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Daisy Dunlop Mystery #1
Lost Cause
Daisy Dunlop loves a challenge but heir hunting is supposed to be easy. She can deal with anything her new job throws at her, except the bullets, bombs and working with P.I. Solomon Liffey. Her husband's best friend is supposed to be looking out for her, but when she uncovers Solomon’s biggest secret he's the one who needs protection.
292 pages, Paperback
First published July 1, 2014
305 people are currently reading
817 people want to read
About the author
J.L. Simpson
5 books25 followersDiminutive English rose, JL Simpson, was stolen away by a giant nomad and replanted in a southern land filled with gum trees and kangaroos. She quickly adapted to her new life, learning the meaning of G’day and mate whilst steadfastly refusing all attempts to convert her to Vegemite.
A hunger for exploration awoken by her new surroundings, she traversed the land seeking knowledge and adventure. Despite the trials and tribulations along the way she stood fearless in the face of calamity and embarrassment. With a joyous laugh, and a boundless supply of scones with cream and jam, she stood tall, all fifty-eight inches of her, and shrugged off the humiliation of falling in a freezer and reversing into her own mailbox.
Always ready to accept a challenge she embraced the double headed beast of accounting and taxation and wrestled the monster into submission, placating it with spreadsheets and double entry bookkeeping.
Her desire to experience the world led her to embrace a life of crime. Seeking the higher knowledge shared by the great minds of the detective world, she took to worshipping at the altars of the Crime and Investigation channel and Sherlock.
A dive into family history and heir hunting soon followed, where she discovered not every family has roots back to English nobility but they all have their fair share of ne’er-do-wells.
She loves sharing tales about the land of her birth along with the unexpected twists of fate that can befall all of us. Holding on to a steadfast belief every obstacle can be overcome, and that you can be more than you ever expected, she spends her moments of solitude creating adventures where mystery and mayhem collide.
A hunger for exploration awoken by her new surroundings, she traversed the land seeking knowledge and adventure. Despite the trials and tribulations along the way she stood fearless in the face of calamity and embarrassment. With a joyous laugh, and a boundless supply of scones with cream and jam, she stood tall, all fifty-eight inches of her, and shrugged off the humiliation of falling in a freezer and reversing into her own mailbox.
Always ready to accept a challenge she embraced the double headed beast of accounting and taxation and wrestled the monster into submission, placating it with spreadsheets and double entry bookkeeping.
Her desire to experience the world led her to embrace a life of crime. Seeking the higher knowledge shared by the great minds of the detective world, she took to worshipping at the altars of the Crime and Investigation channel and Sherlock.
A dive into family history and heir hunting soon followed, where she discovered not every family has roots back to English nobility but they all have their fair share of ne’er-do-wells.
She loves sharing tales about the land of her birth along with the unexpected twists of fate that can befall all of us. Holding on to a steadfast belief every obstacle can be overcome, and that you can be more than you ever expected, she spends her moments of solitude creating adventures where mystery and mayhem collide.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
August 1, 2014
Rundown: The protagonist, Daisy, is a British "housewife", thirty-something with a teenage son at home, and a husband, and all the usual stuff. Apparently she has trouble holding down jobs and wants excitement, so her dear husband, Paul, sends her off to his buddy Solomon, a private investigator, where she tries her hand at "heir finding". Paul's vain hope is that she'll learn detection is boring, quit, and go back to a quiet office job, or something like that. Of course, she gets pretty quickly into hot water and thrives.
The banter between Daisy and Solomon is enjoyable -- not a romance or anything, just a curious smart lady paired with an anti-social guy (and his sort of mysterious background) who don't really hit it off that well but she's persistent and plucky. And the plot is interesting with components like a missing heir, insurance fraud, mob links, a vulnerable pop star, and a guitar that once belonged to Jimi Hendrix...
The prose style is really facile, and highly readable, and all that; it sweeps along at a smooth, brisk pace. This is an important point: there isn't any "clunk" factor here, and that's kind of rare, especially in what is apparently a first novel.
At the moment, I'm only 87% of the way through the book, but I've already decided it's such good stuff that I wanted to tell you early because I have a stage coach to catch. And I can't imagine this author would bungle the last 13%. It's such a tasty bisquit I would have devoured it in full already but I've had another couple of kettles on the hob at the same time. And I'll also put the author on my List.
In reviews of indy- and small-press work, I traditionally comment upon simple amenities that should go without saying in Big House books, but I feel compelled to say them explicitly. First, this book is well-edited and the copy-editing is also excellent: I've seen only one typo so far, so this is definitely silver rodent award material.
This book came to my attention only because I saw that someone else had read it and I couldn't resist checking it out. So I followed the link and dug up the preview, which sounded so nice and pleasant that I decided to read it anyway. I noticed the author had posted an offer for free review copies a few days before that, so I went ahead and asked. That can't hurt, right? And she sent one. Other than that, I don't know the author and haven't corresponded, yada yada, so this is about as honest a review as they come. I liked it, and I'd read another one by this author, any time.
But I do feel actually like a minor schmuck because I really would have bought it if she hadn't passed me the freebie, and now I feel like I owe her a cup of weak American coffee to make up for lost royalties. ;-)
P.S. Finished it. Good show.
The banter between Daisy and Solomon is enjoyable -- not a romance or anything, just a curious smart lady paired with an anti-social guy (and his sort of mysterious background) who don't really hit it off that well but she's persistent and plucky. And the plot is interesting with components like a missing heir, insurance fraud, mob links, a vulnerable pop star, and a guitar that once belonged to Jimi Hendrix...
The prose style is really facile, and highly readable, and all that; it sweeps along at a smooth, brisk pace. This is an important point: there isn't any "clunk" factor here, and that's kind of rare, especially in what is apparently a first novel.
At the moment, I'm only 87% of the way through the book, but I've already decided it's such good stuff that I wanted to tell you early because I have a stage coach to catch. And I can't imagine this author would bungle the last 13%. It's such a tasty bisquit I would have devoured it in full already but I've had another couple of kettles on the hob at the same time. And I'll also put the author on my List.
In reviews of indy- and small-press work, I traditionally comment upon simple amenities that should go without saying in Big House books, but I feel compelled to say them explicitly. First, this book is well-edited and the copy-editing is also excellent: I've seen only one typo so far, so this is definitely silver rodent award material.
This book came to my attention only because I saw that someone else had read it and I couldn't resist checking it out. So I followed the link and dug up the preview, which sounded so nice and pleasant that I decided to read it anyway. I noticed the author had posted an offer for free review copies a few days before that, so I went ahead and asked. That can't hurt, right? And she sent one. Other than that, I don't know the author and haven't corresponded, yada yada, so this is about as honest a review as they come. I liked it, and I'd read another one by this author, any time.
But I do feel actually like a minor schmuck because I really would have bought it if she hadn't passed me the freebie, and now I feel like I owe her a cup of weak American coffee to make up for lost royalties. ;-)
P.S. Finished it. Good show.
July 31, 2014
Meet Daisy Dunlop of JL Simpson’s Lost Cause: She’s Bridget Jones Meets Miss Marple
Daisy Dunlop loves a challenge but heir hunting is supposed to be easy. She can deal with anything her new job throws at her, except the bullets, bombs and working with P.I. Solomon Liffey. Her husband’s best friend is supposed to be looking out for her, but when she uncovers Solomon’s biggest secret he’s the one who needs protection.
You basically have two choices with this review:
1. Go straight to Amazon or even better (cheaper!) go to Taliesin Publishing and buy this hilarious, effervescent mystery. (NOTE: make sure you have plenty of time to read it without interruption because you will not want to stop.)
2. Waste your time reading the rest of this review and then (see #1).
JL Simpson’s debut thriller defies categorization. It’s a character driven cozy mystery with a delightfully quirky amateur detective. Only instead of an old lady solving crimes over her knitting, shit gets blown up. And sexy, mysterious private investigators haunted by the dark demons of their painful past do NOT hook up with the beautiful heroine because (even after years of marriage and a teenage son), she’s deliriously in love with her handsome husband. Oh, and there’s at least one shooting that will leave you laughing.
Daisy Dunlop has had a little trouble finding just the right career. She’s already tried a number of the wrong ones, from barmaid, to secretary for an organized crime solicitor, to one shift at a fish-and-chip shop. (“Mr. Singh did say leaving the fat fryer on at the end of the shift was an easy mistake to make. And he got the insurance money so he didn’t need to sell the business to me after all.” ) Her husband Paul’s support for these ventures hasn’t exactly included assistance from his best friend—the tall, sexy, and cryptic Solomon.
But all that is behind her now, as Daisy embarks on her new profession of heir hunter. And who better to teach her than her husband’s best mate Solomon, who knows everybody, has the dirt on most of them, and lives a life of cryptic mystery? But Daisy’s heir hunt for a missing lord is soon tied into Solomon’s cases of insurance fraud and murder. As the bullets, bombs, and fists fly, both Paul and Solomon soon find reason to regret Daisy’s newest venture. (He had never signed up to be her babysitter. Daisy was a bleedin’ liability. If Paul wanted her to be safe he should never have let her out of the house. She attracted trouble like shit attracted flies.)
I’m completely delighted to give Lost Cause five out of five stars. Although confused (non-British) readers might find it a challenge to get into the swing of Daisy’s unique life, you’ll soon find yourself hiding in the bath with your Kindle and refusing to emerge until you’ve finished every word. Solving the mysteries doesn’t begin to be the only—or even main—reason to read Lost Cause. Other perfectly rational motives might include:
* Witty, non-romantic (if you don’t count a little bit of generic flirting) friendship developing between two attractive adults
* Quintessentially British stuff! Names (Dempster Blanchette!), speech (“He set a cracking pace”), respect for authority (“Mind you, even owning the gun was illegal in the UK. Taking it with her was probably a bad idea, but then most of the things she did were bad ideas.”), and the awesome crime-fighting properties of tea. (There was no way she could overcome his penetrating stare of evil before she’d had a cup of tea.)
* Loving, R-Rated relationship between two grownups, plus the chance to make their teenage son’s head explode (Sherman banged on the door. “I heard that, and I don’t need to know you’re busy. TMI, man. TMI. I was left on the doorstep by aliens, and you never do that sex thing. You go to bed to sleep. End of.”)
* And most of all Daisy Dunlop—strange dress sense, sparkling humor, uniquely quirky new style of amateur detective.
My only complaint about Lost Cause is that it ends way too soon. I want to know where Daisy’s next adventures will take her, how she’ll torment Solomon, and whether the pair will ever manage to actually get paid for one of their cases. (Sequel, please!)
**I received this book for free from the publisher or author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
Daisy Dunlop loves a challenge but heir hunting is supposed to be easy. She can deal with anything her new job throws at her, except the bullets, bombs and working with P.I. Solomon Liffey. Her husband’s best friend is supposed to be looking out for her, but when she uncovers Solomon’s biggest secret he’s the one who needs protection.
You basically have two choices with this review:
1. Go straight to Amazon or even better (cheaper!) go to Taliesin Publishing and buy this hilarious, effervescent mystery. (NOTE: make sure you have plenty of time to read it without interruption because you will not want to stop.)
2. Waste your time reading the rest of this review and then (see #1).
JL Simpson’s debut thriller defies categorization. It’s a character driven cozy mystery with a delightfully quirky amateur detective. Only instead of an old lady solving crimes over her knitting, shit gets blown up. And sexy, mysterious private investigators haunted by the dark demons of their painful past do NOT hook up with the beautiful heroine because (even after years of marriage and a teenage son), she’s deliriously in love with her handsome husband. Oh, and there’s at least one shooting that will leave you laughing.
Daisy Dunlop has had a little trouble finding just the right career. She’s already tried a number of the wrong ones, from barmaid, to secretary for an organized crime solicitor, to one shift at a fish-and-chip shop. (“Mr. Singh did say leaving the fat fryer on at the end of the shift was an easy mistake to make. And he got the insurance money so he didn’t need to sell the business to me after all.” ) Her husband Paul’s support for these ventures hasn’t exactly included assistance from his best friend—the tall, sexy, and cryptic Solomon.
"Lucky Solomon was there to rescue you, pool cue or not.”
“I didn’t need him to hit the guy. I could have handled it without the stitches, and the hours in police custody. I also didn’t need to be handcuffed to our kitchen sink by Solomon until I agreed to give up my dream job.”
But all that is behind her now, as Daisy embarks on her new profession of heir hunter. And who better to teach her than her husband’s best mate Solomon, who knows everybody, has the dirt on most of them, and lives a life of cryptic mystery? But Daisy’s heir hunt for a missing lord is soon tied into Solomon’s cases of insurance fraud and murder. As the bullets, bombs, and fists fly, both Paul and Solomon soon find reason to regret Daisy’s newest venture. (He had never signed up to be her babysitter. Daisy was a bleedin’ liability. If Paul wanted her to be safe he should never have let her out of the house. She attracted trouble like shit attracted flies.)
I’m completely delighted to give Lost Cause five out of five stars. Although confused (non-British) readers might find it a challenge to get into the swing of Daisy’s unique life, you’ll soon find yourself hiding in the bath with your Kindle and refusing to emerge until you’ve finished every word. Solving the mysteries doesn’t begin to be the only—or even main—reason to read Lost Cause. Other perfectly rational motives might include:
* Witty, non-romantic (if you don’t count a little bit of generic flirting) friendship developing between two attractive adults
* Quintessentially British stuff! Names (Dempster Blanchette!), speech (“He set a cracking pace”), respect for authority (“Mind you, even owning the gun was illegal in the UK. Taking it with her was probably a bad idea, but then most of the things she did were bad ideas.”), and the awesome crime-fighting properties of tea. (There was no way she could overcome his penetrating stare of evil before she’d had a cup of tea.)
* Loving, R-Rated relationship between two grownups, plus the chance to make their teenage son’s head explode (Sherman banged on the door. “I heard that, and I don’t need to know you’re busy. TMI, man. TMI. I was left on the doorstep by aliens, and you never do that sex thing. You go to bed to sleep. End of.”)
* And most of all Daisy Dunlop—strange dress sense, sparkling humor, uniquely quirky new style of amateur detective.
My only complaint about Lost Cause is that it ends way too soon. I want to know where Daisy’s next adventures will take her, how she’ll torment Solomon, and whether the pair will ever manage to actually get paid for one of their cases. (Sequel, please!)
**I received this book for free from the publisher or author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.**
May 3, 2015
4.5 stars
I was given a copy by the author in return for an honest review
Daisy Dunlop is a heroine like no other, at least none that I’ve been introduced to. She’s very happily married to Paul, smart, sassy and acts on impulse which very often lands her in hot water. After Daisy’s several doomed career attempts Paul enlists the very reluctant help of his best friend, Solomon.
Now Daisy has a new job opportunity which Paul hopes will keep her out of trouble. With her eclectic taste in clothes and red spiky heels she hasn’t quite got the hang of dressing suitably as she finds out in short order. Heir hunting quickly morphs into something else entirely and Daisy manages to get herself and her new boss into all kinds of troublesome situations. Combined with Solomon’s investigation into insurance fraud they uncover much more than either of them could have imagined. As the plot unravels, the mysterious and handsome Solomon and the madcap that is daisy deal with dead bodies, shootings and bombs.
It’s non-stop action all the way in J.L. Simpson’s witty and very amusing debut tale of mystery solving. The interaction between Daisy and Solomon is extremely entertaining as he struggles unsuccessfully to keep her out of danger. Daisy is her own woman though, and woe betide any man who thinks otherwise.
It’s a really nice twist to have the passionate romance between our heroine and her husband, who are madly in love and have a teenage son. A son who can’t cope with the thought of his parents having sex…
And there are laughs galore as Daisy and Solomon’s rocky relationship develops into a deepening platonic friendship and eventually, as Daisy pieces together his big secret Solomon can drop his guard…sort of.
I was given a copy by the author in return for an honest review
Daisy Dunlop is a heroine like no other, at least none that I’ve been introduced to. She’s very happily married to Paul, smart, sassy and acts on impulse which very often lands her in hot water. After Daisy’s several doomed career attempts Paul enlists the very reluctant help of his best friend, Solomon.
Now Daisy has a new job opportunity which Paul hopes will keep her out of trouble. With her eclectic taste in clothes and red spiky heels she hasn’t quite got the hang of dressing suitably as she finds out in short order. Heir hunting quickly morphs into something else entirely and Daisy manages to get herself and her new boss into all kinds of troublesome situations. Combined with Solomon’s investigation into insurance fraud they uncover much more than either of them could have imagined. As the plot unravels, the mysterious and handsome Solomon and the madcap that is daisy deal with dead bodies, shootings and bombs.
It’s non-stop action all the way in J.L. Simpson’s witty and very amusing debut tale of mystery solving. The interaction between Daisy and Solomon is extremely entertaining as he struggles unsuccessfully to keep her out of danger. Daisy is her own woman though, and woe betide any man who thinks otherwise.
It’s a really nice twist to have the passionate romance between our heroine and her husband, who are madly in love and have a teenage son. A son who can’t cope with the thought of his parents having sex…
And there are laughs galore as Daisy and Solomon’s rocky relationship develops into a deepening platonic friendship and eventually, as Daisy pieces together his big secret Solomon can drop his guard…sort of.
December 17, 2016
A madcap mystery that reminded me very much of early Evanovich--Stephanie Plum--except that the protagonist is happily married and it's set in England. Daisy Dunlop, mother of teenage boy and happily married to Paul, has failed spectacularly in all her career choices. Now she's to work with (be babysat by) her husband's best friend, Solomon, a PI. All works out but not without large doses of sex (Daisy and husband) and profanity and crazy antics. Quirky series character; plot twists in mystery and relationship among characters; snappy, smart dialog, British slang, breezy style; humous, over the top playful tone.
October 29, 2014
**I was provided a copy of this ebook from the author for honest review**
I wish I had better news to report on this book. I wanted to love it - the description in the synopsis was fascinating. Unfortunately, the book just didn't live up to my expectations. First of all, I spent a vast amount of time googling what various British slang meant. I do understand that this book was based in Britain, but the slang was so heavy at times that it was practically in another language, from my non-British perspective. My next complaint is that the three main characters all pretty much shared the same personality. All three had the same quirky behaviorisms and dry wit. Don't get me wrong, there were some funny one-liners and jokes, but other than the gender specific jokes, any one of them could have been saying said punchlines because they all basically had the same 'voice'. I also didn't care for the way the three characters all flirted shamelessly with one another, delving into the land of inappropriate, BUT (at least two of them) were so uptight about the others' flirting - and so insistent that they would never be interested in each other- it was almost sad. Finally, I just found this book to be very predictable. It's supposed to be a mystery but I figured out almost every single 'mystery' very early on. The book has a decent plot-line, but progresses slowly. I felt I was just waiting for something to happen, even to just see what is described in the cover blurb. The author does do a good job with her descriptions, leaving it easy for you to picture locations and appearances, and the book is very well edited. It definitely was NOT bad, it just could have been better.
I wish I had better news to report on this book. I wanted to love it - the description in the synopsis was fascinating. Unfortunately, the book just didn't live up to my expectations. First of all, I spent a vast amount of time googling what various British slang meant. I do understand that this book was based in Britain, but the slang was so heavy at times that it was practically in another language, from my non-British perspective. My next complaint is that the three main characters all pretty much shared the same personality. All three had the same quirky behaviorisms and dry wit. Don't get me wrong, there were some funny one-liners and jokes, but other than the gender specific jokes, any one of them could have been saying said punchlines because they all basically had the same 'voice'. I also didn't care for the way the three characters all flirted shamelessly with one another, delving into the land of inappropriate, BUT (at least two of them) were so uptight about the others' flirting - and so insistent that they would never be interested in each other- it was almost sad. Finally, I just found this book to be very predictable. It's supposed to be a mystery but I figured out almost every single 'mystery' very early on. The book has a decent plot-line, but progresses slowly. I felt I was just waiting for something to happen, even to just see what is described in the cover blurb. The author does do a good job with her descriptions, leaving it easy for you to picture locations and appearances, and the book is very well edited. It definitely was NOT bad, it just could have been better.
July 23, 2014
I received an electronic copy from the author to review, but in no way does that have an influence on my opinions and views.
I felt like the first chapters were rocky with me. My interpretation of Daisy was rather weak, but as the plot line progresses you can definitely see how Daisy becomes a stronger character.
Once I got passed chapter two I was drawn into the action. No one could get me to stop reading until I had finished this novel. I would be literally walking around with my face in my Kindle trying to absorb every word. I was constantly on the edge of my seat after each chapter. The suspense and the friendship that grows between Daisy and Solomon immersed me into the story.
Oh my golly gumdrops!!!
Solomon melted my heart. He was so mysterious and guarded, which made my tear through the pages just to see what he was hiding. I had my theories, and then I got to the end to only have them ripped into tiny pieces when I read what he was actually hiding. I loved his protectiveness, and his whole sense of confidence. I wouldn't mind having my own Solomon in my life hahaha!
I recommend this book to all of you. This is a great novel that is filled to the brim with wit. I can guarantee you'll fall in love with Daisy, Solomon, and Daisy's husband. They all play major roles throughout the novel, and if one wasn't there then the novel would be a bust. I'm going to encourage you to get your hands on this novel, so I can have someone to swoon with over Solomon!
I felt like the first chapters were rocky with me. My interpretation of Daisy was rather weak, but as the plot line progresses you can definitely see how Daisy becomes a stronger character.
Once I got passed chapter two I was drawn into the action. No one could get me to stop reading until I had finished this novel. I would be literally walking around with my face in my Kindle trying to absorb every word. I was constantly on the edge of my seat after each chapter. The suspense and the friendship that grows between Daisy and Solomon immersed me into the story.
Oh my golly gumdrops!!!
Solomon melted my heart. He was so mysterious and guarded, which made my tear through the pages just to see what he was hiding. I had my theories, and then I got to the end to only have them ripped into tiny pieces when I read what he was actually hiding. I loved his protectiveness, and his whole sense of confidence. I wouldn't mind having my own Solomon in my life hahaha!
I recommend this book to all of you. This is a great novel that is filled to the brim with wit. I can guarantee you'll fall in love with Daisy, Solomon, and Daisy's husband. They all play major roles throughout the novel, and if one wasn't there then the novel would be a bust. I'm going to encourage you to get your hands on this novel, so I can have someone to swoon with over Solomon!
March 7, 2015
Lost Cause is the first in the Daisy Dunlop Mystery series. Daisy is a bored housewife she wants to work and get some excitement back in her life. Her husband, Paul, convinces his best friend, Solomon, to take her under his wing in his private investigator company hoping she will get bored quickly and quit. Solomon owes Paul a favour so he begrudgingly takes Daisy on. He figures she can’t get into too much trouble hunting down the heir to a recent inheritance. And so starts Daisy’s heir hunting career.
I loved Daisy; she was full of life and sassy. She didn’t mind using her feminine assets and flirtiness to get the information she needed. The relationship between Daisy and Solomon was a treat to follow as it slowly develops from an antagonistic feud to a more friendly ribbing towards the end of the novel.
It was fun to read a crime, suspense, thriller laced with comedy throughout. The different crimes being investigated intermingled and crossed over which kept you wondering what the outcome would be. The revelation at the end concerning Solomon was totally unexpected.
I’m looking forward to reading more in the Daisy Dunlop series.
My thanks to J L Simpson for my copy to read and review.
I loved Daisy; she was full of life and sassy. She didn’t mind using her feminine assets and flirtiness to get the information she needed. The relationship between Daisy and Solomon was a treat to follow as it slowly develops from an antagonistic feud to a more friendly ribbing towards the end of the novel.
It was fun to read a crime, suspense, thriller laced with comedy throughout. The different crimes being investigated intermingled and crossed over which kept you wondering what the outcome would be. The revelation at the end concerning Solomon was totally unexpected.
I’m looking forward to reading more in the Daisy Dunlop series.
My thanks to J L Simpson for my copy to read and review.
July 17, 2014
This is the kind of book you could read nonstop. Witty, naughty, fast-paced, well-plotted.
Think of an R-rated British I Love Lucy with a whole tangle of mysteries—a missing heir, insurance fraud, a man with a secret, and murder—and you’ll get a sense of what you’re in for. Daisy is a colorful character. She’s smart, attractive, accident prone, inquisitive, and happily married to a man who wants to keep her out of trouble, though the job he finds for her does nothing of the sort. It was refreshing to read a book where the passionate romance is between husband and wife, parents of a teenager. The twists and turns of this story surprised me constantly. The contrast, conflict and repartee between Daisy and her employer Solomon kept me entertained. This is the only book I’ve ever read where a shot was fired that made me laugh out loud. It was a perfect punch line for the whole plot. When you get to it, you’ll know what I mean. I think this is the shortest review I’ve written, but with a plot like this, it’s hard to say more without spoilers. I’m hooked on Daisy Dunlop and look forward the next in the series.
Think of an R-rated British I Love Lucy with a whole tangle of mysteries—a missing heir, insurance fraud, a man with a secret, and murder—and you’ll get a sense of what you’re in for. Daisy is a colorful character. She’s smart, attractive, accident prone, inquisitive, and happily married to a man who wants to keep her out of trouble, though the job he finds for her does nothing of the sort. It was refreshing to read a book where the passionate romance is between husband and wife, parents of a teenager. The twists and turns of this story surprised me constantly. The contrast, conflict and repartee between Daisy and her employer Solomon kept me entertained. This is the only book I’ve ever read where a shot was fired that made me laugh out loud. It was a perfect punch line for the whole plot. When you get to it, you’ll know what I mean. I think this is the shortest review I’ve written, but with a plot like this, it’s hard to say more without spoilers. I’m hooked on Daisy Dunlop and look forward the next in the series.
December 3, 2023
This sounded super cute, but turned out to be very dull, as unfortunately, the author opted for pure telling instead of showing. I had to force myself to pay attention, hoping it’d pick up but … honestly, it was just painful.
My first read by this author … and my last, sadly.
Audio:
Absolutely terrible sound quality—why does the narrator sound like she’s in a tin can or something? There’s also a bit of static throughout. I’m not sure why anyone would find this to be acceptable and upload it for sale.
My first read by this author … and my last, sadly.
Audio:
Absolutely terrible sound quality—why does the narrator sound like she’s in a tin can or something? There’s also a bit of static throughout. I’m not sure why anyone would find this to be acceptable and upload it for sale.
October 7, 2014
Lost Cause is a fast-moving read centred around a most likeable heroine: Daisy Dunlop. Daisy is spontaneous, irreverent and, above all, fun. Her love-hate relationship with her partner/minder Solomon is never dull and their exchanges always made me smile. Lost Cause is one of those rare books that I was sorry to see end, probably because it was so approachable. I can't wait for the next instalment, but I guess I'll have to.
March 27, 2017
"Comical capers"
Great fun to read. A real page-turner with ditzy Daisy Dunlop leading the way. Never short of humour, and with Solomon providing a different breed of partner to the norm, this never sinks to the run-of-the-mill plot line. I've not read any of the other books in this series - yet, but this first outing encourages me to dive in and follow Daisy wherever she goes.
Great fun to read. A real page-turner with ditzy Daisy Dunlop leading the way. Never short of humour, and with Solomon providing a different breed of partner to the norm, this never sinks to the run-of-the-mill plot line. I've not read any of the other books in this series - yet, but this first outing encourages me to dive in and follow Daisy wherever she goes.
April 23, 2018
The book was entertaining--the story and characters were vivid and compelling--but the poor word choice and grammar kept tripping me up.
September 30, 2014
Heir hunting — How hard could it be? Daisy Dunlop thought it would be ‘easy peasy’.
“… she couldn’t imagine any need to shoot people when she was about to tell them they had inherited their dearly departed’s worldly goods.”
Her husband, Paul, called in a favor from his best friend, Irish P.I. Solomon Liffey, to help her with her first case. She needed to locate the missing Lord Tobias Wareham, heir to the estate of the late Duke of Mardon. Both Paul and Solomon think this is just another amateur pursuit that she will soon get out of her system. So Solomon puts up with watching out for her. Daisy tries to shake Solomon every chance she gets and Solomon seems to magically find her every time – which works out well considering she manages to attract trouble repeatedly. She begins to discover that Solomon has some secrets of his own. And danger? Oh, yes, there’s plenty of that too.
This is Ms. Simpson’s debut cozy mystery and the first in the Daisy Dunlop Mystery series set in Southampton on the south coast of England. There was a lot of humor in the novel with the bickering between Daisy and Solomon. However, I didn’t feel the characters were fully fleshed out. Therefore, I didn’t feel a big concern for any of the characters. Daisy’s flirting was abundant and I found it a bit off-putting. She was a happily married woman with a teen son. If Solomon was bothered by how men were attracted to her flirtatious attitude, why was her husband so nonchalant? I do like that she ‘grows into’ the job and finds that she’s rather good at it. I rated Lost Cause at 3 out of 5.
http://www.fictionzeal.com/lost-cause...
“… she couldn’t imagine any need to shoot people when she was about to tell them they had inherited their dearly departed’s worldly goods.”
Her husband, Paul, called in a favor from his best friend, Irish P.I. Solomon Liffey, to help her with her first case. She needed to locate the missing Lord Tobias Wareham, heir to the estate of the late Duke of Mardon. Both Paul and Solomon think this is just another amateur pursuit that she will soon get out of her system. So Solomon puts up with watching out for her. Daisy tries to shake Solomon every chance she gets and Solomon seems to magically find her every time – which works out well considering she manages to attract trouble repeatedly. She begins to discover that Solomon has some secrets of his own. And danger? Oh, yes, there’s plenty of that too.
This is Ms. Simpson’s debut cozy mystery and the first in the Daisy Dunlop Mystery series set in Southampton on the south coast of England. There was a lot of humor in the novel with the bickering between Daisy and Solomon. However, I didn’t feel the characters were fully fleshed out. Therefore, I didn’t feel a big concern for any of the characters. Daisy’s flirting was abundant and I found it a bit off-putting. She was a happily married woman with a teen son. If Solomon was bothered by how men were attracted to her flirtatious attitude, why was her husband so nonchalant? I do like that she ‘grows into’ the job and finds that she’s rather good at it. I rated Lost Cause at 3 out of 5.
http://www.fictionzeal.com/lost-cause...
January 7, 2015
I received this paperback through the First Reads giveaway.
This novel is fast paced, has lots of action and an interesting story line. The portrayal of Daisy’s character is sometimes confusing. Although she is the mother of a 14 year old and enjoys a stable, loving relationship with her son’s father, she does not demonstrate the insight, maturity, ability to consider consequences or deal with frustration that would be necessary to sustain these relationships. In fact, her thought processes and self-absorbed behaviour is more in keeping with an adolescent than with a woman with the life experience attributed to her character.
Daisy’s husband is portrayed as being besotted with her, supportive, protective and tolerant. However, Daisy’s frequent references to activities her husband will and will not let her do give the impression that he is controlling and treats her like a child.
As the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Paul is also besotted with Daisy and devoted to her, why he would be so is not well developed in the story.
Although it is generally hard to like Daisy, her hearty appetite, disdain for healthy food options and passion for high heels are endearing.
The use of profanities and descriptive accounts of Daisy’s sexual encounters with her husband seem somewhat at odds with the otherwise ‘cosy’ feel of this novel, less would certainly have more impact in these aspects of the novel.
Despite the minor issues described above, this was a fun novel and certainly worth reading.
This novel is fast paced, has lots of action and an interesting story line. The portrayal of Daisy’s character is sometimes confusing. Although she is the mother of a 14 year old and enjoys a stable, loving relationship with her son’s father, she does not demonstrate the insight, maturity, ability to consider consequences or deal with frustration that would be necessary to sustain these relationships. In fact, her thought processes and self-absorbed behaviour is more in keeping with an adolescent than with a woman with the life experience attributed to her character.
Daisy’s husband is portrayed as being besotted with her, supportive, protective and tolerant. However, Daisy’s frequent references to activities her husband will and will not let her do give the impression that he is controlling and treats her like a child.
As the novel progresses, it becomes clear that Paul is also besotted with Daisy and devoted to her, why he would be so is not well developed in the story.
Although it is generally hard to like Daisy, her hearty appetite, disdain for healthy food options and passion for high heels are endearing.
The use of profanities and descriptive accounts of Daisy’s sexual encounters with her husband seem somewhat at odds with the otherwise ‘cosy’ feel of this novel, less would certainly have more impact in these aspects of the novel.
Despite the minor issues described above, this was a fun novel and certainly worth reading.
September 29, 2014
Meet Daisy who thinks heir hunting will be easy and is learning the ropes from her husbands best buddy Solomon. Daisy can't seem to stay out of trouble and Solomon is the sexy PI who is constantly rescuing her.
The characters in this story are great. They make you laugh. Daisy is determined to get more information on Solomon because no really knows him. I love how he has a mysterious air around him and it keeps you guessing what secret he is holding. There are moments in this book that will make you laugh so hard. Like the time Solomon is telling his buddy Paul to shoot him in the arse and just get it over with and Daisy walks in.
There is also plenty of action, suspense, and danger in this novel. One investigation seems to be linked to another and it will keep you guessing who is behind the whole thing. In the end when Solomon needs help Daisy is there.
It was great to see a non romance between the two leading characters. Daisy loves her husband Paul very much and at first Solomon and her tolerate each other. As the story progresses they learn to respect another.
Grab this book because these two detectives will lead you into danger along with making you laugh out loud.
I received a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.
The characters in this story are great. They make you laugh. Daisy is determined to get more information on Solomon because no really knows him. I love how he has a mysterious air around him and it keeps you guessing what secret he is holding. There are moments in this book that will make you laugh so hard. Like the time Solomon is telling his buddy Paul to shoot him in the arse and just get it over with and Daisy walks in.
There is also plenty of action, suspense, and danger in this novel. One investigation seems to be linked to another and it will keep you guessing who is behind the whole thing. In the end when Solomon needs help Daisy is there.
It was great to see a non romance between the two leading characters. Daisy loves her husband Paul very much and at first Solomon and her tolerate each other. As the story progresses they learn to respect another.
Grab this book because these two detectives will lead you into danger along with making you laugh out loud.
I received a gift copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 3, 2015
Kindle Copy for Review
Daisy Dunlop believes that her new career as a heir hunter is perfect for her.
So her husband Paul asks his best friend Irish PI Solomon Liffey to help her out things go quickly out of hand. Keeping her safe due to her husband wishes as he handcuffs her to the kitchen sink, they barely speak to each other.
Solomon does not want to babysitter and thinks she is a liability. He thinks she has no sense of danger as she flirts easily and she tends to stick her nose into people’s business including his.
Trying to keep her out of trouble, he makes her look for a missing lord but it turns out more to the story. Her investigation turns out more than meets the eye when she becomes a target and Solomon goes missing. Daisy not only has to find a missing lord but rescue Solomon.
Daisy is an interesting character who does not do what she should as she makes for an interesting read.
Daisy Dunlop believes that her new career as a heir hunter is perfect for her.
So her husband Paul asks his best friend Irish PI Solomon Liffey to help her out things go quickly out of hand. Keeping her safe due to her husband wishes as he handcuffs her to the kitchen sink, they barely speak to each other.
Solomon does not want to babysitter and thinks she is a liability. He thinks she has no sense of danger as she flirts easily and she tends to stick her nose into people’s business including his.
Trying to keep her out of trouble, he makes her look for a missing lord but it turns out more to the story. Her investigation turns out more than meets the eye when she becomes a target and Solomon goes missing. Daisy not only has to find a missing lord but rescue Solomon.
Daisy is an interesting character who does not do what she should as she makes for an interesting read.
May 19, 2015
★★★★★
A murder /mystery with a marvellous funny side.
Solomon is a private investigator. His best friend and brother in arms, from their time in the English army, has called in a favour. His wife wants to be a heir hunter, Solomon is supposed to show her how boring that will be, and keep her safe. That will prove to be easier said than done.
Daisy is determined to prove she is up to the challenge of her new job. Dealing with the obnoxious, and secretive Solomon will be the worst part of it. Her task is to find a missing Lord who willing disappeared years ago. Solomon's case is for an insurance company who has had some strange claims lately.
Who's case is it that has turned more dangerous than was expected.
The lead characters are so much fun. I love both of them. This is NOT a romance. But it is an exciting and entertaining read. I look forward to more.
A murder /mystery with a marvellous funny side.
Solomon is a private investigator. His best friend and brother in arms, from their time in the English army, has called in a favour. His wife wants to be a heir hunter, Solomon is supposed to show her how boring that will be, and keep her safe. That will prove to be easier said than done.
Daisy is determined to prove she is up to the challenge of her new job. Dealing with the obnoxious, and secretive Solomon will be the worst part of it. Her task is to find a missing Lord who willing disappeared years ago. Solomon's case is for an insurance company who has had some strange claims lately.
Who's case is it that has turned more dangerous than was expected.
The lead characters are so much fun. I love both of them. This is NOT a romance. But it is an exciting and entertaining read. I look forward to more.
August 21, 2022
What an absolute corker of a read! One of the funniest books I've read this year with an exciting whodunit adding to the thrill.
I literally chewed through this book in one huge bite - I couldn't put it down. The sarcastic witty duels between Daisy and Solomon were hilarious, and two interesting mysteries that entwined into a single adventurous, exciting plot that was new and refreshing.
The characters were well rounded but were left with enough of an air of mystery so that you couldn't wait to find out more about them.
Highly recommended - I shall be downloading the following two books in the series as quickly as I can.
I literally chewed through this book in one huge bite - I couldn't put it down. The sarcastic witty duels between Daisy and Solomon were hilarious, and two interesting mysteries that entwined into a single adventurous, exciting plot that was new and refreshing.
The characters were well rounded but were left with enough of an air of mystery so that you couldn't wait to find out more about them.
Highly recommended - I shall be downloading the following two books in the series as quickly as I can.
December 7, 2014
Daisy Dunlop is a bored English housewife. Paul her husband convinces Solomon his best friend to hire her to work at his P.I company. Thinking she'll get bored and quit. Since Solomon owes Paul a favor he agrees and gives her the job of finding the Heir to a recent inheritance. And so starts Daisies career.It was a fun read. Crime, suspense, thriller story with comedy through out. The different crimes being investigated crossed over and at times intermingled which kept you wondering what would happen next. A truly enjoyable read i look forward to reading more books by J.L Simpson
December 29, 2016
The audiobook narrator was a perfect fit for this story. I enjoyed the cosy mystery/amateur detective/light and fun feel. It was refreshing to read a story that focussed on the mystery and didn't get complicated by a romance thread. I kept expecting it to turn romantic, which would have disappointed me as the heroine claimed to be happily married. Thankfully, she remained happily married to the end, though got herself caught up in all manner of problems on the way.
June 13, 2015
Accurate rating 3.5*
Pretty good.
Pretty good.
May 27, 2017
This is hard for me. On the one hand, there were some funny scenes, and I liked that it was at least a little different from many of the other mysteries I have read.
The issue I had over and over was feeling like things were just a little off. For example: Several times I was reading and i felt like there was a sentence missing, or a logical step that i didn't see. I usually am able to put together mysteries really well, but I had a number of, "what just happened" moments. Have you ever looked at a proof in math, and there seems to be a step or two missing? That was how I felt.
One other thing that bothered me was what seemed like inconsistency in language. The book takes place in the UK, and therefore uses the normal things I expect in a UK edition: bonnet instead of hood, arse instead of ass, etc. But then it used some terms that I would associate more with an American version, like calling it a sweater instead of a jumper, or referring to somplace difficult to enter as "Fort Knox" instead of something more British. I know it may be minor to most readers, but it did bother me.
I haven't decided yet whether I will keep going with the series. I have the next book, but I think I am going to wait for a bit.
The issue I had over and over was feeling like things were just a little off. For example: Several times I was reading and i felt like there was a sentence missing, or a logical step that i didn't see. I usually am able to put together mysteries really well, but I had a number of, "what just happened" moments. Have you ever looked at a proof in math, and there seems to be a step or two missing? That was how I felt.
One other thing that bothered me was what seemed like inconsistency in language. The book takes place in the UK, and therefore uses the normal things I expect in a UK edition: bonnet instead of hood, arse instead of ass, etc. But then it used some terms that I would associate more with an American version, like calling it a sweater instead of a jumper, or referring to somplace difficult to enter as "Fort Knox" instead of something more British. I know it may be minor to most readers, but it did bother me.
I haven't decided yet whether I will keep going with the series. I have the next book, but I think I am going to wait for a bit.
July 29, 2024
Loved the book. I actually listened to the audio version and the narrator was so good! I loved her as Daisy. There was so much happening, but the story was easy to follow and the characters were very likable, especially Daisy and Solomon. I loved their banter and their love hate relationship. It was such a fun read. I highly recommend this book if you're in the mood for a little mystery and a little laugh. I loved the secret revealed at the end. Had me guessing throughout the book but did not guess that one. I'm not giving anything away, but it will be leaving you wanting to read the next book in the series. However, this story does end and Daisy's tactics to her investigating is hilarious.
May 26, 2017
A must read
I thought this might just be a light read, but I was very pleased to find an intriguing and humorous story! And romance! Though not between the leading lady and handsome Irish (swoon) PI, but between Daisy and her husband Paul, as Solomon (hot Irish PI) is Pauls best friend- plus the reason that Daisy (to Solomons dismay) is working as his secretary. I really enjoyed watching Daisy get her feet wet in the heir finding part of PI work, though she didn't know that's not all it would be. Can't wait to read Lost & Found, the next in the series!
I thought this might just be a light read, but I was very pleased to find an intriguing and humorous story! And romance! Though not between the leading lady and handsome Irish (swoon) PI, but between Daisy and her husband Paul, as Solomon (hot Irish PI) is Pauls best friend- plus the reason that Daisy (to Solomons dismay) is working as his secretary. I really enjoyed watching Daisy get her feet wet in the heir finding part of PI work, though she didn't know that's not all it would be. Can't wait to read Lost & Found, the next in the series!
May 22, 2018
4.5 stars
Daisy is an in your face character you can't help fall in love with. She is set to work with her husband's best friend, Solomon - a P.I. The Irish git as she calls him. Theirs is an antagonistic relationship but their mutual love for Paul has them get along. Solomon is mysterious and Daisy tries to figure him out. Between the humour and fast pace, you can't help but enjoy this story. The second half of the book flew past and I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Disclaimer: While I personally know the author, this doesn't affect the star rating.
Daisy is an in your face character you can't help fall in love with. She is set to work with her husband's best friend, Solomon - a P.I. The Irish git as she calls him. Theirs is an antagonistic relationship but their mutual love for Paul has them get along. Solomon is mysterious and Daisy tries to figure him out. Between the humour and fast pace, you can't help but enjoy this story. The second half of the book flew past and I am looking forward to reading more of this series.
Disclaimer: While I personally know the author, this doesn't affect the star rating.
November 26, 2023
Audiobook: This was my first experience with JL Simpson's work, and it was entertaining. Daisy Dunlop was training with her husband's best friend to become a private investigator. When a case went awry, Daisy's training took some wild turns. I enjoyed the crazy twists. The characters were diverting. I enjoyed the amusing incidents and snappy dialogue. I'm looking forward to the next book in the series. Mary Phillips' narration was good, and her performance enhanced my enjoyment of the story. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
December 20, 2023
What an enjoyable read/listen! Great characters. Funny. Flirty. Faithful. Grumpy. Mysterious. Even violent. A cozy mystery you won't want to put down. A sassy, flirty Daisy who is faithful to her husband. An attractive grumpy PI, Soloman. Love their banter.
I was gifted an Audible version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narrator presents this book wonderfully. A British accent easily understood. Told with emotion. Even her male voices work for me. 5 stars for her as well.
I was gifted an Audible version of this book from the author through Story Origin. The narrator presents this book wonderfully. A British accent easily understood. Told with emotion. Even her male voices work for me. 5 stars for her as well.
March 19, 2018
I found this an enjoyable read. Unlike a previous reviewer, I did not find the British slang difficult to follow. I liked Daisy and Solomon's bantering, but I did find the flirting/sexual tension to go a bit overboard for someone that is so in love with her husband. Even though Daisy tends to be a trouble magnet, she is very intelligent. It is nice to see she isn't just another damsel in distress. I am anxious to read the next book in the series.
November 21, 2019
I confess I only made it through one chapter because it was far grittier than I prefer in a mystery. Lots of swearing, an attempted sexual assault and bragging about a previous sexual assault. Oddly there were also repeated comments about the desirability of handguns even though handguns are illegal in the UK. It might be a perfectly good book, but I prefer gentler mysteries that focus on the mystery.
November 28, 2018
I really enjoyed this book. It was nice for a change to have a leading lady that is married and not torn between which man to end up with or getting over a break up, leading to more romance than mystery. The love/hate relationship between Daisy and Solomon had me laughing out loud. I am now off to buy it as an audio book.
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