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Eve Mallow Mystery #14
Mystery at Hideaway House
Amateur sleuth Eve Mallow is enjoying a very well-deserved holiday in a charming cottage with her new husband. But murder never takes a break…
Nestled among the trees of a gorgeous country estate, Hideaway House is the perfect place for a holiday – complete with roof terrace, cosy fireplace and four-poster bed. It’s been a labour of love for charismatic Duncan Blake, who shot to fame thanks to his TV shows restoring old buildings, and he’s hoping his hard work will pay off with a good review.
Despite her misgivings – Eve can’t be bought! – she packs up Robin and dachshund Gus and heads to Kesham. But from the beginning it’s the holiday from hell. First, she finds a threatening note warning her that Hideaway House has history…
And then Duncan is found dead at the bottom of a ditch.
But who wanted to demolish the building expert? Was it his keen apprentice, who was working for free? His wife, who gave up her dreams to follow his? Or the owner of nearby Kesham Hall, whose relationship with Duncan was on decidedly rocky foundations?
Brick by brick, Eve gathers her a missing murder weapon, a long-lost daughter, and the secret sabotage of Duncan’s plans. But can she nail the killer before she digs herself into a deadly hole?
A completely gripping English cozy mystery, full of charm and puzzling clues, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Agatha Christie and Emylia Hall.
Nestled among the trees of a gorgeous country estate, Hideaway House is the perfect place for a holiday – complete with roof terrace, cosy fireplace and four-poster bed. It’s been a labour of love for charismatic Duncan Blake, who shot to fame thanks to his TV shows restoring old buildings, and he’s hoping his hard work will pay off with a good review.
Despite her misgivings – Eve can’t be bought! – she packs up Robin and dachshund Gus and heads to Kesham. But from the beginning it’s the holiday from hell. First, she finds a threatening note warning her that Hideaway House has history…
And then Duncan is found dead at the bottom of a ditch.
But who wanted to demolish the building expert? Was it his keen apprentice, who was working for free? His wife, who gave up her dreams to follow his? Or the owner of nearby Kesham Hall, whose relationship with Duncan was on decidedly rocky foundations?
Brick by brick, Eve gathers her a missing murder weapon, a long-lost daughter, and the secret sabotage of Duncan’s plans. But can she nail the killer before she digs herself into a deadly hole?
A completely gripping English cozy mystery, full of charm and puzzling clues, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Agatha Christie and Emylia Hall.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
308 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2025
925 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
Clare Chase
34 books315 followersClare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
May 8, 2025
The fourteenth book in the Eve Mallow Mystery series finds Eve and her husband enjoying a short break staying in a rental cottage on a country estate. Eve has the job of writing a review for the property and all seems to be going well until the first dead body is found. Luckily for Eve they are not too far from home so her sleuthing back up team of friends are still around to help her investigate.
The mystery was good and I always enjoy the characters, especially Gus. There were a number of suspects and I occasionally felt that the book became bogged down by too much discussion about who was the most likely candidate. Three stars from me because I felt the need for a bit more action to keep things moving along.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The mystery was good and I always enjoy the characters, especially Gus. There were a number of suspects and I occasionally felt that the book became bogged down by too much discussion about who was the most likely candidate. Three stars from me because I felt the need for a bit more action to keep things moving along.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 3, 2025
4.5 Stars
Nestled among the trees of a gorgeous country estate, Hideaway House is the perfect place for a holiday – complete with roof terrace, cosy fireplace and four-poster bed. It’s been a labour of love for charismatic Duncan Blake, who shot to fame thanks to his TV shows restoring old buildings, and he’s hoping his hard work will pay off with a good review. Eve has been asked to write a review of the holiday let so she packs up Robin and dachshund Gus and heads to Kesham. Things don’t turn out as planned, when Duncan is found dead at the bottom of a ditch.
The fourteenth book in the series & I’ve loved every one of them & this was no exception. I love Eve who is nosy to a fault, I also love the cast of regulars especially Robin, Viv & of course Gus. There aren’t too many suspects but there are twists, turns & red herrings. I honestly didn’t want any of the suspects to be guilty after the second murder as I liked them all & felt the bad guys had been the ones to suffer. I didn’t guess who the killer was & when they were revealed felt sympathy for them & felt, in many ways they’d been driven to it. A well written engrossing cosy mystery
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Nestled among the trees of a gorgeous country estate, Hideaway House is the perfect place for a holiday – complete with roof terrace, cosy fireplace and four-poster bed. It’s been a labour of love for charismatic Duncan Blake, who shot to fame thanks to his TV shows restoring old buildings, and he’s hoping his hard work will pay off with a good review. Eve has been asked to write a review of the holiday let so she packs up Robin and dachshund Gus and heads to Kesham. Things don’t turn out as planned, when Duncan is found dead at the bottom of a ditch.
The fourteenth book in the series & I’ve loved every one of them & this was no exception. I love Eve who is nosy to a fault, I also love the cast of regulars especially Robin, Viv & of course Gus. There aren’t too many suspects but there are twists, turns & red herrings. I honestly didn’t want any of the suspects to be guilty after the second murder as I liked them all & felt the bad guys had been the ones to suffer. I didn’t guess who the killer was & when they were revealed felt sympathy for them & felt, in many ways they’d been driven to it. A well written engrossing cosy mystery
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
March 16, 2025
Maybe obituary writer Eve Mallow should begin taking her holidays further afield as staying close to home means there's always a body to discover! The turreted and bijou Hideaway House, on the outskirts of Saxford St Peter, is a luxury holiday home with a difference, and when a body is discovered, Eve is determined to investigate. Secrets abound, however, and no one is revealing everything they know. Anxious to protect those she cares about Eve is devastated when another body is discovered, but can she sift through the clues in time to prevent any more deaths, or does the killer have others in their sights?
Book fourteen in this great series is an enjoyable read with a lot to like, although it does seem that every time Eve takes a break close to home, someone dies! The advantage of this is that the regulars are always present and correct, with Moira once again stealing the show with her gossip and preconceived ideas, which I love. The victim was described brilliantly throughout, and it was so easy to dislike them as all the secrets began to emerge. I wasn't close to guessing whodunnit as I had discarded them early on.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this very much, as always.
Book fourteen in this great series is an enjoyable read with a lot to like, although it does seem that every time Eve takes a break close to home, someone dies! The advantage of this is that the regulars are always present and correct, with Moira once again stealing the show with her gossip and preconceived ideas, which I love. The victim was described brilliantly throughout, and it was so easy to dislike them as all the secrets began to emerge. I wasn't close to guessing whodunnit as I had discarded them early on.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I enjoyed this very much, as always.
May 6, 2025
Well... here we are... book 14 and still as fresh as the proverbial! Obviously, for maximum enjoyment, especially wrt the characters, their backstories and progression, you'd be better off starting from the beginning of this, most excellent, series, although the main story herein is self contained.
So... we start this time with Eve adding another string to her journalistic bow. That of holiday home reviewer, and it is the titular Hideaway House which is her first property. It is situated on an estate and has been lovingly restored by Duncan Blake who is famous for his restoration TV show. So... she, Robin, and Gus up sticks and move in. But this book would be a very short and boring one if the holiday went according to plan... no, soon after moving in, she finds a threatening note. There's more to come on that theme, as you will no doubt expect if you've read this series before. Also, the characters, well... there's definitely a healthy splodge of secrets, lies, duplicitous behaviour, and more from pretty much all of them. As Eve discovers from her Eve's-dropping (see what I did there, #notsorry) and from what she also gleans from her spies - the usual suspects.
And then Duncan is found bludgeoned to death...
And that's enough to whet your appetite... suffice to say that it's shenanigans all the way through, as you would expect, with Eve hot on the trail of whatever in the heck is actually going on. She really excels herself in this book, especially her tracking and following skills!
Gus, as usual, plays hit part too. I do love the wee fellow and he is so good at what he does, what he adds to the books. And I am loving the fact that Eve and Robin can now investigate together :)
As with all this author's books, there's a lot going on. But she juggles everything with the greatest of skill, matching pacing with narrative all the way through. And with no superfluous waffle or padding, it all gets on with itself rather well.
Series characters all progress nicely, as per usual, and the episode ones are well crafted and play their parts well too. I especially love reconnecting with the other villagers that Eve ropes in to help her investigations. And the ending, when we eventually get there, is perfect!
All in all, another winner from one of my favourite, go-to, authors, and series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... we start this time with Eve adding another string to her journalistic bow. That of holiday home reviewer, and it is the titular Hideaway House which is her first property. It is situated on an estate and has been lovingly restored by Duncan Blake who is famous for his restoration TV show. So... she, Robin, and Gus up sticks and move in. But this book would be a very short and boring one if the holiday went according to plan... no, soon after moving in, she finds a threatening note. There's more to come on that theme, as you will no doubt expect if you've read this series before. Also, the characters, well... there's definitely a healthy splodge of secrets, lies, duplicitous behaviour, and more from pretty much all of them. As Eve discovers from her Eve's-dropping (see what I did there, #notsorry) and from what she also gleans from her spies - the usual suspects.
And then Duncan is found bludgeoned to death...
And that's enough to whet your appetite... suffice to say that it's shenanigans all the way through, as you would expect, with Eve hot on the trail of whatever in the heck is actually going on. She really excels herself in this book, especially her tracking and following skills!
Gus, as usual, plays hit part too. I do love the wee fellow and he is so good at what he does, what he adds to the books. And I am loving the fact that Eve and Robin can now investigate together :)
As with all this author's books, there's a lot going on. But she juggles everything with the greatest of skill, matching pacing with narrative all the way through. And with no superfluous waffle or padding, it all gets on with itself rather well.
Series characters all progress nicely, as per usual, and the episode ones are well crafted and play their parts well too. I especially love reconnecting with the other villagers that Eve ropes in to help her investigations. And the ending, when we eventually get there, is perfect!
All in all, another winner from one of my favourite, go-to, authors, and series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
March 21, 2025
How far would you go to achieve a long time goal?
Although I occasionally find myself annoyed with Eve for her obsessive curiosity and use of her job, writing obituaries, to question suspects, I also enjoy this series immensely. What can I say, I'm a sucker for character driven books and this series has a set of well developed regular characters and even the background of suspects seems to be nicely fleshed out. As a result, it's understandable why Eve sometimes finds it hard to approach someone as a suspect when, well, that person is a friend, someone she likes. Everyone has secrets, however, and, oh, my, there are a ton of them in this one. What seems like a normal renovation job leads to murder and explosive secrets unraveling families and associates. Nothing simple about this one.
Who killed Duncan Blake? I won't detail the plot but it is full of twists and turns involving those secrets, obsessions with the past, affairs of the heart, shady business deals, shattered hopes and dreams, families being ripped apart, adorable, much-loved children, and it seems like everyone is lying. How will Eve sort out who did it when even the innocent may be protecting others? It was nice to not only see that Eve has gotten good about having backup but that Eve and new husband Robin work so well together, even if it did remind me that I seem to have missed a few books in the series. Robin was still sort of keeping a low profile last book I read, now they're married and he's able to be open, even if his gardening know-how doesn't seem to have dimmed. They were invited to Hideaway House so Eve could write a review of the facility, which is what started this whole investigation for Eve. Needless to say, the usual gang of friends is on hand to help sort it all out and you've got to love Moira's sleuthing personality. Oh, and I can't forget Gus, Eve's adorable dachshund, who provides his own kind of assistance.
Bottom line, a top-notch mystery with memorable characters, both good and bad. You won't feel much sympathy for the initial victim, though, that's for sure. That's said, I found myself warming to the various suspects, even the guilty party. Takes a talented author to make readers feel that way, I'd say. Thanks #Bookouture for this early peek back into Eve's life, a reminder to me to do some catch up reading. Library, here I come!
Although I occasionally find myself annoyed with Eve for her obsessive curiosity and use of her job, writing obituaries, to question suspects, I also enjoy this series immensely. What can I say, I'm a sucker for character driven books and this series has a set of well developed regular characters and even the background of suspects seems to be nicely fleshed out. As a result, it's understandable why Eve sometimes finds it hard to approach someone as a suspect when, well, that person is a friend, someone she likes. Everyone has secrets, however, and, oh, my, there are a ton of them in this one. What seems like a normal renovation job leads to murder and explosive secrets unraveling families and associates. Nothing simple about this one.
Who killed Duncan Blake? I won't detail the plot but it is full of twists and turns involving those secrets, obsessions with the past, affairs of the heart, shady business deals, shattered hopes and dreams, families being ripped apart, adorable, much-loved children, and it seems like everyone is lying. How will Eve sort out who did it when even the innocent may be protecting others? It was nice to not only see that Eve has gotten good about having backup but that Eve and new husband Robin work so well together, even if it did remind me that I seem to have missed a few books in the series. Robin was still sort of keeping a low profile last book I read, now they're married and he's able to be open, even if his gardening know-how doesn't seem to have dimmed. They were invited to Hideaway House so Eve could write a review of the facility, which is what started this whole investigation for Eve. Needless to say, the usual gang of friends is on hand to help sort it all out and you've got to love Moira's sleuthing personality. Oh, and I can't forget Gus, Eve's adorable dachshund, who provides his own kind of assistance.
Bottom line, a top-notch mystery with memorable characters, both good and bad. You won't feel much sympathy for the initial victim, though, that's for sure. That's said, I found myself warming to the various suspects, even the guilty party. Takes a talented author to make readers feel that way, I'd say. Thanks #Bookouture for this early peek back into Eve's life, a reminder to me to do some catch up reading. Library, here I come!
June 12, 2025
Eve Mallow is offered the opportunity to take a short holiday with her new husband Robin in the recently refurbished Hideaway House in exchange for a review of the house as a holiday let. The house is an old folly resembling a miniature castle hidden in the depths of the vast Kesham Estate. Duncan Blake is well known for his TV documentaries restoring old buildings. Restoring the bijou Hideaway House with its tiny cosy rooms, complete with a four-poster bed and roof terrace to its former glory has been a labour of love for Duncan because he grew up on the estate. The project has taken him nearly a year, plus a small fortune to accomplish.
Eve is a little reluctant to accept Duncan’s seemingly generous offer and the note she discovers on the table when she moves in – If you stay here, you have blood on your hands – doesn’t help.
Soon after, Duncan’s body is discovered at the bottom of a ditch.
There are several suspects – Duncan’s wife Angela who works with Eve and her friend Viv in Viv’s bakery and tea shop; Lord Edward and his wife Fifi, owners of Kesham Hall; Hattie, Duncan’s young assistant and even Jack – who used to live in one of the other houses on the estate that is on Duncan’s list of Kesham properties which he plans to restore – and its current occupant, Byron.
Clare Chase is a prolific author and Mystery at Hideaway house is the 14th novel in her series featuring obituary writer, Eve Mallow. She is a master at creating memorable characters. Each of her suspects is so brilliantly drawn, the reader doesn’t want any of them to be found guilty of such a heinous act. In addition, all the lovable characters, including the village gossips Moira and Margery, who are always keen to help Eve in her investigative exploits, are back.
In the true whodunit tradition, Clare Chase weaves a plot full of twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the page in an attempt to unpick the tangled web before it builds to a satisfying conclusion.
------
Reviewer: Judith Cranswick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
Eve is a little reluctant to accept Duncan’s seemingly generous offer and the note she discovers on the table when she moves in – If you stay here, you have blood on your hands – doesn’t help.
Soon after, Duncan’s body is discovered at the bottom of a ditch.
There are several suspects – Duncan’s wife Angela who works with Eve and her friend Viv in Viv’s bakery and tea shop; Lord Edward and his wife Fifi, owners of Kesham Hall; Hattie, Duncan’s young assistant and even Jack – who used to live in one of the other houses on the estate that is on Duncan’s list of Kesham properties which he plans to restore – and its current occupant, Byron.
Clare Chase is a prolific author and Mystery at Hideaway house is the 14th novel in her series featuring obituary writer, Eve Mallow. She is a master at creating memorable characters. Each of her suspects is so brilliantly drawn, the reader doesn’t want any of them to be found guilty of such a heinous act. In addition, all the lovable characters, including the village gossips Moira and Margery, who are always keen to help Eve in her investigative exploits, are back.
In the true whodunit tradition, Clare Chase weaves a plot full of twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the page in an attempt to unpick the tangled web before it builds to a satisfying conclusion.
------
Reviewer: Judith Cranswick
For Lizzie Sirett (Mystery People Group)
May 14, 2025
"Mystery At Hideaway House" is book #14 in "An Eve Mallow Mystery" by Clare Chase.
Eve, her husband Robin and their dachshund Gus are spending a weekend at a newly restored home on a nearby estate. She has been hired to write an article about Hideaway House and the additional work that is being done on the estate by Duncan Blake. Things are never quite what they seem though when she finds a threatening note and later Duncan is found dead in a ditch. What was really going on and who wanted him dead? Of course, once Duncan was murdered, the focus of the article switched from reviewing Hideaway House to writing his obituary. This gives Eve ample opportunity to interview and observe those who had interacted with him.
Clare Chase does not disappoint in this latest Eve Mallow Mystery. The story weaves in and out of the various suspects lives and interactions. Some deeply held secrets, lies and liassons are slowly brought to light as Eve, Robin and their friends gather information. There were so many twists and unexpected revelations along the way that I really wasn't sure who was ultimately responsible until just before Eve put all the pieces together.
I do enjoy this series. Eve and Robin make a dynamic team. Gus is loyal to those he loves, a protector when needed and an adorable scene stealer! As usual, Viv is disorganized and a bit chaotic in her note taking but she does mean well. Greg Boles and Dawkins are reliable sources for inside scoop while DI Palmer continues to be pompous and lazy when it comes to crime solving. Moira and Marjorie are your typical village gossips - though for the most part, Eve and friends have figured out how to use their gossip in gathering info to solve the cases. Oh well, every book must have at least one or two characters to drive you nuts!
Overall, this was an excellent cozy mystery that will keep you turning the pages as you try to get to the truth before it is too late...
Eve, her husband Robin and their dachshund Gus are spending a weekend at a newly restored home on a nearby estate. She has been hired to write an article about Hideaway House and the additional work that is being done on the estate by Duncan Blake. Things are never quite what they seem though when she finds a threatening note and later Duncan is found dead in a ditch. What was really going on and who wanted him dead? Of course, once Duncan was murdered, the focus of the article switched from reviewing Hideaway House to writing his obituary. This gives Eve ample opportunity to interview and observe those who had interacted with him.
Clare Chase does not disappoint in this latest Eve Mallow Mystery. The story weaves in and out of the various suspects lives and interactions. Some deeply held secrets, lies and liassons are slowly brought to light as Eve, Robin and their friends gather information. There were so many twists and unexpected revelations along the way that I really wasn't sure who was ultimately responsible until just before Eve put all the pieces together.
I do enjoy this series. Eve and Robin make a dynamic team. Gus is loyal to those he loves, a protector when needed and an adorable scene stealer! As usual, Viv is disorganized and a bit chaotic in her note taking but she does mean well. Greg Boles and Dawkins are reliable sources for inside scoop while DI Palmer continues to be pompous and lazy when it comes to crime solving. Moira and Marjorie are your typical village gossips - though for the most part, Eve and friends have figured out how to use their gossip in gathering info to solve the cases. Oh well, every book must have at least one or two characters to drive you nuts!
Overall, this was an excellent cozy mystery that will keep you turning the pages as you try to get to the truth before it is too late...
July 13, 2025
𝗕𝗢𝗢𝗞 𝗧𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
𝗠𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗬 𝗔𝗧 𝗛𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘
by Clare Chase
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am delighted to share my thoughts on Mystery At Hideaway House as part of the book tour hosted by @bookouture . My thanks to them for my spot on the tour and to @Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
When I saw this book tour, I had no idea it was book 14 of a brilliant mystery series. It does read as a perfectly good standalone, but as I enjoyed it so much, I will be reading the other books. Eve Mallow, obituary writer and amateur sleuth, has a change of pace as she offers to write a review about the newly refurbished Hideaway House. Then the celebrity proprietor is found dead, and Eve begins her investigation.
This is a compelling story which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It is my first cozy mystery too. I normally gravitate towards psychological thrillers, but this has inspired me to read more. If I have a mystery that needs solving, I am calling Eve, but only if she brings her dachshund Gus. What a bunch of characters! Compelling, likeable (sometimes), and utterly credible.
The story has its fair share of twists and turns, many of which caught me by surprise. While I worked out (guessed) the identity of the guilty party, the big reveal was no less gripping. Overall, I am so glad I have been introduced to Eve Mallow and recommend this book, as well as the whole series, to anyone wanting a great mystery to read. I gave Mystery At Hideaway House, by Clare Chase, four stars.
#ad #gifted #MYSTERYATHIDEAWAYHOUSE #CLARECHASE #bookouture #MYSYERY #booklover #bookstagrammers #johnsbookshelf #bookstabloggers #bookreader #blogtour #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookshelf #bookaddict #igreads #bookblog #readabook #johnsbookshelfblogs #bookaholic #fortheloveofbooks #goodreadschallenge2025 #bookpost #blogpost #johnsbookshelfreviews #honestreviewsonly
𝗠𝗬𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗬 𝗔𝗧 𝗛𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗔𝗪𝗔𝗬 𝗛𝗢𝗨𝗦𝗘
by Clare Chase
⭐⭐⭐⭐
I am delighted to share my thoughts on Mystery At Hideaway House as part of the book tour hosted by @bookouture . My thanks to them for my spot on the tour and to @Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗘𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗪
When I saw this book tour, I had no idea it was book 14 of a brilliant mystery series. It does read as a perfectly good standalone, but as I enjoyed it so much, I will be reading the other books. Eve Mallow, obituary writer and amateur sleuth, has a change of pace as she offers to write a review about the newly refurbished Hideaway House. Then the celebrity proprietor is found dead, and Eve begins her investigation.
This is a compelling story which I thoroughly enjoyed reading. It is my first cozy mystery too. I normally gravitate towards psychological thrillers, but this has inspired me to read more. If I have a mystery that needs solving, I am calling Eve, but only if she brings her dachshund Gus. What a bunch of characters! Compelling, likeable (sometimes), and utterly credible.
The story has its fair share of twists and turns, many of which caught me by surprise. While I worked out (guessed) the identity of the guilty party, the big reveal was no less gripping. Overall, I am so glad I have been introduced to Eve Mallow and recommend this book, as well as the whole series, to anyone wanting a great mystery to read. I gave Mystery At Hideaway House, by Clare Chase, four stars.
#ad #gifted #MYSTERYATHIDEAWAYHOUSE #CLARECHASE #bookouture #MYSYERY #booklover #bookstagrammers #johnsbookshelf #bookstabloggers #bookreader #blogtour #bookstagram #bibliophile #bookshelf #bookaddict #igreads #bookblog #readabook #johnsbookshelfblogs #bookaholic #fortheloveofbooks #goodreadschallenge2025 #bookpost #blogpost #johnsbookshelfreviews #honestreviewsonly
May 7, 2025
As an obituary writer, Eve Mallow has the freedom to ask questions, even if they might be perceived as intrusive to others. However, she has taken matters into her own hands as an amateur sleuth on numerous occasions. For now, she is away on a holiday with her new husband, Robin.
Their host, Duncan Blake, is genuinely hoping that their holiday destination, Hideaway House, will receive a rave review from Eve. But even before Eve, Robin, and her beloved dachshund, Gus, can settle in, Eve finds a chilling note that warns of Hideaway House’s dark history and the potential for unpleasant events. Is this a mere coincidence, or is foul play the intended outcome?
This very question becomes the central focus of Eve’s mind when she and others are shocked to discover that their host, Duncan, has tragically fallen to his death. A myriad of questions immediately surface in her mind, demanding answers to the question of who killed Duncan and why.
Determined to get to the bottom of things, questions of resentment and revenge arise when Eve considers the other guests that are there. Eve knows from past experience that digging too deeply could land her in danger, but she is relentless in her question to find answers.
This latest book (14!) in the Eve Mallow series is a true delight, just as all of the previous books in the series have been. I love that Eve and Robin are now married, and that his past and present work quite well in the happy life he is now sharing with Eve.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Their host, Duncan Blake, is genuinely hoping that their holiday destination, Hideaway House, will receive a rave review from Eve. But even before Eve, Robin, and her beloved dachshund, Gus, can settle in, Eve finds a chilling note that warns of Hideaway House’s dark history and the potential for unpleasant events. Is this a mere coincidence, or is foul play the intended outcome?
This very question becomes the central focus of Eve’s mind when she and others are shocked to discover that their host, Duncan, has tragically fallen to his death. A myriad of questions immediately surface in her mind, demanding answers to the question of who killed Duncan and why.
Determined to get to the bottom of things, questions of resentment and revenge arise when Eve considers the other guests that are there. Eve knows from past experience that digging too deeply could land her in danger, but she is relentless in her question to find answers.
This latest book (14!) in the Eve Mallow series is a true delight, just as all of the previous books in the series have been. I love that Eve and Robin are now married, and that his past and present work quite well in the happy life he is now sharing with Eve.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 8, 2025
3 1/2 stars. Eve Mallow has an unusual job and for an amateur detective a great reason to interview people close to some who has been killed that the police can't complain too much about: she is an obituary writer. Her latest case unexpectedly her way when she goes to a nearby rental to do a review and someone shows up dead. Luckily, the man is somewhat famous and she can easily turn this into an obituary for some news outlet. Plus, it is nearby her local village so she can get help investigating with her local Scooby gang. And she will need it for there are plenty of suspects and plenty of red herring that kept me guessing until the end.
And as usual, the book ends with the obituary of the victim. Eve does a good job of giving a fairly balanced view of her subjects even though most of them are not always stellar human beings, after all someone hated them enough to kill them. She mentions any difficulties that they may have had that turns them into the people they are and often makes their action as part of the human foibles we all have. Some just take them to extremes. At the same time she doesn't sugar coat these people as being up for a humanitarian reward.
There were some parts that dragged a little bit that could have moved a long a bit quicker but overall a good book. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
And as usual, the book ends with the obituary of the victim. Eve does a good job of giving a fairly balanced view of her subjects even though most of them are not always stellar human beings, after all someone hated them enough to kill them. She mentions any difficulties that they may have had that turns them into the people they are and often makes their action as part of the human foibles we all have. Some just take them to extremes. At the same time she doesn't sugar coat these people as being up for a humanitarian reward.
There were some parts that dragged a little bit that could have moved a long a bit quicker but overall a good book. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2025
Journalist Eve Mallow is invited to review a short break in a renovated cottage on a country estate. But tensions and love affairs lead to a murder and Eve changes her article to an obituary...
Mystery at Hideaway House is the 14th book in the Eve Mallow series of amateur sleuth cosy murder mysteries set in the English countryside.
Hideaway House is a perfect destination for a retreat. But Duncan cannot enjoy his successful project as he is striving to relaunch his TV career and that of his estranged secret daughter, as well as keeping his affair with the local landowner's wife from public knowledge.
Unsurprisingly Duncan is the first victim. Eve is keen to find out the truth to clear his wife's name. There are a whole host of secrets and lies to uncover to reveal the various motives of the suspects. Eve and her friends gather regularly to update each other and consider the relative degree of suspicion for each suspect.
The author has established her plot formula, characters and setting over the series. I like how Eve now has a support network to bounce ideas around. The mystery is well sustained over the course of the book and kept me guessing.
Mystery at Hideaway House is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
Mystery at Hideaway House is the 14th book in the Eve Mallow series of amateur sleuth cosy murder mysteries set in the English countryside.
Hideaway House is a perfect destination for a retreat. But Duncan cannot enjoy his successful project as he is striving to relaunch his TV career and that of his estranged secret daughter, as well as keeping his affair with the local landowner's wife from public knowledge.
Unsurprisingly Duncan is the first victim. Eve is keen to find out the truth to clear his wife's name. There are a whole host of secrets and lies to uncover to reveal the various motives of the suspects. Eve and her friends gather regularly to update each other and consider the relative degree of suspicion for each suspect.
The author has established her plot formula, characters and setting over the series. I like how Eve now has a support network to bounce ideas around. The mystery is well sustained over the course of the book and kept me guessing.
Mystery at Hideaway House is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
May 24, 2025
Lots of interesting architecture in this episode of the Eve Mallow Mysteries.
This time Eve is not writing an obituary, at least not at the start of the book. She has been invited to write an article about Hideaway House, an interesting old building that has been transformed in a holiday rental with lots of original details by a famous architect and restore who has had a TV program for a long time.
But as thing usually go wherever Eve is staying, the architect is soon found dead and what should have been a romantic getaway for Eve and Robin is cut short. The article that Eve was supposed to write is converted to an obituary. Unsurprisingly the victim count is rising when Eve starts to dig into everyone's dirty secrets. And lots of the suspects turn out to have a couple of those.
I love the way that Eve and Robin are working more and more as a team, supported by the "gang". The whole village has started sleuthing it seems. Absolutely love the antics of Gus, the faithful dachshund.
Many thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Al opinions expressed are my own.
This time Eve is not writing an obituary, at least not at the start of the book. She has been invited to write an article about Hideaway House, an interesting old building that has been transformed in a holiday rental with lots of original details by a famous architect and restore who has had a TV program for a long time.
But as thing usually go wherever Eve is staying, the architect is soon found dead and what should have been a romantic getaway for Eve and Robin is cut short. The article that Eve was supposed to write is converted to an obituary. Unsurprisingly the victim count is rising when Eve starts to dig into everyone's dirty secrets. And lots of the suspects turn out to have a couple of those.
I love the way that Eve and Robin are working more and more as a team, supported by the "gang". The whole village has started sleuthing it seems. Absolutely love the antics of Gus, the faithful dachshund.
Many thanks to Netgalley for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. Al opinions expressed are my own.
March 15, 2025
This is the first Eve Mallow Mystery that I have read and it works very well as a stand-alone. Eve and her husband (ex-police detective) Robin have been invited to stay at the newly renovated Hideaway House to write a review as it will be used as a holiday let. The small house and its setting are fantastic, but not when the house is egged during the night. Eve also feels guilty staying in such luxury when Duncan, the developer, has his own wife and small child living on the estate in a moldy, run-down home. When a murder occurs, Eve and her friends gather to solve the crime as they don’t trust the investigation’s head. There are tangled ties among the suspects and lies and hidden agendas.
The characters are well-developed and the mystery is top-notch. I was engaged in the story from the beginning and enjoyed the unraveling of the clues as the story develops. I plan to read the earlier stories now!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
The characters are well-developed and the mystery is top-notch. I was engaged in the story from the beginning and enjoyed the unraveling of the clues as the story develops. I plan to read the earlier stories now!
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
May 11, 2025
A holiday cottage in which to stay
For a much needed break and holiday.
Eve and Robin, her new husband, are going to see
It's renovations and how nice it can be!
She's writing a review about their stay
But it will be honest, that much she can say.
It's been renovated by Duncan, a TV renovations show star,
Who is hoping the review will attract guests from afar.
A threatening note, secrets from the past,
Overheard conversations, the truth - perhaps - at last?
Then Duncan is found murdered, but by who?
Eve will try to find out aided by Robin and the village crew!
So many secrets have been concealed,
What happens when they are revealed?
An enthralling case with suspects galore
And danger for others as the clues they explore.
For my copy of this book I say a huge thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
For a much needed break and holiday.
Eve and Robin, her new husband, are going to see
It's renovations and how nice it can be!
She's writing a review about their stay
But it will be honest, that much she can say.
It's been renovated by Duncan, a TV renovations show star,
Who is hoping the review will attract guests from afar.
A threatening note, secrets from the past,
Overheard conversations, the truth - perhaps - at last?
Then Duncan is found murdered, but by who?
Eve will try to find out aided by Robin and the village crew!
So many secrets have been concealed,
What happens when they are revealed?
An enthralling case with suspects galore
And danger for others as the clues they explore.
For my copy of this book I say a huge thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
August 28, 2025
Eve and Robin are given free lodging at a posh historical residence recently renovated by Duncan Blake in return for a review which will appear in Icon magazine. Unfortunately, things go badly from the beginning and a less than stellar review turns into an obituary Eve will write for Duncan. He was the kind of person who would do anything to get what he wanted - lying, cheating, stealing and blackmailing were all done on a regular basis. Not too surprising to discover that many people would be happy if he was dead. It's up to Eve and Robin to find clues and ask the right questions until the murderer is found.
I like their new relationship as newlyweds. It's great to have Robin able to regain his own identity so he can come out of hiding and professionally work on police cases once more.
I like their new relationship as newlyweds. It's great to have Robin able to regain his own identity so he can come out of hiding and professionally work on police cases once more.
April 5, 2025
Thank you to the publisher, Bookouture and NetGalley for an eARC of this book. I want to state up front that I did DNF this book at 40% after realizing I’m not the intended audience for it.
I’m still giving it 3 stars because it’s well written, still gives all the cozy mystery vibes (amateur sleuth, intimate community, light-hearted for a murder mystery). I love the description of scenery and that book cover is lovely!
Personally, there wasn’t a lot of action. It felt like there would be a conversation with a suspect, review notes with friends and to self, rinse and repeat. I didn’t connect with the characters but I also didn’t realize I’m coming in at book 14 (oops). Maybe I would’ve benefited from reading previous books in the series.
Overall, it’s a good cozy mystery
I’m still giving it 3 stars because it’s well written, still gives all the cozy mystery vibes (amateur sleuth, intimate community, light-hearted for a murder mystery). I love the description of scenery and that book cover is lovely!
Personally, there wasn’t a lot of action. It felt like there would be a conversation with a suspect, review notes with friends and to self, rinse and repeat. I didn’t connect with the characters but I also didn’t realize I’m coming in at book 14 (oops). Maybe I would’ve benefited from reading previous books in the series.
Overall, it’s a good cozy mystery
April 18, 2025
Another Eve Mallow mystery I enjoyed reading as much as all the (13) other ones. :)
This time Eve is supposed to write a review about a holiday house restored by a TV-famous man, but once again ends up conducting interviews for an obituary - with the usual side of sleuthing, of course.
I liked the location and, as always, gradually finding out what every suspect was trying to hide.
Although I would advice new readers to start with book 1, those who don't mind partial spoilers could enjoy this one even if they're not yet familiar with Eve, her cute dog Gus, and the group of friends with whom she discusses the murder clues.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This time Eve is supposed to write a review about a holiday house restored by a TV-famous man, but once again ends up conducting interviews for an obituary - with the usual side of sleuthing, of course.
I liked the location and, as always, gradually finding out what every suspect was trying to hide.
Although I would advice new readers to start with book 1, those who don't mind partial spoilers could enjoy this one even if they're not yet familiar with Eve, her cute dog Gus, and the group of friends with whom she discusses the murder clues.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 6, 2025
I’ve been following this series from the start, and I know it's a great one—I absolutely love it. This installment was the best so far: one of those mysteries you begin with a 'let’s take a look' mindset, only to find yourself trapped in 'just one more chapter' mode, leading to inevitable sleep deprivation.
I was drawn into the story right away—the complex background, the fascinating descriptions of the building, and the sense of a dark undercurrent hidden beneath an otherwise stunning place. That was just the beginning, and I wasn’t disappointed—the twists and ultimate solution lived up to the story's gripping start.
Highly recommended! Many thanks to Bookouture for this digital copy—all opinions are my own.
I was drawn into the story right away—the complex background, the fascinating descriptions of the building, and the sense of a dark undercurrent hidden beneath an otherwise stunning place. That was just the beginning, and I wasn’t disappointed—the twists and ultimate solution lived up to the story's gripping start.
Highly recommended! Many thanks to Bookouture for this digital copy—all opinions are my own.
March 18, 2025
Another great book in this enjoyable series. It's hard to believe we are on Book 14 already this area can rivel Mid Sommer for murders it seems. All the regulars are always present which is a good think about the murder being in the local area as we get to see them grown and develop as well as catching up with Eve and Robin the newly weds. The mystery is full of twists and turns with nobody telling the truth I did suspect the person responsible before the end but was by no means sure so I was still gripped till the end. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 5, 2025
When obituary writer Eve Mallow stays in a holiday home with a difference, we know a body's going to be discovered soon...
And it's shortly followed by a second. Eve wants to protect people she cares about, so can she work out who the murderer is before there's another death?
Enjoyable read with a good cast of characters (and an excellent dog). Eve's caring and kind, so we can forgive the nosiness (and she's also patient with some colleagues who would drive me crazy!).
Lots of twists and turns - secrets, obsession with the past, love affairs, dodgy deals - and quite a lot of the characters are lying...
Good pace, good characterisation, and lots of excellent red herrings.
And it's shortly followed by a second. Eve wants to protect people she cares about, so can she work out who the murderer is before there's another death?
Enjoyable read with a good cast of characters (and an excellent dog). Eve's caring and kind, so we can forgive the nosiness (and she's also patient with some colleagues who would drive me crazy!).
Lots of twists and turns - secrets, obsession with the past, love affairs, dodgy deals - and quite a lot of the characters are lying...
Good pace, good characterisation, and lots of excellent red herrings.
May 18, 2025
I didn't think this was as good as the previous books - and the premise, with them being on property should have made it better. It seems Robin is being sidelined - he used to help more with the mystery. Now he cooks, does paperwork for London 'things' and listens a block away as Eve keeps a phone line open. In a small town, no one recognized Fifi - I guess new name, better hairstyle. Duncan had done multiple tv shows but had no money except when he bought property but fixes Hideaway house to perfection. He also has the rental income from Byron's place Byron and Jack seemed interchangeable
August 20, 2025
Clare Chase is a prolific author and Mystery at Hideaway house is the 14th novel in her series featuring obituary writer, Eve Mallow. She is a master at creating memorable characters. Each of her suspects is so brilliantly drawn, the reader doesn’t want any of them to be found guilty of such a heinous act. In addition, all the lovable characters, including the village gossips Moira and Margery, who are always keen to help Eve in her investigative exploits, are back.
In the true whodunit tradition, Clare Chase weaves a plot full of twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the page in an attempt to unpick the tangled web before it builds to a satisfying conclusion.
In the true whodunit tradition, Clare Chase weaves a plot full of twists and turns that keeps the reader turning the page in an attempt to unpick the tangled web before it builds to a satisfying conclusion.
April 8, 2025
It was a really good read, I love cozy mystery and this was no different. Here we have our main character Eva who is trying to spend some much needed relaxing time with his husband on a holiday. She didn’t expect to come across a murder but she did. When a tv personality turns up dead, Eva tries to find who could be the killer, lots of suspects and very interesting read. Will start reading the backlog of this series!
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this eARC, all opinions are my own.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with this eARC, all opinions are my own.
May 12, 2025
Eve is on holiday with Robin, her husband, and Gus, the dog, and she has to write an article on the historical renovation and a review of the holiday home. Threatening notes and vandalism spoil her break, and Eve's discreet enquiries reveal historic connections and dark secrets. When the owner dies, Eve has to find out why. Eve's methodical investigation, interview skills, and village connections help her discover the truth. I enjoyed the investigation, the characterisation and the atmospheric setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
May 18, 2025
Favorite Quotes:
He looked at Eve as though she was something he’d just sneezed into a tissue.
He wore a smart suit but still managed to look slightly dishevelled. His hair stuck out at odd angles and his glasses looked as though they’d been dropped recently and possibly sat on.
My Review:
This was a complicated and well-plotted mystery that kept me looping around in circles. I was chasing my tail as I pondered so many suspects and what seemed to be red herring clues. Ms. Chase is a clever one and may well be an evil genius, as I marveled at how well she dovetailed all her brilliantly scattered pieces together in a realistic fashion.
He looked at Eve as though she was something he’d just sneezed into a tissue.
He wore a smart suit but still managed to look slightly dishevelled. His hair stuck out at odd angles and his glasses looked as though they’d been dropped recently and possibly sat on.
My Review:
This was a complicated and well-plotted mystery that kept me looping around in circles. I was chasing my tail as I pondered so many suspects and what seemed to be red herring clues. Ms. Chase is a clever one and may well be an evil genius, as I marveled at how well she dovetailed all her brilliantly scattered pieces together in a realistic fashion.
May 31, 2025
This was actually quite good. Though some of the conclusions Eve comes to along with some of the reasons for doing things are tenuous at best and sometimes downright ridiculous. Her insistence on having to know the answer to just about everything is beginning to come across as some weird fixation. It happened so often in this book that I was starting to doubt her sanity! At least this time Eve was happy to share the sleuthing with Robin. And the whole thing was solved without Eve managing to be caught, kidnapped or even threatened by the killer! Wonders will never cease.
May 20, 2025
Eve Mallow has promised to write a review of a beautiful rental property situated on a country estate. As Eve and her husband Robin consider it a perfect getaway for the two of them, they find themselves once more involved in solving a murder when things are not as picture perfect as they first appear. As usual there are plenty of suspects and twists and turns to keep you engaged through to the end.
May 27, 2025
Book fourteen sees the return of amateur sleuth Eve and her side kick Gus and the charming community of Saxford St Peters for another cosy mystery that sees Eve in the thick of things yet again I must say she is an extremely unlucky lady, having said that there is a host of regular characters that are always a delight to catch up with.
Another Steller edition to this charming cosy mystery series!
Another Steller edition to this charming cosy mystery series!
September 3, 2025
I recently finished reading another fantastic book featuring Eve, Gus, and the rest of the Saxford crew. It was a real page-turner, with so many twists and turns that kept me guessing until the very end. Thankfully, all the loose ends are tied up in a satisfying conclusion. I’ve read all the books in this series and none have let me down. I’m already eagerly awaiting the next one!
April 6, 2025
I liked the story and the plot. The characters were well thought out and the world building was great, but for me this was too long and perhaps too detailed I had to skim to the end. Thank you to the publisher and author for a copy.
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