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You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’
Not yet published
Expected 6 Jan 26
Introducing Adam Parrall—retired drummer, vinyl record store owner . . . and amateur sleuth!
Adam Parrall’s wild days as a drummer in a rock band are far behind him. Now semi-retired and running a record store in the sleepy town of Cordoba on the mid-California coast, life is considerably calmer, with pleasant surprises such as winning a lifetime achievement award (which Adam learns, depressingly, is intended for deceased artists).
There’s plenty of life left in Adam yet, though sadly the same can’t be said of Righteous Brother tribute artist Barry Haddon, whose dead body is discovered by Adam outside a nightclub. Suddenly Adam discovers an exciting new hobby—sleuthing! Is a knife-wielding robber terrorizing the locals responsible for Barry’s murder? As panic and confusion sweep through the town, Adam can’t rule anything—or anyone—out. Unfortunately, his meddling may mean that he’ll qualify for that lifetime achievement award sooner than he thought!
The first in an irresistibly charming cozy mystery series featuring a retired drummer seeking to recapture the excitement of his rock band heyday by solving crime. A page-turning must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman and J.M. Hall!
Adam Parrall’s wild days as a drummer in a rock band are far behind him. Now semi-retired and running a record store in the sleepy town of Cordoba on the mid-California coast, life is considerably calmer, with pleasant surprises such as winning a lifetime achievement award (which Adam learns, depressingly, is intended for deceased artists).
There’s plenty of life left in Adam yet, though sadly the same can’t be said of Righteous Brother tribute artist Barry Haddon, whose dead body is discovered by Adam outside a nightclub. Suddenly Adam discovers an exciting new hobby—sleuthing! Is a knife-wielding robber terrorizing the locals responsible for Barry’s murder? As panic and confusion sweep through the town, Adam can’t rule anything—or anyone—out. Unfortunately, his meddling may mean that he’ll qualify for that lifetime achievement award sooner than he thought!
The first in an irresistibly charming cozy mystery series featuring a retired drummer seeking to recapture the excitement of his rock band heyday by solving crime. A page-turning must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman and J.M. Hall!
251 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication January 6, 2026
39 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
December 8, 2025
Severn House provided an early galley for review.
This, the first in a new mystery series, was likened to Andrew Cartmel's Vinyl Detective series as well as the work of Richard Osman. Since I love both those authors, giving this one a shot was a no-brainer.
For me, the book started off slow as we are introduced to the town, the residents, and Adam and his wife Shawna (who serves as the story's two narrative viewpoints). It takes a good bit before Barry is found dead. I would have preferred the start to be right in the action, with a scene that grabbed me by the throat rather than just teased me with a feather.
As for the characters themselves, lots of typical small town residents with no major surprises. Like other cozy mysteries, there's mentions of cooking (seems to be a thing). While the music elements are there, I would have liked to see them played up a bit more.
I am willing to give a sequel a shot, if the author decides to write one.
This, the first in a new mystery series, was likened to Andrew Cartmel's Vinyl Detective series as well as the work of Richard Osman. Since I love both those authors, giving this one a shot was a no-brainer.
For me, the book started off slow as we are introduced to the town, the residents, and Adam and his wife Shawna (who serves as the story's two narrative viewpoints). It takes a good bit before Barry is found dead. I would have preferred the start to be right in the action, with a scene that grabbed me by the throat rather than just teased me with a feather.
As for the characters themselves, lots of typical small town residents with no major surprises. Like other cozy mysteries, there's mentions of cooking (seems to be a thing). While the music elements are there, I would have liked to see them played up a bit more.
I am willing to give a sequel a shot, if the author decides to write one.
December 22, 2025
I’ve encountered my share of cozy mysteries set in charming small towns, so I thought I knew what to expect when I picked up You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ by Nicholas George. A murder mystery centered around a record shop owner sounded like the perfect blend of nostalgia and intrigue, but the execution left me with mixed feelings about what could have been a truly memorable story.
The book eases into its narrative slowly, almost leisurely, as we’re introduced to the coastal town and its various residents. We spend considerable time with Adam Parrall, the record shop owner, and his wife Shawna, who alternate as our narrators throughout the story. This dual perspective offers interesting glimpses into their relationship and how they each view their community differently. The problem is that it takes quite a while before Barry’s body is discovered and the actual mystery begins. I found myself wishing George had structured the opening differently—perhaps starting with a scene that immediately drew me into the tension, something that grabbed hold and didn’t let go. Instead, the beginning felt like it was gently nudging me with possibilities rather than pulling me in with urgency.
The cast of characters populating this seaside town hits familiar notes without many surprises. There’s the requisite collection of small-town personalities you’d expect in this genre, each with their quirks and histories. Following what seems to be a cozy mystery tradition, there are mentions of recipes and cooking scattered throughout, which added warmth but didn’t particularly distinguish this story from others in the category. What caught my attention was the music angle—after all, a record shop mystery should make the most of its setting—but I kept waiting for George to really lean into that element. The music feels present but somehow distant, like background accompaniment rather than a central theme woven into the story’s fabric.
George excels at crafting atmosphere in those opening chapters. The sensory details come through vividly—you can almost feel the ocean breeze drifting through the streets, hear the floorboards creaking in the old shop, picture the vinyl records spinning endlessly in their grooves. It’s the kind of setting that invites you to settle in with something warm to drink and simply exist in that space for a while. Adam Parrall himself comes across as authentic, a character who feels lived-in rather than constructed. His deep connection to the music world, his knowledge of albums and artists, adds a layer of genuine nostalgia that works well. There’s real affection in how George writes about music, even if he doesn’t explore it as deeply as the premise suggests he might.
Once the mystery machinery starts turning, though, something shifts. The investigation follows a path that feels well-worn, hitting beats I recognized from countless other mysteries. I pieced together who was responsible for Barry’s death well before the story revealed it, which drained some of the suspense from the proceedings. The dialogue occasionally relies on familiar archetypes—the neighbor who always seems to know everyone’s business, the friend whose eccentricities conveniently point toward clues, the perfectly timed revelation that moves the plot forward. None of it feels poorly written, exactly, but it doesn’t surprise either. The music element, which seemed so promising as a distinctive feature, never fully realizes its potential. There are references to songs and artists, certainly, and Adam’s passion for vinyl comes through, but I kept hoping George would dig deeper into what these records represent, how they connect to memory and emotion, how they might even intersect with the mystery itself in meaningful ways. That depth never quite materializes.
That said, I don’t want to suggest this was an unpleasant experience. It wasn’t. You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is the literary equivalent of comfort—easy to digest, warm, and undemanding. If you’re seeking something gentle and straightforward, something that won’t require intense concentration or emotional investment, this absolutely delivers. It’s like putting on a familiar old record that might skip occasionally but still brings a smile because of the memories attached to it. George writes with obvious care for his characters and setting, and that warmth permeates the story even when the plot doesn’t venture into unexpected territory.
For readers who like:
Fans of the Charmed Pie Shoppe mysteries who want a music-themed variation, readers who enjoyed the Hannah Swensen series and appreciate small-town dynamics, those who liked High Fidelity but prefer their music stories with a murder mystery twist, anyone who gravitates toward Ellery Adams’ Book Retreat mysteries and wants something similarly cozy, and people who appreciate the gentle pacing of Lorna Barrett’s Booktown Mystery series.
Final Verdict
Nicholas George has crafted a pleasant, atmospheric mystery that delivers comfort and familiarity rather than innovation. You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ succeeds at creating a warm, inviting world you’ll enjoy visiting, even if the mystery itself doesn’t break new ground. The slow build and predictable resolution might frustrate readers seeking edge-of-your-seat suspense, but for those wanting something gentle and easy to follow—like an old vinyl record that’s been played too many times but still holds its charm—this hits the right notes. The music element remains the story’s biggest missed opportunity, leaving you wondering what could have been if George had truly made it sing. Still, there’s genuine affection in these pages, and sometimes that’s enough to make a book worth your time.
Grateful to NetGalley, Severn House, and Nicholas George for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
The book eases into its narrative slowly, almost leisurely, as we’re introduced to the coastal town and its various residents. We spend considerable time with Adam Parrall, the record shop owner, and his wife Shawna, who alternate as our narrators throughout the story. This dual perspective offers interesting glimpses into their relationship and how they each view their community differently. The problem is that it takes quite a while before Barry’s body is discovered and the actual mystery begins. I found myself wishing George had structured the opening differently—perhaps starting with a scene that immediately drew me into the tension, something that grabbed hold and didn’t let go. Instead, the beginning felt like it was gently nudging me with possibilities rather than pulling me in with urgency.
The cast of characters populating this seaside town hits familiar notes without many surprises. There’s the requisite collection of small-town personalities you’d expect in this genre, each with their quirks and histories. Following what seems to be a cozy mystery tradition, there are mentions of recipes and cooking scattered throughout, which added warmth but didn’t particularly distinguish this story from others in the category. What caught my attention was the music angle—after all, a record shop mystery should make the most of its setting—but I kept waiting for George to really lean into that element. The music feels present but somehow distant, like background accompaniment rather than a central theme woven into the story’s fabric.
George excels at crafting atmosphere in those opening chapters. The sensory details come through vividly—you can almost feel the ocean breeze drifting through the streets, hear the floorboards creaking in the old shop, picture the vinyl records spinning endlessly in their grooves. It’s the kind of setting that invites you to settle in with something warm to drink and simply exist in that space for a while. Adam Parrall himself comes across as authentic, a character who feels lived-in rather than constructed. His deep connection to the music world, his knowledge of albums and artists, adds a layer of genuine nostalgia that works well. There’s real affection in how George writes about music, even if he doesn’t explore it as deeply as the premise suggests he might.
Once the mystery machinery starts turning, though, something shifts. The investigation follows a path that feels well-worn, hitting beats I recognized from countless other mysteries. I pieced together who was responsible for Barry’s death well before the story revealed it, which drained some of the suspense from the proceedings. The dialogue occasionally relies on familiar archetypes—the neighbor who always seems to know everyone’s business, the friend whose eccentricities conveniently point toward clues, the perfectly timed revelation that moves the plot forward. None of it feels poorly written, exactly, but it doesn’t surprise either. The music element, which seemed so promising as a distinctive feature, never fully realizes its potential. There are references to songs and artists, certainly, and Adam’s passion for vinyl comes through, but I kept hoping George would dig deeper into what these records represent, how they connect to memory and emotion, how they might even intersect with the mystery itself in meaningful ways. That depth never quite materializes.
That said, I don’t want to suggest this was an unpleasant experience. It wasn’t. You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is the literary equivalent of comfort—easy to digest, warm, and undemanding. If you’re seeking something gentle and straightforward, something that won’t require intense concentration or emotional investment, this absolutely delivers. It’s like putting on a familiar old record that might skip occasionally but still brings a smile because of the memories attached to it. George writes with obvious care for his characters and setting, and that warmth permeates the story even when the plot doesn’t venture into unexpected territory.
For readers who like:
Fans of the Charmed Pie Shoppe mysteries who want a music-themed variation, readers who enjoyed the Hannah Swensen series and appreciate small-town dynamics, those who liked High Fidelity but prefer their music stories with a murder mystery twist, anyone who gravitates toward Ellery Adams’ Book Retreat mysteries and wants something similarly cozy, and people who appreciate the gentle pacing of Lorna Barrett’s Booktown Mystery series.
Final Verdict
Nicholas George has crafted a pleasant, atmospheric mystery that delivers comfort and familiarity rather than innovation. You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ succeeds at creating a warm, inviting world you’ll enjoy visiting, even if the mystery itself doesn’t break new ground. The slow build and predictable resolution might frustrate readers seeking edge-of-your-seat suspense, but for those wanting something gentle and easy to follow—like an old vinyl record that’s been played too many times but still holds its charm—this hits the right notes. The music element remains the story’s biggest missed opportunity, leaving you wondering what could have been if George had truly made it sing. Still, there’s genuine affection in these pages, and sometimes that’s enough to make a book worth your time.
Grateful to NetGalley, Severn House, and Nicholas George for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this story in exchange for an honest review.
November 16, 2025
Rather a leisurely pace but the characters, banter, and music references kept my attention. Adam Parrall and wife Shawna make an interesting, likable pair. Former rock stars, now retired, they seem content to live quietly in the small town of Cordoba. Well matched in temperament and ambitions, they both may crave a bit more excitement after days of their rock'n'roll glory but, well, they're also happy. But, hmm, when the opportunity to perform again is thrust on them by circumstances, Shawna, in particular, has lingering doubts. Then the murder of Righteous Brothers tribute singer Barry Haddon happens as they wait to see his most recent appearance and Adam is the one to find the body. They're pulled into an unexpected role as amateur sleuths. Well, mostly Adam. He's the one to embrace the rush of being part of something new albeit Shawna finds herself pulled in via, no lie, her cooking class. Shawna needs to keep her day job as a realtor, I think. Not being a serious cook myself, I chuckled at her inept efforts, gotta admit.
Along the way, you'll meet family and friends of both our duo and the victim. Let's just say, they're an, uh, interesting, quirky bunch. Could one of them be a killer? Like Barry's wife? And, why do so many knives keep popping up? Who is their mysterious new neighbor? I don't want to give away more of the plot but will say it involves, let's see, prepping a house for sale, a robber the local press has dubbed the Blade Runner, lots of rock'n'roll mentions, even The Archies, Adam's odd award nomination, a rookie cop with untried theories, music promotion, nostalgia, and red herrings galore. Lots of quirky characters along with the importance of making life choices. And, more.
Bottom line, despite the slow pace, I enjoyed the book and will be looking for the next. I liked the characters, even some of the less likable ones had reasons to root for them, even the surly teenager who wanted to be a drummer. Wonder if Adam will regret offering drumming lessons? I'd also like to know more about the goings on in the maybe deceptively sedate Cordoba. Here's to both Adam's radio show and record shop doing a booming business and Shawna's realtor efforts being equally successful. Oh, that doesn't mean I don't want to virtually see them on stage again, even if Shawna reminds us that age means the back and legs aren't as ready to rock as her heart might be. Thanks #SevernHouse for the early introduction to this quirky but delightful pair of rock'n'roll amateur sleuths. It was fun to be in their shoes virtually for a bit.
Along the way, you'll meet family and friends of both our duo and the victim. Let's just say, they're an, uh, interesting, quirky bunch. Could one of them be a killer? Like Barry's wife? And, why do so many knives keep popping up? Who is their mysterious new neighbor? I don't want to give away more of the plot but will say it involves, let's see, prepping a house for sale, a robber the local press has dubbed the Blade Runner, lots of rock'n'roll mentions, even The Archies, Adam's odd award nomination, a rookie cop with untried theories, music promotion, nostalgia, and red herrings galore. Lots of quirky characters along with the importance of making life choices. And, more.
Bottom line, despite the slow pace, I enjoyed the book and will be looking for the next. I liked the characters, even some of the less likable ones had reasons to root for them, even the surly teenager who wanted to be a drummer. Wonder if Adam will regret offering drumming lessons? I'd also like to know more about the goings on in the maybe deceptively sedate Cordoba. Here's to both Adam's radio show and record shop doing a booming business and Shawna's realtor efforts being equally successful. Oh, that doesn't mean I don't want to virtually see them on stage again, even if Shawna reminds us that age means the back and legs aren't as ready to rock as her heart might be. Thanks #SevernHouse for the early introduction to this quirky but delightful pair of rock'n'roll amateur sleuths. It was fun to be in their shoes virtually for a bit.
November 25, 2025
📚You've Lost That Livin' Feelin'
✍🏻Nicholas George
Blurb:
Introducing Adam Parrall—retired drummer, vinyl record store owner . . . and amateur sleuth!
Adam Parrall’s wild days as a drummer in a rock band are far behind him. Now semi-retired and running a record store in the sleepy town of Cordoba on the mid-California coast, life is considerably calmer, with pleasant surprises such as winning a lifetime achievement award (which Adam learns, depressingly, is intended for deceased artists).
There’s plenty of life left in Adam yet, though sadly the same can’t be said of Righteous Brother tribute artist Barry Haddon, whose dead body is discovered by Adam outside a nightclub. Suddenly Adam discovers an exciting new hobby—sleuthing! Is a knife-wielding robber terrorizing the locals responsible for Barry’s murder? As panic and confusion sweep through the town, Adam can’t rule anything—or anyone—out. Unfortunately, his meddling may mean that he’ll qualify for that lifetime achievement award sooner than he thought!
The first in an irresistibly charming cozy mystery series featuring a retired drummer seeking to recapture the excitement of his rock band heyday by solving crime. A page-turning must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman and J.M. Hall!.
My Thoughts:
The first few chapters are great at building atmosphere — the sea breeze, the creaky shop, the records spinning in the background. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up with a coffee and stay awhile. The main character, Adam Parrall, feels genuine, and his connection to the music world adds a nice layer of nostalgia.
Adam Parrall, once the drummer for a semi-famous 1980s band, now runs a vinyl record store in the sleepy coastal town of Cordoba, California. His days are filled with cataloging LPs, hosting a local radio show, and dodging the existential dread of aging out of relevance. But when Barry Haddon—a Righteous Brothers tribute artist—turns up dead behind a nightclub, Adam’s quiet life takes a sharp turn toward amateur sleuthing.
But once the actual mystery kicks in, it all feels a bit… safe. The plot follows familiar beats, and I guessed the culprit long before the reveal.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Nicholas George for the advanced copy of "You've Lost That Livin' Feelin'" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#NicholasGeorge
#You'veLostThatLivin"Feelin'
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Nicholas George
Blurb:
Introducing Adam Parrall—retired drummer, vinyl record store owner . . . and amateur sleuth!
Adam Parrall’s wild days as a drummer in a rock band are far behind him. Now semi-retired and running a record store in the sleepy town of Cordoba on the mid-California coast, life is considerably calmer, with pleasant surprises such as winning a lifetime achievement award (which Adam learns, depressingly, is intended for deceased artists).
There’s plenty of life left in Adam yet, though sadly the same can’t be said of Righteous Brother tribute artist Barry Haddon, whose dead body is discovered by Adam outside a nightclub. Suddenly Adam discovers an exciting new hobby—sleuthing! Is a knife-wielding robber terrorizing the locals responsible for Barry’s murder? As panic and confusion sweep through the town, Adam can’t rule anything—or anyone—out. Unfortunately, his meddling may mean that he’ll qualify for that lifetime achievement award sooner than he thought!
The first in an irresistibly charming cozy mystery series featuring a retired drummer seeking to recapture the excitement of his rock band heyday by solving crime. A page-turning must-read for fans of M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman and J.M. Hall!.
My Thoughts:
The first few chapters are great at building atmosphere — the sea breeze, the creaky shop, the records spinning in the background. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up with a coffee and stay awhile. The main character, Adam Parrall, feels genuine, and his connection to the music world adds a nice layer of nostalgia.
Adam Parrall, once the drummer for a semi-famous 1980s band, now runs a vinyl record store in the sleepy coastal town of Cordoba, California. His days are filled with cataloging LPs, hosting a local radio show, and dodging the existential dread of aging out of relevance. But when Barry Haddon—a Righteous Brothers tribute artist—turns up dead behind a nightclub, Adam’s quiet life takes a sharp turn toward amateur sleuthing.
But once the actual mystery kicks in, it all feels a bit… safe. The plot follows familiar beats, and I guessed the culprit long before the reveal.
Thanks NetGalley, Severn House and Author Nicholas George for the advanced copy of "You've Lost That Livin' Feelin'" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#SevernHouse
#NicholasGeorge
#You'veLostThatLivin"Feelin'
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 28, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this eARC.
You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is a witty, nostalgic mystery that riffs on rock history while delivering a fresh, character-driven whodunit. Nicholas George introduces a sleuth who’s as rhythmically sharp as he is emotionally layered.
Adam Parrall, once the drummer for a semi-famous 1980s band, now runs a vinyl record store in the sleepy coastal town of Cordoba, California. His days are filled with cataloging LPs, hosting a local radio show, and dodging the existential dread of aging out of relevance. But when Barry Haddon—a Righteous Brothers tribute artist—turns up dead behind a nightclub, Adam’s quiet life takes a sharp turn toward amateur sleuthing.
George’s writing is clever, brisk, and infused with musical soul. He doesn’t just use music as backdrop—it’s the heartbeat of the story. Adam’s past as a rocker isn’t just flavor; it informs his worldview, his relationships, and his investigative instincts. The mystery itself is tightly plotted, with red herrings, local gossip, and a knife-wielding robber complicating the case. But what elevates the novel is its tone: sardonic, self-aware, and emotionally grounded.
Adam is a standout protagonist. He’s not your typical detective—he’s semi-retired, slightly jaded, and deeply human. His reflections on fame, mortality, and second chances give the story depth beyond its cozy mystery frame. The supporting cast—quirky townsfolk, fellow musicians, and skeptical cops—add texture and humor without veering into caricature.
The title, You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’, is more than a nod to a classic song—it’s a thematic anchor. The novel explores what it means to lose your spark, your relevance, your rhythm—and how solving a murder might just help you find it again. George balances nostalgia with reinvention, crafting a story that honors the past while embracing the messy present.
For readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a twist of rock ‘n’ roll, aging protagonists with bite, and small-town settings that hum with secrets, this book hits all the right notes. It’s the first in a series, and if this debut is any indication, Adam Parrall has plenty of encore performances ahead.
You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is a witty, nostalgic mystery that riffs on rock history while delivering a fresh, character-driven whodunit. Nicholas George introduces a sleuth who’s as rhythmically sharp as he is emotionally layered.
Adam Parrall, once the drummer for a semi-famous 1980s band, now runs a vinyl record store in the sleepy coastal town of Cordoba, California. His days are filled with cataloging LPs, hosting a local radio show, and dodging the existential dread of aging out of relevance. But when Barry Haddon—a Righteous Brothers tribute artist—turns up dead behind a nightclub, Adam’s quiet life takes a sharp turn toward amateur sleuthing.
George’s writing is clever, brisk, and infused with musical soul. He doesn’t just use music as backdrop—it’s the heartbeat of the story. Adam’s past as a rocker isn’t just flavor; it informs his worldview, his relationships, and his investigative instincts. The mystery itself is tightly plotted, with red herrings, local gossip, and a knife-wielding robber complicating the case. But what elevates the novel is its tone: sardonic, self-aware, and emotionally grounded.
Adam is a standout protagonist. He’s not your typical detective—he’s semi-retired, slightly jaded, and deeply human. His reflections on fame, mortality, and second chances give the story depth beyond its cozy mystery frame. The supporting cast—quirky townsfolk, fellow musicians, and skeptical cops—add texture and humor without veering into caricature.
The title, You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’, is more than a nod to a classic song—it’s a thematic anchor. The novel explores what it means to lose your spark, your relevance, your rhythm—and how solving a murder might just help you find it again. George balances nostalgia with reinvention, crafting a story that honors the past while embracing the messy present.
For readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a twist of rock ‘n’ roll, aging protagonists with bite, and small-town settings that hum with secrets, this book hits all the right notes. It’s the first in a series, and if this debut is any indication, Adam Parrall has plenty of encore performances ahead.
December 22, 2025
This was a peculiar one...
There is loads to like if you're a fan of the cozy murder mystery. First off, having a lead character who is a) male, b) in his seventies, and c) has an interesting back story which doesn't involve law enforcement, journalism or cooking all mark this out as being something refreshingly different. The murder is really well plotted and carried out, with several key suspects conveniently out of sight at the time. There are also some interesting motives to dig into and a couple of good red herrings (e.g. knives being found in the street, and the identity of a mystery caller to a radio show).
It's very much a book of two halves, the first half being really strong and setting things up well - the second half however got a bit...haywire. Some of the characterisation is inconsistent to the point of being confusing, the dialogue is shaky at points too. There were two things I had issues major with. One was the way one of the lead characters spoke - specifically in one chapter. I understand that she's not a native English speaker and so some words or phrases might go awry. However...there's one particular conversation she gets literally every idiom wrong; which becomes problematic. One or two slips can be funny but when it's every one it feels like punching down - character wise it also doesn't fit with someone who has lived in the US and spoken English every day for 20 years.
The other major complaint was the way a character with Bipolar was portrayed. This character has behaviour which is all over the place - which in some ways worked for the storytelling and honestly I would have forgiven it had it just been a badly written character. But the fact that the author tried to explain it by having that character be mentally ill was bordering on offensive and really impacted my enjoyment of the book.
I loved that this was clearly written by a bit of a music nerd and that the author tried to do something different. This isn't a bad read at all, but I'm not sure it's a series I'm likely to be returning to...
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me the ARC in return for an honest review -
There is loads to like if you're a fan of the cozy murder mystery. First off, having a lead character who is a) male, b) in his seventies, and c) has an interesting back story which doesn't involve law enforcement, journalism or cooking all mark this out as being something refreshingly different. The murder is really well plotted and carried out, with several key suspects conveniently out of sight at the time. There are also some interesting motives to dig into and a couple of good red herrings (e.g. knives being found in the street, and the identity of a mystery caller to a radio show).
It's very much a book of two halves, the first half being really strong and setting things up well - the second half however got a bit...haywire. Some of the characterisation is inconsistent to the point of being confusing, the dialogue is shaky at points too. There were two things I had issues major with. One was the way one of the lead characters spoke - specifically in one chapter. I understand that she's not a native English speaker and so some words or phrases might go awry. However...there's one particular conversation she gets literally every idiom wrong; which becomes problematic. One or two slips can be funny but when it's every one it feels like punching down - character wise it also doesn't fit with someone who has lived in the US and spoken English every day for 20 years.
The other major complaint was the way a character with Bipolar was portrayed. This character has behaviour which is all over the place - which in some ways worked for the storytelling and honestly I would have forgiven it had it just been a badly written character. But the fact that the author tried to explain it by having that character be mentally ill was bordering on offensive and really impacted my enjoyment of the book.
I loved that this was clearly written by a bit of a music nerd and that the author tried to do something different. This isn't a bad read at all, but I'm not sure it's a series I'm likely to be returning to...
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me the ARC in return for an honest review -
December 21, 2025
This started so strongly and I was all set to enjoy myself. The ideas were great, the setting was great. There was a bit of a build up before the murder which I really enjoy as it lets the world settle around you and gets you more invested into the plot itself. and I love, love, love the way the murder played out. It was very tightly plotted, certain characters moving about, removing themselves so they had no alibis so there was a lot to investigate and plenty of juicy motives to uncover.
It's great to see a male lead in a book like this for a change, and I really enjoyed the idea of his back story, I have a feeling that its going to come into play a lot if this series progresses.
The second half however, is where things start to fall apart a little for me. That tightness starts to loosen and a number of odd character choices, and way too many coincidences start to occur to allow everything to line up. Not to mention there are way too many knives, I know its meant to red herrings and distractions, but it wound up being far too complicated for the plot and the fact the main character had to explain at least twice how the knives work proves it was too much.
My biggest compliant though has to be with how the author portrays a character with mental health issues. Yes, books like this often have characters who behaviour oddly, whose actions shift in relation to the plot rather than themselves, but I would have preferred that as a reason over 'this character has bipolar'. I can applaud the writer for attempting to cover it, but... yikes. Intent is one thing, but if this is how they think people with bipolar act, then its really not a great portrayal and made me feel very uncomfortable to have it play out in the pages.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
It's great to see a male lead in a book like this for a change, and I really enjoyed the idea of his back story, I have a feeling that its going to come into play a lot if this series progresses.
The second half however, is where things start to fall apart a little for me. That tightness starts to loosen and a number of odd character choices, and way too many coincidences start to occur to allow everything to line up. Not to mention there are way too many knives, I know its meant to red herrings and distractions, but it wound up being far too complicated for the plot and the fact the main character had to explain at least twice how the knives work proves it was too much.
My biggest compliant though has to be with how the author portrays a character with mental health issues. Yes, books like this often have characters who behaviour oddly, whose actions shift in relation to the plot rather than themselves, but I would have preferred that as a reason over 'this character has bipolar'. I can applaud the writer for attempting to cover it, but... yikes. Intent is one thing, but if this is how they think people with bipolar act, then its really not a great portrayal and made me feel very uncomfortable to have it play out in the pages.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
November 11, 2025
I really wanted to love this one — the setup had me hooked right away. A washed-up drummer running a vinyl shop in a sleepy coastal town who stumbles into a murder mystery? That’s basically tailor-made for anyone who loves cozy mysteries with a musical twist.
The first few chapters are great at building atmosphere — the sea breeze, the creaky shop, the records spinning in the background. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up with a coffee and stay awhile. The main character, Adam Parrall, feels genuine, and his connection to the music world adds a nice layer of nostalgia.
But once the actual mystery kicks in, it all feels a bit… safe. The plot follows familiar beats, and I guessed the culprit long before the reveal. Some of the dialogue and secondary characters lean on small-town stereotypes (the nosy neighbor, the eccentric friend, the conveniently-timed clue). I also found myself wishing the author leaned harder into the music element — there’s potential for depth there that never quite comes through.
Still, it’s a pleasant read. If you’re in the mood for something low-stakes, charming, and easy to follow — kind of like listening to an old record that skips a bit but still makes you smile — this will hit the spot. Just don’t go in expecting big twists or edge-of-your-seat suspense.
Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for the eARC!!
TL;DR: Cozy mystery meets record-store vibes. Fun concept, nice writing, just not super memorable.
The first few chapters are great at building atmosphere — the sea breeze, the creaky shop, the records spinning in the background. It’s the kind of setting that makes you want to curl up with a coffee and stay awhile. The main character, Adam Parrall, feels genuine, and his connection to the music world adds a nice layer of nostalgia.
But once the actual mystery kicks in, it all feels a bit… safe. The plot follows familiar beats, and I guessed the culprit long before the reveal. Some of the dialogue and secondary characters lean on small-town stereotypes (the nosy neighbor, the eccentric friend, the conveniently-timed clue). I also found myself wishing the author leaned harder into the music element — there’s potential for depth there that never quite comes through.
Still, it’s a pleasant read. If you’re in the mood for something low-stakes, charming, and easy to follow — kind of like listening to an old record that skips a bit but still makes you smile — this will hit the spot. Just don’t go in expecting big twists or edge-of-your-seat suspense.
Thank you NetGalley and Severn House for the eARC!!
TL;DR: Cozy mystery meets record-store vibes. Fun concept, nice writing, just not super memorable.
October 2, 2025
Thank you NetGalley & Severn House for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ by Nicholas George. This book is to be published on January 6, 2026.
In small town Cordoba, Adam & Shawna Parrall are retired rockers enjoying a semi-retirement. Adam has his record store and a radio program to keep himself busy and Shawna sells real estate and aspires to be a celebrity chef.
After promoting Barry Haddon’s Righteous Brother tribute show on his radio program, Adam is gifted tickets to the show. Unfortunately, Barry doesn’t make it to the stage. He gets fileted like a fish. Though it’s not up to Adam to solve the murder mystery, he takes on the role of an amateur detective to help Cordoba’s small police force.
There is nostalgia throughout the story in the names of old bands from 60’s, 70’s and 80’s as Adam relives his former glory days as a drummer. It was endearing that the first band mentioned was the fabricated band, The Archies. As a child, I learned how to read by reading Archie comics. I also know all the words to Sugar Sugar.
Peppered throughout are a lot of red herrings to sway the mystery from one suspect to another. Everyone in Cordoba is a potential suspect. There is a wide array of sketchy characters in Cordoba. In the end, the perpetrator does get apprehended and all the minor side mysteries are resolved.
In small town Cordoba, Adam & Shawna Parrall are retired rockers enjoying a semi-retirement. Adam has his record store and a radio program to keep himself busy and Shawna sells real estate and aspires to be a celebrity chef.
After promoting Barry Haddon’s Righteous Brother tribute show on his radio program, Adam is gifted tickets to the show. Unfortunately, Barry doesn’t make it to the stage. He gets fileted like a fish. Though it’s not up to Adam to solve the murder mystery, he takes on the role of an amateur detective to help Cordoba’s small police force.
There is nostalgia throughout the story in the names of old bands from 60’s, 70’s and 80’s as Adam relives his former glory days as a drummer. It was endearing that the first band mentioned was the fabricated band, The Archies. As a child, I learned how to read by reading Archie comics. I also know all the words to Sugar Sugar.
Peppered throughout are a lot of red herrings to sway the mystery from one suspect to another. Everyone in Cordoba is a potential suspect. There is a wide array of sketchy characters in Cordoba. In the end, the perpetrator does get apprehended and all the minor side mysteries are resolved.
November 7, 2025
This one’s a slow, slow burn. And I don’t mean that in the simmering, tension-filled way. You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ feels more like a meandering stroll through the lives of Adam and Shawna Parrall than an actual mystery. The murder plot exists, but it’s very much in the background, almost like a background track you forget is playing while you’re busy admiring the decor.
Now, full confession: I found it adorably sweet that Shawna is also the name of the author’s wife, because the warmth and affection between the fictional Adam and Shawna shines through every page. Their banter, their gentle teasing, their shared history is so effortless. It’s the kind of mature relationship we don’t see enough in fiction.
But the pacing… oh boy. It’s glacial. The clues come in fits and starts, and when the reveal finally hits, it feels more random than revelatory. Adam’s investigation doesn’t really feel like sleuthing; it’s more like an old guy asking casual questions over cups of tea and vinyl records. There’s heart here, absolutely, but the mystery side never quite finds its rhythm.
Would I Recommend It?
If you love slice-of-life stories with cozy, older protagonists and gentle charm, this might be your kind of comfort read. But if you came for the mystery, you may find yourself impatient for the beat to drop.
Let’s Chat: When Cozy Becomes Too Cozy
Do you enjoy mysteries where the crime takes a backseat to the characters’ lives, or do you prefer a snappier, clue-driven plot? Tell me where your patience threshold lies when it comes to “slow burn” storytelling.
Now, full confession: I found it adorably sweet that Shawna is also the name of the author’s wife, because the warmth and affection between the fictional Adam and Shawna shines through every page. Their banter, their gentle teasing, their shared history is so effortless. It’s the kind of mature relationship we don’t see enough in fiction.
But the pacing… oh boy. It’s glacial. The clues come in fits and starts, and when the reveal finally hits, it feels more random than revelatory. Adam’s investigation doesn’t really feel like sleuthing; it’s more like an old guy asking casual questions over cups of tea and vinyl records. There’s heart here, absolutely, but the mystery side never quite finds its rhythm.
Would I Recommend It?
If you love slice-of-life stories with cozy, older protagonists and gentle charm, this might be your kind of comfort read. But if you came for the mystery, you may find yourself impatient for the beat to drop.
Let’s Chat: When Cozy Becomes Too Cozy
Do you enjoy mysteries where the crime takes a backseat to the characters’ lives, or do you prefer a snappier, clue-driven plot? Tell me where your patience threshold lies when it comes to “slow burn” storytelling.
October 20, 2025
Thank you NetGalley & Severn House for the Advanced Reader’s Copy of You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ by Nicholas George.
3.5 stars
You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is a 50/50 mix of a murder mystery and a cozy small town living book. The book is about Adam, who lives in this small town with his wife, with whom he was in a band. Now he has a record store and still visits the local music venue, where, one day, a musician gets murdered. This stars a mystery plot, but it progresses quite slowly. There is still a lot of focus on the characters and their living in this town during the book. This is one thing I liked less, I feel like there was less focus on the crime during the plot and thus it was all wrapped up quite fast at the end. The mystery was resolved in 1 page in the end.
3.5 stars
You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’ is a 50/50 mix of a murder mystery and a cozy small town living book. The book is about Adam, who lives in this small town with his wife, with whom he was in a band. Now he has a record store and still visits the local music venue, where, one day, a musician gets murdered. This stars a mystery plot, but it progresses quite slowly. There is still a lot of focus on the characters and their living in this town during the book. This is one thing I liked less, I feel like there was less focus on the crime during the plot and thus it was all wrapped up quite fast at the end. The mystery was resolved in 1 page in the end.
November 18, 2025
This was a fun, quick read. I enjoyed the quirky characters and all of the musical references throughout the book. The book was well paced and although the storyline wasn't quite believable, it didn't have to be for me to enjoy the book. Strongly recommended
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for an advanced reader copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Severn House for an advanced reader copy.
November 2, 2025
Thank you to Net Galley for the advanced copy of You've Lost That Livin' Feelin". Adam Parrall, former rock star, has retired to the easy life in Cordoba. Or so he thinks. Murder and serial robbery have shattered the quiet life.
December 5, 2025
I really wanted to like this. And I did enjoy the look back at all of the old albums and songs but the story itself just didn’t work for me. It felt like the author threw together a batch of cozy mystery stereotypes, the pace was slow, and the mystery almost felt like an afterthought.
November 20, 2025
witty and fun book with a great new sleuth character and some very fun vibes. the final twist is SO strange, but they manage that really well both before and after. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.
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