What do you think?
Maddie Penrose #2
Murder at the Cornish Book Club
Join Maddie Penrose, scone baker, book lover and amateur sleuth, in her new home by the Cornish seaside. A member of her local book club has been murdered, and she’s on the case!
Maddie Penrose is settling into Cornish life with her fun and feisty grandmother, Nor. She throws herself into getting to know the locals, helping out at the village book club and enjoying the occasional G&T in the pub with handsome police officer DI Tom Trevelyan. But one sunny morning, her newfound peace is shattered when she spots Quentin, a member of the book club… dead, with a knife in his back.
To Maddie’s surprise, it transpires that almost all the other members of the book club have a motive to murder Quentin. Quentin’s own wife, a fellow reader, seems to be hiding something. The local romance author isn’t all sweetness and light, and another writer is keeping secrets. But is one of the book lovers in the sleepy seaside village really responsible for Quentin’s untimely death?
No sooner has the ink dried on the page of the first killing, another takes place – and the second victim is also a member of the book club! As Maddie frantically scrambles to get her clues down in black and white, she unearths a discovery connected to Nor. Is her gran the next victim on the list?
Can Maddie rescue Nor before her story ends in murder too? Or will the killer have the last word?
Maddie Penrose is settling into Cornish life with her fun and feisty grandmother, Nor. She throws herself into getting to know the locals, helping out at the village book club and enjoying the occasional G&T in the pub with handsome police officer DI Tom Trevelyan. But one sunny morning, her newfound peace is shattered when she spots Quentin, a member of the book club… dead, with a knife in his back.
To Maddie’s surprise, it transpires that almost all the other members of the book club have a motive to murder Quentin. Quentin’s own wife, a fellow reader, seems to be hiding something. The local romance author isn’t all sweetness and light, and another writer is keeping secrets. But is one of the book lovers in the sleepy seaside village really responsible for Quentin’s untimely death?
No sooner has the ink dried on the page of the first killing, another takes place – and the second victim is also a member of the book club! As Maddie frantically scrambles to get her clues down in black and white, she unearths a discovery connected to Nor. Is her gran the next victim on the list?
Can Maddie rescue Nor before her story ends in murder too? Or will the killer have the last word?
268 pages, ebook
Published June 29, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
July 1, 2026
This was a perfect second outing wiith well written characrers in this engaging mystery. The way an ordinary person pulls all the clues together is very uplifting. The increasing hint of romance grabbed my attention and i found myself trappesd in needing to know everything. My mystery itseld became overcomplucated in places but held my attention because it was cleverly revealed. The side charactwrs were interesting . Although part 2 of a series it works well as a atandalone as references are made to previous events. This is written in a vwry cozy mystwry kind of way and in places a to b narrative this adds to the enjoment as it becomes a quick read to dive into . Havw to say really hope thrre us a book 3 soon.
Highly recommended this is prefect for all mystery lovers and genwral reasers. 5 star all the wat. Thanks netgallwey publisher and aurgor.
Highly recommended this is prefect for all mystery lovers and genwral reasers. 5 star all the wat. Thanks netgallwey publisher and aurgor.
June 28, 2026
When a local book club member washes ashore, amateur sleuth Maddie begins the task of solving the perfect recipe for murder.
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear each member harbours hidden motives and secrets. This gripping book keeps you on your toes with treasure maps, clues to local legends and a battle of authors. It’s a cosy mystery that draws you into this small town’s investigation.
Ordinary notes beckoning you to your death as members begin disappearing spark a race against time to uncover the murderer. This captivating tale weaves together the intricate lifestyle of a tourist town and the myths that bind them, creating a thrilling blend of crime and adventure.
A fast-paced murder mystery drawing you in from the start. The unfolding clues and knowledge keep you guessing. I had no idea who the suspect was until the very end. Furthermore, the sweet touches of family and romance keep you wanting more.
This book is the second in the series so I’m definitely going to backtrack and read the first. It’s a true seaside murder mystery that will leave you stunned.
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
As the story unfolds, it becomes clear each member harbours hidden motives and secrets. This gripping book keeps you on your toes with treasure maps, clues to local legends and a battle of authors. It’s a cosy mystery that draws you into this small town’s investigation.
Ordinary notes beckoning you to your death as members begin disappearing spark a race against time to uncover the murderer. This captivating tale weaves together the intricate lifestyle of a tourist town and the myths that bind them, creating a thrilling blend of crime and adventure.
A fast-paced murder mystery drawing you in from the start. The unfolding clues and knowledge keep you guessing. I had no idea who the suspect was until the very end. Furthermore, the sweet touches of family and romance keep you wanting more.
This book is the second in the series so I’m definitely going to backtrack and read the first. It’s a true seaside murder mystery that will leave you stunned.
Review of advanced copy received from NetGalley
June 28, 2026
Just kept getting better and better!
I love cozy mysteries, and I was excited to start Murder at the Cornish Book Club. As a book club member myself, the schtick of the murder was right up my alley. The setting at Cornwall was lovely and all of the characters were fun to get to know. As always, there were positives and negatives with this book, but the positives far outweighed the small areas that drug. For example, what stood out to me were:
~The murder was very well plotted. I appreciated that our main / POV character Maddie took time occasionally to sit down and go over the facts. She wrote down all of her clues in an old recipe book, and thought of the murder(s) themselves as ingredients to the overall motive. I thought that was clever, and aligned to her personality and job very nicely! It also made it easy for me the reader to follow what was going on.
~The pointed puns. So often in cozy murder mysteries, puns are done to death. If a mystery is set in a Christmas town, every third line has to do with Kris Kringle, or if the character is a librarian, there are so. Many. Book. Puns. Or statements about books, etc. But not this time. The puns linking Maddie’s job - as a baker - to the mystery were really only utilized when she sat down and was going over the facts. It kept the theme from being so overused. I chuckled with the puns instead of rolling my eyes.
~The hints to broader themes of this series were sprinkled in (baking pun?) without being overbearing. It felt like this was just one stop on Maddie’s journey into settling into her new town, and that there would be room for her, her relationships, and the town and businesses themselves to grow as we go along.
~The ability of the author to get the story going was really smooth. I have not read the first book of this series. Thankfully I didn’t need to - the larger plot points of the first book were referenced, but not handed to me on a platter in the first chapter either, so I was able to get up to speed quickly by being shown the story beats, not told. Sometimes when you are reading a series back to back, it gets annoying when the first chapter is nothing but recap. Not this time, and it was much appreciated!
There were a few bumps, but they didn’t derail my enjoyment. In this case, there were hints of a love triangle. I really dislike that trope in murder mysteries, unless they serve the plot. In this case, it feels like it’s there just to annoy Maddie, rather than help her growth or integration into the town. I hope that it gets resolved quickly in the next few books. Additionally, Maddie herself started to get on my nerves. I myself think a bit like she does - circular and winding. About halfway through the book I was very annoyed with her constantly forgetting to share information with the detective. Thankfully, the author acknowledges that with a line that really resonated…”recognizing her own habit of talking in circles, which was surprisingly frustrating in other people.” Yes, yes it is. I felt so SEEN in that moment that it reframed my annoyance and I happily continued on to the end.
This is a delightful novel, that you don’t have to read the first of the series to seamlessly get in to. I will be keeping an eye out for the next in this series to find out what’s next for Maddie, her grandmother, and our intrepid small town detective!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
I love cozy mysteries, and I was excited to start Murder at the Cornish Book Club. As a book club member myself, the schtick of the murder was right up my alley. The setting at Cornwall was lovely and all of the characters were fun to get to know. As always, there were positives and negatives with this book, but the positives far outweighed the small areas that drug. For example, what stood out to me were:
~The murder was very well plotted. I appreciated that our main / POV character Maddie took time occasionally to sit down and go over the facts. She wrote down all of her clues in an old recipe book, and thought of the murder(s) themselves as ingredients to the overall motive. I thought that was clever, and aligned to her personality and job very nicely! It also made it easy for me the reader to follow what was going on.
~The pointed puns. So often in cozy murder mysteries, puns are done to death. If a mystery is set in a Christmas town, every third line has to do with Kris Kringle, or if the character is a librarian, there are so. Many. Book. Puns. Or statements about books, etc. But not this time. The puns linking Maddie’s job - as a baker - to the mystery were really only utilized when she sat down and was going over the facts. It kept the theme from being so overused. I chuckled with the puns instead of rolling my eyes.
~The hints to broader themes of this series were sprinkled in (baking pun?) without being overbearing. It felt like this was just one stop on Maddie’s journey into settling into her new town, and that there would be room for her, her relationships, and the town and businesses themselves to grow as we go along.
~The ability of the author to get the story going was really smooth. I have not read the first book of this series. Thankfully I didn’t need to - the larger plot points of the first book were referenced, but not handed to me on a platter in the first chapter either, so I was able to get up to speed quickly by being shown the story beats, not told. Sometimes when you are reading a series back to back, it gets annoying when the first chapter is nothing but recap. Not this time, and it was much appreciated!
There were a few bumps, but they didn’t derail my enjoyment. In this case, there were hints of a love triangle. I really dislike that trope in murder mysteries, unless they serve the plot. In this case, it feels like it’s there just to annoy Maddie, rather than help her growth or integration into the town. I hope that it gets resolved quickly in the next few books. Additionally, Maddie herself started to get on my nerves. I myself think a bit like she does - circular and winding. About halfway through the book I was very annoyed with her constantly forgetting to share information with the detective. Thankfully, the author acknowledges that with a line that really resonated…”recognizing her own habit of talking in circles, which was surprisingly frustrating in other people.” Yes, yes it is. I felt so SEEN in that moment that it reframed my annoyance and I happily continued on to the end.
This is a delightful novel, that you don’t have to read the first of the series to seamlessly get in to. I will be keeping an eye out for the next in this series to find out what’s next for Maddie, her grandmother, and our intrepid small town detective!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC.
July 19, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ 4/5 Stars
If there’s one thing you should never do, it’s join a book club in a cozy mystery… because apparently someone is always ending up dead. 😂
Murder at the Cornish Book Club was everything I wanted from a cozy mystery: a charming Cornish seaside village, a lovable amateur sleuth, plenty of tea, cake, books, and of course… murder. When a member of the local book club is found with a knife in his back, Maddie Penrose can’t resist digging into the mystery, especially when it seems nearly everyone had a reason to want the victim gone. Before long, another murder shakes the village, and the stakes become much more personal. (Bookouture)
The atmosphere was definitely my favourite part. I wanted to pack my bags and move straight to Cornwall (minus the serial killer, thank you very much 😅). The bookish references, the quirky village characters, and Maddie’s relationship with her grandmother Nor gave the story so much warmth. Nor completely stole the show for me—I adored every scene she was in.
The mystery itself kept me engaged with plenty of suspects, hidden motives, and just enough twists to keep me second-guessing. It wasn’t the most shocking reveal I’ve ever read, but it was satisfying and fit the story well. I also really enjoyed the little hints of romance between Maddie and DI Tom. Fliss… please let these two actually go on a proper date already! 😂💕
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that there were quite a few suspects and secrets flying around at once, so I occasionally had to stop and remind myself who was connected to whom. A couple of reveals also felt a little convenient toward the end. Nothing that ruined the story—just enough to keep it from being a perfect read for me.
Overall, this was such a delightful cozy mystery that perfectly balances murder with charm, humour, and bookish fun. If you love quaint villages, amateur detectives, tea shops, suspicious book club members, and mysteries that feel like curling up under a blanket on a rainy afternoon, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
📖☕ Would I recommend it? Absolutely! It’s a cozy mystery that delivers exactly what it promises—and I’ll definitely be continuing the Maddie Penrose series.
If there’s one thing you should never do, it’s join a book club in a cozy mystery… because apparently someone is always ending up dead. 😂
Murder at the Cornish Book Club was everything I wanted from a cozy mystery: a charming Cornish seaside village, a lovable amateur sleuth, plenty of tea, cake, books, and of course… murder. When a member of the local book club is found with a knife in his back, Maddie Penrose can’t resist digging into the mystery, especially when it seems nearly everyone had a reason to want the victim gone. Before long, another murder shakes the village, and the stakes become much more personal. (Bookouture)
The atmosphere was definitely my favourite part. I wanted to pack my bags and move straight to Cornwall (minus the serial killer, thank you very much 😅). The bookish references, the quirky village characters, and Maddie’s relationship with her grandmother Nor gave the story so much warmth. Nor completely stole the show for me—I adored every scene she was in.
The mystery itself kept me engaged with plenty of suspects, hidden motives, and just enough twists to keep me second-guessing. It wasn’t the most shocking reveal I’ve ever read, but it was satisfying and fit the story well. I also really enjoyed the little hints of romance between Maddie and DI Tom. Fliss… please let these two actually go on a proper date already! 😂💕
The only reason this isn’t a full five stars is that there were quite a few suspects and secrets flying around at once, so I occasionally had to stop and remind myself who was connected to whom. A couple of reveals also felt a little convenient toward the end. Nothing that ruined the story—just enough to keep it from being a perfect read for me.
Overall, this was such a delightful cozy mystery that perfectly balances murder with charm, humour, and bookish fun. If you love quaint villages, amateur detectives, tea shops, suspicious book club members, and mysteries that feel like curling up under a blanket on a rainy afternoon, this one is absolutely worth picking up.
📖☕ Would I recommend it? Absolutely! It’s a cozy mystery that delivers exactly what it promises—and I’ll definitely be continuing the Maddie Penrose series.
June 30, 2026
I was so ready to be back in Cornwall with Maddie Penrose. It had been four months since Murder in a Cornish Teashop, but it felt like no time had passed at all. Murder at the Cornish Book Club didn't disappoint.
I loved that this one was all about a book club. As a book lover myself, that mix of mystery and all things bookish had me hooked from the start.
This time I had absolutely no idea who the killer was until close to the end, even though I guessed it pretty fast in the first book. There were so many possible suspects that I changed my mind like three times. Nor is still my favorite character in this series, no doubt about it.
The only thing is the ending felt a bit slower than I expected, almost like the story lost some momentum right when I wanted it to keep going. Not that it's bad, just not what I saw coming after all that tension.
I already want to get my hands on the third book. If you love cozy mysteries with a bit of humor and lots of baked goods along the way, this series is a safe bet.
I loved that this one was all about a book club. As a book lover myself, that mix of mystery and all things bookish had me hooked from the start.
This time I had absolutely no idea who the killer was until close to the end, even though I guessed it pretty fast in the first book. There were so many possible suspects that I changed my mind like three times. Nor is still my favorite character in this series, no doubt about it.
The only thing is the ending felt a bit slower than I expected, almost like the story lost some momentum right when I wanted it to keep going. Not that it's bad, just not what I saw coming after all that tension.
I already want to get my hands on the third book. If you love cozy mysteries with a bit of humor and lots of baked goods along the way, this series is a safe bet.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 rounded up.
I enjoyed my time with Murder at the Cornish Book Club overall, even if it did not completely click with me personally. This is the second book in the series and it absolutely delivers the cozy mystery atmosphere: a charming seaside town, a tea shop run by Maddie and her grandmother Nor, a local legend about hidden treasure, and of course, a murder that pulls the whole community into speculation.
When a man’s body washes up on shore one morning, Maddie finds herself helping the local police, especially her friend Constable Tom, piece together what happened. I appreciated that while Maddie is technically an amateur sleuth, she is observant and clever, as opposed to overly silly and unrealistic. It was enjoyable watching her and Tom bounce theories off one another and slowly connect the dots.
The mystery itself was well crafted and layered, with several believable suspects and motives woven throughout the story. I did happen to guess the killer fairly early on, but honestly, I think that came more from years of reading thrillers than from the reveal being overly obvious and/or predictable. The pacing also worked well for me. While this is not a fast paced or action heavy mystery, I never felt bored, and most scenes added something meaningful to the investigation or the larger secrets at play within the town.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the relationship between Maddie and her grandmother, Nor. Their dynamic was sweet and comforting, and Nor brought humor and warmth to the story. I also really enjoyed the growing relationship between Maddie and Tom. Their interactions felt natural and charming, especially as they worked together to untangle the mystery. I especially appreciated that Tom, while the official officer, didn't dismiss or discount Maddie's opinions and observations. You could tell her genuinely appreciated her help and valued her thoughts. This was super refreshing, as police don't always appreciate the amateur sleuths within these type of stories.
The main thing that kept me from becoming fully invested was that, while the characters were all likable, they did not stand out to me as much as I had hoped. Some of the side characters in particular blended together a bit, and I personally struggled to feel deeply connected to everyone in the story. Because of that, while I enjoyed reading the book, I am not sure it will end up being especially memorable for me long term.
I will also say that, for anyone who hasn't read the first book, you should be okay to read this one as a standalone. While there is some background information about the characters on the first book, not having that knowledge doesn't impact the ability to understand and connect with this installment. As a bonus, the outcome of the first book is not mentioned or spoiled within this one. So don't worry about reading this one first and then back tracking if you choose!
That said, I still had a good time with the story and will likely continue with the series. I would especially recommend this book to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a solid multilayered plot, a smart amateur sleuth, and a gentle growing romance between friends woven into the story.
Release date: June 29th, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!
I enjoyed my time with Murder at the Cornish Book Club overall, even if it did not completely click with me personally. This is the second book in the series and it absolutely delivers the cozy mystery atmosphere: a charming seaside town, a tea shop run by Maddie and her grandmother Nor, a local legend about hidden treasure, and of course, a murder that pulls the whole community into speculation.
When a man’s body washes up on shore one morning, Maddie finds herself helping the local police, especially her friend Constable Tom, piece together what happened. I appreciated that while Maddie is technically an amateur sleuth, she is observant and clever, as opposed to overly silly and unrealistic. It was enjoyable watching her and Tom bounce theories off one another and slowly connect the dots.
The mystery itself was well crafted and layered, with several believable suspects and motives woven throughout the story. I did happen to guess the killer fairly early on, but honestly, I think that came more from years of reading thrillers than from the reveal being overly obvious and/or predictable. The pacing also worked well for me. While this is not a fast paced or action heavy mystery, I never felt bored, and most scenes added something meaningful to the investigation or the larger secrets at play within the town.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the relationship between Maddie and her grandmother, Nor. Their dynamic was sweet and comforting, and Nor brought humor and warmth to the story. I also really enjoyed the growing relationship between Maddie and Tom. Their interactions felt natural and charming, especially as they worked together to untangle the mystery. I especially appreciated that Tom, while the official officer, didn't dismiss or discount Maddie's opinions and observations. You could tell her genuinely appreciated her help and valued her thoughts. This was super refreshing, as police don't always appreciate the amateur sleuths within these type of stories.
The main thing that kept me from becoming fully invested was that, while the characters were all likable, they did not stand out to me as much as I had hoped. Some of the side characters in particular blended together a bit, and I personally struggled to feel deeply connected to everyone in the story. Because of that, while I enjoyed reading the book, I am not sure it will end up being especially memorable for me long term.
I will also say that, for anyone who hasn't read the first book, you should be okay to read this one as a standalone. While there is some background information about the characters on the first book, not having that knowledge doesn't impact the ability to understand and connect with this installment. As a bonus, the outcome of the first book is not mentioned or spoiled within this one. So don't worry about reading this one first and then back tracking if you choose!
That said, I still had a good time with the story and will likely continue with the series. I would especially recommend this book to readers who enjoy cozy mysteries with a solid multilayered plot, a smart amateur sleuth, and a gentle growing romance between friends woven into the story.
Release date: June 29th, 2026
Thank you to Netgalley for this advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!
August 3, 2026
Back in April, I wrote about the first book in the Maddie Penrose series Murder at a Cornish Teashop. The second book featuring Maddie and her grandmother Nor has been released and it gets a bit meta as it revolves around a death within Nor's book club group.
The book club members include local bookshop owner Quentin, his wife Rowena (both an academic and a pagan), William (a lobster fisherman who loves the classics), Suki (an romance novelist), antique store owner Harry, his wife Gwen whose acting career is featured almost every week on the BBC, plus Julia and Marge and Celia and... you get the idea. In just four pages, there is one less member in the book club.
As I had wished for in my review of the first Maddie Penrose book, we get more about Nor and DI Tom Trevelyn in this newest installment. I'm still hoping for more about Roger, the bartender at the Two Pelicans pub. Maybe in the third book?
Maddie still has the habit of making lists on bits of blank space in her grandmother's recipe book (this time on the cheese scone recipe page). I get the need for the lists, but why does it have to be in the book that contains all of the recipes needed for the tea shop? Is there nothing else available to write on? Couldn't Maddie buy herself a pocket notebook or even just use the notes app on her phone? I just don't get it.
As can happen with the second book in a series, the plot in this one is tighter, partly because there is less exposition to deal with. The action is paced well and readers are provided with just enough information to understand what Maddie (and Tom) are thinking.
I also enjoyed the commentary on publishing throughout this book. Why are some genres considered "better" than others? How do you define authorship? In an age of AI and LLMs, it is a topic we will discuss and deliberate more and more as time goes on.
4 lattes out of 5
SIDE NOTE: This is the second time I've reviewed more than one book in a series and I'm wondering if it's something I should continue. I'm considering a different type of posts for these types of books: a way to share that a new book in the series is available and maybe just a peek at the new story line.
Disclaimer: This eARC was provided by Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book club members include local bookshop owner Quentin, his wife Rowena (both an academic and a pagan), William (a lobster fisherman who loves the classics), Suki (an romance novelist), antique store owner Harry, his wife Gwen whose acting career is featured almost every week on the BBC, plus Julia and Marge and Celia and... you get the idea. In just four pages, there is one less member in the book club.
As I had wished for in my review of the first Maddie Penrose book, we get more about Nor and DI Tom Trevelyn in this newest installment. I'm still hoping for more about Roger, the bartender at the Two Pelicans pub. Maybe in the third book?
Maddie still has the habit of making lists on bits of blank space in her grandmother's recipe book (this time on the cheese scone recipe page). I get the need for the lists, but why does it have to be in the book that contains all of the recipes needed for the tea shop? Is there nothing else available to write on? Couldn't Maddie buy herself a pocket notebook or even just use the notes app on her phone? I just don't get it.
As can happen with the second book in a series, the plot in this one is tighter, partly because there is less exposition to deal with. The action is paced well and readers are provided with just enough information to understand what Maddie (and Tom) are thinking.
I also enjoyed the commentary on publishing throughout this book. Why are some genres considered "better" than others? How do you define authorship? In an age of AI and LLMs, it is a topic we will discuss and deliberate more and more as time goes on.
4 lattes out of 5
SIDE NOTE: This is the second time I've reviewed more than one book in a series and I'm wondering if it's something I should continue. I'm considering a different type of posts for these types of books: a way to share that a new book in the series is available and maybe just a peek at the new story line.
Disclaimer: This eARC was provided by Bookouture via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
In Murder at the Cornish Book Club by Fliss Chester, amateur sleuth and scone baker Maddie Penrose is enjoying her new coastal lifestyle alongside her spirited grandmother, Nor, and catching up over G&Ts with the handsome DI Tom Trevelyan. But the seaside tranquillity is ruined on a bright morning when Maddie stumbles across a fellow book club member, Quentin, murdered in the village. As the investigation begins, it becomes clear that nearly everyone in the reading group has a reason to want him dead, including his own wife and some seemingly sweet local writers, forcing Maddie to figure out which book lover is hiding a deadly secret.
This is the second book in the Maddie Penrose series and since I actually discovered cosy mysteries through the first book, I knew I had to read this one! I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Following Maddie as she investigates alongside DI Tom to solve a couple of murders in town was incredibly charming, cosy and humorous, despite the 'darkness' of the crimes themselves. The plot is structured around a familiar but highly effective cosy crime formula: a closed community, a pool of suspects and a steady stream of revelations that shift suspicion from one character to another. Maddie solves the murder like a puzzle, or a recipe, making it a classic "whodunit" rather than a suspenseful thriller, which was perfect for my taste.
It was a quick, engaging read that kept me guessing until the end, though I only wish the big final reveal had been a bit more surprising. While it is the second book in the series, the first investigation is only briefly mentioned, so this can easily be read as a standalone. I also really liked the relationship building between Maddie and Tom and can't wait to see where it goes.
Thanks to NetGalley, Fliss Chester and Bookouture for the opportunity to read an uncorrected proof copy of this delightful book. I am already looking forward to the next Maddie Penrose mystery!
This is the second book in the Maddie Penrose series and since I actually discovered cosy mysteries through the first book, I knew I had to read this one! I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish. Following Maddie as she investigates alongside DI Tom to solve a couple of murders in town was incredibly charming, cosy and humorous, despite the 'darkness' of the crimes themselves. The plot is structured around a familiar but highly effective cosy crime formula: a closed community, a pool of suspects and a steady stream of revelations that shift suspicion from one character to another. Maddie solves the murder like a puzzle, or a recipe, making it a classic "whodunit" rather than a suspenseful thriller, which was perfect for my taste.
It was a quick, engaging read that kept me guessing until the end, though I only wish the big final reveal had been a bit more surprising. While it is the second book in the series, the first investigation is only briefly mentioned, so this can easily be read as a standalone. I also really liked the relationship building between Maddie and Tom and can't wait to see where it goes.
Thanks to NetGalley, Fliss Chester and Bookouture for the opportunity to read an uncorrected proof copy of this delightful book. I am already looking forward to the next Maddie Penrose mystery!
July 21, 2026
Midsummers Day often brings with it some strange happenings...but no-one is prepared for the body of a local man to wash up on the beach. It's clearly a murder - the poor man has a knife sticking out of his back - but who did it? And why?
I wish I could rate this more highly, I really do. There were some really fun things about this - Cornwall is always a great setting for a start, the Goats were a delight, and the lost treasure of King Arthur? Absolutely here for that. It's not explicitly said but it is implied that Maddie may have ADHD - there's a lot made of her slightly wonky thought process and her tendency to go off on tangents, and I quite enjoyed seeing that on page but without it being a labelled thing or it being wildly exaggerated in the writing. I also like it when books touch on real issues, and we did get that here when Maddie talks about the impact it would have on the town if the tourists can't come to the beach.
That is rather a lot of me actively searching for positives though. Maddie is quite an irritating character - I found her constant questioning of whether there's really a connection between her and Tom bordered on simpering, the hostility she feels towards Tom's colleague is baseless, she kept on handling pieces of evidence while actually thinking that she shouldn't, and honestly as far as I can tell didn't really have any reason to get involved in the investigation...
I was happy with who the killer was, I could definitely see it - but as a reader it would have been almost impossible to work out whodunnit and the motive was so far fetched that it made no sense. The random cameo from the owner of the goats felt like nothing more than an attempt to shoehorn in a character from book one an fun though their appearance was, it was pretty pointless.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
I wish I could rate this more highly, I really do. There were some really fun things about this - Cornwall is always a great setting for a start, the Goats were a delight, and the lost treasure of King Arthur? Absolutely here for that. It's not explicitly said but it is implied that Maddie may have ADHD - there's a lot made of her slightly wonky thought process and her tendency to go off on tangents, and I quite enjoyed seeing that on page but without it being a labelled thing or it being wildly exaggerated in the writing. I also like it when books touch on real issues, and we did get that here when Maddie talks about the impact it would have on the town if the tourists can't come to the beach.
That is rather a lot of me actively searching for positives though. Maddie is quite an irritating character - I found her constant questioning of whether there's really a connection between her and Tom bordered on simpering, the hostility she feels towards Tom's colleague is baseless, she kept on handling pieces of evidence while actually thinking that she shouldn't, and honestly as far as I can tell didn't really have any reason to get involved in the investigation...
I was happy with who the killer was, I could definitely see it - but as a reader it would have been almost impossible to work out whodunnit and the motive was so far fetched that it made no sense. The random cameo from the owner of the goats felt like nothing more than an attempt to shoehorn in a character from book one an fun though their appearance was, it was pretty pointless.
- Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed the second installment of this series! It had everything I hoped for; quaint English village, memorable characters, a cozy mystery, and more importantly baked goods and cute cats.
When a body washes up to shore with a knife in the back, Maddie is plunged into investigating the mysterious death especially when it's a fellow book club member. Who has motive to kill him? While Maddie is trying to figure this out, another member of the book club turns up dead. As Maddie continues to investigate she realizes that her grandmother might be in danger and she will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
I really enjoyed that we finally get some more backstory on Maddie, it really helped me shape and understand her character as I was reading the book which made me like her so much more. Nor, as always is your typical English granny; cranky, loves to bake and eat cakes, and meddles in people's lives. I also enjoyed that the romance between Tom and Maddie flourished a bit more. I'd like to know more about Tom in the next installment, in this book it seemed we got to know him a little more and was able to connect more with the character.
The setting and writing were also great. The writing flowed, the descriptions were well thought out so it was easy to fall into the English village vibe by the sea. It felt like I was there. The setting is beautiful which makes me want to up root my life and live in a quaint English village.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I finished it in one sitting and would recommend to anyone who likes a cozy mystery.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When a body washes up to shore with a knife in the back, Maddie is plunged into investigating the mysterious death especially when it's a fellow book club member. Who has motive to kill him? While Maddie is trying to figure this out, another member of the book club turns up dead. As Maddie continues to investigate she realizes that her grandmother might be in danger and she will do whatever it takes to keep her safe.
I really enjoyed that we finally get some more backstory on Maddie, it really helped me shape and understand her character as I was reading the book which made me like her so much more. Nor, as always is your typical English granny; cranky, loves to bake and eat cakes, and meddles in people's lives. I also enjoyed that the romance between Tom and Maddie flourished a bit more. I'd like to know more about Tom in the next installment, in this book it seemed we got to know him a little more and was able to connect more with the character.
The setting and writing were also great. The writing flowed, the descriptions were well thought out so it was easy to fall into the English village vibe by the sea. It felt like I was there. The setting is beautiful which makes me want to up root my life and live in a quaint English village.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book. I finished it in one sitting and would recommend to anyone who likes a cozy mystery.
Thank you to Net Galley and the publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for the ARC.
This was such a delightful cosy mystery. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble stepping straight into Maddie's world and quickly found myself invested in both the mystery and the characters.
I saw another reviewer mention that the red herrings feel a little awkward, but honestly, I disagree. For me, they were part of the fun. Fliss Chester does a great job of keeping suspicion moving around the cast and giving multiple characters plausible motives without losing the light, cosy atmosphere that makes the genre so appealing. This isn't a suspense-heavy thriller. It's a classic whodunit, and it embraces that wholeheartedly.
I particularly enjoyed Maddie as a protagonist. She's observant and intelligent without feeling unrealistically gifted, and her interactions with both her grandmother, Nor, and local policeman Tom were some of my favourite parts of the book. Nor brings warmth and humour to almost every scene she's in, while Tom and Maddie's growing relationship adds a lovely warmth to the story. Both of these elements really shone in the final chapters too.
I did work out the mystery fairly early, but I still cycled through several theories along the way and second guessed myself. Even when I suspected I had figured it all out, I wasn't entirely convinced I was right and there were elements that were a mystery until the final pages, keeping me engrossed in the story.
Overall, this was a fun, cosy, and cleverly plotted cosy crime novel with a likeable protagonist and a charming setting, and just enough mystery to keep me questioning. I found the name 'Pendragon I'll happily continue with the series.
This was such a delightful cosy mystery. I haven't read the first book in the series, but I had no trouble stepping straight into Maddie's world and quickly found myself invested in both the mystery and the characters.
I saw another reviewer mention that the red herrings feel a little awkward, but honestly, I disagree. For me, they were part of the fun. Fliss Chester does a great job of keeping suspicion moving around the cast and giving multiple characters plausible motives without losing the light, cosy atmosphere that makes the genre so appealing. This isn't a suspense-heavy thriller. It's a classic whodunit, and it embraces that wholeheartedly.
I particularly enjoyed Maddie as a protagonist. She's observant and intelligent without feeling unrealistically gifted, and her interactions with both her grandmother, Nor, and local policeman Tom were some of my favourite parts of the book. Nor brings warmth and humour to almost every scene she's in, while Tom and Maddie's growing relationship adds a lovely warmth to the story. Both of these elements really shone in the final chapters too.
I did work out the mystery fairly early, but I still cycled through several theories along the way and second guessed myself. Even when I suspected I had figured it all out, I wasn't entirely convinced I was right and there were elements that were a mystery until the final pages, keeping me engrossed in the story.
Overall, this was a fun, cosy, and cleverly plotted cosy crime novel with a likeable protagonist and a charming setting, and just enough mystery to keep me questioning. I found the name 'Pendragon I'll happily continue with the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Murder at the Cornish Book Club is exactly the kind of cozy mystery that feels like a warm scone fresh from the oven—comforting, a little indulgent, and with just enough bite to keep things interesting. Fliss Chester brings together all the ingredients of a delightful whodunnit: a seaside village, a quirky cast of locals, a book club full of secrets, and an amateur sleuth who’s impossible not to root for.
Maddie Penrose is a joy to follow. She’s enthusiastic, curious, and wonderfully human as she settles into life with her feisty gran, Nor. The dynamic between them adds warmth to every chapter, and the small‑village setting is painted with such affection that you can practically smell the sea breeze and freshly baked scones.
The mystery itself is great fun. Quentin’s murder sets off a cascade of revelations, and I loved how everyone in the book club seems to have a motive. The romance author with a sharp edge, the secretive writer, the evasive spouse—each suspect adds a new layer of intrigue. And just when you think you’ve got it sorted, a second murder raises the stakes and tightens the net.
What really elevates the story is the emotional thread involving Nor. The discovery Maddie uncovers adds a personal urgency that makes the final act especially gripping.
Light, witty, and packed with red herrings, this is a perfect pick for fans of Agatha Christie‑esque puzzles with a modern, cozy twist. A delightful escape to the Cornish coast with a mystery that keeps you turning pages.
with thanks to Fliss Chester, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Maddie Penrose is a joy to follow. She’s enthusiastic, curious, and wonderfully human as she settles into life with her feisty gran, Nor. The dynamic between them adds warmth to every chapter, and the small‑village setting is painted with such affection that you can practically smell the sea breeze and freshly baked scones.
The mystery itself is great fun. Quentin’s murder sets off a cascade of revelations, and I loved how everyone in the book club seems to have a motive. The romance author with a sharp edge, the secretive writer, the evasive spouse—each suspect adds a new layer of intrigue. And just when you think you’ve got it sorted, a second murder raises the stakes and tightens the net.
What really elevates the story is the emotional thread involving Nor. The discovery Maddie uncovers adds a personal urgency that makes the final act especially gripping.
Light, witty, and packed with red herrings, this is a perfect pick for fans of Agatha Christie‑esque puzzles with a modern, cozy twist. A delightful escape to the Cornish coast with a mystery that keeps you turning pages.
with thanks to Fliss Chester, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The early morning swim by those brave enough to do so, was disrupted by a scream - Julia had discovered a dead body at the edge of the ocean, washed in by the waves. When Maddie Penrose rushed up, they were horrified to discover one of their book club members, Quentin, had an antique knife in his back. DI Tom Trevelyan was soon on the scene and investigations began. But the crime scene, which was taped off, meant the beach was no longer accessible both to locals and tourists. Maddie needed to uncover the killer herself, or their tea shop might go under, along with other locals and their shops.
When a second member of the book club was murdered, the digging became more frantic. Something to do with treasure, with four people decades ago, and only one name left. And it was Maddie's grandmother, Nor's name. Maddie knew she just had to help Tom to her full capacity.
Murder at the Cornish Book Club is the 2nd in the Maddie Penrose series by Fliss Chester and I enjoyed it very much. With the beginning of a gentle romance, some great characters - including the two cats, Burnt Toast and Crumpet - as well as a herd of mischievous goats, the fun and entertaining cosy mystery suited me just fine! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
When a second member of the book club was murdered, the digging became more frantic. Something to do with treasure, with four people decades ago, and only one name left. And it was Maddie's grandmother, Nor's name. Maddie knew she just had to help Tom to her full capacity.
Murder at the Cornish Book Club is the 2nd in the Maddie Penrose series by Fliss Chester and I enjoyed it very much. With the beginning of a gentle romance, some great characters - including the two cats, Burnt Toast and Crumpet - as well as a herd of mischievous goats, the fun and entertaining cosy mystery suited me just fine! Highly recommended.
With thanks to NetGalley & Bookouture for my digital ARC to read and review.
July 20, 2026
I was surprised to realise that this is a long established author. Maybe it's because this is only the second in a series, but the writing style came across as somewhat unpolished for me. Maddie probably has ADHD, she talks about her unusual thought process, and how annoying it must be for other people, yet has zero patience with her Gran who she admits, has the same type of mindset. Speaking of her Gran, what was all that dancing around the subject for? Yes, the topic was uncomfortable but there was a ~murder~ and she just didn't seem to care. Along with withholding evidence, lying, tampering with evidence, touching things constantly to make them inadmissible and get other people touching them... the weird love triangle that was all in her head... Maddie was not a fun character to be with.
There was some good stuff, it was a great location and I always enjoy anything that is even vaguely connected to the Arthurian legends. Plus, there was a very amusing and cute side plot involving goats causing chaos and they were just a pure delight. Hopefully they will be in the next book in the series, they brought some much needed life and energy to their chapters.
I hate to be negative but that has to be one of the most far fetched and weakest motives I've ever read. Honestly, I would have taken 'they were insane and did it for the lols' over what we actually got.
I can't see myself continuing this series.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
There was some good stuff, it was a great location and I always enjoy anything that is even vaguely connected to the Arthurian legends. Plus, there was a very amusing and cute side plot involving goats causing chaos and they were just a pure delight. Hopefully they will be in the next book in the series, they brought some much needed life and energy to their chapters.
I hate to be negative but that has to be one of the most far fetched and weakest motives I've ever read. Honestly, I would have taken 'they were insane and did it for the lols' over what we actually got.
I can't see myself continuing this series.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
June 29, 2026
Maddie Penrose has settled nicely into her new life in a charming Cornish seaside village, where she helps her grandmother, Nor, run her cozy teashop. She also seems to have a talent for solving murders, and that skill is put to the test once again in the second installment of Fliss Chester’s delightful cozy mystery series.
While waiting to serve tea to a group of annual midsummer swimmers, Maddie and her friends witness a shocking discovery when a body washes ashore with an ornate knife in its back. The victim, Quentin Roskelly, was a member of the book club that meets at Nor’s teashop, and it quickly becomes clear that he wasn’t well liked. With so many possible suspects, Maddie can’t resist investigating alongside her almost-beau, DI Tom Trevelyan.
When another book club member is murdered, Maddie realizes the killer may not be finished. With the danger growing ever closer to home, she races to uncover the truth before someone else, perhaps even Maddie or Nor, becomes the next victim.
Filled with a charming Cornish setting, lovable characters, humor, and bookish references, Murder at the Cornish Book Club is an engaging cozy mystery. Although Maddie is the central sleuth, Nor often steals the spotlight with her warmth and wit, adding an extra layer of charm to an already delightful story. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
While waiting to serve tea to a group of annual midsummer swimmers, Maddie and her friends witness a shocking discovery when a body washes ashore with an ornate knife in its back. The victim, Quentin Roskelly, was a member of the book club that meets at Nor’s teashop, and it quickly becomes clear that he wasn’t well liked. With so many possible suspects, Maddie can’t resist investigating alongside her almost-beau, DI Tom Trevelyan.
When another book club member is murdered, Maddie realizes the killer may not be finished. With the danger growing ever closer to home, she races to uncover the truth before someone else, perhaps even Maddie or Nor, becomes the next victim.
Filled with a charming Cornish setting, lovable characters, humor, and bookish references, Murder at the Cornish Book Club is an engaging cozy mystery. Although Maddie is the central sleuth, Nor often steals the spotlight with her warmth and wit, adding an extra layer of charm to an already delightful story. I’m definitely looking forward to the next installment.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5 Stars
Maddie Penrose is settling into Cornish life with her fun and feisty grandmother, Nor, helping out at the village book club and enjoying the occasional G&T in the pub with handsome police officer DI Tom Trevelyan. But the midsummer dawn swim is shattered when Quentin, a member of the book club & book shop owner washes ashore dead, with a knife in his back. A map of the area is also washed ashore. No sooner has the ink dried on the page of the first killing, another takes place – and the second victim is also a member of the book club! As Maddie frantically scrambles to get her clues down in black and white, she unearths a discovery connected to Nor. Is her gran the next victim on the list?
The second book in the series & another delightful cosy mystery. I’m growing to love Maddie & I love her relationship with Nor & I also like how her relationship with Tom is developing. The mystery is intriguing & centres around a treasure may. However all is not as it seems, there are of course twists, turns & red herrings as well as secrets. The characters have depth, the descriptions of Cornwall are delightful, the pace is good & there’s a good dollop of humour. I thoroughly enjoyed it
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Maddie Penrose is settling into Cornish life with her fun and feisty grandmother, Nor, helping out at the village book club and enjoying the occasional G&T in the pub with handsome police officer DI Tom Trevelyan. But the midsummer dawn swim is shattered when Quentin, a member of the book club & book shop owner washes ashore dead, with a knife in his back. A map of the area is also washed ashore. No sooner has the ink dried on the page of the first killing, another takes place – and the second victim is also a member of the book club! As Maddie frantically scrambles to get her clues down in black and white, she unearths a discovery connected to Nor. Is her gran the next victim on the list?
The second book in the series & another delightful cosy mystery. I’m growing to love Maddie & I love her relationship with Nor & I also like how her relationship with Tom is developing. The mystery is intriguing & centres around a treasure may. However all is not as it seems, there are of course twists, turns & red herrings as well as secrets. The characters have depth, the descriptions of Cornwall are delightful, the pace is good & there’s a good dollop of humour. I thoroughly enjoyed it
I voluntarily read and reviewed a special copy of this book; all thoughts and opinions are my own
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
June in Cornwall is idyllic and Maddie Penrose is enjoying the warmer weather but not to the point where she's planning to join her gran, Nor, for the midsummer morning wild swim! Providing the tea and cakes for afterwards is far more her happy place! When one of the swimmers is discovered with a knife in their back and the very easy on the eye, DI Tom Trevelyan is already on the scene, Maddie finds herself in the middle of another murder investigation! The discovery of another body, a treasure map somehow linked to Nor, and far too many suspects all of a sudden nothing is as simple as she would like and it's probably best not to mention the goats!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. The second book in the series means Maddie and the other main protagonists are more fully formed and I really enjoyed this. The storyline was fun and the Cornish landscape and lifestyle once again shone through. I love the way Maddie treats her investigation as if it was a recipe especially as it is reproduced at the end of the book. This is going to be an entertaining series and I'm definitely aboard for the ride.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Bookouture, but the opinions expressed are my own. The second book in the series means Maddie and the other main protagonists are more fully formed and I really enjoyed this. The storyline was fun and the Cornish landscape and lifestyle once again shone through. I love the way Maddie treats her investigation as if it was a recipe especially as it is reproduced at the end of the book. This is going to be an entertaining series and I'm definitely aboard for the ride.
July 1, 2026
Maddie Penrose has relocated to the Cornish seaside to help her grandmother with her tearoom, which is where her grandmother's book club of eclectic members meet. Maddie is also a bit smitten with local DI Tom Trevelyan. Some of the book club members are at the beach for an early morning swim and Maddie is manning the cart of tea and sweets when the body of one of the members husbands is found with a knife in his back. Not just any knife but one tied to local legends. The beach is cut off from anyone until the murder is found. Maddie needs to find the culprit and get the beach opened back up in time for the summer tourists that her grandmother's business is counting on.
This story is full of great characters, treasure maps, secrets, and keeps you guessing up until the end. I really had trouble putting it down. I also am happy to see the relationship between Maddie and Tom grow. Nor, Maddie's grandmother, is probably my favorite character. This has everything you want in a story to dive into when you are escaping that brutal summer heat.
I am looking forward to the next installment of this series.
Thanks Netgalley and Bookouture Books for the chance to read this story and give my opinion.
This story is full of great characters, treasure maps, secrets, and keeps you guessing up until the end. I really had trouble putting it down. I also am happy to see the relationship between Maddie and Tom grow. Nor, Maddie's grandmother, is probably my favorite character. This has everything you want in a story to dive into when you are escaping that brutal summer heat.
I am looking forward to the next installment of this series.
Thanks Netgalley and Bookouture Books for the chance to read this story and give my opinion.
June 4, 2026
First time author for me but it was okay.
The book was about Maddie who moved from London to Cornwall to help run a tea shop with her grandmother. She gets involved with solving the murders of two book club members surrounding a mysterious map of Pendragons Treasure which was fictitious. I loved the Cornish setting by the sea and the book club featured in this book. The grandmother was humorous and pretty spry for an 82yr old senior. The story sort of dragged a bit because there was very little action which I did not like. The reveal of the villain lost steam for me because the red herrings were used awkwardly because normally I can pretty much guess who the villain is before the ending. In this book I was not which was disappointing to me. Otherwise I loved the humor especially the goats invading the teashop chewing up everything in sight. I enjoyed the romance and crime solving partnership between Maddie and Tom as well.
Even though this was the second book in this series, it was okay to read as a stand alone. I would like to go back and read the first book.
Recommended for all who enjoy cozy mysteries.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
The book was about Maddie who moved from London to Cornwall to help run a tea shop with her grandmother. She gets involved with solving the murders of two book club members surrounding a mysterious map of Pendragons Treasure which was fictitious. I loved the Cornish setting by the sea and the book club featured in this book. The grandmother was humorous and pretty spry for an 82yr old senior. The story sort of dragged a bit because there was very little action which I did not like. The reveal of the villain lost steam for me because the red herrings were used awkwardly because normally I can pretty much guess who the villain is before the ending. In this book I was not which was disappointing to me. Otherwise I loved the humor especially the goats invading the teashop chewing up everything in sight. I enjoyed the romance and crime solving partnership between Maddie and Tom as well.
Even though this was the second book in this series, it was okay to read as a stand alone. I would like to go back and read the first book.
Recommended for all who enjoy cozy mysteries.
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed Murder in a Cornish Teashop (not to mention Fliss Chester’s Cressida Fawcett series), so I was thrilled to get my hands on Murder at the Cornish Book Club.
This time around, Maddie and Co get involved in a most mysterious murder on the local beach. I thoroughly enjoyed myself!
I already liked this collection of characters, as getting to know them better in this book was most enjoyable. As well as the human characters, there were most entertaining animals. This cast are definitely going to become old friends.
The setting was delightful, I love the coast, so books set there are always appreciated. It was fun to explore the town a little more this time, and I loved the bookshop selling both new and second hand.
The plot was a fascinating one, with mysterious treasure maps and burglaries, as well as the murders. I had a wonderful time trying to work out who was to blame alongside Maddie and Tom.
Overall, this was another excellent mystery, with humour, a lovely setting, and great characters. What more could you possibly want?
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
This time around, Maddie and Co get involved in a most mysterious murder on the local beach. I thoroughly enjoyed myself!
I already liked this collection of characters, as getting to know them better in this book was most enjoyable. As well as the human characters, there were most entertaining animals. This cast are definitely going to become old friends.
The setting was delightful, I love the coast, so books set there are always appreciated. It was fun to explore the town a little more this time, and I loved the bookshop selling both new and second hand.
The plot was a fascinating one, with mysterious treasure maps and burglaries, as well as the murders. I had a wonderful time trying to work out who was to blame alongside Maddie and Tom.
Overall, this was another excellent mystery, with humour, a lovely setting, and great characters. What more could you possibly want?
I was given a copy of this book, my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this second book in the series though it did seem a bit slow to start. A member of Nor's book club washes ashore dead, with a knife in his back. Maddie finds a sheet of paper floating not far from where the body washed up and it turns out to be a map. There are four sets of initials on the map, one of which belongs to her Gran, but Nor is not very forthcoming about what the map is. Maddie starts talking to people and doing her own investigation but also keeps DI Tom Trevelyan updated on what she finds. Oh, and there are mystery goats.
There were plenty of suspects here and all seemed to have good reason for wanting our victim dead. A herd of goats showing up in the tea room and eating all of the napkins and tableclothes don't help any. Maddie and Nor have such a special relationship and it's nice seeing them work together. And I like that Maddie keeps Tom in the loop about what she's found. I look forward to seeing more of them together.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC
There were plenty of suspects here and all seemed to have good reason for wanting our victim dead. A herd of goats showing up in the tea room and eating all of the napkins and tableclothes don't help any. Maddie and Nor have such a special relationship and it's nice seeing them work together. And I like that Maddie keeps Tom in the loop about what she's found. I look forward to seeing more of them together.
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This may only be the second in the Maddie Penrose series, but I already feel as though we know Maddie, her gran and 'her' policeman quite well. This is a great series, set in beautiful Cornwall. Maddie herself is both intuitive and chaotic, and that adds to her charm and likability.
This time, Maddie finds herself thrown into another murder investigation after the discovery of a body at a dawn swim. It seems that many people have reason to want the dead man out of the way, but it's not immediately obvious if any of them would want it enough to actually commit murder.
I love Maddie's less-than-perfect approach to trying to figure out what happened. She scribbles notes in her grandmother's recipe books in a way that I'm sure only she might be able to make sense of them.
This is a great series, and I'm looking forward to finding out what might be next for this cook and amateur sleuth.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
This time, Maddie finds herself thrown into another murder investigation after the discovery of a body at a dawn swim. It seems that many people have reason to want the dead man out of the way, but it's not immediately obvious if any of them would want it enough to actually commit murder.
I love Maddie's less-than-perfect approach to trying to figure out what happened. She scribbles notes in her grandmother's recipe books in a way that I'm sure only she might be able to make sense of them.
This is a great series, and I'm looking forward to finding out what might be next for this cook and amateur sleuth.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
June 27, 2026
This is the second book in what is already a very good cozy crime series, set in modern day on the beautiful Cornish coast.
Our protagonist is Maddie, who has now given up her life in London as a chef and settled happily helping her nan running a tea shop in her home village. Maddie is a complex character who is being revealed by the author in layers and the second books shows more of her grit and determination to do the right thing as her precious nan and her book club friends are put in danger because of events from many years ago.
There is a good plot and a great method where the reader can see how Maddie’s mind pours over the clues like ingredients for a recipe, helping her hopefully soon to be policeman beau catch the villain.
I would definitely recommend this for fans of this genre and reading book one would help with the underwood the characters, but is not essential.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Our protagonist is Maddie, who has now given up her life in London as a chef and settled happily helping her nan running a tea shop in her home village. Maddie is a complex character who is being revealed by the author in layers and the second books shows more of her grit and determination to do the right thing as her precious nan and her book club friends are put in danger because of events from many years ago.
There is a good plot and a great method where the reader can see how Maddie’s mind pours over the clues like ingredients for a recipe, helping her hopefully soon to be policeman beau catch the villain.
I would definitely recommend this for fans of this genre and reading book one would help with the underwood the characters, but is not essential.
Thanks to Netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Who would have expected that an early morning swim in the sea would lead to another murder for Maddie to investigate. She may be an amateur but she has this way of just getting to the heart of the matter!
There were red herrings a plenty and the story moved at a good pace. We were never left hanging for too long and Maddie always imparted information to us as we went rather then giving a big "aha" reveal.
Maddie and her grandmother, Nor, may be generations apart but they are so alike and work so well together. Maddie chivvies her gran along and tries to take over things without making Nor feel old, useless or in the way. She understands the experience that Nor has is invaluable, both in their business and in their investigations into the townsfolk.
I really am enjoying her wee friendship with Tom. He might be the town cop but he's also a person and he manages to blend his work life and home life really well. He is willing to accept help from "amateurs" and doesn't dismiss or overlook Maddie's contributions.
A great wee series that I am completely happy to continue reading and I really am invested in Maddie, Nor and co and can't wait to have more adventures with them.
There were red herrings a plenty and the story moved at a good pace. We were never left hanging for too long and Maddie always imparted information to us as we went rather then giving a big "aha" reveal.
Maddie and her grandmother, Nor, may be generations apart but they are so alike and work so well together. Maddie chivvies her gran along and tries to take over things without making Nor feel old, useless or in the way. She understands the experience that Nor has is invaluable, both in their business and in their investigations into the townsfolk.
I really am enjoying her wee friendship with Tom. He might be the town cop but he's also a person and he manages to blend his work life and home life really well. He is willing to accept help from "amateurs" and doesn't dismiss or overlook Maddie's contributions.
A great wee series that I am completely happy to continue reading and I really am invested in Maddie, Nor and co and can't wait to have more adventures with them.
June 29, 2026
Favorite Quote:
Celia Hollingsworth was a neat, prim woman, with short reddish-brown hair that never seemed to move. Her clothes seemed to follow suit, with an ironed crease down the front of her beige chinos and her white blouse collar standing up to attention too. It was no wonder she wasn’t at the midsummer swim this morning; Maddie couldn’t imagine what might happen if two such elemental forces of nature, equal in might, as Celia’s solid hair and the Celtic Sea, actually met.
My Review:
I will admit to having the wrong end of the stick in trying to solve this murder mystery; the clever Fliss Chester had me going in circles with this one and had easily led me astray with her confounding misdirections. She is far too clever for me, and I was completely flummoxed and sputtering into my wine goblet at the reveal. The little pea in my brain was working overtime and is too embarrassed for me to tell you who I thought it was.
Celia Hollingsworth was a neat, prim woman, with short reddish-brown hair that never seemed to move. Her clothes seemed to follow suit, with an ironed crease down the front of her beige chinos and her white blouse collar standing up to attention too. It was no wonder she wasn’t at the midsummer swim this morning; Maddie couldn’t imagine what might happen if two such elemental forces of nature, equal in might, as Celia’s solid hair and the Celtic Sea, actually met.
My Review:
I will admit to having the wrong end of the stick in trying to solve this murder mystery; the clever Fliss Chester had me going in circles with this one and had easily led me astray with her confounding misdirections. She is far too clever for me, and I was completely flummoxed and sputtering into my wine goblet at the reveal. The little pea in my brain was working overtime and is too embarrassed for me to tell you who I thought it was.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and I couldn't wait to read book two!!!
Maddie and her grandmother are busy trying to keep their little cafe afloat, when murder and mayhem rock their little town.
British mysteries are my favourite of all the cozy mysteries. There is something about reading a British mystery that reminds me of my teen years, discovering Agatha Christie books. These mysteries definitely give me the same feeling - absolutely cozy with a good mystery to solve.
This whodunnit was fan-freaking-tastic. There's murder, treasure and a map and a whole lot to piece together!!! I especially love how Maddie pieces together the mystery like putting together a recipe. As a baker myself, I love this!
If you love Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton you will love this series. A+!
Note: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for a review.
Maddie and her grandmother are busy trying to keep their little cafe afloat, when murder and mayhem rock their little town.
British mysteries are my favourite of all the cozy mysteries. There is something about reading a British mystery that reminds me of my teen years, discovering Agatha Christie books. These mysteries definitely give me the same feeling - absolutely cozy with a good mystery to solve.
This whodunnit was fan-freaking-tastic. There's murder, treasure and a map and a whole lot to piece together!!! I especially love how Maddie pieces together the mystery like putting together a recipe. As a baker myself, I love this!
If you love Agatha Christie and M.C. Beaton you will love this series. A+!
Note: I received a copy from the publisher in exchange for a review.
July 1, 2026
The second entry in this really adorable cosy series really hits the spot. Maddie and her Gran, Nor, running the tea shop makes for a great foundation from which all the chaos seems to reign as they try to figure out who is killing locals.
Is it tied to a secret that Gran is part of? Could she be targeted next? Maddie will do her best to try and figure out what is going on and protect her beloved Gran while also trying to help the local DI with whom she has become enamored. But the killer has other plans and Maddie will have to watch her step as she tries to out smart a killer and keep Gran, and herself, safe.
Cornish Cosies always hit the spot. But this one is particularly a favorite of mine. I love the dynamics between Maddie, Nor and Tom and will be back for more in this series.
Is it tied to a secret that Gran is part of? Could she be targeted next? Maddie will do her best to try and figure out what is going on and protect her beloved Gran while also trying to help the local DI with whom she has become enamored. But the killer has other plans and Maddie will have to watch her step as she tries to out smart a killer and keep Gran, and herself, safe.
Cornish Cosies always hit the spot. But this one is particularly a favorite of mine. I love the dynamics between Maddie, Nor and Tom and will be back for more in this series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Maddie has moved back to Penrose in Cornwall and runs the small teashop by the beach with her grandma Nor. Some of the older residents go for a Solstice Swim in the cold ocean, but when a body washes up, the event is over and the beach is closed for investigation. A closed beach is terrible for local business, so Maddie decides to hurry the opening along by doing her own snooping.
The local characters are fun and interesting, and Nor and Maddie are terrific together. The scene with the goats was hilarious! The mystery centers around the Pendragon Treasure, treasure maps, and rivalry between local authors. I enjoyed this mystery, which moves at a slower, leisurely pace and the setting.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
The local characters are fun and interesting, and Nor and Maddie are terrific together. The scene with the goats was hilarious! The mystery centers around the Pendragon Treasure, treasure maps, and rivalry between local authors. I enjoyed this mystery, which moves at a slower, leisurely pace and the setting.
Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The second book in this series where Maddie Penrose is helping her Grandmother, Nor, run her Tea shop on the Cornish coast. When a member of her Book Club is murdered Maddie swoops into action to seek the identity of the killer.
The book works well because Maddie's developing relationship with Detective Tom means she gains some insider information from time to time. He also manages to save her life a couple of times which is handy. There is a very exciting ending where Maddie and Nor go through a near death experience in a cave. All good, clean fun and ends well as all good cosies should. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The book works well because Maddie's developing relationship with Detective Tom means she gains some insider information from time to time. He also manages to save her life a couple of times which is handy. There is a very exciting ending where Maddie and Nor go through a near death experience in a cave. All good, clean fun and ends well as all good cosies should. Four stars.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a really enjoyable cozy mystery, the second in a series set in Cornwall and centered on Maddie, who has moved from London to help her gran run her tea room. The characters are well-drawn, the mystery itself is well plotted, and the setting really adds to the story. Maddie finds herself looking into murder and a potential hidden treasure linked to Maddie’s gran’s book club, alongside local inspector and potential love interest Tom. It’s a quick, very enjoyable read, and I look forward to the next in the series. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy. All views are entirely my own and offered voluntarily.
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