand it all you must pick up "To Catch A Creeper" to find out the answers to these questions and even much more that in the end you will see how this author brings out that these 'Couchenders' were truly a close knit family. Would I recommend this read? YES, you will find this novel one delightful good humorous mystery read.
March 1, 2014
In Looking for La La Cathy was a housewife and she wanted to have a decent job and now she has a decent job in London advertising agency and she is working with her best friend Rosa. Rosa cover her in every possible situation, but she is pregnant suddenly she gets labor pains and must goes in hospital. Without Rosa Cathy must deals on her own. In the neighborhood some creeper terrorizing people and Cathy of course agreed to reveal who is hiding behind the musk. The creeper roams around masked as transvestite or maybe he is transvestite. Declan is been spouting since her colleague Hugh’s death.
It’s interesting to be back with my favorite character Cathy. Although she seems a bit disoriented I still enjoyed reading about her, I think that makes her more interesting. I laughed when she did not manage to work and she falls into certain situations and I cross my fingers when she had to get that account, which was so important. But I most like Cathy because she is so positive, brave and funny.
Rosa is really best friend and best colleague that you ever imagine; she is helping to Cathy unselfishly. I just want to have friend like Rosa.
Like I said about Looking for La La I will say the same about this second book: it’s interesting, intriguing with many surprises.
It’s interesting to be back with my favorite character Cathy. Although she seems a bit disoriented I still enjoyed reading about her, I think that makes her more interesting. I laughed when she did not manage to work and she falls into certain situations and I cross my fingers when she had to get that account, which was so important. But I most like Cathy because she is so positive, brave and funny.
Rosa is really best friend and best colleague that you ever imagine; she is helping to Cathy unselfishly. I just want to have friend like Rosa.
Like I said about Looking for La La I will say the same about this second book: it’s interesting, intriguing with many surprises.
May 30, 2014
In order if you have not read Looking for LaLa please GRAB it here Cathy is the funny and zany character from LaLa. When she starts working of course there is not love fest there. I mean every office has a psycho, a loser, a slut and a nut job right? I guess only mine then. Follow Cathy in the den of the beast! There are characters from LaLa, like Hugh, Sophie and Rosa. I will say that In the office you will laugh a lot. There are so many humorous quips. I felt I was relating more to Cathy here because at times she was VERY unappreciated. I think any mother who has to work and juggles feels like she is unappreciated. That is how I felt at times myself. I wanted to pinch Declan at times and hug him at others.
Follow Cathy through her zany and somewhat I Love Lucy type scenarios. She tries to find out who is burglarizing homes in her neighborhood. It is a cozy type mystery. People who are fans of Pamela Fagan Hutchins will love this series and these great authors.
I will say Cathy is lovable, enjoyable to read, and the book is light and oh so easy to love.
Follow Cathy through her zany and somewhat I Love Lucy type scenarios. She tries to find out who is burglarizing homes in her neighborhood. It is a cozy type mystery. People who are fans of Pamela Fagan Hutchins will love this series and these great authors.
I will say Cathy is lovable, enjoyable to read, and the book is light and oh so easy to love.
July 22, 2014
To Catch a Creeper
Cathy is riding high in her brand-new job at a (surprisingly bitchy) top London advertising agency working with best friend Rosa. But when Rosa’s pregnancy goes amiss and enemies sabotage her new career, she finds herself leading a chaotic double life of lies and deception, hiding a shameful secret from all, especially husband Declan who appears in the throes of a nervous breakdown. Meanwhile she’s agreed to unmask the notorious Crouch End Creeper, a burglar terrorizing their neighbourhood. Little does she know that her meddling, assisted by fellow mothers (the Wednesday Once Weeklies) and the Neighbourhood Watch, will lead their dangerous opponent to murder. And that it's not only the tall elegant transvestite who is placing herself at risk...
June 11, 2014
If you read Looking for La La, this is a sequel to that book. Cathy, an ordinary housewife, seems to get herself into some precarious situations because she is just a women who is either nosy or just seems to stumble on problems with her friends/neighbors. You can't help but laugh and relate to "everyday housewife-ness" as some of her neighbors are burglarized by the Crouch End Creeper. Much of this book is pretty funny and there are some laugh out loud moments. I love the Britishisms (I guess I made that word up) that they say in the book. Some of those are as funny as anything that Cathy "meant" to say. A great quick read by the sister writing duo, Ellie Campbell. If you haven't read Looking for La La, pick that one up first.
March 24, 2014
Wow, I had no idea that it will be such a great fun to read again about Cathy and all her accidents! While Looking for La La, the first book in the series, was perhaps not totally my cup of tea, I must say that To Catch a Creeper brought a smile on my face and I read this book within two days. To be totally clear, to read and enjoy this book you don't need to read Looking for La La (although you will enjoy this one, I'm sure), it can be read as a stand - alone novel.
Cathy, who we met in Looking for La La, dreamt of having a job, and not only staying at home, being a mum and housewife, doing her school runs, cleaning, cooking etc. And now she has this job, in an advertisement agency, working with her best friend Rosa, who is actually doing the bigger part of Cathy's job and always covering for her. But Rosa is pregnant and, after having a scare, must stay at home till the labour. Cathy must come to term with the job alone and well, surprise, surprise, she is so naive and easygoing that, after loosing a big client, she is suspended.
In the meantime there is again a mystery to be solved, namely there is a burglar in the neighbourhood and some suspect that it could be Cathy's friend Henriette's husband. So to clear his name Cathy must solve the case. Next to this, she has her weekly WOW meetings with her friends, she must cope with her suspension, not daring to tell anybody about this because everybody is very proud of her, thinking she won the account, her husband Declan is probably having a mid - life crisis, quiting his job and buying kitchen - oven for more than 3,000 pounds, the Tic Toc cat is always sick, she is becoming involved in her Neighbourhood Watch, and in clash between her neighbour and her daughter... Well, to tell that Cathy's life is an average, normal one is a big mistake.
I actually can't say more because I don't want to spoil the reading for you! But there is so much happening that you can't be bored or lose your interest for a single second. Some of the actions and situations are ridiculously absurd, but nevertheless they felt in some way real, possible to happen. Cathy has developed in my opinion, from the last book I remember her as little whingeing housewife, and now it looks like she has spread her wings, she's funny in a bitter way, she's clever, she's very nosy but it suits her:) Yes, she sometimes still behaves like a doormat but in those kind of situations I would behave the same, I think, I also can't stand to my own rights, am too meh for this. She is also very accident - prone and often put herself in very uncomfortable and awkward situations.
There is a brilliant cast of characters on this book, and all of them have their own stories, and all the stories are really engaging, interesting and bitter - sweet funny, really good developed and vivid. All of the characters found his place in the book and it wouldn't be the same reading without them, as there is so much action and many sub - plots. Of course Cathy is the main heroine in this novel but all the other complement her story and it wouldn't be such a great read without them. Declan with his craziness, Rosa with her sharp tongue, Cathy's friends who were really funny, the Neighbourhood Watch group, Mrs Baker...
While I found Looking for La La a little too forced, as if the author tried too much, Catch a Creeper is written in a brilliant, free, engaging way. The conversations are funny and interesting, the situations happening in the book are from time to time ridiculous but also great and I have really enjoyed this read. It was full of secrets, puzzles, twists and turns and unexpected situations, and full of surprises and I have really relaxed when I was reading it. And what's more, it made me laugh. So if you need a light, uplifting read, do not hesitate and buy your copy.
Copy received from author in exchange for a review.
Cathy, who we met in Looking for La La, dreamt of having a job, and not only staying at home, being a mum and housewife, doing her school runs, cleaning, cooking etc. And now she has this job, in an advertisement agency, working with her best friend Rosa, who is actually doing the bigger part of Cathy's job and always covering for her. But Rosa is pregnant and, after having a scare, must stay at home till the labour. Cathy must come to term with the job alone and well, surprise, surprise, she is so naive and easygoing that, after loosing a big client, she is suspended.
In the meantime there is again a mystery to be solved, namely there is a burglar in the neighbourhood and some suspect that it could be Cathy's friend Henriette's husband. So to clear his name Cathy must solve the case. Next to this, she has her weekly WOW meetings with her friends, she must cope with her suspension, not daring to tell anybody about this because everybody is very proud of her, thinking she won the account, her husband Declan is probably having a mid - life crisis, quiting his job and buying kitchen - oven for more than 3,000 pounds, the Tic Toc cat is always sick, she is becoming involved in her Neighbourhood Watch, and in clash between her neighbour and her daughter... Well, to tell that Cathy's life is an average, normal one is a big mistake.
I actually can't say more because I don't want to spoil the reading for you! But there is so much happening that you can't be bored or lose your interest for a single second. Some of the actions and situations are ridiculously absurd, but nevertheless they felt in some way real, possible to happen. Cathy has developed in my opinion, from the last book I remember her as little whingeing housewife, and now it looks like she has spread her wings, she's funny in a bitter way, she's clever, she's very nosy but it suits her:) Yes, she sometimes still behaves like a doormat but in those kind of situations I would behave the same, I think, I also can't stand to my own rights, am too meh for this. She is also very accident - prone and often put herself in very uncomfortable and awkward situations.
There is a brilliant cast of characters on this book, and all of them have their own stories, and all the stories are really engaging, interesting and bitter - sweet funny, really good developed and vivid. All of the characters found his place in the book and it wouldn't be the same reading without them, as there is so much action and many sub - plots. Of course Cathy is the main heroine in this novel but all the other complement her story and it wouldn't be such a great read without them. Declan with his craziness, Rosa with her sharp tongue, Cathy's friends who were really funny, the Neighbourhood Watch group, Mrs Baker...
While I found Looking for La La a little too forced, as if the author tried too much, Catch a Creeper is written in a brilliant, free, engaging way. The conversations are funny and interesting, the situations happening in the book are from time to time ridiculous but also great and I have really enjoyed this read. It was full of secrets, puzzles, twists and turns and unexpected situations, and full of surprises and I have really relaxed when I was reading it. And what's more, it made me laugh. So if you need a light, uplifting read, do not hesitate and buy your copy.
Copy received from author in exchange for a review.
March 27, 2014
Following on from last year’s Looking For La La, Cathy is back. Having discovered La La’s true identity in the last book, Cathy now finds herself in a new job at an advertising agency, working alongside best friend, Rosa. She hasn’t quite found her feet in the advertising world and Rosa is often covering for her. So when Rosa suddenly shows extremely early signs of labour and has to take early maternity leave, Cathy is left to sort out the pitch for the big campaign they’ve been chasing.
To add to her workload, her Husband, Declan appears to be losing his marbles following the death of a colleague, someone at work may be trying to sabbotage her, a crazy old Lady has moved in next door and there’s a new mystery to be solved following a series of burglaries by the new criminal in town; The Crouch End Creeper.
Cathy, who I can totally relate to, doesn’t know how to say No and also doesn’t quite know how to prioritise and therefore ends up focussing on solving the mystery of The Crouch End Creeper following a personal request from her friend, Henrietta who’s Husband has been picked up as a suspect. She finds herself the evening before the big pitch with zero ideas, despite telling her boss that she has everything under control.
The WOW club (Weekly on Wednesdays) come together and form the perfect pitch, Rosa gives her a list of Do’s and Don’t's to help her present it, and Cathy dons a pair of clear specs to make her look ultra intelligent. When she then finds herself in front of the marketing execs, wearing the wrong specs and with her presentation no where to be found, it becomes clear that her efforts have been sabotaged. Having been suspended from work, she arrives home to her Husband announcing that he’s quit his job and ordered a brand new oven and fearing she’ll tip him over the edge with her latest news, she begins a web of lies as she leaves the house every morning for “work” and makes excuses so she can spend more time at home. With nothing else to do with her time, she joins her local Neighbourhood Watch group and concentrates her efforts on catching The Creeper. But can she catch him (or her) before there are any more victims?
To Catch A Creeper is hilariously funny from the very first page. Cathy is a fantastic character, and it was great to introduce her to some new settings, both in the workplace and around Crouch End. She’s the same Cathy we fell in love with in Looking For La La, only with a lot more on her plate. Although some characters from the first book are no longer living in the area, many of the characters return for this story, including Cathy’s fabulously informed cleaner, Pimple. There’s a host of new characters – work colleagues, Neighbourhood Watch members and Creeper victims, as well as Mrs Baker, Cathy’s new next door neighbour.
The book follows much the same format as it’s predecessor; there’s a mystery character, Cathy tries to solve the mystery, the culprit brings themselves to Cathy in the ultimate showdown. But this is a totally different story, which I found much more entertaining and gripping than the La La mystery. To Catch A Creeper feels much more confident in itself, the writing flows a little better and there are many more comedy moments. I really liked Looking For La La but I loved To Catch A Creeper and I can’t wait for Cathy & co to return again in the future.
My Rating 5/5 ~ A brilliant, hilarious mystery with a fabulous leading Lady surrounded by a host of great characters. The pace builds as Cathy’s web of deceit grows and as she delves deeper into the search for The Creeper. Whilst you don’t need to have read Looking For La La before you read To Catch A Creeper, I would recommend it as I think the background will help you appreciate the characters a little more. However, I definitely think that this latest novel is the better of the pair.
To add to her workload, her Husband, Declan appears to be losing his marbles following the death of a colleague, someone at work may be trying to sabbotage her, a crazy old Lady has moved in next door and there’s a new mystery to be solved following a series of burglaries by the new criminal in town; The Crouch End Creeper.
Cathy, who I can totally relate to, doesn’t know how to say No and also doesn’t quite know how to prioritise and therefore ends up focussing on solving the mystery of The Crouch End Creeper following a personal request from her friend, Henrietta who’s Husband has been picked up as a suspect. She finds herself the evening before the big pitch with zero ideas, despite telling her boss that she has everything under control.
The WOW club (Weekly on Wednesdays) come together and form the perfect pitch, Rosa gives her a list of Do’s and Don’t's to help her present it, and Cathy dons a pair of clear specs to make her look ultra intelligent. When she then finds herself in front of the marketing execs, wearing the wrong specs and with her presentation no where to be found, it becomes clear that her efforts have been sabotaged. Having been suspended from work, she arrives home to her Husband announcing that he’s quit his job and ordered a brand new oven and fearing she’ll tip him over the edge with her latest news, she begins a web of lies as she leaves the house every morning for “work” and makes excuses so she can spend more time at home. With nothing else to do with her time, she joins her local Neighbourhood Watch group and concentrates her efforts on catching The Creeper. But can she catch him (or her) before there are any more victims?
To Catch A Creeper is hilariously funny from the very first page. Cathy is a fantastic character, and it was great to introduce her to some new settings, both in the workplace and around Crouch End. She’s the same Cathy we fell in love with in Looking For La La, only with a lot more on her plate. Although some characters from the first book are no longer living in the area, many of the characters return for this story, including Cathy’s fabulously informed cleaner, Pimple. There’s a host of new characters – work colleagues, Neighbourhood Watch members and Creeper victims, as well as Mrs Baker, Cathy’s new next door neighbour.
The book follows much the same format as it’s predecessor; there’s a mystery character, Cathy tries to solve the mystery, the culprit brings themselves to Cathy in the ultimate showdown. But this is a totally different story, which I found much more entertaining and gripping than the La La mystery. To Catch A Creeper feels much more confident in itself, the writing flows a little better and there are many more comedy moments. I really liked Looking For La La but I loved To Catch A Creeper and I can’t wait for Cathy & co to return again in the future.
My Rating 5/5 ~ A brilliant, hilarious mystery with a fabulous leading Lady surrounded by a host of great characters. The pace builds as Cathy’s web of deceit grows and as she delves deeper into the search for The Creeper. Whilst you don’t need to have read Looking For La La before you read To Catch A Creeper, I would recommend it as I think the background will help you appreciate the characters a little more. However, I definitely think that this latest novel is the better of the pair.
March 25, 2014
Having read Looking for La La many of the characters were back for a second time in this instalment, having loved them the first time around I was delighted to read more of their stories and follow the crazy antics that no doubt would happen in this book, just like the first. I have been waiting so long to finally read more about Cathy and her friends that I grew to love over the course of the first book, I was thrilled to get a copy.
I loved the beginning of this book so much, it made me laugh so much like the first book did, with the perfect beginning I was hooked yet again. With it's humour, drama and exciting adventures that happen throughout this book that has been continued from the first book. After all it follows the characters as they find out who the mystery creeper is and how they are going to catch them, that on its own is enough to create thrilling situations. Much has changed since the first book, Cathy now has a job in London where she works with Rosa, who is pregnant and not much help in the mission in unmasking the creeper, though she is there when Cathy needs her.
It has been a change from her being a housewife which Cathy was in the first book, to working in a business in London, though working with her best friend Rosa is something Cathy enjoys very much. Although, things start getting crazier her husband Declan colleague Hugh dies, and he seems to think that he is to blame and that is when everything seems to escalate making Cathy's life, crazy once again.
Although, things never do go to plan, there are many surprising twists in the book, including Cathy losing her job, Rosa who starts having problems related to her pregnancy that affect Cathy as well and what the Wednesday Once Weekly group have planned to find out the creeper is using anything they can. Each and every character has some importance to the story, which you will find out as you read it, they all have their own personalities that makes them even more realistic characters to read about.
It is hard to see if or when Cathy's life will slow down, so she can relax but things seems to keep her very busy even without a job to fill her time. Cathy knows she must help her husband, sort out her children and find out who the creeper is before they target yet another victim. It seems like a easy task but with the life Cathy has, it is anything but. It comes to a surprising conclusion that I wasn't expecting though after reading Looking For La La and To Catch A Creeper I know that anything is possible when it comes to Cathy and her friends.
To Catch A Creeper is another amazing book from Ellie Campbell and a great addition to A Crouch End Confidential Mystery Series. With it's humour, friendship, fun and situations that Cathy seems to get herself into, it is a definite must read from anyone who loves mystery's with laughter at every turn.
If I had to sum this book up in three words, they would be Hilarious, Captivating and Incredible.
I loved the beginning of this book so much, it made me laugh so much like the first book did, with the perfect beginning I was hooked yet again. With it's humour, drama and exciting adventures that happen throughout this book that has been continued from the first book. After all it follows the characters as they find out who the mystery creeper is and how they are going to catch them, that on its own is enough to create thrilling situations. Much has changed since the first book, Cathy now has a job in London where she works with Rosa, who is pregnant and not much help in the mission in unmasking the creeper, though she is there when Cathy needs her.
It has been a change from her being a housewife which Cathy was in the first book, to working in a business in London, though working with her best friend Rosa is something Cathy enjoys very much. Although, things start getting crazier her husband Declan colleague Hugh dies, and he seems to think that he is to blame and that is when everything seems to escalate making Cathy's life, crazy once again.
Although, things never do go to plan, there are many surprising twists in the book, including Cathy losing her job, Rosa who starts having problems related to her pregnancy that affect Cathy as well and what the Wednesday Once Weekly group have planned to find out the creeper is using anything they can. Each and every character has some importance to the story, which you will find out as you read it, they all have their own personalities that makes them even more realistic characters to read about.
It is hard to see if or when Cathy's life will slow down, so she can relax but things seems to keep her very busy even without a job to fill her time. Cathy knows she must help her husband, sort out her children and find out who the creeper is before they target yet another victim. It seems like a easy task but with the life Cathy has, it is anything but. It comes to a surprising conclusion that I wasn't expecting though after reading Looking For La La and To Catch A Creeper I know that anything is possible when it comes to Cathy and her friends.
To Catch A Creeper is another amazing book from Ellie Campbell and a great addition to A Crouch End Confidential Mystery Series. With it's humour, friendship, fun and situations that Cathy seems to get herself into, it is a definite must read from anyone who loves mystery's with laughter at every turn.
If I had to sum this book up in three words, they would be Hilarious, Captivating and Incredible.
July 8, 2014
Review first posted on my blog: http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
Cathy has turned her life around from being a stay-at-home mother and loving wife to having her own job within the world of advertising. Luckily, Cathy’s best friend Rosa is there to help her learn the ropes of the business. However, when Rosa has a pregnancy scare she is forced to stay at home until the labour and Cathy is on her own to figure things out. Yet, things don’t go exactly according to Cathy’s plan... Meanwhile she also has other things keeping her occupied, such as the mystery of the Crouch End Creeper, a burglar who has been robbing homes in Cathy’s neighbourhood. Together with her friends and the Neighbourhood Watch team Cathy wants to catch this burglar, but with everything going on in her life, it doesn’t take long before she starts losing grip on all the things she’s trying to juggle at the same time...
‘To Catch a Creeper’ is the sequel to ‘Looking for La La’ and even though I enjoyed the first part of the series, I definitely liked this book better. The reader is invited back into Cathy’s hectic life, but this time things are different because Cathy has a job. I really enjoyed this change in the story, also because it shows a development in Cathy’s character; I felt myself warm to her much more than I did while reading ‘Looking for La La.’ I loved revisiting the already familiar cast of secondary characters and the fun new characters that were added, such as Cathy’s neighbour Mrs. Baker and the Neighbourhood Watch team. There are definitely quite a few characters, but most of them do add something special to the story which consists of two main plotlines. I enjoyed both of them, and wouldn’t have minded if the book had perhaps been a bit longer so there ‘d been more space to go into detail and focus on specific elements of the story a bit more (such as Cathy and Rosa’s friendship).
This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I would personally recommend to read the first part as well, just so you are familiar with Cathy and the other characters and what happened to them before this particular story takes place. The book is quite quick-paced and a lot of things happen; your mind can’t drift off for even a second, and it kept me turning the pages which resulted in me finishing the book within a relatively short amount of time. ‘To Catch a Creeper’ is a light-hearted, quick, enjoyable read that will have you guessing with every page you turn; another fun Ellie Campbell novel!
Cathy has turned her life around from being a stay-at-home mother and loving wife to having her own job within the world of advertising. Luckily, Cathy’s best friend Rosa is there to help her learn the ropes of the business. However, when Rosa has a pregnancy scare she is forced to stay at home until the labour and Cathy is on her own to figure things out. Yet, things don’t go exactly according to Cathy’s plan... Meanwhile she also has other things keeping her occupied, such as the mystery of the Crouch End Creeper, a burglar who has been robbing homes in Cathy’s neighbourhood. Together with her friends and the Neighbourhood Watch team Cathy wants to catch this burglar, but with everything going on in her life, it doesn’t take long before she starts losing grip on all the things she’s trying to juggle at the same time...
‘To Catch a Creeper’ is the sequel to ‘Looking for La La’ and even though I enjoyed the first part of the series, I definitely liked this book better. The reader is invited back into Cathy’s hectic life, but this time things are different because Cathy has a job. I really enjoyed this change in the story, also because it shows a development in Cathy’s character; I felt myself warm to her much more than I did while reading ‘Looking for La La.’ I loved revisiting the already familiar cast of secondary characters and the fun new characters that were added, such as Cathy’s neighbour Mrs. Baker and the Neighbourhood Watch team. There are definitely quite a few characters, but most of them do add something special to the story which consists of two main plotlines. I enjoyed both of them, and wouldn’t have minded if the book had perhaps been a bit longer so there ‘d been more space to go into detail and focus on specific elements of the story a bit more (such as Cathy and Rosa’s friendship).
This book can be read as a stand-alone, but I would personally recommend to read the first part as well, just so you are familiar with Cathy and the other characters and what happened to them before this particular story takes place. The book is quite quick-paced and a lot of things happen; your mind can’t drift off for even a second, and it kept me turning the pages which resulted in me finishing the book within a relatively short amount of time. ‘To Catch a Creeper’ is a light-hearted, quick, enjoyable read that will have you guessing with every page you turn; another fun Ellie Campbell novel!
March 24, 2014
Originally posted on: http://lauraslittlebookblog.blogspot....
To Catch a Creeper follows on from Looking for La La which was out last year, so it has the same characters, with a few extras, but obviously the main character Cathy. Despite this though, To Catch a Creeper is a stand alone story, so you do not need to read Looking for La La first. This was a super quick read, read it in about a day.
A burgler is on the loose in Crouch End called The Crouch End Creeper and I liked the mystery surrounding who it could be. But I would have liked more of a focus on who it could be. I thought it took a background role in the story, rather than being the main focus. Also I know fiction isn't meant to be real, but there were just some things that happened that I couldn't quite get my head around. However I know this was meant to be a lighthearted read and it definitely achieved that.
Cathy is quite like me and is actually quite annoying and frustrating at times. She just wants people to like her, so she lets them walk all over her feelings and this isn't helped by the fact that she hates confrontation. It was weird reading it as it was like reading about me from another persons point of view and actually got me thinking about the way I act, so it was unexpectedly thought provoking in that sense. That said there are a great array of characters in this and they all seem to have more to them than meets the eye, so some characters you thought were genuine, turned out not to be and I liked this element in the story.
The writing and conversations are written in quite a quick-fire way, so sometimes it was easy to lose track of what was happening and I had to re-read a few sentences. Cathy clearly always has a million and one things going on in her mind, so this perhaps explained the unfinished sentences and jumping to another topic. However it definitely helped the book keep its fast pace and think it was part of the reason that I read it so quickly.
If you're looking for a fun, light, quick read, this one definitely fits the bill.
To Catch a Creeper follows on from Looking for La La which was out last year, so it has the same characters, with a few extras, but obviously the main character Cathy. Despite this though, To Catch a Creeper is a stand alone story, so you do not need to read Looking for La La first. This was a super quick read, read it in about a day.
A burgler is on the loose in Crouch End called The Crouch End Creeper and I liked the mystery surrounding who it could be. But I would have liked more of a focus on who it could be. I thought it took a background role in the story, rather than being the main focus. Also I know fiction isn't meant to be real, but there were just some things that happened that I couldn't quite get my head around. However I know this was meant to be a lighthearted read and it definitely achieved that.
Cathy is quite like me and is actually quite annoying and frustrating at times. She just wants people to like her, so she lets them walk all over her feelings and this isn't helped by the fact that she hates confrontation. It was weird reading it as it was like reading about me from another persons point of view and actually got me thinking about the way I act, so it was unexpectedly thought provoking in that sense. That said there are a great array of characters in this and they all seem to have more to them than meets the eye, so some characters you thought were genuine, turned out not to be and I liked this element in the story.
The writing and conversations are written in quite a quick-fire way, so sometimes it was easy to lose track of what was happening and I had to re-read a few sentences. Cathy clearly always has a million and one things going on in her mind, so this perhaps explained the unfinished sentences and jumping to another topic. However it definitely helped the book keep its fast pace and think it was part of the reason that I read it so quickly.
If you're looking for a fun, light, quick read, this one definitely fits the bill.
March 29, 2014
In one day, I went from halfway through the book to the end. This book is hilarious! I read Looking for La La last year, so I knew the main characters from that first book. You could read this as a stand alone, but I highly recommend Looking for La La!
Cathy is back to the working world, after having stayed home with the kids for years. She's working with a pregnant Rosa in the land of advertising. Cathy has pretty much no clue what she's doing, but it's all good. She's got Rosa. Well, Rosa has to go on bed rest, Cathy's got a huge presentation to make, and she's got someone out to get her who messes up that huge presentation and gets her sacked!
Her husband Declan is going through some kind of crisis and quits his job, so Cathy can't tell him she's been fired. She finds lots of ways to kill the time and while she's at it, she investigates the Crouch End Creeper. The Creeper has been burglering houses in Crouch End and one of Cathy's friends husbands may be a suspect. Or could it be one of her friends? Or maybe it's the new business owners. Cathy's friends are determined that she solve the case.
There is so much hilarity in this book, I just can't even begin to explain it! Cathy is a riot...not that she tries to be. She does ridiculous things and tells tons of little white lies that usually end up getting her into trouble. Her friends play great supporting roles in the story. All of the characters are great. Declan's crisis and how Cathy describes his actions to her friends cracked me up. I love her new neighbor and hope she is in some more of the books :) The creeper case was just an added bonus. Even without the mystery this book would have been great. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes fun chick lit with a bit of mystery.
I received a copy free for an honest review which I've given. This review originally appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.
Cathy is back to the working world, after having stayed home with the kids for years. She's working with a pregnant Rosa in the land of advertising. Cathy has pretty much no clue what she's doing, but it's all good. She's got Rosa. Well, Rosa has to go on bed rest, Cathy's got a huge presentation to make, and she's got someone out to get her who messes up that huge presentation and gets her sacked!
Her husband Declan is going through some kind of crisis and quits his job, so Cathy can't tell him she's been fired. She finds lots of ways to kill the time and while she's at it, she investigates the Crouch End Creeper. The Creeper has been burglering houses in Crouch End and one of Cathy's friends husbands may be a suspect. Or could it be one of her friends? Or maybe it's the new business owners. Cathy's friends are determined that she solve the case.
There is so much hilarity in this book, I just can't even begin to explain it! Cathy is a riot...not that she tries to be. She does ridiculous things and tells tons of little white lies that usually end up getting her into trouble. Her friends play great supporting roles in the story. All of the characters are great. Declan's crisis and how Cathy describes his actions to her friends cracked me up. I love her new neighbor and hope she is in some more of the books :) The creeper case was just an added bonus. Even without the mystery this book would have been great. I definitely recommend this book to anyone who likes fun chick lit with a bit of mystery.
I received a copy free for an honest review which I've given. This review originally appeared on my blog Christy's Cozy Corners.
March 24, 2014
To Catch a Creeper is the sequel to Looking For La La. After Cathy overcomes the La La fiasco, she finds her self on live TV; tongue tied during an interview: All through the interview I keep getting these uncanny impulses to indulge in a touch of Tourette's spouting obscenities while intermittently flashing a nipple, (5). I can totally relate to Cathy's nervous reaction; not so much the flashing but the uncanny impulses.
Cathy goes from an unappreciated housewife in Looking For La La to a businesswoman at an advertising firm in To Catch a Creeper. However, she's dealing with the absence of some of her best friends. One night Declan asks, "Heard anything from Gabby or anyone?" By anyone, he meant half of my close friends who seemed to disappear at roughly the same time towards the end of last year. Not exactly a case of one got squashed, one got lost, one had an operation. More one got sent to an asylum, one emigrated and the other disappeared to Cornwall in an attempt to get her teenagers off the weed, (12).
She's also dealing with sharks in the office tank. Cathy describes talking to one such shark, Vivien, as "someone gently stroking you with a razor blade. Superficially friendly but slightly terrifying as you never know when they're going to turn it sideways and nick you," (15). After her best friend Rosa (Raz) goes on maternity leave, Cathy is forced to fend for herself without any trustworthy co-workers. To make matters worse, her boss Turks gives her a high profile assignment that leaves her floundering.
To add to the mix, there's a burglar, The Crouch End Creeper, amiss in her neighborhood and Cathy is determined to find out who it is. How hard can it be? She did after all solve the La La mystery!
This is another perfect beach read and I think these novels would be excellent book club picks as well.
Cathy goes from an unappreciated housewife in Looking For La La to a businesswoman at an advertising firm in To Catch a Creeper. However, she's dealing with the absence of some of her best friends. One night Declan asks, "Heard anything from Gabby or anyone?" By anyone, he meant half of my close friends who seemed to disappear at roughly the same time towards the end of last year. Not exactly a case of one got squashed, one got lost, one had an operation. More one got sent to an asylum, one emigrated and the other disappeared to Cornwall in an attempt to get her teenagers off the weed, (12).
She's also dealing with sharks in the office tank. Cathy describes talking to one such shark, Vivien, as "someone gently stroking you with a razor blade. Superficially friendly but slightly terrifying as you never know when they're going to turn it sideways and nick you," (15). After her best friend Rosa (Raz) goes on maternity leave, Cathy is forced to fend for herself without any trustworthy co-workers. To make matters worse, her boss Turks gives her a high profile assignment that leaves her floundering.
To add to the mix, there's a burglar, The Crouch End Creeper, amiss in her neighborhood and Cathy is determined to find out who it is. How hard can it be? She did after all solve the La La mystery!
This is another perfect beach read and I think these novels would be excellent book club picks as well.
September 7, 2014
This is my third book by the writing duo Ellie Campbell and I simply can’t get enough of their books. One of the reasons for this is the fact they are hilarious and include loads of humor in and I simply love the their writing. It is always such a pleasure to sit back and relax with one of their books.
This time, the story focuses on Cathy, a stay-at-home-mom who’s recently found a job. The wonder-woman from Crouch End is trying to manage both motherhood and career. There are a lot of sharks at her kids’ school and at the office, too who can’t wait to see her fail. But there is new danger on the horizon too, it’s the Crouch End Creeper, and the police is helpless. This person, robes the houses in the neighborhood when the owners are not at home. So Cathy decides to take things in her own hands and catch this creeper.
When Cathy decides to play a private investigator, things get pretty rough. In the funniest way possible, this wonder-woman manages her advertising job, being a mother of two and coping with all their school activities, and now even saving Crouch End from that creeper. She puts herself in such ridiculous situations, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Cathy sure is a character that you will adore. She always messes things up, she can’t be trusted to finish a task, she always forgets meetings and things. But she is the sassiest character I’ve ever met, so up-beat and radiant.
To Catch a Creeper is the sequel to ‘Looking for La La’. If you enjoyed the first part, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one too. They also can be easily read as stand-alones so I really don’t see a reason why you shouldn’t check them out.
Original review is posted on This Chick Reads Book Blog .
This time, the story focuses on Cathy, a stay-at-home-mom who’s recently found a job. The wonder-woman from Crouch End is trying to manage both motherhood and career. There are a lot of sharks at her kids’ school and at the office, too who can’t wait to see her fail. But there is new danger on the horizon too, it’s the Crouch End Creeper, and the police is helpless. This person, robes the houses in the neighborhood when the owners are not at home. So Cathy decides to take things in her own hands and catch this creeper.
When Cathy decides to play a private investigator, things get pretty rough. In the funniest way possible, this wonder-woman manages her advertising job, being a mother of two and coping with all their school activities, and now even saving Crouch End from that creeper. She puts herself in such ridiculous situations, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud. Cathy sure is a character that you will adore. She always messes things up, she can’t be trusted to finish a task, she always forgets meetings and things. But she is the sassiest character I’ve ever met, so up-beat and radiant.
To Catch a Creeper is the sequel to ‘Looking for La La’. If you enjoyed the first part, I’m sure you’ll enjoy this one too. They also can be easily read as stand-alones so I really don’t see a reason why you shouldn’t check them out.
Original review is posted on This Chick Reads Book Blog .
April 14, 2014
This review was first published at M's Bookshelf - http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.be
Cathy and the other characters are introduced in Ellie Campbell's first novel Looking for La La. Although it's not necessary to read both books, I do recommend it. I don't think I would have understood the characters and the situation as well if I hadn't read Looking for La La first.
I really enjoyed reading Looking for La La [you can find my 5 STAR review here or on my blog: M's Bookshelf]. I struggled with Cathy, the main character, but I was very relieved it didn't stop me from really enjoying the book... I'm afraid I cannot say the same about To Catch a Creeper. I got really annoyed with Cathy and I had a hard time connecting with her. I felt she was even more superficial, naive and socially awkward than she seemed to be in book #1.
In Looking for La La Cathy struggles with finding her own identity again. After being a stay at home mum for so many years, she seems to have lost her true self. She was desperate to find herself again as an individual, and how she fit in her marriage. In To Catch A Creeper she seems to have succeeded most of that. Until everything, of course, goes completely wrong. Her "2 day old career" is falling apart and she no longer recognizes the man she married. The story has a lot of twists and again you catch a glimpse of 'day to day life' in a London suburb. Cathy's friends are a very diverse, very mixed group which adds to the story because they all bring something very different. I would have liked to have read more about her relationships with Dec. and Rosa. The story hints at their problems and how these relationships will eventually evolve, but Cathy's (ridiculous?) search for the Creeper overshadows both.
Cathy and the other characters are introduced in Ellie Campbell's first novel Looking for La La. Although it's not necessary to read both books, I do recommend it. I don't think I would have understood the characters and the situation as well if I hadn't read Looking for La La first.
I really enjoyed reading Looking for La La [you can find my 5 STAR review here or on my blog: M's Bookshelf]. I struggled with Cathy, the main character, but I was very relieved it didn't stop me from really enjoying the book... I'm afraid I cannot say the same about To Catch a Creeper. I got really annoyed with Cathy and I had a hard time connecting with her. I felt she was even more superficial, naive and socially awkward than she seemed to be in book #1.
In Looking for La La Cathy struggles with finding her own identity again. After being a stay at home mum for so many years, she seems to have lost her true self. She was desperate to find herself again as an individual, and how she fit in her marriage. In To Catch A Creeper she seems to have succeeded most of that. Until everything, of course, goes completely wrong. Her "2 day old career" is falling apart and she no longer recognizes the man she married. The story has a lot of twists and again you catch a glimpse of 'day to day life' in a London suburb. Cathy's friends are a very diverse, very mixed group which adds to the story because they all bring something very different. I would have liked to have read more about her relationships with Dec. and Rosa. The story hints at their problems and how these relationships will eventually evolve, but Cathy's (ridiculous?) search for the Creeper overshadows both.
April 4, 2014
Sister team Pam Burks and Lorraine Campbell have done it again. “To Catch a Creeper” is the best of British comedy. For the reader’s information, the authors gifted this novel to me. I liked the novel so much that immediately after reading, I bought a copy as a gift for a friend. For readers wondering how the authors would progress with the same characters from the wonderfully wacky “Looking for La La,” they do so keeping Cathy in her element while expanding her world.
For those of us who think we know Cathy, “To Catch a Creeper” adds a new dimension. Touted as a woman put together in the wake of the notoriety from her last case, we know Cathy is far from a woman who has all of the boxes of her life ticked. She may not seem to the reader to be a woman to whom a person should turn for help but she inspires confidence from her friends and she simply cannot say no when they embroil here in their complicated lives.
As with “Looking for LaLa,” this novel is written with consistency and flow not indicative of a writing team. The main thrusts of the story have to do with the pregnancy of Cathy’s friend Rosa and the solving of the case of the Crouch End Creeper. This storytelling is delightfully schizophrenic while maintaining the reader’s attention and never leaving us behind. With lines going out everywhere the exaggerated reality of Cathy’s situation had me laughing beginning to end. In many cases, Cathy is truly her own worst enemy.
While it would be a shame for readers not to enjoy the wonderful “Looking for LaLa” before reading “To Catch a Creeper,” it is certainly not necessary to do so. Cathy’s second misadventures work well as a stand-alone read. Pick it up today!
For those of us who think we know Cathy, “To Catch a Creeper” adds a new dimension. Touted as a woman put together in the wake of the notoriety from her last case, we know Cathy is far from a woman who has all of the boxes of her life ticked. She may not seem to the reader to be a woman to whom a person should turn for help but she inspires confidence from her friends and she simply cannot say no when they embroil here in their complicated lives.
As with “Looking for LaLa,” this novel is written with consistency and flow not indicative of a writing team. The main thrusts of the story have to do with the pregnancy of Cathy’s friend Rosa and the solving of the case of the Crouch End Creeper. This storytelling is delightfully schizophrenic while maintaining the reader’s attention and never leaving us behind. With lines going out everywhere the exaggerated reality of Cathy’s situation had me laughing beginning to end. In many cases, Cathy is truly her own worst enemy.
While it would be a shame for readers not to enjoy the wonderful “Looking for LaLa” before reading “To Catch a Creeper,” it is certainly not necessary to do so. Cathy’s second misadventures work well as a stand-alone read. Pick it up today!
April 16, 2014
I had already read and loved Looking for La La so was absolutely delighted when I was asked to read and review the follow up To Catch a Creeper. Although you will have a better understanding of Cathy and her past if you have read the first book, it doesn’t matter if you haven’t as this can be read as a standalone. We rejoin Cathy as she finally appears to have her life on track with a new career and her group of friends around her, not to mention husband Dec. However, this is Cathyland and things won’t stay calm and quiet for long, pretty soon she is having problems at work and getting roped into solving the mystery of the identity of The Creeper, the latest burglar in town.
On balance, I think I would have preferred it if this story concentrated on her career problems and relationships with her family and husband. Part of the charm of Cathy is her very normalness, she could be your annoying sister, friend or neighbour, and I think when you introduce one mystery after another, it quickly turns a little farcical and you lose that little something which makes her believable.
It is a fairly quick, enjoyable light read that is very witty in places, but I didn’t love it the same way that I loved La La, and I think the problem is that more of Cathy is just a little too much. She is like one of those frenetic party guests who is lively, noisy, bubbly, full of tall stories and dramas, a great laugh to be with, but once you have closed the door on that person, you just breathe a huge sigh of relief and thank Whoever that they have gone home. On the whole though, and reading this book as a work on its own, it is not a bad read at all, a very entertaining way to spend a lazy day
On balance, I think I would have preferred it if this story concentrated on her career problems and relationships with her family and husband. Part of the charm of Cathy is her very normalness, she could be your annoying sister, friend or neighbour, and I think when you introduce one mystery after another, it quickly turns a little farcical and you lose that little something which makes her believable.
It is a fairly quick, enjoyable light read that is very witty in places, but I didn’t love it the same way that I loved La La, and I think the problem is that more of Cathy is just a little too much. She is like one of those frenetic party guests who is lively, noisy, bubbly, full of tall stories and dramas, a great laugh to be with, but once you have closed the door on that person, you just breathe a huge sigh of relief and thank Whoever that they have gone home. On the whole though, and reading this book as a work on its own, it is not a bad read at all, a very entertaining way to spend a lazy day
June 7, 2014
3.5 stars
This book is from Cathy’s point of view, and is in her late 30s, and works as a stay at home mum. For just over 6 years she has been taking care of two primary school aged children. She gets a great job through her friend in an office doing marketing. But will she be able to do well? After all, she knows nothing about computers...
Then, she She then becomes suspended, and uses her time to catch the creeper...
It is amusing for anyone that has the experience of children and not working for a while, and those who fall behind with current trends in computing etc.
TCaC has great scenarios that I could relate to, for example going to her child's friends party, and her child introducing her enthusiastically. Which made her feel that she had been not a very good mother, as she had not been around enough.
Also, she didn't tell her friend what it was like to have a baby, and then her friend was upset that she didn't tell her all the gory details about childbirth and rearing. Her friend then
It was well written with no plot holes.
I would recommend to others who are in their 30's to 60's.
My daughter and I received a copy of To Catch A Creeper in exchange for an honest review
This book is from Cathy’s point of view, and is in her late 30s, and works as a stay at home mum. For just over 6 years she has been taking care of two primary school aged children. She gets a great job through her friend in an office doing marketing. But will she be able to do well? After all, she knows nothing about computers...
Then, she She then becomes suspended, and uses her time to catch the creeper...
It is amusing for anyone that has the experience of children and not working for a while, and those who fall behind with current trends in computing etc.
TCaC has great scenarios that I could relate to, for example going to her child's friends party, and her child introducing her enthusiastically. Which made her feel that she had been not a very good mother, as she had not been around enough.
Also, she didn't tell her friend what it was like to have a baby, and then her friend was upset that she didn't tell her all the gory details about childbirth and rearing. Her friend then
It was well written with no plot holes.
I would recommend to others who are in their 30's to 60's.
My daughter and I received a copy of To Catch A Creeper in exchange for an honest review
May 31, 2014
I generally do not read other reviews before writing my own, but in reading “To Catch a Creeper,” by Ellie Campbell, I was so confused, I had to see what others had written. And then I saw it - the words ,”standalone sequel.” Thank goodness these characters and the basic details of their lives had already been introduced before in Campbell’s novel, “Looking for La La.” Starting with the sequel had produced an experience akin to stepping into a room where a rollicking conversation peppered with inside jokes was already well underway. Though I argue the aptness of the adjective“standalone”, I eventually was able to relax and enjoy Campbell’s witty style of writing. The actions and attitudes of the central character, Cath, and those of her entourage of friends and family often required me to put common sense on hold, but such is often the case with British humor, which I tend to adore. While ,To Catch a Creeper,” may not be the most crafty of whodunits (I guessed the identity of the creeper when the character was introduced), it is enjoyable summer beach read. I was slightly awed to learn “Ellie Campbell” is actually the pseudonym for sisters sisters, Pam Burks and Lorraine Campbell. The two construct their books mainly through phone calls and Skype sessions between their respective homes in Reigate, Surrey and Boulder Colorado. Often, I struggle to put together my own thoughts when I am writing; I cannot imaging trying to merge two minds to develop such a tidy plot with very few loose ends left to niggle at the mind of the reader.
August 25, 2014
I was lucky enough to receive this book for free through Goodreads First Reads.
Cathy has left the housewife life behind and has got a new job at a top London advertising agency working alongside her best friend Rosa. When Rosa goes on maternity leave Cathy is left to fend for herself. Not only has she got to deal with workplace politics, catty co-workers & a possibly crazy husband, there's a creeper in Crouch End and she's determined to find out who it is!
This was such a fun, refreshing read! I haven't read Looking for La La (Which I hope to fix) but I had no problem following the story here. Everything is set up so you have an easy understanding of what's going on.
I thought Cathy was hilarious! She's a little bonkers but completely lovable. Her 'little white lies' had me cracking up.. i.e. Jaffa, haha. I especially loved the whole going to work charade & pretty much every single interaction she had with her next door neighbour.
All the other characters were equally endearing. Pimple, the always in the know cleaner who is a wonderful friend to Cathy. Rosa, the equally zany best friend. Declan, Cathy's husband who seems to losing his mind & Mrs Baker, the next door neighbour who was so incredibly funny!
This book had me laughing out loud many times, which rewarded me with some very strange looks from family members.
If you want a thrilling, hilarious, entertaining & highly enjoyable book to read then look no further, To Catch A Creeper is perfect for you.
Cathy has left the housewife life behind and has got a new job at a top London advertising agency working alongside her best friend Rosa. When Rosa goes on maternity leave Cathy is left to fend for herself. Not only has she got to deal with workplace politics, catty co-workers & a possibly crazy husband, there's a creeper in Crouch End and she's determined to find out who it is!
This was such a fun, refreshing read! I haven't read Looking for La La (Which I hope to fix) but I had no problem following the story here. Everything is set up so you have an easy understanding of what's going on.
I thought Cathy was hilarious! She's a little bonkers but completely lovable. Her 'little white lies' had me cracking up.. i.e. Jaffa, haha. I especially loved the whole going to work charade & pretty much every single interaction she had with her next door neighbour.
All the other characters were equally endearing. Pimple, the always in the know cleaner who is a wonderful friend to Cathy. Rosa, the equally zany best friend. Declan, Cathy's husband who seems to losing his mind & Mrs Baker, the next door neighbour who was so incredibly funny!
This book had me laughing out loud many times, which rewarded me with some very strange looks from family members.
If you want a thrilling, hilarious, entertaining & highly enjoyable book to read then look no further, To Catch A Creeper is perfect for you.
April 15, 2014
This is the third book I have read by the dynamic duo of Ellie Campbell. Each one has a great sense of humor and a wonderful story to share. To Catch a Creeper had me laughing out loud and giggling, when I had to try to be quieter.
Cathy is absolutely hilarious. Even when she is hiding her secrets from her husband and living a rather odd life she kept the laughs coming, although I am not sure she always saw the humor in what was going on. I am not sure I could have handled all that Cathy had on her plate, every single day. She went to work, which was new to her after being a stay at home mom, she dealt with the kids, and she dealt with her husband, not to mention all the household chores that have to be done. Then add the Creeper to her life and things get very interesting very fast. Almost spiraling out of control.
Her WOW’s are a great group of secondary characters. They managed to keep her in line, some of the time, to call her out on her misgivings, help her keep her secrets, and catch the Creeper. These are some ladies that everyone should have in their lives. They also kept me in stitches, laughing and covering my mouth in shock at some of the conversations they had and the trouble they got into.
I recommend all of Ellie Campbell’s books, but this one is definitely high on my list of books that I absolutely loved.
Cathy is absolutely hilarious. Even when she is hiding her secrets from her husband and living a rather odd life she kept the laughs coming, although I am not sure she always saw the humor in what was going on. I am not sure I could have handled all that Cathy had on her plate, every single day. She went to work, which was new to her after being a stay at home mom, she dealt with the kids, and she dealt with her husband, not to mention all the household chores that have to be done. Then add the Creeper to her life and things get very interesting very fast. Almost spiraling out of control.
Her WOW’s are a great group of secondary characters. They managed to keep her in line, some of the time, to call her out on her misgivings, help her keep her secrets, and catch the Creeper. These are some ladies that everyone should have in their lives. They also kept me in stitches, laughing and covering my mouth in shock at some of the conversations they had and the trouble they got into.
I recommend all of Ellie Campbell’s books, but this one is definitely high on my list of books that I absolutely loved.
June 3, 2014
Ellie Campbell’s sequel to Looking For La La contains just the right blend of humor, mystery and drama, complimented with characters that will pull you into the story and keep you entertained.
Cathy is now working for an Advertising Firm delving into an unknown world of office politics and catty co-workers. She works alongside her best friend Rosa and feels comfortable having Rosa guide and teach her the advertising business. When Rosa leaves to have her baby Cathy is left to fend for herself. She is given a project to work on that is important to the firm and is totally out of her element. With her work struggles combined with a burglar on the loose in her town she is determined to do her job well and catch The Crouch End Creeper.
I love the way that the characters in this story are introduced and the depth of realism they each portray. The characters are interesting and all have a story of their own which lends to the atmosphere of the story.
The writing style is crisp and clear as the story unfolds and has a special quality that will endear you to the story and the characters. It is bursting with the right blend of humor and mystery which kept me entertained and immersed in the story.
I recommend this book to all readers who like a fun and captivating read that is entertaining yet mysterious at the same time!
Cathy is now working for an Advertising Firm delving into an unknown world of office politics and catty co-workers. She works alongside her best friend Rosa and feels comfortable having Rosa guide and teach her the advertising business. When Rosa leaves to have her baby Cathy is left to fend for herself. She is given a project to work on that is important to the firm and is totally out of her element. With her work struggles combined with a burglar on the loose in her town she is determined to do her job well and catch The Crouch End Creeper.
I love the way that the characters in this story are introduced and the depth of realism they each portray. The characters are interesting and all have a story of their own which lends to the atmosphere of the story.
The writing style is crisp and clear as the story unfolds and has a special quality that will endear you to the story and the characters. It is bursting with the right blend of humor and mystery which kept me entertained and immersed in the story.
I recommend this book to all readers who like a fun and captivating read that is entertaining yet mysterious at the same time!
February 10, 2015
Hilarious! Ellie Campbell’s wit and sharp prose continue where they left off in Looking For La La. Although Cathy is still our main girl, I’m sure readers can enjoy this as a standalone novel.
Faced with bitchy new colleagues, a husband having a nervous breakdown, a bonkers neighbour, two kids, fraught friends and a sick cat, the last thing Cathy needs on her plate is a neighbourhood thief, who she’s been tasked with trying to track down.
Trying to keep so many balls in the air was never going to work out and as they tumble down around her, Cathy falls back on the one thing she’ll never lose: her eye for trouble.
This is a super fun book, which romps its way through Crouch End: London’s new capital of crime and intrigue. Aside from Cathy’s amazing and endearing ability to get things wrong, Campbell presents us with a whole cast of colourful, kooky characters, most of whom love Cathy and make plenty of their own errors along the way. The story is full of funny surprises, which will have you honking out loud like a goose.
I did wish that Cathy and Declan’s relationship was given a little more TLC throughout the story as I couldn’t quite understand what kept them together, but I have got a bit of a girl crush on Cathy so, who knows, maybe I’m just jealous…
review by Nikki Mason on behalf of BestChickLit.com
Faced with bitchy new colleagues, a husband having a nervous breakdown, a bonkers neighbour, two kids, fraught friends and a sick cat, the last thing Cathy needs on her plate is a neighbourhood thief, who she’s been tasked with trying to track down.
Trying to keep so many balls in the air was never going to work out and as they tumble down around her, Cathy falls back on the one thing she’ll never lose: her eye for trouble.
This is a super fun book, which romps its way through Crouch End: London’s new capital of crime and intrigue. Aside from Cathy’s amazing and endearing ability to get things wrong, Campbell presents us with a whole cast of colourful, kooky characters, most of whom love Cathy and make plenty of their own errors along the way. The story is full of funny surprises, which will have you honking out loud like a goose.
I did wish that Cathy and Declan’s relationship was given a little more TLC throughout the story as I couldn’t quite understand what kept them together, but I have got a bit of a girl crush on Cathy so, who knows, maybe I’m just jealous…
review by Nikki Mason on behalf of BestChickLit.com
March 24, 2014
5 Star for sure! Murphy's Laws seems to follow Cathy as she transitions from full time at home Mom to part time in the work force advertising creative person. Of course she ends up in a job at a company with some not so nice people. Her best friend got her the job and is trying to help her learn the ropes when she has to stay home due to pregnancy problems. Meanwhile Cathy's husband has decided that he can no longer stand his job and QUITS--then Cathy gets fired but doesn't quite know how to tell hubby who is busy buying things they can no longer afford. Meanwhile a new elderly neighbor moves in who has troubles of her own!! AND there is someone who is robbing the homes in the neighborhood--Will Cathy, who loves to solve a good mystery (and besides she now has time on her hands since she was fired)be able to crack the identity of the Creeper? Read the book and find out--You will find yourself laughing, grimacing, and shaking your head in disbelief at the antics and goings on in this book. A light hearted mystery which will keep you reading and guessing till the end.
To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery
To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery
April 19, 2014
I received a copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
After reading Looking For La La I was excited about the continuing story of Cathy, the Crouch End housewife with the uniquely wacky take on her crazy life. I loved the first book and hoped to love the second.
BINGO! The sister writing team that comprises Ellie Campbell did it again.
The protagonist, Cathy is neurotic, insecure and reflects the worst side in all of us with enough bad choices to send her life in a humorous downward spiral. If you like the I Love Lucy type of humor that leads the reader from one small disaster that snowballs into a colossal mess, you'll love this book. It's laugh out loud funny, typically British and wonderful entertainment. I read this breath of fresh air after reading Wool, a dystopian Sci Fi Fantasy that left me in need of a laugh. Cathy and her neighbors, friends and co-workers are written as real people but it's her perception that is the real entertainment here. Like a stand up comic, Cathy shows us the funnier side of life.
Do you need a chuckle with a good story line? This book has it all - lovable characters, plot twists, and clean writing. You don't need to read the first one, but its a hoot too.
Well done Ellie Campbell.
After reading Looking For La La I was excited about the continuing story of Cathy, the Crouch End housewife with the uniquely wacky take on her crazy life. I loved the first book and hoped to love the second.
BINGO! The sister writing team that comprises Ellie Campbell did it again.
The protagonist, Cathy is neurotic, insecure and reflects the worst side in all of us with enough bad choices to send her life in a humorous downward spiral. If you like the I Love Lucy type of humor that leads the reader from one small disaster that snowballs into a colossal mess, you'll love this book. It's laugh out loud funny, typically British and wonderful entertainment. I read this breath of fresh air after reading Wool, a dystopian Sci Fi Fantasy that left me in need of a laugh. Cathy and her neighbors, friends and co-workers are written as real people but it's her perception that is the real entertainment here. Like a stand up comic, Cathy shows us the funnier side of life.
Do you need a chuckle with a good story line? This book has it all - lovable characters, plot twists, and clean writing. You don't need to read the first one, but its a hoot too.
Well done Ellie Campbell.
March 25, 2014
I received a copy of this for free in exchange for an honest review. Thank you Pam and Lorraine (Ellie). All opinions expressed are mine alone.
Since others have given the background of the book in their reviews, I will bypass that and get right to the point. My review.
Having read Looking for LaLa I was familiar with some of the characters in this book...Cathy, Rosa, Declan and more. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from the book though. Was it to take up where the other left off or a totally new book. I was delighted to find that it was a combination. The "familiar gang" was represented, but we had new characters to grab our interest. The characters were well developed, and colorful. I enjoyed all of them, especially Mrs. Baker. I laughed quite a bit while reading as I could "see" the situations that Cathy was in. Enjoyed the twists and turns. Cute ending. In other words...I loved the book.
I would definitely redommend the book to others. It isn't necessary to have read Looking for LaLa, however it would provide a very good insight into the background of the main characters of To
Catch a Creeper.
Since others have given the background of the book in their reviews, I will bypass that and get right to the point. My review.
Having read Looking for LaLa I was familiar with some of the characters in this book...Cathy, Rosa, Declan and more. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from the book though. Was it to take up where the other left off or a totally new book. I was delighted to find that it was a combination. The "familiar gang" was represented, but we had new characters to grab our interest. The characters were well developed, and colorful. I enjoyed all of them, especially Mrs. Baker. I laughed quite a bit while reading as I could "see" the situations that Cathy was in. Enjoyed the twists and turns. Cute ending. In other words...I loved the book.
I would definitely redommend the book to others. It isn't necessary to have read Looking for LaLa, however it would provide a very good insight into the background of the main characters of To
Catch a Creeper.
April 30, 2014
Disclaimer: I received an e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
Cathy's at it again!
This book picks up right where Looking for La La leaves off: "La La" has been caught, the TTMs have moved on in various ways, and Cathy's joined the workforce once again. However, now there's a Creeper on the loose, and it's becoming a real issue in the community. Worst of all, it seems like the police might be zeroing in on one of Cathy's close friends! Not one to just take these kinds of things lying down, Cathy's out to prove her friend's innocence while also setting her sights on catching the Creeper herself. (With a little help, of course.) Will they be able to stop the burglaries before it escalates into something more?
I loved this one just as much as La La, if not more. The characters are great, the story's captivating, and I found myself investigating right along with Cathy, trying to figure out who it could be. I have to say, the twists in this series are fantastic, and I didn't call this one anymore than I did the last! I hope there's more Crouch End mysteries to come, they're just fantastic!
4 1/2 stars
Cathy's at it again!
This book picks up right where Looking for La La leaves off: "La La" has been caught, the TTMs have moved on in various ways, and Cathy's joined the workforce once again. However, now there's a Creeper on the loose, and it's becoming a real issue in the community. Worst of all, it seems like the police might be zeroing in on one of Cathy's close friends! Not one to just take these kinds of things lying down, Cathy's out to prove her friend's innocence while also setting her sights on catching the Creeper herself. (With a little help, of course.) Will they be able to stop the burglaries before it escalates into something more?
I loved this one just as much as La La, if not more. The characters are great, the story's captivating, and I found myself investigating right along with Cathy, trying to figure out who it could be. I have to say, the twists in this series are fantastic, and I didn't call this one anymore than I did the last! I hope there's more Crouch End mysteries to come, they're just fantastic!
4 1/2 stars
March 4, 2015
To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery by Ellie Campbell
Cathy is working for a London ad agency with her best friend Rosa. Things are going good for a while. Then Her husband Declan has a "melt down". Cathy decides to join the neighborhood watch. She tries to catch The Crouch End Creeper, a burglar terrorizing the neighborhood.
Things start to get tough at work, trying to find the creeper is a challenge, dealing with her husband and his moods is exhausting. Cathy is determined to succeed in her job, be supportive of her husband, catch the creeper and be the best Mother she can be.
I really like Cathy, she is not perfect, but she strives to be the best person, friend, wife and Mother. The story is fresh, original, fun and had some laugh out loud moments. Those who like a fun (mystery) read should enjoy To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery.
Cathy is working for a London ad agency with her best friend Rosa. Things are going good for a while. Then Her husband Declan has a "melt down". Cathy decides to join the neighborhood watch. She tries to catch The Crouch End Creeper, a burglar terrorizing the neighborhood.
Things start to get tough at work, trying to find the creeper is a challenge, dealing with her husband and his moods is exhausting. Cathy is determined to succeed in her job, be supportive of her husband, catch the creeper and be the best Mother she can be.
I really like Cathy, she is not perfect, but she strives to be the best person, friend, wife and Mother. The story is fresh, original, fun and had some laugh out loud moments. Those who like a fun (mystery) read should enjoy To Catch A Creeper: A Crouch End Confidential Mystery.
September 5, 2014
This is very much a chick-lit book, and it will appeal to a wide range of women thanks to the fantastic character development and interesting plot. The protagonist will have readers wanting to throttle her at times, but that’s due to how well the emotion and characters leap off the page. The mystery portion is filled with twists, turns, and red herrings, which keep you guessing right until the very end. To top it off, it’s technically very sound. To Catch A Creeper is well worth picking up, and many people will have great fun falling into it.
Originally posted on The Review Hart
Originally posted on The Review Hart
April 27, 2014
I had a great time meeting Cathy and her crazy cast of characters in LOOKING FOR LA LA. I was excited to see what entertaining adventure this wonderful group of people would take me on and what sort of shenanigans they would get into. I was not disappointed and enjoyed the new additions to the cast. This is a fun, engaging mystery....it is very funny, but also keeps you on your toes! Such a fan! I can't wait to see what happens next! 4.5 star!
September 26, 2014
A great easy read with lots of red herring keeping you guessing until the end. Essentially about a mother returning to work alongside her best friend. When the friend leave, Cathy is plunged straight in the deep end ending with the sack which she doesn't tell her husband about as he has just resigned to be a house husband!
Add to this the investigation of a murder and joining the local neighbourhood watch team, Cathy keeps us amused throughout!
Add to this the investigation of a murder and joining the local neighbourhood watch team, Cathy keeps us amused throughout!
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