Bad Blood: The Country Club Murders Book 20

The Country Club Murders #20

by Julie Mulhern

Prudence Davies is one of Ellison Jones' least favorite people on earth. She's vindictive. She's mean. And the two share a twisted history. Or, they did.

When Prudence is murdered after a very public spat, Ellison finds herself a murder suspect. Worse, the investigating officer has it in for Ellison's homicide detective husband.

Old secrets. Old lies. New drama.

Can Ellison find the killer or will the bad blood between her and Prudence mean the end to all she holds dear?

Genres: Mystery, Audiobook, Cozy Mystery, Historical Mystery, Fiction, Cozy, Mystery Thriller

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Julie Mulhern is the USA Today bestselling author of The Country Club Murders and the Poppy Fields Adventures.

She is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean--and she's got an active imagination. Truth is--she's an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.

Reviews

[Maria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series so much and I’m sure I’m not the only one that is a little sad that Prudence will no longer be part of the series; as terrible as she is made out to be, her sparring with Ellison was always fun to read. She did have it coming, though. This series is my absolutely favorite and there’s many reasons why - the well-developed characters, the humor, the depiction of life in the 70s, the intriguing mysteries – it really does have it all. While I enjoyed this one as much as the others, especially with Anarchy being on the other end of the investigation this time, this story was so much shorter than the others, and the ending seemed some somewhat abrupt but it still was a satisfying visit to Kansas City an I can’t wait for the next.

[Loretta TheMoodyRedhead · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellis Did Not Find the Body... This Time

This is another 5 star in my opinion! If you like the 1970's, dry humor, and a good cozy mystery, you'll love this series. And if you do like Mulhern's style of writing, check out her other series - The Poppy Fields Adventure books.

As for this read, Ellis is arrested after being accused of murder of a person she had just gotten into a snit with. This time Ellis didn't find the body; however, according to local law enforcement, that doesn't mean she isn't guilty of the crime.

If you've been following this series you know Ellis wouldn't ever kill anyone even if it is a person she really despises. Since her husband is the local detective he is taken off the case. This roadblock won't stop him from clearing Ellis's name! Ellis also pitches in so she can be proclaimed innocent. Heck, even her mother attempts to help... after she thoroughly admonishes Ellis for being involved in another homicide case.

Will Ellis be able to clear her name or will she be left writing letters for communication from prison?

I picked this book up and didn't put it down until I consumed every word. It's always a 70's adventure when Ellis is involved. Hopefully the next book will have more Aggie in it because I really like her too.

Next on my To Read is Book 25 from Cindy Bell's Chocolate Centered Cozy Mystery series: "Birthday Cake and Betrayal" published only 2 days ago on Aug 26! See you in my next review!

[Kathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give this series 10 stars, I would. Love the characters, love the dialogue, love the mystery…..I love everything about the country club murders. Thank you Julie Mulhern .

[Louise · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favourite cozy mystery series. Another fun addition to the series.

[Rosemary Standeven · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book, another Country Club murder – but no, Ellison did not FIND the body, instead she is accused of having murdered the body. And as it is the body of Ellison’s nemesis – the horse-to.othed harpy that is Prudence – it may not be so far-fetched (except we all know Ellison finds corpses, she doesn’t create them). Besides, Ellison would have to wait in line – EVERYBODY hates Prudence.
Anarchy is pulled of the case (obviously), but vows to clear her name and bring the killer to justice.
Unfortunately, Ellison’s gun is found next to Prudence, and the cop in charge of the enquiry really has it in for Ellison and Anarchy.
Fortunately, all Ellison’s friends rally round, including Hunter Taft acting as her lawyer.
But what about the family?
Hunter Taft to Ellison:

“Frances will probably have Morrison’s [cop in charge] badge over this. When push comes to shove, she’s in your corner.” Push had definitely come to shove. “She’ll be so outraged that someone has accused her daughter of murder, she won’t have the bandwidth to be mad at you.” He was trying to cheer me up, but he was seriously underestimating Mother. She could be furious with multiple people at once.”

Well, it turns out, that for once, Frances is fully supportive of Ellison, and even praises her during a phone call – and praises Anarchy too!!! Is this the Frances Walford we have come to love (fear!) so much?
There is a major twist – that I doubt anyone will see coming – when the real killer is revealed. It is someone who has well hidden their complete lack of empathy, humanity and serious psychopathic tendencies.
Elsewhere, Libba makes a serious decision regarding Charlie and Aggie’s Bundt Cake makes an appearance.
With Prudence now gone, Ellison needs a new bête noire. I can hardly wait for the next instalment.
Highly recommended as always.

[Alix · Rating 5 out of 5]

Had a blast reading this! I particularly loved this one because it was the first time (I'm pretty sure) that Ellison was the main suspect for a murder since the first book. I also can't believe it took this long for someone to murder Prudence lol. As always, this was lot of fun to read. I adore this world and all the characters. I enjoyed seeing Ellison having to deal, in her own repressed WASPy way, with the possibility of a trial.

I'm so excited that Libba finally said yes!! I'm hoping the next book will her the reveal of her big secret and wedding.

[Jess · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just like spending time with these characters, in this world. I liked the spin of Ellison being accused of murder in a real way and how upsetting that would be for Anarchy to not really be able to help her. Excited for Libba's wedding!!

[Traci Barrera · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved. Loved. LOVED. My favorite of the series so far! I wished this one was longer but it was still great!

[Liz · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, just a blast to read--though I wasn't expecting it to end at 75%. Still, loved everything with Anarchy and Ellison, as well as the kids. And the slight twist of Ellison not finding the body, at least not until the second one happened was fun.

Also, it was nice to see a slightly different cast of characters but still the usual, er, suspects, too. Excited Libba finally accepted the proposal; can't wait to see how that plays out in the next book!

[Corinne’s Chapter Chatter · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you love low-stakes chaos with a side of charm, this cozy might be calling your name.

This was a cute cozy mystery that definitely gives Finley Donovan vibes with its low stakes and light humor throughout. This was my first read from this author and series—apparently this is book twenty!—but it was still super easy to jump right in. I will say it meanders a bit and gets sluggish in the middle before ramping up into a frenetic final stretch where everything happens at once. I enjoyed it overall, but I do wish the pacing had been a little more balanced.

I listened to the audiobook, narrated by Callie Beaulieu, and she did a fantastic job. Her delivery fit the main character perfectly, and the snark in her tone landed without ever feeling overdone. The production itself was clean and easy on the ears.

If you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery, this one might hit the sweet spot. It can absolutely be read as a standalone, but there’s clearly a running thread from earlier installments—and the author does a great job balancing that history while still giving this book its own identity.

A cozy comfort read with quirks, charm, and just enough mystery to keep you turning pages.

I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Tantor Media via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.

How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.

⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.

[Elaine C. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prudence Davies is not Ellison's favorite person. After all, she'd had an ongoing affair with Ellison's husband before he died. So when Prudence turns up dead after a very public fight with Ellison at the Country Club, Ellison becomes the number 1 suspect, especially since it was her gun that was used!!! Anarchy will have to use all of his skills to get his wife out of jail, and it doesn't help that the police commissioner has a bone to pick with Anarchy. Their backs up against the wall - still won't get them down.

[Laura Prindable · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a cute, fun mystery this is! Ellison is a hoot! This is #20 in The Country Club Murder Series.

4 stars

Many thanks to Net Galley and Tantor Media for an audio ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Gail · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another winner in this series.

[marita lazarus · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this series and the trip back to the 70s (I was in elementary school) such a delight Good mystery and colorful characters - below is my review

Wonderfully written cozy set in the 1970s. I have read all the books in this series, and each mystery is unique and leaves you guessing as to who committed the murder(s).

In Bad Blood, Ellison's main rival, the odious Prudence is murdered and our favorite country club darling and super sleuth is the prime subject. She is arrested and released. With whispers behind her back, and her loyal family and friends, Elllison looks for proof of who murdered the husband stealing Prudence.

Another can't miss and can't put down mystery.

[Karen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a delightful series. Brain candy.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

The horsey-faced thorn in Ellison’s side is murdered after another very public spat. The bad blood between them runs deep and there are plenty of others who wanted Prudence dead. 1970s Kansas City, dry humor and sharp wit in a quick cozy mystery. Thanks to NetGalley and Tantor Media for advanced copies for a honest review.

[Ashdeclet Audiobook Addict · Rating 5 out of 5]

****This is a much much overdue
This book was so well done. I can't believe I didn't post about it sooner. I am not going to summarize the plot because it already does that above, but I will tell you this may be my favorite book in the series-

I have enjoyed this series from the very beginning. I think there are so many things that make it such an underrated series:
1. Cozy mystery, historical setting that is NOT the early 1900s/late 1800s.
2. A strong female character that equally loves those around her, as well as rejects those who are hypocritical.
3. Shows what destructive can do, and that there are men that do give a shit about their wives.
4. Is witty without being too over the top or cutesy.
5. Is an authentic cozy mystery, which seems rare.

Please, do yourself a favor, start this series.

Thank you to Netgalley and Tantor Media for the advanced audio copy of this book. All my opinions are my own.

[Alicia M. Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series keeps holding its own. I don't know how the author does it, but every book keeps me invested. The characters are well drawn. The plotlines are compelling. I can't wait for the next book to come out!

[Grace · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this spin on the mystery story with Ellison being the one accused of murder. I don't have too much else to say about this installment, but I'm glad that I'm still really enjoying this world.

[Alycia Bay · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this world. These books are cozy and keep me guessing always. I was so excited to dive into this one. It didn't disappoint.

[J Kromrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audio format.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC in audiobook format.

Julie Mulhern’s Bad Blood audiobook delivers a cozy mystery with sharp wit and layered tension, but its reliance on series familiarity and tonal shifts makes it uneven as a standalone listen.

🎧 The 20th entry - Bad Blood (The Country Club Murders,

In this installment, Ellison Jones finds herself entangled in yet another murder investigation when Prudence Davies, one of her least favorite people, is killed after a very public spat. Ellison becomes a suspect, while her homicide detective husband faces pressure from an antagonistic officer. The novel weaves old secrets, lies, and simmering rivalries into a narrative of suspicion and survival.

🎙️ Audiobook Performance

- Narrator: Callie Beaulieu’s narration is clear and professional, but her delivery struggles to balance the novel’s humor with its darker undertones.

The audiobook emphasizes the cozy mystery atmosphere, yet moments of menace feel softened by the lightness of the performance.

At just over five hours, the audiobook moves briskly, which suits the genre but occasionally sacrifices depth in character development.

✨ Strengths

Fans of the Country Club Murders will appreciate how Mulhern continues Ellison’s arc with consistency and charm.

Mulhern’s trademark humor and sharp exchanges keep the story lively, even in tense moments.

The blend of domestic settings and social rivalries creates a believable backdrop for the mystery.

⚖️ Limitations

As the 20th book in the series, Bad Blood leans heavily on prior knowledge of Ellison’s relationships and history. New listeners will feel disoriented.

The audiobook struggles to reconcile cozy humor with the gravity of murder, leading to uneven emotional impact.

Secondary characters, including Prudence, are painted broadly, which limits the complexity of the mystery’s stakes.

Overall, Bad Blood succeeds as a light, witty continuation of a beloved cozy mystery series, but as an audiobook it risks feeling too breezy for the weight of its subject matter. Beaulieu’s narration enhances accessibility but doesn’t always capture the darker edges of Mulhern’s plot.

For longtime fans, it’s a satisfying addition; for newcomers, such as myself, it feels like entering mid-conversation without the full context. For example, the main character's husband is named Anarchy, and I kept getting confused, thinking Anarchy was one of the dogs, and that Max, one of the dogs, was the husband. Clever names are nice, however the name Anarchy is so outside normal realms that it is distracting and confusing for newcomers. Also confusing is the main character's habit of discussing issues with her Mr. Coffee machine - there were numerous times when I had no idea if she was talking to a human or her coffee maker.

[Darla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bad (bad) blood (blood)
The woman was born to lie
Makes promises she can't keep
With the wink of an eye

Bad (bad) blood (blood)
Brother, you've been deceived
It's bound to change your mind
About all you believe ~ Neil Sedaka

When you see that book title, the Taylor Swift song might pop into your head. Nope! Think back to 1975 and a hit by Neil Sedaka with Elton John on backup vocals. (He's in the parenthesis, BTW.)

It has to be that song, because this series by Julie Mulhern is set in the 70's. This is the 20th installment and it may be the best one yet.

Here's why:

👩Prudence Davies, otherwise known for her horsey face and kinky shenanigans with Ellison's first husband, has been found dead in a sand trap on the country club course. This is so symmetrical for the series since Ellison found her first dead body in the pool at the same club in Book 1. Ellison did not find this one, but she is the #1 suspect.
👭There is a character named Darla in this one! Even though she is in jail when Ellison first meets her, I still love finding my name in fiction. It hardly ever happens!
3️⃣I found another Georgina in a book. My third in a week. Have I just not noticed Georginas in the past? What is happening?! It's uncanny.
🕵️‍♀️With Ellison as a suspect, Anarchy is not allowed to officially investigate. That means he and Ellison are working on the case behind the scenes to get her name cleared. They make a great team.
🏬Ellison makes some fascinating cultural references about things like Paco Rabanne, running loops around Loose Park, and shopping in Prairie Village. My favorite was her shout out to The Jones Store. They were my first employer in Kansas City and by then they had seven stores with a flagship in Prairie Village.

Have you been thinking about dipping into this series, but haven't started yet? Now is a great time to start with The Deep End. They are easy breezy reads and a fun way to travel back to the 1970's.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

I believe this is the first I've read of this author, but, it was different. Very different!

A Country Club. A bunch of men and women who are wealthy and a bit snobby. And then of course there's always one who has to get on everybody's nerves! That would be Prudence. She is NOT a nice person. As a matter of fact, she is the complete opposite. AND, she caused Ellison and her ex to get divorced. And of course she brings this up, right in the middle of the dining room at the Country Club... and makes a big stink about it. So absolutely everyone hears her!

Ellison is not quiet. And she is not going to allow Prudence to get away with this. So she gives it right back to her... in the way of very unkind words. Of course, Ellison needs to be very careful, because it seems that her Mother has eyes and ears... everywhere. So, as soon as something happens, she is on the phone with her daughter... grilling her!!!

Unfortunately for Ellison, Prudence turns up dead on the greens of the Country Club... and the last anyone saw of her, she was having an all out fight with Ellison.

Ellison's new husband, Anarchy, (yes, you read that right...) is a top rate detective. But, he cannot get involved in this case as it involves his wife!! And soon she is taken away to jail! =0

It's funny. It's terse. It's a bit far fetched. But again, it is funny! And, with a few chilling twists.

4 bold stars for me!!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟

#BadBlood by @JulieMulhern and narrated nicely by @CallieBeaulieu.

If this sounds like something you’d like, please keep your eyes open for it!

*** This one has NOT BEEN RELEASED YET, please look 👀 for it tomorrow, 12/02/25!! ***

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #TantorMedia for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Julie Howard · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed this book. Somehow this is my first adventure into Ellison's world, don't ask me how with this being book 20 and especially as I have read a number of books from the authors other series. Anyway despite not knowing the characters or back stories, I was soon caught up in the mystery and falling in love with the characters. The little boy even tugged on a few of my heart strings, he was so sweet and this will not be my last adventure with this family. Normally I wish the author would stick to investigating the case but the home life drama was so well woven into the story that I found it engaging and cared about what happened to the characters. The mystery was good and I had no clue who the killer was but it unfolded at a good pace and with humour, all of which kept me entertained and wanting the next book.

After Prudence affair with Ellison's ex husband, the last thing she wants to hear from the horrid woman is that she is going to spill all his secrets unless she gets what she wants. It's not the first time Prudence has tried that trick but it is the last, as her dead body is found on the golf course. Ellison is the prime suspect after her public argument and the fact her gun was the murder weapon. With her new husband, the homicide detective taken off the case, she has no choice but to find the killer herself. To start with she has to find out who knew about her gun and had a bit enough reason to hate Prudence. Neither list is short but to protect herself and the ones she loves, Ellison will have to find out.

I really liked the narrator and before it was over I was looking to see what other books she has read because this won't be the last time I hear her amazing talented voice.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.

[Micky Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book needs to come with a warning! Can cause spontaneous bouts of laughter that will have you disrupting people around you!!! I absolutely love this series and it is definitely on my absolutely must listen list! The narration is outstanding as the narrator takes the authors extremely well written book and brings it even further to life. Each character has a distinct voice so that you always know who is talking. The emotions especially the humor come through even more strongly in the audiobooks! Extremely well-crafted mysteries that will keep you guessing and turning pages or listening well past bedtime to see what happens next. I do highly recommend starting with book one and reading them in order as each book builds the characters' backstories as well as hours more of fun reading. I am not typically a "historical" (using that term really loosely here) fan as I like things set-in present-day settings, however, this book is set in the 1970's in the Country Club/Plaza area of KC, MO. As a child in the 70's, we used to head to the plaza area several times per year so revisiting the area in these books bring back fun memories and the "Oh, I remember that place" moments as landmark businesses and locations are mentioned. I cannot stress enough how well the books are written, but it is the humor and wit that keeps me coming back for more, more, more!!! My only regret is that I finish the books too fast then have to go back to impatiently waiting for the next book in the series!

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s my first “Country Club Murder” in this now 20-book series. Despite my being late to the party, I had no trouble following the story or characters. (Except I thought at first that Anarchy was the dog’s name….) some of the quirkiness is left over from previous entries, including how Ellison, the MFC, comes to own a building in a commercial district where Madame K has an S&M club. In this novel she just does. Also unlike the first 19 books, it is implied that this time instead of finding / tripping over / happening upon a dead body, she is suspected of murdering said dead body. She and Prudence had a public argument poolside the day before Prudence’s dead body was discovered on the golf course. That’s a good twist and great fodder for the rumor mill at the country club. Anyway, in this cozy mystery Ellison will find the real killer and life will return to normal — although her very demanding mother reveals a softer side. Will it last? We’ll have to wait for book 21 to find out!
My thanks to the author, publisher, @TantorMedia, and #NetGalley for early access to the audiobook of #BadBlood for review purposes. Publication date: 2 December 2025.

[Erica Moore · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

My first "cozy" read was a nice low-stakes murder mystery; the 20th book in the Country Club Murder series. In this entry, Ellison's evil arch nemesis, Prudence, turns up dead and Ellison's monogrammed gun is found at the crime scene. She and her homicide detective husband, Anarchy Jones, rush to find the real killer. Along the way, she uncovers just how much is hidden right under the surface in the lives of her friends and neighbors. The pacing really picked up at the end of the book (which is really saying something, given the audiobook is little more than 5 hours long.

Unlike some series where you can't just jump in anywhere, this story stood on its own, while clearly continuing Ellison's ongoing hijinks. I liked this story enough to go back and start the series at the beginning.

Thanks NetGalley & Tantor Media | Tantor Audio for the advance listening copy.

[Beth · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is probably a three star book: it’s much shorter than I expected, it’s rushed and takes place over very few days, important plot and character elements are mentioned and barely fleshed out - but I like it a lot. This ends at about 77% of the ebook and the rest is a long preview of Mulhern’s new series, and this feels like a hasty denouement.

There are some bad typos - “To plebeian. To ethnic” (instead of “too”, arghhhh) - “beat the wrap” (instead of “beat the rap”, somehow even worse than to/too) - “bury the lead” (instead of “lede”). I can’t muster the energy for a good WHERE IS YOUR… Are there any copy editors left anymore? Will self publishing ever improve in this regard? Can I overlook annoying typos in a book I like? Probably not, and probably not, and definitely. If this is the last book, I’m going to miss this world.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Having never read this series before, I had no clue this was taking place in the 1970s until the mention of Jerry Lewis’ telethon. That brought so many memories flooding back and was a pleasant surprise.

I loved the snarkiness of the Country Club members and their interactions. And surprisingly, this mystery was brilliant. I had no clue of who the culprit was until right before the big reveal.

Callie Beaulieu is an excellent choice as narrator and adds so much to the story.

Even though “Bad Blood” is considered a cozy, do not assume this is a silly mystery, Julie Mulhern knows how to write a solid mystery. Well done.

I received this ARC from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.

[Laurie J. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ellison always seems to be the one finding bodies. In a Bad Blood, she doesn’t find the body, but ends up accused of the killing. She is charged and spends some time in jail! It’s tense. And she has to reassure Beau that she won’t be going to jail, as he’s worried she’ll go away. Fortunately, we’re reminded she’s fierce and not to get on her bad side!

Ellison fights hard to uncover whodunit with the help of Anarchy (who can’t handle the case at work), her lawyer, and friends. Discovering info wherever possible, she narrows in on the killer, but not before she stumbles over another body.

I love the time I spend in ~1975 with this family. Julie Mulhern brings this time alive in every way.

This book is hard to drop into without knowing the characters introduced in #1. I recommend starting at the beginning and savoring them all.