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Penny Brannigan #6
Slated for Death
When the body of well-liked and respectable Glenda Roberts is discovered at the bottom of a former slate mine, now a busy tourist attraction, pandemonium erupts in the North Wales town of Llanelen. Penny Brannigan finds herself drawn into the investigation when jars of her house-brand hand cream are found among counterfeit inventory Glenda and her sister were selling.
Police are convinced that the mine operator whose asthmatic son suffered an almost-fatal attack due to the merchandise is responsible for Glenda’s death. But Penny’s not so sure. A visit to Glenda’s mother only deepens her conviction that a hidden family secret is the real reason for the murder.
Slated for Death is a wonderful traditional mystery with snappy dialogue, lively characters and an enchanting setting.
Police are convinced that the mine operator whose asthmatic son suffered an almost-fatal attack due to the merchandise is responsible for Glenda’s death. But Penny’s not so sure. A visit to Glenda’s mother only deepens her conviction that a hidden family secret is the real reason for the murder.
Slated for Death is a wonderful traditional mystery with snappy dialogue, lively characters and an enchanting setting.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published April 14, 2015
About the author
Elizabeth J. Duncan
23 books398 followersAfter graduating from Carleton University, Ottawa, with a BA in English, Elizabeth J. Duncan worked as a writer and editor for some of Canada’s largest newspapers, and as a public relations practitioner.
A two-time winner of the Bloody Words Award for Canada's best light mystery, she is the author of two traditional mystery series, Penny Brannigan set in North Wales and Shakespeare in the Catskills featuring costume designer Charlotte Fairfax,
Elizabeth divides her time between Toronto, Canada and Llandudno, North Wales.
A two-time winner of the Bloody Words Award for Canada's best light mystery, she is the author of two traditional mystery series, Penny Brannigan set in North Wales and Shakespeare in the Catskills featuring costume designer Charlotte Fairfax,
Elizabeth divides her time between Toronto, Canada and Llandudno, North Wales.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
March 11, 2019
As I have visited Wales, I could relate to some of the locations in Elizabeth J. Duncan’s Slated for Death (Penny Brannigan Mystery #6). I have actually taken the train trip from Blaenau Ffestiniog and viewed the countryside in North Wales. At the time I did this, I was unaware of the history of slate mining in North Wales, but that was quite awhile ago. Even with my knowledge of the mining of slate in North Wales, I did not know that old slate mines are used for teaching and as tourist attractions. Amazing! What a truly dynamic way to understand what these miners did. I also would not be surprised if these mines are used as wedding and concert venues.
The author’s setting for this mystery is Llanelen where Penny and Victoria have their spa. Penny discovers a counterfeit jar of her spa’s hand cream has been sold from a stall on Market Day. Thus, Penny decides to ask a few questions, but a few days before, a body has been found in the local mine. Is there any connection? Then another death occurs. Penny is determined to uncover any relation between these two deaths. She certainly puts herself in a potentially fatal situation. The characters surprise the reader as the setting almost pushes all over the edge. I enjoyed reading this mystery, and it made me homesick (though I am American) for Wales! 4 stars.
The author’s setting for this mystery is Llanelen where Penny and Victoria have their spa. Penny discovers a counterfeit jar of her spa’s hand cream has been sold from a stall on Market Day. Thus, Penny decides to ask a few questions, but a few days before, a body has been found in the local mine. Is there any connection? Then another death occurs. Penny is determined to uncover any relation between these two deaths. She certainly puts herself in a potentially fatal situation. The characters surprise the reader as the setting almost pushes all over the edge. I enjoyed reading this mystery, and it made me homesick (though I am American) for Wales! 4 stars.
August 6, 2016
I did really like this, but the sad remnants of Penny's romantic life left me feeling rather flat at the ending. Penny's friend and business partner Victoria is involved in the St. David's Day concert, which is going to be held in a slate mine repurposed for the tourist trade. Unfortunately, the organizer is murdered, and Penny finds herself taking over. Then the organizer's mother dies in a nursing home that Penny is familiar with, as some of her friends exist there. There are a lot of threads, which don't all come together as well as one might wish. Striking Welsh background.
July 2, 2015
Slated for Death is the 6th book in the Penny Brannigan Mystery series. Penny is from Canada but has lived for many years in Llanelen Wales. She and her business partner Victoria own and operate a successful spa. A concert is going to be held down in the closed slate mine for St.Davids Day. The slate mines have been a main industry in Wales over past centuries but are now a tourist attraction.
The slate mine location is certainly unusual for a concert. The event planner is found dead down in the mine before the concert and it is determined it is murder. The concert must go on due to contracts and Penny takes over for the event planner. It was interesting reading about the slate mines and what a great location for the mystery portion of the book.
The book had a very cozy feel when Penny walked home during a severe storm The rain came down in sheets and was accompanied by a howling wind. When Penny arrived at her cottage, it felt very welcoming. She changed her wet clothes, put on kettle on, and felt the cottage which had withstood many storms would keep her safe. She has a Rayburn cooker that she could cook on and would supply heat when the power goes out. She invites Bethan Morgan to spend the night as Bethan was on call as a policewomen and couldn't get home. It was a very cozy part of the book.
I like the secondary characters and have become more attached to them with each book especially Mrs. Lloyd and Florence. They both are endearing. Mrs. Lloyd has grown on me over the series. At first, she was seen as a busy body but has developed into a interesting character. I would read her memoirs too.
What I like about the protagonist Penny is that she works with the police and passes on information. She is very logical and uses her common sense.
This book could be read as a stand alone as the author helps the reader know past information. I have read all of the books in the series and this was one of my favorite of the six books.
The slate mine location is certainly unusual for a concert. The event planner is found dead down in the mine before the concert and it is determined it is murder. The concert must go on due to contracts and Penny takes over for the event planner. It was interesting reading about the slate mines and what a great location for the mystery portion of the book.
The book had a very cozy feel when Penny walked home during a severe storm The rain came down in sheets and was accompanied by a howling wind. When Penny arrived at her cottage, it felt very welcoming. She changed her wet clothes, put on kettle on, and felt the cottage which had withstood many storms would keep her safe. She has a Rayburn cooker that she could cook on and would supply heat when the power goes out. She invites Bethan Morgan to spend the night as Bethan was on call as a policewomen and couldn't get home. It was a very cozy part of the book.
I like the secondary characters and have become more attached to them with each book especially Mrs. Lloyd and Florence. They both are endearing. Mrs. Lloyd has grown on me over the series. At first, she was seen as a busy body but has developed into a interesting character. I would read her memoirs too.
What I like about the protagonist Penny is that she works with the police and passes on information. She is very logical and uses her common sense.
This book could be read as a stand alone as the author helps the reader know past information. I have read all of the books in the series and this was one of my favorite of the six books.
May 6, 2015
Slated For Death A likeable series, and this installment had a great plot, lots of twists and turns and moved along very well. I had the who in whodunit figured out fairly early on, but that didn't dampen my enjoyment. A few more details were filled in about Penny's past, and I have to say the romance (or lack thereof) with Gareth distresses me a bit. I feel bad for Gareth, why do nice guys always get hung up on the wrong women? *sigh*
February 12, 2018
This is a nice little cozy series - enjoyable characters, the plot moves well, and they're always a nice quick read.
October 5, 2022
The best thing about this cozy is the setting - North Wales. The initial murder occurs in a slate mine, its resources depleted, that is now a tourist attraction. The series character, Penny Brannigan, is part owner of a local spa (actually a comprehensive beauty salon) and, through her, the reader is introduced to a variety of interesting characters. Not a classic, but I will definitely read more in the series.
August 13, 2015
I wasn't paying attention and picked this up at the library, not realizing it was #6 in the series.
March 14, 2023
This is another series that I started and enjoyed, but put on hold because the books were only available in mass market paperback. The print in those small books is too small for me now, so I was happy to find this book available in audio format. It’s been a couple of years since I read the previous book from the series, and I wasn’t sure I’d remember enough about what went on earlier in the series, but I needn’t have worried. There were just enough reminders concerning the setting, the character backgrounds and relationships to bring me up to speed.
I don’t read many books set in Wales, so this series is a treat, although I’m glad I listened to this rather than reading it – I would never have known how to pronounce the Welsh names and words by reading the printed word. I like the primary characters, the way they all look out for one another, and the way Penny (MC) passes on information to local law enforcement rather than trying to figure things out on her own. She did not knowingly put herself in a dangerous situation, which is another plus.
I had an idea that something wasn’t quite right with one character almost from the moment they were first introduced, which turned out to be correct. The motive wasn’t too hard to figure out either, although parts of the rationale behind it were startling. I look forward to my next trip to Wales when I read the next book in this series.
I don’t read many books set in Wales, so this series is a treat, although I’m glad I listened to this rather than reading it – I would never have known how to pronounce the Welsh names and words by reading the printed word. I like the primary characters, the way they all look out for one another, and the way Penny (MC) passes on information to local law enforcement rather than trying to figure things out on her own. She did not knowingly put herself in a dangerous situation, which is another plus.
I had an idea that something wasn’t quite right with one character almost from the moment they were first introduced, which turned out to be correct. The motive wasn’t too hard to figure out either, although parts of the rationale behind it were startling. I look forward to my next trip to Wales when I read the next book in this series.
April 25, 2022
This is my second book in the unabashedly cozy Penny Brannigan series. I liked the fist I read and I enjoyed this one too. There is a difference between cozies and silly cozies. Elizabeth Duncan seems to be a Canadian but she manages to do what so many American writers of UK cozies can’t do: she can write a story that captures local ambience without turning the books into horrible pastiches of the genuine article.
At the bottom of a former slate mine, now a busy tourist attraction, the dead body of a local woman (Glenda) organizing a St. David’s day concert is found murdered. Penny finds herself drawn into the investigation when jars of her house-brand hand cream are found among counterfeit inventory Glenda and her sister were selling at a local market.
Police are convinced that the mine operator is responsible for Glenda’s death but Penny thinks there is more going on. A visit to Glenda’s mother only deepens her conviction that a hidden family secret is the real reason for the murder. Incidentally, Penny has also stepped in to deal with the complications of staging the planned concert.
It all turns out well in the end, as is predictable in cozies but it's not soppy and silly; it's an enjoyable romp and a valued break from grittier crime and murder hoo-haa.
At the bottom of a former slate mine, now a busy tourist attraction, the dead body of a local woman (Glenda) organizing a St. David’s day concert is found murdered. Penny finds herself drawn into the investigation when jars of her house-brand hand cream are found among counterfeit inventory Glenda and her sister were selling at a local market.
Police are convinced that the mine operator is responsible for Glenda’s death but Penny thinks there is more going on. A visit to Glenda’s mother only deepens her conviction that a hidden family secret is the real reason for the murder. Incidentally, Penny has also stepped in to deal with the complications of staging the planned concert.
It all turns out well in the end, as is predictable in cozies but it's not soppy and silly; it's an enjoyable romp and a valued break from grittier crime and murder hoo-haa.
March 31, 2022
I enjoyed the story immensely, I listened to the audiobook as I followed in my library book. When the body of Glenda Roberts is discovered deep in a former slate mine but now a local tourist attraction, people are mystified. Glenda was a well liked resident and had been organizing a concert that would take place in the mine. Furthermore, Penny’s business partner was scheduled to perform at the concert. Days later, Glenda’s mother Doreen, didn’t appear at her birthday celebration, but Penny finds her dead in her room at the nursing home, with a piece of slate in her hand. Are the two deaths linked? Before Doreen Roberts was found, she had become spooked, as if she had seen a ghost earlier by someone she had recognized but wasn’t expecting to see. What had frightened her and was it related to her death and that of her daughter Glenda?
September 2, 2020
Number 6 in the Penny Brannigan mystery series was a good cosy mystery read.
I have never been to Wales so I really enjoy all of the descriptions of the countryside and the people that live there. This book had a lot of information about the slate mining industry which was a big part of the history of Wales. Found it very interesting and the description of the mines themselves was fascinating.
I felt sad about the romantic relationship that Penny might have had with Davies but she didn't want. The ending of that was a big disappointment. Although I was so happy to see that she was going to try to create a better life for all of the residents in the local senior's home.
It has been a while since I have read one of Elizabeth Duncan's novels and I enjoyed this one a lot!
I have never been to Wales so I really enjoy all of the descriptions of the countryside and the people that live there. This book had a lot of information about the slate mining industry which was a big part of the history of Wales. Found it very interesting and the description of the mines themselves was fascinating.
I felt sad about the romantic relationship that Penny might have had with Davies but she didn't want. The ending of that was a big disappointment. Although I was so happy to see that she was going to try to create a better life for all of the residents in the local senior's home.
It has been a while since I have read one of Elizabeth Duncan's novels and I enjoyed this one a lot!
March 12, 2017
Very pedestrian mystery. Best part: set in Northern Wales, but still not as much atmosphere as I would have liked. Worst part: relationships between series characters seemed stilted and awkward, not well-realized. Plot: mediocre. Murderer: figured it out about 3/4's of the way through, but also went for the red herring at first. Climax: too tame, no suspense or concern for heroine's life! The only real worry in the whole book was what would happen to one of the suspect's dogs!
The whole "concert-down-a-slate-mine" concept seemed very unlikely and the catering that went off without a hitch seemed unreal! All-in-all, a relaxing read between more substantial books, but not a series to pursue.
The whole "concert-down-a-slate-mine" concept seemed very unlikely and the catering that went off without a hitch seemed unreal! All-in-all, a relaxing read between more substantial books, but not a series to pursue.
July 11, 2018
This is the 6th book in the series. Glenda has been organizing a special concert, set to take place in the local slate mine. When she is found dead in the mine, Penny is pulled in to help with the implementation of the concert, and cannot help but get involved in the mystery behind Glenda’s death. She is also dealing with a counterfeit hand cream of their spa brand that has caused a reaction and is being sold in the local traders market. As she begins to dig into the mystery, it seems that long held secrets from the mine may hold the key to the murder. Penny must sort out the clues before the killer decides to take care of those who know the secret of the mine.
September 18, 2023
Cozy but thought-provoking mystery set in Wales. Glenda Roberts was discovered murdered in a disused slate mine. The mine is now a tourist attraction and Glenda was managing a concert that was to take place there; a concert where Victoria was playing her harp. Victoria asks Penny to take over the management, and the two become embroiled in mystery, especially after the death of Glenda's mother. What is the connection between the two deaths? Penny can't help but wonder if it is connected with earlier deaths in the mine, back when it was still in use. Fascinating story full of interesting characters that is hard to put down.
July 14, 2018
Penny Brannigan's partner Victoria is going to play her harp in a concert scheduled at the bottom of a former slate mine. A group of people involved go down the mine but on the count one is missing and her body is found. The body is that of Glenda Roberts the organizer of the concert. Penny's ex boyfriend DCI Davies is called in on the investigation. Penny agrees to take over the organizing of the concert but finds the mine a spooky place. As the story unfolds Glenda's mother dies suddenly. Twists and turns in this plot.
February 14, 2019
Cozy mystery set in Wales. This is the first I read by this author, and I enjoyed it enough but am not sure it was good enough to make me want to read the rest. My favorite parts were the Welsh setting and bits of the culture that were included, which is why I picked up the book in the first place. The mystery was intriguing but I was left unsatisfied by the resolution. I feel like that could have been wrapped up much better. The romance part made me sad and I wondered if that was a long arc that I would have understood better if I'd read the rest of the books in the series.
May 26, 2017
With this book, we are back visiting quirky, likeable, and relatable characters in Wales while enjoying the change of the seasons, beautiful countryside, and warm relationships as if being there since the author does a wonderful job of describing every detail. The relationships keep developing and becoming more caring and comfortable, while the murder mysteries become more complex and intriguing with each book. Four and a half stars.
December 22, 2019
When the organizer of a local concert is murdered, Penny is recruited to take over the arrangements. The site is a defunct slate mine, which poses more than the usual challenge, but Victoria, Florence, Mrs. Lloyd and other townspeople pitch in. Penny also devotes time to contemplating the murder, and a second death has her wondering whether the sins of a mother, as well as a father, has a long reach.
February 3, 2026
These books are true cosies. You know it’s all going to come right in the end and there will be minor alarums and excursions through the plot but nothing truly horrific is going to happen. It’s a bit like visiting a place and watching the inhabitants going about their usual days but with a bit of murderous excitement to ginger things up a little. Basically, you know what you’re going to get. That’s not a bad thing by any means but you definitely know what you’re going to get.
February 26, 2026
Slated for Death - another great read from Canadian author Elizabeth J Duncan. I have read many books in this series. You can tell that the author spends time researching and has also created some super characters that are great to get to know. Slated for death is still centred around the usual community of Llanelen and also connects to a tourist attraction and former slate mine. With great back stories, this is another hit in the cozy crime genre.
January 31, 2021
Secrets from the past .
Secrets from the past have a habit of turning to murder. Glenda is the first victim killed in a slate mine found with a piece of slate in her.hand. Followed by the death of her mother in a nursing home. Penny Branigan is asked to take over the organization of the concert in the slate mine. There is a death in the past as well.
Secrets from the past have a habit of turning to murder. Glenda is the first victim killed in a slate mine found with a piece of slate in her.hand. Followed by the death of her mother in a nursing home. Penny Branigan is asked to take over the organization of the concert in the slate mine. There is a death in the past as well.
May 11, 2017
I am liking this series better. The setting of a Welsh slate mine is intriguing and I enjoyed the history and landscape. The non-romance between main sleuth Penny and head policeman is lackluster, but both characters are likable if not a bit bland. Still a Good Read!
April 9, 2018
I really enjoyed this. This is the third one in the series that I've read. I hope to read them all and will try to get caught up on the series eventually.
I liked the Welsh setting and the characters such as Penny. A good cozy, traditional mystery.
I liked the Welsh setting and the characters such as Penny. A good cozy, traditional mystery.
April 19, 2018
Fun and light murder mystery that takes you through a specific mining operation scenario, where the town's history and historic mining methods are spread throughout the story. Enjoyable read but confined to mining .... slate!
May 22, 2018
Interesting plot and a bit of an education about slate mining in Wales - which I enjoyed. I have to smile that Penny takes so much time from her business, but she has lots of backup. I'm coming close to finishing the books in the series - those out so far - and I'll be eager for the 10th book!
July 23, 2020
Wonderful as usual. I use to never read a British book by an American author and vice versa. They never sounded right. But this author has a most authentic British voice. Maybe a past life? Fantastic books.
July 6, 2017
I enjoyed this book - kept me entertained and wasn't too heavy with lots of names to remember, etc.
Most enjoyable - looking forward to reading more of Elizabeth J. Duncan's books.
Most enjoyable - looking forward to reading more of Elizabeth J. Duncan's books.
July 16, 2017
I read the first book in the series and this one was just as good.
August 7, 2017
And now I know the inspiration for the hiding place for a Horcrux - the Welsh mines.
September 24, 2018
Book #6 gives you some interesting information on slate mining in Wales with our main character again being a "nosey parker".
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