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Rina Martin #11
MURDER AT THE FOLLY a BRAND NEW gripping cozy crime mystery full of twists
‘If you like Agatha Christie, you will love this!’ Sarah, Netgalley
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
READERS LOVE RINA
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oohh this was so good! I love mysteries that have layers . . . it keeps me on my toes.’ Lori C.
‘A charmingly sinister cozy, perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon.’ Leanne, Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Some complex twists and an exceptional red herring or three. A fine read.’ Jan T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘An absolutely delightful cozy.’ Karen K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another fabulous instalment in this wonderful series . . . If I had the superpower of stepping into a fictional setting, I would love to have tea and cake at Rina’s.’ Amanda P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘There’s never a dull moment with this mystery!’ Cindy A.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved it.’ Aileen G.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fun story . . . taking the reader on an exciting journey.’ Beatrice M.
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
READERS LOVE RINA
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oohh this was so good! I love mysteries that have layers . . . it keeps me on my toes.’ Lori C.
‘A charmingly sinister cozy, perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon.’ Leanne, Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Some complex twists and an exceptional red herring or three. A fine read.’ Jan T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘An absolutely delightful cozy.’ Karen K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another fabulous instalment in this wonderful series . . . If I had the superpower of stepping into a fictional setting, I would love to have tea and cake at Rina’s.’ Amanda P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘There’s never a dull moment with this mystery!’ Cindy A.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved it.’ Aileen G.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fun story . . . taking the reader on an exciting journey.’ Beatrice M.
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
285 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2025
258 people are currently reading
13 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
December 3, 2025
3.5 stars for me.
Rina Martin may be a retirement actress,but it seems that amateur sleuth suits her better.Phil Perry the TV show leading man is found dead and everyone are poiting finger at Grace ,his co worker who also had a fight with him earlier on.
Will Rina find the killer before he strike again?
It was a quick and easy read,nothing gruesome and I like to read a mystery once in a while that is just cozy.My first book in the series,but it can be read as standalone,I didn't feel like I missing something from previous books.I enjoyed the book,but multiple POV keep distracting me,still I liked Rina who was really nice and warm,and hope to read more of her story.
Thank you Joffe books for arc,my review is honest and my own.
Rina Martin may be a retirement actress,but it seems that amateur sleuth suits her better.Phil Perry the TV show leading man is found dead and everyone are poiting finger at Grace ,his co worker who also had a fight with him earlier on.
Will Rina find the killer before he strike again?
It was a quick and easy read,nothing gruesome and I like to read a mystery once in a while that is just cozy.My first book in the series,but it can be read as standalone,I didn't feel like I missing something from previous books.I enjoyed the book,but multiple POV keep distracting me,still I liked Rina who was really nice and warm,and hope to read more of her story.
Thank you Joffe books for arc,my review is honest and my own.
December 15, 2025
📚Murder at the Folly
✍🏻Jane Adams
Blurb:
‘If you like Agatha Christie, you will love this!’ Sarah, Netgalley
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
READERS LOVE RINA
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oohh this was so good! I love mysteries that have layers . . . it keeps me on my toes.’ Lori C.
‘A charmingly sinister cozy, perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon.’ Leanne, Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Some complex twists and an exceptional red herring or three. A fine read.’ Jan T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘An absolutely delightful cozy.’ Karen K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another fabulous instalment in this wonderful series . . . If I had the superpower of stepping into a fictional setting, I would love to have tea and cake at Rina’s.’ Amanda P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘There’s never a dull moment with this mystery!’ Cindy A.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved it.’ Aileen G.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fun story . . . taking the reader on an exciting journey.’ Beatrice M.
My Thoughts:
Murder at the Folly was an absolute delight from start to finish. There’s something so comforting about a book that immediately pulls you into its world. Rina Martin is a perfect mix of kindness, curiosity and quiet determination that makes you want to follow her anywhere..Rina. who finds herself in the middle of chaos when a film set turns into a crime scene. One actor is killed during shooting and suddenly everyone around her becomes a suspect. Then another shocking death shakes the set and panic rises even more. Rina steps up and starts connecting clues before the killer claims another life. The mystery stays gripping till the very end
Thanks NetGalley, Joffe Books cozy crime thriller, mystery and suspense and Author Jane Adams for the advanced copy of "Murder at the Folly" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#JoffeBooksCozy,Crimethriller,mysteryandsuspense
#MurderattheFolly
#JaneAdams
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✍🏻Jane Adams
Blurb:
‘If you like Agatha Christie, you will love this!’ Sarah, Netgalley
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
READERS LOVE RINA
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Oohh this was so good! I love mysteries that have layers . . . it keeps me on my toes.’ Lori C.
‘A charmingly sinister cozy, perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon.’ Leanne, Netgalley
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Some complex twists and an exceptional red herring or three. A fine read.’ Jan T.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘An absolutely delightful cozy.’ Karen K.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Another fabulous instalment in this wonderful series . . . If I had the superpower of stepping into a fictional setting, I would love to have tea and cake at Rina’s.’ Amanda P.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘There’s never a dull moment with this mystery!’ Cindy A.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘Loved it.’ Aileen G.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ ‘A fun story . . . taking the reader on an exciting journey.’ Beatrice M.
My Thoughts:
Murder at the Folly was an absolute delight from start to finish. There’s something so comforting about a book that immediately pulls you into its world. Rina Martin is a perfect mix of kindness, curiosity and quiet determination that makes you want to follow her anywhere..Rina. who finds herself in the middle of chaos when a film set turns into a crime scene. One actor is killed during shooting and suddenly everyone around her becomes a suspect. Then another shocking death shakes the set and panic rises even more. Rina steps up and starts connecting clues before the killer claims another life. The mystery stays gripping till the very end
Thanks NetGalley, Joffe Books cozy crime thriller, mystery and suspense and Author Jane Adams for the advanced copy of "Murder at the Folly" I am leaving my voluntary review in appreciation.
#NetGalley
#JoffeBooksCozy,Crimethriller,mysteryandsuspense
#MurderattheFolly
#JaneAdams
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 13, 2025
Here is my review for Murder At The Folly by Jane Adams
This is book eleven in the Rina Martin series and the first story that I have read by this author but I really enjoyed it. It’s a terrific cozy mystery and so well written that it was very easy to follow all the way through. The story was well laid out and it brought Rina Martin out of retirement to play TV sleuth Lydia Marchant on location at Septon Hall. There is a spate of poison pen letters going around and her co-star, Grace Sweeting, receives one too. Phil Perry, who is the show’s leading man, is found dead with the brooch from Grace’s stylish coat, plunged into his neck. She becomes the main suspect but Rina doesn’t think she did it. Can Rina work out who did before anyone else is killed? Also, what was the motive for killing Phil? I really enjoyed how this story was written as I liked the author’s writing style which made it so easy to follow and read. The book had been well written, excellently plotted and really well thought out. It had great descriptive writing which explained everything really well. The characters had been well described and planned out. Also, they seemed very real. The description of Septon Hall was terrific and the surrounding area with portakabins was great, remind me not to go there soon! The synopsis drew me to read this book and I really enjoyed reading this cozy mystery story. I found the storyline really intriguing and was hooked from the start of the book. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Blurb :
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
This is book eleven in the Rina Martin series and the first story that I have read by this author but I really enjoyed it. It’s a terrific cozy mystery and so well written that it was very easy to follow all the way through. The story was well laid out and it brought Rina Martin out of retirement to play TV sleuth Lydia Marchant on location at Septon Hall. There is a spate of poison pen letters going around and her co-star, Grace Sweeting, receives one too. Phil Perry, who is the show’s leading man, is found dead with the brooch from Grace’s stylish coat, plunged into his neck. She becomes the main suspect but Rina doesn’t think she did it. Can Rina work out who did before anyone else is killed? Also, what was the motive for killing Phil? I really enjoyed how this story was written as I liked the author’s writing style which made it so easy to follow and read. The book had been well written, excellently plotted and really well thought out. It had great descriptive writing which explained everything really well. The characters had been well described and planned out. Also, they seemed very real. The description of Septon Hall was terrific and the surrounding area with portakabins was great, remind me not to go there soon! The synopsis drew me to read this book and I really enjoyed reading this cozy mystery story. I found the storyline really intriguing and was hooked from the start of the book. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Blurb :
A crumbling old manor house with its own sinister folly.
A cast full of suspects with secrets to hide. And a killer waiting in the wings . . .
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin just fine. Until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant.
But is Rina returning for an encore — or the final curtain?
Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her costar, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter — in what looks like a tasteless prank. Until . . .
Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat.
Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
Just because Grace is playing a murderess on TV that doesn’t make her one in real life. It’s up to Rina to pin down the truth, before the devious killer strikes again!
If you love Agatha Christie, Jeanne M. Dams, Glenda Young, Stella Cameron, M.C. Beaton and Frances Evesham, prepare to be hooked by this enchanting, character-driven mystery!
December 9, 2025
Loved It — Now I Need the Whole Series!
Murder at the Folly was an absolute delight from start to finish. There’s something so comforting about a book that immediately pulls you into its world, and Jane Adams did exactly that. I didn’t just read this story — I felt like I was standing in the draughty corridors of Septon Hall, watching the tension unfold like a scene right in front of me. The crumbling manor, the eerie folly, the little moments between the cast… it all played out so vividly that I genuinely forgot I was reading at times.
This is Book 11 in the series and, surprisingly, I didn’t feel lost for a single moment. I haven’t read the earlier instalments yet, but — you’ve guessed it — I absolutely will be. There’s a warmth and charm to Rina Martin that really spoke to me. She’s got that perfect mix of kindness, curiosity and quiet determination that makes you want to follow her anywhere. By the time I finished, I knew I wanted to go right back to the beginning and spend more time with her. Jane Adams is now firmly on my author watch list.
What really struck me was how character-driven this mystery is. Every person on set has their own little shadows and secrets, and trying to piece together who was genuine and who was performing (in every sense!) was such a joy. I loved that blend of “on-screen murder” and “real-life tension” - it gave the story a fun, layered feel without ever slipping into silliness.
But the best part? This was just such a cosy read. The type of book that makes you want to curl up in your favourite spot with a hot drink and disappear into someone else’s drama for a while. It had that classic cosy mystery charm I grew up loving, with enough twists to keep me turning the pages happily.
Brilliantly written, immersive, and full of personality — I couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable escape. I’m so glad I picked this one up, and even more excited that I now have ten more books to catch up on.
Murder at the Folly was an absolute delight from start to finish. There’s something so comforting about a book that immediately pulls you into its world, and Jane Adams did exactly that. I didn’t just read this story — I felt like I was standing in the draughty corridors of Septon Hall, watching the tension unfold like a scene right in front of me. The crumbling manor, the eerie folly, the little moments between the cast… it all played out so vividly that I genuinely forgot I was reading at times.
This is Book 11 in the series and, surprisingly, I didn’t feel lost for a single moment. I haven’t read the earlier instalments yet, but — you’ve guessed it — I absolutely will be. There’s a warmth and charm to Rina Martin that really spoke to me. She’s got that perfect mix of kindness, curiosity and quiet determination that makes you want to follow her anywhere. By the time I finished, I knew I wanted to go right back to the beginning and spend more time with her. Jane Adams is now firmly on my author watch list.
What really struck me was how character-driven this mystery is. Every person on set has their own little shadows and secrets, and trying to piece together who was genuine and who was performing (in every sense!) was such a joy. I loved that blend of “on-screen murder” and “real-life tension” - it gave the story a fun, layered feel without ever slipping into silliness.
But the best part? This was just such a cosy read. The type of book that makes you want to curl up in your favourite spot with a hot drink and disappear into someone else’s drama for a while. It had that classic cosy mystery charm I grew up loving, with enough twists to keep me turning the pages happily.
Brilliantly written, immersive, and full of personality — I couldn’t have asked for a more enjoyable escape. I’m so glad I picked this one up, and even more excited that I now have ten more books to catch up on.
December 6, 2025
Murder at the Folly is a charmingly sinister cozy mystery that invites readers into the crumbling grandeur of Septon Hall, where secrets lurk behind every velvet curtain and the past refuses to stay buried. Jane Adams crafts a tale that’s both nostalgic and fresh, bringing retired actress Rina Martin back to the screen—and straight into a real-life whodunit.
Rina’s comeback as TV sleuth Lydia Marchant quickly turns from scripted drama to chilling reality when a poison pen letter sets the stage for murder. The death of leading man Phil Perry, pierced by a brooch with theatrical flair, sends shockwaves through the cast. Suspicion falls on Grace Sweeting, the prickly co-star with a flair for dramatics, but Rina isn’t convinced. With her seasoned instincts and quiet tenacity, she peels back layers of performance to uncover something far darker than bad reviews.
Adams’ prose is crisp and evocative, her characters delightfully flawed, and the setting—a manor with its own eerie folly—adds a gothic touch that fans of Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton will relish. It’s a story that balances intrigue with warmth, proving that retirement doesn’t mean retreating from danger—or from the thrill of solving a mystery.
Perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon, this novel is a gentle yet gripping escape into a world where the curtain may fall, but the truth always finds its spotlight.
with thanks to Jane Adams, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
Rina’s comeback as TV sleuth Lydia Marchant quickly turns from scripted drama to chilling reality when a poison pen letter sets the stage for murder. The death of leading man Phil Perry, pierced by a brooch with theatrical flair, sends shockwaves through the cast. Suspicion falls on Grace Sweeting, the prickly co-star with a flair for dramatics, but Rina isn’t convinced. With her seasoned instincts and quiet tenacity, she peels back layers of performance to uncover something far darker than bad reviews.
Adams’ prose is crisp and evocative, her characters delightfully flawed, and the setting—a manor with its own eerie folly—adds a gothic touch that fans of Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton will relish. It’s a story that balances intrigue with warmth, proving that retirement doesn’t mean retreating from danger—or from the thrill of solving a mystery.
Perfect for curling up with on a rainy afternoon, this novel is a gentle yet gripping escape into a world where the curtain may fall, but the truth always finds its spotlight.
with thanks to Jane Adams, the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC.
December 28, 2025
Rina Martin and her fellow actors are filming the latest Lydia Marchant show at a stately home when a body is found...
Murder at the Folly is the 11th book in Rina Martin series. I would advise reading the books in order as there are a lot of characters and relationships which have developed over the series.
There are some tensions on set as this is possibly the last instalment of the show. But the discovery of a murder victim, killed by one of the props, is a huge surprise to everyone (except the killer!) Meanwhile the local community are being targeted by poison pen letters and causing great upset to the recipients.
I was a little confused at the title as a murder doesn’t happen at the folly until towards the end of the book but it then made more sense. The writing style uses an uneven chapter length and I would have preferred a regular rhythm to aid with reading.
I enjoyed the TV location setting which provided an interesting background to the plot and characters as well as giving us extra insight into Rina's working life. I thought that the additional poison pen letter subplot was effective for showing the personal side to her life and friendships.
Murder at the Folly is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
Murder at the Folly is the 11th book in Rina Martin series. I would advise reading the books in order as there are a lot of characters and relationships which have developed over the series.
There are some tensions on set as this is possibly the last instalment of the show. But the discovery of a murder victim, killed by one of the props, is a huge surprise to everyone (except the killer!) Meanwhile the local community are being targeted by poison pen letters and causing great upset to the recipients.
I was a little confused at the title as a murder doesn’t happen at the folly until towards the end of the book but it then made more sense. The writing style uses an uneven chapter length and I would have preferred a regular rhythm to aid with reading.
I enjoyed the TV location setting which provided an interesting background to the plot and characters as well as giving us extra insight into Rina's working life. I thought that the additional poison pen letter subplot was effective for showing the personal side to her life and friendships.
Murder at the Folly is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery.
December 28, 2025
The setting at Septon Hall was atmospheric and gave the story that perfect mix of cozy charm and suspense. The old manor with its hidden corners and eerie vibe made the mystery feel even more gripping.
Rina Martin, the retired actress turned reluctant sleuth, was a joy to follow. She’s back on set playing her famous TV role, but when one of her fellow actors is found dead, the drama quickly shifts from scripted scenes to real-life danger. At the same time, poison pen letters are circulating among the cast and locals, stirring up secrets and suspicion. I loved how these two threads intertwined, keeping me guessing about who could be trusted.
The characters were well done, each with their own quirks and flaws, and I enjoyed how the tension built between them. Rina’s calm, thoughtful approach to solving the mystery made her stand out, she’s observant, kind, and determined.
Engaging, clever, and full of mystery. It had red herrings, twists, and plenty of character drama, all wrapped up in a setting that felt alive.
Rina Martin, the retired actress turned reluctant sleuth, was a joy to follow. She’s back on set playing her famous TV role, but when one of her fellow actors is found dead, the drama quickly shifts from scripted scenes to real-life danger. At the same time, poison pen letters are circulating among the cast and locals, stirring up secrets and suspicion. I loved how these two threads intertwined, keeping me guessing about who could be trusted.
The characters were well done, each with their own quirks and flaws, and I enjoyed how the tension built between them. Rina’s calm, thoughtful approach to solving the mystery made her stand out, she’s observant, kind, and determined.
Engaging, clever, and full of mystery. It had red herrings, twists, and plenty of character drama, all wrapped up in a setting that felt alive.
December 3, 2025
Book 11 in the Rina Martin Mystery series and is easily read as a stand-alone
The characters in this Rina Martin series are straight from Agatha Christie but cleverly brought up to date. There is a nice homely backstory running alongside each book that gives the series a human touch.
Rina Martin is a bit of an amateur sleuth, and she seems to attract trouble. She is acting in a screen adaptation of a popular series when one of the guest stars is found dead in the prop stores. The man has been stabbed and left to bleed out.
The police are baffled, and the investigation is hampered because the filming was set in an old manor house complete with secret passages, cobwebs and dodgy electrics! The cast and several locals have also received poison pen letters, each with a threat and hints at the receivers past deeds, some true and some false. Are the letters linked?
This is a lovely homage to Miss Marple and makes a great fireside read.
The characters in this Rina Martin series are straight from Agatha Christie but cleverly brought up to date. There is a nice homely backstory running alongside each book that gives the series a human touch.
Rina Martin is a bit of an amateur sleuth, and she seems to attract trouble. She is acting in a screen adaptation of a popular series when one of the guest stars is found dead in the prop stores. The man has been stabbed and left to bleed out.
The police are baffled, and the investigation is hampered because the filming was set in an old manor house complete with secret passages, cobwebs and dodgy electrics! The cast and several locals have also received poison pen letters, each with a threat and hints at the receivers past deeds, some true and some false. Are the letters linked?
This is a lovely homage to Miss Marple and makes a great fireside read.
December 5, 2025
Retirement suits actress Rina Martin until she’s tempted back for one last hurrah, reprising her role as sharp-witted TV sleuth Lydia Marchant. Rina’s seen plenty of drama over the years. But nothing like the chaos she finds on location at Septon Hall. Her co-star, the decidedly sour Grace Sweeting, gets a poison pen letter. Phil Perry, the show’s charming leading man, is found dead! Plunged in his neck is a glinting brooch, last seen on Grace’s stylish coat. Suddenly, everyone’s ready to point the finger at Grace. Only Rina has her doubts.
The eleventh book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. Another well written cosy mystery with strong characters, who you either love or hate & a well paced story, there are twists, turns & of course red herrings. I really like Rina & look forward to more books
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
The eleventh book in the series & it’s easily read on its own. Another well written cosy mystery with strong characters, who you either love or hate & a well paced story, there are twists, turns & of course red herrings. I really like Rina & look forward to more books
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
December 2, 2025
Book 11 in the series but can be read alone. I have read the whole series and, whilst enjoying them all, have found the narrative to be quite variable - sometimes it rambles and gets a bit monotonous, other times it’s really exciting . However this is definitely one of the better ones! A great setting- an old house with a folly in the grounds- great scene setting- the filming of the latest episode in a sort of Murder She Wrote series, starring Riña, the lead character in this series of stories. This has allowed the author to conjure up eccentric and far from lovable characters, in contrast to the regular cast of the books. I loved the plot line, especially as virtually everyone seemed to have a motive and/ or be behaving suspiciously! A lovely read to while away the hours!
December 1, 2025
Filming is underway of the latest episode in the Lydia Marchant series, Rena is there in her role as Lydia. The author of the books is scheduled to visit the filming, this is unusual, but all goes well. The next morning is not so good, when Rina and Tracey, the wardrobe mistress enter the rooms set aside for the clothes and props and find one of the actors lying in a pool of blood.
Rita’s friend Mac is busy dealing with the spate of poison pen letters going around until there appears to be a link to the death of the actor and is soon seconded to the team.
Another well written cosy mystery, my thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
Rita’s friend Mac is busy dealing with the spate of poison pen letters going around until there appears to be a link to the death of the actor and is soon seconded to the team.
Another well written cosy mystery, my thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the arc.
December 2, 2025
Book eleven of the Rina Martin series starts with a poison pen letter which is soon followed by murder (of course). Rina and the rest of the cast and crew of the Linda Marchant television series are shocked when one of their number is found dead in the costume room. Can the police (and Rina) get to the bottom of this mystery and work out who the culprit is before anyone else is hurt?
This is another great cosy murder mystery from the pen of Jane Adams. The writing style is easy to read and the story flows so well that it is difficult to put down. I highly recommend this (and the rest of the books in the series, if you haven’t already read them) to any fan of this genre.
This is another great cosy murder mystery from the pen of Jane Adams. The writing style is easy to read and the story flows so well that it is difficult to put down. I highly recommend this (and the rest of the books in the series, if you haven’t already read them) to any fan of this genre.
December 21, 2025
Rina Martin finds herself investigating after someone is murdered on the set of the movie she is working on. The lead actress is the main suspect, but Rina doesn't think she did it. It doesn't help either that poison pen letters are still going around.
I didn't realize this was book 11 of a series when I requested it, otherwise I might not have. I liked the mystery fine, but there was a lot that had happened in prior books with characters and also with the poison pen aspect that I was a little lost on that front. It took away from my enjoyment since I didn't have the full picture.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't realize this was book 11 of a series when I requested it, otherwise I might not have. I liked the mystery fine, but there was a lot that had happened in prior books with characters and also with the poison pen aspect that I was a little lost on that front. It took away from my enjoyment since I didn't have the full picture.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2025
Murder at the Folly by Jane Adams is the 11th book in the cozy crime mystery Rina Martin Murder series and the first book I have read in the series, I really enjoyed it especially as it was full of good twists and turns and had excellent characters especially the main character Rina Martin, she is an interesting character. Once I started to read the first few pages I was hooked and ended up reading with a few sittings. I had no problems getting into this book, so it was a good standalone book.
December 15, 2025
This was another enjoyable Rina Martin story, where a death occurs while she is working on a TV series.
I would have liked to see more of the eccentric characters in her household but the overall tale was done well and Iliked thw writing style.
It was psychologically interesting...why people act as they do. Rina is a likeable character as is Mac and many others and I liked seeing them in action.
Enjoyable, entertaining and engaging.
I would have liked to see more of the eccentric characters in her household but the overall tale was done well and Iliked thw writing style.
It was psychologically interesting...why people act as they do. Rina is a likeable character as is Mac and many others and I liked seeing them in action.
Enjoyable, entertaining and engaging.
January 5, 2026
I really like this series but did not enjoy this book as much - Rina was on her own so I missed the interaction of the other characters especially Mac. The whole poison note subplot did not work for me Though the writing about what it meant to people when they received was nicely done. What is next for Mac??
December 2, 2025
I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher and thoroughly enjoyed it! Now I want to read the rest of the series! Thank you, Joffe Books, for introducing me to this author!
Engaging characters, twisty plot, surprises and dramatic tension in a uniquely British setting. Enjoy!
Engaging characters, twisty plot, surprises and dramatic tension in a uniquely British setting. Enjoy!
December 2, 2025
Murder at the Folly. During the filming of a tv crime drama a body is found. A batch of poison penletters seemingly unconnected, but are they? The police have to sift through the clues until a suspect is tracked down. An intriguing and gripping novel.
December 2, 2025
Love this series, love Rina Martin and thoroughly enjoyed this mystery that can be read as a stand alone
Well done, entertaining.
Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
Well done, entertaining.
Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
December 2, 2025
What a great read. I do love a good mystery.
December 3, 2025
Another great story in this Rina Martin series. Lots of twists and turns, a nice, cosy read.
December 10, 2025
excellent
This is a very good series with characters that draw you in. There are two different plots that are difficult to solve but the ending is satisfactory
This is a very good series with characters that draw you in. There are two different plots that are difficult to solve but the ending is satisfactory
December 17, 2025
This is my first book by Jane Adams and I found it to be easy reading but a little repetitive. It had a very cosy feel to the story but maybe a little bit too cosy for me, could have just done with a bit more gore 🤷🏼♀️
This is book 11 I think in the series but is easy enough to be read as a standalone, it is a very character driven and everyone seems to have their own little secrets going on.
I did enjoy the blend of “on scene” drama mixed in with the “real life” drama, without it getting too carried without it getting silly.
Overall I found this book to be slow paced but easy to read. I did enjoy it but I’m not sure I’ll be seeking out the other books.
Thankyou to @zooloosbooktours and @joffebooks f for sending me this arc to read and review and having me along for the tour
This is book 11 I think in the series but is easy enough to be read as a standalone, it is a very character driven and everyone seems to have their own little secrets going on.
I did enjoy the blend of “on scene” drama mixed in with the “real life” drama, without it getting too carried without it getting silly.
Overall I found this book to be slow paced but easy to read. I did enjoy it but I’m not sure I’ll be seeking out the other books.
Thankyou to @zooloosbooktours and @joffebooks f for sending me this arc to read and review and having me along for the tour
December 24, 2025
Interesting
Good characters first-class plot developing slowly drawing you in keeping you turning the pages to the very end,enjoyed reading this book
Good characters first-class plot developing slowly drawing you in keeping you turning the pages to the very end,enjoyed reading this book
December 30, 2025
excellent story and a twist as expected
Well another story from the pen of Jane Adam’s. Another twist and the life of Rina and Mac joined again. I wonder what is next!!!
Well another story from the pen of Jane Adam’s. Another twist and the life of Rina and Mac joined again. I wonder what is next!!!
January 10, 2026
This book and the previous book, Murder at the Wedding, I found quite laborious, in parts: too much narration and not enough action, compared to rebooks.
However. After about 50% read I started to become more interested.
However. After about 50% read I started to become more interested.
January 1, 2026
This was an interesting story with well drawn characters, with the main character being Rina Martin as an amateur sleuth, who gets involved in the quest for a murderer, the dead person being a fellow actor. I spent quite a time wondering who the killer was and was also intrigued as to who was writing the poison pen letters which was a side story running alongside of the murder. Both mysteries satisfactorily sorted, with a great climax as the killer is exposed.
I did appreciate that the book was the eleventh in the series, but it did work well as a standalone tale with enough back story filtering in to keep me informed and satisfied.
I really liked the story. She's an author I would like to read more of.
I did appreciate that the book was the eleventh in the series, but it did work well as a standalone tale with enough back story filtering in to keep me informed and satisfied.
I really liked the story. She's an author I would like to read more of.
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