Murder on Charity Lane

Marigold Cottages Murders #2

by Jo Nichols

The charming and heartfelt follow-up to The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective, written in the vein of The Thursday Murder Club and "Only Murders in the Building," with a southern California twist.

After the recent 'hubbub'—as Mrs. B describes the murders on the property—quiet descends upon the Marigold Cottages. Sophie is moving in with Nicholas, Anthony is smitten with Lily-Ann, and life is returning to normal.

But Mrs. B misses the hubbub.

That's why she invites her friend Elsa Moore to move into Sophie's now-vacant cottage: Elsa is a suspect in the death of her employer, who tumbled down the stairs of his mansion during a dinner party. His much-younger window claims she saw Elsa push Frank, but Mrs. B knows she's innocent.

Mrs. B rallies the residents to investigate the party-goers: an eccentric couple who owe Frank, a fundraiser who depends on his largesse, and an old friend obsessed with life-extension. But the tenants all come to the same conclusion: Elsa is guilty.

And as they investigate, someone is snooping around the Cottages, leaving windows unlocked and papers misplaced. Then there’s a second murder, and they discover that Mrs. B risked the Marigold Court for Elsa. With their tight-knit community on the line, they must prove her innocence.

Genres: Mystery, Cozy Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Mystery Thriller

352 pages, Hardcover

Expected publication August 18, 2026

About the author

JOEL ROSS is the author of an award-winning fogpunk adventure series that includes THE FOG DIVER and THE LOST COMPASS, the BEAST & CROWN series, and ALLEY & REX series. As Joel Naftali, he wrote a skunkpunk children’s series and co-wrote THE ARMY OF FROGS trilogy which became a Netflix animated series―for which he and Lee wrote the screenplays. He is also the author of two adult WWII thrillers. And as Joel Dane, he wrote the CRY PILOT science fiction series, along with the science fiction podcast, MARIGOLD BREACH that starred Jameela Jamil and Manny Jacinto.

LEE NICHOLS is the author of five chick lit novels including the bestselling TALES OF A DRAMA QUEEN and HAND-ME-DOWN. She’s written the HAUNTING EMMA series for young adults, which is currently optioned for TV and co-wrote the animated Netflix series, THE ARMY OF FROGS.

Lee and Joel met in college and have lived together more years than they have not. They currently reside in Santa Barbara with two cats named Earl and Betty and have one son who pretends to be learning something while away at college. After collaborating on roughly thirty books together for both children and adults, they finally sat down to write The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective, their first mystery.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[James · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quirky cast of characters. Sophomore book in the series where we investigate another crime. Who wanted the wealthy, elderly man dead. And why did it happen way differently than someone else expected. Interesting California setting where the cottages represent a tight-knit group of misfits who've come to see each other as family. I enjoyed many of the scenes but I struggled to maintain interest the entire time. Still a good one tho.

[theliterateleprechaun]

4 ⭐

This book is the second installment in The Marigold Cottages Murders series and is set six months after the series debut. To get the most from this story, I’d recommend starting with book one.

I loved escaping back into Ms. B’s world; the ensemble cast of unconventional found family instantly pulled me in. I love how this cast of unusual and quirky renters makes the community feel familiar and allows me to sit back and laugh or gasp at the antics. Don’t get me wrong, Ms B steps up her game and there are still mysteries and murders to solve, but the solidarity and camaraderie of these renters is the highlight of the series. It may not have had the same tone as the series debut, but I LOVED that the authors chose to gloss over the character introduction. It’s a big pet peeve of mine when sequels take up pages reintroducing cast members. If you’ve read book one, you’ll be able to hop right into the action in this installment after meeting one new renter, Elsa.

I’m all in for book three!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Wendi Flint Rank (WendiReviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

We have a strong conclusion to a (book)
story that I was having a difficult time
spending time with and caring about the
characters. At the 3/4 mark, it was as if
a bright light appeared along with a
friend;y ghost~ to make sure I was getting
the point and loving how brilliant the plot
really is as it comes together with a strong
set up for the next offering.
I STRONGLY encourage folks to read the
first book so you will be set up for success!
My thanks to Minotaur Books via Net Galley
for the download of the book for review
purposes.

[Stacey · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 rounded down for goodreads

After being absolutely enchanted with book one, I was thoroughly disappointed by this second installment. If you haven’t read the first book, you’re going to be totally lost here. We don’t really get a rundown of the characters, and the events of the first book are casually sprinkled throughout, almost in passing.

Lily-Ann is making great strides personality-wise, and that was wonderful to see, but I would have loved to see more character development from the rest of the group (minus Anthony, because he’s a peach).

While we’re given the same rotating POV chapter style from book one, the story really ends up belonging to Sophie and Nicolas, both of whom weren’t my favorites from the first book. Unfortunately, the story felt boring, dry, and dragged out. There’s little to no action and hardly any involvement from the group until the very end.

There also felt like there were too many outside players compared to the main cast. Instead of being a fun, chaotic mystery like the first book, the story just felt slow. I don’t know how many times I picked up my phone or got up to do chores mid-sentence.

I’m hoping this was just a fluke and not the tone of the rest of the series. Given how strong the first book was, I’d absolutely be willing to try book three when it comes out.

[Dayle (the literary llama) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so so so hoping that book one would launch a succesful series and was elated to jump into Murder on Charity Lane to discover if the eccentric and quirky murder mystery path could be taken twice. It's a slightly unconventional arc that these books take, giving something new to the cozy genre while also fitting right in with just a smidge more blood and grit. And I'm happy to report that it's another winner for the people at Marigold Cottages. Sweet and fun this time around with couples shacking up and interactions of all kinds feeling closer and more intimate. Their shared secrets bond them even while casting a small shadow.

Of course there is a new murder to solve and Mrs B is intent to shove her nearest and dearest right into the middle of it. The accusations fly and the intrusive sleuthing begins. Detective Vernon is back and he's a lot more likeable this time around. Much improved, thankfully, while not completely abandoning his established personality, he has his own investigation to commence and with a little bit of sanctioned help from our intrepid collective.

Are some things a little too coincidental? Sure. Can some things be easily extrapolated? Yes. But are the short chapters and multitude of characters absolutely delightful making this a dream to read? Absolutely.

Basically, I love this series and I hope there are many more stories to come.

* I received a free early ecopy from the publisher

[Trisha]

oooh I loved book 1 of this series!! Can'tw ait to read this one!

[Devi · Rating 5 out of 5]

📱📖 Read on Kindle (Kobo edition)
📃 352 pages
⏱ 4.5 hours
🏷️ Publisher: Minotaur Books
📅 Release Date: August 18, 2026
✨ ARC provided by NetGalley

After adoring the first Marigold Cottages Murder Collective, I was both nervous and giddy to see if Jo Nichols could pull it off again... and Jo Nichols delivered! Murder on Charity Lane leans into everything that made Book 1 sparkle: cozy chaos, loveable oddballs, and Mrs. B’s irresistible meddling. In book one, murder landed at Marigold Cottages uninvited. But this time, Mrs. B practically sets out the welcome mat for it. And honestly? I loved that bold energy.

Because we already know the residents, Nichols skips lengthy character reintroductions. Which is refreshing, but also my gentle PSA: read this series in order. The ensemble dynamic is half the magic. Watching this found family grow more comfortable, more united, and more in sync with each other’s quirks made the whole experience warmer and richer. The multi-POV structure (everyone except Mrs. B) adds layers, though I am deeply curious why we’re denied her perspective. And Sophie alone narrating in first person? Intriguing choice. I have questions, Jo Nichols. I have questions. The pacing is gentle but confident, and Nichols’s descriptive touch strikes just the right balance: warm, vivid, and never bogged down.

The writing remains smooth and immersive, painting Marigold Cottages in cozy, sun-warmed tones without overindulging in description. The mystery itself keeps the pages turning, but it’s the community that anchors everything. This series has that rare “I want to live there” quality. Coming back to Marigold Cottages felt like catching up with old friends, ones you’d absolutely gossip with over tea and scones while a murder unravels next door. Mrs. B has fully taken the reins as the Queen Bee of Charm and Chaos, and I, for one, am delighted to follow her anywhere. I cannot get enough. Book three might be a year away, but consider me already impatient.

Would I recommend it?
Murder on Charity Lane is a charming, clever sequel that wraps humor, heart, and a solid mystery into one breezy read. If you love small-town cozy mysteries, strong ensemble casts, and that warm “found family” feeling wrapped around a twisty whodunit, this series continues to deliver. It’s comfortable without being complacent, charming without losing stakes. Mrs. B remains iconic. If you loved the first, this one’s an automatic pre-order.

[ReaderintheFog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to St. Martins Press, Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC, all opinions in this review are my own.

Murder on Charity Lane by Jo Nichols is the fantastic sequel to The Marigold Cottage Murder Collective, with the same cast of lovable misfits and a brand new murder mystery to solve.

Hopefully if you are planning to dive into this story you have already read the first book in the series (there are definitely spoilers). And I think you really need to go into this one one with a sense of who all of these characters are so you can appreciate the progress they have all made and the relationships they are building.

The best thing about sequels with ensemble casts is that you get to skip the “getting to know you” phase and go right into the fun and inside jokes and see how all of the relationships have deepened and developed. That is the real charm of this book, the characters as individuals and all of the different relationships and dynamics. The mystery was fun too, and definitely kept me guessing with all of the different suspects but I was here for the characters and their crazy antics and found myself laughing out loud multiple times. So much so that I convinced my husband to read the first book based on that alone!

If you enjoyed the characters and storytelling of the first book you will love this one even more, I can tell the authors are really hitting their stride with developing the personalities and relationships.

If you are considering reading this series for the first time, read this if you are in the mood for some fun cozy mysteries with a dynamic cast of characters who are dead set on solving a mystery while also breaking all sorts of laws and getting in the way of the police (the Santa Barbara version of Only Murders in the Building). I hope we get even more books in this series as I would love to hang out with these characters again.

[Samma · Rating 4 out of 5]

Returning to the charming chaos of the Marigold Cottages and its eclectic residents, this second installment picks up six months after the events of the first book. Since the first novel spent so much time introducing readers to the colorful occupants of the cottages, this story is able to jump much more quickly into the mystery. I appreciated that, though I do think this is definitely a series best read in order so you fully understand all the relationships and dynamics between the characters.

This one started a little slowly for me, but once I got past the halfway point, everything began falling into place for another wild adventure with Mrs. B and the gang. In her usual flamboyant fashion, Mrs. B wastes no time filling the cottage Sophie vacates after moving in with Nicholas. But has the new tenant committed murder? Naturally, the Marigold Cottages Murder Collective is back on the case, using their wonderfully haphazard and often hilarious investigative methods to uncover the truth.

Was the killer fairly easy to figure out? Yes. Were there plenty of red herrings along the way? Also yes. Was it somewhat predictable? Absolutely. But honestly, none of that really matters because these characters are just so endearing and fun to spend time with. That’s really the magic of this series.

While this installment focused heavily on Sophie and Nicholas—who still aren’t my personal favorites, though they are growing on me—the rest of the residents are still involved in plenty of entertaining hijinks, especially Mrs. B. I’m also hoping the next book gives us much more of Lily Ann and Anthony’s storyline, along with sweet Miles. His relationship with Anthony is such a bright spot in the series.

I’m already looking forward to seeing who moves into the cottages next.

Thanks to Minotaur Books, NetGalley, and Jo Nichols for the opportunity to read this advance copy before publication.

[BookwormishMe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Marigold Cottages is the place I wish I could have lived. A courtyard with cottages surrounding it. A wonderful but crazy landlady. A group of residents who truly care for one another. It’s a community.

This time around, Ocean is dating CJ. CJ is a young woman who is the house manager for a very wealthy, former music executive. His wife detests CJ. Most likely jealousy, because Frank treats CJ like his own child. Nothing more, nothing less. They are just the best of friends. CJ keeps Frank’s life in order and makes sure he’s happy.

Sophie has taken on a new position at the theatre where she works. She is now the head of development, otherwise known as fundraising. Ocean was able to procure from CJ an invite to Frank’s house for a small party, so that Sophie could rub elbows with some of the more wealthy residents of Santa Barbara.

Only the party doesn’t go as planned. Suddenly the Marigold Cottages residents find themselves in the midst of another murder mystery. Hopefully this time they will actually pin the murder on the correct person.

Definitely read book one before book two. I can’t stress that enough. While this book does give a bit of a look back to the first, you won’t really understand the wackiness of a mismatched group of cottage residents trying to solve a murder without having read the first book. That being said, definitely read it! You cannot help but love these people. While they are not above bending the truth a bit to serve the greater good, their hearts are completely in the right places.

Jo Nichols is apparently a husband/wife writing team who churn out fabulous cozy mysteries. While the premise of these books is utterly far-fetched, they are completely enjoyable and fun. Some of us don’t read for realism, we read for escape, and this book satisfies that. I simply cannot wait for the next installment.

Pick up book number one and you’ll be ready for number two before you know it.

[Dianne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I discovered The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective via NetGalley last year. I really enjoyed it and was hoping or more time with the residents of the Marigold Cottages. I was happy to see Murder on Charity Lane is coming out later this year and jumped at the chance to read the arc.

Murder on Charity Lane takes place 6 months after the first book. All seems calm and peaceful at the Marigold Cottages. Lily-Ann and Anthony are dating, and Sophie and Nicholas are taking their relationship to the next level and moving in together.

Mrs. B sets Ocean up with CJ, who she met at the YMCA. CJ works for elderly millionaire Frank as his live-in personal assistant. When Frank dies after taking a tumble down the stairs at a party, his wife claims she saw CJ push him. CJ now needs to prove her innocence, and she also needs to place to live, as she’s been kicked out of Frank’s mansion.

Mrs. B offers CJ Sophie’s old home, and the residents of the Marigold Cottages band together to clear CJ’s name.

This is another fun book staring the kooky cast of characters who call the cottages home. I value my privacy and I don’t know my own neighbors very well, but I wouldn’t mind living in one of the Marigold Cottages and hanging out with its residents.

There are a lot of characters to keep straight, but I didn’t find it difficult, as most of them were first introduced in The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective. The book is told in multiple points of view, which I don’t mind. I did get a little annoyed that Sophie’s chapters are told in the first person while the others are told in the third. Perhaps it’s because Sophie is a playwright, and she’s writing about the murders, however, it doesn’t seem necessary, as the book isn’t her play.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the arc.

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for the ARC of Murder on Charity Lane by Jo Nichols.

I’m not sure if I said this after book one, but honestly, everyone deserves a Mrs. B in their life… or maybe just in fiction because a well-meaning, incredibly nosy neighbor might be a lot in real life. Either way, she continues to completely steal the show for me. The Marigold Cottages crew is back, and returning to this quirky little found family felt like catching up with old friends.

This time, the Marigold Cottage Murder Collective is trying to untangle the suspicious death of a wealthy older man, and just like in the first book, absolutely nothing is as straightforward as it initially seems. One thing I really enjoy about this series is that while it has all the cozy mystery charm — eccentric neighbors, group texts, meddling sleuths, humor, and heart — the mysteries themselves still manage to have surprising layers and twists.

The real strength of this series continues to be the characters and their relationships with each other. I love how each member of the group brings something different to the investigation, even when they’re occasionally bumbling their way through it. Mrs. B matchmaking, meddling, and dragging everyone into another mystery is honestly half the fun.

I also really appreciate the found family dynamic throughout the series. The friendships and growing bonds between the residents of Marigold Cottages give the books such a warm, comforting feel while still keeping the mystery engaging.

Overall, this is such a fun cozy mystery series with lovable characters, humor, heart, and layered mysteries. I really hope Jo Nichols continues the Marigold Cottages books because I’d happily keep returning to this wonderfully chaotic group of neighbors.

[Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on Charity Lane is the second book in Jo Nichols Marigold Cottage Collective series. It’s charming, cute, and fun with an obvious murder suspect who doesn’t seem like a murderer at all - at least to the quirky residents of the Marigold Cottages.

The decedent’s wife feels differently, but as the only eyewitness who claim that C.J. pushed her husband Frank down the stairs, there’s plenty of room left to investigate.

Frank’s old age and failing health could have caused him to lose his balance. He could have been drugged, he could have slipped on ice found at the top of the stairs. The group is willing to consider anything to exonerate their new friend. But even they become stumped when another murder happens and C.J. goes missing (except Lily-Ann, of course).

The characters are still fun, and the fact that they are all so different from one another but yet have each other’s backs along with deep friendships is endearing.

It’s been since before the first book was actually released since I read the first book, but I enjoyed it more because the relationships the readers see in this book are forming in the first book, creating more interesting dynamics than the established relationships they have here.

Nichols also doesn’t do much of a recap on characters, they just kind of plunk you down in the latest caper. That being said, a reader should read the first book in the series before this one, because otherwise it will be spoiled.

This is a fun cozy mystery for people who like their whodunnit high on character interactions and low in grit and gore. I think the first book is better, but this book was enjoyable too.

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Marcia · Rating 4 out of 5]

The most important recommendation I must make is reading book one in this series is vital to your enjoyment of this one. everything will make much more sense and the characters will come more fully alive if you do that. Jumping in with this one first will leave you with way more questions than answers.
I love the way most of the characters, and this is an almost completely character driven story, are becoming so much stronger, both as individuals and as a group. Each is doing so much more as they find and accept who they are, growing into their strengths. Mystery-wise, the plot wends around a lot until the final third of the book when it really takes off.
Ocean has met CJ and gone on a few dates when CJ is accused of murdering her boss. Neither Ocean nor Mrs. B. owner of Marigold Cottages and mother hen to all she knows and cares for, believe it to be true. When CJ is kicked out of the house where she has lived Mrs. B invites her to move into the cottage Sophie just vacated. No worries, Sophie moved in with Nicholas. Now the Marigold Cottages Murder Collective has a new mystery to solve and solve it they do, in their own unique way.
A really strong last third of the book saved my rating. I struggled with the book for the first two thirds, but still liked what it. I just felt like the investigation was going in circles, but once there was truly something important on the line for these characters, the story kicked into high gear and things took off.
If you read book one, you will enjoy this one. If you haven't read The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective, get it read, then jump into this one!
My thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for the opportunity to read an early copy of this in exchange for my honest thoughts.

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

The followup to the first Marigold Cottages book is just as quirky and unique and surprising as the first one, with the same full cast of entertaining and busybody characters, led by Mrs. B. The continually shifting viewpoints between so many characters is harder to follow for me in ways, and I still don't understand why Sophie's viewpoint is the only one told from first person, whereas the others are third person, though I do enjoy everyone's personalities and what they bring to the mystery and the neighborhood dynamic. I think I missed while reading the first book last year that Jo Nichols is the pen name for a husband-and-wife writing team, which brings a fun perspective to the characters as well, knowing that they're written by multiple people (though I'm not sure who writes whom or if they stick to certain characters). I really grew fond of Lily-Ann in this book and her no-nonsense, matter-of-fact approach to everything, as well as her still blossoming relationship with Anthony, whose texting skills definitely added some humor to the storyline! The authors do a great job of slowly moving the plot forward, after building a good foundation before the murder(s) occur, although there was one very glaring clue that stood out towards the end before the who-dun-it was revealed, so it wasn't a surprise for me. The lines are still a bit morally gray in this one, and maybe reality is pushed again a bit, but still an entertaining and unique "cozy" murdery mystery!

Content: A few F bombs, LGBTQ+ representation

***I'm grateful to the publisher, who sent me a digital copy of this book via NetGalley. All opinions in this review are my own.***

[Joan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review of Uncorrected Digital Galley

Peace and calm once again permeates Marigold Cottages, but it doesn’t last too long. CJ is accused of pushing her wealthy employer down the stairs to his death. But Mrs. B. believes she is innocent, even though Frank’s wife insists she saw CJ push Frank.

Can Mrs. B. and the Marigold Cottage folks prove CJ’s innocence? And can they identify the true murderer?

=========

Second in the author’s Marigold Cottages Murders series, this story brings back all the expected characters and provides sufficient backstory for the book to work as a standalone. With a second murder, the group of people living in the cottages come together to find a way to find the true culprit. There’s a strong family component here; the cottage residents consider themselves family and come together to solve the crime.

Told from alternating points of view, the unfolding story offers readers some surprising revelations and some unexpected plot twists to keep them guessing. The strength in the telling of this tale is in the disparate group of residents at the cottages who have formed themselves into a family; readers hearts will smile as they work together.

Readers who enjoy cozy mysteries, quirky characters, and a tantalizing mystery will find much to appreciate here.

Highly recommended.

I received a free copy of this eBook from St. Martin’s Press / Minotaur Books and NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving this review.
#MurderonCharityLane #NetGalley

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I went into this one without reading the first book, and I wasn’t sure if I’d feel lost—but I really didn’t. It took a minute to get everyone straight, but once I did, I was in.

This picks up about six months after the first book, and everything at Marigold Cottages feels calm… a little too calm. Of course that doesn’t last long. When CJ is accused of pushing her wealthy employer down the stairs, Mrs. B immediately decides she’s innocent—based on nothing but a feeling—and pulls everyone together to prove it.

Mrs. B is honestly my favorite part of this whole book. She’s feisty, loyal, and the kind of person who just decides you’re hers and will go to bat for you no matter what. The whole group has that found-family vibe, and I found myself thinking I wouldn’t mind living there… even with all the murder happening.

There are a lot of characters and multiple points of view, but it didn’t feel confusing. The only thing that threw me a little was Sophie’s chapters being in first person while everyone else is in third. I get what the author was trying to do, but it didn’t feel totally necessary to me.

The mystery itself kept me interested, and I liked that just when I thought I had it figured out, it shifted. That second murder? Did not see that coming.

Overall, this was just a really fun, easy-to-read cozy mystery with humor, a great cast of characters, and a fresh feel to it. It definitely made me want to go back and read the first book.

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Murder on Charity Lane by Jo Nichols

Jo Nichols has once again created a charming, magical community where readers will want to linger long after the mystery is solved. The cottages on Charity Lane are much more than a collection of homes they are a true community where every resident feels seen, valued, respected for their individuality, and supported by their neighbors. The warmth and camaraderie among the characters remain one of the series’ greatest strengths.

This time, the close-knit group is drawn into another investigation when the newest resident finds herself accused of murdering her longtime boss. As suspicions mount, the residents of Charity Lane rally around her, determined to uncover the truth. Their amateur sleuthing leads to plenty of twists, red herrings, and revelations along the way.

What I particularly enjoy about this series is how the mystery is balanced with themes of friendship, belonging, second chances, and community. The characters feel genuine, and their relationships continue to deepen with each installment. The setting itself almost becomes a character, providing a cozy backdrop that contrasts nicely with the darker elements of the crime.

While the mystery kept me engaged, it was the heart of the story the supportive relationships, quirky residents, and sense of found family that made this book especially enjoyable. Fans of cozy mysteries with memorable characters and a strong community atmosphere will find much to love here.

[Kate Baxter · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in this feel-good cozy mystery filled with a wonderful cast of quirky characters.

Widowed Mrs. B. owns the Marigold Cottages which lie just minutes from the Pacific coastline. She has a tendency to lease a few of her units at below market rates as she is more concerned that her tenants are sympatico than she is about raking in the profits. One of her YMCA regulars is suddenly out of a job and in need of housing. Dare we mention that she's also just been accused of murdering her boss? Mrs. B. believes it to pure hogwash. Regardless, there's nothing like a fresh murder to gather the amateur sleuths of Marigold Cottages to exonerate sweet CJ.

Ms. Nichols has crafted a sweet and endearing mystery. The writing is solid. The scene settings are well described. Each character is unique, quirky, and well developed. The idiosyncrasies of each character are rather amusing and warm one's heart. The mystery is richly layered with a number of red herrings. This was definitely a delightful diversion.

I am grateful to the Jo Nichols author duo and their publisher, Minotaur Books for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.


Publisher: Minotaur Books
Publication date: August 18, 2026
Number of Pages: 352
ISBN: 978-1250356574

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
I was a big fan of the first Marigold Cottages Murder book, The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective, and have been eagerly awaiting the next book in the series, Murder on Charity Lane. In it we return to the idyllic Marigold Cottages and the neighbors that have become friends. After a mysterious death during a party at a Santa Barbara mansion the group comes together to try to figure out what happened.

First, I love this group so much! They just click and it’s so fun to read. The way they work together and each have skills to contribute really works. I love how they help each other, and their group texts are the best! I also appreciated that although it was clear that some of them have deeper underlying issues, there isn’t a big deal made out of it, you sense it from reading their point of view, but it’s not called out expressly.

This book had a great balance of mystery, the found-family story, and the romance happening between the different characters (Lily-Ann and Anthony are the best!). I liked that the story wasn’t focused only on solving the mystery.

I would like to say a sincere thank you to the publisher St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books, author Jo Nichols, and NetGalley for the gifted digital ARC provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

[Marty Tool · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you haven't read the first book, do so, it will enrich the total reading experience. I love the growth of these characters from the first book, and will miss them until hopefully another book comes out. As the edition begins it has been six months from the ending of the Marigold Mystery, and I appreciated it just went onward without a lot of catching the reader up as to who is who. The relationships and team work of working together to solve another mystery is a huge part of this cozy mystery. I suspect even Detective Enible might someday come asking for help in solving a murder mystery, he sees the quirky group as a collective of information and how they get to the solving is credible, even though he knows they hold important information back from him, but he gets the credit and in this case a multiple killer wrapped up. It was interesting that the death at the beginning of the book is questionable about accident or homicide, but it all comes together with second death. It is then that collective group really comes together with each person advancing it along. Told by multiple POVs it becomes endearing and intelligent thought processes. Well written with the advancing of each characters growth, I thoroughly enjoyed this edition from NetGalley and the publishers for an early read.

[Boshi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This series was my first real dip into cozy murder mysteries, and there was a lot to like about the reading experience.

I enjoyed how the story builds and unfolds as the chapters progress. The shorter chapters also made it feel quick and easy to pick up, and I liked the multi-POV approach. Getting to see different perspectives added variety and helped the small-town/community feel come alive.

Speaking of which, I really loved the cast of characters and their little community. That cozy, familiar vibe was easily the strongest part for me, and it’s what makes me interested in continuing with the series.

Where this one lost me a bit was the ending. Specifically the moment where the truth of the murder is revealed. After such a strong build-up, the final reveal felt like a letdown for me, especially compared to the first book in the series (which I enjoyed a lot more and rated 4 stars). I wanted the conclusion to hit with a little more punch, given how much momentum the story had.

Even so, I’d still give the next one a shot. The series has a lot going for it, and I’m hoping the next installment delivers a more satisfying payoff.

Thank you to St. Martin's Press | Minotaur Books for this digital ARC!

[Jessica Pendergraft · Rating 2 out of 5]

The premise of this book is undeniably charming, especially for readers who enjoy a quirky, crime-solving ensemble cast. There’s a lot of potential in bringing together a mismatched group of characters, and it’s clear the story aims to lean into that appeal. Unfortunately, the execution doesn’t quite live up to the promise.

The characters, while numerous, lack the depth needed to make them feel distinct or engaging. Their personalities blur together, and the repeated use of the same style of “witty” one-liners quickly becomes predictable rather than clever. What should have added humor and charm instead starts to feel formulaic, making it easy to anticipate dialogue before it happens.

The pacing also struggles under the weight of too many side storylines. Rather than enriching the narrative, these detours pull focus away from the central plot, slowing its development and diluting its impact. The result is a story that feels scattered, as if it’s trying to do too much without fully committing to any one thread.

Ultimately, this is a case where an overabundance of characters and subplots detracts from what could have been a tight, engaging mystery. The concept is appealing, but the lack of focus and character depth makes it difficult to stay invested in the story being told.

[Deb · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

If The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective charmed you last year, you will love this follow-up. Months after the shocking events at Marigold Cottages, the irrepressible Mrs. B finds the peace and quiet a little too peaceful, and invites her young friend CJ Moore to move into a vacant cottage, even though CJ is a suspect in the death of her employer, a wealthy Santa Barbara philanthropist who tumbled down the stairs of his mansion during a dinner party. Cue the Murder Collective reassembling with their signature mix of enthusiasm, eccentricity, and questionable investigative methods.

The mystery itself is genuinely fun — twisty enough to keep you guessing without ever feeling overly complicated. But honestly, the plot is almost beside the point. Lily-Ann marshaling the facts, Hamilton digging around online, Sophie and Nicholas navigating their relationship, and everyone hoping Ocean can keep Mrs. B out of trouble — these characters and the warmth between them are what make this series so irresistible. You root for them not just to solve the crime, but to simply keep being themselves together.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Sandy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mrs. B and the tenants of Marigold Cottages are back again for another murder mystery! This time a friend of Mrs. B, CJ Moore is accused of killing her wealthy employer. His widow has accused CJ of pushing him down the stairs and when another witness confirms this fact, it looks like CJ will be arrested and going to prison. As the tenants gather for another meeting of their murder club to help solve the case, the lead detective is wary to be involved in yet another case with the murder club, who he publicly declares to be amateur detectives yet secretly appreciates their insight. So, did kill CJ's employer? Why was he killed? And when another murder happens, is it related?

This is a fun cozy mystery filled with quirky lovable characters. The characters are the best part of this series. The relationships and the antics are fun reading. The mystery is written with enough twists and turns, to make it enjoyable. Although, each book is stand-alone, I recommend you start with the first book to really get to know the characters at the Marigold Cottages. Enjoyable read, good mystery, with great characters, don't miss this one. Thanks to Net Galley and St. Martin's Press.

[Cari Zuckerman · Rating 4 out of 5]

After the events of the first book, the residents of Marigold Cottages are settling back into life- except now they are a close-knit group of friends. Sophie has moved in with Nicholas and Ocean is dating someone new after an introduction from Mrs. B. When CJ’s (Ocean’s new love interest) elderly, and very rich, employer falls down the stairs at a house party and dies, his widow points the finger at CJ. Soon the Marigold Cottages Murder Collective reconvenes to clear CJ’s name.

This fun and funny book brings back great characters from the last book and it’s enjoyable to see how their relationships have grown. Readers definitely need to start with the first book as there are spoilers here. I breezed through this mystery, with its short chapters, and had a great time with it. This is a cozy mystery series that deserves more buzz. The backdrop of Santa Barbara is vividly painted and this time we get a glimpse into the homes and lives of its wealthy residents. It’s got good pacing and some actually funny jokes, a lovable cast of characters and a great sense of place.

As I mentioned, start with the first book and then move on to this one. Both would be great poolside reads!

[Caitlin C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun read. Second in the series, it picks up with the same quirky crew from the Marigold Cottages. I did not read the first in the series, but I wish I did. I feel like I missed out on a lot from the firs.t That being said, the characters are funny, zany and loveable.

It seems like there was a lot of character development that occurred in the first book. I loved the back and forth between the characters, which were more like family than neighbors. You can feel the genuine affection that they have for one another through their text conversation and POV's. The book is told from the view point of a couple different character, but the chapters flow well, and there is not the confusion that sometimes comes from different POV's.

This time, the murder does not occur at the cottages, but at the work and residence of Ocean's possible soon to be girlfriend. Mrs. B takes the opportunity to launch into another investigation.

I am looking forward to another in this series, and I plan to go back and read the first book.

Thank you to NetGalley and Minotaur Books for an ARC of this book.

[Ashley (aneverendingbookstack) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a perfectly crafted cozy mystery—clever, charming, and completely absorbing from the very first page. Murder on Charity Lane delivers exactly what I want from the genre: a tight-knit setting, a compelling mystery, and a main character you can’t help but root for as she stumbles her way through clues, suspicion, and small-town secrets.

The atmosphere is a standout. Charity Lane feels like one of those places where everyone knows everyone—but no one is exactly who they seem. I loved how the author slowly peeled back layers of the community, revealing hidden tensions and secrets that kept me guessing right up to the reveal.

The pacing was spot-on, balancing lighthearted moments with just enough suspense to keep the stakes feeling real without ever becoming overwhelming. The mystery itself was satisfyingly layered, with clues that clicked into place in a way that felt earned rather than convenient.

Overall, this is a warm, twisty, and thoroughly enjoyable whodunit. A perfect read for cozy mystery lovers who enjoy charm with their murder and a protagonist who makes the journey just as fun as the mystery itself.

[Maine Colonial · Rating 4 out of 5]

This followup to The Marigold Cottages Murder Collective finds the residents of Santa Barbara’s quaint Marigold Cottages investigating another murder at the insistence of their eccentric landlady, Mrs. B. The dead man is Frank, a super wealthy elderly man, who died in a fall at the end of a party at his oceanfront house. His wife, Karina, insists that she saw Frank’s longtime assistant, CJ, push him down the stairs. Mrs. B., who knows CJ from the YMCA, insists that CJ must be innocent, and she dragoons all the residents into her quest to prove CJ’s innocence.

If you’ve ever read Armistead Maupin’s Tales of the City series, the Marigold Cottages setup may remind you a little of those books because of the larger-than-life landlady and the younger residents with their complicated love lives. Of course, you need to add in a murder mystery. This one plays out with a few red herrings and a nicely dramatic climactic revelation—or two. If you’re in the mood for a cozy mystery set in sunny Santa Barbara, this is a good pick. I strongly recommend you read the first book before this one. This provides not just a good read, but the backstories of this ensemble cast of characters.

[Suzanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have not read the first in this series, although I plan to rectify that after reading this one, because I found the characters interesting, three-dimensional, and likeable. Mrs. B is the feisty landlady of Marigold Cottages and she tends to collect...ermm, choose...interesting tenants. She is also a champion of her friends/tenants. In that regard, she becomes determined to prove her friend's innocence after Elsa is accused (by his widow!) of murdering her employer. Mrs. B believes that Elsa is not guilty, so she and her brigade of tenants begin investigating. As the book progresses, puzzle pieces start fitting, but there are twists that I didn't see coming, including a second murder...didn't see that coming! I liked this book because there is plenty of humor and there are modern elements/diversity that are not so often seen in cozy mysteries. I recommend it and will hope for more in this series.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for sending this book for review consideration. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all opinions are my own.