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Fixer-Upper Mystery #8
Premeditated Mortar: Fixer-Upper Mysteries, Book 8
Contractor Shannon Hammer gets tangled up in murder at a spooky old asylum in the latest Fixer-Upper Mystery from
New York Times
best-selling author Kate Carlisle....
Shannon Hammer is about to embark on one of the biggest projects of her career. Her best friend Jane Hennessey has purchased one wing of the Gables, formerly the old state insane asylum, located on a bucolic hillside two miles northeast of Lighthouse Cove. Jane plans to turn her section into a small luxury hotel complete with 20 ocean-view rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
Shannon is raring to get started on the enormous project and is shocked when a group of unruly protesters shows up at the groundbreaking ceremony and wreaks havoc. She’s even more freaked out when someone pushes her into a pit of bricks in a closed-off room of the asylum. Despite her close call, Shannon wants nothing more than to get back to work...until she finds a body not far from where she was pushed. Now Shannon is determined to get to the bottom of the goings-on at the Gables even if it kills her....
Shannon Hammer is about to embark on one of the biggest projects of her career. Her best friend Jane Hennessey has purchased one wing of the Gables, formerly the old state insane asylum, located on a bucolic hillside two miles northeast of Lighthouse Cove. Jane plans to turn her section into a small luxury hotel complete with 20 ocean-view rooms, a spa, and a restaurant.
Shannon is raring to get started on the enormous project and is shocked when a group of unruly protesters shows up at the groundbreaking ceremony and wreaks havoc. She’s even more freaked out when someone pushes her into a pit of bricks in a closed-off room of the asylum. Despite her close call, Shannon wants nothing more than to get back to work...until she finds a body not far from where she was pushed. Now Shannon is determined to get to the bottom of the goings-on at the Gables even if it kills her....
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First published December 1, 2020
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About the author
Kate Carlisle
97 books2,827 followersGolden Heart and Daphne du Maurier Award winning author Kate Carlisle spent over twenty years working in television production as an Associate Director for game and variety shows, including The Midnight Special, Solid Gold and The Gong Show. She traveled the world as a Dating Game chaperone and performed strange acts of silliness on The Gong Show. She also studied acting and singing, toiled in vineyards, collected books, joined a commune, sold fried chicken, modeled spring fashions and worked for a cruise ship line, but it was the year she spent in law school that finally drove her to begin writing fiction. It seemed the safest way to kill off her professors. Those professors are breathing easier now that Kate spends most of her time writing near the beach in Southern California where she lives with her perfect husband.
A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.
Despite the appearance of overnight success, Kate's dream of publication took many, many years to fulfill.
A lifelong love of old books and an appreciation of the art of bookbinding led Kate to create the Bibliophile Mysteries, featuring rare book expert Brooklyn Wainwright, whose bookbinding and restoration skills invariably uncover old secrets, treachery and murder. Kate is a member of Sisters in Crime, Mystery Writers of America, International Thriller Writers and Romance Writers of America. She loves to drink good wine and watch other people cook.
Despite the appearance of overnight success, Kate's dream of publication took many, many years to fulfill.
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January 19, 2021
Premeditated Mortar is the 8th book in the Fixer-Upper Mysteries written by Kate Carlisle. I've read all the other books in her cozy series and highly recommend them. For some reason, this one didn't connect as much as all the previous ones, but perhaps it was a reader issue and nothing else. I still enjoyed the town setting, character descriptions, and all the interaction among the supporting cast.
Shannon owns a construction company, and she's been hired by a good friend to help renovate one wing of the The Gables, a former institution. The entire property is being revitalized, and Rachel is overseeing the project. Rachel has convinced Shannon's boyfriend, Mac, a famous writer, to help fund it too. When Shannon and Mac do some exploring, they find a mysterious stranger running around the abandoned property. Later on, he shows up as part of a team who oppose the project. Even later on, one of those team members ends up dead. What does the past have to do with this murder, and who in town might be connected to the former medical staff or patients?
I praise the writing style and the background setting. The Gables is a perfect location, and I really enjoyed all the descriptions and scenes that took place there. Mac and Shannon's relationship and her connections with others shine too. For some reason, I struggled with the plot on this one. The murder doesn't happen until well after the 50% mark. We also don't get to know many of the characters and possible suspects, except as vague strangers, until that point too. When the mystery unfolds, it has a strong connection and reasoning, but much of that drama wasn't included early on... so my interest was starting to fade by then. Ultimately, I wasn't excited about the ending.
This is a rarity for Kate Carlisle for me. Perhaps because I'd just started watching the Netflix series Ratched--about a nurse with a strange and wicked way of handling ill patients--I was comparing the two in terms of character development and backstory. I will take partial blame on this one, and I will definitely read the next book as the author is usually highly reliable. That said, I end up around 3 stars... maybe up to 3.5 because of all the other components. But give it a try, yourself. I encourage everyone to read this author for the strong supporting plots alone.
Shannon owns a construction company, and she's been hired by a good friend to help renovate one wing of the The Gables, a former institution. The entire property is being revitalized, and Rachel is overseeing the project. Rachel has convinced Shannon's boyfriend, Mac, a famous writer, to help fund it too. When Shannon and Mac do some exploring, they find a mysterious stranger running around the abandoned property. Later on, he shows up as part of a team who oppose the project. Even later on, one of those team members ends up dead. What does the past have to do with this murder, and who in town might be connected to the former medical staff or patients?
I praise the writing style and the background setting. The Gables is a perfect location, and I really enjoyed all the descriptions and scenes that took place there. Mac and Shannon's relationship and her connections with others shine too. For some reason, I struggled with the plot on this one. The murder doesn't happen until well after the 50% mark. We also don't get to know many of the characters and possible suspects, except as vague strangers, until that point too. When the mystery unfolds, it has a strong connection and reasoning, but much of that drama wasn't included early on... so my interest was starting to fade by then. Ultimately, I wasn't excited about the ending.
This is a rarity for Kate Carlisle for me. Perhaps because I'd just started watching the Netflix series Ratched--about a nurse with a strange and wicked way of handling ill patients--I was comparing the two in terms of character development and backstory. I will take partial blame on this one, and I will definitely read the next book as the author is usually highly reliable. That said, I end up around 3 stars... maybe up to 3.5 because of all the other components. But give it a try, yourself. I encourage everyone to read this author for the strong supporting plots alone.
December 21, 2020
Shannon Hammer is back in this 8th book in the Fixer Upper mystery series. Shannon is a contractor who specializes in Victorian homes. Also, she occasionally come across a mystery to solve. In this book, Shannon takes on a renovation project of an old state insane asylum. She is excited to take on the new project, however, protesters and a dead body are hindering her progress.
I have read most of the books in this series, and the books continue to be enjoyable cozy mysteries. As with most series, it helps to better understand backstories if the series is read in order. That said, Premeditated Mortar can be read as a standalone.
An engaging and entertaining cozy mystery. With likable characters and a charming setting, this was a wonderful light mystery. I liked the renovation aspect of the story, especially the renovation of an old asylum. In short, a recommended read for fans of cozies. Delightful and fun.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I have read most of the books in this series, and the books continue to be enjoyable cozy mysteries. As with most series, it helps to better understand backstories if the series is read in order. That said, Premeditated Mortar can be read as a standalone.
An engaging and entertaining cozy mystery. With likable characters and a charming setting, this was a wonderful light mystery. I liked the renovation aspect of the story, especially the renovation of an old asylum. In short, a recommended read for fans of cozies. Delightful and fun.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 5, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Contractor Shannon Hammer is very excited to take on a year-long project with her BFF Jane Hennessey. Jane is turning one wing of the Gables into a small luxurious hotel. The Gables used to be a state-run insane asylum that had ties to both she and Jane so both were expecting a few ghosts to come out to haunt them, the new dead bodies not so much. Shannon has gotten under someone’s skin with all her questions and puts her life in peril. But she is not backing down until she hammers down the killer.
While the renovation Shannon and her crew are taking on is huge, the secrets and memories the building holds are enormous and some are heartwrenching. Ms. Carlisle takes her time introducing all the new characters and the history of the Gables and I loved that. I became invested in the storyline immediately and well before the first body was discovered. She doesn’t give readers too much background on the characters at first, just enough to grab our attention and make us wonder how they may connect to the asylum. Like a sweet onion as the story continues layer after layer is peeled away to keep those pages quickly turning.
All the characters I have grown to love return and the couples are growing closer even though one person is getting a case of nerves. I love to see Shannon’s construction company continue to grow too. She has a great crew that work well together and support their boss in every way. I get excited every time I start a book in this series to see where the author is going to take these characters and she never disappoints.
Premeditated Mortar is an excellent addition to this series. Ms. Carlisle builds this story brick by brick and surprised me in the end. Engaging characters, an interesting setting, and a marvelous mystery kept me totally entertained. I truly can’t wait for the next book in this series!
Contractor Shannon Hammer is very excited to take on a year-long project with her BFF Jane Hennessey. Jane is turning one wing of the Gables into a small luxurious hotel. The Gables used to be a state-run insane asylum that had ties to both she and Jane so both were expecting a few ghosts to come out to haunt them, the new dead bodies not so much. Shannon has gotten under someone’s skin with all her questions and puts her life in peril. But she is not backing down until she hammers down the killer.
While the renovation Shannon and her crew are taking on is huge, the secrets and memories the building holds are enormous and some are heartwrenching. Ms. Carlisle takes her time introducing all the new characters and the history of the Gables and I loved that. I became invested in the storyline immediately and well before the first body was discovered. She doesn’t give readers too much background on the characters at first, just enough to grab our attention and make us wonder how they may connect to the asylum. Like a sweet onion as the story continues layer after layer is peeled away to keep those pages quickly turning.
All the characters I have grown to love return and the couples are growing closer even though one person is getting a case of nerves. I love to see Shannon’s construction company continue to grow too. She has a great crew that work well together and support their boss in every way. I get excited every time I start a book in this series to see where the author is going to take these characters and she never disappoints.
Premeditated Mortar is an excellent addition to this series. Ms. Carlisle builds this story brick by brick and surprised me in the end. Engaging characters, an interesting setting, and a marvelous mystery kept me totally entertained. I truly can’t wait for the next book in this series!
November 10, 2020
I have been a fan of this series for a long time. It was my introduction to Kate Carlisle and I've never looked back. I think Premeditated Mortar is one of my favorite books in the series to date. Shannon is undertaking a massive project for her friend Jane. She is turning a building that was part of a Victorian-era asylum (the Gables) into a premier hotel. The setting is pretty creepy and unsettling especially as Shannon and Mac delve into the history of what happened to some of the patients while at the asylum. It wouldn't be a Shannon Hammer project if somewhere along the way she doesn't trip over a dead body, leading to another murder investigation. The mystery was really well done. With each new incident that occurs at the Gables, the layers are peeled back and more suspects and motives are revealed. I love how the location and mystery in this story connect to Shannon's friend Jane allowing the reader to get more of her backstory.
I really love the characters in this story. The relationship between Mac and Shannon is perfect. They are a great couple and their progressing romance does not hinder the story, but for me enhances. Because Mac is a mystery/thriller writer, he is able to help Shannon channel her inner curiosity and between them come up with a lot of great clues and theories to help the chief of police. I also love the sibling relationship between Chloe and Shannon. Given how things are moving along with Chole and the Chief, I am looking forward to seeing more of her in future stories.
This is a series that I look forward to with each new book. Ms. Carslisle hits all the right notes for me as a cozy mystery fan with interesting mysteries, entertaining plots, great characters, and a lovely setting. I am a fan and will continue to return to Lighthouse Cove for as long as Ms. Carlisle continues to write this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Berkley, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
I really love the characters in this story. The relationship between Mac and Shannon is perfect. They are a great couple and their progressing romance does not hinder the story, but for me enhances. Because Mac is a mystery/thriller writer, he is able to help Shannon channel her inner curiosity and between them come up with a lot of great clues and theories to help the chief of police. I also love the sibling relationship between Chloe and Shannon. Given how things are moving along with Chole and the Chief, I am looking forward to seeing more of her in future stories.
This is a series that I look forward to with each new book. Ms. Carslisle hits all the right notes for me as a cozy mystery fan with interesting mysteries, entertaining plots, great characters, and a lovely setting. I am a fan and will continue to return to Lighthouse Cove for as long as Ms. Carlisle continues to write this series.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Berkley, through Netgalley. The thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
February 10, 2021
Kate Carlisle is back with another installment of the Fixer-Upper Mystery series. Carlisle is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors, so I always look forward to a new release by her.
PREMEDITATED MORTAR finds Shannon Hammer is a whole lot of trouble when a friend Jane wants her to help her create a luxury hotel from an old insane asylum. As you can expect, it doesn’t go so smoothly for them. However, I did enjoy a lot of this book. While it’s not my favorite of the series, it certainly had a unique premise to it.
I found the beginning of the book to be especially slow, but once it gets started, I felt like the pacing got better. I’m still a fan of Carlisle’s writing style. It’s very clear and concise, but she keeps readers always on their toes.
I find this series an especially good one if you’re just getting into Cozy Mysteries or want to try one out. You don’t necessarily have to read the series in order to enjoy it, but you’ll get a better understanding of Shannon and her love life if you do.
In summary, I think PREMEDIATED MORTAR is a solid installment in the series. But I’m hoping for more action and suspense in the next one from Kate Carlisle!
November 16, 2020
Series: Fixer Upper Mystery #8
Publication Date: 12/1/20
Number of Pages: 304
OOOOOO – Picture this setting – a dark and foreboding former state insane asylum. The complex includes seven large Victorian style buildings and those buildings have all been acquired by a developer who has plans to turn the complex into an upscale ‘destination’ with upscale shops and a luxury hotel. The complex was originally built in Victorian times by Dr. Jones who firmly believed that a beautiful idyllic setting, pleasant surroundings, outside activities, etc. were all beneficial to his patients and he built the complex with those ideals in mind. The asylum was later privatized and was renamed ‘Gables’.
Shannon Hammer’s best friend Jane Hennessey has acquired the lease to building seven in order to create a small luxury hotel and Shannon’s company has been chosen to do the renovations. It is the biggest undertaking of Shannon’s career and she is looking forward to helping her friend create the hotel of her dreams. Jane’s mother was a patient at the Gables, and Jane wants to create the hotel as a warm, loving place in her mother’s memory.
Things begin to go wrong from the beginning – at the ribbon cutting ceremony that allows the lessees to begin their construction projects. When protestors arrive and the developer is slimed, things begin to go from bad to worse. All of the attention seems to be centered around building seven and Shannon is injured more than once and each of those ‘accidents’ could have cost her life. What is going on? Who could wish this project to go wrong? Who are those protestors who seem to have come out of nowhere?
As we read along, we learn more of the history behind the later years of the hospital and the patients who lived there. Can Shannon and Mac help the police chief, Eric, solve the case – even when there is a murder – or two?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the mystery. We saw a more emotional Shannon this time around. I’m not sure I enjoyed a tearful Shannon, nor am I sure I understood the reasons behind it, but that was a minor part of the story. I loved the growth and changes in the romantic relationships between Shannon and Mac, Chloe and Eric, and Jane and Niall.
You can totally read this as a standalone book even though it is part of a series. I hope you will give it a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication Date: 12/1/20
Number of Pages: 304
OOOOOO – Picture this setting – a dark and foreboding former state insane asylum. The complex includes seven large Victorian style buildings and those buildings have all been acquired by a developer who has plans to turn the complex into an upscale ‘destination’ with upscale shops and a luxury hotel. The complex was originally built in Victorian times by Dr. Jones who firmly believed that a beautiful idyllic setting, pleasant surroundings, outside activities, etc. were all beneficial to his patients and he built the complex with those ideals in mind. The asylum was later privatized and was renamed ‘Gables’.
Shannon Hammer’s best friend Jane Hennessey has acquired the lease to building seven in order to create a small luxury hotel and Shannon’s company has been chosen to do the renovations. It is the biggest undertaking of Shannon’s career and she is looking forward to helping her friend create the hotel of her dreams. Jane’s mother was a patient at the Gables, and Jane wants to create the hotel as a warm, loving place in her mother’s memory.
Things begin to go wrong from the beginning – at the ribbon cutting ceremony that allows the lessees to begin their construction projects. When protestors arrive and the developer is slimed, things begin to go from bad to worse. All of the attention seems to be centered around building seven and Shannon is injured more than once and each of those ‘accidents’ could have cost her life. What is going on? Who could wish this project to go wrong? Who are those protestors who seem to have come out of nowhere?
As we read along, we learn more of the history behind the later years of the hospital and the patients who lived there. Can Shannon and Mac help the police chief, Eric, solve the case – even when there is a murder – or two?
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the mystery. We saw a more emotional Shannon this time around. I’m not sure I enjoyed a tearful Shannon, nor am I sure I understood the reasons behind it, but that was a minor part of the story. I loved the growth and changes in the romantic relationships between Shannon and Mac, Chloe and Eric, and Jane and Niall.
You can totally read this as a standalone book even though it is part of a series. I hope you will give it a read and enjoy it as much as I did.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 3, 2020
Premeditated Mortar by Kate Carlisle is a compelling cozy mystery. Shannon Hammer, Mac Sullivan, Jane Hennessey, and the gang are back. Jane has purchased the seventh building at the Gables which was once the Northern California Asylum for the Insane. The buildings have been abandoned for years but there is no denying the potential. Shannon cannot wait to start the project with her crew. It will take a year to turn the Victorian building into the Hennessey Hotel. Some people, though, are not excited about the project and set out to derail it. I thought Premeditated Mortar was well-written with developed characters and steady pacing. I enjoyed the descriptions of the town and the Gables. The author’s vivid word imagery brought the scenes alive for me. The mystery was multifaceted and creative. There are several viable suspects, misdirection, and subtle clues. I had a good time following this whodunit and figuring out the identity of the guilty party. I like how the romance is progressing between Mac and Shannon. We also get to catch up with Chloe and Eric as well as Jane and Niall. Romance is blooming in Lighthouse Cove and the ending has me eager for the next A Fixer-Upper Mystery. Premeditated Mortar can be read as a standalone if you are new to the series or if you have missed a book or two. Premeditated Mortar is a diverting cozy mystery with malicious mischief, creepy corridors, awesome architecture, flourishing romances, and a perplexing puzzle.
December 16, 2020
Premeditated Mortar by Kate Carlisle pulled me into Lighthouse Bay from the first chapter. It was so good to visit with Shannon and Mac again. I enjoyed learning more about Jane in this one as it revealed a little darkness in her past due to her mother's mental illness. For me, Jane's success in Lighthouse Bay showed how strong and resilient she is as she has matured. Romance is in the air in Lighthouse Bay throughout this book, too. I look forward to attending some weddings in the future.
November 11, 2020
As cozy mysteries go, this series never fails to bring a breath of fresh air (albeit infused with the scent of sawdust). I've read three so far - I believe this is the eighth - and thoroughly enjoyed each one.
As this begins, building contractor Shannon Hammer has signed on to renovate and restore a wing of a long-abandoned mental hospital known as the Gables. The wing will become an upscale hotel owned by Shannon's friend, Jane Hennessey; when completed, the rest of the property will become a large retail complex that, hopefully, will attract visitors to Lighthouse Cove, North Carolina. Shannon's main squeeze, successful writer Mac Sullivan, has invested in the hotel project, so she's eager to get started.
But at the groundbreaking ceremony, her hopes are dashed a bit as a group of protesters show up to create a media circus. But wait, there's more: After the protesters disburse and she heads inside to get a better look at what needs to be done during the year-long renovation, someone pushes Shannon into a huge stack of bricks. Once she gets back on her feet - literally and figuratively - she goes back in to check out a hidden space and finds the body of one of the protesters.
From there, it's a merry chase to identify the killer that brings most of Shannon's close friends and her sister Chloe together (Chloe, for the record, has been in a serious relationship with the local chief of police). The investigation takes several turns, revealing previously unknown relationships and the possibility that the murderer might be someone close to Shannon. In between are details of the restoration project and the dark history of the mental institution - all interesting in and of themselves. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the chance to read and review another winner - and now I'm looking forward to the next installment!
As this begins, building contractor Shannon Hammer has signed on to renovate and restore a wing of a long-abandoned mental hospital known as the Gables. The wing will become an upscale hotel owned by Shannon's friend, Jane Hennessey; when completed, the rest of the property will become a large retail complex that, hopefully, will attract visitors to Lighthouse Cove, North Carolina. Shannon's main squeeze, successful writer Mac Sullivan, has invested in the hotel project, so she's eager to get started.
But at the groundbreaking ceremony, her hopes are dashed a bit as a group of protesters show up to create a media circus. But wait, there's more: After the protesters disburse and she heads inside to get a better look at what needs to be done during the year-long renovation, someone pushes Shannon into a huge stack of bricks. Once she gets back on her feet - literally and figuratively - she goes back in to check out a hidden space and finds the body of one of the protesters.
From there, it's a merry chase to identify the killer that brings most of Shannon's close friends and her sister Chloe together (Chloe, for the record, has been in a serious relationship with the local chief of police). The investigation takes several turns, revealing previously unknown relationships and the possibility that the murderer might be someone close to Shannon. In between are details of the restoration project and the dark history of the mental institution - all interesting in and of themselves. Thanks to the publisher, via NetGalley, for the chance to read and review another winner - and now I'm looking forward to the next installment!
November 28, 2020
This is the eighth book in the fixer upper series by Kate Carlisle. Shannon Hammer is all set to start work on a new project involving her boyfriend, Mac, and her best friend, Jane. Jane has purchased a part of The Gables, once an insane asylum where Jane mother used to live, and soon to be hotel run by Jane. On the day of the groundbreaking, a group of protestors show up and cause havoc. Then things start happening. Shannon is pushed into a pile of bricks and she finds a dead body in a hidden room.
This is one of my favorites written by Carlisle. I loved the setting of The Gables. I loved the history of insane asylums woven into the story. As always the characters are great. Shannon is a wonderfully smart and relatable character. I loved seeing Shannon's sister in this book and am glad we will be seeing more of her. The mystery was well done. I definitely didn't expect who the killer was, but really enjoyed how it came together.
This is one of my favorites written by Carlisle. I loved the setting of The Gables. I loved the history of insane asylums woven into the story. As always the characters are great. Shannon is a wonderfully smart and relatable character. I loved seeing Shannon's sister in this book and am glad we will be seeing more of her. The mystery was well done. I definitely didn't expect who the killer was, but really enjoyed how it came together.
October 29, 2020
4.5 stars - Fun, fast-paced mystery. It is creepy in some places because of the setting. I love the chemistry and the banter between Shannon and Mac.
November 15, 2020
Full review at Sam's Beach Reads.
What I Loved:
The Setting at the Asylum. Kate Carlisle writes a great scene, and Premeditated Mortar was no exception. I loved the slightly spooky setting of the insane asylum, but also how gorgeous it was. The turrets and courtyard style lend itself to the new project of a retreat and beautiful hotel, and you can actually picture the whole construction project. In my community, we also had a large asylum that was shut down during major mental health reforms, and I recognized a lot of the features they described (the long corridors facing the sun, underground tunnels that connected all of the buildings together). It makes this even more real for me, because my community never did anything with our old asylum building and it is now an unwanted relic of a shameful past. Premeditated Mortar makes the project look believable and doable.
Chloe Hammer. I love Shannon’s sister Chloe, TV show extraordinaire and partner to the police chief. Chloe is brash and confident, and she is unapologetically feminine while also being a great builder. She is also a loyal sister to Shannon and I am so excited she is going to be playing a larger role in the coming books, because frankly, she is becoming more interesting than Shannon.
The Depiction of Mental Illness. I think that Carlisle did a fantastic job of showing various forms of mental illness (depression, mental intellectual disabilities, etc.) and how treatments have changed over time. The original doctor is a classic Nurse Ratchet, and some of her patients were scarred for life. The evolution of modern medicine is also on full display, with characters that were previously institutionalized able to live normal lives due to new medications. I like that this detailed research and characterizations elevated Premeditated Mortar from a regular cozy to something with a little more nuance.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
Shannon and Mac. Now, this is unpopular, and honestly this is the first book I have felt this way. But Mac and Shannon are sickeningly cute. The “will they won’t they” was annoying, and when they got together, I was as excited as everyone. However over time, it has become too much. Every cutesy dinner they cook together, every time Shannon longingly looks into Mac’s eyes and thinks he is the hottest thing ever, every time she “has to forgive” a girl for staring at Mac longingly because he is *that good looking,* I cringe. And it isn’t Mac! He is normal and loving but at an appropriate level, but Shannon is insufferable. I just wish their cloying sweetness is toned down in future books, because Shannon is a less strong character for it.
The Mystery. While I loved all of the characters surrounding the mystery, particularly Rachel and Michael, I definitely felt that the killer was a little obvious and the handling of the “big reveal” was anticlimactic. I checked, and the murder doesn’t even occur until 80 percent into the book… I’m sorry, what?! How is that even a genre murder mystery anymore? Since there is a couple of mysteries in one, I will admit that I loved the historical context of the asylum, but the murder mystery itself was slapdash and felt more like a plot device than the plot itself. The second murder was handled even more cavalierly, and the killer was discovered almost as soon as the body was.
What I Loved:
The Setting at the Asylum. Kate Carlisle writes a great scene, and Premeditated Mortar was no exception. I loved the slightly spooky setting of the insane asylum, but also how gorgeous it was. The turrets and courtyard style lend itself to the new project of a retreat and beautiful hotel, and you can actually picture the whole construction project. In my community, we also had a large asylum that was shut down during major mental health reforms, and I recognized a lot of the features they described (the long corridors facing the sun, underground tunnels that connected all of the buildings together). It makes this even more real for me, because my community never did anything with our old asylum building and it is now an unwanted relic of a shameful past. Premeditated Mortar makes the project look believable and doable.
Chloe Hammer. I love Shannon’s sister Chloe, TV show extraordinaire and partner to the police chief. Chloe is brash and confident, and she is unapologetically feminine while also being a great builder. She is also a loyal sister to Shannon and I am so excited she is going to be playing a larger role in the coming books, because frankly, she is becoming more interesting than Shannon.
The Depiction of Mental Illness. I think that Carlisle did a fantastic job of showing various forms of mental illness (depression, mental intellectual disabilities, etc.) and how treatments have changed over time. The original doctor is a classic Nurse Ratchet, and some of her patients were scarred for life. The evolution of modern medicine is also on full display, with characters that were previously institutionalized able to live normal lives due to new medications. I like that this detailed research and characterizations elevated Premeditated Mortar from a regular cozy to something with a little more nuance.
What Didn’t Work For Me:
Shannon and Mac. Now, this is unpopular, and honestly this is the first book I have felt this way. But Mac and Shannon are sickeningly cute. The “will they won’t they” was annoying, and when they got together, I was as excited as everyone. However over time, it has become too much. Every cutesy dinner they cook together, every time Shannon longingly looks into Mac’s eyes and thinks he is the hottest thing ever, every time she “has to forgive” a girl for staring at Mac longingly because he is *that good looking,* I cringe. And it isn’t Mac! He is normal and loving but at an appropriate level, but Shannon is insufferable. I just wish their cloying sweetness is toned down in future books, because Shannon is a less strong character for it.
The Mystery. While I loved all of the characters surrounding the mystery, particularly Rachel and Michael, I definitely felt that the killer was a little obvious and the handling of the “big reveal” was anticlimactic. I checked, and the murder doesn’t even occur until 80 percent into the book… I’m sorry, what?! How is that even a genre murder mystery anymore? Since there is a couple of mysteries in one, I will admit that I loved the historical context of the asylum, but the murder mystery itself was slapdash and felt more like a plot device than the plot itself. The second murder was handled even more cavalierly, and the killer was discovered almost as soon as the body was.
January 30, 2021
I have enjoyed this series from the start; Premeditated Mortar has not changed that fact. The characters are entirely believable, the location warm and inviting, and the mysteries are well written with enough action to make them enticing. Writing a home renovation series isn’t easy; it can be challenging to keep things fresh and new, but Kate Carlisle knows what she is doing and how to write a cozy mystery.
Shannon can be a bit much to take at times, especially when she is mooning over Mac. But when a person is passionately in love with someone, they should be mooning over them, at least for a while. It’s time Shannon and Mac take their relationship to the next level and grow as a couple instead of remaining in a teenage cloud. Shannon’s sister is adorable, and I love that she played a somewhat larger role and looks to play an even bigger one in the future. Mac is still impressive, but he definitely needs to be less involved in Shannon’s home renovation business and more with his writing career.
The murder in this book does not occur at the beginning of the book, or the middle, which is odd in a cozy. But the mystery in this book pertains more to the asylum’s past and its future than it does with a killer or victim. The murderer is, in my opinion, easy to figure out, with the obvious motive there from the start. I don’t think there was ever a doubt who the victim would be. There are plenty of suspects, although not all of them play a significant role in the investigation. The renovation of the asylum is detailed enough to make readers want to see it happen and perhaps remind them of old asylums and hospitals in their hometowns that could become beautiful.
There is some drama at the end of Premeditated Mortar that makes readers smile and look forward to the next installment. I can’t wait to read the continuation of Shannon’s story, finding out what her next renovation will be and how much trouble she can get into before she puts herself and others in danger.
Shannon can be a bit much to take at times, especially when she is mooning over Mac. But when a person is passionately in love with someone, they should be mooning over them, at least for a while. It’s time Shannon and Mac take their relationship to the next level and grow as a couple instead of remaining in a teenage cloud. Shannon’s sister is adorable, and I love that she played a somewhat larger role and looks to play an even bigger one in the future. Mac is still impressive, but he definitely needs to be less involved in Shannon’s home renovation business and more with his writing career.
The murder in this book does not occur at the beginning of the book, or the middle, which is odd in a cozy. But the mystery in this book pertains more to the asylum’s past and its future than it does with a killer or victim. The murderer is, in my opinion, easy to figure out, with the obvious motive there from the start. I don’t think there was ever a doubt who the victim would be. There are plenty of suspects, although not all of them play a significant role in the investigation. The renovation of the asylum is detailed enough to make readers want to see it happen and perhaps remind them of old asylums and hospitals in their hometowns that could become beautiful.
There is some drama at the end of Premeditated Mortar that makes readers smile and look forward to the next installment. I can’t wait to read the continuation of Shannon’s story, finding out what her next renovation will be and how much trouble she can get into before she puts herself and others in danger.
August 18, 2020
What is creepier than an old Insane asylum? Not much except maybe a murderer running around in one. Shannon Hammer has a new contracting job turning an old run down former insane asylum into a 5 star hotel for her friend Jane. Shannon's boyfriend Mac also decides to become an investor in the development. That is where the adventure starts for our mystery loving duo. Between protesters, secret rooms, accidents and murder will Shannon and Mac even survive let alone finish the project? I know people say this all the time but I literally could not put this book down. In fact I was so engrossed I was surprised when it ended. This book is an absolute must read.
December 11, 2020
What could possibly go wrong when Shannon Hammer agreed to renovate one wing of a state insane asylum to turn it into a boutique hotel. Shes working with her best friend, Jane, who has her own reasons for wanting to turn it into a place of beauty and light. When protesters and the original head doctor show up at the groundbreaking and clash, that sets the tone. Then a body is discovered. Loved the book and kept trying to sneak time to read and finish it. Great characters and an unusual setting for this fast paced story. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 8, 2021
Excellent! This one I liked even better than the last! I love Shannon and all her friends and they way they have developed over the years!
May 26, 2022
4 stelle e mezza
Al centro del libro c'è un vecchio manicomio che verrà restaurato, aprendo negozi, un albergo e altri spazi. Sebbene l'omicidio vero e proprio avvenga solo nell'ultimo terzo del libro (per cui le "indagini" sono molto veloci), il libro è "denso": non credo che ci voglia molta fantasia per capire che il manicomio ha conosciuto momenti bui durante la sua esistenza... È un po' pesante leggere di quello che avveniva sapendo che quasi sicuramente cose simili sono successe veramente.
Al centro del libro c'è un vecchio manicomio che verrà restaurato, aprendo negozi, un albergo e altri spazi. Sebbene l'omicidio vero e proprio avvenga solo nell'ultimo terzo del libro (per cui le "indagini" sono molto veloci), il libro è "denso": non credo che ci voglia molta fantasia per capire che il manicomio ha conosciuto momenti bui durante la sua esistenza... È un po' pesante leggere di quello che avveniva sapendo che quasi sicuramente cose simili sono successe veramente.
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February 12, 2021
Kate Carlisle is back with another installment of the Fixer-Upper Mystery series. Carlisle is one of my favorite Cozy Mystery authors, so I always look forward to a new release by her.
PREMEDITATED MORTAR finds Shannon Hammer is a whole lot of trouble when a friend Jane wants her to help her create a luxury hotel from an old insane asylum. As you can expect, it doesn’t go so smoothly for them. However, I did enjoy a lot of this book. While it’s not my favorite of the series, it certainly had a unique premise to it.
I found the beginning of the book to be especially slow, but once it gets started, I felt like the pacing got better. I’m still a fan of Carlisle’s writing style. It’s very clear and concise, but she keeps readers always on their toes.
I find this series an especially good one if you’re just getting into Cozy Mysteries or want to try one out. You don’t necessarily have to read the series in order to enjoy it, but you’ll get a better understanding of Shannon and her love life if you do.
In summary, I think PREMEDIATED MORTAR is a solid installment in the series. But I’m hoping for more action and suspense in the next one from Kate Carlisle!
Reviewed by Ann❤ ♡ Don't want to miss any of our posts? Subscribe to our blog by email! ♡ ❤
November 30, 2020
Whenever I need a well-written cozy to take my mind off things, Kate Carlisle's Fixer-Upper series always does the trick. In Premeditated Mortar, she's got the perfect setting for a mystery-- an old rundown former insane asylum. There's just got to be strange goings-on in a place like that, right? This is an engaging story with excellent pacing, and I had to laugh at Shannon's reaction when she learns just how far her reputation for stumbling over dead bodies has spread.
Like all good cozy series, the reason why readers keep coming back for more is the cast of characters. Shannon is smart, funny, and I love the work she does. I also love how she keeps her tools from disappearing-- they're all pink-- and let me tell you, it works. Carlisle gives out pink measuring tapes from time to time at her book signings. I took mine home, and I still have it, which is more than I can say about other measuring tapes I used to have. My husband has borrowed my pink one twice, but he always gives it back. I wonder why...
Carlisle recently said in an interview that her favorite characters are her men, like Shannon's boyfriend, Mac Sullivan, a drop-dead gorgeous hunk who has a great sense of humor, who's smart and funny and brave. Oh. And he also happens to be a best-selling thriller writer and former Navy SEAL. It just occurred to me what Carlisle's male characters remind me of. Remember the Bond Girls in all those James Bond movies? Carlisle has her own Bond Boys, and they are certainly tasty.
A spooky setting, an engaging mystery, and a fun cast of characters. Premeditated Mortar is good for what ails you, and I can't wait for Shannon's next adventure.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
Like all good cozy series, the reason why readers keep coming back for more is the cast of characters. Shannon is smart, funny, and I love the work she does. I also love how she keeps her tools from disappearing-- they're all pink-- and let me tell you, it works. Carlisle gives out pink measuring tapes from time to time at her book signings. I took mine home, and I still have it, which is more than I can say about other measuring tapes I used to have. My husband has borrowed my pink one twice, but he always gives it back. I wonder why...
Carlisle recently said in an interview that her favorite characters are her men, like Shannon's boyfriend, Mac Sullivan, a drop-dead gorgeous hunk who has a great sense of humor, who's smart and funny and brave. Oh. And he also happens to be a best-selling thriller writer and former Navy SEAL. It just occurred to me what Carlisle's male characters remind me of. Remember the Bond Girls in all those James Bond movies? Carlisle has her own Bond Boys, and they are certainly tasty.
A spooky setting, an engaging mystery, and a fun cast of characters. Premeditated Mortar is good for what ails you, and I can't wait for Shannon's next adventure.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
December 16, 2020
A fascinating story! Shannon’s friend, Jane, has purchased a building at The Gables, an old insane asylum, that is being rehabbed into a retail/hotel/park space. The day of breaking ground on the construction of the new spaces, protestors show up. Other issues continue as work goes on as Shannon gets injured and one of the protestors is found dead. This book was really interesting as it gave readers a glimpse into what life must have been like for those with mental illness back in the days before treatment of different illnesses became better known. I enjoyed how Shannon and Jane were trying to take something that had a gloomy past and make it into something more cheerful and enjoyable for all. I can’t even begin to imagine some of the horrors people must have gone through in those days. I really enjoyed this book and this series is fascinating to see how Shannon can turn something that is falling apart into something beautiful. I look forward to reading more of this series with it’s intriguing characters and charming town and seeing what’s next for Shannon and her friends.
April 5, 2022
I enjoyed this book so much. Something about the creep factor of an abandoned psychiatric hospital and the human aspect of the poor people who were not even treated as humans there (in comparison to the founder who truly wanted to do anything to help people) was just so captivating. This was less a straight forward murder mystery because the murder doesn't happen for a while, but there are definitely dangers and other dramas occurring (and poor Shannon is getting the brunt of the danger). I love seeing the side characters and her friends and coworkers. She and Mac and goals and I love seeing how their relationship has progressed and how much trust they have in each other. I also appreciate that Eric the police chief treats Shannon with respect and isn't constantly nagging her like many fictional officers. It was emotional and I was pretty saddened by the reveal and how much hurt some of these characters faced in their past. I love all the construction and architecture aspects and can't wait for more.
December 1, 2020
Kate Carlisle writes entertaining cozy mysteries. Her Fixer-Upper Mystery series and The Bibliophile Mystery series are two of my favorites.
In Premeditated Mortar, Shannon is helping her friend Jane rehab part of an old mental health hospital in their hometown of Lighthouse Cove. During this process they encounter a protest group, the narcissistic former doctor in charge, and former patients. Before you know it, a body is discovered behind a wall that blocked off a hidden section of the mental hospital. Secrets of the past are revealed as Shannon and her boyfriend, thriller writer Mac, try to connect all the clues.
Shannon, her friends, and their partners are all part of this story which will please longtime readers.
Thank you Edelweiss+ and Berkley Press for the ARC.
In Premeditated Mortar, Shannon is helping her friend Jane rehab part of an old mental health hospital in their hometown of Lighthouse Cove. During this process they encounter a protest group, the narcissistic former doctor in charge, and former patients. Before you know it, a body is discovered behind a wall that blocked off a hidden section of the mental hospital. Secrets of the past are revealed as Shannon and her boyfriend, thriller writer Mac, try to connect all the clues.
Shannon, her friends, and their partners are all part of this story which will please longtime readers.
Thank you Edelweiss+ and Berkley Press for the ARC.
August 24, 2020
I like returning to Lighthouse Cove to solve mysteries with this cast of characters. The held over high school drama was dialed down in this book, thankfully, though I wish the author would do away with it completely. This book had a creepier tone than the previous books in the series, which made me think it would have a Halloween release date, but it won't be out until late November. Overall 3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on November 24, 2020.
I received an ARC from NetGalley. The book will be released on November 24, 2020.
February 10, 2021
A former mental institution is being commercialized and Shannon is working on one building to turn it into a hotel for Jane. The reason for the radicalization of "burn it down!" rather than just avoiding it, spewed by the protesters, is far too weak. Still, reading it not long after the insurrection in DC means I can't think it's totally specious. The characters are a bit too canned, but the story flows well enough.
December 17, 2020
Shannon’s best friend Jane buys a fancy abandoned insane asylum. Her friend’s mother had been a patient there and the place feels gloomy and full of ghosts. Jane is going to make it into a luxury hotel. A brick wall is found and of course a dead body is behind it. could one of the people protesting Jane’s turning it into a hotel? Shannon’s romance heats up also.
February 3, 2021
I'm still such a huge fan of this series, despite this entry being a little lackluster for me. I felt the format was a little off - the mystery didn't really begin until about 60% of the way through the book, and so the ending felt rushed.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the free e-copy.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the free e-copy.
January 23, 2021
I read the book in 24 hours. I just couldn't put it down. If you haven't tried any of Kate's book yet you really must get hold of one and be ready for the read of a lifetime.
November 17, 2024
Abandoned insane asylums always have a sense of foreboding. The Gables, an old asylum, is the setting for the 8th book in the Fixer-Upper series. Jane Hennessey, Shannon Hammer’s best friend, bought a wing there and plans to turn it into a fancy hotel with all the bells and whistles. So, Shannon will be busy - not just because she’s Jane’s bestie, but also because she’s a contractor and will be starting the renovations.
For reasons unclear to Shannon, there are some people who have a problem with the projects that will be going on there and are giving Shannon a hard time. Shannon soon has a freaky experience. A protestor has shoved her into a pile of bricks and when they topple, she finds a dead body. Shannon has proved more than skilled when it comes to solving murders, so her attention is easily diverted. Shannon is now determined to discovervwho the body belonged to, how it ended up behind the wall, and even would like to identify the killer.
This book, Premeditated Mortar, does touch on some serious issues, including how terrible those suffering with mental health issues were treated in the past. With a total of eleven books so far in the series, Shannon often finds herself in a pickle, but always comes out the victor.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
For reasons unclear to Shannon, there are some people who have a problem with the projects that will be going on there and are giving Shannon a hard time. Shannon soon has a freaky experience. A protestor has shoved her into a pile of bricks and when they topple, she finds a dead body. Shannon has proved more than skilled when it comes to solving murders, so her attention is easily diverted. Shannon is now determined to discovervwho the body belonged to, how it ended up behind the wall, and even would like to identify the killer.
This book, Premeditated Mortar, does touch on some serious issues, including how terrible those suffering with mental health issues were treated in the past. With a total of eleven books so far in the series, Shannon often finds herself in a pickle, but always comes out the victor.
Many thanks to Berkley and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 8, 2023
Shannon has hammered herself into the middle of a mess this time! Once again our favorite contractor is on the hunt for who is trying to sabotage a work site before it becomes something more sinister and just when she thinks she is figuring it out, a body is found or maybe more than just one! You'll have to read to find out, but you definitely won't want to miss this one! This series has been a favorite for a longtime. It shows a strong woman in a predominantly male industry, not only doing a great job but being a wonderful leader in the environment. This one book brings to light the good that quality therapy and medication can do to those with mental health issues, but also the historical atrocities that were used against those who needed mental health in the past. Well done! I can't wait to see what mystery our fabulous sleuth gets involved with in the next book! FYI: If you like audiobooks, this one is available in audio as well!
December 12, 2020
PREMEDITATED MORTAR by Kate Carlisle is the eighth book in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series. It is the well-crafted cozy mystery centered round contractor Shannon Hammer and her renovation of the Gables, formerly the old state insane asylum, located at the edge Lighthouse Cove.
Shannon’s been contracted by, Jane Hennessey, her dear friend since first grade, to renovate the north wing of the Gables into the Hennessey Hotel complete with restaurant, bar and spa. They have worked together before when they restored Jane’s grandmother’s Victorian mansion into an elegant inn. Jane’s own mother was a resident of the Gables. She is determined to turn the place into something elegant, happy and fun to honor her mother and to help replace any lingering bad feelings about the place. With the success of her inn, she knows with Shannon’s expertise that it can be done. Going into it, they know this will be a lengthy project taking at least a year to complete.
After explaining to her boyfriend, MacKintyre “Mac” Sulllivan - world-famous crime novelist and former Navy SEAL, about the history of Gables and showing him part of her new project, Mac is excited about taking Rachel Powers up on her offer of him becoming an investor in the Gables project. It also means that they would be talking about and sharing ideas on the project together, which thrills Shannon.
With exploring the history of the Gables and Shannon’s foreboding of troubles during construction, it was still a shock to see protestors during the ground breaking ceremony. Looks like the police would be involved in this renovation from day one.
With the finding of a brick wall sealing off part of the Gables, injuries inflicted upon Shannon from some unknown assailant and then the body of one of the protestors being found inside the Gables, was Shannon’s feelings of impending trouble coming true. Shannon is once again seen as the body magnet and is working to help the police so she can get back to her “normal” life of construction. Along the way, the relationship between Shannon and Mac, although smooth sailing and full of happiness, seems to be in a holding pattern making Shannon wondering whether there is a forever future in their path.
Who was behind the construction of the brick wall and what were they trying to conceal? Was the person that pushed her down the partially removed brick wall the same person? How were the protestors connected to the Gables? Why were they opposed to renovation and wanted to burn it down? Why would Dr. Fairchild, the Gable’s last chief physician and psychiatrist at the Gables, call a press conference and how is she involved in all of the happenings? Who exactly was the person they found dead behind the brick wall, how did he get there and how was he connected to the Gables? Will some of Jane’s memories of the Gables help in finding some answers? Will the Scooby-Doo game Mac and Shannon play be what leads them to more suspects and clues? Will Ricky, one of the protestors, hold a lot of the clues including his connection to the Gables? When a second body is found, will they find it connected to the first one?
Kate Carlisle writes a fabulous cozy mystery that will have your turning pages and playing the Scooby-Do game right along with Shannon and Mac while hoping for a happily ever after for this lovely couple. She manages to tease us with clues, puts our favorite contractor in danger and then protected by her hero, falling in love with some characters while feeling ill will towards others and leads us to a conclusion that is unexpected but makes totally perfect sense.
PREMEDITATED MORTAR is the type of book you look forward to, soak it in with glee and you can’t wait to share it with friends when you give that little sigh of “well done” on the last page. Although part of a series, it can most assuredly be read as a standalone book. I must warn you that after reading this one, you will be wanting to read not only other books in this series, but any book written by this amazing author. I definitely give it PREMEDITATED MORTAR 5+ STARS and highly recommend it to cozy lovers, those that enjoy a fabulously well-written book, or enjoy a book that leaves you happy and excited for the next book by this author.
Shannon’s been contracted by, Jane Hennessey, her dear friend since first grade, to renovate the north wing of the Gables into the Hennessey Hotel complete with restaurant, bar and spa. They have worked together before when they restored Jane’s grandmother’s Victorian mansion into an elegant inn. Jane’s own mother was a resident of the Gables. She is determined to turn the place into something elegant, happy and fun to honor her mother and to help replace any lingering bad feelings about the place. With the success of her inn, she knows with Shannon’s expertise that it can be done. Going into it, they know this will be a lengthy project taking at least a year to complete.
After explaining to her boyfriend, MacKintyre “Mac” Sulllivan - world-famous crime novelist and former Navy SEAL, about the history of Gables and showing him part of her new project, Mac is excited about taking Rachel Powers up on her offer of him becoming an investor in the Gables project. It also means that they would be talking about and sharing ideas on the project together, which thrills Shannon.
With exploring the history of the Gables and Shannon’s foreboding of troubles during construction, it was still a shock to see protestors during the ground breaking ceremony. Looks like the police would be involved in this renovation from day one.
With the finding of a brick wall sealing off part of the Gables, injuries inflicted upon Shannon from some unknown assailant and then the body of one of the protestors being found inside the Gables, was Shannon’s feelings of impending trouble coming true. Shannon is once again seen as the body magnet and is working to help the police so she can get back to her “normal” life of construction. Along the way, the relationship between Shannon and Mac, although smooth sailing and full of happiness, seems to be in a holding pattern making Shannon wondering whether there is a forever future in their path.
Who was behind the construction of the brick wall and what were they trying to conceal? Was the person that pushed her down the partially removed brick wall the same person? How were the protestors connected to the Gables? Why were they opposed to renovation and wanted to burn it down? Why would Dr. Fairchild, the Gable’s last chief physician and psychiatrist at the Gables, call a press conference and how is she involved in all of the happenings? Who exactly was the person they found dead behind the brick wall, how did he get there and how was he connected to the Gables? Will some of Jane’s memories of the Gables help in finding some answers? Will the Scooby-Doo game Mac and Shannon play be what leads them to more suspects and clues? Will Ricky, one of the protestors, hold a lot of the clues including his connection to the Gables? When a second body is found, will they find it connected to the first one?
Kate Carlisle writes a fabulous cozy mystery that will have your turning pages and playing the Scooby-Do game right along with Shannon and Mac while hoping for a happily ever after for this lovely couple. She manages to tease us with clues, puts our favorite contractor in danger and then protected by her hero, falling in love with some characters while feeling ill will towards others and leads us to a conclusion that is unexpected but makes totally perfect sense.
PREMEDITATED MORTAR is the type of book you look forward to, soak it in with glee and you can’t wait to share it with friends when you give that little sigh of “well done” on the last page. Although part of a series, it can most assuredly be read as a standalone book. I must warn you that after reading this one, you will be wanting to read not only other books in this series, but any book written by this amazing author. I definitely give it PREMEDITATED MORTAR 5+ STARS and highly recommend it to cozy lovers, those that enjoy a fabulously well-written book, or enjoy a book that leaves you happy and excited for the next book by this author.
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