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Julia Bird Mysteries #8
Murder in the Winter Woods
Julia Bird adores a walk on a winter’s day. The crunch of fresh show under your feet and the promise of hot cocoa by a roaring fire afterwards… But she’s not expecting to find a body in the woods!
It’s Christmas in Berrywick, the busiest time of year for dashing taxi driver Lewis. But when he’s killed in a road accident, the entire village is shaken. Julia Bird, recently appointed to the Road Safety Committee, visits the site so that no other villager suffers the same fate. But when she spies a pendant left in the bushes, she feels certain Lewis’s death was no accident…
As the festive lights twinkle in the village square, Julia vows to uncover the truth. She soon learns not everyone found Lewis’s charm appealing. Sweetshop owner Dora says he had an eye for the ladies, much to his wife’s frustration. Lewis recently gave his life savings to a mysterious businessman who proves difficult to track down. But could these be reasons enough to want him dead?
Then, local beekeeper Matthew is struck by a car near the Christmas market. Julia believes the two deaths must be linked, but contrary to Lewis, Matthew was as sweet as the honey he sold. Who could possibly want to hurt Berrywick’s kindest man?
With no obvious leads, Julia stumbles upon an old picture that finally links Lewis and Matthew. Many years ago they were in a band poised for stardom, but when the bubble burst, their chance at fame vanished quicker than a glass of festive eggnog. Could someone be targeting the band members one by one? And can Julia track them down before the killer strikes again?
An utterly gripping and totally charming cozy mystery set in the English countryside. Fans of M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin and Betty Rowlands will love the Julia Bird Mysteries!
It’s Christmas in Berrywick, the busiest time of year for dashing taxi driver Lewis. But when he’s killed in a road accident, the entire village is shaken. Julia Bird, recently appointed to the Road Safety Committee, visits the site so that no other villager suffers the same fate. But when she spies a pendant left in the bushes, she feels certain Lewis’s death was no accident…
As the festive lights twinkle in the village square, Julia vows to uncover the truth. She soon learns not everyone found Lewis’s charm appealing. Sweetshop owner Dora says he had an eye for the ladies, much to his wife’s frustration. Lewis recently gave his life savings to a mysterious businessman who proves difficult to track down. But could these be reasons enough to want him dead?
Then, local beekeeper Matthew is struck by a car near the Christmas market. Julia believes the two deaths must be linked, but contrary to Lewis, Matthew was as sweet as the honey he sold. Who could possibly want to hurt Berrywick’s kindest man?
With no obvious leads, Julia stumbles upon an old picture that finally links Lewis and Matthew. Many years ago they were in a band poised for stardom, but when the bubble burst, their chance at fame vanished quicker than a glass of festive eggnog. Could someone be targeting the band members one by one? And can Julia track them down before the killer strikes again?
An utterly gripping and totally charming cozy mystery set in the English countryside. Fans of M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin and Betty Rowlands will love the Julia Bird Mysteries!
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 25, 2025
667 people are currently reading
142 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
September 25, 2025
4 Stars
One Liner: Early Christmas Mystery
It’s Christmas in Berrywick, and the village is decked up for the festival. When Julia and Sean find the body of a well-known taxi driver, Lewis Band, they think it’s a case of hit-and-run. This leads to a Road Safety Committee to spread awareness. However, Julia finds a pendant in the bushes, making her wonder if Lewis’s death was an accident or murder.
When there’s another incident, another local struck by a car, Julia knows it cannot be a coincidence. Was there a connection between the two, or is someone bumping off people at random and making them look like accidents?
It’s up to Julia to find the truth!
The story comes in Julia’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the eighth book in the series and might work as a standalone since the personal track is steady and the focus is on the mystery. Of course, we still see more developments and happy times with loved ones. These are always welcome.
Jake, our chocolate Lab, makes a slightly late entry since he was left at home, as the humans enjoyed the Winter market. Unfair, right? Poor Jake! He lost the opportunity to run around and whack a few displays with his tail.
Given the festive vibe, the mystery feels a bit mellow. It works since the setting (Nov) has the same languid feel. Still, the book discusses important topics. The focal point is road safety, a very important aspect across the world.
The chickens are healthy, though they’ve slowed down due to the cold. Chaplin the cat is in his element and even occasionally displays his affection by bringing gifts. You can guess what kind!
The mystery starts simply. Then, new layers are added to it. Some are red herrings, but some are solid leads. Can you figure out which ones to follow? I guessed it right, and we actually got the answer at one point. Series readers will know it when they see it. ;)
The pacing felt a bit slower than usual, but no complaints. It suits the mood.
To summarize, Murder in the Winter Woods is a solid continuation of the series and a great read if you want a compact little cozy mystery set in winter.
Thank you, Sarah Hardy, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderintheWinterWoods
One Liner: Early Christmas Mystery
It’s Christmas in Berrywick, and the village is decked up for the festival. When Julia and Sean find the body of a well-known taxi driver, Lewis Band, they think it’s a case of hit-and-run. This leads to a Road Safety Committee to spread awareness. However, Julia finds a pendant in the bushes, making her wonder if Lewis’s death was an accident or murder.
When there’s another incident, another local struck by a car, Julia knows it cannot be a coincidence. Was there a connection between the two, or is someone bumping off people at random and making them look like accidents?
It’s up to Julia to find the truth!
The story comes in Julia’s third-person POV.
My Thoughts:
This is the eighth book in the series and might work as a standalone since the personal track is steady and the focus is on the mystery. Of course, we still see more developments and happy times with loved ones. These are always welcome.
Jake, our chocolate Lab, makes a slightly late entry since he was left at home, as the humans enjoyed the Winter market. Unfair, right? Poor Jake! He lost the opportunity to run around and whack a few displays with his tail.
Given the festive vibe, the mystery feels a bit mellow. It works since the setting (Nov) has the same languid feel. Still, the book discusses important topics. The focal point is road safety, a very important aspect across the world.
The chickens are healthy, though they’ve slowed down due to the cold. Chaplin the cat is in his element and even occasionally displays his affection by bringing gifts. You can guess what kind!
The mystery starts simply. Then, new layers are added to it. Some are red herrings, but some are solid leads. Can you figure out which ones to follow? I guessed it right, and we actually got the answer at one point. Series readers will know it when they see it. ;)
The pacing felt a bit slower than usual, but no complaints. It suits the mood.
To summarize, Murder in the Winter Woods is a solid continuation of the series and a great read if you want a compact little cozy mystery set in winter.
Thank you, Sarah Hardy, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #MurderintheWinterWoods
September 24, 2025
The eighth book in this excellent series is set at Christmas time in the village of Berrywick. It opens with Julia and Sean walking home from the Christmas markets and discovering the dead body of the local taxi driver in the snow. He has been run over twice. Murder is in the air and Julia dons her sleuthing hat again.
I enjoyed it all very much. Julia and Sean have a great relationship and Jake the crazy Labrador provides the entertainment. Love the fact that he has a chicken as a best friend. The atmosphere of an English village at Christmas was well done - this would be a very good book to read in December.
In the end there was more than one murder and lots of twists and turns and red herrings. I was stunned by the eventual identity of the murderer. All very cleverly done indeed.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I enjoyed it all very much. Julia and Sean have a great relationship and Jake the crazy Labrador provides the entertainment. Love the fact that he has a chicken as a best friend. The atmosphere of an English village at Christmas was well done - this would be a very good book to read in December.
In the end there was more than one murder and lots of twists and turns and red herrings. I was stunned by the eventual identity of the murderer. All very cleverly done indeed.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
October 24, 2025
I always love going back to the village of Berrywick. Julia and her Labrador Jake feel like old friends. Christmas is the perfect time for a visit. But when Julia finds a body in the woods, a mystery is most definitely afoot. This fun cozy mystery is entertaining, suspenseful, and kept me engaged in this intriguing whodunit. I enjoyed discovering clues, despite numerous red herrings. Julia is determined to uncover who is behind the increasing number of deaths in this charming, quiet village. This Christmas cozy was gripping from start to finish. Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for my copy.
September 11, 2025
When Sean and Julia Bird were heading home after a evening out, they took the back road for a change. But Julia spotted something on the side of the road in among the trees and on investigating, they discovered Lewis, the town of Berrywick's taxi driver, dead. The local detectives were immediately on the scene with forensics as well. But they missed a vital piece of evidence - something Julia found a few days later. In the meantime, the Christmas markets were on as it was only five weeks until Christmas. Julia and Sean went along, meeting up with Matthew, Julia's next door neighbour, who was a beekeeper. He was carrying a box containing jars of honey back to his car, and didn't have time to chat. It was the following day that Julia's detective friend, Hayley, told her Matthew had been struck by a car in that carpark, and killed.
What was the connection between the two men who had died? Julia - and Hayley - were sure there was one. Julia began her investigations, with her chocolate lab, Jake, at her side. And gradually she discovered long held secrets. Would it be enough to unearth the killer? When another died, Hayley was frantic. They must find the killer before anyone else died.
Murder in the Winter Woods is #8 in the Julia Bird Mysteries by Katie Gayle and I enjoyed it very much. Julia is an excellent character; a sixty something woman determined to help others; loving her second chance at life and love with Sean; and of course, dear Jake. And there's Edna, always there in some way or another, with her words of wisdom; quite often words of confusion. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
What was the connection between the two men who had died? Julia - and Hayley - were sure there was one. Julia began her investigations, with her chocolate lab, Jake, at her side. And gradually she discovered long held secrets. Would it be enough to unearth the killer? When another died, Hayley was frantic. They must find the killer before anyone else died.
Murder in the Winter Woods is #8 in the Julia Bird Mysteries by Katie Gayle and I enjoyed it very much. Julia is an excellent character; a sixty something woman determined to help others; loving her second chance at life and love with Sean; and of course, dear Jake. And there's Edna, always there in some way or another, with her words of wisdom; quite often words of confusion. Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
September 14, 2025
Well written as usual but somehow I didn't feel the same urgency as I felt in the previous books of the series. Despite that, I liked how the author touched on serious topics.
June 6, 2025
Christmas in the Cotswolds is postcard perfect with markets, carols, and festive fare for Julia Bird to enjoy. Unfortunately, Berrywick is experiencing a bit of a crime wave, and, once again, she has found herself right in the middle of it! With one of her close neighbours suffering a tragic loss Julia knows she has to look into what happened herself but clues are scarce and her fellow villagers are scared to the point there is even a demonstration in the high street! Can she find out what happened before anyone else dies and the Christmas spirit in Berrywick disappears for good?
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I do love a Christmas cosy, and this didn't disappoint even though I read it in June! Julia and Sean's relationship is explored in greater detail here, which I loved, and Jake once again stole the show. More please.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. I do love a Christmas cosy, and this didn't disappoint even though I read it in June! Julia and Sean's relationship is explored in greater detail here, which I loved, and Jake once again stole the show. More please.
September 21, 2025
Christmas is approaching in Berrywick, Julia & Sean are driving home after being to a Christmas Fayre when they spot taxi driver Lewis lying at the side of the road, dead. The entire village is shaken, Julia recently appointed to the Road Safety Committee, visits the site so that no other villager suffers the same fate & spies a pendant left in the bushes. As the festive lights twinkle in the village square, Julia vows to uncover the truth. Then, local beekeeper Matthew & Julia’s neighbour is struck by a car near the Christmas market. Julia believes the two deaths must be linked. With no obvious leads, Julia stumbles upon an old picture that finally links Lewis and Matthew. Many years ago they were in a band poised for stardom, but when the bubble burst, their chance at fame vanished.
The eighth outing for Julia & another well written cosy mystery. I love Julia who’s in her sixties & moved to Berrywick after her divorce but she’s settled into village life with her delightful Labrador Jake, she’s also found love with Dr Sean. I also like her relationship with D I Hayley Gibson, Hayley seems to be mellowing, maybe her new love is helping? There’s a good mix of mystery & village life. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings before the villain is revealed. There’s also some humour, Julia’s gadget for cleaning Jake’s paws was hilarious. An engrossing cosy murder mystery which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The eighth outing for Julia & another well written cosy mystery. I love Julia who’s in her sixties & moved to Berrywick after her divorce but she’s settled into village life with her delightful Labrador Jake, she’s also found love with Dr Sean. I also like her relationship with D I Hayley Gibson, Hayley seems to be mellowing, maybe her new love is helping? There’s a good mix of mystery & village life. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings before the villain is revealed. There’s also some humour, Julia’s gadget for cleaning Jake’s paws was hilarious. An engrossing cosy murder mystery which I loved
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
September 4, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read this festive installment of one of my favorite cozy mystery series.
I’ve been following Julia Bird from the very beginning, and the series just keeps getting better with every book. Julia is such a strong, relatable protagonist—witty, compassionate, and endlessly curious. In Murder in the Winter Woods, the eighth book in the series, Julia and Sean stumble upon the body of Berrywick’s beloved taxi driver, only for another villager to be killed in a similar hit-and-run days later. At first glance, both look like accidents, but Julia’s sharp eye for detail—and her natural ability to get people talking—quickly suggest something far more sinister is at play.
The festive Cotswolds setting is absolutely charming, full of Christmas markets, fairy lights, and seasonal cheer, which makes the murders stand out all the more starkly. Katie Gayle does a brilliant job weaving holiday warmth with genuine tension, offering plenty of twists, red herrings, and surprises along the way. I didn’t see the ending coming at all.
As always, the community of Berrywick shines. From Julia’s colleagues at the charity shop to her loyal Labrador Jake and even her quirky chickens, every character adds heart and humor. The addition of a whimsical road safety protest made me laugh out loud—a reminder of how these mysteries balance dark crime with lighthearted moments.
This is a cozy series I return to again and again for its engaging plots, charming village atmosphere, and the wonderful Julia herself. A must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin, or anyone looking for a heartwarming yet twisty Christmas mystery.
Highly recommended!
I’ve been following Julia Bird from the very beginning, and the series just keeps getting better with every book. Julia is such a strong, relatable protagonist—witty, compassionate, and endlessly curious. In Murder in the Winter Woods, the eighth book in the series, Julia and Sean stumble upon the body of Berrywick’s beloved taxi driver, only for another villager to be killed in a similar hit-and-run days later. At first glance, both look like accidents, but Julia’s sharp eye for detail—and her natural ability to get people talking—quickly suggest something far more sinister is at play.
The festive Cotswolds setting is absolutely charming, full of Christmas markets, fairy lights, and seasonal cheer, which makes the murders stand out all the more starkly. Katie Gayle does a brilliant job weaving holiday warmth with genuine tension, offering plenty of twists, red herrings, and surprises along the way. I didn’t see the ending coming at all.
As always, the community of Berrywick shines. From Julia’s colleagues at the charity shop to her loyal Labrador Jake and even her quirky chickens, every character adds heart and humor. The addition of a whimsical road safety protest made me laugh out loud—a reminder of how these mysteries balance dark crime with lighthearted moments.
This is a cozy series I return to again and again for its engaging plots, charming village atmosphere, and the wonderful Julia herself. A must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Faith Martin, or anyone looking for a heartwarming yet twisty Christmas mystery.
Highly recommended!
August 8, 2025
I should have expected it from the title but it did come as a bit of surprise to find myself reading my first Christmas book of 2025 in August. Christmas Markets, Lights being switched on and festive jumpers all feature in this excellent 8th adventure for Julia Bird.
It might have a Christmassy setting but the murder mystery is anything but festive as first the local taxi driver and then Julia’s neighbour are both killed in hit and run accidents. As frequently happens, Julia manages to discover both bodies and it’s not long before her natural curiosity and ability to talk to people lead her to making connections between the two deaths.
This was another hugely enjoyable read in one of my favourite cosy crime series. The inhabitants of Berrywick are as engaging as ever even if an alarmingly high proportion of them end up being murdered. The Buttered Scone Cafe is the location for several of Julia’s encounters and the description of the food never fails to make me feel hungry,
What I love about this series is that Julia’s involvement never feels contrived. Yes, there are a couple of unlikely coincidences but mainly she finds out details by asking the right questions and because people are generally happy to confide in her.
Jake the labrador makes his usual star turn and provides light relief as well as the reason that Julia is out in the woods on a Winter’s evening in the first place. I loved the scene where Julia succumbed to an advert for a ‘paw washer’ and the subsequent chaos that ensued.
This was a fun wintry mystery complete with delicious hot chocolate and I am very grateful to Net Galley and the publishers Bookouture for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
It might have a Christmassy setting but the murder mystery is anything but festive as first the local taxi driver and then Julia’s neighbour are both killed in hit and run accidents. As frequently happens, Julia manages to discover both bodies and it’s not long before her natural curiosity and ability to talk to people lead her to making connections between the two deaths.
This was another hugely enjoyable read in one of my favourite cosy crime series. The inhabitants of Berrywick are as engaging as ever even if an alarmingly high proportion of them end up being murdered. The Buttered Scone Cafe is the location for several of Julia’s encounters and the description of the food never fails to make me feel hungry,
What I love about this series is that Julia’s involvement never feels contrived. Yes, there are a couple of unlikely coincidences but mainly she finds out details by asking the right questions and because people are generally happy to confide in her.
Jake the labrador makes his usual star turn and provides light relief as well as the reason that Julia is out in the woods on a Winter’s evening in the first place. I loved the scene where Julia succumbed to an advert for a ‘paw washer’ and the subsequent chaos that ensued.
This was a fun wintry mystery complete with delicious hot chocolate and I am very grateful to Net Galley and the publishers Bookouture for allowing me to read this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 24, 2025
If you are looking for a cozy mystery that feels warm and inviting, especially as the seasons are changing and the holidays are approaching, then you’ll thoroughly enjoy reading this eighth book in Katie Gayle‘s delightful series.
For Julia Bird and her neighbors in the charming village of Berrywick, they are preparing for a warm and festive Christmas celebration. However, things all but come to a screeching halt when of the villagers, Lewis, was found dead in what appeared to be a car accident.
Certainly, if there was anything that could ruin the festive holiday atmosphere, it would be Lewis’s death. As a new Road Service Committee was being formed, with Julia having an active role, she couldn’t shake the feeling that Lewis’s death was not an accident. As a rather effective amateur detective, Julia’s inquisitive nature wouldn’t rest.
Julia recognizes almost immediately that this was no accident, and that someone intended to kill Lewis. But why? Who could’ve possibly had any issues with him? While Julia certainly intends on doing her part to make the roads safer, if there is a killer about, she intends on stopping them.
Each book in this Julia Bird Mysteries series has been a delightful read, and the series continues to grow with fresh and engaging stories. As a woman “of a certain age”, I find it particularly enjoyable to have a protagonist around my age who is still embracing life, including her loving relationship with her boyfriend Sean. As always, the next book in the series is eagerly anticipated.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
For Julia Bird and her neighbors in the charming village of Berrywick, they are preparing for a warm and festive Christmas celebration. However, things all but come to a screeching halt when of the villagers, Lewis, was found dead in what appeared to be a car accident.
Certainly, if there was anything that could ruin the festive holiday atmosphere, it would be Lewis’s death. As a new Road Service Committee was being formed, with Julia having an active role, she couldn’t shake the feeling that Lewis’s death was not an accident. As a rather effective amateur detective, Julia’s inquisitive nature wouldn’t rest.
Julia recognizes almost immediately that this was no accident, and that someone intended to kill Lewis. But why? Who could’ve possibly had any issues with him? While Julia certainly intends on doing her part to make the roads safer, if there is a killer about, she intends on stopping them.
Each book in this Julia Bird Mysteries series has been a delightful read, and the series continues to grow with fresh and engaging stories. As a woman “of a certain age”, I find it particularly enjoyable to have a protagonist around my age who is still embracing life, including her loving relationship with her boyfriend Sean. As always, the next book in the series is eagerly anticipated.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
December 9, 2025
Murder in the Winter Woods is the 8th book in the Julia Bird Mystery series and I thought it was one of the best ones yet. Julia and Sean are on the way home from a Christmas Event in the village when she sees something at the side of the road. It turns out it was the local taxi driver, Lewis, and he was dead. The police come out and it is ruled a homicide, as he was hit, then run over. About a week later, Julia and Sean visit the Christmas market on their way home from dinner and a show, and when they leave they see someone at the side of the parking lot. It's Julia's neighbour, Matthew, a local beekeeper, and again he has been run over and is dead. What do these two men have in common? Who is on a killing spree?
I really enjoy this series and this was a great addition. Julia is a retired social worker, and for some reason, people open up to her and share information that they haven't shared with the police. Julia doesn't outright sleuth, but she does take the opportunity to talk to people. She always, and immediately shares whatever she knows with DI Hayley Gibson. When someone else dies from poison, the case gets even more convoluted. Until they find the connection between the victims they are at a loss. Was it because of the investment scheme they were involved in? Was it because the band they were in 40 years earlier broke up? This one kept me guessing and when the reveal comes, it was not anyone I had expected. I also enjoy the personal lives of the characters and have enjoyed reading about their relationships and budding romance. I definitely recommend this book and series.
I really enjoy this series and this was a great addition. Julia is a retired social worker, and for some reason, people open up to her and share information that they haven't shared with the police. Julia doesn't outright sleuth, but she does take the opportunity to talk to people. She always, and immediately shares whatever she knows with DI Hayley Gibson. When someone else dies from poison, the case gets even more convoluted. Until they find the connection between the victims they are at a loss. Was it because of the investment scheme they were involved in? Was it because the band they were in 40 years earlier broke up? This one kept me guessing and when the reveal comes, it was not anyone I had expected. I also enjoy the personal lives of the characters and have enjoyed reading about their relationships and budding romance. I definitely recommend this book and series.
September 6, 2025
Julia Bird is back at it again. It is amazing honestly, how many bodies one person can find.
The setting was perfect for these darkening nights, the chill and the brilliance of Christmas. I loved the markets, the lights, the trees. It really brought the excitement of the season into the book as well as giving it a really sharp, wonderful contrast when the bodies start racking up. And boy do they rack up.
Lots of interesting characters, red herrings, and murders will keep you turning the page to see what happens next. There is an easy flow, an engaging feel to the writers style that will make you want to read just another chapter. And then another, and another, before the story is over before you even know it. I also liked the supporting characters who weren't suspects, and seeing the relationship they have with Julia was fun - although calling your ex's partner their 'current' husband is a little... eeh.
The end was actually rather chilling, and fit the cold setting perfectly. I didn't see it coming until a couple of pages before the characters figured it out, although there weren't really that many clues.
All in all a very enjoyable cosy murder mystery, perfect to curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a blanket.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
The setting was perfect for these darkening nights, the chill and the brilliance of Christmas. I loved the markets, the lights, the trees. It really brought the excitement of the season into the book as well as giving it a really sharp, wonderful contrast when the bodies start racking up. And boy do they rack up.
Lots of interesting characters, red herrings, and murders will keep you turning the page to see what happens next. There is an easy flow, an engaging feel to the writers style that will make you want to read just another chapter. And then another, and another, before the story is over before you even know it. I also liked the supporting characters who weren't suspects, and seeing the relationship they have with Julia was fun - although calling your ex's partner their 'current' husband is a little... eeh.
The end was actually rather chilling, and fit the cold setting perfectly. I didn't see it coming until a couple of pages before the characters figured it out, although there weren't really that many clues.
All in all a very enjoyable cosy murder mystery, perfect to curl up with a cup of hot chocolate and a blanket.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
September 11, 2025
Katie Gayle’s latest Julia Bird mystery, Murder in the Winter Woods, is set just before Christmas in Julia’s fictional home in the Cotswolds. It has the usual ingredients: Julia and her friend, Dr Sean, find a dead body. It’s Lewis, the friendly local taxi-driver. It looks like he was run over and whoever did it reversed the car and ran over him again. A second murder follows a few days later – another well-liked local man who wouldn’t hurt anyone.
This is a traditional “cosy” mystery. A safe environment is threatened by a murderer; an amateur detective investigates; the murderer is identified; the status quo ante is restored. Of course, the victims cannot be resurrected and there are grieving families, but the narrative dwells upon the positive. We are all comforted because the disruption is removed and order is restored.
I do enjoy Katie Gayle novels. They are undemanding, with a gentle humour. In this case, I didn’t identify the murderer, but I don’t read the books for a challenge. I read them because the authors (actually Kate and Gail) are highly skilled at populating their books with characters who behave and talk exactly as you’d expect. (And they aren’t just good at middle-aged people. Read their riotous Epiphany Bloom books for their wicked depiction of a 20-something young woman.)
#murdermystery #MurderInTheWinterWoods #NetGalley
This is a traditional “cosy” mystery. A safe environment is threatened by a murderer; an amateur detective investigates; the murderer is identified; the status quo ante is restored. Of course, the victims cannot be resurrected and there are grieving families, but the narrative dwells upon the positive. We are all comforted because the disruption is removed and order is restored.
I do enjoy Katie Gayle novels. They are undemanding, with a gentle humour. In this case, I didn’t identify the murderer, but I don’t read the books for a challenge. I read them because the authors (actually Kate and Gail) are highly skilled at populating their books with characters who behave and talk exactly as you’d expect. (And they aren’t just good at middle-aged people. Read their riotous Epiphany Bloom books for their wicked depiction of a 20-something young woman.)
#murdermystery #MurderInTheWinterWoods #NetGalley
October 7, 2025
Favorite Quotes:
Her appearance matched her personality to a pleasing degree. She had a creamy complexion, and her face had a soft plumpness, as if she were made of clouds and sugar and cherubs.
Although, now that she thought about it, it was odd that it was thought unseemly to speak ill of the dead, who were beyond caring what was said about them, but quite acceptable to talk badly about people who were actually living and breathing and capable of being hurt.
… compared to the tragic ends of Lewis and Matthew. I hope I go that way, she thought. A nice quick heart attack or stroke in my own bed. The thought wasn’t morbid or frightening. In fact, it was rather soothing. Julia had seen enough of life to be pragmatic about death.
My Review:
I always enjoy my time with Julia Bird; she is a clever and snoopy retiree who has a sharp eye for detail, even if her memory is becoming a bit cagey. As always with these clever scribes, their writing was engaging, easy to fall into, well-paced, and wryly amusing. Katie Gayle's entertaining tales tickle my curiosity and scroll smoothly through my gray matter. While I would never have guessed the outcome, the colorful Aunt Edna knew all along. Aunt Edna tends to hold the vital clues; if you know how to listen, she parcels her tips out in a seemingly nonsensical yet profound Edna code.
Her appearance matched her personality to a pleasing degree. She had a creamy complexion, and her face had a soft plumpness, as if she were made of clouds and sugar and cherubs.
Although, now that she thought about it, it was odd that it was thought unseemly to speak ill of the dead, who were beyond caring what was said about them, but quite acceptable to talk badly about people who were actually living and breathing and capable of being hurt.
… compared to the tragic ends of Lewis and Matthew. I hope I go that way, she thought. A nice quick heart attack or stroke in my own bed. The thought wasn’t morbid or frightening. In fact, it was rather soothing. Julia had seen enough of life to be pragmatic about death.
My Review:
I always enjoy my time with Julia Bird; she is a clever and snoopy retiree who has a sharp eye for detail, even if her memory is becoming a bit cagey. As always with these clever scribes, their writing was engaging, easy to fall into, well-paced, and wryly amusing. Katie Gayle's entertaining tales tickle my curiosity and scroll smoothly through my gray matter. While I would never have guessed the outcome, the colorful Aunt Edna knew all along. Aunt Edna tends to hold the vital clues; if you know how to listen, she parcels her tips out in a seemingly nonsensical yet profound Edna code.
October 18, 2025
3 1/2 stars. An enjoyable Christmas holiday mystery that features great decorations but not a festive murder. Julia Bird is at it again sleuthing when she finds the body of local taxi man run over. But she doesn't think this was an accident when she finds a locket nearby. Then another man, completely different in temperament is also killed. There seems to be no connection but Julia isn't so sure. It will take a lot of quick thinking and help from villagers to dig up the past to find a motive and stop a killer before they strike again.
I really enjoy Julia and the town she lives in. Julia is down to earth, making the best at a second life after retirement and a divorce, and smart. She has a lively dog who provides entertainment and love. I like her relationships with her family. But perhaps most satisfying is the relationship she is in. It seems very realistic. Both parties have baggage and scars and they run into some bumps in the road here but facing old fears and communication are key to the future.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I really enjoy Julia and the town she lives in. Julia is down to earth, making the best at a second life after retirement and a divorce, and smart. She has a lively dog who provides entertainment and love. I like her relationships with her family. But perhaps most satisfying is the relationship she is in. It seems very realistic. Both parties have baggage and scars and they run into some bumps in the road here but facing old fears and communication are key to the future.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
October 27, 2025
I really enjoy this series, a cosy mystery series set in Berrywick, in the Cotswolds. Julia retired here after a divorce late in life; she's found happiness with local GP Sean and has formed a small circle of good friends. Add in her small menagerie of Jake the dog, Chaplin the cat and the brood of chickens led by Henny Penny, and she is living a great life.
In her previous life she was a social worker, this helps her ask the questions which help her solve a plethora of murders which seem to happen in and around her small village.
This book revolves around the murders of 2 men who seem to have been involved in road traffic accidents, but then other connections appear between the men which lead the police, and Julia, to look elsewhere. Then there's a 3rd murder, seemingly unrelated, but was it?
I admit I did not know who the murderer was until it was revealed, this is a really well written cosy mystery.
Whilst the books in this series are standalone stories, they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the wider storyline.
I can't believe the next book is number 9 in the series, and I cannot wait for it to be released!
In her previous life she was a social worker, this helps her ask the questions which help her solve a plethora of murders which seem to happen in and around her small village.
This book revolves around the murders of 2 men who seem to have been involved in road traffic accidents, but then other connections appear between the men which lead the police, and Julia, to look elsewhere. Then there's a 3rd murder, seemingly unrelated, but was it?
I admit I did not know who the murderer was until it was revealed, this is a really well written cosy mystery.
Whilst the books in this series are standalone stories, they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the wider storyline.
I can't believe the next book is number 9 in the series, and I cannot wait for it to be released!
June 2, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review the eighth book in Katie Gayle's highly entertaining Julie Bird series - Murder In The Winter Woods.
On the way back from a Farmers' Market, taking the 'scenic route', Julia and her boyfriend come upon the body of Lewis Band, a local man who operated a taxi service for residents of Berrywick. Who would have been so cruel to not only run him down, but back up and run over him again? And is there any connection to the later death - in a similar manner - of Julia's neighbour and beekeeper Matthew Hester?
The answer seems to lie in the distant past when both men, along with other current and past Berrywick residents were members of an up and coming rock and that almost made it big.
And is an attempted poisoning related? That is the question.
As in previous books, Julia Bird is on the case, and her insights become quite valuable to the local Detective who is charged with finding the solution to the cases.
This is the epitome of a cozy mystery and a great read for a lazy afternoon.
Recommended.
On the way back from a Farmers' Market, taking the 'scenic route', Julia and her boyfriend come upon the body of Lewis Band, a local man who operated a taxi service for residents of Berrywick. Who would have been so cruel to not only run him down, but back up and run over him again? And is there any connection to the later death - in a similar manner - of Julia's neighbour and beekeeper Matthew Hester?
The answer seems to lie in the distant past when both men, along with other current and past Berrywick residents were members of an up and coming rock and that almost made it big.
And is an attempted poisoning related? That is the question.
As in previous books, Julia Bird is on the case, and her insights become quite valuable to the local Detective who is charged with finding the solution to the cases.
This is the epitome of a cozy mystery and a great read for a lazy afternoon.
Recommended.
June 28, 2025
I think that I say this after every book, but these Julia Bird Mysteries just get better and better. This time, Julia manages to stumble across two bodies and it soon becomes clear that there is a link between the two deaths.
It's been beautifully warm here, which seems a little strange when you're reading a book set at Christmas, that doesn't really matter though. It might have even helped cool me down very slightly. I think if you can, though, this would be a great read on a cold day.
I was feeling quite smug, as I was fairly confident that I'd solved this mystery before Julia had managed to. I wasn't wrong, but I will admit that I wasn't completely right either and might have changed my a few times here and there before the end.
This was another great instalment in the Julia Bird series. I can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
It's been beautifully warm here, which seems a little strange when you're reading a book set at Christmas, that doesn't really matter though. It might have even helped cool me down very slightly. I think if you can, though, this would be a great read on a cold day.
I was feeling quite smug, as I was fairly confident that I'd solved this mystery before Julia had managed to. I wasn't wrong, but I will admit that I wasn't completely right either and might have changed my a few times here and there before the end.
This was another great instalment in the Julia Bird series. I can't wait to see what she gets up to next.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
August 29, 2025
Julia Bird is a retired social worker sharing her life with Sean, a mostly retired local doctor, in a small village in the Cotswolds. Coming home in their car one evening they come across the dead body of the local taxi driver. Police investigation reveals that he was run over back and forth. Several days later there was another hit and run of a local resident. Julia has a history of doing well in the
investigations of crimes along with the local police. I always enjoy the stories in this series because of the engaging characters and the nicely intricate plots with just enough pleasant humor. Great read.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Sep 25, 2025 ***** Review @goodreads @bookbub @librarythingofficial #storygraph
#MurderintheWinterWoods by @katie_gayle01 #JuliaBirdMysteriesBk8 @bookouture #NetGalley @barnesandnoble #booksamillion #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #kobo #Waterstones #Cotswolds #whodunnit #cosycrime #seniorsleuth #friendship
investigations of crimes along with the local police. I always enjoy the stories in this series because of the engaging characters and the nicely intricate plots with just enough pleasant humor. Great read.
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected proof copy from Bookouture via NetGalley. Thank you! Avail Sep 25, 2025 ***** Review @goodreads @bookbub @librarythingofficial #storygraph
#MurderintheWinterWoods by @katie_gayle01 #JuliaBirdMysteriesBk8 @bookouture #NetGalley @barnesandnoble #booksamillion #bookshop_org #bookshop_org_uk #kobo #Waterstones #Cotswolds #whodunnit #cosycrime #seniorsleuth #friendship
July 31, 2025
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I love this series for the way the author blends a new murder mystery in with the ongoing lives of Julia and her family and friends. We get to follow Julia and Seth's relationship as it continues to grow and also to see how Jono continues to improve and find his place in life and the village. We also get to meet new characters to open up a whole new group of possible murderers. The reason behind the murders in this book was a bit darker than in previous stories and took me a little by surprise. The identity of the murderer was not a complete surprise once some of the clues were presented. As always, I enjoyed following along as Julia continuously found herself involved in the investigation even when she was genuinely trying to stay out of things. She is just the kind of person people tell things to without her having to do much questioning at all.
I love this series for the way the author blends a new murder mystery in with the ongoing lives of Julia and her family and friends. We get to follow Julia and Seth's relationship as it continues to grow and also to see how Jono continues to improve and find his place in life and the village. We also get to meet new characters to open up a whole new group of possible murderers. The reason behind the murders in this book was a bit darker than in previous stories and took me a little by surprise. The identity of the murderer was not a complete surprise once some of the clues were presented. As always, I enjoyed following along as Julia continuously found herself involved in the investigation even when she was genuinely trying to stay out of things. She is just the kind of person people tell things to without her having to do much questioning at all.
October 6, 2025
This is another intriguing Julia Bird cosy murder mystery
With surprising twists as well as village history.
Julia is shocked to find a man's body,
A local man, run over, an accident, maybe?
Julia, a member of the Road Safety Committee,
Wants to know more so revisits to see
She didn't anticipate finding anything new
But the St Christopher she finds could be a clue!
When another villager is run over and killed
Everyone is convinced there's a killer who must be stilled.
Looking for links between the two victims now
Julia is convinced there must be linked somehow.
A story where the victims' history is a huge clue
But uncovering more brings surprises, too.
Why would anyone target these two?
Julia will endeavour to reveal every clue!
A fascinating read that keeps you guessing right to the end
And a delightful one in which time to spend.
For my copy of this book I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
With surprising twists as well as village history.
Julia is shocked to find a man's body,
A local man, run over, an accident, maybe?
Julia, a member of the Road Safety Committee,
Wants to know more so revisits to see
She didn't anticipate finding anything new
But the St Christopher she finds could be a clue!
When another villager is run over and killed
Everyone is convinced there's a killer who must be stilled.
Looking for links between the two victims now
Julia is convinced there must be linked somehow.
A story where the victims' history is a huge clue
But uncovering more brings surprises, too.
Why would anyone target these two?
Julia will endeavour to reveal every clue!
A fascinating read that keeps you guessing right to the end
And a delightful one in which time to spend.
For my copy of this book I say a big thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.
October 24, 2025
Christmas is approaching and Julia Bird and her friends are enjoying the festivities. But then a man is killed in an apparent hit and run. It is assumed to be an accident until someone else is killed in the same way...
Murder in the Winter Woods is the 8th book in the Julia Bird series of amateur sleuth cosy murder mysteries.
Former nurse Julia finds both bodies and desperately tries to save them. She wants to help the police for her own peace of mind especially when it becomes clear there is a murderer in the community.
I loved the Christmassy feel underpinning the plot as well as the humour from Julia's road safety endeavour and of course her dog!
The mystery itself is sustained well throughout the book and I had no idea who was responsible or why. One victim seems to have a darker side while the other hasn't any enemies at all. Julia is ably assisted by friends and pets (fab!)
Murder in the Winter Woods is an enjoyable murder mystery.
Murder in the Winter Woods is the 8th book in the Julia Bird series of amateur sleuth cosy murder mysteries.
Former nurse Julia finds both bodies and desperately tries to save them. She wants to help the police for her own peace of mind especially when it becomes clear there is a murderer in the community.
I loved the Christmassy feel underpinning the plot as well as the humour from Julia's road safety endeavour and of course her dog!
The mystery itself is sustained well throughout the book and I had no idea who was responsible or why. One victim seems to have a darker side while the other hasn't any enemies at all. Julia is ably assisted by friends and pets (fab!)
Murder in the Winter Woods is an enjoyable murder mystery.
November 2, 2025
A cozy set in the idyllic town of Berrywick. Winter is upon the town and festivities planned for Christmas are in full swing. Julia on a walk did not expect to find a body, a victim of a hit and run apparently until proven otherwise. Julia discovers a pendant in the vicinity of the victim presuming it is his, until that too was proven to be not his. The second victim in similar circumstances, could not be a coincidence but trying to connect the dots and connections was a little complicated. One was a taxi driver, one was a bee keeper but like all good detectives, Julia begins to find the strands that will bring the story to a close. A third death by poisoning of a random (seemingly) woman, and the attempted poisoning of another makes it confusing for a while.
The final denouement was surprising and out of the blue.
Interesting story, mixed characters and very nice setting.
The final denouement was surprising and out of the blue.
Interesting story, mixed characters and very nice setting.
September 25, 2025
The 8th Julia Bird story. This time set at Christmas time. Can Julia help to solve the mystery of who has murdered the local taxi driver. We follow the group of people that we have come to love as they flit around the Cotswolds. Another pleasing cosy mystery with characters that seem like family, although maybe a little dysfunctional. Very enjoyable stories which are easy to read and which seem to understand what it's like to get old, perhaps too close to what the reader is experiencing in their lives. Always a pleasure reading a Julia Bird book. Well written and feel good books, even with the odd murder thrown in. Thoroughly recommended.
With thanks to the author, bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
With thanks to the author, bookouture and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book.
September 27, 2025
Another very entertaining and charming mystery in this series, a treat that made me feel good and kept me turning the pages.
It's a complex and multilayered story: I’m delighted to have caught up with the pleasant and well-developed characters.
Julia, Sam, the other villagers, and the lovely antics of Jake the dog all add warmth and personality.
There’s plenty going on: something from the past affects what’s happening in the present. The victims are nuanced, and the plot kept me engaged from start to finish.
The atmosphere is festive: it felt like spending Christmas in the Cotswolds.
Loved it, can’t wait to read another.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
It's a complex and multilayered story: I’m delighted to have caught up with the pleasant and well-developed characters.
Julia, Sam, the other villagers, and the lovely antics of Jake the dog all add warmth and personality.
There’s plenty going on: something from the past affects what’s happening in the present. The victims are nuanced, and the plot kept me engaged from start to finish.
The atmosphere is festive: it felt like spending Christmas in the Cotswolds.
Loved it, can’t wait to read another.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
October 22, 2025
Great story!! I finished it and then had to tell my husband, who sadly, is a non-reader, all about it. It was wonderful to reunite with Julia Bird, Sean, her "beau", Haley Gibson, local police detective and of course Jake, Julia's Not as naughty as he was in previous books, dog.
When two men who were born and raised in the village are the victims of hit and run accidents, and then another two residents are victims of poison, Julia knows she is going to end up investigating all these incidents. I finished this book and immediately wanted the next in the series. Sadly, I have to wait until March for that.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, set in the Cotswolds, do yourself a favor and read these books!
When two men who were born and raised in the village are the victims of hit and run accidents, and then another two residents are victims of poison, Julia knows she is going to end up investigating all these incidents. I finished this book and immediately wanted the next in the series. Sadly, I have to wait until March for that.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries, set in the Cotswolds, do yourself a favor and read these books!
June 4, 2025
Another fun read in this series. It's late November when the book starts out, and Julia and Sean are attending the Christmas light-up in the neighbouring village. Driving home on a dark lane, they discover the body of the Berrywick taxi driver, Lewis. He'd been killed by a car. Then Julia's neighbour is also killed by car. The police believe the killer is the same in both cases.
These books are so comfortable and easy to read. My favourite chapters are Julia and Sean and their kids and friends simply having a meal together, either at a restaurant or at home. Good food, good company and lots of laughter.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advance copy.
These books are so comfortable and easy to read. My favourite chapters are Julia and Sean and their kids and friends simply having a meal together, either at a restaurant or at home. Good food, good company and lots of laughter.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for an advance copy.
August 1, 2025
This is the first Julia Bird Mystery I have read and it works very well as a stand-alone novel, but I will be going back to read the rest of the series! Julia and her friend Sean are taking the scenic route home when Julia spies a body alongside the road. The local taxi driver is a victim of a hit-and-run driver. When Julia’s neighbor is also struck and killed at the local market, the investigation gets more convoluted. There are multiple motives and suspects with a terrific twist at the end. The characters are all likable and the Cotswold setting at Christmas time is lovely.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
September 28, 2025
Julia and Sean are enjoying the lead up to Christmas with the Christmas markets and theater events. But things take a deadly turn when they come upon a body in the woods. It looks like a hit and run.
Two weeks later there is another body. What is going on in their little village? How does the past play into the present?
The resolution to this mystery was sad. Painful events in the past causing death in the present.
I enjoy reading of the ambience of the Cotswold village life and Julia’s retirement with a dog named Jake and chickens.
The mysteries in this series always give the reader something to think about.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read the book.
Two weeks later there is another body. What is going on in their little village? How does the past play into the present?
The resolution to this mystery was sad. Painful events in the past causing death in the present.
I enjoy reading of the ambience of the Cotswold village life and Julia’s retirement with a dog named Jake and chickens.
The mysteries in this series always give the reader something to think about.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read the book.
September 22, 2025
A really enjoyable cosy murder mystery. Julia Bird finds a body whilst taking her dog for a walk in the woods, it is the local taxi driver, who looks to have been the victim of a hit and run. Then there is another sudden death of a woman in the village, closely followed by another death, this time from poison. With another villager in hospital from suspected poisoning it really is not looking good for the village. Julia is determined to find out what is going on.
Well written with a totally unexpected culprit being identified by Julia.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
Well written with a totally unexpected culprit being identified by Julia.
My thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
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