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The First Edition - An English Village Cosy With A Ghostly Twist: A Bloomsbury Bookshop Mystery Novella

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The bookshop comes with a cat. The cottage comes with a ghost. The village comes with a body in the garden. Cleo Marchmont travelled to her great-aunt’s Sussex cottage for a funeral.

She did not expect the cat.
She did not expect the ghost.
She really did not expect the dead woman at the bottom of the garden steps.

When Cleo arrives in Firlestone for a quiet week of cottage-clearing, she gets an opinionated tabby called Boswell who is choosing her against her better judgement, and a Great-Aunt Vivienne who has been waiting eighteen months for someone to talk to.

Then the village’s most disliked resident is found dead at the foot of her own garden steps.
The constable is content to call it a tragic fall.
Vivienne, with one raised eyebrow, is not.

A scone still warm on the counter. A kettle on a low heat. A bone-coloured hairpin in the gravel.

Cleo has four days to catch a killer, pack the cottage, and post the keys back to the solicitor. Someone in this village has already noticed she is asking too many questions.

And in her bag are the keys to a struggling Bloomsbury bookshop she has not yet seen.

The First Edition is the standalone prequel novella to The Bloomsbury Bookshop Mysteries. For readers of Lucy Connelly, Verity Bright, and Jackie Baldwin.

100 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 21, 2026

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Imogen Penrose

6 books5 followers

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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
Profile Image for Ferne (Enthusiastic Reader).
1,537 reviews55 followers
July 28, 2026
Cleo Marchmont has inherited her great-aunt Vivienne's cottage in Firlestone and a bookshop in Bloomsbury. Traveling from Edinburgh to a village in Sussex, England, Cleo has given herself a week to clear out the cottage. Although she's familiar with the place, she hasn't visited since she was eleven. Cleo is keenly observant, noticing not only people's expressions but also their subtle mannerisms and actions. Boswell, a perceptive tabby cat, also has a knack for noticing things—and making his own judgments—as does another awaiting Cleo's return.

This prequel novella is one of the titles marketed as a "Two-Hour Mystery, Thriller & Suspense Short Read." It is written in a restrained, observational style that favors clear, unadorned prose and subtle detail, with minimalistic description. Although it took me a little time to adjust to this approach, it ultimately complements Cleo Marchmont's character and the story's understated atmosphere, inviting the reader to pick up on subtle nuances. The emotional undercurrents and gradual development of relationships emerge naturally, particularly as Cleo's brief visit takes unexpected turns. The writing is matter-of-fact yet quietly evocative, skillfully creating a vivid sense of place and character.

I look forward to Cleo's arrival in Bloomsbury to investigate the bookshop in Book 1.
46 reviews
July 6, 2026
Cleo Marchmont's aunt Vivienne has passed, and she's headed to the funeral. Cleo has also inherited a bookstore and been tasked with packing up her aunt's belongings and preparing the house for the new tenants. What she doesn't know is that the house comes with a ghost and a cat that seems more than just a cat. If that wasn't enough, the body of the village's most disliked resident is found almost as soon as she arrives. At first, it seems as though the woman has had a terrible, accidental fall. But it quickly becomes clear that this was no accident.

This is a prequel to a series, so it was more of a short story. However, there was a lot packed into this charming book. I was immediately impressed with her writing style and wonderful use of imagery.

"She watched the downs come up on her right. Soft and folded, sheep on them like spilled rice"

"St Botolph's churchyard sat behind a flint wall and a low gate that had not closed straight in living memory. The yew at the south corner was older than the church, which was old enough. The morning sun came in flat across the headstones."

The descriptions and mentions of small details made me feel like I was seeing exactly what the main character saw. A small, older, village that was filled with quaint houses and businesses. And also filled with a group of long-time residents that were exactly who you would expect to find in such a place. Since it was not a full-length novel, the secondary characters were only partially developed, but it was definitely enough for the story.

One thing I really appreciated was that it did not turn silly. I love a good cozy mystery, but sometimes they can be a bit, well, silly. This was more of an amateur sleuth story that was less focused on humor and more thoughtful and a little bittersweet. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to the rest of the series.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Yoder.
311 reviews9 followers
June 28, 2026
A millennial, a ghost, and a cat walk into a bakery…

And nothing of interest happens.

Have you ever see the most amazing loaf of fresh bread only to tear into it and its not done, that is what reading the First Edition feels like.

This prequel novella has all the elements of a good cozy mystery but somehow these elements do not come together into a interesting story. The first big problem for me is that all of the characters feel out of place, especially the ghost. The ghost in this story feels shoe-horned in to try and capture that paranormal and only for that reason.

The story feels like ideas from several different storyboards were all pulled together to make this novella happen. When you read through you can see where there are good ideas, but none of them develop in the slightest. Then the murder mystery is utterly uninteresting and extremely obvious. The writing seems to hold your hand so you don't drift and develop any suspicions or hypothesis of your own.

The best part of this story is the well written cat, which has more personality than the rest of the cast combined. So I know the author can write, but it just doesn't happen in The First Edition. I have a suspicion that this novella may have been rushed to meet a self-imposed deadline, so I would like to see what the author can do with proper editing and time to compose a full novel.

I would give The First Edition a pass, but keep an eye to see if these Bloomsbury Bookshop mysteries improve as the author forges ahead.

NOTE: I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
799 reviews8 followers
July 6, 2026
The First Edition is an Excellent story and start of a series about Cleo Marchment who inherited a house and Bookstore from her Aunt Vivienne and a cat Boswell. A lady is found dead and PC Walter Brennan comes to investigate. When Cleo goes back to the house she sees her Aunt Vivienne's Ghost. Cleo starts to look into the mystery with support from her Aunt. But what will be uncovered and can they discover the truth?

I enjoyed reading this story and recommend that you read. I look forward to reading the next book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
151 reviews4 followers
June 21, 2026
Wonderful afternoon read

Cleo goes home to Marchmont Cottage to attend her Aunt Vivian’s funeral and turn over the cottage to the new owners. Before she leaves to go to the bookstore her aunt left her, a not very well liked grande dame of the villages seemingly drops dead in the garden. Cleo does not believe it was an accident and sets out with her inherited kitty sidekick to solve the mystery. Great Fun!
458 reviews6 followers
July 5, 2026
This novella builds its story through Cleo Marchmont, her grief, and her search for answers after she inherits her aunt’s cottage and bookshop.

The novel gives the village, its people, and its history as much space as the investigation.

Imogen Penrose writes with control and precision.

The prose relies on observation rather than description.

Cleo notices the details that reveal people, places, and motives.

The ghost element supports the mystery instead of replacing it.

The investigation grows through conversations, relationships, and small discoveries.

The pace suits the story.

The plot asks the reader to follow the clues with Cleo instead of racing to the solution.

The ending resolves the central mystery.

The story leaves room for later books through the questions that surround the three names.

Some readers may want the investigation to move sooner.

Some readers may also want stronger answers to the wider history before the novel ends.

The novel succeeds because the characters carry the story from the first chapter to the last.

I recommend The First Edition to readers who enjoy British village mysteries, bookshops, family secrets, and stories that place people before puzzles.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
1,396 reviews267 followers
July 14, 2026
Cleo Marchmont travels to Sussex to clean out her great-aunt Vivienne’s cottage. She inherited the cottage along with a bookstore. Much to her surprise, there’s also a cat named Boswell that comes with the cottage, but that’s not the only surprise. Her great-aunt’s ghost is also hanging around waiting to talk to Cleo.

As Cleo gets to know the town and its citizens, she learns not everyone is well liked. In fact, one of the most disliked women in town is found dead at the bottom of her garden steps. The police initially think it’s an accident, but Cleo is convinced otherwise. Now, with the help of her kitty Boswell and ghostly aunt Vivienne, Cleo searches for a killer.

This is a short prequel and a quick read. I really liked all the characters involved. It will be interesting with a ghost involved. The story felt like a classic mystery and is an enjoyable read.

I’m really looking forward to seeing where this series goes. I love books set in bookstores and Cleo is on the way to restore her great aunt’s legacy. It should be fun.
Profile Image for Katy The Sleepy Reader.
410 reviews43 followers
August 14, 2026
I love a good cozy mystery. I cannot get enough of them. This was another great series beginner and I will definitely be reading more of this authors books.

This book centers around Cleo Marchmont. Her great-aunt Vivienne has passed away and Cleo has inherited her cottage in Firlesone and a nearby bookshop in Bloomsbury.

Cleo has decided that shes just going stay long enough clear out the cottage. Having not been there since she was a child. Once she arrives at the cottage, she discovers an aloof cat that appears to be more than just a cat.

Not long after her arrival, a local disliked woman is found dead in her yard. At first it looks like an accident, however, it beginning to look like its more like a murder.

This is a short story prequel to a series. It gives you an idea of the authors writing ability and the characters. I really liked this book, and I very much look forward to reading more. I received this book free from Booksirens for an honest review.
3,152 reviews23 followers
July 7, 2026
A cat, a cottage, and a ghost.

Cleo Marchmont arrives in Firlestone to clear her great aunt Vivienne's cottage and finds her great aunt's ghost and a tabby named Boswell. Shortly after her arrival she also finds the body of one of the town's residents who seems to be disliked by the entire population, so she also has a mystery to solve. With a limited amount of time available to her she needs to solve the woman's murder and pack up her aunt's cottage before continuing on her journey to her aunt's bookshop in Bloomsbury.
I like it. Quirky and well written characters in a prequel story to a cozy mystery series and I am looking forward to reading more books by this author. Short, quick mystery with interesting twists that I recommend to others.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary ARC provided by Book Sirens.
439 reviews3 followers
June 17, 2026
Thank you to BookSirens and to the author for the opportunity to read this novella.

Halfway through reading this novella, I wrote the following: I'm realizing that I don't much care for stories written in third person. I'm also realizing that I don't much care for stories written without emotion. These two facts lead me to the revelation that this book, although appearing at first to be "right up my alley," is not at all for me. That is not to say that it isn't well written, because it is, for certain, well written. It is, simply, not for me. Not a fit. But it might be a good fit, or even a great fit, for someone else.

And now, having finished the novella, I will say that my thoughts remain the same.
Profile Image for Bama  Girl.
131 reviews5 followers
July 23, 2026
The First Edition is a delightful cozy mystery. The author has a wonderful gift for crafting descriptions that are both whimsical and endearing, bringing every scene to life. Set in a charming English village, the story follows a young woman who travels there to settle her late aunt's affairs, only to find herself entangled in a murder investigation. Her most unexpected ally is the ghost of her aunt, whose presence adds just the right touch of humor and heart.

As a novella, The First Edition is a quick and satisfying read, but it never feels rushed. Instead, it effortlessly transports readers to the heart of the village, immersing them in its cozy atmosphere and memorable characters. I loved every minute of this charming mystery and look forward to reading more from this author.
2,378 reviews35 followers
June 23, 2026
There were a lot of things I liked about the book but I never got the feeling that there was a cohesive and solid plot. So many good ideas that seem to come out of nowhere and then go back to nowhere. There was so much more that could have been enriched. It was almost like the author was trying different ideas and then would go onto the next one. The fact that, almost sight unseen, the village constable deferred entirely to our heroine to solve the murder jarred. And the clues seem to come out of thin air rather than a series of “breadcrumbs” for her and the reader to follow. But as I said, there are some promising elements so I hope the next book is a bit tighter.
79 reviews
June 18, 2026
This book was a warm blanket and a hug. A cozy palate cleanser. My chief complaint is that I could have easily read another hundred pages, and it was only a novella. All-in-all, the writing was beautiful, and the author transported me from my couch to a cozy English village, and ultimately left me wanting to know more about all the residents.

I'll definitely be adding the Bloomsbury Bookshop Murders to my list.

I received an advance copy of The First Edition for free, and I'm leaving this review voluntarily. All thoughts, opinions, and mistakes are my own.
312 reviews
June 25, 2026
Cleo Marchmont inherited the Marchmont & Bell book shop, Boswell the cat & the Marchmont cottage from her aunt in Sussex. She had a week to clear the cottage before the new owners arrived. Her first night in town, Helena was found dead in the village…and the ghost of her Aunt Vivienne appeared at the cottage to help her figure out who killed Helena & why. This is the first book I’ve read by this author & I’m glad I got it. This is a nice prequel to The Bloomsbury Bookshop mystery series & I look forward to reading about Cleo, Boswell & Vivienne.
Profile Image for A J.
100 reviews
July 13, 2026
Cleo’s Aunt Vivienne has passed away, leaving her cottage and book shop in Sussex to Cleo. Shortly after she arrives, she finds a note from her aunt with cryptic instructions, along with a cat…..and a ghost.

This is very well written and a very sweet, quick read. Of course, I will forever be drawn into stories that feature a cat and I love that it seems we will be seeing this elusive tabby in future installments. I am curious to know if and how we will be seeing Aunt Vivienne in the future as well. I enjoyed these characters very much and am excited for the next installment.


Profile Image for Annarella.
14.3k reviews170 followers
August 18, 2026
This was a delightful surprise as I thoroughly enjoyed the story and loved the storytelling and the style of writing.
A short novella packing plenty of twists, observations, events. The murder of the most hated woman in a small village, a quirky ghost and a mysterious cats.
I felt it worked like a sort of flow of consciousness: we see thinks through Cleo's eyes, we are into her mind. It's not a sort of very-fast-paced story but it's a gripping one.
Highly recommended. Many thanks for this digital copy, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for Johanna.
6,542 reviews112 followers
June 25, 2026
'And in her bag are the keys to a struggling Bloomsbury bookshop she has not yet seen.
The First Edition is the standalone prequel novella to The Bloomsbury Bookshop Mysteries.'

The characters were very appealing and likeable and quirky and complicated. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building was solidly drawn and impressive. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.

Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
348 reviews5 followers
July 21, 2026
The First Edition is the prequel to Imogen Penrose's A Bloomsbury Bookshop Mystery series. While I enjoyed reading the book, I think it would have benefited from being a bit longer. The clues to solving the murder seemed to fall into Cleo's lap at the last minute. Granted, Cleo only has a short amount of time to clear out her great-aunt's home which comes with the deceased's belongings, a cat, and a ghost as well as solve a murder. Overall, I am looking forward to the first book in the series.
Profile Image for Jackie Welcel.
507 reviews6 followers
June 24, 2026
This book is a nice introduction to the characters and this series. I hope the rest of the books are available soon. I am anxious to see what happens to Cleo in this town with the help of Boswell. I nice little cozy mystery. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
148 reviews1 follower
June 28, 2026
A short novella which to be truthful although I quite enjoyed (I’m a huge fan of a cosy mystery) just didn’t quite hit the spot, for me it just felt like something was missing. It hasn’t put me off reading more from this author, and Murder at Marchmont and Bell is next on my list.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Profile Image for Maggie.
51 reviews14 followers
July 4, 2026
What a quick, sweet read. I am inpatient for the next installment. This story has a lot of promise for becomming a really good series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
63 reviews1 follower
July 6, 2026
. I initially downloaded it free because it was set near Lewes which is close to where I live. It is an interesting read by a new author to me but it showed enough promise to me to want to know more when Cleo moves to run a Bookshop in Bloomsbury.
36 reviews1 follower
July 20, 2026
A good start to a new series. I'd like to read more about the bookshop. And about the cats. The next story will be set at the bookshop, I suppose.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lorraine O'Connor.
342 reviews
June 30, 2026
Well told short story. Great methodical plot. Characters are believable and it is a nice twist to add Great Aunt Vivienne. More than earns 5*
Read on 06/26/26.
9 reviews1 follower
Read
July 28, 2026
One of those books that grabs you and keeps you reading. I fell in love with Cleo, Vivienne and, of course, Boswell.
Profile Image for Carolyn Evans.
965 reviews7 followers
August 12, 2026
This was a lovely little introduction to Cleo, Bosworth and Aunt Vivienne. The handling of the ghost, cat and sleuth trio was charming and unique, and the investigation was perfection.
Profile Image for Jimmy G. .
11 reviews
August 12, 2026
Nice story but...

At times it felt i was reading a bunch of ideas that would at some point, create a story.. They felt disconnected and just ramblings.
Profile Image for Kim.
41 reviews1 follower
August 17, 2026
This is a wonderful story that leads in to a series that I will definitely read. I love the setting and of course the characters. Looking forward to reading more.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews