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Martha's Vineyard Mystery #19
Vineyard Chill
For year-round Vineyard residents J. W. Jackson and his wife, Zee, winter brings its own beauty, with uncrowded streets, pristine snowy landscapes, and long, cozy nights by the fire. It can also bring danger. There's a chill in the air one January day when J.W. receives a surprising visit from long-ago pal Clay Stockton. Thrice divorced and still living on the edge, Clay has come to J.W. not to relive the reckless days of their youth but to ask J.W. for help. He's in big trouble and needs to lie low on the Vineyard.
And it isn't just Clay who needs J.W.'s assistance; J.W.'s pal Bonzo has made a frightening discovery that may lead to the whereabouts of Nadine Gibson, a young woman who went missing on the Vine-yard almost a year ago. Bonzo once took Nadine bird-watching, and the circumstances connecting Nadine's disappearance to Bonzo are enough to make him a "person of interest" to the police.
With two friends in trouble and his own family receiving threats, J.W. must summon all of his investigative skills to try to restore order to his beloved island home, where fishing and good food should always take precedence over murder.
Featuring Craig's trademark mix of wit, suspense, and Vineyard ambiance, "Vineyard Chill" is a marvelous tribute to a much-loved author whose passion for mystery and Martha's Vineyard enriches every page.
And it isn't just Clay who needs J.W.'s assistance; J.W.'s pal Bonzo has made a frightening discovery that may lead to the whereabouts of Nadine Gibson, a young woman who went missing on the Vine-yard almost a year ago. Bonzo once took Nadine bird-watching, and the circumstances connecting Nadine's disappearance to Bonzo are enough to make him a "person of interest" to the police.
With two friends in trouble and his own family receiving threats, J.W. must summon all of his investigative skills to try to restore order to his beloved island home, where fishing and good food should always take precedence over murder.
Featuring Craig's trademark mix of wit, suspense, and Vineyard ambiance, "Vineyard Chill" is a marvelous tribute to a much-loved author whose passion for mystery and Martha's Vineyard enriches every page.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published June 3, 2008
86 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Philip R. Craig
27 books102 followersAuthor Philip R. Craig passed away on May 8, 2007 after a brief battle with cancer.
Phil left three completed novels, which have now all been published posthumously. Vineyard Stalker came out in June of 2007 just after Phil's death. Third Strike, co-written with Bill Tapply, came out in November of 2007. The final J.W. Jackson mystery, Vineyard Chill, is on the shelves now. Another J.W. book is partially written, and may someday be completed by his family per his instructions, so stay tuned. Delish, the cookbook co-written with Phil’s wife Shirley Prada Craig, is also still available.
The Philip R. Craig website will be maintained as a tribute to my father and his many fans. ~ Jamie Craig
Phil left three completed novels, which have now all been published posthumously. Vineyard Stalker came out in June of 2007 just after Phil's death. Third Strike, co-written with Bill Tapply, came out in November of 2007. The final J.W. Jackson mystery, Vineyard Chill, is on the shelves now. Another J.W. book is partially written, and may someday be completed by his family per his instructions, so stay tuned. Delish, the cookbook co-written with Phil’s wife Shirley Prada Craig, is also still available.
The Philip R. Craig website will be maintained as a tribute to my father and his many fans. ~ Jamie Craig
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
September 2, 2008
It is with great sadness that I will read this final book in the Martha's Vineyard Mystery series, about JW Jackson and his family. I was fortunate to meet, immortalize the meeting with a photo, and spend considerable time talking with Philip Craig during a book-signing at the Brewster Book Shop, in June 2004. Good timing on my part - no one else was there. He was as friendly and laid-back as his main character. We talked about his plots and settings as well as his recipes, specifically the bluefish pate. Delish! Philip Craig died in May 2007 after a short battle with cancer.
September 18, 2008
Have read all of Craig's JW Johnson mysteries. Sadly this is his last as he passed away May of 2007. Quick reads, Vineyard history and present insanity, and recipies ! What mmore could you ask for on the beach or on a rainy afternoon.
April 23, 2018
I'm very sorry to reach the end of this series. Craig's characters are personable and complex, and I even forgive him the occasional uncredited citing of a phrase from one of the classics. The Martha's Vineyard locations are vivid, and the mysteries quite compelling. And I've never heard so much about fishing, clamming, and cooking the fruits of the sea! Now for a Luksusowa with an olive in it!
February 15, 2009
I read this book almost reluctantly. The author, Phillip Craig past away shortly after it was submitted to his publishers so it is the last volume in the long running Martha's Vineyard mysteries.No more descriptions of lazy afternoon fishing with J.W. Jackson, his wife Zee and 2 children on the ponds of the island. And no more chasing around a slew of bad guys, after jewels, drugs, buried bodies etc. with the aid of J.W."s eccentric group of friends, former and present spies or law enforcement personnel. Its been a lovely ride and I'll enjoy going back and rereading this series again. As the book ends, J.W. is sitting on the sands with Zee watching his children fish as a friend sails off to another adventure. "I wished him well and knew many would envy him, but when I looked at my wife and children, close by me on the golden sand, I felt content." A fitting last line for both J.W> and Phillip Craig.
May 16, 2010
I loved all the Martha's Vineyard books by Philip R. Craig. His death was a great loss to the literary community and I will miss this great series. J.W. Jackson and his family will live forever in my mind. : )
September 4, 2022
Vineyard Chill by Philip R. Craig is the 19th and final book of the Martha's Vineyard mystery series set in late-20th-century Martha's Vineyard.
J.W. Jackson, retired Boston PD detective, loves living year-round on Martha's Vineyard with his wife Zee, kids Joshua and Diana. J.W. fishes for blues & harvests quahogs whenever he can, works as a handyman otherwise, taking care of vacation homes on the island for mainland residents.
J.W. gets a call from Clayton, a blast from the past. Of course J.W. welcomes his friend "from way back" to visit. Turns out a few gangsters are after Clayton. J.W. and Clayton take evasive maneuvers, figure out what's going on with them, and eventually run them off.
Meanwhile simple-minded Bonzo at the Fireside Bar finds crime evidence. He doesn't have much IQ left after a drug overdose, but he knows to go to J.W. first, since the police just consider him a suspect. A bit thin for a mystery plot...J.W. busies himself investigating a murder so that Bonzo will not be harassed. This time - unlike other books in the series - the book wraps the case at J.W.'s intuitive understanding of the crime and motivation, not after proof with forensic evidence.
Finishing the series is bittersweet. It was written with obvious love for the island. This last book states and restates how different life is in the winter without tourists. Martha's Vineyard does seem like a delightful vacation spot - perhaps best in shoulder season or winter.
As always, recipes are included - J.W. loves to cook for his family! Spinach Lasagna, Linguini with Shellfish and Garlic Sauce, Pasta with Salmon. [Salmon? Really? J.W. never catches and cooks salmon.]
J.W. Jackson, retired Boston PD detective, loves living year-round on Martha's Vineyard with his wife Zee, kids Joshua and Diana. J.W. fishes for blues & harvests quahogs whenever he can, works as a handyman otherwise, taking care of vacation homes on the island for mainland residents.
J.W. gets a call from Clayton, a blast from the past. Of course J.W. welcomes his friend "from way back" to visit. Turns out a few gangsters are after Clayton. J.W. and Clayton take evasive maneuvers, figure out what's going on with them, and eventually run them off.
Meanwhile simple-minded Bonzo at the Fireside Bar finds crime evidence. He doesn't have much IQ left after a drug overdose, but he knows to go to J.W. first, since the police just consider him a suspect. A bit thin for a mystery plot...J.W. busies himself investigating a murder so that Bonzo will not be harassed. This time - unlike other books in the series - the book wraps the case at J.W.'s intuitive understanding of the crime and motivation, not after proof with forensic evidence.
Finishing the series is bittersweet. It was written with obvious love for the island. This last book states and restates how different life is in the winter without tourists. Martha's Vineyard does seem like a delightful vacation spot - perhaps best in shoulder season or winter.
As always, recipes are included - J.W. loves to cook for his family! Spinach Lasagna, Linguini with Shellfish and Garlic Sauce, Pasta with Salmon. [Salmon? Really? J.W. never catches and cooks salmon.]
February 22, 2020
Because of Mr. Craig's death in 2007, this is the last of an excellent series of JW Jackson stories. Thanks to his family for publishing the last of his manuscripts. There were two story lines in this book, one involving JW's long time friend who showed up for a surprise visit and the other about a missing woman and his pal Bonzo. JW continues to be the loyal friend, good husband, father, and investigator. The is minimal development of the peripheral continuing characters, such as Bonzo, Dom, the Edgartown police chief (who did not appear in this episode), or Joe Begay, but the growth of JW, Zee, and their children adds to the enjoyment of the tales. Three recipes are included in most of the books, though I have not tried any. The entire series is an enjoyable read if you're planning to spend some time on Martha's Vineyard or even if you're not.
July 30, 2019
The first time I read this book, I was so sad because I knew that it would be the last one in the series, Philip R. Craig having passed away while the book was in production. This time, I was able to enjoy spending time with J.W., his family, and Martha's Vineyard.
I recommend the whole series, because the characters are likable, though J.W. has his own approach to things like loyalty and ethics. It's also a great description of the Vineyard as seen by the year round people, and you're unlikely to guess the ending.
I would begin either at the beginning or earlier in the series to truly appreciate this one.
I recommend the whole series, because the characters are likable, though J.W. has his own approach to things like loyalty and ethics. It's also a great description of the Vineyard as seen by the year round people, and you're unlikely to guess the ending.
I would begin either at the beginning or earlier in the series to truly appreciate this one.
November 1, 2022
Vineyard Chill by Philip R. Craig was published in 2008, after the author had passed away.
The story begins with the discovery of a young woman's body, a local resident, who was found a year later as the snow began to recede.
At the same time, J.W. has unexpected company arrive to visit. A long ago Vietnam War buddy comes to Martha's Vineyard.
These two mysteries put J.W.'s investigative skills to work helping to solve these stories and protect his two friends.
Especially in the last two chapters, I couldn't help think of his own personal circumstance.
I highly recommend this cozy-like series.
The story begins with the discovery of a young woman's body, a local resident, who was found a year later as the snow began to recede.
At the same time, J.W. has unexpected company arrive to visit. A long ago Vietnam War buddy comes to Martha's Vineyard.
These two mysteries put J.W.'s investigative skills to work helping to solve these stories and protect his two friends.
Especially in the last two chapters, I couldn't help think of his own personal circumstance.
I highly recommend this cozy-like series.
February 1, 2023
I really enjoy the characters in this series even though JW has a lot of shady friends for a former Boston cop. When a charming old buddy comes to visit/hide out, his problems follow him to the island and threaten to put others in harms way. In addition, there is a subplot concerning a young woman missing for over a year. When her body is found, JW's special friend Bonzo becomes a person-of-interest and JW is determined to prove his innocence. A fast read with some nice twists.
July 23, 2022
July 2022 LP I don't think I read this story since it isn't on my Goodreads list. I do like the personality of JW Jackson. I recommend it!
"For year-round Vineyard residents J. W. Jackson and his wife, Zee, winter brings its own beauty, with uncrowded streets, pristine snowy landscapes, and long, cozy nights by the fire. It can also bring danger.
"For year-round Vineyard residents J. W. Jackson and his wife, Zee, winter brings its own beauty, with uncrowded streets, pristine snowy landscapes, and long, cozy nights by the fire. It can also bring danger.
June 18, 2023
Outstanding; Continuing character: J. W. Jackson; an old friend of JW's comes to the island and trouble soon follows; at the same time a girl missing for the past year is found dead and JW's friend Bonzo may be the primary suspect unless JW can help solve the case; this marks the end of the JW Jackson series, unfortunately
June 27, 2023
Need a break from your daily routine. Take a vacation to Martha's Vineyard with Phillip R. Craig's whimsical mystery, VINEYARD CHILL. J.W. Jackson and his wife, Zee function as tour guides, while J.W. acts as detective in a delightful tour of the quaint east coast island. Well written with intrigue, recipes, and beautiful descriptions of this historic resort.
September 1, 2017
An old friend of J.W.'s appears and later so do some criminals on his tail. Add into the mix the resolution of a year old murder and it's a busy time on Martha's Vineyard. Sadly, this is the last book in the series as the author passed away before this one was released.
September 10, 2017
Loved it!
December 12, 2017
Had to read the last Craig book, but nothing special.
March 8, 2019
as always an enjoyable read
October 8, 2019
Enjoyable read! I liked it a lot. I may read more in the series.
January 18, 2021
Always a fun, escapist book t0 rea,
December 9, 2023
I enjoyed all 19!
September 17, 2024
It was like meeting old friends again
I had completed reading his first eighteen books some years ago and was delighted ti reunite with JW and Zee!
I had completed reading his first eighteen books some years ago and was delighted ti reunite with JW and Zee!
January 4, 2017
Feeling tender finishing this last installment as we savor the last couple weeks of our time on Martha's Vineyard.
February 8, 2017
his friend comes and gets a job snowplowing, then working on building a friends boat. he gets a apt and car from the mans sister, they become good friends. bonzo finds a nest made of red hair like the girl that disappeared.
they found her dead wrapped in a sheet under a old crumbling foundation. they are trying to find out who killed her. he doesnt want his friend bonzo accused so he is looking into it
meanwhile his friend clay has 2 thugs after him for money he has in a locker that belongs to someone who disappeared. jw and clay set a trap and force the thugs to leave.
he found out it was the landlords jealous wife who killed the girl. the landlord moved the body to protect her as she wasnt 'all there'. they got the boat finished for the friend and clay sailed off with them.
this was the last book , the author died. very sad
they found her dead wrapped in a sheet under a old crumbling foundation. they are trying to find out who killed her. he doesnt want his friend bonzo accused so he is looking into it
meanwhile his friend clay has 2 thugs after him for money he has in a locker that belongs to someone who disappeared. jw and clay set a trap and force the thugs to leave.
he found out it was the landlords jealous wife who killed the girl. the landlord moved the body to protect her as she wasnt 'all there'. they got the boat finished for the friend and clay sailed off with them.
this was the last book , the author died. very sad
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2015
#19 in the Martha's Vineyard Mystery series. The final entry in the series featuring Boston ex-cop J.W. Jackson. This atmospheric series follows the Vineyard adventures of J.W. as he is attracted to and eventually marries Zee, and then has two children. The children grow up until the death of author Craig. J.W. often mentions his Boston-based lawyer friend, Brady Coyne, the creation of author William G. Tappley who died not long after his good friend Philip R. Craig.
Martha's Vineyard Mystery series - J. W. Jackson is visited by Clay Stockton, an old, footloose friend, who is avoiding a pair of thugs intent on finding the location of some illicit drug money. Meanwhile, the body of a waitress missing for a year is found and JW's friend Bonzo is on the short list of suspects having accompanied her to the crime scene on a birdwatching trip.
Martha's Vineyard Mystery series - J. W. Jackson is visited by Clay Stockton, an old, footloose friend, who is avoiding a pair of thugs intent on finding the location of some illicit drug money. Meanwhile, the body of a waitress missing for a year is found and JW's friend Bonzo is on the short list of suspects having accompanied her to the crime scene on a birdwatching trip.
April 8, 2014
J. W. married Zee, and they have children. They live on Martha's Vineyard, and they love their island. When an Clay, an old buddy from his youth, appears, Clay brings with him the consequences of his life choices in the form of two gangsters who make a mistake. They made a veiled threat to J. W. about Zee and the children.
In the meantime, a young woman disappeared a year earlier. A mentally challenged young man who is an avid birder, brings home a robin's nest that just happens to have long strands of red hair in it. The woman's body is uncovered, and now J. W. is working to find the murderer before his mentally challenged friend is accused of the crime.
Lesson learned: You really do not know your neighbors.
In the meantime, a young woman disappeared a year earlier. A mentally challenged young man who is an avid birder, brings home a robin's nest that just happens to have long strands of red hair in it. The woman's body is uncovered, and now J. W. is working to find the murderer before his mentally challenged friend is accused of the crime.
Lesson learned: You really do not know your neighbors.
June 21, 2008
The last Marthas Vineyard Mystery by the late Philip Craig is well worth reading. J. W. Jackson receives a visit from a long ago friend Clay Stockton who needs to lay low for a while. Meanwhile J.W.'s friend, Bonzo who works at the Fireside Bar has made a discovery that may solve the disappearnce of Nadine Gibson who went missing almost a year ago. J.W. must try to restore order to his beloved island home and help his two friends.
August 17, 2008
Sad to think that this is the last of the JW Jackson Martha's Vineyard mysteries. This one was way too predictable - I knew whodunnit pretty much the first time the character was introduced. It was not what I would call a gripping read but, as always, it was a pleasant one. My main concern remains that JW and Zee drink way too much and way too often in front of their kids but, perhaps, that's just my up-bringing.
August 31, 2008
I am so sorry that this is the last book in the series, due to the passing of Philip R. Craig. I love these characters, and I'm going to miss hearing about them every summer. I've started buying this series, because it's a definite reread for me, but due to having my books in storage, that project is on hold for now. It's a very enjoyable series, and I liked how the characters developed over time. J.W. Jackson is very sensible, and I like that in a character too.
November 25, 2011
Excellent, as always. His mysteries are more about a regular guy making a living with odd jobs, part time fisherman, caretaker of a couple friends' summer homes, life on MV off season more than on season. His wife is a nurse, his kids are in school, they work in the garden together, fishing is often as much a family outing as a chore - and occasionally a snake appears in his "garden" and he ferrets it out. Compare to Ladies No.1 Detective Agency by Alexander McCall Smith.
July 19, 2008
I enjoy his laid back, gentle writing. Also the descriptions of Marthas Vineyard make me nostalgic for the summers we spent at Cape Cod. Very similar places. I was saddened to see in the acknowledgements written by his wife Shirley, that he passed away in May of 2007. So ends the Vineyard series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews