What do you think?
Rate this book
Shell House Detectives #5
The Arts Trail Killer
A killer on the loose, and a village gripped by fear. Can the Shell House Detectives save Porthpella?
Springtime on the Cornish coast and Porthpella’s artistic community are throwing open their doors, welcoming visitors to the annual Arts Trail. And this year, celebrity artist Harrison Loveday is the guest of honour.
However, the light mood soon darkens when there’s a dramatic death at the opening-night party, and after threatening messages start appearing around the village, fear takes over. Before long, Porthpella is shocked by a second brutal murder, and whisperings of a ‘serial killer’ start to circulate.
With the press descending on the Arts Trail for all the wrong reasons, the Shell House Detectives find themselves vying with the police to hunt down the killer, fast. As the pair uncover bitter rivalries and hidden agendas, plus a growing list of suspects, the question of who has both the means and the motive makes this the most complex case Ally and Jayden have faced yet.
Can the Shell House Detectives stop the Arts Trail Killer before they strike again?
Springtime on the Cornish coast and Porthpella’s artistic community are throwing open their doors, welcoming visitors to the annual Arts Trail. And this year, celebrity artist Harrison Loveday is the guest of honour.
However, the light mood soon darkens when there’s a dramatic death at the opening-night party, and after threatening messages start appearing around the village, fear takes over. Before long, Porthpella is shocked by a second brutal murder, and whisperings of a ‘serial killer’ start to circulate.
With the press descending on the Arts Trail for all the wrong reasons, the Shell House Detectives find themselves vying with the police to hunt down the killer, fast. As the pair uncover bitter rivalries and hidden agendas, plus a growing list of suspects, the question of who has both the means and the motive makes this the most complex case Ally and Jayden have faced yet.
Can the Shell House Detectives stop the Arts Trail Killer before they strike again?
411 pages, Paperback
Published April 8, 2025
445 people are currently reading
231 people want to read
About the author
Emylia Hall
22 books250 followersEmylia Hall lives with her husband and son in Bristol, where she writes from a hut in the garden and dreams of the sea. THE SHELL HOUSE DETECTIVES is her first crime novel and is inspired by her love of Cornwall’s wild landscape. Emylia has published four previous novels, including Richard and Judy Book Club pick THE BOOK OF SUMMERS and THE THOUSAND LIGHTS HOTEL. Her work has been translated into ten languages and broadcast on BBC Radio 6 Music. She is the founder of Mothership Writers and is a writing coach at The Novelry.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 5, 2025
Fifth in the Shell House Detective Mystery series. I have read them all to date.
Porthpella's arts community is celebrating its annual Arts Trail and this year they have a celebrity artist as the guest of honour. A death at the opening night party sets the scene for threats, fear and more death. Ally and Jayden are hired to help solve the case.
This was a good mystery with plenty of possible culprits and I enjoyed it as much as the four preceding books. My only tiny complaint is that Ally seems to have mentally regressed to her teenage years. And poor Gus! Hoping for a better resolution in the next book!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Porthpella's arts community is celebrating its annual Arts Trail and this year they have a celebrity artist as the guest of honour. A death at the opening night party sets the scene for threats, fear and more death. Ally and Jayden are hired to help solve the case.
This was a good mystery with plenty of possible culprits and I enjoyed it as much as the four preceding books. My only tiny complaint is that Ally seems to have mentally regressed to her teenage years. And poor Gus! Hoping for a better resolution in the next book!
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 3, 2025
Two of my favorite things - art and mystery! This was my first Shell House Detectives book and I loved it. I wasn’t sure at first. The first few chapter which introduced the characters seemed forced and full of awkward, overly poetic expressions, but…. Once the first murder occurred and the sleuthing began I was hooked and couldn’t put it down. I loved the relationship between the two amateur detectives and how they worked together. There were lots of red herrings and side stories and I truly could not solve the multiple murders and other occurrences until it was revealed. I will be looking to read the other books in this series.
April 13, 2025
In this book, the mystery is coiled in the tight grip of several emotional subplots. While some are not directly related to the mystery itself, they support the book well and add more depth to several characters, including one of the protagonists, Ally. The themes of this book, as with all books in this series, are history, love, community, and family, and the author explores them from various angles. And what I found intriguing is even when the themes explore a darker side there is still a tenderness in those moments.
Central to this mystery is the community art event, called the Art Trail. It brings to the book some new characters, all local artists. It also brings a blast from Ally's past, Ray Finch, an old boyfriend from many years ago. This throws regular character, Gus, into a tailspin. I think Gus is written to be that underdog character that the reader just hopes will catch a break. Other characters seem heading for changes in their lives, such as Saffron and even Jayden, the second protagonist. It appears this book was written to be a crossroads for many characters.
Another great addition to an enjoyable cosy mystery series. The mystery had me guessing and the characters are still strong.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.
Central to this mystery is the community art event, called the Art Trail. It brings to the book some new characters, all local artists. It also brings a blast from Ally's past, Ray Finch, an old boyfriend from many years ago. This throws regular character, Gus, into a tailspin. I think Gus is written to be that underdog character that the reader just hopes will catch a break. Other characters seem heading for changes in their lives, such as Saffron and even Jayden, the second protagonist. It appears this book was written to be a crossroads for many characters.
Another great addition to an enjoyable cosy mystery series. The mystery had me guessing and the characters are still strong.
Thanks to the author, the publisher, and Netgalley for providing a free copy of this book for an honest review.
April 26, 2025
Great. Googly. Moogly.
This was just fantastic. Even the parts I struggled with [cue ugly crying at 12:30am] were excellent because I was feeling all the feels the characters were experiencing. There were a couple of parts I didn't love , but the overall book was just so good, with such real-life issues , that I found, in the end, these parts didn't affect me as much as I feared, and that overall, I really loved this one so much, "spots" and all. ;-)
I DO KNOW that as soon as this book was finished, I rushed to see when book 6 was coming out [and actually cheered out-loud when I saw the date] and now I am just sitting with this one, enjoying the excellent writing/storytelling and the solving of this good, puzzling mystery.
Kristin Atherton is just so good as the narrator of these books. She does an excellent job with all the voices [and there are MANY in this book] and I really enjoy how she makes Ally and Jayden come alive, how she can sound like a very annoyed 2 year old Jazzy, and and and...
I highly recommend these audiobooks; the narration is the perfect compliment to these already fantastic books.
Thank you to NetGalley, Emylia Hall, Kristin Atherton - Narrator, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing/Brilliance Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
This was just fantastic. Even the parts I struggled with [cue ugly crying at 12:30am] were excellent because I was feeling all the feels the characters were experiencing. There were a couple of parts I didn't love , but the overall book was just so good, with such real-life issues , that I found, in the end, these parts didn't affect me as much as I feared, and that overall, I really loved this one so much, "spots" and all. ;-)
I DO KNOW that as soon as this book was finished, I rushed to see when book 6 was coming out [and actually cheered out-loud when I saw the date] and now I am just sitting with this one, enjoying the excellent writing/storytelling and the solving of this good, puzzling mystery.
Kristin Atherton is just so good as the narrator of these books. She does an excellent job with all the voices [and there are MANY in this book] and I really enjoy how she makes Ally and Jayden come alive, how she can sound like a very annoyed 2 year old Jazzy, and and and...
I highly recommend these audiobooks; the narration is the perfect compliment to these already fantastic books.
Thank you to NetGalley, Emylia Hall, Kristin Atherton - Narrator, Thomas & Mercer, and Brilliance Publishing/Brilliance Audio for providing the eBook and audiobook ARC's in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2025
Springtime on the Cornish coast and Porthpella’s artistic community are throwing open their doors, welcoming visitors to the annual Arts Trail. And this year, celebrity artist Harrison Loveday is the guest of honour. However, the light mood soon darkens when there’s a dramatic death at the opening-night party, and after threatening messages start appearing around the village, fear takes over. Before long, Porthpella is shocked by a second brutal murder, and whisperings of a ‘serial killer’ start to circulate. The Shell House Detectives find themselves vying with the police to hunt down the killer, fast.
The fifth outing for Ally & Jayden & another very enjoyable cosy mystery. There are twists, turns & red herrings & I was left guessing until all was revealed. I love both Ally & Jayden & how they work together & complement each other. A well written captivating cosy mystery
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The fifth outing for Ally & Jayden & another very enjoyable cosy mystery. There are twists, turns & red herrings & I was left guessing until all was revealed. I love both Ally & Jayden & how they work together & complement each other. A well written captivating cosy mystery
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 1, 2025
This was good, but probably my least favourite of the series.
June 16, 2025
The story opens with a disquieting prologue—a detached, unnerving insight into the killer’s mind. Their view of the media, of fear, and the letter to the editor that will never be sent, set a dark tone. I found myself trying to match this voice with each character as the story progressed—and came up short. That creeping unease stayed with me.
It’s been two years since Ally and Jayden first set up the Shell House Detectives, and while there’s been no case over the winter (Ally has been away visiting her daughter, and preparations are in full swing for the Arts Trail), their lives haven’t stood still. I loved catching up with Ally, Jayden, and Saff.
The Arts Trail brings plenty of drama to Porthpella. At the centre is renowned artist Harrison Loveday—a man who knows how to play people, but whose real motives for returning to the village are far from artistic. His arrogance grated on me, and I had a sense he was holding something back.
The night before the trail opens, a party is held and a death occurs. Ally’s past collides with the present at the party in the form of Raymond Finch – I was heartbroken for Gus! I couldn’t shake my suspicion of Finch and watched him closely—and I’ll admit, part of me wanted him to be the killer! How dare he unsettle Ally and put the brakes on a possible future for her! That’s how emotionally attached I am to the characters …
While Ally and Jayden’s skills proved invaluable in the last case, the police’s respect has clearly waned again. The dynamic between the authorities and the Shell House team remains a point of tension, and it’s frustrating but believable.
Just when you think you’ve got a grip on what’s going on, Emylia Hall drops a twist that makes you question everything. Is that detail a red herring? Or something crucial? You don’t always know—and that’s what makes it so compelling. Did I guess the killer? NO!
One quote from Ally really stayed with me: “When you’re the one left behind in a place, the people you miss are everywhere and nowhere.” It captures the reflective tone that runs underneath the tension.
And then there’s the ending—an absolute cliffhanger. I don’t think it could lead into a case (unless someone was watching) but I’m sure it must be tied into the future somehow. Please don’t leave us with this loose end 🙂 There are family who need answers …
With four more mysteries planned, I can’t wait to see where the Shell House Detectives go next. This series has drawn me in completely—even though it’s not my usual genre. Emylia Hall has crafted a world that feels real, characters I’ve come to care about deeply, and mysteries that never fail to surprise. The Arts Trail Killer is a brilliant addition to the series—twisty, layered, and deeply satisfying.
It’s been two years since Ally and Jayden first set up the Shell House Detectives, and while there’s been no case over the winter (Ally has been away visiting her daughter, and preparations are in full swing for the Arts Trail), their lives haven’t stood still. I loved catching up with Ally, Jayden, and Saff.
The Arts Trail brings plenty of drama to Porthpella. At the centre is renowned artist Harrison Loveday—a man who knows how to play people, but whose real motives for returning to the village are far from artistic. His arrogance grated on me, and I had a sense he was holding something back.
The night before the trail opens, a party is held and a death occurs. Ally’s past collides with the present at the party in the form of Raymond Finch – I was heartbroken for Gus! I couldn’t shake my suspicion of Finch and watched him closely—and I’ll admit, part of me wanted him to be the killer! How dare he unsettle Ally and put the brakes on a possible future for her! That’s how emotionally attached I am to the characters …
While Ally and Jayden’s skills proved invaluable in the last case, the police’s respect has clearly waned again. The dynamic between the authorities and the Shell House team remains a point of tension, and it’s frustrating but believable.
Just when you think you’ve got a grip on what’s going on, Emylia Hall drops a twist that makes you question everything. Is that detail a red herring? Or something crucial? You don’t always know—and that’s what makes it so compelling. Did I guess the killer? NO!
One quote from Ally really stayed with me: “When you’re the one left behind in a place, the people you miss are everywhere and nowhere.” It captures the reflective tone that runs underneath the tension.
And then there’s the ending—an absolute cliffhanger. I don’t think it could lead into a case (unless someone was watching) but I’m sure it must be tied into the future somehow. Please don’t leave us with this loose end 🙂 There are family who need answers …
With four more mysteries planned, I can’t wait to see where the Shell House Detectives go next. This series has drawn me in completely—even though it’s not my usual genre. Emylia Hall has crafted a world that feels real, characters I’ve come to care about deeply, and mysteries that never fail to surprise. The Arts Trail Killer is a brilliant addition to the series—twisty, layered, and deeply satisfying.
April 6, 2025
Things are busy in Porthpella as the town prepares for The Arts Trail. Ally has somewhat reluctantly agreed to participate, opening up her studio to share her work. Jayden has a new baby boy and all that the new birth is bringing to the family (postpartum, sibling rivalry, terrible twos, guilt). Gus has finished his book and dealing with trying to get it published. All that and murder too.
This story gives the reader more of Ally’s backstory as we meet her first love, Ray Finch, who is attending The Arts Trail. He is also one of the people who have hired Ally and Jayden to investigate the murder of the event’s special guest artist. This is huge for the pair as they often end up investigating without pay. Added to that the artist was the second person to be killed in a matter of days.
As both Ally and Jayden deal with their own personal challenges, they also race to find the killer before anyone else dies. Along the way, they check-in and inform regularly the police who on the surface appear to listen to them grudgingly. I like that Ally and Jayden, keep calling them despite how it seems they get on the police’s nerves. The dual does not run off purposely into danger situations thinking only they can solve things.
The characters are very human, very personable, with depth that can be related to. I think the Shell House Detectives are a great pair, Ally with her age, wisdom, and unique perspective. Jayden with his youth, police training, and cultural differences. The two are both fair-minded and balance each others’ strengths and weaknesses well.
In the middle of the murders there are some romance/relationship challenges with favorite friends, Saffron and Gus. Their storylines are expertly woven through, not a distraction, not an awkward aside.
The murders…very well plotted. The way they were executed and the suspects kept me on my toes. I admit, I didn’t figure this one out and I think that is great.
One thing I didn’t get was the ending. I was not quite sure that it meant. I re-listened to it a couple of times and made a couple of guesses. It doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story but did leave me with a puzzle I’d like to solve.
I look forward to the next adventures of Porthpella’s Shell House Detectives.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #ThomasMercer for the opportunity to do an early read and share my thoughts on the story.
Happy Reading!
This story gives the reader more of Ally’s backstory as we meet her first love, Ray Finch, who is attending The Arts Trail. He is also one of the people who have hired Ally and Jayden to investigate the murder of the event’s special guest artist. This is huge for the pair as they often end up investigating without pay. Added to that the artist was the second person to be killed in a matter of days.
As both Ally and Jayden deal with their own personal challenges, they also race to find the killer before anyone else dies. Along the way, they check-in and inform regularly the police who on the surface appear to listen to them grudgingly. I like that Ally and Jayden, keep calling them despite how it seems they get on the police’s nerves. The dual does not run off purposely into danger situations thinking only they can solve things.
The characters are very human, very personable, with depth that can be related to. I think the Shell House Detectives are a great pair, Ally with her age, wisdom, and unique perspective. Jayden with his youth, police training, and cultural differences. The two are both fair-minded and balance each others’ strengths and weaknesses well.
In the middle of the murders there are some romance/relationship challenges with favorite friends, Saffron and Gus. Their storylines are expertly woven through, not a distraction, not an awkward aside.
The murders…very well plotted. The way they were executed and the suspects kept me on my toes. I admit, I didn’t figure this one out and I think that is great.
One thing I didn’t get was the ending. I was not quite sure that it meant. I re-listened to it a couple of times and made a couple of guesses. It doesn’t take away from the overall enjoyment of the story but did leave me with a puzzle I’d like to solve.
I look forward to the next adventures of Porthpella’s Shell House Detectives.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #ThomasMercer for the opportunity to do an early read and share my thoughts on the story.
Happy Reading!
April 22, 2025
The Arts Trail Killer is the fifth in Emylia Hall’s Shell House Detectives series. I know that book 6 is due out later this year and I’m delighted to hear that a further three books are in the pipeline. I do worry for the residents of Porthpella though as it’s getting a bit like Midsomer Murders. The sleepy Cornish town with its close knit community does seem to be experiencing more than its fair share of murders! Although this is the fifth in the series, it can easily be read as a standalone book. However, if you have read any of the others, you will enjoy catching up with the lives of well known recurring characters.
I found this particular story rather compelling as we have an arts trail here in Portobello too. Just like in Porthpella, each year local artists open their homes and studios for a weekend and invite locals to come and view their work. With two murders, threatening emails and some unsettling grafitti asking ‘who’s next’ I couldn’t help but think of how my own community would feel if something awful like that happened here!
As ever, the Shell House Detectives Jayden and Ally find themselves at the heart of the investigation. With Ally herself an artist taking part in the Arts Trail, it seems very personal and close to home. I like the relationship between these two and the way they approach investigations in a different way from the police which always leads them to the solution. On this occasion, the police weren’t far behind but it was definitely Ally and Jayden’s work which cracked the case.
There is a particularly moving and sensitively written strand of the story relating to Jayden and his wife Kat as they welcome a new arrival to the family. The epilogue is also particularly touching.
Kristin Atherton returns as the narrator of this book and I really enjoy her narration. She has a very pleasant voice to listen to and makes each character’s voice so distinct. She’s really good at conveying the mood of the narrative and capturing the emotions of the characters.
The Arts Trail Killer is another entertaining mystery in a scenic setting with great characters. With many possible suspects and lots of clues to keep you guessing, it’s a book I thoroughly enjoyed and I look forward to catching up with Ally and Jayden and the rest of the Porthpella regulars soon.
I found this particular story rather compelling as we have an arts trail here in Portobello too. Just like in Porthpella, each year local artists open their homes and studios for a weekend and invite locals to come and view their work. With two murders, threatening emails and some unsettling grafitti asking ‘who’s next’ I couldn’t help but think of how my own community would feel if something awful like that happened here!
As ever, the Shell House Detectives Jayden and Ally find themselves at the heart of the investigation. With Ally herself an artist taking part in the Arts Trail, it seems very personal and close to home. I like the relationship between these two and the way they approach investigations in a different way from the police which always leads them to the solution. On this occasion, the police weren’t far behind but it was definitely Ally and Jayden’s work which cracked the case.
There is a particularly moving and sensitively written strand of the story relating to Jayden and his wife Kat as they welcome a new arrival to the family. The epilogue is also particularly touching.
Kristin Atherton returns as the narrator of this book and I really enjoy her narration. She has a very pleasant voice to listen to and makes each character’s voice so distinct. She’s really good at conveying the mood of the narrative and capturing the emotions of the characters.
The Arts Trail Killer is another entertaining mystery in a scenic setting with great characters. With many possible suspects and lots of clues to keep you guessing, it’s a book I thoroughly enjoyed and I look forward to catching up with Ally and Jayden and the rest of the Porthpella regulars soon.
April 13, 2025
Its time for the Porthpella annual arts festival and this year the organisers have managed to get a famous artist to return to his Cornish roots for the exhibition.
Harrison Loveday was born in Cornwall, but left when he was just a child. He feels no particular draw to the place, much preferring his life in Italy, but this year the invitation fits with his personal agenda so he decides to accept and dashes off a few lacklustre pictures for an exhibition.
As a local artist of some renown, Ally is one of the artists on the Arts Trail - a guided walk between local artists' studios - and has been invited to the opening drinks reception, taking along Gus as her plus one. But imagine her surprise when one of the other guests turns out to be none other than her first boyfriend Ray, they both knew Harrison when they were at art school.
Tragedy strikes when Harrison's agent drops dead in the middle of the party - the local police detective immediately suspects foul play, but who could it be? So few people knew her. Then graffiti appears daubed on some outdoor artwork and on a poster for the arts trail - is there a serial killer terrorising the town or is it just someone with a grudge against the arts trail?
There seem to be lots of suspects, especially when there is a second murder, and the Shell House detectives are called in by the arts trail's organisers to identify the vandal and restore faith in the exhibitions.
Another strong book in this cosy series, although I can't help but feel that having set up two potential budding/future romances the author is rowing back and introducing new elements *and I don't want it*. Also, I love, love, loved the covers for the previous books, they were striking and different and instantly recognisable - why suddenly change it?
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release.
Harrison Loveday was born in Cornwall, but left when he was just a child. He feels no particular draw to the place, much preferring his life in Italy, but this year the invitation fits with his personal agenda so he decides to accept and dashes off a few lacklustre pictures for an exhibition.
As a local artist of some renown, Ally is one of the artists on the Arts Trail - a guided walk between local artists' studios - and has been invited to the opening drinks reception, taking along Gus as her plus one. But imagine her surprise when one of the other guests turns out to be none other than her first boyfriend Ray, they both knew Harrison when they were at art school.
Tragedy strikes when Harrison's agent drops dead in the middle of the party - the local police detective immediately suspects foul play, but who could it be? So few people knew her. Then graffiti appears daubed on some outdoor artwork and on a poster for the arts trail - is there a serial killer terrorising the town or is it just someone with a grudge against the arts trail?
There seem to be lots of suspects, especially when there is a second murder, and the Shell House detectives are called in by the arts trail's organisers to identify the vandal and restore faith in the exhibitions.
Another strong book in this cosy series, although I can't help but feel that having set up two potential budding/future romances the author is rowing back and introducing new elements *and I don't want it*. Also, I love, love, loved the covers for the previous books, they were striking and different and instantly recognisable - why suddenly change it?
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release.
April 9, 2025
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Emylia Hall for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Arts Trail Killer coming out April 8, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Springtime on the Cornish coast and Porthpella’s artistic community are throwing open their doors, welcoming visitors to the annual Arts Trail. And this year, celebrity artist Harrison Loveday is the guest of honour.
However, the light mood soon darkens when there’s a dramatic death at the opening-night party, and after threatening messages start appearing around the village, fear takes over. Before long, Porthpella is shocked by a second brutal murder, and whisperings of a ‘serial killer’ start to circulate.
With the press descending on the Arts Trail for all the wrong reasons, the Shell House Detectives find themselves vying with the police to hunt down the killer, fast. As the pair uncover bitter rivalries and hidden agendas, plus a growing list of suspects, the question of who has both the means and the motive makes this the most complex case Ally and Jayden have faced yet.
Can the Shell House Detectives stop the Arts Trail Killer before they strike again?
I really enjoyed the book right before this one in the series. So I was excited to get this book as well. I really enjoy murder mysteries. I thought it was a little on the long side. I really enjoy the characters though. So I will definitely check out more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys murder mysteries!
Springtime on the Cornish coast and Porthpella’s artistic community are throwing open their doors, welcoming visitors to the annual Arts Trail. And this year, celebrity artist Harrison Loveday is the guest of honour.
However, the light mood soon darkens when there’s a dramatic death at the opening-night party, and after threatening messages start appearing around the village, fear takes over. Before long, Porthpella is shocked by a second brutal murder, and whisperings of a ‘serial killer’ start to circulate.
With the press descending on the Arts Trail for all the wrong reasons, the Shell House Detectives find themselves vying with the police to hunt down the killer, fast. As the pair uncover bitter rivalries and hidden agendas, plus a growing list of suspects, the question of who has both the means and the motive makes this the most complex case Ally and Jayden have faced yet.
Can the Shell House Detectives stop the Arts Trail Killer before they strike again?
I really enjoyed the book right before this one in the series. So I was excited to get this book as well. I really enjoy murder mysteries. I thought it was a little on the long side. I really enjoy the characters though. So I will definitely check out more books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys murder mysteries!
March 24, 2025
The Arts Trail Killer
Publishes April 8, 2025
The Arts Trail Killer by Emylia Hall narrated by Kristin Atherton. This was an amazing mystery/thriller. One that pulls you and has a tight grip until the very end. Springtime on the Cornish coast welcomes visitors to the annual Arts Trail, but instead of a welcoming and happy time the mood drastically changes when there is a dramatic death at the opening night party. Threatening messsges begin popping up all over the village, soon enough fear sets in and then a second brutal murder happened. The Shell House Detectives find themselves in the middle of these crimes with the police as they try to hunt down the killer as fast as possible. A growing list of subjects, rivalries and hidden agendas are unhidden, but the question is who has the means and motive to commit these crimes.
This was my first Shell House Detectives mystery and it did not disappoint. I loved this book, it’s the perfect cozy murder mystery. I didn’t realize until after I finished this that it was part of a series but even though it is, I was able to listen and know what was going on in this book and will 100% be going back to listen to the rest of this series. There were so many twists and it was emotional and it just kept building every minute that passed in the book.
Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC audiobook. This review is voluntary and all my own words.
Publishes April 8, 2025
The Arts Trail Killer by Emylia Hall narrated by Kristin Atherton. This was an amazing mystery/thriller. One that pulls you and has a tight grip until the very end. Springtime on the Cornish coast welcomes visitors to the annual Arts Trail, but instead of a welcoming and happy time the mood drastically changes when there is a dramatic death at the opening night party. Threatening messsges begin popping up all over the village, soon enough fear sets in and then a second brutal murder happened. The Shell House Detectives find themselves in the middle of these crimes with the police as they try to hunt down the killer as fast as possible. A growing list of subjects, rivalries and hidden agendas are unhidden, but the question is who has the means and motive to commit these crimes.
This was my first Shell House Detectives mystery and it did not disappoint. I loved this book, it’s the perfect cozy murder mystery. I didn’t realize until after I finished this that it was part of a series but even though it is, I was able to listen and know what was going on in this book and will 100% be going back to listen to the rest of this series. There were so many twists and it was emotional and it just kept building every minute that passed in the book.
Thank you Netgalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC audiobook. This review is voluntary and all my own words.
April 17, 2025
"The Arts Trail Killer" is book #5 in "A Shell House Detectives Mystery" by Emylia Hall.
Told from multiple points of view, readers are drawn into the search for a killer during the annual Arts Trail. The night before the event opens, artists and their guests have gathered for a cocktail party. Before the evening is over, a woman is dead - poisoned. The next morning, there are vandalism signs of "who's next?" that set the arts community and the town on edge. A second murder is even more unnerving.
Ally and Jayden are called on by a variety of people to investigate. The police have their own ideas of course, but the Shell House Detectives are doing their own version of detective work - sharing with the police when needed.
It's a tightly woven tale that takes some surprising turns that will keep readers turning the pages and trying to sort out who is behind all of this and why.
Along with the murders and vandalism, there are changes and developments in various relationships with core characters.
The relationships of the main characters feel realistic - even in the ebbs and flows. Dialogue and reactions feel realistic.
A thoroughly engaging page turner in this wonderful series from Emylia Hall.
Told from multiple points of view, readers are drawn into the search for a killer during the annual Arts Trail. The night before the event opens, artists and their guests have gathered for a cocktail party. Before the evening is over, a woman is dead - poisoned. The next morning, there are vandalism signs of "who's next?" that set the arts community and the town on edge. A second murder is even more unnerving.
Ally and Jayden are called on by a variety of people to investigate. The police have their own ideas of course, but the Shell House Detectives are doing their own version of detective work - sharing with the police when needed.
It's a tightly woven tale that takes some surprising turns that will keep readers turning the pages and trying to sort out who is behind all of this and why.
Along with the murders and vandalism, there are changes and developments in various relationships with core characters.
The relationships of the main characters feel realistic - even in the ebbs and flows. Dialogue and reactions feel realistic.
A thoroughly engaging page turner in this wonderful series from Emylia Hall.
March 17, 2025
The Arts Trail Killer is the fifth book in Emylia Hall's Shell House Detectives series. The village of Porthpella is preparing for their annual spring tradition, the Art Trail. The celebration turns deadly when a man Is found murdered. Soon threats begin appearing and a second death occurs. The Shell House Detectives are hired to investigate the crimes by some of the artists involved in the Art Trail. Jayden and Ally square off against the police department to find the killer.
This is such an enjoyable series. The small village on the Cornish cliffs setting is wonderful and I love the community that Emylia has built. The books always have a nice mixture of Ally and Jayden's personal lives and mystery. They are a great team and I love that we have a duo that is a man and a woman that are friends and not in a relationship. The mystery had some nice twists. I can't wait to see where the story goes next. Kristin Atherton goes a great job with the narration. I highly recommend getting the audiobooks for this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
This is such an enjoyable series. The small village on the Cornish cliffs setting is wonderful and I love the community that Emylia has built. The books always have a nice mixture of Ally and Jayden's personal lives and mystery. They are a great team and I love that we have a duo that is a man and a woman that are friends and not in a relationship. The mystery had some nice twists. I can't wait to see where the story goes next. Kristin Atherton goes a great job with the narration. I highly recommend getting the audiobooks for this series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.
March 18, 2025
A cozy murder mystery that takes place in a small town on the Cornish coast (UK) the weekend of the Arts Trail where tourists and locals alike get to visit working artists in their studios. This year there is a celebrity guest artist, which means fewer spots for the town’s local artists. The action starts at the invitation-only opening reception, when the famous artists’ clingy gallery representative dies from ingesting poison.
In earlier books in this series (which I haven’t read), we were introduced to a crime-solving detective duo known locally as the Shell House Detectives. Jayden now has a second child with his wife, whilst Ally is still getting over the loss of her husband. They, of course, get involved and seem to work companionably with the local police. Themes of postpartum depression and loves lost and found figure prominently. A solid mystery with a few twists and a solid ending.
My thanks to the author, publisher, producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #TheArtsTrailKiller for review purposes. Publication date is 8 April 2025.
In earlier books in this series (which I haven’t read), we were introduced to a crime-solving detective duo known locally as the Shell House Detectives. Jayden now has a second child with his wife, whilst Ally is still getting over the loss of her husband. They, of course, get involved and seem to work companionably with the local police. Themes of postpartum depression and loves lost and found figure prominently. A solid mystery with a few twists and a solid ending.
My thanks to the author, publisher, producer, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook #TheArtsTrailKiller for review purposes. Publication date is 8 April 2025.
April 24, 2025
This is the best of the series of Shell House Detective stories yet. We learn a bit more about the main characters in Porthpella as we're guided through a few grisly crimes.
The Porthpella arts community is hosting an arts trail exhibition to showcase local Cornish talent, and hopefully with a view to selling some of their work. They have a main attraction, an artist who had been born in Falmouth, but had moved to London years previously. The artist and his business manager both die quite dramatically, and a young graffiti artist is attacked, but lives. There are quite a few suspects, all with their own reasons for murder, but who also have strong, unbreakable alibis. Or do they? Scratch the surface, and you'll be faintly surprised at what is revealed.
For the first time, I actually had a strong inkling as to who the murderer was, but only after a few of the other suspects were crossed off my list. The reader also learns more details about Porthpella's residents, that starts rounding them out as 'real people'. A really enjoyable story.
The Porthpella arts community is hosting an arts trail exhibition to showcase local Cornish talent, and hopefully with a view to selling some of their work. They have a main attraction, an artist who had been born in Falmouth, but had moved to London years previously. The artist and his business manager both die quite dramatically, and a young graffiti artist is attacked, but lives. There are quite a few suspects, all with their own reasons for murder, but who also have strong, unbreakable alibis. Or do they? Scratch the surface, and you'll be faintly surprised at what is revealed.
For the first time, I actually had a strong inkling as to who the murderer was, but only after a few of the other suspects were crossed off my list. The reader also learns more details about Porthpella's residents, that starts rounding them out as 'real people'. A really enjoyable story.
April 16, 2025
Ally Bright is an artist using plastic waste from the coast and with traumatized ex-cop Jayden Weston they are the Shell House Detectives who are on call by their friends and relatives. I don't usually equate artists with threats and murder, especially in a village in coastal Cornwall. But that is what happens and it is Ally and Jaydens task to dig around the convoluted clues and relationships to solve it and bring whoever to the authorities. Another fine read in this addictive series.
The characters who keep bringing me back to this series are so very real.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital proof from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.
#TheArtsTrailKiller by @emyliahall_author #ShellHouseDetectivesMysteriesBk5
#cosycrime #cozymystery #crimefiction #detectivefiction #bookstagram #newbooks #cornwall #murdermystery #artists #cornishcoast #surfingwaves #privateinvestigatormysteries
The characters who keep bringing me back to this series are so very real.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected digital proof from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley.
#TheArtsTrailKiller by @emyliahall_author #ShellHouseDetectivesMysteriesBk5
#cosycrime #cozymystery #crimefiction #detectivefiction #bookstagram #newbooks #cornwall #murdermystery #artists #cornishcoast #surfingwaves #privateinvestigatormysteries
Read
April 24, 2025I’m not sure about reading the rest of this series. Ally and Jayden always identify the killer whilst Mullins and skinner are always one step behind. In this one the “famous” person to hold an exhibition as part of the arts trail. Whilst at the reception his friend is poisoned and then the following evening he is murdered in his rented house. Emails and Graffiti begin to appear. Is it the same person? In the end it was Doreen, whom I thought it was but thought it was too obvious🤷♀️🤷♀️. Turns out I was right as she wanted to svange “Harrison - “famous”person who wronged Donald’s sister but leaving her when she was pregnant. Doreen lived him and killed Harrison as she thought Donald would be delighted and relieved he was out of this world 🤷♀️🤷♀️🤷♀️. As seaways it leaves Ally and Gus’s relationship up in the air (complicated by an old flame Ray) and there is news about Jayden and Cat which isn’t shared.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 8, 2025
This fifth installment in Emylia Hall’s Shell House Detectives series doesn’t disappoint. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of the Cornish coast, it weaves together art, mystery, and the comforting familiarity of a close-knit community.
What I love most about this series is its perfect balance—gripping crimes that keep you guessing, paired with warmth, wit, and characters who feel like old friends. In this one, the stakes feel a little higher, the emotions run deeper, and the mystery kept me hooked right to the end. After five books, I am so invested in these characters - Jayden, Ali, Cat, Mullins, Gus, Saffron…all massively have my heart. The ending had me so emotional.
If you’re after a cosy crime that doesn’t sacrifice clever plotting or emotional depth, this one’s for you. I’ll be counting the days till the next case lands in Porthpella 🐚🌊
What I love most about this series is its perfect balance—gripping crimes that keep you guessing, paired with warmth, wit, and characters who feel like old friends. In this one, the stakes feel a little higher, the emotions run deeper, and the mystery kept me hooked right to the end. After five books, I am so invested in these characters - Jayden, Ali, Cat, Mullins, Gus, Saffron…all massively have my heart. The ending had me so emotional.
If you’re after a cosy crime that doesn’t sacrifice clever plotting or emotional depth, this one’s for you. I’ll be counting the days till the next case lands in Porthpella 🐚🌊
May 4, 2025
Porthpella is holding the annual arts trail where local artists and some from further afield showcase their work .
Harrison Loveday is a special guest for the event and he he is a person who you either love or hate .
At the opening night party there is a death and then this leads to malicious emails and graffitied sprayed across wall art .
Someone is certainly not happy about the art trail and is doing their upmost to derail it .
The Shell Detective Agency which consists of Ally and Jayden are asked to investigate the suspicious and murderous events that are taking place.
The relationship between Ally and Jayden is a special one and gets stronger with every new case .
The writing is excellent and the story kept my interest throughout .
A great addition to the series and look forward to the Shell Detective’s next case .
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.
Harrison Loveday is a special guest for the event and he he is a person who you either love or hate .
At the opening night party there is a death and then this leads to malicious emails and graffitied sprayed across wall art .
Someone is certainly not happy about the art trail and is doing their upmost to derail it .
The Shell Detective Agency which consists of Ally and Jayden are asked to investigate the suspicious and murderous events that are taking place.
The relationship between Ally and Jayden is a special one and gets stronger with every new case .
The writing is excellent and the story kept my interest throughout .
A great addition to the series and look forward to the Shell Detective’s next case .
Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer.
May 8, 2025
Thank you to Brilliance Publishing| Brilliance Audio and Netgalley for this ALC in exchange for an honest review.
DNFed at 45%
I generally try to always push through a book, even if I'm not enjoying it very much, but sadly I just did not enjoy The Arts Trial Killer by Emylia Hall. The plot is achingly slow and lacks a sense of urgency and danger I expect with a murder mystery. That and the somewhat bland and average characters made it really hard to have any interest in what was going on. The only reason I didn't dnf sooner was the audiobook. The narration was wonderful. The narrator's voice really added some emotional depth to the otherwise bland characters and helped me stay focused on the story. That being said, I still just couldn't push through this one. But if you like a slower paced murder mystery focused around the arts then I'd still recommend giving this a try.
DNFed at 45%
I generally try to always push through a book, even if I'm not enjoying it very much, but sadly I just did not enjoy The Arts Trial Killer by Emylia Hall. The plot is achingly slow and lacks a sense of urgency and danger I expect with a murder mystery. That and the somewhat bland and average characters made it really hard to have any interest in what was going on. The only reason I didn't dnf sooner was the audiobook. The narration was wonderful. The narrator's voice really added some emotional depth to the otherwise bland characters and helped me stay focused on the story. That being said, I still just couldn't push through this one. But if you like a slower paced murder mystery focused around the arts then I'd still recommend giving this a try.
March 18, 2025
The fifth book in the Shell House Detective series; although you don't have to have read the previous four, I'd recommend it because the series is wonderful!
The annual Arts Trail hits a major snag when one of the gallery owners is found dead - and then people start getting threats and one of the artists is killed, too.
Jayden and Ally (the Shell House Detectives) are commissioned to find out who's behind the threats and the murders - and they have a vested interest, as Ally's also one of the artists.
These books get better and better - there's a lovely community feel to it, the setting's gorgeous and the characters are very relatable. Lots of good twists, and lots of emotional depth with it. Thoroughly recommended.
The annual Arts Trail hits a major snag when one of the gallery owners is found dead - and then people start getting threats and one of the artists is killed, too.
Jayden and Ally (the Shell House Detectives) are commissioned to find out who's behind the threats and the murders - and they have a vested interest, as Ally's also one of the artists.
These books get better and better - there's a lovely community feel to it, the setting's gorgeous and the characters are very relatable. Lots of good twists, and lots of emotional depth with it. Thoroughly recommended.
June 1, 2025
I'm really enjoying this series about the Shell House Detectives (this one is #5). In this installment, Aly and Jayden investigate the murder of an artist during a local art fair of which Aly is a participant. The author has done a good job of continuing to develop the characters and the setting is great. Lately it seems like a lot of authors are trying to write 'cozy' mysteries and do a decent job of creating characters and settings but the mysteries themselves are not great. This author does a good job of writing a mystery that actually makes sense and provides the reader with a satisfying conclusion.
March 20, 2025
This cozy mystery has it all - British seaside village, community art festival and murder…. murders. The She’ll House Detectives are on the case but can they find the killer before there are more victims? This is the 5th book by Emylia Hall in the series. I think it would help to read the previous books to understand the characters better. I enjoyed it as a standalone book but missed out on the characters backstory. Kristin Atherton did an excellent job with the narration.
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for letting me read this ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley & Brilliance Publishing | Brilliance Audio for letting me read this ARC.
April 3, 2025
Ali and Jayden, the Shell House Detectives are back, and this series just seems to get better.
Set in Porthpella in Cornwall where the annual Arts Trail is just starting, this year there is a featured artist, someone that Ali knew from her art school days. Then there is death, vandalism and threatening emails, the Arts Trail committee hire Ali and Jayden to find out who is responsible.
This is a well written book with suspects aplenty and full of twists, I really enjoyed reading it.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
Set in Porthpella in Cornwall where the annual Arts Trail is just starting, this year there is a featured artist, someone that Ali knew from her art school days. Then there is death, vandalism and threatening emails, the Arts Trail committee hire Ali and Jayden to find out who is responsible.
This is a well written book with suspects aplenty and full of twists, I really enjoyed reading it.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
April 6, 2025
This is the latest in the excellent Shell House Detectives series, set in Cornwall. Ally and Jayden once again find themselves tangled up in a mystery that initially involves a death at a party, and then a second death. Brilliantly paced and plotted, we also find out more about the characters that have started to feel like old friends. I love this series and hope that Emylia will write many more as it's so good.
With grateful thanks to Emylia Hall, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for my advance e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
With grateful thanks to Emylia Hall, Thomas & Mercer and NetGalley for my advance e-copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
April 16, 2025
I love all the Shell House Detectives books. They are really well written and intricately plotted. This latest one is well up to standard. The characters are so believable and relatable (even Mullins) and they continue to develop. I think 'Cosy Murder/Crime/ Mystery' is a bit of a misnomer. Murder is horrible, and these books don't shy away from the horror. This one also ends on a bit of a cliffhanger regarding Ally's, and Saffron's, romantic relationships ... Can't wait for the next installment.
August 31, 2025
"...he made his name in the street art scene, heading west three years ago. 'Artists bang on about the light in Cornwall,' he said in one piece, 'but there's a whole lot of dark here too.'"
The fifth book in this cosy, Cornish crime series sees the private Shell House Detectives investigating murders relating to a local arts trail. Plenty of suspects, plenty of intrigue and progression for main, returning characters, Ally, Jayden, Saffron and Mullins, makes this a great edition to the series. Highly recommend! Book six, The High Tide Murder, is due on 4th November.
The fifth book in this cosy, Cornish crime series sees the private Shell House Detectives investigating murders relating to a local arts trail. Plenty of suspects, plenty of intrigue and progression for main, returning characters, Ally, Jayden, Saffron and Mullins, makes this a great edition to the series. Highly recommend! Book six, The High Tide Murder, is due on 4th November.
March 29, 2025
The official opening night for Porthpella’s Art Trail is upended when a guest dies, possibly poisoned. The police set to work but so do the Shell House Detectives. This part of the Cornish coast becomes a fearful place to live.
Well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Good characters in this twisty murder mystery. Many are in danger but who from and why? There seems to be a long list of suspects but will more die before the killer is caught?
Well written and well narrated novel (I listened to the audiobook). Good characters in this twisty murder mystery. Many are in danger but who from and why? There seems to be a long list of suspects but will more die before the killer is caught?
June 13, 2025
A Really Good Series
The annual arts trail is about to start in Porthpella but at the opening nights party there is a suspicious death. Shell House detectives Ally and Jayden want to help with the investigation but with Jayden busy with his family and Ally shaken with a face from the past, will they be able to put their minds to it? I really enjoy this series and am already looking forward to the next in the series.
The annual arts trail is about to start in Porthpella but at the opening nights party there is a suspicious death. Shell House detectives Ally and Jayden want to help with the investigation but with Jayden busy with his family and Ally shaken with a face from the past, will they be able to put their minds to it? I really enjoy this series and am already looking forward to the next in the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews