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Once More, With Murder
It's 1959, and if a historic drought isn't bad enough, it turns out murder is terrible for tourism. All Detective Inspector Jack Penny wants to do with his summer is solve petty crimes and flirt with pretty tourists. Investigating twisted poisonings and confronting the specters of the past are not on his to-do list. Unfortunately, both arrive in the Cotswolds’ village of Buxton-on-the-Water on the same day… riding on the heels of Jack’s estranged wife.
Forensic expert Charlotte Buchanan lied. She said she wanted a country holiday to work on her next mystery novel, but in truth, she wants to say goodbye. Perhaps it’s ten years too late, but Charlotte is finally going to ask Jack Penny for a divorce. With a lifelong, incurable illness looming, she refuses to be a burden to him. She didn’t expect to be swept up in a murder investigation, and prolonged contact makes it difficult to keep her diagnosis a secret from the man she never stopped loving.
When the phantom poisoner strikes again, serving up another dramful of whiskey and two more bodies, Jack fights to put past traumas behind him to focus on his duty. Yet he is drawn to Charlotte like iron to a magnet, and as the pair strike sparks, Jack can’t help but be driven to dangerous distraction by the mystery of the woman he still desires.
Forensic expert Charlotte Buchanan lied. She said she wanted a country holiday to work on her next mystery novel, but in truth, she wants to say goodbye. Perhaps it’s ten years too late, but Charlotte is finally going to ask Jack Penny for a divorce. With a lifelong, incurable illness looming, she refuses to be a burden to him. She didn’t expect to be swept up in a murder investigation, and prolonged contact makes it difficult to keep her diagnosis a secret from the man she never stopped loving.
When the phantom poisoner strikes again, serving up another dramful of whiskey and two more bodies, Jack fights to put past traumas behind him to focus on his duty. Yet he is drawn to Charlotte like iron to a magnet, and as the pair strike sparks, Jack can’t help but be driven to dangerous distraction by the mystery of the woman he still desires.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 18, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
August 8, 2026
recieved ARC from Author
It's 1959 in a small town in the English countryside, and DI Jack Penny has made a life for himself that he likes well enough. He’s a respected policeman, a bit of a ladies' man, but when his wife interrupts his dinner after 10 years, Jack knows something's amiss. Charlotte Buchanan is a talented forensic expert, and her best friend and doctor, Fitz, arrive in the town Jack lives in seemingly to write Charlotte’s new book and ask Jack for a divorce. Charlotte’s plans quickly go sideways when her host is murdered, and the killer has tried to make it look accidental. Charlotte and Jack have to team up with their respective professional partners, Fitz and Aggie, as the killer becomes bolder and more bodies are discovered, and the connections between the dearly departed are seemingly tenuous. It’s a will-they-won’t-they love story from an unusual angle with a good side of crime procedural.
It's 1959 in a small town in the English countryside, and DI Jack Penny has made a life for himself that he likes well enough. He’s a respected policeman, a bit of a ladies' man, but when his wife interrupts his dinner after 10 years, Jack knows something's amiss. Charlotte Buchanan is a talented forensic expert, and her best friend and doctor, Fitz, arrive in the town Jack lives in seemingly to write Charlotte’s new book and ask Jack for a divorce. Charlotte’s plans quickly go sideways when her host is murdered, and the killer has tried to make it look accidental. Charlotte and Jack have to team up with their respective professional partners, Fitz and Aggie, as the killer becomes bolder and more bodies are discovered, and the connections between the dearly departed are seemingly tenuous. It’s a will-they-won’t-they love story from an unusual angle with a good side of crime procedural.
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August 29, 2026This book. THIS BOOK. Alright, let’s back up.
I’m not a huge fan of “historical”. I much prefer my books set in the present. But this book was so easy to get into that I forgot it was set in 1959! Anyway. On to the story.
Jack has baggage, that much is clearly evident, but so does Charlotte. Their shared past has so much love—and honestly, pain—in it, and I was rooting for them from the first scene they shared. (Which, let’s be honest, was a hoot. Seriously. Love the subtle smackdown, Charlotte.)
Besides Charlotte and Jack in the lead, we have Dr. Magdalene Fitzpatrick as a very close background character, who does her darnedest to make sure Charlotte takes care of herself WHILE they all solve the mystery. (Charlotte doesn’t make it easy, but Fitz loves her anyway.)
It’s clear that there was an enormous effort put into research for Jack, Charlotte, and the murder, and the author handles everything so tactfully. The sharpness of forensic sciences is softened by the emotion within the characters—and not just the lead ones. No, even the background characters have their own little arcs inside the overarching world.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to reread this clever whodunit.
I’m not a huge fan of “historical”. I much prefer my books set in the present. But this book was so easy to get into that I forgot it was set in 1959! Anyway. On to the story.
Jack has baggage, that much is clearly evident, but so does Charlotte. Their shared past has so much love—and honestly, pain—in it, and I was rooting for them from the first scene they shared. (Which, let’s be honest, was a hoot. Seriously. Love the subtle smackdown, Charlotte.)
Besides Charlotte and Jack in the lead, we have Dr. Magdalene Fitzpatrick as a very close background character, who does her darnedest to make sure Charlotte takes care of herself WHILE they all solve the mystery. (Charlotte doesn’t make it easy, but Fitz loves her anyway.)
It’s clear that there was an enormous effort put into research for Jack, Charlotte, and the murder, and the author handles everything so tactfully. The sharpness of forensic sciences is softened by the emotion within the characters—and not just the lead ones. No, even the background characters have their own little arcs inside the overarching world.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to reread this clever whodunit.
August 18, 2026
Old school murder mystery
When local detective Jack is called to investigate a murder in his small town, the last thing he expects is to work with his estranged wife and forensic expert Charlotte.
After ten years apart Charlie has come to ask for a divorce she doesn’t want. But a spate of unusual poisonings ensures she stays around longer than she intended - which makes it harder to hide her illness from the man she has never stopped loving.
Now Jack and Charlie must put their past to the side and work together to find the town’s secret poisoner - before it is too late.
What a great debut. I loved the murder mystery aspect of this book. Setting it in 1950s Britain was a great choice - it adds the post war dynamic and forces the characters to rely on traditional detective work. It also brought a number of social expectations into play.
Charlie and Jack’s reunion is a slow burn romance. They still love each other but it takes some time for them to admit it. The book has no open door spice but does have a focus on extramarital affairs.
This story deals with a country still deeply traumatised after WW2. Different methods of poisoning are described in detail. Jack has a prosthetic arm and Charlie is dealing with a recent diagnosis of a lifelong illness.
Fans of murder mysteries and second chance romances will absolutely not regret adding Once More, With Murder to their list.
When local detective Jack is called to investigate a murder in his small town, the last thing he expects is to work with his estranged wife and forensic expert Charlotte.
After ten years apart Charlie has come to ask for a divorce she doesn’t want. But a spate of unusual poisonings ensures she stays around longer than she intended - which makes it harder to hide her illness from the man she has never stopped loving.
Now Jack and Charlie must put their past to the side and work together to find the town’s secret poisoner - before it is too late.
What a great debut. I loved the murder mystery aspect of this book. Setting it in 1950s Britain was a great choice - it adds the post war dynamic and forces the characters to rely on traditional detective work. It also brought a number of social expectations into play.
Charlie and Jack’s reunion is a slow burn romance. They still love each other but it takes some time for them to admit it. The book has no open door spice but does have a focus on extramarital affairs.
This story deals with a country still deeply traumatised after WW2. Different methods of poisoning are described in detail. Jack has a prosthetic arm and Charlie is dealing with a recent diagnosis of a lifelong illness.
Fans of murder mysteries and second chance romances will absolutely not regret adding Once More, With Murder to their list.
August 30, 2026
3.75 🌟
Thank you to the author Katherine McRea for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
I have to admit that reading this was a bit surreal. I read a lot of historical romance/fiction, but generally from pre-1900s. So while I was reading, I kept finding myself surprised when they were driving a car or using a telephone or other things that were around in 1950. (It felt similar to when I first read Crescent City... it was my first Urban Fantasy and it was the strangest feeling to align cellphones and clubs with fantasy).
This cozy historical "romystery" was a quick and fun read. It's a second-chance romance between two MCs who are married but estranged. Jack is a detective that used to work in London, but transferred to his hometown in the country when his marriage to Charlotte fell apart. Dealing with what would now be diagnosed as PTSD from the war, he was trying to get past his demons and wanted a slower pace of life. Not many exciting things happen in this country locale, but suddenly there's a murder. And who just happens to be in the area? His estranged wife of 10 years.
Charlotte and Jack are very much an adult couple, and it was refreshing to read about a couple who wasn't playing silly games or still learning who and what they want to be. Both are confident with who they are and can recognize that their marriage just didn't work despite their mutual love. They find their way back to each other throughout the investigation (she is a forensic expert and author). I love how Jack treats Charlotte as being her own entity, not a piece of property that he owns. I love MMCs who are man enough to not treat their women like property, especially in historical fiction.
The side characters were endearing and I'm looking forward to learning more about Fitz and Aggie in the second book. It's clear they have some moon eyes for each other and I want to see how it plays out. I'm also hoping that Archie makes an appearance in book two. He was an endearing kid and I hope that we see Jack take him under his wing.
I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction, romance and cozy mysteries. This book is a blend of all 3 and I think the author balanced all aspects well.
Thank you to the author Katherine McRea for the eARC. All opinions are my own.
I have to admit that reading this was a bit surreal. I read a lot of historical romance/fiction, but generally from pre-1900s. So while I was reading, I kept finding myself surprised when they were driving a car or using a telephone or other things that were around in 1950. (It felt similar to when I first read Crescent City... it was my first Urban Fantasy and it was the strangest feeling to align cellphones and clubs with fantasy).
This cozy historical "romystery" was a quick and fun read. It's a second-chance romance between two MCs who are married but estranged. Jack is a detective that used to work in London, but transferred to his hometown in the country when his marriage to Charlotte fell apart. Dealing with what would now be diagnosed as PTSD from the war, he was trying to get past his demons and wanted a slower pace of life. Not many exciting things happen in this country locale, but suddenly there's a murder. And who just happens to be in the area? His estranged wife of 10 years.
Charlotte and Jack are very much an adult couple, and it was refreshing to read about a couple who wasn't playing silly games or still learning who and what they want to be. Both are confident with who they are and can recognize that their marriage just didn't work despite their mutual love. They find their way back to each other throughout the investigation (she is a forensic expert and author). I love how Jack treats Charlotte as being her own entity, not a piece of property that he owns. I love MMCs who are man enough to not treat their women like property, especially in historical fiction.
The side characters were endearing and I'm looking forward to learning more about Fitz and Aggie in the second book. It's clear they have some moon eyes for each other and I want to see how it plays out. I'm also hoping that Archie makes an appearance in book two. He was an endearing kid and I hope that we see Jack take him under his wing.
I definitely recommend this to anyone who loves historical fiction, romance and cozy mysteries. This book is a blend of all 3 and I think the author balanced all aspects well.
August 21, 2026
Katherine McRea delivers a mystery that remembers forensic work isn’t glamorous — it’s meticulous, tense, and occasionally full of people who think they’re smarter than they are. Once More, With Murder blends sharp investigation with character chemistry that crackles just enough to keep the pages turning.
The forensic femmes are the standout here. Their dynamic is clever, competitive, and refreshingly human. McRea writes them with a confidence that makes every exchange feel intentional — no wasted dialogue, no forced drama. The murder itself is layered and satisfying, but the real strength of the book is how the characters navigate each other while pretending they’re not affected.
The pacing stays tight, the humor lands without derailing the tension, and the emotional beats feel earned rather than exaggerated. It’s a mystery that respects the reader’s intelligence and still manages to surprise.
Five stars for a romystery that balances sharp wit, forensic intrigue, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
The forensic femmes are the standout here. Their dynamic is clever, competitive, and refreshingly human. McRea writes them with a confidence that makes every exchange feel intentional — no wasted dialogue, no forced drama. The murder itself is layered and satisfying, but the real strength of the book is how the characters navigate each other while pretending they’re not affected.
The pacing stays tight, the humor lands without derailing the tension, and the emotional beats feel earned rather than exaggerated. It’s a mystery that respects the reader’s intelligence and still manages to surprise.
Five stars for a romystery that balances sharp wit, forensic intrigue, and just enough chaos to keep things interesting.
August 28, 2026
Review of advanced copy received from author.
A solid and sweet cozy mystery set in the Cotswolds. I particularly liked that the book dealt with heavy real-life stresses (PTSD, chronic illness, sexism, etc) in a way that felt natural and not preachy. Instead, it felt like how life is - that we have to still function while carrying invisible loads most people do not see or want to see. These tribulations were a simple reality that fleshed out the characters, rather than a labored plot device.
I also enjoy that the chapter titles had me consulting the dictionary a couple times for some Latin terms I was unfamiliar with. Gotta love a book that expands my vocabulary!
A solid and sweet cozy mystery set in the Cotswolds. I particularly liked that the book dealt with heavy real-life stresses (PTSD, chronic illness, sexism, etc) in a way that felt natural and not preachy. Instead, it felt like how life is - that we have to still function while carrying invisible loads most people do not see or want to see. These tribulations were a simple reality that fleshed out the characters, rather than a labored plot device.
I also enjoy that the chapter titles had me consulting the dictionary a couple times for some Latin terms I was unfamiliar with. Gotta love a book that expands my vocabulary!
August 18, 2026
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest opinion.
This was a really enjoyable read! First time reading a romystery. I will definitely be looking for more.
I love the setting, the characters, and the tension in trying to solve the murders. I would’ve loved more build up on the romance side. It felt a bit rushed to me.
It was a little bit predictable but I am also neurodivergent and have strong pattern recognition.
All in all, I would definitely recommend reading this one and will also be suggesting that the store I work for carry it.
4.25 stars.
This was a really enjoyable read! First time reading a romystery. I will definitely be looking for more.
I love the setting, the characters, and the tension in trying to solve the murders. I would’ve loved more build up on the romance side. It felt a bit rushed to me.
It was a little bit predictable but I am also neurodivergent and have strong pattern recognition.
All in all, I would definitely recommend reading this one and will also be suggesting that the store I work for carry it.
4.25 stars.
August 19, 2026
I received an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. I really enjoyed this mystery with a little romance thrown in! The main character is a detective who was injured in WW1. He escaped to his home town in the countryside when his wife left him after a few years upon returning traumatized from the war. This was reminiscent of the Charles Todd mysteries with Detective Rutledge, although with a lighter tone. Will try to read more of this author soon!
August 25, 2026
I had an ARC copy by the author.
I’m not usually one for mysteries nor romances, but the chronic illness rep picked my interest. It’s really a nice summer read, full with lovable and diverse characters and with a realistic, non-ableist and non-pitiful narration of chronic illness. I recommend it to everyone who likes engaging mysteries with a character-driven plot.
I’m not usually one for mysteries nor romances, but the chronic illness rep picked my interest. It’s really a nice summer read, full with lovable and diverse characters and with a realistic, non-ableist and non-pitiful narration of chronic illness. I recommend it to everyone who likes engaging mysteries with a character-driven plot.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Set in the English countryside in 1959, Once More, With Murder is a historical murder mystery with a lovely mix of suspense, emotion, and romance.
What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere. The small-town setting and the 1950s details made the story feel like a classic mystery, and I really enjoyed being taken into that world.
The murder investigation kept me curious throughout. There are secrets, unanswered questions, and different sides to the people involved, which made me want to keep reading and figure things out along with the investigation.
I also loved that the story isn't only about solving a murder. The characters have their own personal struggles and relationships, which give the story more emotion and depth. The balance between the mystery and the personal side of the story worked really well for me.
The book also touches on love, betrayal, grief, secrecy, and justice, giving the story more than just a murder to solve.
Overall, this was an atmospheric, emotional, and engaging mystery that kept me interested from beginning to end. If you enjoy historical murder mysteries with a touch of romance, strong characters, and a cozy small-town setting, I definitely recommend this one. 🤎
What I enjoyed most was the atmosphere. The small-town setting and the 1950s details made the story feel like a classic mystery, and I really enjoyed being taken into that world.
The murder investigation kept me curious throughout. There are secrets, unanswered questions, and different sides to the people involved, which made me want to keep reading and figure things out along with the investigation.
I also loved that the story isn't only about solving a murder. The characters have their own personal struggles and relationships, which give the story more emotion and depth. The balance between the mystery and the personal side of the story worked really well for me.
The book also touches on love, betrayal, grief, secrecy, and justice, giving the story more than just a murder to solve.
Overall, this was an atmospheric, emotional, and engaging mystery that kept me interested from beginning to end. If you enjoy historical murder mysteries with a touch of romance, strong characters, and a cozy small-town setting, I definitely recommend this one. 🤎
September 7, 2026
4.5 stars
Thank you to Katherine McRae for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved it so much that I when I was halfway through, I also pre-ordered a copy for my partner’s kindle.
I came for the chronic illness representation and now I eagerly await the next mystery (and romance). I found the small town in the English countryside charming and enjoyed the interactions between Charlotte and Jack, Charlotte and Dr. Fitz, and the fatherly relationship between Jack and Mr. Prince, the baker. I wish I had more of Fitz and Aggie interacting on page, but honestly the little bit I got just makes me want their book even more.
Charlie absolutely broke my heart at times, with her insistence on independence and not making Jack take care of her as her illness progresses. It can be so hard to let the people who love us be there when we are sad and hurt and feeling betrayed by our own body no longer doing as it is bid to do. You really understand why a couple that loves each other as much as Jack and Charlie do split up but you are cheering for them to get their second chance together.
Thank you to Katherine McRae for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I loved it so much that I when I was halfway through, I also pre-ordered a copy for my partner’s kindle.
I came for the chronic illness representation and now I eagerly await the next mystery (and romance). I found the small town in the English countryside charming and enjoyed the interactions between Charlotte and Jack, Charlotte and Dr. Fitz, and the fatherly relationship between Jack and Mr. Prince, the baker. I wish I had more of Fitz and Aggie interacting on page, but honestly the little bit I got just makes me want their book even more.
Charlie absolutely broke my heart at times, with her insistence on independence and not making Jack take care of her as her illness progresses. It can be so hard to let the people who love us be there when we are sad and hurt and feeling betrayed by our own body no longer doing as it is bid to do. You really understand why a couple that loves each other as much as Jack and Charlie do split up but you are cheering for them to get their second chance together.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I really enjoyed the atmosphere of Once More, With Murder! Set in the English countryside in 1959, this historical murder mystery had such a cozy, classic mystery feel that completely pulled me into the story.
The small-town setting and all the 1950s details really brought everything to life, and I loved slowly uncovering the secrets surrounding the murder. There were plenty of unanswered questions and suspicious characters that kept me guessing and wanting to see where the investigation would lead.
What I especially liked was that the story wasn't solely focused on the murder. The characters had their own struggles, relationships, and secrets, which added an emotional layer to the mystery. There are themes of love, betrayal, grief, secrecy, and justice woven throughout, giving the story more depth.
Overall, this was an atmospheric and engaging mystery with a lovely touch of romance. If you enjoy historical mysteries, small-town settings, and plenty of secrets to uncover, this one is definitely worth picking up!
The small-town setting and all the 1950s details really brought everything to life, and I loved slowly uncovering the secrets surrounding the murder. There were plenty of unanswered questions and suspicious characters that kept me guessing and wanting to see where the investigation would lead.
What I especially liked was that the story wasn't solely focused on the murder. The characters had their own struggles, relationships, and secrets, which added an emotional layer to the mystery. There are themes of love, betrayal, grief, secrecy, and justice woven throughout, giving the story more depth.
Overall, this was an atmospheric and engaging mystery with a lovely touch of romance. If you enjoy historical mysteries, small-town settings, and plenty of secrets to uncover, this one is definitely worth picking up!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Jack, the detective inspector of a small town, has his flabbers fully gasted when his estranged wife, Charlotte, shows up after ten years to interrupt his dinner at the local pub. Too shocked to do anything but flee, he manages to avoid her until a murder throws them together.
This book is super cute and well-written. I loved that both characters, while fully competent and adept at their jobs and lives, get completely flustered when they’re together, still in love after all these years—though they try to hide it from each other. Fitz, Charlotte’s friend, sees right through both of them and is quietly judging on the sidelines, which had me giggling a lot.
One of the major parts I loved was the communication between them. They discussed their separation and the feelings around it and slowly learned to trust each other again. McRea writes really compelling dialogue and mature characters.
I also enjoyed how the mystery was put together. We've got all kinds of motives and suspects, and every one of them is equally believable.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny, and emotional romance story with a brilliant murder mystery to boot! This is definitely going on my Comfort Read list.
This book is super cute and well-written. I loved that both characters, while fully competent and adept at their jobs and lives, get completely flustered when they’re together, still in love after all these years—though they try to hide it from each other. Fitz, Charlotte’s friend, sees right through both of them and is quietly judging on the sidelines, which had me giggling a lot.
One of the major parts I loved was the communication between them. They discussed their separation and the feelings around it and slowly learned to trust each other again. McRea writes really compelling dialogue and mature characters.
I also enjoyed how the mystery was put together. We've got all kinds of motives and suspects, and every one of them is equally believable.
Overall, this was a sweet, funny, and emotional romance story with a brilliant murder mystery to boot! This is definitely going on my Comfort Read list.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I wanted lots of mystery and introgue with a touch of love and hope, and Katherine delivered here.
Charlotte, accompanied by her best friend, Dr.Fitz, travel to the small town where her estranged husband, Frank, has worked as a detective for the last 10 years since she left him. Intending to ask for an official divorce. She had a big reason, one that she is currently keeping a secret to all but Fitz.
Upon their meeting, old emotions stir, but they are interrupted by multiple murders back to back. Charlotte and Fitz, both experienced with investigations for different reasons, assist in attempting to solve whats happening in the small tourist town.
I had so much fun solving the mystery with them.
Thank you, Katherine, for the exciting adventure(and the knowledge I now have that I did not have before).
Charlotte, accompanied by her best friend, Dr.Fitz, travel to the small town where her estranged husband, Frank, has worked as a detective for the last 10 years since she left him. Intending to ask for an official divorce. She had a big reason, one that she is currently keeping a secret to all but Fitz.
Upon their meeting, old emotions stir, but they are interrupted by multiple murders back to back. Charlotte and Fitz, both experienced with investigations for different reasons, assist in attempting to solve whats happening in the small tourist town.
I had so much fun solving the mystery with them.
Thank you, Katherine, for the exciting adventure(and the knowledge I now have that I did not have before).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for allowing me an ARC copy of this book!
This was a very cute, cozy mystery. I'm going to try to give my review with as few spoilers as possible.
At a general level, I enjoyed the overall plot. It definitely had similar vibes to an Agatha Christie style murder mystery. I really enjoyed that the character Charlotte is an author who also enjoys studying forensics (which felt like a lovely nod to Agatha Christie).
I mostly wanted to read this book for the disability rep. I found Charlotte's journey adapting to a recent medical diagnosis to be incredibly relatable. I really enjoyed seeing her symptoms discussed during the plot and seeing how they affected her daily life. As a fellow disabled person, I found her incredibly relatable!
I wasn't all that interested in the detective Jack Penny, who felt a bit too generic. But I did really like that he has a prosthetic hand that is referenced multiple times during the story. It's not a plot point or anything, just a part of his life.
Some mild possible spoilers to follow:
I'll admit, I was a bit disappointed that Charlotte and Fitz are not a couple. But I really loved their friendship and it reminded me a lot of me and my best friend.
I did find the actual mystery plot to be a bit predictable. I'm not usually able to solve the mystery in books like this. But I did actually call this one.
All in all, this was a really nice cozy read. I enjoyed the characters overall, and there were enough twists in the plot to make the story interesting.
This was a very cute, cozy mystery. I'm going to try to give my review with as few spoilers as possible.
At a general level, I enjoyed the overall plot. It definitely had similar vibes to an Agatha Christie style murder mystery. I really enjoyed that the character Charlotte is an author who also enjoys studying forensics (which felt like a lovely nod to Agatha Christie).
I mostly wanted to read this book for the disability rep. I found Charlotte's journey adapting to a recent medical diagnosis to be incredibly relatable. I really enjoyed seeing her symptoms discussed during the plot and seeing how they affected her daily life. As a fellow disabled person, I found her incredibly relatable!
I wasn't all that interested in the detective Jack Penny, who felt a bit too generic. But I did really like that he has a prosthetic hand that is referenced multiple times during the story. It's not a plot point or anything, just a part of his life.
Some mild possible spoilers to follow:
I'll admit, I was a bit disappointed that Charlotte and Fitz are not a couple. But I really loved their friendship and it reminded me a lot of me and my best friend.
I did find the actual mystery plot to be a bit predictable. I'm not usually able to solve the mystery in books like this. But I did actually call this one.
All in all, this was a really nice cozy read. I enjoyed the characters overall, and there were enough twists in the plot to make the story interesting.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was lucky enough to have an early chance to read this book, and can confidently say I haven't stopped thinking about it since! The characters are a brilliant mix of fun, unique and endearing, and the mystery at the heart of it all was very compelling.
By far my favorite part was the romance between the main characters, Charlotte and Jack. After their marriage turns to an estrangement, they're thrown back together to investigate a murder. Even after so much time apart, it's so clear they still love each other and the communication between the two was absolutely glorious.
If you're looking for a mix of cozy vibes, compelling mystery, and sweet romance, this is the book for you!
By far my favorite part was the romance between the main characters, Charlotte and Jack. After their marriage turns to an estrangement, they're thrown back together to investigate a murder. Even after so much time apart, it's so clear they still love each other and the communication between the two was absolutely glorious.
If you're looking for a mix of cozy vibes, compelling mystery, and sweet romance, this is the book for you!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a cozy book that you can't stop reading.
Kathrine McRea has created a puzzle detective that makes your mind wander to Father Brown and Midsomer Murders.
It takes place in the English countryside where you get to follow the development and process of the different characters in the mystery.
I found myself giving the different characters their own voices and dialects in my head after how the author wrote the dialogues.
I hope there will be more books where we get to continue following the characters as they solve new cases.
Det här är mysboken som man inte kan sluta läsa. Kathrine McRea har skapat en pusseldeckare som får tankarna att vandra till Father Brown och Midsomer Murders.
Den utspelar sig på den engelska landsbygden där man får följa de olika karaktärernas utveckling och process i mysteriet.
Jag kom på mig själv med att ge de olika karaktärerna egna röster och dialekter i mitt huvud efter hur författaren skrev dialogerna.
Jag hoppas att det kommer flera böcker där vi får fortsätta följa karaktärerna när de löser nya fall.
This is a cozy book that you can't stop reading.
Kathrine McRea has created a puzzle detective that makes your mind wander to Father Brown and Midsomer Murders.
It takes place in the English countryside where you get to follow the development and process of the different characters in the mystery.
I found myself giving the different characters their own voices and dialects in my head after how the author wrote the dialogues.
I hope there will be more books where we get to continue following the characters as they solve new cases.
Det här är mysboken som man inte kan sluta läsa. Kathrine McRea har skapat en pusseldeckare som får tankarna att vandra till Father Brown och Midsomer Murders.
Den utspelar sig på den engelska landsbygden där man får följa de olika karaktärernas utveckling och process i mysteriet.
Jag kom på mig själv med att ge de olika karaktärerna egna röster och dialekter i mitt huvud efter hur författaren skrev dialogerna.
Jag hoppas att det kommer flera böcker där vi får fortsätta följa karaktärerna när de löser nya fall.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Cozy murder investigation in 1959 small-town England? I'm already sold. And THEN you add in a second-chance romance between a detective and his estranged wife, crime novelist and forensic specialist?
UMMM YES PLEASE!!
McRea hits every beat with this one. This is a cozy read, but the narrative tension stays high between the investigation and the romance so I was never bored. I loved that this was a historical novel set in a time period that isn't written about as much (late 1950s England). I highly recommend giving this charming debut a read! I will be purchasing the paperback as soon as I can!
UMMM YES PLEASE!!
McRea hits every beat with this one. This is a cozy read, but the narrative tension stays high between the investigation and the romance so I was never bored. I loved that this was a historical novel set in a time period that isn't written about as much (late 1950s England). I highly recommend giving this charming debut a read! I will be purchasing the paperback as soon as I can!
August 20, 2026
What truly sets this book apart is how seamlessly it balances sharp procedural details with genuine emotional weight. Charlotte’s secret diagnosis brings incredible depth and vulnerability to her character. Her physical fatigue, uncertainty, and emotional struggles feel deeply relatable and are handled with immense care.
Jack and Charlotte’s relationship completely steals the show. His steady, unconditional loyalty gives the "in sickness and in health" trope a powerful emotional core that will make your heart melt. Combined with a clever plant-based clue trail, snappy dialogue, and an atmospheric 1950s backdrop, this is an absolute must-read for whodunit and romance fans alike!
Jack and Charlotte’s relationship completely steals the show. His steady, unconditional loyalty gives the "in sickness and in health" trope a powerful emotional core that will make your heart melt. Combined with a clever plant-based clue trail, snappy dialogue, and an atmospheric 1950s backdrop, this is an absolute must-read for whodunit and romance fans alike!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 25, 2026
I received this book as an ARC, thank you to the author! This was a really enjoyable read.
Detective inspector Jack finds himself thrown into a murder mystery with a surprise appearance from his estranged wife, the well known thriller writer Charlotte, who doesn't seem to be acting like herself. They get to investigate the murder(s) together, and their long abandoned relationship seems to be growing from the embers...
There's good chronic illness and disability rep, the romance is sweet, and the queer side characters just left me wanting more. Charlotte and Jack, and their relationship, are more of the focus than the mystery, which I would put firmly in the cozy category.
Detective inspector Jack finds himself thrown into a murder mystery with a surprise appearance from his estranged wife, the well known thriller writer Charlotte, who doesn't seem to be acting like herself. They get to investigate the murder(s) together, and their long abandoned relationship seems to be growing from the embers...
There's good chronic illness and disability rep, the romance is sweet, and the queer side characters just left me wanting more. Charlotte and Jack, and their relationship, are more of the focus than the mystery, which I would put firmly in the cozy category.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Such cozy vibes! If you're looking for smart romance, exciting mystery, and beautifully wholesome yet complex characters, look no further. Just thinking about it I feel all snuggled into my couch with a cup of tea and a blanket.
Seriously though, Katherine's writing is such a pleasure to read. Intelligent, well thought-out and emotionally engaging. Jack and Charlotte's story is one of those that makes me believe the world can be a pretty great place (which is doubly impressive, given the title contains the word murder).
Seriously though, Katherine's writing is such a pleasure to read. Intelligent, well thought-out and emotionally engaging. Jack and Charlotte's story is one of those that makes me believe the world can be a pretty great place (which is doubly impressive, given the title contains the word murder).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness I had such a fun time reading this. It had an amazing blend of humour, mystery and of course romance. Also kickass women being kickass women (which I love).
The setting was also fantastic - and the whole atmosphere felt so real and fleshed out. Jack is a detected inspector in a small town, and then one day his estranged wife, Charlotte, shows up and completely throws him. They end up working together on a case and mystery and a suitable number of twists and turns follow.
The characters were great and I also loved the side characters.
The setting was also fantastic - and the whole atmosphere felt so real and fleshed out. Jack is a detected inspector in a small town, and then one day his estranged wife, Charlotte, shows up and completely throws him. They end up working together on a case and mystery and a suitable number of twists and turns follow.
The characters were great and I also loved the side characters.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
*received an advance copy from author*
Once More, With Murder is an engaging cozy mystery with an intriguing plot and memorable characters. The peaceful village setting adds charm while hiding plenty of secrets. Detective Inspector Jack Penny is a smart and relatable protagonist who keeps the investigation interesting. The suspense builds steadily, leading to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, it is an enjoyable read for fans of classic British murder mysteries.
Once More, With Murder is an engaging cozy mystery with an intriguing plot and memorable characters. The peaceful village setting adds charm while hiding plenty of secrets. Detective Inspector Jack Penny is a smart and relatable protagonist who keeps the investigation interesting. The suspense builds steadily, leading to a satisfying conclusion. Overall, it is an enjoyable read for fans of classic British murder mysteries.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm thankful to have received an ARC from the author which gave me the opportunity to read an enjoyable book I would not have ordinarily read.
This book really has a lot of things going for it:
✨ The writing and editing are absolutely impeccable.
✨ The story is well thought out, engaging, and a fun little mystery—even if it is a bit predictable (which isn't necessarily a bad thing AT ALL).
✨ Despite heavy topics like murder, cheating, and personal challenges like chronic illness, trauma, and injury, the author managed to keep things quite cozy.
✨ The author does a great job of making her characters relatable.
👎 The romance between the MCs seemed a bit lackluster. FULL DISCLOSURE: That could very well be a "me" thing, as M/F romance is not generally what I prefer, so I'm unwilling to judge the book negatively for it.
👎 I would have liked the male MC to have a slightly stronger personality. It could just be that I failed to resonate with him, but the female characters felt much stronger.
✨ And this might seem silly, but as someone who generally avoids M/F because of the common tropes that make me feel icky, the author managed to avoid every single one of them! ✨
If you like atmospheric, historical, small-town murder mysteries with a focus on the mystery and a dash of romance, enjoy much-needed chronic illness representation, and want a cozy vibe, I'd absolutely recommend giving this book a shot.
This book really has a lot of things going for it:
✨ The writing and editing are absolutely impeccable.
✨ The story is well thought out, engaging, and a fun little mystery—even if it is a bit predictable (which isn't necessarily a bad thing AT ALL).
✨ Despite heavy topics like murder, cheating, and personal challenges like chronic illness, trauma, and injury, the author managed to keep things quite cozy.
✨ The author does a great job of making her characters relatable.
👎 The romance between the MCs seemed a bit lackluster. FULL DISCLOSURE: That could very well be a "me" thing, as M/F romance is not generally what I prefer, so I'm unwilling to judge the book negatively for it.
👎 I would have liked the male MC to have a slightly stronger personality. It could just be that I failed to resonate with him, but the female characters felt much stronger.
✨ And this might seem silly, but as someone who generally avoids M/F because of the common tropes that make me feel icky, the author managed to avoid every single one of them! ✨
If you like atmospheric, historical, small-town murder mysteries with a focus on the mystery and a dash of romance, enjoy much-needed chronic illness representation, and want a cozy vibe, I'd absolutely recommend giving this book a shot.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Once More, With Murder is a delightful little trip through the English cotswolds, complete with romance, mystery, and even some queer representation. This is a fun, easy read with great banter between characters and an engaging setting. If you're worried about picking up a romance book- don't be. The romance aspects are sweet without overtaking the plot. I had trouble putting this book down!
August 21, 2026
3.75⭐
I received an arc copy from the author.
First impressions: "what in the American stereotype of England is this bullshit?" All jolly ho and everyone wearing tweed and bowler hats.
Did actually come to enjoy it. I liked that the two prominent female characters as leaders in their fields and the way the evidence unfolded to eventually find the killer was top notch.
I received an arc copy from the author.
First impressions: "what in the American stereotype of England is this bullshit?" All jolly ho and everyone wearing tweed and bowler hats.
Did actually come to enjoy it. I liked that the two prominent female characters as leaders in their fields and the way the evidence unfolded to eventually find the killer was top notch.
Review of advance copy received from Author
It’s like someone brought Agatha Christie back to life and asked her to write one more book! This has the feel of a classic whodunnit seamlessly blended with a second-chance love story. The chronic illness representation is beautifully and realistically portrayed. Excellently done.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received a copy from the author.
A great debut novel with echoes from Agatha Christie's mysteries. Perfect for fans of cozy murder mysteries set in the English countryside. I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more about this series in the future.
A great debut novel with echoes from Agatha Christie's mysteries. Perfect for fans of cozy murder mysteries set in the English countryside. I really enjoyed this book and hope to read more about this series in the future.
August 18, 2026
I loved this book and it was very well written.
September 23, 2026
Summer reading
Once More, With Murder was a perfect book for relaxing after a busy day.
Nice to read a book that has a happy ending for the 3 main characters.
Once More, With Murder was a perfect book for relaxing after a busy day.
Nice to read a book that has a happy ending for the 3 main characters.
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