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Murder on the Set: An Amanda Pennyworth Mystery
MURDER ON THE SET: An Amanda Pennyworth Mystery
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
When Hollywood glamour collides with murder in paradise, only one woman can untangle the deadly web of secrets
The sun-drenched shores of Puerto Vallarta become a glittering stage when a renowned film production company descends on the Mexican resort city. Amanda Pennyworth, the sharp-witted American Consul, is tasked with smoothing relations between the celebrity crew and local authorities, a role that promises excitement and prestige.
But the dream quickly becomes a nightmare.
Within days, an American expat working as a film extra is found brutally murdered. Before Amanda can process the horror, the victim's wife is bludgeoned to death. With the local police intimidated by Hollywood glamour and baffled by the maze of egos and alibis, Amanda is thrust into a high-stakes investigation where every smile hides potential malice.
As bodies pile up and tensions mount, Amanda faces her own crucible: her idyllic assignment is ending, and her next diplomatic post may send her into one of the world's most dangerous conflict zones. With her professional future hanging in the balance and a ruthless killer still at large, she must navigate treacherous waters both personal and professional.
The clock is ticking. The killer is watching. And Amanda's next move could be her last.
Perfect for fans of Louise Penny, Donna Leon, and classic diplomatic mysteries with exotic settings,
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
James Burkhart Gilbert is a Distinguished University Professor Emeritus whose remarkable transition from acclaimed historian to masterful mystery novelist proves that the best storytellers never retire, they simply change genres.
Gilbert's distinguished academic career at the University of Maryland produced eleven celebrated history texts, including Perfect Cities, named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year in 1986. His scholarly expertise in American intellectual and cultural history, combined with extensive international teaching appointments across Europe and Australia, provided him with the rich cultural perspective and narrative craft that now define his fiction.
Since embracing his lifelong passion for literature, Gilbert has published eight novels, including four mysteries in the acclaimed Amanda Pennyworth series, two short story collections, a gripping legal thriller set in Chicago, and a powerful family drama. His work seamlessly blends his historian's eye for authentic detail with a novelist's gift for psychological complexity and page-turning suspense.
A Chicago native educated at Carleton College and the University of Wisconsin, Gilbert brings a lifetime of observation, travel, and intellectual curiosity to every page. When not crafting his next mystery, he indulges his love of music as an amateur cellist.
His unique background as both scholar and storyteller creates mysteries that are as intellectually satisfying as they are impossible to put down.
BOOK DESCRIPTION:
When Hollywood glamour collides with murder in paradise, only one woman can untangle the deadly web of secrets
The sun-drenched shores of Puerto Vallarta become a glittering stage when a renowned film production company descends on the Mexican resort city. Amanda Pennyworth, the sharp-witted American Consul, is tasked with smoothing relations between the celebrity crew and local authorities, a role that promises excitement and prestige.
But the dream quickly becomes a nightmare.
Within days, an American expat working as a film extra is found brutally murdered. Before Amanda can process the horror, the victim's wife is bludgeoned to death. With the local police intimidated by Hollywood glamour and baffled by the maze of egos and alibis, Amanda is thrust into a high-stakes investigation where every smile hides potential malice.
As bodies pile up and tensions mount, Amanda faces her own crucible: her idyllic assignment is ending, and her next diplomatic post may send her into one of the world's most dangerous conflict zones. With her professional future hanging in the balance and a ruthless killer still at large, she must navigate treacherous waters both personal and professional.
The clock is ticking. The killer is watching. And Amanda's next move could be her last.
Perfect for fans of Louise Penny, Donna Leon, and classic diplomatic mysteries with exotic settings,
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
James Burkhart Gilbert is a Distinguished University Professor Emeritus whose remarkable transition from acclaimed historian to masterful mystery novelist proves that the best storytellers never retire, they simply change genres.
Gilbert's distinguished academic career at the University of Maryland produced eleven celebrated history texts, including Perfect Cities, named a New York Times Notable Book of the Year in 1986. His scholarly expertise in American intellectual and cultural history, combined with extensive international teaching appointments across Europe and Australia, provided him with the rich cultural perspective and narrative craft that now define his fiction.
Since embracing his lifelong passion for literature, Gilbert has published eight novels, including four mysteries in the acclaimed Amanda Pennyworth series, two short story collections, a gripping legal thriller set in Chicago, and a powerful family drama. His work seamlessly blends his historian's eye for authentic detail with a novelist's gift for psychological complexity and page-turning suspense.
A Chicago native educated at Carleton College and the University of Wisconsin, Gilbert brings a lifetime of observation, travel, and intellectual curiosity to every page. When not crafting his next mystery, he indulges his love of music as an amateur cellist.
His unique background as both scholar and storyteller creates mysteries that are as intellectually satisfying as they are impossible to put down.
- GenresMystery
243 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 13, 2026
About the author
James Gilbert
8 books44 followers I always wanted (and intended) to write fiction but I had to wait beyond a profession in academics to begin my second life as a novelist. As a historian, I published ten books on American culture, and I was fortunate enough to spend a number of years as visiting professor in Europe and Australia. This was immensely satisfying, but it still didn't fulfill my desire to write imaginative works--to be free from the objectivity demanded by the history profession.
Toward the end of my academic career, I began to become aware--painfully aware--of the limitations of historical writing, and I turned to fiction because of its ability to imagine (without footnotes) the interior thoughts, motivations, and expression of character.
I began my new career cautiously. My first venture was a self-published book of short stories, entitled, SECRETS AND STRANGERS. This was really an apprenticeship for my next book entitled THE KEY PARTY (a satire on the golf community where I grew up).
My next novel, ZONA ROMANTICA, was published in the spring of 2020 with the amateur sleuth, Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Completely different from my first novel, it is a mystery in an exotic, but familiar setting.
A third novel appeared in October, 2020, entitled TALES OF LITTLE EGYPT. This was a new genre of writing for me and took the unusual format of thirteen integrated stories about imaginary characters who lived in Marion, Illinois at the turn of the 19th Century, in the unique area called "Little Egypt."
Following that, I returned to writing mysteries, and published MURDER AT THE OLYMPIAD, also set in Puerto Vallarta and with the same sleuth as ZONA ROMANTICA.
The third book in this Amanda Pennyworth series, and appearing just now is MURDER AT AMAPAS BEACH.
And finally, there is a new work in the Pennyworth series entitled: MURDER ON THE SET.
All of my novels, (and I think necessarily), reflect my experiences and memories disguised and re-imagined by fiction. TALES OF LITTLE EGYPT, for example, is loosely based upon my childhood summers spent in Southern Illinois, and the extended family which is my heritage there. And the mystery series set in Puerto Vallarta is based on several trips to that popular tourist destination and my fascination with the mixture of cultures (Mexican and American) that define this vacation Mecca. It seemed to me the perfect setting involving a sleuth who must navigate between two cultures to solve a crime.
Toward the end of my academic career, I began to become aware--painfully aware--of the limitations of historical writing, and I turned to fiction because of its ability to imagine (without footnotes) the interior thoughts, motivations, and expression of character.
I began my new career cautiously. My first venture was a self-published book of short stories, entitled, SECRETS AND STRANGERS. This was really an apprenticeship for my next book entitled THE KEY PARTY (a satire on the golf community where I grew up).
My next novel, ZONA ROMANTICA, was published in the spring of 2020 with the amateur sleuth, Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Completely different from my first novel, it is a mystery in an exotic, but familiar setting.
A third novel appeared in October, 2020, entitled TALES OF LITTLE EGYPT. This was a new genre of writing for me and took the unusual format of thirteen integrated stories about imaginary characters who lived in Marion, Illinois at the turn of the 19th Century, in the unique area called "Little Egypt."
Following that, I returned to writing mysteries, and published MURDER AT THE OLYMPIAD, also set in Puerto Vallarta and with the same sleuth as ZONA ROMANTICA.
The third book in this Amanda Pennyworth series, and appearing just now is MURDER AT AMAPAS BEACH.
And finally, there is a new work in the Pennyworth series entitled: MURDER ON THE SET.
All of my novels, (and I think necessarily), reflect my experiences and memories disguised and re-imagined by fiction. TALES OF LITTLE EGYPT, for example, is loosely based upon my childhood summers spent in Southern Illinois, and the extended family which is my heritage there. And the mystery series set in Puerto Vallarta is based on several trips to that popular tourist destination and my fascination with the mixture of cultures (Mexican and American) that define this vacation Mecca. It seemed to me the perfect setting involving a sleuth who must navigate between two cultures to solve a crime.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
April 7, 2026
I've read approximately four thousand cozy mysteries in my lifetime, and Murder on the Set is a perfectly serviceable entry into the canon. The bones are solid: diplomatic protagonist, exotic locale, murdered expat, a satisfying Poirot style unmasking. Gilbert clearly knows the genre's rhythms and hits the expected beats competently. My issue is the predictability. Once Carl Williams and the plagiarism subplot entered the picture, I had Frank pegged as the killer by chapter nine. The love triangle between Amanda, Romero, and the spectre of her career is handled with more nuance than I expected, and credit where due, the Hamlet reference is clever. The prose occasionally overreaches. There are some sunsets described in this book that take a full paragraph to set. But Gilbert has a genuine ear for dialogue. For cozy veterans: familiar but enjoyable. For newcomers: a fine place to start.
January 19, 2026
This was a fast paced ride into Puerto Vallarta sleuthing a murder of an extra on an American movie set.
From the Mexican locals to the American expats, and even the dramatic British director with his crew and actors, readers will find themselves absorbed amongst a cast of colorful personalities that really bring the story and the city to life. While the killer may be obvious from the get go, you’ll still enjoy watching how it all unfolds.
Thanks to Atmosphere Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel!
From the Mexican locals to the American expats, and even the dramatic British director with his crew and actors, readers will find themselves absorbed amongst a cast of colorful personalities that really bring the story and the city to life. While the killer may be obvious from the get go, you’ll still enjoy watching how it all unfolds.
Thanks to Atmosphere Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this novel!
January 6, 2026
This novel followed an American Consul who has been requested to work with an American film crew to help navigate Puerto Vallarta and work alongside local authorities to ensure the smooth filming process.
During the filming, an extra on set is murdered and Amanda can’t let it go, she needs to find who murdered a local expat.
This novel was a quick easy read, it flowed nicely and kept you flipping pages to see whether they would find the killer. A beautiful story of taking control, choosing your own path and pushing for what you believe in. The setting description in Puerto Vallarta was beautifully descriptive too.
Thank you @atmospherepress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read this novel!
During the filming, an extra on set is murdered and Amanda can’t let it go, she needs to find who murdered a local expat.
This novel was a quick easy read, it flowed nicely and kept you flipping pages to see whether they would find the killer. A beautiful story of taking control, choosing your own path and pushing for what you believe in. The setting description in Puerto Vallarta was beautifully descriptive too.
Thank you @atmospherepress and @netgalley for the opportunity to read this novel!
January 6, 2026
This mystery is such a great read! Thrilling, great setting in Mexico and diabolical characters. Loved it! Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Murder on the Set: An Amanda Pennyworth Mystery by James Gilbert is a fast-paced, sun-soaked mystery with a dash of diplomatic intrigue. The setup is such a fun one: Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul in Puerto Vallarta, gets pulled into helping an American movie company film on location in her city. It’s already a juggling act—politics, permits, personalities, and the usual behind-the-scenes chaos. Then a murder hits mid-production, and suddenly Amanda’s job shifts from “please keep this production from becoming an international incident” to “please don’t let a killer walk away on the next flight out.”
What really worked for me was Gilbert’s writing style. It moves. The chapters keep you turning pages, and he makes the whole situation feel urgent without getting messy or confusing. I also loved the setting—Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a backdrop; it feels lived-in, and Amanda’s role as consul adds a layer that’s different from your typical amateur sleuth. She isn’t snooping just because she’s bored—she’s trying to keep people safe while also navigating optics and pressure from all sides. And that ticking clock (solve it before the crew heads back to the U.S.) keeps the tension humming.
Amanda is a great lead for this kind of story. She’s capable, observant, and feels like someone who’s used to handling problems… right up until the problem is a dead body and who has something to hide. I liked that she’s not written as a superhero. She has to think, ask the right questions, read the room, and make decisions that aren’t always comfortable. The “movie set” angle was also a blast—different personalities, egos, and agendas all colliding in one place, which is basically perfect fuel for a mystery.
My one big hang-up: I figured out the murderer right away. I’m usually pretty forgiving about that (honestly, sometimes it’s satisfying to be right), but here it was so early that I kept hoping for a twist that would completely flip my assumption. That said… I still had a good time reading it. The pacing and the atmosphere carried me through, and even when you suspect you know who, it’s still fun to watch Amanda pull the thread and see how it all unravels.
If you like mysteries with a strong sense of place, a smart and steady main character, and an unusual “day job” angle that actually matters to the plot, this one is definitely worth picking up—especially if you enjoy stories that feel like you’re watching a sharp little crime drama unfold in bright sunlight.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atmosphere Press for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
What really worked for me was Gilbert’s writing style. It moves. The chapters keep you turning pages, and he makes the whole situation feel urgent without getting messy or confusing. I also loved the setting—Puerto Vallarta isn’t just a backdrop; it feels lived-in, and Amanda’s role as consul adds a layer that’s different from your typical amateur sleuth. She isn’t snooping just because she’s bored—she’s trying to keep people safe while also navigating optics and pressure from all sides. And that ticking clock (solve it before the crew heads back to the U.S.) keeps the tension humming.
Amanda is a great lead for this kind of story. She’s capable, observant, and feels like someone who’s used to handling problems… right up until the problem is a dead body and who has something to hide. I liked that she’s not written as a superhero. She has to think, ask the right questions, read the room, and make decisions that aren’t always comfortable. The “movie set” angle was also a blast—different personalities, egos, and agendas all colliding in one place, which is basically perfect fuel for a mystery.
My one big hang-up: I figured out the murderer right away. I’m usually pretty forgiving about that (honestly, sometimes it’s satisfying to be right), but here it was so early that I kept hoping for a twist that would completely flip my assumption. That said… I still had a good time reading it. The pacing and the atmosphere carried me through, and even when you suspect you know who, it’s still fun to watch Amanda pull the thread and see how it all unravels.
If you like mysteries with a strong sense of place, a smart and steady main character, and an unusual “day job” angle that actually matters to the plot, this one is definitely worth picking up—especially if you enjoy stories that feel like you’re watching a sharp little crime drama unfold in bright sunlight.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atmosphere Press for the advance copy. All opinions are my own.
March 19, 2026
James Gilbert’s Murder on the Set drops Amanda Pennyworth, American consul, amateur sleuth, and increasingly conflicted woman, into a Puerto Vallarta movie production that begins as a logistical nuisance and turns into a double-murder investigation. A Hollywood crew arrives to film a glossy romance on location, Amanda is pulled in to smooth relations between studio egos and local authorities, and the novel steadily tightens from social comedy into a mystery about performance, authorship, and the things people will do to protect an invented version of themselves. The setup is clever on its face, but what gave it lift for me was the way the book makes the film set feel both seductive and faintly toxic, all bright surfaces and hairline cracks.
What I liked most was the book’s sense of place. Puerto Vallarta is not a pasted-on backdrop here; it has weather, texture, sidewalks, petty irritations, good coffee, bureaucracy, sea air, gossip, and the faint shimmer of a life Amanda may not want to leave. That local fullness gives the novel ballast. I also liked Amanda herself. She is observant without turning brittle, competent without becoming superhuman, and her interior conflict about duty, desire, and departure gives the mystery a second pulse. The book is at its best when it lets the investigation move through social nuance, class signals, artistic vanity, diplomatic tact, and expat performance. There is a pleasingly old-fashioned intelligence to that.
The novel unfolds with a deliberate, almost courtly pace that lets the tension gather naturally, and I found that measured rhythm one of its strengths. Rather than chasing constant shocks, it rewards patience with richer atmosphere, sharper character work, and a deeper satisfaction as the story gradually comes into focus. Gilbert writes in a way that is more measured than trendy, and the book’s pleasures come from the sharpened dialogue, the sly observations, the metafictional wrinkle in the case itself, and the growing realization that this is a murder story about fabrication in more than one sense. By the end, I felt the book had earned its composure.
I’d hand this to readers of traditional mystery, cozy-adjacent mystery, international mystery, and murder mystery with literary elements, especially anyone who enjoys sleuthing mixed with atmosphere and character rather than nonstop mayhem. It reminded me a little of Donna Leon, if she wandered onto a film set in coastal Mexico, and readers who like Louise Penny’s interest in psychology over pyrotechnics may also find something to admire. This is a polished, sea-breezed mystery that knows glamour is just another kind of disguise.
What I liked most was the book’s sense of place. Puerto Vallarta is not a pasted-on backdrop here; it has weather, texture, sidewalks, petty irritations, good coffee, bureaucracy, sea air, gossip, and the faint shimmer of a life Amanda may not want to leave. That local fullness gives the novel ballast. I also liked Amanda herself. She is observant without turning brittle, competent without becoming superhuman, and her interior conflict about duty, desire, and departure gives the mystery a second pulse. The book is at its best when it lets the investigation move through social nuance, class signals, artistic vanity, diplomatic tact, and expat performance. There is a pleasingly old-fashioned intelligence to that.
The novel unfolds with a deliberate, almost courtly pace that lets the tension gather naturally, and I found that measured rhythm one of its strengths. Rather than chasing constant shocks, it rewards patience with richer atmosphere, sharper character work, and a deeper satisfaction as the story gradually comes into focus. Gilbert writes in a way that is more measured than trendy, and the book’s pleasures come from the sharpened dialogue, the sly observations, the metafictional wrinkle in the case itself, and the growing realization that this is a murder story about fabrication in more than one sense. By the end, I felt the book had earned its composure.
I’d hand this to readers of traditional mystery, cozy-adjacent mystery, international mystery, and murder mystery with literary elements, especially anyone who enjoys sleuthing mixed with atmosphere and character rather than nonstop mayhem. It reminded me a little of Donna Leon, if she wandered onto a film set in coastal Mexico, and readers who like Louise Penny’s interest in psychology over pyrotechnics may also find something to admire. This is a polished, sea-breezed mystery that knows glamour is just another kind of disguise.
January 18, 2026
Murder on the Set is a wonderfully engaging mystery that blends the glitz of a Hollywood film crew with the charm and tension of a classic whodunnit. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Puerto Vallarta, the story follows Amanda Pennyworth — American Consul, reluctant fixer, and the only person willing to keep her head while everyone around her is losing theirs.
What begins as a glamorous assignment quickly spirals into chaos when an expat extra is brutally murdered, followed by his wife. The contrast between the sparkling resort setting and the dark, unsettling crimes gives the book a compelling energy. The local police are overwhelmed by the star‑studded production, and Amanda’s steady presence becomes essential as she’s pulled deeper into the investigation.
Amanda is a fantastic lead — intelligent, composed, and quietly resourceful, yet juggling her own uncertainties as her posting nears its end and a potentially dangerous new assignment looms. Her personal crossroads adds emotional depth to the unfolding mystery, grounding the story in something more human than just clues and suspects.
The Hollywood crew brings plenty of colour: egos, secrets, shifting alliances, and the sense that everyone is performing, even off‑camera. The author uses this beautifully, keeping the reader guessing who’s hiding what and why. The pacing is brisk, the twists land neatly, and the final reveal is satisfying without feeling over‑the‑top.
Atmospheric, clever, and full of sun‑soaked intrigue, Murder on the Set is a thoroughly enjoyable mystery perfect for readers who love crime fiction with a strong sense of place and a heroine worth rooting for.
With thanks to James Gilbert, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
What begins as a glamorous assignment quickly spirals into chaos when an expat extra is brutally murdered, followed by his wife. The contrast between the sparkling resort setting and the dark, unsettling crimes gives the book a compelling energy. The local police are overwhelmed by the star‑studded production, and Amanda’s steady presence becomes essential as she’s pulled deeper into the investigation.
Amanda is a fantastic lead — intelligent, composed, and quietly resourceful, yet juggling her own uncertainties as her posting nears its end and a potentially dangerous new assignment looms. Her personal crossroads adds emotional depth to the unfolding mystery, grounding the story in something more human than just clues and suspects.
The Hollywood crew brings plenty of colour: egos, secrets, shifting alliances, and the sense that everyone is performing, even off‑camera. The author uses this beautifully, keeping the reader guessing who’s hiding what and why. The pacing is brisk, the twists land neatly, and the final reveal is satisfying without feeling over‑the‑top.
Atmospheric, clever, and full of sun‑soaked intrigue, Murder on the Set is a thoroughly enjoyable mystery perfect for readers who love crime fiction with a strong sense of place and a heroine worth rooting for.
With thanks to James Gilbert, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Read on Netgalley.
Murder On The Set is a beautifully descripted and tense murder mystery set in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. We follow our wonderful heroine Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul for the city as she deals with a movie studio set that is filming a romantic production. Almost immediately things begin to go wrong, including the body of an extra being found on the beach. Now Amanda, who is contemplating the details of a new Consul assignment, is called upon to help the police solve the murder, before they can strike again.
I was blown away by the story and especially the writing. James Gilbert's descriptions of Puerto Vallarta from the hotels, beaches, and streets, to Amanda's apartment and office were so detailed that I could perfectly imagine them in my mind. Amanda herself is a wonderfully written character and I felt both love and anxiety for her struggles throughout the novel. There were also characters that I despised with a passion and admire Gilbert for writing such characters that made my blood boil, alongside other great characters who Amanda interacts with like Nando and Sergeant Perez, who I greatly enjoyed.
The murder mystery itself had me questioning everyone on every page. The more people who were introduced, the more I questioned who did it. The little pieces of information that we are given, helped keeping me tense and always guessing.
A wonderful 5 star read.
Murder On The Set is a beautifully descripted and tense murder mystery set in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. We follow our wonderful heroine Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul for the city as she deals with a movie studio set that is filming a romantic production. Almost immediately things begin to go wrong, including the body of an extra being found on the beach. Now Amanda, who is contemplating the details of a new Consul assignment, is called upon to help the police solve the murder, before they can strike again.
I was blown away by the story and especially the writing. James Gilbert's descriptions of Puerto Vallarta from the hotels, beaches, and streets, to Amanda's apartment and office were so detailed that I could perfectly imagine them in my mind. Amanda herself is a wonderfully written character and I felt both love and anxiety for her struggles throughout the novel. There were also characters that I despised with a passion and admire Gilbert for writing such characters that made my blood boil, alongside other great characters who Amanda interacts with like Nando and Sergeant Perez, who I greatly enjoyed.
The murder mystery itself had me questioning everyone on every page. The more people who were introduced, the more I questioned who did it. The little pieces of information that we are given, helped keeping me tense and always guessing.
A wonderful 5 star read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Murder on the Set introduces Amanda Pennyworth, the American Consul in Puerto Vallarta, who finds herself entangled in a murder mystery involving a film crew. The narrative blends elements of intrigue, cultural insights, and personal dilemmas, particularly as Amanda grapples with her impending transfer to a more dangerous post.
Gilbert vividly portrays Puerto Vallarta, making the locale almost a character in its own right. The descriptions of the vibrant culture and the tension of the film industry add depth to the story. Amanda is relatable, balancing her professional duties with personal challenges, including a budding romance and the pressures of her job. The mystery unfolds at a gripping pace, with twists that keep readers guessing about the motives behind the murder. At times, the narrative can feel a bit slow as it delves into Amanda's internal conflicts, potentially detracting from the suspense. Some supporting characters may come off as clichéd, particularly the Hollywood types, which can feel predictable. Murder on the Set is a compelling read for mystery lovers, especially those who appreciate a blend of personal stakes and cultural commentary. It effectively sets the stage for future installments in Amanda Pennyworth's journey, making it a worthwhile addition to the genre.
Gilbert vividly portrays Puerto Vallarta, making the locale almost a character in its own right. The descriptions of the vibrant culture and the tension of the film industry add depth to the story. Amanda is relatable, balancing her professional duties with personal challenges, including a budding romance and the pressures of her job. The mystery unfolds at a gripping pace, with twists that keep readers guessing about the motives behind the murder. At times, the narrative can feel a bit slow as it delves into Amanda's internal conflicts, potentially detracting from the suspense. Some supporting characters may come off as clichéd, particularly the Hollywood types, which can feel predictable. Murder on the Set is a compelling read for mystery lovers, especially those who appreciate a blend of personal stakes and cultural commentary. It effectively sets the stage for future installments in Amanda Pennyworth's journey, making it a worthwhile addition to the genre.
February 8, 2026
This mystery delivers a clever, sun-soaked twist on the classic whodunit by dropping Hollywood glamour straight into the middle of a brutal crime. The contrast between Puerto Vallarta’s beauty, the artifice of a romantic film set, and the sudden violence of murder creates an atmosphere that’s both seductive and unsettling.
Amanda Pennyworth is a compelling protagonist smart, capable, and quietly conflicted. Her role as American Consul gives her just enough authority to push into uncomfortable spaces, while her looming reassignment adds genuine emotional stakes to the investigation. I especially appreciated how the story explores power dynamics: local police constrained by celebrity influence, expats who don’t quite belong, and a film crew insulated by fame and money.
The pacing is tight, the setting vivid, and the mystery unfolds in a way that keeps you guessing without losing sight of Amanda’s personal crossroads. This isn’t just about catching a killer; it’s about choosing a future when everything feels uncertain.
A sharp, atmospheric mystery that blends intrigue, setting, and character with confidence.
krichauffamelieauthor@gmail.com
Amanda Pennyworth is a compelling protagonist smart, capable, and quietly conflicted. Her role as American Consul gives her just enough authority to push into uncomfortable spaces, while her looming reassignment adds genuine emotional stakes to the investigation. I especially appreciated how the story explores power dynamics: local police constrained by celebrity influence, expats who don’t quite belong, and a film crew insulated by fame and money.
The pacing is tight, the setting vivid, and the mystery unfolds in a way that keeps you guessing without losing sight of Amanda’s personal crossroads. This isn’t just about catching a killer; it’s about choosing a future when everything feels uncertain.
A sharp, atmospheric mystery that blends intrigue, setting, and character with confidence.
krichauffamelieauthor@gmail.com
March 10, 2026
What distinguishes Murder on the Set from the crowded field of expat set mysteries is its unflinching attention to the power dynamics between American visitors and Mexican hosts. The film crew's attitude toward Puerto Vallarta, a backdrop to be commandeered, a pool of cheap extras to be hired, a setting that nonetheless serves their commercial purposes, mirrors a longer history of cultural extraction that Gilbert never names explicitly but renders with precision. Sperling's dismissive comment about the city lands like the flat stone it is meant to be. Amanda occupies an interesting position in this structure: she is the American with institutional power who has genuinely integrated into local life, and her discomfort with her own countrymen's behaviour is one of the novel's recurring pleasures. The Mexican characters, Nando in particular, deserve more page time than they receive, but this is a flaw shared by the genre at large. A thoughtful, politically aware entertainment.
March 10, 2026
Gilbert's Amanda Pennyworth is a quietly radical figure in the landscape of popular mystery fiction. She is a woman who occupies institutional power as U.S. Consul while being perpetually underestimated by the men around her: the blustering Sperling who issues commands before introductions, the paternalistic Ambassador with his reflexive "man the consulate," the preening DeWilde who calls her "young lady" in the same breath he dismisses her plan. The novel's awareness of these microaggressions is consistent and pointed. Amanda's romantic dilemma between career and love is treated with genuine complexity rather than easy resolution, and the ending, which preserves her professional autonomy alongside her relationship, resists the genre's frequent tendency to sacrifice one for the other. My reservation is that both female stars remain largely caricature, defined chiefly by their rivalry. There is fertile ground here that the author leaves unplanted
March 14, 2026
I make it my mission to review debut novels thoroughly and enthusiastically, because debut novels need readers more than any other kind, and this one deserves them. Gilbert has constructed, on a first outing, what many authors take several books to achieve: a fully realized protagonist with a distinctive inner life and outer circumstance; a supporting cast with genuine depth; a setting that functions as more than backdrop; and a plot that uses its central mystery as the vehicle for thematic ideas that extend well beyond whodunit. The prose is accomplished. The pacing, after a slightly deliberate first act, is excellent. The ending is emotionally satisfying without being saccharine. Amanda Pennyworth has all the qualities of a series protagonist who will grow meaningfully across books. I am enormously glad this novel exists, and I am already looking forward to Book 2 with real anticipation. Please support this author.
January 31, 2026
An American Consul in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico finds herself in the center of a movie set and then a murder.
If you love a tropical setting, a stubborn and cunning female lead, and a murder mystery that is fun and dare I say, cozy. This is perfect!
This book was a fast and fun read. As the story unfolded, it read like a Murder She Wrote love letter. And because of that, it completely made up for the fact that I had figured out the murderer early on. Amanda Pennyworth, girl, up your game a little! Even so, I immensely enjoyed following along as Amanda and the sergeant unraveled the little clues to get to the conclusion!
Thank you to Atmosphere Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC!
.
If you love a tropical setting, a stubborn and cunning female lead, and a murder mystery that is fun and dare I say, cozy. This is perfect!
This book was a fast and fun read. As the story unfolded, it read like a Murder She Wrote love letter. And because of that, it completely made up for the fact that I had figured out the murderer early on. Amanda Pennyworth, girl, up your game a little! Even so, I immensely enjoyed following along as Amanda and the sergeant unraveled the little clues to get to the conclusion!
Thank you to Atmosphere Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC!
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February 5, 2026
Amanda Pennyworth won me over completely. She's complex without being overwrought, a capable consul wrestling with professional obligations versus personal desires. Her relationship with Romero adds emotional depth without dominating the plot, and I appreciated how the author handles the long-distance aspect realistically. The secondary characters are equally well-drawn: Nando's quiet competence, Tina's gregarious warmth, even Max Sperling's brusque efficiency feel authentic. My only quibble is that I wanted more interaction between Amanda and some of these supporting players. But that's a minor complaint in an otherwise character-rich mystery.
February 8, 2026
Listen, if you're reading reviews trying to decide whether to buy this book, just do it! Murder on the Set has everything: a fascinating setting, a smart and relatable protagonist, intriguing supporting characters, romance, professional intrigue, and the promise of a Hollywood murder mystery. I've already recommended it to my entire book club, my sister, and three coworkers. This is the kind of series that builds a devoted following, and I'm getting in on the ground floor. Trust me you want to read this book. Then you'll want to read everything else this author writes. Five stars and my highest recommendation.
February 16, 2026
This book was exactly what my soul needed. After months of gray winter days and endless responsibilities, Murder on the Set transported me to sun-drenched Puerto Vallarta where I could feel the ocean breeze and taste salt in the air. Reading about Amanda's life, her morning coffee rituals, her walks along the Malecon, her simple pleasure in watching the world from her window, reminded me to notice beauty in everyday moments. Sometimes we need stories that don't just entertain us but heal us. This is one of those rare books. Thank you for giving me this gift of mental vacation when I needed it most.
March 5, 2026
Amanda's crisis about her career trajectory hit me right in the gut. That tension between advancement and happiness, between prestige and peace, I'm living it right now. The State Department's demand that she accept a dangerous posting to prove her commitment mirrors every toxic workplace that demands we sacrifice our wellbeing to prove our value. But what moved me most was how the author treats this dilemma with such respect and nuance. There's no easy answer, no judgment. Just the recognition that these choices are hard and that whatever Amanda decides will cost her something. That validation made me weep.
February 4, 2026
As someone who's visited Puerto Vallarta multiple times, I can attest that the author absolutely nails the atmosphere. The Zona Romantica, the Malecon, the expat community, it all rings true. I could picture every location perfectly. The way the author weaves local details (the ubiquitous pharmacies advertising Viagra, the street vendors, the morning routines) shows genuine knowledge and affection for the setting. The mystery is compelling, but honestly, I'd read this just for the armchair travel. Perfect beach read that's actually set on a beach.
February 6, 2026
There's something profoundly comforting about this book. It's like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket with a cup of excellent coffee. The rhythm of Amanda's days, the familiar faces at Pages in the Sun, the reliable presence of Nando it all creates this sense of safety and belonging. Even when complications arise, you know you're in capable hands. This is the book equivalent of coming home. I've already reread it twice, and each time I discover new details to savor. Some books are meant to be devoured once; this one is meant to be lived with.
February 7, 2026
What strikes me most powerfully about this book is its deep belief in second chances and new beginnings. Amanda has reinvented herself in Puerto Vallarta. Tina has built a life from her bookstore. Even the expat authors getting their week of recognition, they're all proof that life continues, that we can start over, that it's never too late to find our place. In my fifties, going through my own reinvention, I needed this message desperately. This book arrived at exactly the right moment in my life. Sometimes the universe sends us what we need through unexpected channels.
February 8, 2026
While firmly in the mystery genre, this novel offers more literary depth than typical crime fiction. The author explores themes of belonging, professional ambition versus personal fulfillment, and the expatriate experience with genuine insight. Amanda's internal conflicts feel earned rather than manufactured. The prose is clean and occasionally lyrical that opening image of trouble coming in pairs (then threes!) establishes both mood and theme economically. Not every mystery needs to be Literature with a capital L, but it's nice when genre fiction aspires to something beyond plot mechanics.
February 10, 2026
I could TASTE this book. The bitter coffee at Pages in the Sun. The sweet pastries. The salt air from the Malecon. I could FEEL the cool morning breeze through Amanda's window, the oppressive heat that makes Max Sperling sweat through his suit. I could HEAR the conversations drifting up from the street, the barking dog, the murmur of the ocean. The author writes with all five senses engaged, and reading this is a fully immersive experience. I didn't just read about Puerto Vallarta, I lived there for the duration of this book. Absolutely intoxicating.
February 11, 2026
Oh my goodness, this was such a delightful read. Amanda Pennyworth is the kind of protagonist I could spend book after book with, smart, competent, and genuinely likable without being perfect. The Puerto Vallarta setting absolutely comes alive on the page. I could feel the heat, smell the coffee at Pages in the Sun, and practically taste those tetelas! The premise of a Hollywood film crew disrupting this beautiful Mexican coastal town is brilliant, and I'm already eager for the next in the series. If you love character-driven mysteries with international flair, grab this one immediately.
February 11, 2026
Solid mystery with good bones. The consular setting is refreshing, not every mystery needs to center on a detective or PI. Amanda's professional expertise creates natural plot opportunities, and her relationships with locals (Nando, the police, the expat community) are well-established. The Hollywood invasion provides a believable catalyst for disruption. Pacing could be tighter, but the writing is clean and the characters are memorable. Would recommend for mystery fans looking for something outside the typical domestic thriller.
February 14, 2026
I picked up this book during one of the hardest periods of my life, expecting nothing more than distraction. Instead, I found unexpected solace. The way the author writes about Amanda's quiet strength, her ability to face uncertainty and loss without falling apart, gave me a template for my own grief. She worries, she struggles, but she keeps moving forward with grace and dignity. Sometimes we need to see survival modeled for us. This book became my companion through dark days. I'll always be grateful for finding it when I did.
February 16, 2026
I read 200+ mysteries a year, and this one stands out for its fresh setting and protagonist. Amanda's consular work provides a unique lens, she's neither law enforcement nor civilian, which creates interesting jurisdictional dynamics (her relationship with Commander Gonzalez hints at past conflicts I'm curious about). The film production setup is clever, offering plenty of potential suspects and motives once the inevitable murder occurs. My only concern is whether the series can sustain momentum, but this debut shows real promise. Added the rest of the series to my TBR immediately.
February 26, 2026
This book gave me ALL the feelings. Amanda's internal conflict about leaving Puerto Vallarta, about Romero, about her career, it all felt so real and relatable. Haven't we all faced impossible choices between love and ambition? Between staying somewhere we've built a life and moving forward professionally? The mystery framework is engaging, but it's Amanda's emotional journey that kept me turning pages late into the night. I literally teared up at that line about "trouble comes in threes." Beautiful writing, beautiful story.
March 4, 2026
Despite involving potentially stressful situations, bureaucracy, difficult personalities, looming changes, this book never triggered my anxiety. Instead, it soothed it. Amanda's competence, her thoughtful problem-solving, the predictable comfort of her routines, it all created a sense of safety. The author never resorts to cheap tension or manufactured drama. Conflict arises naturally and is handled maturely. For readers like me who need lower-stress entertainment without sacrificing sophistication, this is perfect. I could breathe while reading this. That's precious and rare.
April 16, 2026
3
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. Very late read and review, but I’m glad I finally got around to it. I’m a sucker for a whodunnit as well as on-set dramas, which is why I requested this in the first place.
It delivered! I enjoyed it. It’s an easy, fast read, though I took many breaks in between. I was immersed in the story and I’m interested in reading the other Amanda Pennyworth books.
A little note on the ending: I wish we’d learn how the movie did the credits. “Story by Carl Beaumont, script by Edmund Frank”, or both story and script still by Frank?
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. Very late read and review, but I’m glad I finally got around to it. I’m a sucker for a whodunnit as well as on-set dramas, which is why I requested this in the first place.
It delivered! I enjoyed it. It’s an easy, fast read, though I took many breaks in between. I was immersed in the story and I’m interested in reading the other Amanda Pennyworth books.
A little note on the ending: I wish we’d learn how the movie did the credits. “Story by Carl Beaumont, script by Edmund Frank”, or both story and script still by Frank?
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