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Montgomery Bonbon #2
Death at the Lighthouse
Bonbon is back in the second installment of this illustrated murder mystery series. The gentleman detective can’t get away from murder—even on vacation.
Bonnie Montgomery is finally getting a vacation from cracking cases as her alter ego, Montgomery Bonbon. But something terribly fishy happens the moment she and Grampa Banks arrive on Odde Island—and it’s not just the smell of the harbor. There’s been a mysterious death at the lighthouse, and what everyone assumed was an accident is setting Bonbon’s mustache all aquiver: something is Highly Suspicious. When a second death takes place, Bonnie is sure the two are connected. But can she solve this case alone, or will she need double the detectives to solve double the murders?
Bonnie Montgomery is finally getting a vacation from cracking cases as her alter ego, Montgomery Bonbon. But something terribly fishy happens the moment she and Grampa Banks arrive on Odde Island—and it’s not just the smell of the harbor. There’s been a mysterious death at the lighthouse, and what everyone assumed was an accident is setting Bonbon’s mustache all aquiver: something is Highly Suspicious. When a second death takes place, Bonnie is sure the two are connected. But can she solve this case alone, or will she need double the detectives to solve double the murders?
304 pages, Paperback
Published February 11, 2025
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206 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
January 9, 2024
Bonnie Montgomery/Montgomery Bonbon is back in her/his second detective adventure. After the Murder at the Museum, Bonnie was hoping for a nice quiet holiday away with her Grampa but once again she has to don her fake moustache and beret and become Detective Bonbon as there has been a mysterious death on the island of Odde.
The lighthouse keeper has been found dead on the rocks below the lighthouse after a stormy night. The residents of Odde believe it was a terrible accident but Bonnie isn’t convinced. Why would the lighthouse keeper climb to the top of the lighthouse, to light the light, in a storm without putting on her coat first?
The game is afoot! Detective Bonbon has been activated and he will leave no stone unturned to discover the truth and bring the killer to justice. However, the residents all seem to have their own issues and hidden secrets and when there is a second death Bonbon really has his work cut out.
Who doesn’t love a murder mystery? This middle-grade novel will keep the reader entertained with its exciting plot, twists, and plenty of humour to give them the giggles throughout. Plus, brilliant illustrations too, and all aimed at the right level with no hard words.
You can certainly tell this book has been written by a comedian with the jokes, sarcasm, one-liners, and witty moments that fill the pages. Death at the Lighthouse is such a fabulous read. I do hope there will be plenty more crimes for Montgomery Bonbon/Bonnie to solve in the future.
The lighthouse keeper has been found dead on the rocks below the lighthouse after a stormy night. The residents of Odde believe it was a terrible accident but Bonnie isn’t convinced. Why would the lighthouse keeper climb to the top of the lighthouse, to light the light, in a storm without putting on her coat first?
The game is afoot! Detective Bonbon has been activated and he will leave no stone unturned to discover the truth and bring the killer to justice. However, the residents all seem to have their own issues and hidden secrets and when there is a second death Bonbon really has his work cut out.
Who doesn’t love a murder mystery? This middle-grade novel will keep the reader entertained with its exciting plot, twists, and plenty of humour to give them the giggles throughout. Plus, brilliant illustrations too, and all aimed at the right level with no hard words.
You can certainly tell this book has been written by a comedian with the jokes, sarcasm, one-liners, and witty moments that fill the pages. Death at the Lighthouse is such a fabulous read. I do hope there will be plenty more crimes for Montgomery Bonbon/Bonnie to solve in the future.
August 7, 2025
another perfect book but no one is surprised
October 17, 2023
The plot
Our story opens with Bonnie and Grampa Banks travelling from their hometown of Widdlington to Odde Island for a short half-term holiday and escape from detecting. Famed for its pageant (and banning of all things onion-based, including Cheese & Onion Crisps) and its windup lighthouse, it seems a perfect getaway. Nothing is likely to happen in the week they're away, right?
Oh, how wrong they were. Crossing the island's tidal causeway, they get stopped by the local exciseman and 'jobsworth', who insists they have to declare all things onion, by order of the Order of the Golden Fleece! Bonnie's cheese and onion puffs get flattened with a mallet, and Grandpa Banks is let off with a warning. It was, they thought, rather strange, but then this was Odde Island. They arrive at the famous Leerie Lighthouse only to find it closed after the keeper, Maude Cragge, was found dead, having been blown off the top of the lighthouse during the previous night's storm. Maude was also the 'Grand Maven' of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Not a lady that was liked by many, it seems. The 'Especial Constable' on the island thinks it was just a tragic accident, but something about the scene was amiss. But she couldn't put her finger on it.
Now, I don't know about you, but if there was a hint of something not quite right and I was a clued-up detective on holiday, I'd do precisely what Bonnie does and go about checking for clues to quell any suspicions. And then, all being fine, I'd go to the beach, build sandcastles, and eat tons of ice cream.
It's time for Montgomery Bonbon to start investigating! Bonnie enters the lighthouse in disguise and finds a dry, 'golden fleece' jacket. Well, it's more a parker than a fleece. Within a pocket, she finds an IOU to Maude from someone with the initial 'W'. Where there is evidence, there is a crime, and as Bonbon would say, "The game is afoot, mein ami."
The investigation that follows introduces Bonnie and Banks to all manner of locals. There's the smarmy owner of the past-its-best guest house they are staying at, Tobias Waterman. Down on her luck and short of a Manor House, Lady Wallop seems more than suspicious, especially when she was out the night Maude came a cropper and seemingly had no alibi! Then there's second in command to Maude, Reuben Ribble, who seems far too grumpy and keen for nobody to dig into his affairs.
And what about Maanvi Mallick, Odde Island's very own once-great reporter who's not below digging up the dirt and a bit extra for a good story and be noticed. As to Miss Bunch, she seems to have hidden something, or things, hiding in the school cellar. And then there is Dana Hornville, Bonnie's classmate, who just happens to have taken a cottage on the island with her mum. The thing is, Dana has discovered Bonnie's secret persona and might well spill the beans and ruin it all.
The following plot twist is when one of the prominent characters comes to a sudden demise, another tragic accident, that try as Bonbon might, he/she, cant make fit murder . . . . but those little grey cells, they are working.
Which is where we shall leave this review.
So, what did we think?
A superb and highly illustrated adventure that will capture the imagination. Fast-paced, there was never a dull page within the covers. The plot is a delight, simple but addictive.
Adults, who may 'accidentally' happen to pick this up thinking it's their latest John Le' Carrie or the Grisham they had wanted to read on the bus or train that morning, will be suitably amused.
Written by a renowned award-winning stand-up comedian, the text has a definite adult cheeky twist. No rude double-entendre, just skilful appropriate lateral wordplay and humour. Bonnie's misunderstanding of more adult phrases actually brings a genuineness to her alter-ego's persona, much like Poirrot's own, how you English say 'the grasp incomplete of the English, no?'.
Of course, having Bonbon mix German and French phrases is a brilliant ploy and adds to his character. Christie never overplayed Poirrot's quirks; thankfully, this does not happen here, either. Too much of that would be a turn-off, even for kids.
The plot, whilst a typical murder mystery, is skillfully wrapped up with a great setting and a string of dubious and fun/quirky characters who all could have done it. Only by chance did we guess the villain; even then, we weren't 100% right. In my experience, we seldom get the motives why folks do things. That was the same here, though there were clues.
So . . . . Crunch time.
Enquiring, fun-loving kids will love this well-written, easy-going, fast-paced series. This style of humour does it for us every time. Anything that can amuse Mrs H and me for a week or two during the stressful clatter of refurbishment works and even raise a smile and a chortle from Mrs H, having seen the debris and dust she had to clear up, is a winner. As Mrs H always says: "Money spent on an entertaining book is money and time well spent." Fostering good cheer, an inquiring mind, and active reading for later life is always a winner.
Our story opens with Bonnie and Grampa Banks travelling from their hometown of Widdlington to Odde Island for a short half-term holiday and escape from detecting. Famed for its pageant (and banning of all things onion-based, including Cheese & Onion Crisps) and its windup lighthouse, it seems a perfect getaway. Nothing is likely to happen in the week they're away, right?
Oh, how wrong they were. Crossing the island's tidal causeway, they get stopped by the local exciseman and 'jobsworth', who insists they have to declare all things onion, by order of the Order of the Golden Fleece! Bonnie's cheese and onion puffs get flattened with a mallet, and Grandpa Banks is let off with a warning. It was, they thought, rather strange, but then this was Odde Island. They arrive at the famous Leerie Lighthouse only to find it closed after the keeper, Maude Cragge, was found dead, having been blown off the top of the lighthouse during the previous night's storm. Maude was also the 'Grand Maven' of the Order of the Golden Fleece. Not a lady that was liked by many, it seems. The 'Especial Constable' on the island thinks it was just a tragic accident, but something about the scene was amiss. But she couldn't put her finger on it.
Now, I don't know about you, but if there was a hint of something not quite right and I was a clued-up detective on holiday, I'd do precisely what Bonnie does and go about checking for clues to quell any suspicions. And then, all being fine, I'd go to the beach, build sandcastles, and eat tons of ice cream.
It's time for Montgomery Bonbon to start investigating! Bonnie enters the lighthouse in disguise and finds a dry, 'golden fleece' jacket. Well, it's more a parker than a fleece. Within a pocket, she finds an IOU to Maude from someone with the initial 'W'. Where there is evidence, there is a crime, and as Bonbon would say, "The game is afoot, mein ami."
The investigation that follows introduces Bonnie and Banks to all manner of locals. There's the smarmy owner of the past-its-best guest house they are staying at, Tobias Waterman. Down on her luck and short of a Manor House, Lady Wallop seems more than suspicious, especially when she was out the night Maude came a cropper and seemingly had no alibi! Then there's second in command to Maude, Reuben Ribble, who seems far too grumpy and keen for nobody to dig into his affairs.
And what about Maanvi Mallick, Odde Island's very own once-great reporter who's not below digging up the dirt and a bit extra for a good story and be noticed. As to Miss Bunch, she seems to have hidden something, or things, hiding in the school cellar. And then there is Dana Hornville, Bonnie's classmate, who just happens to have taken a cottage on the island with her mum. The thing is, Dana has discovered Bonnie's secret persona and might well spill the beans and ruin it all.
The following plot twist is when one of the prominent characters comes to a sudden demise, another tragic accident, that try as Bonbon might, he/she, cant make fit murder . . . . but those little grey cells, they are working.
Which is where we shall leave this review.
So, what did we think?
A superb and highly illustrated adventure that will capture the imagination. Fast-paced, there was never a dull page within the covers. The plot is a delight, simple but addictive.
Adults, who may 'accidentally' happen to pick this up thinking it's their latest John Le' Carrie or the Grisham they had wanted to read on the bus or train that morning, will be suitably amused.
Written by a renowned award-winning stand-up comedian, the text has a definite adult cheeky twist. No rude double-entendre, just skilful appropriate lateral wordplay and humour. Bonnie's misunderstanding of more adult phrases actually brings a genuineness to her alter-ego's persona, much like Poirrot's own, how you English say 'the grasp incomplete of the English, no?'.
Of course, having Bonbon mix German and French phrases is a brilliant ploy and adds to his character. Christie never overplayed Poirrot's quirks; thankfully, this does not happen here, either. Too much of that would be a turn-off, even for kids.
The plot, whilst a typical murder mystery, is skillfully wrapped up with a great setting and a string of dubious and fun/quirky characters who all could have done it. Only by chance did we guess the villain; even then, we weren't 100% right. In my experience, we seldom get the motives why folks do things. That was the same here, though there were clues.
So . . . . Crunch time.
Enquiring, fun-loving kids will love this well-written, easy-going, fast-paced series. This style of humour does it for us every time. Anything that can amuse Mrs H and me for a week or two during the stressful clatter of refurbishment works and even raise a smile and a chortle from Mrs H, having seen the debris and dust she had to clear up, is a winner. As Mrs H always says: "Money spent on an entertaining book is money and time well spent." Fostering good cheer, an inquiring mind, and active reading for later life is always a winner.
March 26, 2024
THE KING HAS DONE IT ONCE AGAIN!
an amazing and thrilling whodunit. Yes it took me 15 DAYS to read this book but that’s simply because my annual exams were taking place at that time. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys murder mysteries. Can’t wait for the next book!!!
an amazing and thrilling whodunit. Yes it took me 15 DAYS to read this book but that’s simply because my annual exams were taking place at that time. I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys murder mysteries. Can’t wait for the next book!!!
April 5, 2025
The second fun Montgomery Bonbon mystery by the inimitable ABK. Really enjoyed reading it (even though, as a grownup, I'm not really the target audience for these books.)
The only drawback for me was the smell of the paper the book was printed on. I am extremely sensitive to the smell of newsprint, and that is what this book smelled like.
The only drawback for me was the smell of the paper the book was printed on. I am extremely sensitive to the smell of newsprint, and that is what this book smelled like.
January 4, 2024
This made me chuckle loads! I love a good murder mystery, and this kept me guessing! It’s illustrated too - which is always a winner from me! I can’t wait to take this to school. Monsieur Bonbon is a wonderfully smart crime fighter and he has wonderful assistants! Brilliant… and now I need to track down the first one!
January 25, 2024
The newest Montgomery BonBon and will she solve a murder at a lighthouse? Find out what it is about onions? And more?
It is time for the newest mystery and this time Bonnie and her grandfather are off for a holiday to the picturesque little island of Odde Island, yes, Odde. And as you will soon find out it is indeed a very Odde town. From a ban on onions (yes really), secret meetings and not so secret meetings, a weird group of peeps leading the town. And that is not even counting the murder. Or murders. Because of course there isn’t going to be just one when Bonnie/BonBon is around, haha. She has just the magnet for murder as our lovely Hazel and Daisy! She wants to hold a vacation, well, girl I think that unless you drop your alter-ego BonBon it doesn’t matter where you go! Murder and mystery will follow you!
I just loved seeing BonBon/Bonnie discover the island, try to solve riddles and mysteries, interview with suspects and try to get a clear timeline, make up grand plans. It was really fun, and I just love how no one (well except of course her friend who is coincidentally also here) knows that BonBon is just a little girl dressing up and throwing random French and German words around. For real. It reminds me of all those superhero stories. Just done a mask, or in this case a moustache, and voila, no one knows who you are! OK, this time it wasn’t always the easiest because it is such a small place and people have seen Bonnie and her grandfather and are at times wondering where Bonnie went, but grandpa is smart enough to make up stories, which I just loved. He is really dedicated to helping out his granddaughter with her mysteries and totally embraces the role of assistant.
The mystery and all the murders were exciting! Especially since it all took place on such a tiny bit of land which was also for most of the time an island (only when the tide is low can you come in).
I really liked that Dana was also here, though it felt a bit coincidental. But I am happy that she and Bonnie could have a chat about things and that Dana is helping out. I really hope that Dana will also be in later books and that the friendship between her and Bonnie will grow. Two smart girls solving mysteries and murders~
It was just that the ending felt a bit sudden. I was definitely looking at my copy to see if I missed something. I could understand that she wanted to be done with it, but she just solved a crime and this is how she handles that? Weird. And a shame.
I loved that at the beginning of this book we get to see some mysteries that Bonnie/BonBon solved. Some a bit silly, some a bit more serious, but I really liked that we got a glimpse of them.
Oh, and the illustrations by Claire Powell were ace again! I just LOVE her style~
But all in all, another fun Montgomery book with plenty of fun, mystery, and murder. I cannot wait to see what is next for her and her grandpa!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
It is time for the newest mystery and this time Bonnie and her grandfather are off for a holiday to the picturesque little island of Odde Island, yes, Odde. And as you will soon find out it is indeed a very Odde town. From a ban on onions (yes really), secret meetings and not so secret meetings, a weird group of peeps leading the town. And that is not even counting the murder. Or murders. Because of course there isn’t going to be just one when Bonnie/BonBon is around, haha. She has just the magnet for murder as our lovely Hazel and Daisy! She wants to hold a vacation, well, girl I think that unless you drop your alter-ego BonBon it doesn’t matter where you go! Murder and mystery will follow you!
I just loved seeing BonBon/Bonnie discover the island, try to solve riddles and mysteries, interview with suspects and try to get a clear timeline, make up grand plans. It was really fun, and I just love how no one (well except of course her friend who is coincidentally also here) knows that BonBon is just a little girl dressing up and throwing random French and German words around. For real. It reminds me of all those superhero stories. Just done a mask, or in this case a moustache, and voila, no one knows who you are! OK, this time it wasn’t always the easiest because it is such a small place and people have seen Bonnie and her grandfather and are at times wondering where Bonnie went, but grandpa is smart enough to make up stories, which I just loved. He is really dedicated to helping out his granddaughter with her mysteries and totally embraces the role of assistant.
The mystery and all the murders were exciting! Especially since it all took place on such a tiny bit of land which was also for most of the time an island (only when the tide is low can you come in).
I really liked that Dana was also here, though it felt a bit coincidental. But I am happy that she and Bonnie could have a chat about things and that Dana is helping out. I really hope that Dana will also be in later books and that the friendship between her and Bonnie will grow. Two smart girls solving mysteries and murders~
It was just that the ending felt a bit sudden. I was definitely looking at my copy to see if I missed something. I could understand that she wanted to be done with it, but she just solved a crime and this is how she handles that? Weird. And a shame.
I loved that at the beginning of this book we get to see some mysteries that Bonnie/BonBon solved. Some a bit silly, some a bit more serious, but I really liked that we got a glimpse of them.
Oh, and the illustrations by Claire Powell were ace again! I just LOVE her style~
But all in all, another fun Montgomery book with plenty of fun, mystery, and murder. I cannot wait to see what is next for her and her grandpa!
Review first posted at https://twirlingbookprincess.com/
September 7, 2024
Bon Bon is at it again! This time Bonnie and Grampa Banks are just trying to enjoy a quiet holiday… but nothing ever stays quiet for long when Beckett-King is involved. Full of the usual tension coupled with chaos and humour this was another fun and exciting mystery that Bon Bon and the hilariously eccentric cast of characters made a roaring success.
March 7, 2024
The first book in this series was an amusing tale, a bit silly but well written and enjoyable. This book was ok, but I didn't feel it had quite the same charm to it as the first. The story itself was interesting, and I wanted to know what happened, but I didn't find it quite as funny or exciting. It's a decent read, and i think a lot of kids will enjoy it. I did still enjoy it to an extent.
May 23, 2025
Montgomery Bonbon. Śmierć w latarni morskiej – zagadka, która rozświetla wyobraźnię! Wyobraź sobie, że jesteś na wakacjach na uroczej, odosobnionej wyspie. Miejsce idealne na odpoczynek, prawda? Chyba że na tej wyspie ginie tajemniczo latarniczka, a wokół kręci się mnóstwo dziwnych i podejrzanych postaci… Właśnie w takie kłopoty wpada Bonnie Montgomery, która w drugim tomie serii o Montgomerym Bonbonie znów przywdziewa kapelusz i sztuczne wąsy, by rozwiązać kolejną intrygującą sprawę! Bonnie to bohaterka, którą trudno nie polubić. Bystrzacha z wielką wyobraźnią, udająca starszego pana – Montgomery’ego Bonbona – to detektyw, którego nie da się oszukać. W duecie ze swoim dziadkiem Banksem tworzą zabawną, ale bardzo skuteczną parę śledczych. Ich relacja pełna jest ciepła, wzajemnego szacunku i – co najważniejsze – mnóstwa dobrego humoru.
Autor, Alasdair Beckett-King, doskonale wie, jak pisać dla młodych czytelników. Nie traktuje ich jak dzieci, ale jak bystrych czytelników gotowych na prawdziwe zagadki, sprytne zwroty akcji i inteligentne żarty. Styl autora jest lekki, dowcipny i pełen absurdalnych smaczków – wystarczy wspomnieć o zakazie wwożenia cebuli na wyspę Cud! Fabuła książki rozwija się dynamicznie – nie ma tu miejsca na nudę. Każdy rozdział odsłania nowe fakty i tropy, które Bonnie skrupulatnie analizuje. Zamiast spokojnych wakacji bohaterka ląduje w samym środku śledztwa, w którym podejrzani są wszyscy: od kapitana promu po bibliotekarkę. Czytelnik wraz z nią próbuje rozwikłać tajemnicę i dojść do tego, co naprawdę wydarzyło się w latarni morskiej.
Claire Powell, ilustratorka serii, znakomicie oddaje klimat opowieści. Jej rysunki są zabawne, dynamiczne i świetnie uzupełniają tekst, pomagając młodszym czytelnikom wyobrazić sobie opisywane sytuacje. Książka będzie świetną lekturą dla czytelników od 9. roku życia, ale starsi też będą się świetnie bawić. To pozycja idealna dla tych, którzy lubią zagadki, przygody, śledztwa i niebanalny humor. Świetnie sprawdzi się również, jako lektura do wspólnego czytania z rodzeństwem lub rodzicami.
„Montgomery Bonbon. Śmierć w latarni morskiej” to książka, która łączy elementy kryminału, komedii i powieści przygodowej. Zabawna, wciągająca, a przy tym pełna uroku i mądrości – zachwyci każdego młodego miłośnika zagadek. Jeśli szukasz historii, która pobudzi Twoją wyobraźnię i wywoła uśmiech na twarzy – ta książka jest dla Ciebie!
Autor, Alasdair Beckett-King, doskonale wie, jak pisać dla młodych czytelników. Nie traktuje ich jak dzieci, ale jak bystrych czytelników gotowych na prawdziwe zagadki, sprytne zwroty akcji i inteligentne żarty. Styl autora jest lekki, dowcipny i pełen absurdalnych smaczków – wystarczy wspomnieć o zakazie wwożenia cebuli na wyspę Cud! Fabuła książki rozwija się dynamicznie – nie ma tu miejsca na nudę. Każdy rozdział odsłania nowe fakty i tropy, które Bonnie skrupulatnie analizuje. Zamiast spokojnych wakacji bohaterka ląduje w samym środku śledztwa, w którym podejrzani są wszyscy: od kapitana promu po bibliotekarkę. Czytelnik wraz z nią próbuje rozwikłać tajemnicę i dojść do tego, co naprawdę wydarzyło się w latarni morskiej.
Claire Powell, ilustratorka serii, znakomicie oddaje klimat opowieści. Jej rysunki są zabawne, dynamiczne i świetnie uzupełniają tekst, pomagając młodszym czytelnikom wyobrazić sobie opisywane sytuacje. Książka będzie świetną lekturą dla czytelników od 9. roku życia, ale starsi też będą się świetnie bawić. To pozycja idealna dla tych, którzy lubią zagadki, przygody, śledztwa i niebanalny humor. Świetnie sprawdzi się również, jako lektura do wspólnego czytania z rodzeństwem lub rodzicami.
„Montgomery Bonbon. Śmierć w latarni morskiej” to książka, która łączy elementy kryminału, komedii i powieści przygodowej. Zabawna, wciągająca, a przy tym pełna uroku i mądrości – zachwyci każdego młodego miłośnika zagadek. Jeśli szukasz historii, która pobudzi Twoją wyobraźnię i wywoła uśmiech na twarzy – ta książka jest dla Ciebie!
October 5, 2024
Bonnie and Bonbon both go to the same Odde Island at the same time, on account of them being the same person, even if one is a ten year old schoolgirl and one a masterful detective with a Europudding of an accent and a black moustache. It's supposed to be a holiday, but no – the local lighthouse keeper will soon be found to have just died, and Bon- just knows one of the island's misfits, oddballs and aristocrats sans home will have been behind it. Any idea of a restful trip will be out the window (of the ice cream van her grandfather is driving for the affair), and – even if Bon-'s secret might come out in the open at any time – she will try her best to get to the bottom of it all. Or rather, the top – the lighthouse generally going in an upwards direction, after all...
This wasn't as immediately funny to me as the first in this series (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), but it was still fine. Also, last time we had what was so brazenly a locked-room mystery, from the off, and here we seem to be pastiching Agatha Christie a touch, with the enclosed list of suspects and them all being odd adults. But the levity is definitely here, the characterisation of everyone done really well again, and the unsolvable crime does rear its ugly head before too long. All this means this is once again a clever read, without Bonnie being insufferably clever with it. When I spoke to the author about the first book he said he was ignoring reviews, but I'll still happily put my liking for this series on record. Perhaps I rated Book One a touch higher, due to the surprise of it even existing, but it might also have had more gestation time than this first sequel. This loses some of the richness and delight Bonnie initially gave, but is still a four-star read.
This wasn't as immediately funny to me as the first in this series (https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...), but it was still fine. Also, last time we had what was so brazenly a locked-room mystery, from the off, and here we seem to be pastiching Agatha Christie a touch, with the enclosed list of suspects and them all being odd adults. But the levity is definitely here, the characterisation of everyone done really well again, and the unsolvable crime does rear its ugly head before too long. All this means this is once again a clever read, without Bonnie being insufferably clever with it. When I spoke to the author about the first book he said he was ignoring reviews, but I'll still happily put my liking for this series on record. Perhaps I rated Book One a touch higher, due to the surprise of it even existing, but it might also have had more gestation time than this first sequel. This loses some of the richness and delight Bonnie initially gave, but is still a four-star read.
July 7, 2025
Months after solving the murder at the Hornville Museum, Bonnie and Grampa Banks are off on a well deserved holiday to Odde Island. Unfortunately, there is no such thing as a vacation from murder for Bonnie’s alter ego, the great detective Montgomery Bonbon. Before they even get the chance to check into their B&B, a dead body is discovered and Bonbon is on the case. Bonnie has her work cut out for her, the residents of Odde Island are… odd, and it seems like everyone is a suspect. Making matters more complicated, Bonnie spots Dana Hornville (her maybe friend) on the island with her mom. Other than Grampa Banks, Dana is the only other person that knows the true identity of Montgomery Bonbon and Bonnie’s been avoiding her for months because she’s worried Dana won’t keep her secret. But when another resident turns up dead, Bonnie might have to ask for Dana’s help in solving this mystery. Along the way, Bonnie uncovers an illegal onion smuggling ring, gains an official friend, and tackles her fear of heights in a tense final confrontation at the top of a lighthouse. Bonnie and Grampa Banks are cued as White, Dana and her mom are cued as Black.
As with the first book in this series, Murder at the Museum, there are just as many jokes as there are murder mystery clues to uncover. Powell’s illustrations bring the characters to life and are the perfect compliment to Beckett-King’s writing. The beauty of this series so far is that while the background between Bonnie and Dana would be lost, readers could easily drop into this series at book two without missing too much. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
As with the first book in this series, Murder at the Museum, there are just as many jokes as there are murder mystery clues to uncover. Powell’s illustrations bring the characters to life and are the perfect compliment to Beckett-King’s writing. The beauty of this series so far is that while the background between Bonnie and Dana would be lost, readers could easily drop into this series at book two without missing too much. Link to complete review: https://ysbookreviews.wordpress.com/2...
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November 16, 2025ŚMIERĆ W LATARNI MORSKIEJ, to tom 2 serii o specyficznym detektywie o imieniu MONTGOMERY BONBON. Pierwsza odsłona serii, czyli MORDERSTWO W MUZEUM podobała mi się i odnalazłam w tej historii lekkość i dziecięcy charakter połączony z tą nieprawdopodobnością, którą tylko mali bohaterowie potrafią pojąć. Jak zatem wypadła kolejna część?
LATARNIA MORSKA już sama w sobie jest świetna na miejsce przestępstwa (trzeba przyznać, że autor Alasdair Beckett0King ma dobry gust do miejscówek - teraz latarnia, przedtem muzeum - a w trójce będzie hoho super dwór) a bohaterowie jak zawsze dość uroczy. Zwłaszcza podoba mi się koncepcja dziadka działającego z wnuczką pod przykrywką i rozwiązujących razem naprawdę poważne rzeczy - morderstwa, to nie przelewki.
Przyznaję, że tom 2 nieco mniej mi przypadł do gustu, co nie oznacza, że jest zły. Ja po prostu bardziej wkręciłam się w fabułę tomu 1. Tutaj może zaczęłam dostrzegać więcej luk fabularnych, zbyt prostą ścieżkę postępowania bohaterów i mniejszą tajemniczość. Jest to jednak - zdaje się - wyłącznie wina mojego wieku. Lecz - bawiłam się dobrze a rozwiązanie zagadki było satysfakcjonujące - nawet mrożące krew w żyłach. Swoją drogą ciekawa ta dziewczynka - detektyw, która wszystkich robi w lolo.
Seria jest ślicznie wydana. Ilustracje Claire Powell robią robotę i dodają bardzo dużo fabule - czasem nawet ją zwyczajnie ratując. Ja już sięgam po tom 3 i z tego co wiem jest jeszcze tom 4, ale na tę chwilę nie ma go na polskim rynku - będę wyglądać, bo 3 już ciepła w moich dłoniach!
burza nie w szklance wody
tom 2
MONTGOMERY BONBON
Wydawnictwo Kropka
egzemplarz recenzencki
LATARNIA MORSKA już sama w sobie jest świetna na miejsce przestępstwa (trzeba przyznać, że autor Alasdair Beckett0King ma dobry gust do miejscówek - teraz latarnia, przedtem muzeum - a w trójce będzie hoho super dwór) a bohaterowie jak zawsze dość uroczy. Zwłaszcza podoba mi się koncepcja dziadka działającego z wnuczką pod przykrywką i rozwiązujących razem naprawdę poważne rzeczy - morderstwa, to nie przelewki.
Przyznaję, że tom 2 nieco mniej mi przypadł do gustu, co nie oznacza, że jest zły. Ja po prostu bardziej wkręciłam się w fabułę tomu 1. Tutaj może zaczęłam dostrzegać więcej luk fabularnych, zbyt prostą ścieżkę postępowania bohaterów i mniejszą tajemniczość. Jest to jednak - zdaje się - wyłącznie wina mojego wieku. Lecz - bawiłam się dobrze a rozwiązanie zagadki było satysfakcjonujące - nawet mrożące krew w żyłach. Swoją drogą ciekawa ta dziewczynka - detektyw, która wszystkich robi w lolo.
Seria jest ślicznie wydana. Ilustracje Claire Powell robią robotę i dodają bardzo dużo fabule - czasem nawet ją zwyczajnie ratując. Ja już sięgam po tom 3 i z tego co wiem jest jeszcze tom 4, ale na tę chwilę nie ma go na polskim rynku - będę wyglądać, bo 3 już ciepła w moich dłoniach!
burza nie w szklance wody
tom 2
MONTGOMERY BONBON
Wydawnictwo Kropka
egzemplarz recenzencki
March 23, 2024
3.5 stars.
(Content warnings: murder. Nothing in this review).
A solid second instalment in the Montgomery Bonbon series. Alasdair Beckett-King once again had me laughing aloud and struggling to figure out this next mystery alongside Bonnie. I will say that I enjoyed the first book more, but I think in part that might be because the novelty of the excellent core characters had worn off, and the new whodunit and characters didn't quite make up for that slight drop in adoration. That's not to say that Death at the Lighthouse was disappointing or unenjoyable.
This novel's mystery takes place on Odde Island, which, combined with the aptly named 'Oddities' that populate the place, made for a brilliant setting. The possibilities seemed much greater on the island, with much more space than the museum from book one. The random curiosities of the island, its people and its traditions also added lots of humour to the narrative - I was particularly impressed by the onion motif, if you will, which runs through the book and always made me smile.
Sadly I found the same problem with this second book as I did with the first - that the solution to the mystery seemed to spring out of nowhere and unravel rapidly right at the end of the novel. I just had to take Bonbon's word for it, really, because I struggled to fit the clues together myself - there was no ohhhh moment where things made sense. I will say, though, that I enjoyed the dramatic climax and the heightened sense of danger and action that unsettled the Big Reveal.
(Content warnings: murder. Nothing in this review).
A solid second instalment in the Montgomery Bonbon series. Alasdair Beckett-King once again had me laughing aloud and struggling to figure out this next mystery alongside Bonnie. I will say that I enjoyed the first book more, but I think in part that might be because the novelty of the excellent core characters had worn off, and the new whodunit and characters didn't quite make up for that slight drop in adoration. That's not to say that Death at the Lighthouse was disappointing or unenjoyable.
This novel's mystery takes place on Odde Island, which, combined with the aptly named 'Oddities' that populate the place, made for a brilliant setting. The possibilities seemed much greater on the island, with much more space than the museum from book one. The random curiosities of the island, its people and its traditions also added lots of humour to the narrative - I was particularly impressed by the onion motif, if you will, which runs through the book and always made me smile.
Sadly I found the same problem with this second book as I did with the first - that the solution to the mystery seemed to spring out of nowhere and unravel rapidly right at the end of the novel. I just had to take Bonbon's word for it, really, because I struggled to fit the clues together myself - there was no ohhhh moment where things made sense. I will say, though, that I enjoyed the dramatic climax and the heightened sense of danger and action that unsettled the Big Reveal.
August 30, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Walker Books for allowing me to read an ARC.
Hooray, a second adventure for the world's greatest sleuth, Monsieur Montgomery Bonbon! In this new case, Bonnie and Grandpa Banks head to Odde Island for a much needed holiday, but, of course, there is no time for sandcastle building and eating ice creams when you're a private detective. Not when there's a murder to be solved and not a competent adult to be....well, there are no competent adults in Bonnie's world, although Grandpa Banks does have his hero moment. It's well deserved, old man.
The cheery wit and humour are just as strong here as they were in the first book - plenty of good puns - creating a charming and fun world that just happens to be filled with murder and mystery that will keep readers guessing and wanting more. Building on those strengths, it was great to have Bonnie's friend, Dana, come back as a second assistant and to see their friendship evolve a little more. There was also more melodrama, with the denouement happening at the top of the lighthouse in a thunderstorm with Montgomery facing some danger.
Claire Powell's energetic illustrations brings each character to life and help the reader to make sense of all those vital clues.
I wish we had these books when I was young!
Hooray, a second adventure for the world's greatest sleuth, Monsieur Montgomery Bonbon! In this new case, Bonnie and Grandpa Banks head to Odde Island for a much needed holiday, but, of course, there is no time for sandcastle building and eating ice creams when you're a private detective. Not when there's a murder to be solved and not a competent adult to be....well, there are no competent adults in Bonnie's world, although Grandpa Banks does have his hero moment. It's well deserved, old man.
The cheery wit and humour are just as strong here as they were in the first book - plenty of good puns - creating a charming and fun world that just happens to be filled with murder and mystery that will keep readers guessing and wanting more. Building on those strengths, it was great to have Bonnie's friend, Dana, come back as a second assistant and to see their friendship evolve a little more. There was also more melodrama, with the denouement happening at the top of the lighthouse in a thunderstorm with Montgomery facing some danger.
Claire Powell's energetic illustrations brings each character to life and help the reader to make sense of all those vital clues.
I wish we had these books when I was young!
September 24, 2023
My daughter and I loved the first adventure of Bonnie/Montgomery Bonbon, I thought it was a clever little locked room mystery for kids, as well as being the right level of witty and daft, and my daughter thought that it was great and that Alasdair Beckett-King was ACTUALLY HILARIOUS. We were therefore very excited to find out a sequel was due out - and it didn't disappoint.
This was more of the same - it's very silly (onion smuggling, crisp stamping, vegetables shaped like bums), but
very fun and yet clever enough to work as a mystery. It had us laughing but also had us guessing, a great combination.
We can't wait for the further adventures of Montgomery Bonbon!
This was more of the same - it's very silly (onion smuggling, crisp stamping, vegetables shaped like bums), but
very fun and yet clever enough to work as a mystery. It had us laughing but also had us guessing, a great combination.
We can't wait for the further adventures of Montgomery Bonbon!
March 5, 2024
Really fun with excellent comedy writing that puts me in mind of beloved childhood computer game series Monkey Island. Grateful for a fun mystery series that I would have loved as a kid.
My only reasons for docking a star ate that the ending felt a little rushed, and the killer's motive was tenuous. Loved the character development, harmony of prose and art style, and overall humor. Looking forward to the next and to sharing this with the precocious youngsters in my life!
My only reasons for docking a star ate that the ending felt a little rushed, and the killer's motive was tenuous. Loved the character development, harmony of prose and art style, and overall humor. Looking forward to the next and to sharing this with the precocious youngsters in my life!
July 22, 2025
The Montgomery Bonbon series continues, and this second installment is a locked room mystery. Is it clever or silly? Is it preposterous or puzzling? Is it kooky or spooky? Yes!
For kids, although the alter ego is clearly ridiculous and unlikely, it's gotta be a bit gratifying to get some recognition of how little respect kids generally get. And for female people in general, for that matter. Not only the young. If only we each had a handy mustache, plus a dependable grandpa for backup.
For kids, although the alter ego is clearly ridiculous and unlikely, it's gotta be a bit gratifying to get some recognition of how little respect kids generally get. And for female people in general, for that matter. Not only the young. If only we each had a handy mustache, plus a dependable grandpa for backup.
May 20, 2025
I enjoyed this fun and lighthearted mystery, but I enjoyed the first one much more. The first one had a lot more funny quips and plays on words. This storyline seemed a little bit more convoluted with a lot more characters to keep track of and didn't have as many fun one-liners. I look forward to book number three!
June 24, 2025
Death at the Lighthouse was a fun read I'm glad that Bonnie decided that she could trust Dana with the secret that she is Detective Montgomery Bonbon, and even let Dana help solve the case. However, I don't quite understand why she cut off all contact with Dana, and when exactly that happened but I am glad that they could reconnect again. Overall, I give this book a 3.5 ⭐️.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 17, 2023
The writing is very accessible to students and the illustration is adorable. Sometimes detective stories for children may come across as being a bit bland, but this one is definitely a fun-filled read.
November 5, 2023
Any book that brings me this much joy deserves five stars. My point from review of the first book still stands: every adult should read a kid's book once in a while because you deserve than kind of adorable silly fun in your life.
December 1, 2023
Another spectacularly silly romp from the always delightful ABK. The narrative voice of the series reminds me of Lemony Snicket, which, given my lifelong love affair with A Series of Unfortunate Events, I mean as very high praise. Can't wait to see what Monsieur Bonbon gets up to next!
March 6, 2024
the book is good and i liked it i liked it i liked it i liked it i liked it i liked it i liked it i liked it
it was funny and a bit funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and a bit funny and would you belive it it was funny and i liked it
it was funny and a bit funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and funny and a bit funny and would you belive it it was funny and i liked it
July 4, 2024
Cute redhead explains how to write a masterfully wonderful and clever murder mystery for children! Loved every moment, especially the description: her laugh sounded like a ticklish car going through the car wash 🤩 can’t wait for book 3!!
February 18, 2025
The way he/sh- figured it out and the end drama had my heart beating so fast i almost went into cardiac arrest! DON'T READ IF YOU HAVE HEART OR LUNG PROBLEMS CAUSE I HELD MY BREATH SOOOOOOOOO LONG AT THE END!!!!!!!!!
February 26, 2025
Bonbon on the case again!
This was another fun Montgomery Bonbon book with plenty of wit, whimsy, fun, mystery, and murder! I really liked that we got to see other mysteries that Montgomery solved - some a bit silly, some a bit more serious.
This was another fun Montgomery Bonbon book with plenty of wit, whimsy, fun, mystery, and murder! I really liked that we got to see other mysteries that Montgomery solved - some a bit silly, some a bit more serious.
August 4, 2025
Another incredible adventure with Montgomery Bonbon. Although it didn't make me laugh at loud as much as the first book, it was still fabulously written, and effortless to read. Also, the illustrations were so charming, they really added so much to experience over all.
November 30, 2025
Another fun romp! Clever and humble as always, glad to see Bonbon is making some friends in this book. Quite a few twists at the end- and I found it a bit hard to follow at the end- but it was worth it! Banned onions- imagine! Love a quirky little island town too. Looking forward to the next.
October 25, 2023
Yet another wonderful children's mystery by the always funny ABK. Can't wait for the next installment!
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