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The Country Club Murders #21
Evil Ways
No good deed goes unpunished.
Ellison agreed to one afternoon of bridge, one favor for a woman whose husband is having a heart attack. She doesn't ask who else is playing. She should have.
When Lavinia Denton dies at the bridge table, Ellison is sure she’s been murdered.
Ellison doesn’t mean to investigate. Really, she doesn’t. But people keep telling her things.
And all that information she didn’t ask for? It just might get her killed.
Ellison agreed to one afternoon of bridge, one favor for a woman whose husband is having a heart attack. She doesn't ask who else is playing. She should have.
When Lavinia Denton dies at the bridge table, Ellison is sure she’s been murdered.
Ellison doesn’t mean to investigate. Really, she doesn’t. But people keep telling her things.
And all that information she didn’t ask for? It just might get her killed.
212 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2026
About the author
Julie Mulhern
43 books1,717 followersJulie Mulhern is the USA Today bestselling author of The Country Club Murders and the Poppy Fields Adventures.
She is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean--and she's got an active imagination. Truth is--she's an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.
She is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean--and she's got an active imagination. Truth is--she's an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
October 15, 2026
A CCM book was exactly what my reading funk needed! This was a lot fun and I agree with others who mentioned that it felt like to return to form!
September 3, 2026
This is def one of my favorite series and I read this book in one seating.... Shear entertainment, delightful and well thought out. I love Ellison, Libba and can't believe I'm saying this.... Go Frances!!!
Giving it 5 stars because it was the perfect cozy pick me up (and also maybe slightly biased that I love this author!!!!)
Giving it 5 stars because it was the perfect cozy pick me up (and also maybe slightly biased that I love this author!!!!)
October 5, 2026
Irascible Lavinia Denton didn’t have many friends; how could she with how critical she was of everyone and everything? When she dies right in front of Ellison Jones while the latter was filling in to make a fourth at bridge, Ellison immediately suspects foul play — and she’s right. But why? Sure, Lavinia was insufferable, but did that rise to the level of murder?
As always, author Julie Mulhern packs this 21st entry in a spectacular series set in Kansas City in the 1970s with plenty of suspense and surprises — and, of course, humor. And I never saw the ending coming! Newbies can read Evil Ways as a stand-alone, but I recommend going back to catch up on this series as soon as possible. You don’t want to miss any of the fun.
As always, author Julie Mulhern packs this 21st entry in a spectacular series set in Kansas City in the 1970s with plenty of suspense and surprises — and, of course, humor. And I never saw the ending coming! Newbies can read Evil Ways as a stand-alone, but I recommend going back to catch up on this series as soon as possible. You don’t want to miss any of the fun.
September 9, 2026
Obviously I've really enjoyed all of these books, but this one really feels like a return to form, had a blast.
September 5, 2026
Fantastic! I am all caught up in the series and drop everything to read the next one when it releases. It never disappoints! I love the characters and the setting; the characters grow so much through each book and I enjoy catching up with them each time. The mysteries are always front and center, with plenty of twists and turns, and 70s nostalgia to keep you invested in it the whole time. Highly recommend the series but start at the beginning - there's just so much you miss without it.
September 14, 2026
I will echo what Cait said about this one feeling like a return to form. Really had fun with this one.
September 2, 2026
Another great Country Club Murders book. I read this start to end on the day it was published in the UK – I couldn’t stop till I found out who-dunnit.
This time, Ellison does not discover a dead body, but is actually present – and holding the hand – of the victim as she dies, at a bridge game no less. The victim is not liked, so Ellison feels there may be many people who wish her dead. But appearances may be deceiving.
So many ‘secret’ affairs going on in Kansas City among members of the various rich persons’ clubs – it seems that only Ellison and Anarchy, and Ellison’s parents are happily married, and not cheating
A lovely scene where Frances Walford actually sticks up for Libba (AND mentions the s-word!), as they all unite against neighbour Martha DuPuy, who is taking revenge on the dogs’ owners (bad Max, Finn and Pansy digging up flower beds again):
Fashion knowledge plays a role, and there is a big twist at the end, that I didn’t see coming.
Highly recommended as always
This time, Ellison does not discover a dead body, but is actually present – and holding the hand – of the victim as she dies, at a bridge game no less. The victim is not liked, so Ellison feels there may be many people who wish her dead. But appearances may be deceiving.
So many ‘secret’ affairs going on in Kansas City among members of the various rich persons’ clubs – it seems that only Ellison and Anarchy, and Ellison’s parents are happily married, and not cheating
A lovely scene where Frances Walford actually sticks up for Libba (AND mentions the s-word!), as they all unite against neighbour Martha DuPuy, who is taking revenge on the dogs’ owners (bad Max, Finn and Pansy digging up flower beds again):
“I think she is jealous. Ellison has a successful career, and you (Libba) have more sex in a week than she has in a year.”
Fashion knowledge plays a role, and there is a big twist at the end, that I didn’t see coming.
Highly recommended as always
September 2, 2026
I always love reading this book and going into this world. It's for sure a comfort read. Very quick. I read it in 3 hours this morning.
September 8, 2026
A great addition to the series! Really enjoyed this latest mystery ride with Ellison and crew. I thought there were a few good twists and I especially enjoy Libba as her next door neighbor. A fantastic cozy mystery series all around - as always, on pins and needles waiting for the next.
October 16, 2026
I don't have too much to say about this one other than it's always fun to return to this world. A really enjoyable plot and some fun subplots (Grace's boyfriend!), too!
September 2, 2026
Julie Mulhern does it every time!!!! I loved Evil Ways as much as I have loved most of the books in the series. In addition to a mystery that took me most of the book to figure out, I love watching the kids and Libba grow up, I love watching the romantic interaction between Ellison and Anarchy, I love Ellison's kindness and I appreciate the humor that keeps it all balanced. I want and Aggie!
September 5, 2026
Total fun light hearted series.
September 14, 2026
so much fun
I loved every one of the books in this series. I hope there are more soon! Yay, Ellison and Anarchy and the whole team.
I loved every one of the books in this series. I hope there are more soon! Yay, Ellison and Anarchy and the whole team.
October 18, 2026
This was B-E-A-UtyFul
There is no way anyone can top what Julie Mulhern does in the day and the funny as all get out day in the life of Ellison Jones. So, you read the summaryintroduction to the book’s premise. You alread6 know Ellison is going to no just find a body but to be there when the person dies. What you don’t know is that the hero’s spotlight is on Friendship. Deep friendship that makes for answers and avengers. We will be delighted by tres chic designer fashions of the 1970s, lovely examples of the power of women, and the best of reasons why being faithful is very important and highly sought after. The case Isa fun ride and the writing is a thriller meant to keep you on the edge of your seat. Sadly, this one may leave scars. So, buckle up, brush your hair, pin your scarfs and get ready for a 1975 ride that will literally take you through the flames. Enjoy!
There is no way anyone can top what Julie Mulhern does in the day and the funny as all get out day in the life of Ellison Jones. So, you read the summaryintroduction to the book’s premise. You alread6 know Ellison is going to no just find a body but to be there when the person dies. What you don’t know is that the hero’s spotlight is on Friendship. Deep friendship that makes for answers and avengers. We will be delighted by tres chic designer fashions of the 1970s, lovely examples of the power of women, and the best of reasons why being faithful is very important and highly sought after. The case Isa fun ride and the writing is a thriller meant to keep you on the edge of your seat. Sadly, this one may leave scars. So, buckle up, brush your hair, pin your scarfs and get ready for a 1975 ride that will literally take you through the flames. Enjoy!
September 15, 2026
a wonderful addition to the Country Club canon
I wait eagerly for each new Country Club Murders book; this is probably my favorite series. So I cannot claim to be an impartial reviewer, but I think Evil Ways is a great new chapter in Ellison’s life. I really enjoy the ‘70s nostalgia and Ellison, her family and friends are well-defined characters. The stories are interesting and Ellison’s involvement in Anarchy’s cases is fun to read. They have a great relationship. I did guess the murderer fairly early, which was the only negative, if you will. But the story was fast-paced and engaging and kept me reading til the end.
I wait eagerly for each new Country Club Murders book; this is probably my favorite series. So I cannot claim to be an impartial reviewer, but I think Evil Ways is a great new chapter in Ellison’s life. I really enjoy the ‘70s nostalgia and Ellison, her family and friends are well-defined characters. The stories are interesting and Ellison’s involvement in Anarchy’s cases is fun to read. They have a great relationship. I did guess the murderer fairly early, which was the only negative, if you will. But the story was fast-paced and engaging and kept me reading til the end.
September 6, 2026
A pleasant evening with Ellison Russell Jones and her friends and family in 1975 Kansas City Missouri.
The card game of Bridge gets deadly when Ellison is asked to sub for Barbara Sellers at Barbara's club. Barbara's partner, Lavinia is universally disliked and someone picked this day to bump-off Lavinia. Ellison finds the body and Anarchy is assigned the case. Mother is appalled and and the gang rally around Ellison.
This is book 21 in the series and I've grown fond of the characters and the author. I don't know Bridge or the terms, but my Bridge-playing friends are loving it.
The card game of Bridge gets deadly when Ellison is asked to sub for Barbara Sellers at Barbara's club. Barbara's partner, Lavinia is universally disliked and someone picked this day to bump-off Lavinia. Ellison finds the body and Anarchy is assigned the case. Mother is appalled and and the gang rally around Ellison.
This is book 21 in the series and I've grown fond of the characters and the author. I don't know Bridge or the terms, but my Bridge-playing friends are loving it.
September 3, 2026
I read the last 2 chapters 3 times
What an incredible stormy. I had an inkling who the killer might be, but I keep suspecting the wrong person. I had 2 or 3 people in mind.
Ellison and Anarchy are some of my favorite book characters. This series is one of my very favorites. Since I just retired-, I may re read the entire series. Julie Mulhern, please tell us you have the next book headed our way sooner than later.
What an incredible stormy. I had an inkling who the killer might be, but I keep suspecting the wrong person. I had 2 or 3 people in mind.
Ellison and Anarchy are some of my favorite book characters. This series is one of my very favorites. Since I just retired-, I may re read the entire series. Julie Mulhern, please tell us you have the next book headed our way sooner than later.
September 5, 2026
Good mystery.
There is always a really good murder mystery, but best of all is how much FUN the whole book is to read. (Books are to read - it’s a series). The characters are so real you might recognize a neighbor or relation and you will recognize their character. The 50’s were an interesting time to set the books, but since I wasn’t part of “them” this series is the best way for me to find out just how different we were.
There is always a really good murder mystery, but best of all is how much FUN the whole book is to read. (Books are to read - it’s a series). The characters are so real you might recognize a neighbor or relation and you will recognize their character. The 50’s were an interesting time to set the books, but since I wasn’t part of “them” this series is the best way for me to find out just how different we were.
September 28, 2026
Ellison agrees to sub for a friend at her bridge game. But doing a good deed isn’t always for the best. One of the other ladies dies at the table. She was poisoned, but who did it and why? Ellison ends up helping investigate because she seems to find things out better than the police. People talk to her. But did she find out too much? Great series set in the 70’s in Kansas City. I always look forward to what’s coming next. I’m betting you will too.
September 1, 2026
Another hit in the Country Club Murders series
Another fascinating puzzle for Ellison and Anarchy. When a woman is poisoned at Ellison's bridge table, no one appears to have a motive. As the story unravels, A different intended victim and an array of suspects emerge. Will Ellison solve the case in time to save another victim, as well as her own life?
Another fascinating puzzle for Ellison and Anarchy. When a woman is poisoned at Ellison's bridge table, no one appears to have a motive. As the story unravels, A different intended victim and an array of suspects emerge. Will Ellison solve the case in time to save another victim, as well as her own life?
September 2, 2026
Another fun read in this series
I have read all the books in the Country Club Murders, and continue to look forward to each new book. I grew up in a KC suburb and enjoy the time period references to the Plaza stores & restaurants. Fun cozy mystery with comfortable, likeable characters.
I have read all the books in the Country Club Murders, and continue to look forward to each new book. I grew up in a KC suburb and enjoy the time period references to the Plaza stores & restaurants. Fun cozy mystery with comfortable, likeable characters.
September 5, 2026
It's wonderful to be back in 1970's Kansas City!
I absolutely love this series and the latest installment did not disappoint. Ms. Mulhern always keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat. That said it is the characters I love and I enjoy visiting them in every new installment.
I absolutely love this series and the latest installment did not disappoint. Ms. Mulhern always keep me guessing and on the edge of my seat. That said it is the characters I love and I enjoy visiting them in every new installment.
September 24, 2026
More Twists and Turns
Just when you think you have it all figured out,.a. new villain sneaks up on you to make you rethink or revise. Besides figuring out the evil one,you're not even sure who the victim is.
A typical Julie Milberg great resd. I had trouble putting this one down
Just when you think you have it all figured out,.a. new villain sneaks up on you to make you rethink or revise. Besides figuring out the evil one,you're not even sure who the victim is.
A typical Julie Milberg great resd. I had trouble putting this one down
September 1, 2026
Great Read
Ms. Mulhern does it again. This book is as good if not better than all the other books in this series. She continues writing her plots with the same characters we know and adds new interesting ones. I love her plot twists.
Ms. Mulhern does it again. This book is as good if not better than all the other books in this series. She continues writing her plots with the same characters we know and adds new interesting ones. I love her plot twists.
September 3, 2026
The Best!
I think I have said this about Julie Mulhern's books but I will say it again This One is the best! One thing I am looking forward to though is when mother dearest calls her Mrs Jones. I am sure I am not the only person that read this in one sitting. Thanks again Julie.
I think I have said this about Julie Mulhern's books but I will say it again This One is the best! One thing I am looking forward to though is when mother dearest calls her Mrs Jones. I am sure I am not the only person that read this in one sitting. Thanks again Julie.
September 3, 2026
This is my favorite series and the latest did not disappoint. I always enjoy reading about 1970s Kansas City and especially enjoy the inclusion of Ellison social life and especially the shopping and how can you go wrong when a purse is a continuous part of the plot. Can’t wait for the next one!
September 3, 2026
Evil Ways
Julie Mulhern keeps me entertained with her awesome characters and great storyline. I raced through this book and discovered that this story ended too soon! I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series ( hint...hint)
Julie Mulhern keeps me entertained with her awesome characters and great storyline. I raced through this book and discovered that this story ended too soon! I am eagerly awaiting the next book in this series ( hint...hint)
September 6, 2026
Love Ellison Jones!
These books are so good. I binge them and then regret it when they are finished. True friendship is explored, defined, put to the test and finally, with the aid of a heavy ashtray, the hero of the day.
These books are so good. I binge them and then regret it when they are finished. True friendship is explored, defined, put to the test and finally, with the aid of a heavy ashtray, the hero of the day.
September 6, 2026
If my only objection is choosing salty sticky snacks for regular bridge games, then I guess I have no complaints. Do bridge foursomes play with brand new decks every week at a country club? Sticky cards are the worst!
September 6, 2026
Another Great Read
All the members are back with another mystery. As usual, Julie Number brings us to an early Country Club life with plenty of questions. Start reading only if you can devote time for the entire book. You will not want to set it down.
All the members are back with another mystery. As usual, Julie Number brings us to an early Country Club life with plenty of questions. Start reading only if you can devote time for the entire book. You will not want to set it down.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews