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Mystery Bookshop #10
The Next Deadly Chapter
Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington is engaged to be married—but she may have to step over a few bodies before she walks down the aisle . . .
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nana Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nana Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
376 pages, Paperback
First published February 25, 2025
27 people are currently reading
353 people want to read
About the author
V.M. Burns
20 books1,277 followersValerie (V.M.) Burns was born in Northwestern Indiana and spent many years in
Southwestern Michigan on the Lake Michigan shoreline. She is a lover of dogs,
British historic cozies, and scones with clotted cream. After many years in the
Midwest she went in search of milder winters and currently lives in Northern Georgia with her poodles. Her debut novel, The Plot is Murder was nominated for a 2017 Agatha Award for Best First Novel. Her short story, "The Vermeer Conspiracy" was an Anthony and Edgar Award finalist in 2022. Valerie is a member of Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Crime Writers Association, Crime Writers of Color, and Sisters in Crime. Readers can learn more by visiting her website at vmburns.com.
Contact Info: author@vmburns.com
Southwestern Michigan on the Lake Michigan shoreline. She is a lover of dogs,
British historic cozies, and scones with clotted cream. After many years in the
Midwest she went in search of milder winters and currently lives in Northern Georgia with her poodles. Her debut novel, The Plot is Murder was nominated for a 2017 Agatha Award for Best First Novel. Her short story, "The Vermeer Conspiracy" was an Anthony and Edgar Award finalist in 2022. Valerie is a member of Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers, Crime Writers Association, Crime Writers of Color, and Sisters in Crime. Readers can learn more by visiting her website at vmburns.com.
Contact Info: author@vmburns.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
February 11, 2025
This is the tenth book in the Mystery Bookshop series. I have not read the previous books but would certainly like to do so now.
Samantha Washington is the owner of the Mystery Bookshop, and she is an author of mystery books herself. She is soon to be married and her friends arrange a pre wedding function for her where she is going to meet her future mother-in-law for the first time. Of course not everything goes smoothly and finding a dead body does not make anything easier.
A very interesting feature of this book is that when Sam is stressed she writes, and the reader gets to see what she has actually written in her new mystery set in 1939 about an upper class family. Even more interesting is that what she writes mirrors her current situation. It is a clever and entertaining feature which apparently occurs in the earlier books as well. A well written and enjoyable story. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Samantha Washington is the owner of the Mystery Bookshop, and she is an author of mystery books herself. She is soon to be married and her friends arrange a pre wedding function for her where she is going to meet her future mother-in-law for the first time. Of course not everything goes smoothly and finding a dead body does not make anything easier.
A very interesting feature of this book is that when Sam is stressed she writes, and the reader gets to see what she has actually written in her new mystery set in 1939 about an upper class family. Even more interesting is that what she writes mirrors her current situation. It is a clever and entertaining feature which apparently occurs in the earlier books as well. A well written and enjoyable story. Four stars.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 14, 2025
This is the tenth book in the Mystery Bookshop series, but it is the first one I have read. V.M. Burns is a new author for me.
Description:
Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington is engaged to be married—but she may have to step over a few bodies before she walks down the aisle . . .
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nano Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
My Thoughts:
This was a fun cozy mystery that kept me smiling at the antics of Samantha Washington's family and friends. I loved Nana Jo and the Shady Acres Retirement Village posse. The setting of the Four Feathers Casino on a native american reservation was a great backdrop for the murder mystery. this is really two mysteries as you get to read Samantha's book she is writing as it is being penned during her breaks from all the stress going on at the casino. While both mysteries were good, the one at the casino was much more interesting to me and I found the book being written somewhat of a distraction. I would recommend this cozy to my friends and I want to read more of this series when I get a chance.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies through Netgalley for an advance copy.
Description:
Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington is engaged to be married—but she may have to step over a few bodies before she walks down the aisle . . .
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nano Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
My Thoughts:
This was a fun cozy mystery that kept me smiling at the antics of Samantha Washington's family and friends. I loved Nana Jo and the Shady Acres Retirement Village posse. The setting of the Four Feathers Casino on a native american reservation was a great backdrop for the murder mystery. this is really two mysteries as you get to read Samantha's book she is writing as it is being penned during her breaks from all the stress going on at the casino. While both mysteries were good, the one at the casino was much more interesting to me and I found the book being written somewhat of a distraction. I would recommend this cozy to my friends and I want to read more of this series when I get a chance.
Thanks to Kensington Publishing | Kensington Cozies through Netgalley for an advance copy.
March 2, 2025
Dollycas’s Thoughts
In The Next Deadly Chapter Samantha is busy promoting her first book including a book tour with Escape With Dollycas/Great Escapes, and a book signing at the Pontolomas Senior Citizens Center. The book signing gets a little contentious when Sam gets heckled and Nana Jo can’t hold back. Before the “crane kick” could be delivered by Nana Jo staff removed the heckler. Nana Jo then receives a gift from one of the Pontolomas tribal leaders – A complimentary four-day weekend stay – all expenses paid for Sam and five friends at the Four Feathers Casino Resort. With fiancé Frank’s mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson coming to town to meet Sam and her family and friends, Nana Jo thinks having a surprise bridal shower at the casino sounds like a grand plan.
The initial meeting between Sam and Dr. Patterson is a little frosty but things get a little crazy at the casino. Sam leaves Nana Jo, Dorothy, Irma, Ruby Mae, and Dr. Patterson with the evening’s entertainment and slips away to her room to work on her new historical mystery. She never imagined what the next morning would bring . . . a dead body in Frank’s mother’s room. This was not the good impression she hoped to make on her future mother-in-law.
It’s time for Sam and the ladies of Shady Acres with some assistance from Detective “Stinky” Pitt to bet it all and keep the murder on the down low and keep Camila out of the fray. If they have any luck at all they will close the case before the killer doubles down on his action.
I was overjoyed to be back in North Harbor, Michigan with all the wonderful characters Ms. Burns has created for this series. The introduction of “Francis’s” mother Dr. Camilia Patterson was most entertaining especially the way she evolved within the pages of this story and the remarkable effect she had on another character. I love that all the characters are like one big happy family and all had things happening within this story. Dawson had an issue with his dad and sought advice from Sam. Sam’s nephews Christopher and Zaq held down the fort at the bookstore while Sam and Nana Jo were at the casino. Frank was super busy with his restaurant. Jenna got in on the action at the casino. Sam’s mom and stepfather are in Australia. Oreo and Snickers stayed with Dawson for the long weekend and Oreo got into a bit of a stink.
Now the murder was a tricky mystery. It took place on Tribal Lands which is their own nation with different rules. The body did a disappearing act which caused some extra drama. Nana Jo and the other ladies from Shady Acres all worked their strengths – Ruby Mae checked in with her relatives working at the casino. Irma may be “knocking on eighty’s door” but she has legs like Tina Turner and she knows how to use them to attract any man she sets her sites on. Dorothy uses her journalistic capabilities and her strong multitasking skills to get info on the suspects. And Nana Jo, well is Nana Jo. I wish I had half the energy these women have. I always have a great time chasing after them laughing at their antics as Sam works hard to bring all the information together.
One of the reasons I love this series is because readers are treated to two mysteries in each book. The one Sam and her friends handle and the historical mystery set in 1939 Sam is writing. When Sam feels overwhelmed or stuck trying to make sense of her real-life mystery she escapes into the fictional world to calm herself and sometimes that diversion helps clues fall into place in the non-fictional world. I enjoy these mysteries as much as the main one.
The Next Deadly Chapter is another marvelous addition to this series and another Perfect Escape! Heartwarming genuine characters who know how to have fun even when trying to catch a killer pull me into their story easily. I am invested wholeheartedly in this series and absolutely hate waiting for the next installment but I trust V.M. Burns will give me a story, make that two stories, that are well worth waiting for.
You can read each book on its own but I recommend you start at the beginning and enjoy every one.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
In The Next Deadly Chapter Samantha is busy promoting her first book including a book tour with Escape With Dollycas/Great Escapes, and a book signing at the Pontolomas Senior Citizens Center. The book signing gets a little contentious when Sam gets heckled and Nana Jo can’t hold back. Before the “crane kick” could be delivered by Nana Jo staff removed the heckler. Nana Jo then receives a gift from one of the Pontolomas tribal leaders – A complimentary four-day weekend stay – all expenses paid for Sam and five friends at the Four Feathers Casino Resort. With fiancé Frank’s mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson coming to town to meet Sam and her family and friends, Nana Jo thinks having a surprise bridal shower at the casino sounds like a grand plan.
The initial meeting between Sam and Dr. Patterson is a little frosty but things get a little crazy at the casino. Sam leaves Nana Jo, Dorothy, Irma, Ruby Mae, and Dr. Patterson with the evening’s entertainment and slips away to her room to work on her new historical mystery. She never imagined what the next morning would bring . . . a dead body in Frank’s mother’s room. This was not the good impression she hoped to make on her future mother-in-law.
It’s time for Sam and the ladies of Shady Acres with some assistance from Detective “Stinky” Pitt to bet it all and keep the murder on the down low and keep Camila out of the fray. If they have any luck at all they will close the case before the killer doubles down on his action.
I was overjoyed to be back in North Harbor, Michigan with all the wonderful characters Ms. Burns has created for this series. The introduction of “Francis’s” mother Dr. Camilia Patterson was most entertaining especially the way she evolved within the pages of this story and the remarkable effect she had on another character. I love that all the characters are like one big happy family and all had things happening within this story. Dawson had an issue with his dad and sought advice from Sam. Sam’s nephews Christopher and Zaq held down the fort at the bookstore while Sam and Nana Jo were at the casino. Frank was super busy with his restaurant. Jenna got in on the action at the casino. Sam’s mom and stepfather are in Australia. Oreo and Snickers stayed with Dawson for the long weekend and Oreo got into a bit of a stink.
Now the murder was a tricky mystery. It took place on Tribal Lands which is their own nation with different rules. The body did a disappearing act which caused some extra drama. Nana Jo and the other ladies from Shady Acres all worked their strengths – Ruby Mae checked in with her relatives working at the casino. Irma may be “knocking on eighty’s door” but she has legs like Tina Turner and she knows how to use them to attract any man she sets her sites on. Dorothy uses her journalistic capabilities and her strong multitasking skills to get info on the suspects. And Nana Jo, well is Nana Jo. I wish I had half the energy these women have. I always have a great time chasing after them laughing at their antics as Sam works hard to bring all the information together.
One of the reasons I love this series is because readers are treated to two mysteries in each book. The one Sam and her friends handle and the historical mystery set in 1939 Sam is writing. When Sam feels overwhelmed or stuck trying to make sense of her real-life mystery she escapes into the fictional world to calm herself and sometimes that diversion helps clues fall into place in the non-fictional world. I enjoy these mysteries as much as the main one.
The Next Deadly Chapter is another marvelous addition to this series and another Perfect Escape! Heartwarming genuine characters who know how to have fun even when trying to catch a killer pull me into their story easily. I am invested wholeheartedly in this series and absolutely hate waiting for the next installment but I trust V.M. Burns will give me a story, make that two stories, that are well worth waiting for.
You can read each book on its own but I recommend you start at the beginning and enjoy every one.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Thank you to Kensington Cozies and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC.
March 4, 2025
This is my favorite of the series so far! I loved the setting of the casino, getting to know Frank’s mother, and the murky lines of jurisdiction between federal, local, and tribal authorities. Sam’s grandmother and her friends, while they were their usual selves, were also a little mores serious in this one, intent on solving the mystery and not nearly as silly as they can be, making for an easier read. I am not a fan of the story within the story and found this one less fleshed out that the others but it had a satisfying conclusion. Looking forward to the next in the series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
October 1, 2024
"The Next Deadly Chapter (Mystery Bookshop #10)" by V. M. Burns is even more two books/novelas in one than other books in this series. It really felt almost equally split between the modern, Samantha, and the historic English countryside story that Samantha is writing. Personally, I started tuning out the historical mystery parts because I was more focused on modern part of the story. I would mind them as two separate stories though.
It just seemed that effort that could have been put to make both stories more wasn't because it was put to including a full story that the fictional character is writing. As a result, I really didn't get much of a build up of clues and the ending felt a bit rushed. There's a great story here though.
It just seemed that effort that could have been put to make both stories more wasn't because it was put to including a full story that the fictional character is writing. As a result, I really didn't get much of a build up of clues and the ending felt a bit rushed. There's a great story here though.
August 18, 2024
#TheNextDeadlyChapter #NetGalley is an exciting addition to this series.
Sam is anxious about meeting her future mother in law, so when her Nana Jo throws her a surprise bridal shower, she's not sure what to think.
After an awkward meeting with her mother in law, Dr. Camilia Patterson, Sam does what she knows best, writing her next book.
When Sam receives a mysterious call from Camilia, things really take off and Sam and friends soon have a mystery to solve.
I really loved this book, it kept me guessing and the story was well written.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
Sam is anxious about meeting her future mother in law, so when her Nana Jo throws her a surprise bridal shower, she's not sure what to think.
After an awkward meeting with her mother in law, Dr. Camilia Patterson, Sam does what she knows best, writing her next book.
When Sam receives a mysterious call from Camilia, things really take off and Sam and friends soon have a mystery to solve.
I really loved this book, it kept me guessing and the story was well written.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
November 27, 2024
I always love the opportunity to visit with Samantha and her posse. This series has such a wonderful central core of characters, actual family, and the families we make for ourselves, and we get to spend time with a lot of them in this book. We also get new additions with the introduction of Frank's mother and a new and improved version of one of our regulars. The ladies literally fall upon this murder victim while they are guests at the Casino as part of a celebration of Sam and Frank's upcoming wedding and Sam's attempt to impress her soon to be mother-in-law. We get the whole crew in action, plenty of good clues, our regular hijinks, lots of laughs, and another story within a story. I was happy to spend several hours with some of my favorite old book friends. Thanks to #Netgally, #Kensingtonbooks, and the author for the opportunity to read. #TheNextDeadlyChapter #MysteryBookshopMysteries #VMBurns #bookreview #bookideas #retiredreader
October 21, 2024
Thank you so much to NetGalley and VM Burns for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Next Deadly Chapter coming out February 25, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nano Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
I really love this author! Cozy mysteries are one of my favorite genres. I haven’t read all the books in this series yet, but I really love it. I love that she’s a writer. I enjoyed this book featured Native Americans. The story Sam was writing was also really interesting and fun. I loved it!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy book mysteries!
All Sam wanted was to make a good impression on her fiancé Frank’s mother, the very proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. But when Nano Jo and the lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino—watch out! Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. Fortunately, Sam knows when to fold ’em and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor.
The morning after brings another rude surprise. Sam gets a frantic call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now winning over her soon-to-be mother-in-law means keeping the good doctor out of a potential scandal and attempting to discreetly solve a murder without ruffling any feathers. For that she’ll need the help of Nano Jo—not exactly the soul of discretion—Detective “Stinky” Pitt, and the ladies—because the casino killer keeps upping the ante. . .
I really love this author! Cozy mysteries are one of my favorite genres. I haven’t read all the books in this series yet, but I really love it. I love that she’s a writer. I enjoyed this book featured Native Americans. The story Sam was writing was also really interesting and fun. I loved it!
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy book mysteries!
September 9, 2024
Samantha Washington, bookseller and former teacher is very soon to be married to Frank (an ex-military man who is currently a local restauranteur). Frank's mother comes to town and is quite unpleasant, but the worst thing is finding a dead man in the room in a posh Resort Casino.
Meanwhile, Sam is writing a cozy mystery set in a country home in 1939 England which is also a good cosy mystery that mirrors the mess going on in Sam's world. Both investigations are filled with humor, plot twists, and really sneaky red herrings. Another great read!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
#CrimeWritersOfColor #MysteryBookshopBk10 Avail Feb 25, 2025
Meanwhile, Sam is writing a cozy mystery set in a country home in 1939 England which is also a good cosy mystery that mirrors the mess going on in Sam's world. Both investigations are filled with humor, plot twists, and really sneaky red herrings. Another great read!
I requested and received an EARC from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
#CrimeWritersOfColor #MysteryBookshopBk10 Avail Feb 25, 2025
February 16, 2025
The Next Deadly Chapter is the tenth book in the Mystery Bookshop series by V.M. Burns. Samantha "Sam" Washington is a mystery bookshop owner that writes murder mysteries. She doesn't get paid to solve crimes but instead writes about them and solves local murder mysteries with the help of friends and family, which includes her gun-toting grandmother, Nana Jo.
Sam is treated to a weekend at a world-class resort and casino. It is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with her soon-to-be mother-in-law, the prim and proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. Spa massages, light gambling, delicious food and relaxation is the plan. What could possibly go wrong? The lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village and Nana Jo throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam. Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. The next morning, a dead body is found in their luxurious suite. Sam and the ladies, with the help of Detective "Stinky" Pitt, aim to discreetly solve the murder of a white man murdered on Native soil.
V.M. Burns has once again proven why she's one of the best at cozy mystery series. This cast of characters are a hoot with chemistry that leaps off the page. Every sleuth plays an important role in solving the murder and walks readers' through the investigation. I guessed the killer early on but there were other suspects that raised my brow thanks to good pacing.
A book within a book can be tricky. While I like that the main character is not only a mystery bookshop owner but an author, it takes some getting used to balancing both worlds. It was clear when the story changed from present-day to the novel-in-progress but I found myself skipping over the manuscript parts. It just wasn't as interesting and became a distraction. It did not help that this story-in-a-story was new to me.
Perhaps I will feel differently when I read the series in chronological order. This is the tenth book but the first I've read in this series. I enjoyed the characters enough to want to officially meet them starting with book one. The two poodles, Snickers and Oreo, are a bonus! Spend the remainder of Black History Month reading this new release by an author of color. It is a good representation of a generational Black family, Indigenous people, teamwork and smarts.
Happy Early Pub Day, V.M. Burns! The Next Deadly Chapter will be available Tuesday, February 25.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
Sam is treated to a weekend at a world-class resort and casino. It is the perfect opportunity to spend quality time with her soon-to-be mother-in-law, the prim and proper Dr. Camilia Patterson. Spa massages, light gambling, delicious food and relaxation is the plan. What could possibly go wrong? The lively ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village and Nana Jo throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam. Things spin out of control faster than a roulette wheel. The next morning, a dead body is found in their luxurious suite. Sam and the ladies, with the help of Detective "Stinky" Pitt, aim to discreetly solve the murder of a white man murdered on Native soil.
V.M. Burns has once again proven why she's one of the best at cozy mystery series. This cast of characters are a hoot with chemistry that leaps off the page. Every sleuth plays an important role in solving the murder and walks readers' through the investigation. I guessed the killer early on but there were other suspects that raised my brow thanks to good pacing.
A book within a book can be tricky. While I like that the main character is not only a mystery bookshop owner but an author, it takes some getting used to balancing both worlds. It was clear when the story changed from present-day to the novel-in-progress but I found myself skipping over the manuscript parts. It just wasn't as interesting and became a distraction. It did not help that this story-in-a-story was new to me.
Perhaps I will feel differently when I read the series in chronological order. This is the tenth book but the first I've read in this series. I enjoyed the characters enough to want to officially meet them starting with book one. The two poodles, Snickers and Oreo, are a bonus! Spend the remainder of Black History Month reading this new release by an author of color. It is a good representation of a generational Black family, Indigenous people, teamwork and smarts.
Happy Early Pub Day, V.M. Burns! The Next Deadly Chapter will be available Tuesday, February 25.
Disclaimer: An advance copy was received directly from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own and would be the same if I spent my hard-earned coins. ~LiteraryMarie
February 24, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from NetGalley. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns has Sam meeting Frank's mom for the first time at a casino.
Will Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends catch the murderer?
Samantha Washington
Sam is anxious about meeting her soon-to-be mother-in-law and isn't happy that she has to deal with a mystery besides the one she is writing. While on this trip with Nana Jo and her friends, as well as Frank's mom at a casino, she is working on her next book in her cozy historical mystery series. Sam is a good person who wants one event not to be involved in a police investigation.
I like Sam and how she sometimes disagrees with Frank's mom. What I like best is how she takes charge of solving a murder with all of her friends.
The Mystery
Dr. Camilia Patterson finds a dead body in her suite, which used to be Sam's, but then they switched to switch back, and she doesn't know how it got there. Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends help solve the mystery. This is a unique investigation as the dead body ends up disappearing from the room. Camilia also ends up helping, and it is a great bonding opportunity for the two of them. I had an inkling that I knew who it was, and I'm glad I was right, but wow, my reasoning as to why that person did it was off.
Five Stars
My rating for The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns is five stars. I'm trying to catch up on this series, but I do recommend it. Ms. Burns has a great way of putting you into the scenes with her characters and making you feel like you are there with them, trying to catch the killer.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns has Sam meeting Frank's mom for the first time at a casino.
Will Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends catch the murderer?
Samantha Washington
Sam is anxious about meeting her soon-to-be mother-in-law and isn't happy that she has to deal with a mystery besides the one she is writing. While on this trip with Nana Jo and her friends, as well as Frank's mom at a casino, she is working on her next book in her cozy historical mystery series. Sam is a good person who wants one event not to be involved in a police investigation.
I like Sam and how she sometimes disagrees with Frank's mom. What I like best is how she takes charge of solving a murder with all of her friends.
The Mystery
Dr. Camilia Patterson finds a dead body in her suite, which used to be Sam's, but then they switched to switch back, and she doesn't know how it got there. Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends help solve the mystery. This is a unique investigation as the dead body ends up disappearing from the room. Camilia also ends up helping, and it is a great bonding opportunity for the two of them. I had an inkling that I knew who it was, and I'm glad I was right, but wow, my reasoning as to why that person did it was off.
Five Stars
My rating for The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns is five stars. I'm trying to catch up on this series, but I do recommend it. Ms. Burns has a great way of putting you into the scenes with her characters and making you feel like you are there with them, trying to catch the killer.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of The Next Deadly Chapter by V.M. Burns.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
February 4, 2025
I would like to thank Netgalley, Kensington Publishing and V.M. Burns for the E ARC of this book.
Samantha is promoting her book at the Casino complex that herself, Nana Jo and the girls frequent. Whilst speaking she gets heckled by an elderly gentleman who is asked to leave after he is confronted by Nana Jo and security staff. The manager offers Samantha a complimentary long weekend staff for 6 people at the Casino Hotel and complex, as an apology.
She decides to use it whilst her fiancé’s mother is in town for a visit, Sam thinks it would be a good way to bond with her future Mother in Law, Camilia. The visit does not start well but things get smoothed over. The visit to the Hotel also does not go as planned when a dead body is found by her future mother in law, in her suite. Can Sam, Nana Jo, the gang, Stinky Pitt and Camilia find the killer before the main law enforcement arrive?
I loved seeing everyone go about their tasks, gain information and work together. Could there be a wee romance in the offing with Stinky Pitt and Camilia? I also enjoy seeing Sam’s work in progress take shape and the fact that she uses her writing during an investigation to help organise her thoughts and work out who the killer is and why.
Another good book in this series. I look forward to book 11.
Samantha is promoting her book at the Casino complex that herself, Nana Jo and the girls frequent. Whilst speaking she gets heckled by an elderly gentleman who is asked to leave after he is confronted by Nana Jo and security staff. The manager offers Samantha a complimentary long weekend staff for 6 people at the Casino Hotel and complex, as an apology.
She decides to use it whilst her fiancé’s mother is in town for a visit, Sam thinks it would be a good way to bond with her future Mother in Law, Camilia. The visit does not start well but things get smoothed over. The visit to the Hotel also does not go as planned when a dead body is found by her future mother in law, in her suite. Can Sam, Nana Jo, the gang, Stinky Pitt and Camilia find the killer before the main law enforcement arrive?
I loved seeing everyone go about their tasks, gain information and work together. Could there be a wee romance in the offing with Stinky Pitt and Camilia? I also enjoy seeing Sam’s work in progress take shape and the fact that she uses her writing during an investigation to help organise her thoughts and work out who the killer is and why.
Another good book in this series. I look forward to book 11.
June 24, 2025
The 10th book in the Mystery Bookshop series has Samantha Washington sticking her nose where it doesn’t belong, again. Sam runs the Mystery Bookshop and is a mystery writer. Both occupations keep her on her toes and keep her busy. Add in a wedding, and she doesn’t have two minutes to spare. Top it all off with meeting her future MIL for the first time, a murder, and you have a story that works with the series.
A bridal shower gone wrong, a casino, and suspects full of secrets, a body in her future MIL’s room, all make for a thought-provoking story with a wonderful ending. Suspects and red herrings are littered throughout the book. The relationships, as always, are great. Much of this story is both funny and exciting, with the mystery taking center stage. Nana Jo and the ladies are back, but they seem a bit too serious for my taste. The ending and unveiling of the killer came as no surprise, but the writing was good enough to keep me interested.
I enjoy this series; however, there is too much being repeated, and it could use some changes to keep it going.
A bridal shower gone wrong, a casino, and suspects full of secrets, a body in her future MIL’s room, all make for a thought-provoking story with a wonderful ending. Suspects and red herrings are littered throughout the book. The relationships, as always, are great. Much of this story is both funny and exciting, with the mystery taking center stage. Nana Jo and the ladies are back, but they seem a bit too serious for my taste. The ending and unveiling of the killer came as no surprise, but the writing was good enough to keep me interested.
I enjoy this series; however, there is too much being repeated, and it could use some changes to keep it going.
April 11, 2025
While I enjoyed this book, I do wish there would have been a bit more character development, especially between Sam and Camilla. I felt like that relationship felt quite rushed and changed too quickly, and I would have loved to have seen that fleshed out more, especially the dynamic between Camilla, Sam, and Frank, along with a little more backstory.
August 28, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "The Next Deadly Chapter" by V.M. Burns, the latest in the Mystery Bookshop series. It's book number 10, and all the gang is together again - and solving another mystery through their various strengths.
Now a published author, Samantha Washington is giving a talk to an audience when she's interrupted numerous times by a man who does nothing but scoff at women writers, mystery writers, cozy mysteries..... he's finally escorted out of the venue, and as an apology Samantha is offered a VIP pass to the Four Feathers Casino, run by a local Indigenous People's tribe for her and her friends,
Coincidentally, in the run up to her's and Frank's upcoming nuptials, Frank's mother is coming to town to finally meet her prospective daughter-in-law. So this is the perfect opportunity to make a good impression, or so Sam hopes.
Feeling out of place in the opulent VIP suite that the Casino put her up in, Sam switches with Camilia (Dr. Garrett, as she cannot help calling her), and the next morning receives a frantic phone call: there's a body in the suite! And it turns out that this is the man who heckled Samantha the day before. But, when the authorities arrive, the corpse has gone missing.
Thus begins a twisty tale of dirty deeds and infidelities, featuring all of the usual cast of characters who have inhabit all of the previous books: Nana Jo, "Stinky" Pitt, Irma, Samantha's fiancé, Frank and Ruby (she of the massive extended family). And of course, at the same time Samantha is working on her latest cozy English mystery.
I sailed through this one in one day, not because it's a short story, but because I was simply sucked back in to the exploits of Samantha and her friends. Can be read as a standalone, but I believe most readers would enjoy the whole series. It's like reading two books in one, every time.
Now a published author, Samantha Washington is giving a talk to an audience when she's interrupted numerous times by a man who does nothing but scoff at women writers, mystery writers, cozy mysteries..... he's finally escorted out of the venue, and as an apology Samantha is offered a VIP pass to the Four Feathers Casino, run by a local Indigenous People's tribe for her and her friends,
Coincidentally, in the run up to her's and Frank's upcoming nuptials, Frank's mother is coming to town to finally meet her prospective daughter-in-law. So this is the perfect opportunity to make a good impression, or so Sam hopes.
Feeling out of place in the opulent VIP suite that the Casino put her up in, Sam switches with Camilia (Dr. Garrett, as she cannot help calling her), and the next morning receives a frantic phone call: there's a body in the suite! And it turns out that this is the man who heckled Samantha the day before. But, when the authorities arrive, the corpse has gone missing.
Thus begins a twisty tale of dirty deeds and infidelities, featuring all of the usual cast of characters who have inhabit all of the previous books: Nana Jo, "Stinky" Pitt, Irma, Samantha's fiancé, Frank and Ruby (she of the massive extended family). And of course, at the same time Samantha is working on her latest cozy English mystery.
I sailed through this one in one day, not because it's a short story, but because I was simply sucked back in to the exploits of Samantha and her friends. Can be read as a standalone, but I believe most readers would enjoy the whole series. It's like reading two books in one, every time.
January 15, 2025
1 star
I usually love this series and this author but wow this was bad. Future mil finds a dead body in hotel room, they switch rooms, call multiple people, order breakfast yet still haven't called the police.
I deleted at @38%. I just cannot read anymore of this mess.
I received a complimentary copy from netgalley and the publisher.
I usually love this series and this author but wow this was bad. Future mil finds a dead body in hotel room, they switch rooms, call multiple people, order breakfast yet still haven't called the police.
I deleted at @38%. I just cannot read anymore of this mess.
I received a complimentary copy from netgalley and the publisher.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 9, 2025
THE NEXT DEADLY CHAPTER by V. M. Burns is the 10th book in the Mystery Bookshop series. It’s the wonderfully written cozy mystery centered around Samantha “Sam” Washington, book shop owner and recently published author. With a book promoting event, a free stay at a 5-star resort, meeting her future mother-in-law for the first time, a bridal shower, and finding a dead body all add up to Sam pulling out her amateur sleuthing skills.
Sam is a former high school English teacher and now owner of Market Street Mysteries, a mystery book store. She lives above the store with her two poodles, Snickers and Oreo. She’s also engaged to Frank Patterson. Having just published her first book – Murder at Wickfield Lodge, a cozy mystery England set in 1939, she’s excited to promote it, with hopes of it being well received. However, at a recent event at the Pontolomas Senior Citizen Center, things turned ugly due to a constant heckler. Due to his appearance and not knowing his name, she had tubbed him Mr. Toad Throat. Kai Strongbow, tribal leader and member of tribal council of Four Feathers, managed to dispose of the man and then gifted her with a complimentary stay at Four Feathers Casino and Resort for the entire four-day weekend all expenses paid for Sam and five friends to try to make amends. The accommodations are 5 star amazing - to say the least. Sam’s huge VIP suite is on the top floor that needs a special key to even get the elevator to that floor. As a nice gesture to her future mother-in-law, Sam changes to one of the smaller, but still extremely nice, suites and gives the huge one to Camilla.
The “girls” decided to throw a bridal shower, complete with stripper, for Sam while at Four Feathers. While everyone seemed to be having a ton of fun, it just wasn’t Sam’s idea of a fun evening. She eventually broke away from the rest of them and headed back to her suite. There she could lose herself in another time and place while writing her next book. Hours later she got a frantic call from Frank’s mother telling her to please come to her suite immediately. That’s when Sam encountered the body of the heckler cold and definitely dead in the suite that originally was to have been hers. Thinking of Camilla’s reputation and a possible upcoming promotion, they decided to switch back rooms and then report the dead body as being found in Sam’s suite. However, by the time they switch and found someone to report it to, the body is GONE!
While the body of the heckler, eventually turns up some place else, can they keep Camilla’s name out of it? With the body being found twice by Sam, can she prove that she had nothing to do with the demise of Oscar Pembrook? When Detective “Stinky” Pitt enters the case, can they work together? Who has jurisdiction – tribal, local or the feds – when it’s definitely proven to be a case of murder? Is it true that complete opposites do attract? Was the fear of meeting her future M-I-L completely unfounded? Will the “girls” from the Shady Acres Retirement Village (Nana Jo - Sam’s grandmother, Dorothy – Nana Jo’s best friend, Ruby Mae – the youngest, Irma -oldest) and Jenna - Sam’s sister who is an attorney be able to help find the clues to figure out whodunit? While Frank has to deal with his only irons in the fire at work and can’t be there like he wishes he could, will his connections help to find answers to some of the questions? Will getting close to the answer put Sam in imminent danger? Can the security at Four Feathers help keep her safe?
THE NEXT DEADLY CHAPTER will have you quickly turning pages as you search alongside the other amateur sleuths for clues. V. M. Burns has a way of bring one up to speed on all the character while having us falling in love with all of them – both in Sam’s real world and the world she’s writing about. The sweet romance between Sam and Frank runs though this installment all while getting them closer to their big day. THE NEXT DEADLY CHAPTER is positively FIVE STAR reading! While it can most definitely be read as a standalone book, I’m sure it will have you wanting to read the books before it and be anxious for the next installment in the Mystery Bookshop series.
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#TheNextDeadlyChapter #MysteryBookshop #VMBurns #KensingtonBooks #cozymystery
Sam is a former high school English teacher and now owner of Market Street Mysteries, a mystery book store. She lives above the store with her two poodles, Snickers and Oreo. She’s also engaged to Frank Patterson. Having just published her first book – Murder at Wickfield Lodge, a cozy mystery England set in 1939, she’s excited to promote it, with hopes of it being well received. However, at a recent event at the Pontolomas Senior Citizen Center, things turned ugly due to a constant heckler. Due to his appearance and not knowing his name, she had tubbed him Mr. Toad Throat. Kai Strongbow, tribal leader and member of tribal council of Four Feathers, managed to dispose of the man and then gifted her with a complimentary stay at Four Feathers Casino and Resort for the entire four-day weekend all expenses paid for Sam and five friends to try to make amends. The accommodations are 5 star amazing - to say the least. Sam’s huge VIP suite is on the top floor that needs a special key to even get the elevator to that floor. As a nice gesture to her future mother-in-law, Sam changes to one of the smaller, but still extremely nice, suites and gives the huge one to Camilla.
The “girls” decided to throw a bridal shower, complete with stripper, for Sam while at Four Feathers. While everyone seemed to be having a ton of fun, it just wasn’t Sam’s idea of a fun evening. She eventually broke away from the rest of them and headed back to her suite. There she could lose herself in another time and place while writing her next book. Hours later she got a frantic call from Frank’s mother telling her to please come to her suite immediately. That’s when Sam encountered the body of the heckler cold and definitely dead in the suite that originally was to have been hers. Thinking of Camilla’s reputation and a possible upcoming promotion, they decided to switch back rooms and then report the dead body as being found in Sam’s suite. However, by the time they switch and found someone to report it to, the body is GONE!
While the body of the heckler, eventually turns up some place else, can they keep Camilla’s name out of it? With the body being found twice by Sam, can she prove that she had nothing to do with the demise of Oscar Pembrook? When Detective “Stinky” Pitt enters the case, can they work together? Who has jurisdiction – tribal, local or the feds – when it’s definitely proven to be a case of murder? Is it true that complete opposites do attract? Was the fear of meeting her future M-I-L completely unfounded? Will the “girls” from the Shady Acres Retirement Village (Nana Jo - Sam’s grandmother, Dorothy – Nana Jo’s best friend, Ruby Mae – the youngest, Irma -oldest) and Jenna - Sam’s sister who is an attorney be able to help find the clues to figure out whodunit? While Frank has to deal with his only irons in the fire at work and can’t be there like he wishes he could, will his connections help to find answers to some of the questions? Will getting close to the answer put Sam in imminent danger? Can the security at Four Feathers help keep her safe?
THE NEXT DEADLY CHAPTER will have you quickly turning pages as you search alongside the other amateur sleuths for clues. V. M. Burns has a way of bring one up to speed on all the character while having us falling in love with all of them – both in Sam’s real world and the world she’s writing about. The sweet romance between Sam and Frank runs though this installment all while getting them closer to their big day. THE NEXT DEADLY CHAPTER is positively FIVE STAR reading! While it can most definitely be read as a standalone book, I’m sure it will have you wanting to read the books before it and be anxious for the next installment in the Mystery Bookshop series.
I receive an ARC of this book with no requirement or expectations of a review. All opinions are completely my own.
#TheNextDeadlyChapter #MysteryBookshop #VMBurns #KensingtonBooks #cozymystery
March 13, 2025
https://openbooksociety.com/article/t...
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
I fully enjoyed this exciting new Mystery Bookshop title! The eclectic, well-defined characters always welcome me into their tale, and now we will meet Sam’s (Samantha’s) future mother-in-law, Dr. Camilia Patterson. I did not like Camilia at first, but felt much better about her by the end. The primary setting was the Four Feathers Resort and Casino on the Pontolomas Reservation near Sam’s southwest Michigan home and bookshop. The author continues to deliver two mysteries; Sam recently published her first cozy/historical novel, and shares her work in progress throughout.
The wedding of Sam (Samantha) and Frank is only weeks away, and she is meeting her future mother-in-law, (“…call me Dr. Patterson”) for the first time. Sam is a warm and loving woman, and Dr. Patterson was neither.
Before Camilia arrived, Sam gave a book talk and signing at the reservation. There was an obnoxious elderly man who heckled her throughout. Nana Jo, her black-belted grandmother, had a few words with the man before Kai, a tribal leader, kicked him out. As an apology, Kai gave Sam and five of her friends the accommodations to spend a four-day weekend at the resort. A simple apology would have sufficed, but Kai insisted, and Dr. Patterson might enjoy the luxury.
Dr. Patterson had a ‘tude when she arrived. Sam enjoys spending time Nana Jo and her best friends from Shady Acres Retirement Village. Dorothy, Ruby Mae, and Irma are like family to Nana Jo as well as Sam. The doctor was cold to all except her beloved son, Frank. At least Sam’s grandmother and his mother began to bond over Murder She Wrote.
When Sam and her guests arrived in the Four Feathers limousine, Sam was given an upgraded, 5,000 square foot penthouse, while the others had the usual luxury suites. Sam traded with Dr. Patterson and felt better on the third floor with Nana Jo and her friends.
Very early the next morning, Dr. Patterson called Sam to her suite. She pointed out a man lying on the floor, wearing only a robe, who was quite dead. This wasn’t just any dead guy, though. It was the rude man who had interrupted her book talk and signing. He was also the owner of the accounting firm recently awarded the contract to audit the books for the resort and casino. They stepped away to change their suites back as originally assigned. Frank’s mother – finally “call me Camilia” – was up for a special promotion and could not afford publicity.
Sam called her sister, Jenna, a pit bull of a defense attorney, and Detective “Stinky” Pitt, with the South Harbor police, as they were not yet certain which law enforcement agency had jurisdiction on the reservation. When they returned to the room, the dead body was gone! The photo Sam took with her phone was the only proof of the dead man.
Thus begins their first full day of luxury and relaxation. They met with Kai and the tribal police chief, who have three days before reporting it to the FBI. Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends have helped Detective Pitt, with murder cases in the past, but Sam didn’t want to get involved yet again. However, to avoid media attention at the resort, they began to search for the body and the killer themselves.
Much to their shock, Camilia, the epitome of elegance and propriety, and Detective Pitt, king of the 1970’s brightly-hued, polyester attire, seemed to be making eyes at each other! They learned what they could from other law enforcement agencies police as Sam, Nana Joe, Irma, Dorothy, and Ruby Mae talked to the dead guy’s widow, his mistress, and his former and his current business partners.
The author seamlessly weaves together panic, laugh-out-loud antics of the older ladies, and pre-WWII British murder into present day Michigan. Many clues, flawlessly executed twists, and a deadly threat to Sam enhanced the adventure. The mysteries in both eras were solved, and was I ever surprised! The resolutions were very satisfying. I highly recommend this to those who appreciate well-written contemporary and pre-WWII mysteries.
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
I fully enjoyed this exciting new Mystery Bookshop title! The eclectic, well-defined characters always welcome me into their tale, and now we will meet Sam’s (Samantha’s) future mother-in-law, Dr. Camilia Patterson. I did not like Camilia at first, but felt much better about her by the end. The primary setting was the Four Feathers Resort and Casino on the Pontolomas Reservation near Sam’s southwest Michigan home and bookshop. The author continues to deliver two mysteries; Sam recently published her first cozy/historical novel, and shares her work in progress throughout.
The wedding of Sam (Samantha) and Frank is only weeks away, and she is meeting her future mother-in-law, (“…call me Dr. Patterson”) for the first time. Sam is a warm and loving woman, and Dr. Patterson was neither.
Before Camilia arrived, Sam gave a book talk and signing at the reservation. There was an obnoxious elderly man who heckled her throughout. Nana Jo, her black-belted grandmother, had a few words with the man before Kai, a tribal leader, kicked him out. As an apology, Kai gave Sam and five of her friends the accommodations to spend a four-day weekend at the resort. A simple apology would have sufficed, but Kai insisted, and Dr. Patterson might enjoy the luxury.
Dr. Patterson had a ‘tude when she arrived. Sam enjoys spending time Nana Jo and her best friends from Shady Acres Retirement Village. Dorothy, Ruby Mae, and Irma are like family to Nana Jo as well as Sam. The doctor was cold to all except her beloved son, Frank. At least Sam’s grandmother and his mother began to bond over Murder She Wrote.
When Sam and her guests arrived in the Four Feathers limousine, Sam was given an upgraded, 5,000 square foot penthouse, while the others had the usual luxury suites. Sam traded with Dr. Patterson and felt better on the third floor with Nana Jo and her friends.
Very early the next morning, Dr. Patterson called Sam to her suite. She pointed out a man lying on the floor, wearing only a robe, who was quite dead. This wasn’t just any dead guy, though. It was the rude man who had interrupted her book talk and signing. He was also the owner of the accounting firm recently awarded the contract to audit the books for the resort and casino. They stepped away to change their suites back as originally assigned. Frank’s mother – finally “call me Camilia” – was up for a special promotion and could not afford publicity.
Sam called her sister, Jenna, a pit bull of a defense attorney, and Detective “Stinky” Pitt, with the South Harbor police, as they were not yet certain which law enforcement agency had jurisdiction on the reservation. When they returned to the room, the dead body was gone! The photo Sam took with her phone was the only proof of the dead man.
Thus begins their first full day of luxury and relaxation. They met with Kai and the tribal police chief, who have three days before reporting it to the FBI. Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends have helped Detective Pitt, with murder cases in the past, but Sam didn’t want to get involved yet again. However, to avoid media attention at the resort, they began to search for the body and the killer themselves.
Much to their shock, Camilia, the epitome of elegance and propriety, and Detective Pitt, king of the 1970’s brightly-hued, polyester attire, seemed to be making eyes at each other! They learned what they could from other law enforcement agencies police as Sam, Nana Joe, Irma, Dorothy, and Ruby Mae talked to the dead guy’s widow, his mistress, and his former and his current business partners.
The author seamlessly weaves together panic, laugh-out-loud antics of the older ladies, and pre-WWII British murder into present day Michigan. Many clues, flawlessly executed twists, and a deadly threat to Sam enhanced the adventure. The mysteries in both eras were solved, and was I ever surprised! The resolutions were very satisfying. I highly recommend this to those who appreciate well-written contemporary and pre-WWII mysteries.
May 4, 2025
For once, I actually read the book within a book, and I liked it better than the main mystery. That was a surprise to me because in the past I have just skipped through most of the inner book. When I saw that England was nearing the time when they joined in WWII, that caught my interest. I didn't realize that there were so many the parallels between the two time lines or see how events in Sam's life influenced the book she was writing and how the book she was writing helped her brain process clues to help solve the contemporary story. I also liked the idea that a classic piece of English literature helped solve the mystery in both timelines. I'm not naming it since it might be a spoiler for anyone who has read that book but not yet read this one!
I also encountered a mystery about the typesetting for the inner book. I'm not sure if it was a word processing problem or a problem converting the text to Kindle format. For some reason, longer words had a space in the middle of a word for no reason. So mystery might appear as my stery. It frequently happened with people's names. It didn't happen within the main story—only the book that Sam was writing. I started counting, and one chapter of the inside book had 18 different words with that strange space in the middle. It didn't affect my rating, but it was distracting at times. The only good thing was that it kept me reading the inner story.
I liked the casino where they stayed. It's sad they didn't get to enjoy the luxury experience due to the pesky murder investigation. I wanted more casino stories and less investigation. I also missed the dogs. Maybe they'll get a do over in thanks or their help solving the case and be able to bring the dogs with them. I like these characters so much, I'd gladly read a book with no murder to solve, but I suppose that will never happen. Finally getting to meet Frank's mother was probably one of my favorite parts of the book. She was exactly what I expected...and then she wasn't!
I'm looking forward to the next book to see how the totally unexpected mismatched budding romance will unfold. The thought of it just makes me shudder!
I also encountered a mystery about the typesetting for the inner book. I'm not sure if it was a word processing problem or a problem converting the text to Kindle format. For some reason, longer words had a space in the middle of a word for no reason. So mystery might appear as my stery. It frequently happened with people's names. It didn't happen within the main story—only the book that Sam was writing. I started counting, and one chapter of the inside book had 18 different words with that strange space in the middle. It didn't affect my rating, but it was distracting at times. The only good thing was that it kept me reading the inner story.
I liked the casino where they stayed. It's sad they didn't get to enjoy the luxury experience due to the pesky murder investigation. I wanted more casino stories and less investigation. I also missed the dogs. Maybe they'll get a do over in thanks or their help solving the case and be able to bring the dogs with them. I like these characters so much, I'd gladly read a book with no murder to solve, but I suppose that will never happen. Finally getting to meet Frank's mother was probably one of my favorite parts of the book. She was exactly what I expected...and then she wasn't!
I'm looking forward to the next book to see how the totally unexpected mismatched budding romance will unfold. The thought of it just makes me shudder!
August 10, 2025
The Next Deadly Chapter is the tenth in the Mystery Bookshop cozy mystery series by V.M. Burns. Although I've read other books by this author, this one is the first I've read in this series. Nevertheless, I was able to catch up with the characters and their relationships enough to enjoy the mystery.
Samantha ("Sam"), the first-person protagonist, is a bookstore owner and author of historical cozy mysteries. When the story opens, Sam is giving a talk about her new novel at the Pontolomas Senior Center and gets heckled by a disagreeable man in the audience. He is determined to disrupt her presentation, berating cozy mysteries and women in general. Nana Jo, Sam's grandmother, confronts the heckler and is about to physically attack him when management breaks things up and evicts the rude man. As compensation, the manager, who is one of the tribal leaders, offers Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends a complimentary weekend at their casino and resort on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Sam is already nervous that her fiancé's mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson, is coming for a visit that weekend—and it's the first time they've met. Although their initial interaction is frosty, Camilia soon fits in with Nana Jo and her partying friends. Then, their first night at the resort, the dead body of Sam's heckler turns up in Camilia's room.
The group launches into investigation mode. Jurisdiction is complicated because the murder took place on tribal lands. And before the cops can arrive on the scene, the body has disappeared, later to turn up in the lake.
While investigating the current crime, Sam is busy writing her next mystery novel, and the reader sees snippets of that as an interlude. The stories didn't exactly line up, but the pacing was similar. Sam used her writing as an escape to think when she was stuck.
This was a fast-paced, enjoyable mystery populated by fun, lovable characters.
Samantha ("Sam"), the first-person protagonist, is a bookstore owner and author of historical cozy mysteries. When the story opens, Sam is giving a talk about her new novel at the Pontolomas Senior Center and gets heckled by a disagreeable man in the audience. He is determined to disrupt her presentation, berating cozy mysteries and women in general. Nana Jo, Sam's grandmother, confronts the heckler and is about to physically attack him when management breaks things up and evicts the rude man. As compensation, the manager, who is one of the tribal leaders, offers Sam, Nana Jo, and their friends a complimentary weekend at their casino and resort on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Sam is already nervous that her fiancé's mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson, is coming for a visit that weekend—and it's the first time they've met. Although their initial interaction is frosty, Camilia soon fits in with Nana Jo and her partying friends. Then, their first night at the resort, the dead body of Sam's heckler turns up in Camilia's room.
The group launches into investigation mode. Jurisdiction is complicated because the murder took place on tribal lands. And before the cops can arrive on the scene, the body has disappeared, later to turn up in the lake.
While investigating the current crime, Sam is busy writing her next mystery novel, and the reader sees snippets of that as an interlude. The stories didn't exactly line up, but the pacing was similar. Sam used her writing as an escape to think when she was stuck.
This was a fast-paced, enjoyable mystery populated by fun, lovable characters.
April 14, 2025
“The Next Deadly Chapter” the eleventh book in V.M. Burns Mystery Bookshop cozy mystery series, takes author/bookstore owner Samantha Washington away from her bookstore and off to a casino with Nana Jo, Nana’s friends at the Shady Acres Retirement Village, and Camilia, her soon to be mother-in-law. Sam is worried that she won’t get along with Camilia but when a dead body is found in Camilia’s hotel room, the two quickly join forces to find the killer.
I really enjoyed this mystery. There is a lot to love about this series – starting with main character Sam – the books contain a mystery within a mystery (the book that Sam is writing which actually helps her solve the main mystery) which cannot be easy to write but I find both mysteries enjoyable. I also like Nana Jo and her friends – it is nice having elderly characters who, while they are funny are never made fun of and play an active part in solving the mystery. The introduction of Camilia was a good one – at first I thought she was going to be a stereotypical difficult mother-in-law but she turned out to be so much more than that and her storyline took an unexpected turn that may surprise longtime readers of the series. The casino setting was a good one, even if you are not a gambler, and I found myself craving tea several times while reading the book! The mystery (both mysteries) was well done with just the right amount of suspects – I did figure out close to the end of the book who the killer was but there were still parts of the mystery that I didn’t figure out until it was explained. All in all another enjoyable mystery from Burns.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
I really enjoyed this mystery. There is a lot to love about this series – starting with main character Sam – the books contain a mystery within a mystery (the book that Sam is writing which actually helps her solve the main mystery) which cannot be easy to write but I find both mysteries enjoyable. I also like Nana Jo and her friends – it is nice having elderly characters who, while they are funny are never made fun of and play an active part in solving the mystery. The introduction of Camilia was a good one – at first I thought she was going to be a stereotypical difficult mother-in-law but she turned out to be so much more than that and her storyline took an unexpected turn that may surprise longtime readers of the series. The casino setting was a good one, even if you are not a gambler, and I found myself craving tea several times while reading the book! The mystery (both mysteries) was well done with just the right amount of suspects – I did figure out close to the end of the book who the killer was but there were still parts of the mystery that I didn’t figure out until it was explained. All in all another enjoyable mystery from Burns.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley.
February 15, 2025
I enjoyed this addition to the Mystery Bookshop series but I found the plot to be a little weird. I loved that Ms. Burns had a lot of the supporting characters in this story as they always make it feel like returning home to friends when I read them.
Samantha Washington is doing a book signing at a Senior Center on tribal lands when she is heckled by an outsider. The outsider is then rousted out by the tribal leader and Sam is given a weekend at the Four Feathers Casino and Resort in compensation for this nasty person. Treating this as her bachelorette party, Nana Jo and the girls go along with her and her soon to be MIL and party hearty. Unfortunately, the heckler ends up dead in what is supposed to be Sam's room and of course she gets involved with the investigation despite having no connections to this person (which is part of what I thought was weird).
I missed some of the younger characters, her baker Dawson and of course the poodles who did not go to the hotel with Sam. I thought the introduction of Camilla Patterson, the soon to be MIL and her frosty relationship with Sam that becomes warm and fuzzy through the most bizarre situation possible was a bit of a stretch.
I really like these books and I hope the next one is their wedding.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Samantha Washington is doing a book signing at a Senior Center on tribal lands when she is heckled by an outsider. The outsider is then rousted out by the tribal leader and Sam is given a weekend at the Four Feathers Casino and Resort in compensation for this nasty person. Treating this as her bachelorette party, Nana Jo and the girls go along with her and her soon to be MIL and party hearty. Unfortunately, the heckler ends up dead in what is supposed to be Sam's room and of course she gets involved with the investigation despite having no connections to this person (which is part of what I thought was weird).
I missed some of the younger characters, her baker Dawson and of course the poodles who did not go to the hotel with Sam. I thought the introduction of Camilla Patterson, the soon to be MIL and her frosty relationship with Sam that becomes warm and fuzzy through the most bizarre situation possible was a bit of a stretch.
I really like these books and I hope the next one is their wedding.
My thanks to Kensington Cozies and Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2025
I confess I often enjoy the story within the story as much as the plot. Sam is working on her novel set in aristocratic Britain in 1939 but the characters in the primary story are anything but aristocratics. In fact, the deceased is a misogynistic rude and corrupt toad of a man. He has so many schemes and cons going on, it is a wonder no one knocked him off beforehand.
Sam is spending a comped weekend at the lavish casino and hotel on indigenous land. The tribal leader is pulling out all the stops to compensate for an embarrassing heckler at a book reading. Sam is with the future mother in law that she has just met and the woman is so frosty Sam is going to need gloves to handle her. Kid gloves. But the weekend is full of surprises, some very pleasant and some not so. Because the body was found in Sam’s suite before it disappeared, when it resurfaces, she and her motley crew of friends and family combine their impressive resources to help the tribe solve the murder before it gets handed off to Federal officials.
There are the close calls and the red herrings one expects. Some of the characters are truly fascinating including many of the tribal representatives. With the help of Sam’s team they figure out who did the deed. I had suspected the person from the get-go bet it is always fun to see if I am right.
Four purrs and two paws up.
Sam is spending a comped weekend at the lavish casino and hotel on indigenous land. The tribal leader is pulling out all the stops to compensate for an embarrassing heckler at a book reading. Sam is with the future mother in law that she has just met and the woman is so frosty Sam is going to need gloves to handle her. Kid gloves. But the weekend is full of surprises, some very pleasant and some not so. Because the body was found in Sam’s suite before it disappeared, when it resurfaces, she and her motley crew of friends and family combine their impressive resources to help the tribe solve the murder before it gets handed off to Federal officials.
There are the close calls and the red herrings one expects. Some of the characters are truly fascinating including many of the tribal representatives. With the help of Sam’s team they figure out who did the deed. I had suspected the person from the get-go bet it is always fun to see if I am right.
Four purrs and two paws up.
February 16, 2025
The Next Deadly Chapter is the 10th Mystery Bookshop mystery. I have read all of the previous books and look forward to reading the next every time. The author has a great cast of characters and has creative situations for each mystery. Best of all there are two mysteries in each book. The main character Samantha Washington is an author who writes historical mysteries, so each book has a historical mystery that plays out in tandem with the modern mystery that is the focus of each book.
Sam is meeting her future mother in law for the first time and she is extremely nervous. It actually throws her off her game for the first 1/3 of the book.
An odious man is murdered. Sam gets involved because the body initially turns up in her room.
I love the interplay between the cast - Sam, Nanna Jo, Jenna, Irma, Dorothy, Ruby Mae and Frank. We can’t forget Stinky Pitt, who may need to go by his actual name if certain events continue past this book.
As always for this series, The Next Deadly Chapter was a delight to read. I highly recommend the Mystery Bookshop series. Read it in order just so you can be delighted by the interactions of the characters as they figure out mysteries together.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
Sam is meeting her future mother in law for the first time and she is extremely nervous. It actually throws her off her game for the first 1/3 of the book.
An odious man is murdered. Sam gets involved because the body initially turns up in her room.
I love the interplay between the cast - Sam, Nanna Jo, Jenna, Irma, Dorothy, Ruby Mae and Frank. We can’t forget Stinky Pitt, who may need to go by his actual name if certain events continue past this book.
As always for this series, The Next Deadly Chapter was a delight to read. I highly recommend the Mystery Bookshop series. Read it in order just so you can be delighted by the interactions of the characters as they figure out mysteries together.
Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
February 19, 2025
This 10th installment has Sam nervous about her future mother-in-law coming to town. Sam's Nana Jo has managed to arrange a free stay at the Four Feathers Casino Resort after Sam was heckled by a gentleman while she was giving an author talk at the Resort. Nana Jo thinks this is perfect as a bachelorette party for Sam, Nana Jo and the Retirement Community Posse as well as Sam's future mother-in-law, Camilla. A man is found dead by Camilla in her room. Sam and her senior posse need to wrap this case before the feds arrive to take over. They even get North Harbour Det. Pitt involved.
I love this series! I hate when the story comes to an end, and I have to leave my North Harbour friends. Nana Jo is a hoot, and with the network and characters of the retirement village posse, they could solve the problems of the world!
This story has a lot of heart, humor and a darned good mystery. In fact, there is a mystery in the mystery since Sam reduces her stress by writing her next novel. Both are good mysteries with several possible suspects. This book is just frankly a good time! Be prepared to not want to put it down.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the chance to read and give my hones review of this ARC.
I love this series! I hate when the story comes to an end, and I have to leave my North Harbour friends. Nana Jo is a hoot, and with the network and characters of the retirement village posse, they could solve the problems of the world!
This story has a lot of heart, humor and a darned good mystery. In fact, there is a mystery in the mystery since Sam reduces her stress by writing her next novel. Both are good mysteries with several possible suspects. This book is just frankly a good time! Be prepared to not want to put it down.
Thank you NetGalley and Kensington Books for the chance to read and give my hones review of this ARC.
September 23, 2025
Michigan bookshop owner and mystery writer Samantha Washington is engaged to be married, and set to meet her future mother-in-law, Dr. Camilia Patterson. Nano Jo and the ladies of Shady Acres Retirement Village throw a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Four Feathers Casino. She's embarrassed and slips back to her room to work on her latest historical mystery set between the wars, in which a houseguest meets a grim end at an English country manor. The next morning, Sam gets a call from Camilia, who’s discovered a dead body in her room. Now Sam has to find a killer and keep her future mother-in-law out of the fire.
I loved this cozy mystery. It's full of fun characters, dastardly suspects, and a plot that was both interesting and compelling. This author actually combines two different mysteries into one story. There is the main mystery set in contemporary times, and a mystery that is written by the main character set in England in the 20th century. I would love to see a full novel of the historical mystery. The author makes each setting come alive through her words. I can't wait to read the next novel in this wonderful series. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
I loved this cozy mystery. It's full of fun characters, dastardly suspects, and a plot that was both interesting and compelling. This author actually combines two different mysteries into one story. There is the main mystery set in contemporary times, and a mystery that is written by the main character set in England in the 20th century. I would love to see a full novel of the historical mystery. The author makes each setting come alive through her words. I can't wait to read the next novel in this wonderful series. Thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this advanced reader's copy. This review is my honest opinion.
January 28, 2025
t is always exciting to read a new addition to V B Burns' Mystery Bookshop series, and The Next Deadly Chapter is well worth the wait. Don't miss this one-- coming out on February 25th!
is included when Frank's mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson , flies in for 'a meet and greet' with Sam before the upcoming wedding. Nana Jo and her crew plan a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Native American Resort and Spa for a relaxing weekend. Unfortunately, there is a murder and it is all hands on deck to investigate. As usual the pace is fast, the twists and turns are great for clues, and the crazy--but fun-- situations flow. In the middle of all this Sam is writing another installment to her published English murder mystery series. A book that begins to reflect the real-life murder.
I enjoy the historical murder as much as the contemporary one. A great cozy mystery with all the fun and 'feels' I want. I loved it.
Thank you for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of this fun series! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheNextDeadlyChapter #NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #VMBurns
#MysteryBookshop
is included when Frank's mother, Dr. Camilia Patterson , flies in for 'a meet and greet' with Sam before the upcoming wedding. Nana Jo and her crew plan a surprise bridal shower for Sam at the Native American Resort and Spa for a relaxing weekend. Unfortunately, there is a murder and it is all hands on deck to investigate. As usual the pace is fast, the twists and turns are great for clues, and the crazy--but fun-- situations flow. In the middle of all this Sam is writing another installment to her published English murder mystery series. A book that begins to reflect the real-life murder.
I enjoy the historical murder as much as the contemporary one. A great cozy mystery with all the fun and 'feels' I want. I loved it.
Thank you for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy of this fun series! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
#TheNextDeadlyChapter #NetGalley #KensingtonCozies #VMBurns
#MysteryBookshop
February 23, 2025
I absolutely love this series and how Nana Jo and her friends from the retirement village always end up helping Sam with a case. Jenna even was in on the act this time since the tribal leader of the casino resort they were staying at requested her after a body was found in what was originally Sam’s room. Can you guess who was staying in her room instead of Sam? That might’ve been the start of Sam and her future mom-in-law getting acquainted, lol. Dr. Camilia proved to be quite human and useful to the case as well. And a certain detective found himself attracted to her—let that hilarity begin!
Nana Jo was at her hilarious best and my favorite scene with Det. Pitt getting off the elevator and Nana Jo’s reaction was hysterical! For this and tons of other fun stuff (like one of my favorite returning jokes when Irma almost says something naughty and they all go, “Irma!”—gotta love it!), don’t miss this latest installment! This mystery was truly a group effort when it was solved after a tense showdown. That perp never saw what was coming lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Nana Jo was at her hilarious best and my favorite scene with Det. Pitt getting off the elevator and Nana Jo’s reaction was hysterical! For this and tons of other fun stuff (like one of my favorite returning jokes when Irma almost says something naughty and they all go, “Irma!”—gotta love it!), don’t miss this latest installment! This mystery was truly a group effort when it was solved after a tense showdown. That perp never saw what was coming lol.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Kensington Cozies via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
September 23, 2025
The Next Deadly Chapter is the tenth cozy mystery in the Mystery Bookshop series. As her wedding date approaches, Sam wants to make a good impression on her soon to be mother in law. They go to Four Feathers Casino, along with Sam’s grandma and her grandma’s friends. Instead of the relaxing bonding trip Sam was hoping for they stumble upon another dead body and right into a murder investigation. Unable to help themselves, Sam and her sidekicks are ready to sleuth until they uncover the truth.
I have enjoyed this series since I started reading it and this book was no different. I love the characters and the humor that comes with ladies from the retirement village. The layout of this book with two different mysteries is creative and something unique to this series. The present day mystery is taking place, but on the side we have the historical mystery book Sam is writing unfolding on the pages. This is a fun idea and I’ve enjoyed it in every one of these books so far. The mystery in this book pulled me in and kept me guessing until the end. This was an enjoyable cozy mystery and I look forward to reading what comes next for Sam and her friends.
I have enjoyed this series since I started reading it and this book was no different. I love the characters and the humor that comes with ladies from the retirement village. The layout of this book with two different mysteries is creative and something unique to this series. The present day mystery is taking place, but on the side we have the historical mystery book Sam is writing unfolding on the pages. This is a fun idea and I’ve enjoyed it in every one of these books so far. The mystery in this book pulled me in and kept me guessing until the end. This was an enjoyable cozy mystery and I look forward to reading what comes next for Sam and her friends.
January 27, 2025
Every year I look forward to the next installment in V.M. Burns' Mystery Bookshop series; and I have never been disappointed. Sam's new historical mystery was a bonus with just enough mystery and twists to keep me guessing.
Sam, Nana Jo, the ladies from Shady Acres Retirement Village and Dr. Camilla Patterson (Sam's soon to be mother-in-law) are spending a weekend at the Four Feathers Casino. Dr. Patterson seems to be very proper and almost dismissive of Sam but that soon changes when Camilla wakes up to find a dead body in her suite. Sam Calls Detective Pitt and the sleuthing begins.
Plenty of twists, limited suspects but all with motive, and Sam trying to protect Camilla's reputation made for a smoothly paced story until the surprising and dramatic reveal.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Sam, Nana Jo, the ladies from Shady Acres Retirement Village and Dr. Camilla Patterson (Sam's soon to be mother-in-law) are spending a weekend at the Four Feathers Casino. Dr. Patterson seems to be very proper and almost dismissive of Sam but that soon changes when Camilla wakes up to find a dead body in her suite. Sam Calls Detective Pitt and the sleuthing begins.
Plenty of twists, limited suspects but all with motive, and Sam trying to protect Camilla's reputation made for a smoothly paced story until the surprising and dramatic reveal.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
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