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Casting Call 4 Murder
When a theater group’s murder mystery weekend turns deadly, the seniors of Sun City West take on a starring role in catching the killer . . .
The book club ladies of Sun City West love nothing more than poking their noses into murder investigations, so it’s the treat of a lifetime when they get to attend a murder mystery weekend at a sprawling Victorian mansion. They’ll be matching wits with other mystery aficionados trying to figure out whodunnit, and Sophie “Phee” Kimball is thrilled that for once her mother’s friends won’t be meddling in a real homicide. As the plot unfolds it’s mysterious fun for the actors and audience alike, until the dead body they discover is all too real.
Confident they can solve what’s turned into a real-life murder, the book club ladies hatch a plan and rope Phee into helping them. But as they step into their roles as amateur sleuths, what seems like play-acting is deadly serious to the killer. Soon Phee and the seniors want to rewrite the ending, because the murderer in their midst is dead-set on bringing the curtain down on all of them . . .
Praise for the Books of J. C.
“Fun characters, a touch of humor, and a great mystery, the perfect combination for a cozy.” —Lena Gregory, author of the All Day Breakfast Café Mysteries on Ditched 4 Murder
“So cleverly written, you won’t guess the perpetrators until the very end.” —Mary Marks, award-winning author of the Quilting Mystery Series on Booked 4 Murder
“A thoroughly entertaining series debut, with enjoyable yet realistic characters and enough plot twists—and dead ends—to appeal from beginning to end.” —Booklist, starred review, on Booked 4 Murder
“Enjoy this laugh-out-loud funny mystery that will make you scream for the authors to get busy on the next one.” —Suspense Magazine on Molded 4 Murder
About the
J. C. Eaton is the pen name of husband-and-wife writing team Ann I. Goldfarb and the late James E. Clapp. They are the authors of the Wine Trail Mysteries, the Sophie Kimball Mysteries, the Marcie Rayner Mysteries, and the Charcuterie Shop Mysteries. In addition, Ann has published nine YA time travel mysteries under her own name. You can learn more about them at jceatonmysteries.com, jceatonauthor.com, facebook.com/JCEatonauthor, and timetravelmysteries.com.
The book club ladies of Sun City West love nothing more than poking their noses into murder investigations, so it’s the treat of a lifetime when they get to attend a murder mystery weekend at a sprawling Victorian mansion. They’ll be matching wits with other mystery aficionados trying to figure out whodunnit, and Sophie “Phee” Kimball is thrilled that for once her mother’s friends won’t be meddling in a real homicide. As the plot unfolds it’s mysterious fun for the actors and audience alike, until the dead body they discover is all too real.
Confident they can solve what’s turned into a real-life murder, the book club ladies hatch a plan and rope Phee into helping them. But as they step into their roles as amateur sleuths, what seems like play-acting is deadly serious to the killer. Soon Phee and the seniors want to rewrite the ending, because the murderer in their midst is dead-set on bringing the curtain down on all of them . . .
Praise for the Books of J. C.
“Fun characters, a touch of humor, and a great mystery, the perfect combination for a cozy.” —Lena Gregory, author of the All Day Breakfast Café Mysteries on Ditched 4 Murder
“So cleverly written, you won’t guess the perpetrators until the very end.” —Mary Marks, award-winning author of the Quilting Mystery Series on Booked 4 Murder
“A thoroughly entertaining series debut, with enjoyable yet realistic characters and enough plot twists—and dead ends—to appeal from beginning to end.” —Booklist, starred review, on Booked 4 Murder
“Enjoy this laugh-out-loud funny mystery that will make you scream for the authors to get busy on the next one.” —Suspense Magazine on Molded 4 Murder
About the
J. C. Eaton is the pen name of husband-and-wife writing team Ann I. Goldfarb and the late James E. Clapp. They are the authors of the Wine Trail Mysteries, the Sophie Kimball Mysteries, the Marcie Rayner Mysteries, and the Charcuterie Shop Mysteries. In addition, Ann has published nine YA time travel mysteries under her own name. You can learn more about them at jceatonmysteries.com, jceatonauthor.com, facebook.com/JCEatonauthor, and timetravelmysteries.com.
- GenresMystery
211 pages, Paperback
Published July 15, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
September 1, 2026
Sophie "Phee" Kimball-Gregory lives in Arizona with her private detective husband, Marshall. They both work for a PI agency, and most times things are routine -- missing and/or cheating spouses, etc. Except when Phee's mother gets involved. Which she does. A lot.
When one of Harriet Kimball's friends wins a mystery weekend for 10 at a local Victorian B&B, he has no interest in going (he'd rather be fishing) so he offers it to Harriet who, of course, is thrilled and can't wait to ask Phee to accompany her and Harriet's senior friends. Hoping to keep them out of trouble, she reluctantly agrees, if only to remind them that this is a fake murder, not a real one.
But Phee spoke too soon. After an impromptu performance by Harriet (also unscripted and uncalled for), the director offers roles to Harriet, her sister Ina, and their friend Myrna. Three divas who will try to upstage each other -- and say whatever comes into their heads. Phee thinks things can't get any worse. She's wrong.
When a real murder occurs, the investigators are on it, as well as the local police. And the seniors. Who weren't asked. Who aren't wanted. Who think they can solve the murder first. Not to mention the other guests of the B&B, who are raring to solve a real murder as well. So now Phee is stuck in place as the head of the group, trying to keep them out of the way of the police as she tells them to only gather information. Will that work? Nope. Not in the case of Harriet and friends.
They want to force a confession -- but they don't know who the murderer is. So they decide to do it their own way, almost driving Phee crazy...
This is the 16th book in the series, and I have read them all. In my opinion, they are fun, witty, and hilarious. Especially Phee's nutty mother and her Aunt Ina. Not to mention a truly funny scene involving her Uncle Louis. But that's another tale best left for the readers.
The descriptions of the B&B are done so well that I'd be willing to travel to Arizona just to stay there. But not on a mystery weekend. I have no desire for 'accidental' deaths (ha). Fortunately, I discovered the identity of the murderer right around the time Phee did, so that was pleasant. The seniors, as always, are entertaining, and no, I wouldn't want to spend time with any of them (except maybe Herb, as he sounds like a hoot). When the story comes to an end, you don't want it to. You want to see what happens next. Which, of course, is the whole purpose of a book, right? Highly recommended.
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
When one of Harriet Kimball's friends wins a mystery weekend for 10 at a local Victorian B&B, he has no interest in going (he'd rather be fishing) so he offers it to Harriet who, of course, is thrilled and can't wait to ask Phee to accompany her and Harriet's senior friends. Hoping to keep them out of trouble, she reluctantly agrees, if only to remind them that this is a fake murder, not a real one.
But Phee spoke too soon. After an impromptu performance by Harriet (also unscripted and uncalled for), the director offers roles to Harriet, her sister Ina, and their friend Myrna. Three divas who will try to upstage each other -- and say whatever comes into their heads. Phee thinks things can't get any worse. She's wrong.
When a real murder occurs, the investigators are on it, as well as the local police. And the seniors. Who weren't asked. Who aren't wanted. Who think they can solve the murder first. Not to mention the other guests of the B&B, who are raring to solve a real murder as well. So now Phee is stuck in place as the head of the group, trying to keep them out of the way of the police as she tells them to only gather information. Will that work? Nope. Not in the case of Harriet and friends.
They want to force a confession -- but they don't know who the murderer is. So they decide to do it their own way, almost driving Phee crazy...
This is the 16th book in the series, and I have read them all. In my opinion, they are fun, witty, and hilarious. Especially Phee's nutty mother and her Aunt Ina. Not to mention a truly funny scene involving her Uncle Louis. But that's another tale best left for the readers.
The descriptions of the B&B are done so well that I'd be willing to travel to Arizona just to stay there. But not on a mystery weekend. I have no desire for 'accidental' deaths (ha). Fortunately, I discovered the identity of the murderer right around the time Phee did, so that was pleasant. The seniors, as always, are entertaining, and no, I wouldn't want to spend time with any of them (except maybe Herb, as he sounds like a hoot). When the story comes to an end, you don't want it to. You want to see what happens next. Which, of course, is the whole purpose of a book, right? Highly recommended.
I was given a copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley but this in no way influenced my review.
September 20, 2026
A strange book that I didn't hate but it probably won't linger in my mind for too long, despite the really awesome concept.
We start off with a bang, the frenzied energy that the whole book shows off, as the book club ladies are given not only tickets to a murder mystery weekend but wind up being directly involved.
The first 30% or so of the book is devoted almost exclusively to a missing deputy (and fish) case. Its an entertaining case in its own right, but while I really like the idea the author seems to be going for, in that they are a busy agency with multiple cases on the go at the same time, it doesn't work. If the two cases had happened more at the same time, woven into each other, it would have been better. This felt almost jarring, and out of place. While there is a little follow up in the later pages, that could have still happened if the stories had been better connected.
Then there is the murder mystery itself. This book takes a *long* time to get to the actual murder, which I wouldn't have minded if there had felt like more real build up.
The problem with it being set within a murder mystery weekend is the main suspects are known by both their character name and their real name. It was hard to keep them all straight and honestly I knew more about the fake murder suspects than I did the real ones.
Her mother felt like far more of a chore this time round, the book really leans into the zany elements. Almost too much as I don't recall being this frustrated by her antics in previous ones, but I was almost cringing by the end whenever she and her cohort showed up. I want to enjoy her crazy, not flee from them. I still really enjoyed poor Phee's put upon life however, her asides and her struggles to try and keep these crazy people under control.
I loved that Streetman was a truly chaotic element to the book. I love cosy books and I love the improbable amazing cats and dogs that are in them, dogs that can solve crime, cats that are trained to wait patiently by doors. But sometimes its just fun to see a badly behaved, happy go lucky dog that just wants what he wants. Streetman is far more like a real dog and far too similar to my own.
The reveal was fine, there wasn't really much to the case. If you enjoy this genre then you are going to really like this one but I'm hoping for the next one being better.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
We start off with a bang, the frenzied energy that the whole book shows off, as the book club ladies are given not only tickets to a murder mystery weekend but wind up being directly involved.
The first 30% or so of the book is devoted almost exclusively to a missing deputy (and fish) case. Its an entertaining case in its own right, but while I really like the idea the author seems to be going for, in that they are a busy agency with multiple cases on the go at the same time, it doesn't work. If the two cases had happened more at the same time, woven into each other, it would have been better. This felt almost jarring, and out of place. While there is a little follow up in the later pages, that could have still happened if the stories had been better connected.
Then there is the murder mystery itself. This book takes a *long* time to get to the actual murder, which I wouldn't have minded if there had felt like more real build up.
The problem with it being set within a murder mystery weekend is the main suspects are known by both their character name and their real name. It was hard to keep them all straight and honestly I knew more about the fake murder suspects than I did the real ones.
Her mother felt like far more of a chore this time round, the book really leans into the zany elements. Almost too much as I don't recall being this frustrated by her antics in previous ones, but I was almost cringing by the end whenever she and her cohort showed up. I want to enjoy her crazy, not flee from them. I still really enjoyed poor Phee's put upon life however, her asides and her struggles to try and keep these crazy people under control.
I loved that Streetman was a truly chaotic element to the book. I love cosy books and I love the improbable amazing cats and dogs that are in them, dogs that can solve crime, cats that are trained to wait patiently by doors. But sometimes its just fun to see a badly behaved, happy go lucky dog that just wants what he wants. Streetman is far more like a real dog and far too similar to my own.
The reveal was fine, there wasn't really much to the case. If you enjoy this genre then you are going to really like this one but I'm hoping for the next one being better.
~Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review~
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
First, an admission. Even while shaking me head and rolling my eyes at the antics of Phee's mother Harriett and her equally quirky, strong minded Sun City pals, I adore this series. I not only fully enjoy the frequent insanity of the Sun City bunch but am always amazed how Phee, usually with help from hubby Marshall and his investigative partner Nate, somehow manage to make it all make sense.
Seriously, as is noted in the book, every time they think Harriet and the Sun City West gang can't get into or make things worse, they somehow manage to outdo themselves. I'm not even going to attempt to detail the plot but will say you'll come away perhaps knowing more about fish taxidermy than you ever wanted to. You'll also meet Austin, so to speak. Nope, not even going there to explain that one. You'll also meet a cast of actors putting on a mystery murder at a swanky hotel with, uh, oh, the Sun City West ladies involved in the play. Then there's a real murder. The Sun City ladies have been inserting lines as they occur to them, never mind what the script says, which just adds to the confusion and chaos. The guests there for the mystery murder show get into it all, too, adding to the enthusiasm and confusion, which is interrupted briefly by the appearance of the series' biggest scene stealer, Streetman. Nope, again. Not telling but it is a riot. Oh, and there's a fish involved, too, just to confuse you more. Grin.
Bottom line, while I'm sure I've only manged to confuse you, if you like your mysteries with an ample dose of humor and fun, quirky characters, this one may be for you. I mean, even their cyber hacker, er, sleuth, is a character in all possible ways. Thanks #BeyondThePage for initially introducing me to Sophia/Phee and her merry cast of friends and family, outlandish as they may be at times. I appreciate the early peeks at her life, knowing I'll not only be thoroughly invested in the story, even when totally mystified at how it all connects, and will come way with a smile. We all need all the smiles we can find in life, don't we. Definitely never a dull moment when the Sun City West bunch is about.
Seriously, as is noted in the book, every time they think Harriet and the Sun City West gang can't get into or make things worse, they somehow manage to outdo themselves. I'm not even going to attempt to detail the plot but will say you'll come away perhaps knowing more about fish taxidermy than you ever wanted to. You'll also meet Austin, so to speak. Nope, not even going there to explain that one. You'll also meet a cast of actors putting on a mystery murder at a swanky hotel with, uh, oh, the Sun City West ladies involved in the play. Then there's a real murder. The Sun City ladies have been inserting lines as they occur to them, never mind what the script says, which just adds to the confusion and chaos. The guests there for the mystery murder show get into it all, too, adding to the enthusiasm and confusion, which is interrupted briefly by the appearance of the series' biggest scene stealer, Streetman. Nope, again. Not telling but it is a riot. Oh, and there's a fish involved, too, just to confuse you more. Grin.
Bottom line, while I'm sure I've only manged to confuse you, if you like your mysteries with an ample dose of humor and fun, quirky characters, this one may be for you. I mean, even their cyber hacker, er, sleuth, is a character in all possible ways. Thanks #BeyondThePage for initially introducing me to Sophia/Phee and her merry cast of friends and family, outlandish as they may be at times. I appreciate the early peeks at her life, knowing I'll not only be thoroughly invested in the story, even when totally mystified at how it all connects, and will come way with a smile. We all need all the smiles we can find in life, don't we. Definitely never a dull moment when the Sun City West bunch is about.
September 21, 2026
Phee is back, this time trying to corral her mother and the book club ladies at a murder mystery weekend. What was supposed to be a weekend of entertainment and live performance takes a turn when an actual corpse is found - and Phee has little choice but to help investigate.
This was a peculiar one and I don't honestly know what I think about it. I think my overall feeling is that it was a bit...too much? I like this series, I like that Phee is often a reluctant participant and spends most of her time trying to keep others out of trouble rather than running headlong into peril. I enjoy the comedy value of her asides and the slightly slapstick nature of the scenes but for me this felt like it leant too far into the zany, and suffered for it.
The thing I struggled with the most was the number of names to keep straight - made worse by the fact that characters were referred to by both their own name and the name of the stage character they were playing; often on the same page. I loved the murder mystery setting but that element of it over-complicated it for me and it sadly meant that we didn't get to know any of the cast in any meaningful way. I enjoyed the fact that a lot of the scene and potential motive setting happened before the murder - that was a novel approach I thought - but it did take a long time to get to the body being discovered.
I found myself really frustrated with Phee's mother in this book, usually she's funny but in this book I thought she was insufferable and for the first time I found that I wanted there to be some comeback on her antics. The case itself was fine, not overly strong but I did enjoy the breadcrumbs and was satisfied with the conclusion. Streetman - despite being largely absent for most of the book - still makes his presence felt in a beautifully chaotic high impact way, as does Ina's husband towards the end of the book, which I liked.
Definitely a strange one, and one I'm unlikely to come back to but I still enjoy the series so will be back for the next instalment.
-Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
This was a peculiar one and I don't honestly know what I think about it. I think my overall feeling is that it was a bit...too much? I like this series, I like that Phee is often a reluctant participant and spends most of her time trying to keep others out of trouble rather than running headlong into peril. I enjoy the comedy value of her asides and the slightly slapstick nature of the scenes but for me this felt like it leant too far into the zany, and suffered for it.
The thing I struggled with the most was the number of names to keep straight - made worse by the fact that characters were referred to by both their own name and the name of the stage character they were playing; often on the same page. I loved the murder mystery setting but that element of it over-complicated it for me and it sadly meant that we didn't get to know any of the cast in any meaningful way. I enjoyed the fact that a lot of the scene and potential motive setting happened before the murder - that was a novel approach I thought - but it did take a long time to get to the body being discovered.
I found myself really frustrated with Phee's mother in this book, usually she's funny but in this book I thought she was insufferable and for the first time I found that I wanted there to be some comeback on her antics. The case itself was fine, not overly strong but I did enjoy the breadcrumbs and was satisfied with the conclusion. Streetman - despite being largely absent for most of the book - still makes his presence felt in a beautifully chaotic high impact way, as does Ina's husband towards the end of the book, which I liked.
Definitely a strange one, and one I'm unlikely to come back to but I still enjoy the series so will be back for the next instalment.
-Thanks to NetGalley for granting me this ARC in exchange for an honest review -
September 7, 2026
Probably a four star book but I’ll add a star because hallelujah! no Streetman! Or at least minimal Streetman. Even believable, not over-the-top Streetman. Best part of the book.
When Herb wins an all-inclusive get away to a fancy inn, he and the Pinochle Crew have no interest. He kindly gifts the package to the Book Club Ladies who are ecstatic to learn it is a Murder Mystery Weekend. Actors will be mingling among the guests, a “murder” will occur and the guests have the opportunity to solve the crime.
Beyond all reason, Harriet, Ina and Myrna are given roles. Because being involved is not enough they concoct a plan -or several plans- to improve the script. Somehow repeated derailing of the production with their adlibs does not cause the director to say “thank you, we will no longer need your services”. I believe their interruptions hindering the plot was supposed to be the humor part. Mostly it’s just embarrassing reading about these women’s antics. Exception may be getting their clothing caught in the box springs after two of them had to hide under the bed in the room of one of the actors.
My e-book Cast of Characters section did not include the Theatre Troupe’s. That would have been helpful. Readers had to keep their names and well as the play’s character’s names straight.
When Herb wins an all-inclusive get away to a fancy inn, he and the Pinochle Crew have no interest. He kindly gifts the package to the Book Club Ladies who are ecstatic to learn it is a Murder Mystery Weekend. Actors will be mingling among the guests, a “murder” will occur and the guests have the opportunity to solve the crime.
Beyond all reason, Harriet, Ina and Myrna are given roles. Because being involved is not enough they concoct a plan -or several plans- to improve the script. Somehow repeated derailing of the production with their adlibs does not cause the director to say “thank you, we will no longer need your services”. I believe their interruptions hindering the plot was supposed to be the humor part. Mostly it’s just embarrassing reading about these women’s antics. Exception may be getting their clothing caught in the box springs after two of them had to hide under the bed in the room of one of the actors.
My e-book Cast of Characters section did not include the Theatre Troupe’s. That would have been helpful. Readers had to keep their names and well as the play’s character’s names straight.
October 12, 2026
I received this book courtesy of NetGalley for the purpose of a fair and honest review.
Overview: Sophie Kimball has found out that her mother and her mother's book club has been gifted tickets to a murder mystery dinner weekend. Marshall says that this ought to keep the book club out of trouble. But, Phee doesn't believe so. Now, Phee has to keep Streetman from pretending to be a baby as the hotel hosting the mystery weekend doesn't allow dogs, not even chiweenies. When one of the actors die a true death, Phee and the private investigation firm, that she and Marshall work for, are invited onto the case. Good thing too, as Phee's Momma isn't going to miss the chance to investigate a real murder. Can Phee corral the book club? And there is no way that Streetman will show up, right? Let's find out.
Dislikes: The Maricopa deputies always seem to look bad. I blame their laziness as they always seem to pass the buck, so to speak, to Marshall and the investigation firm.
Likes: Phee ran herself near ragged just to preserve the strength of the case.
Also, there is a funny side story about Austin. Here's a hint, it has nothing to do with Texas.
Conclusion: This was a fun story. If you've missed spending time with Phee and her personal circle, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Overview: Sophie Kimball has found out that her mother and her mother's book club has been gifted tickets to a murder mystery dinner weekend. Marshall says that this ought to keep the book club out of trouble. But, Phee doesn't believe so. Now, Phee has to keep Streetman from pretending to be a baby as the hotel hosting the mystery weekend doesn't allow dogs, not even chiweenies. When one of the actors die a true death, Phee and the private investigation firm, that she and Marshall work for, are invited onto the case. Good thing too, as Phee's Momma isn't going to miss the chance to investigate a real murder. Can Phee corral the book club? And there is no way that Streetman will show up, right? Let's find out.
Dislikes: The Maricopa deputies always seem to look bad. I blame their laziness as they always seem to pass the buck, so to speak, to Marshall and the investigation firm.
Likes: Phee ran herself near ragged just to preserve the strength of the case.
Also, there is a funny side story about Austin. Here's a hint, it has nothing to do with Texas.
Conclusion: This was a fun story. If you've missed spending time with Phee and her personal circle, then this book is for you. Enjoy the read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've read several but not all of the books in this fun cozy series. Accountant Sophie "Phee" Kimball is an accountant that has helped to investigate several suspicious deaths. Her mom, Harriet, and her friends at a Sun City Retirement community are usually involved. Harriet's mischievous “chiweenie”, Streetman, is always good for a laugh even when the predicaments he gets into are often frustrating for Phee.
I've missed the last few books in this series, so it was fun to catch up with Phee, Harriett, Streetman, and all the other main characters. This book is about Phee, her mom, and her mom's friends attending a mystery weekend in a Victorian mansion. When an actual death occurs, it's up to Phee and the Senior sleuths to find the killer. This book was just as funny as prior books that I've read. Phee and Harriet have a fun relationship. There is always love there even when Harriet drags Phee into silly situations. Adding in all the actors from the show makes this book even more fun. I was surprised at how the mystery turned out and enjoyed the journey to get there. I enjoyed this fast-paced cozy filled with quirky characters and humor.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Beyond The Page and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
I've missed the last few books in this series, so it was fun to catch up with Phee, Harriett, Streetman, and all the other main characters. This book is about Phee, her mom, and her mom's friends attending a mystery weekend in a Victorian mansion. When an actual death occurs, it's up to Phee and the Senior sleuths to find the killer. This book was just as funny as prior books that I've read. Phee and Harriet have a fun relationship. There is always love there even when Harriet drags Phee into silly situations. Adding in all the actors from the show makes this book even more fun. I was surprised at how the mystery turned out and enjoyed the journey to get there. I enjoyed this fast-paced cozy filled with quirky characters and humor.
I received an advance copy of this ebook from Beyond The Page and NetGalley. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
October 21, 2026
Anyone familiar with this series knows long suffering Phee who must deal with her manic mother and her lunatic posse of elderly ladies. The Book Club can find any situation and make it worse even without the four legged chaos known as Streetman. The ladies and Phee land in an exquisite hotel for a murder mystery weekend. The director has made the egregious mistake of giving three of the ladies carte Blanche to ad lib as characters. They had already conspired to change the entire script but when one of the actors is murdered, all bets are off as to the mayhem and madness they can create.
While Phee attempts, without success, to corral them, the two local detectives and Marshall try to piece the evidence together and come up with the murderer. Things are looking dark for one of the company but Phee figures out the real villain is still to be revealed. She confronts the killer and when the cavalry comes to save her, a scene out of Night At The Opera ensues. People keep arriving until no one can breathe let alone move. It is scenes like that which will have the reader chuckling if not the occasional guffaw.
Fast paced and fun this is the perfect antidote to whatever ails you. Five purrs and two paws up.
While Phee attempts, without success, to corral them, the two local detectives and Marshall try to piece the evidence together and come up with the murderer. Things are looking dark for one of the company but Phee figures out the real villain is still to be revealed. She confronts the killer and when the cavalry comes to save her, a scene out of Night At The Opera ensues. People keep arriving until no one can breathe let alone move. It is scenes like that which will have the reader chuckling if not the occasional guffaw.
Fast paced and fun this is the perfect antidote to whatever ails you. Five purrs and two paws up.
August 12, 2026
2 1/2 stars. The book club labies of Sun City West are given the chance to go to a murder mystery weekend at a fancy hotel. Besides their crazy antics there is an actual murder. Its up to the group and Phee Kimball, the daughter of one of the members and maybe the only sane one, to bring the killer to justice.
I had never read this series before and at first was a little turned off by how often Phee was mentally saying something about the crazy things her mother and the book club would get into when it took a while before there was any proof. Ok, it did get funny and crazy. But all the little mental remarks began to add up as being pretty negative. I also thought that too much time was spent on finding Austin (to say more would be a spoiler for some amusing incidents).
Maybe this wasn't really me. I thought that a lot of it was over the top, which was the point I know, but just got too much. The mystery was solid and there were funny moments, just to overblown and drawn out.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
I had never read this series before and at first was a little turned off by how often Phee was mentally saying something about the crazy things her mother and the book club would get into when it took a while before there was any proof. Ok, it did get funny and crazy. But all the little mental remarks began to add up as being pretty negative. I also thought that too much time was spent on finding Austin (to say more would be a spoiler for some amusing incidents).
Maybe this wasn't really me. I thought that a lot of it was over the top, which was the point I know, but just got too much. The mystery was solid and there were funny moments, just to overblown and drawn out.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Casting Call 4 Murder is the latest mystery in the long running Sophie Kimball series by J.C. Eaton. I always enjoy these mysteries and this was no exception. Phee’s mother and her friends end up at a murder mystery weekend at a local hotel and of course murder and hilarity ensues. Although there is a mystery to solve and it is fun to figure out, I read these books for the humor. I laughed out loud numerous times at the antics of the book club ladies and fish guys and of course Streetman. As soon as I tell my family I have a new Streetman mystery to read, they know it will move to the top of my TBR pile and I will be laughing and reading until it’s finished. The setting in this book was especially fun and the way the book club ladies get involved in the murder mystery weekend is fantastic!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book. All opinions are my own.
August 14, 2026
Casting Call 4 Murder is the 16th Sophie Kimball Mystery. The book takes the reader farther than we’ve ever gone. The murder doesn’t happen until after the 50% mark. Leading up to it are a prize won, a missing fish, a missing deputy, and a fancy Victorian Inn.
The promise of a murder mystery weekend has the book club ladies in full tilt. Phee’s mom Harriet, aunt Ina and Myrna get ad lib roles in the murder mystery play. It makes the weekend a wild ride.
I’m still wrapping my thoughts around the this tale. I think the craziness of this story might scare off a new reader. This is one series that you may want to read earlier books first so you get used to the antics of the books club ladies.
I admit I did not miss Streetman at all. I know animal enthusiasts will disapprove, but this had plenty going on without any more Streetman than was there.
Thanks to Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
The promise of a murder mystery weekend has the book club ladies in full tilt. Phee’s mom Harriet, aunt Ina and Myrna get ad lib roles in the murder mystery play. It makes the weekend a wild ride.
I’m still wrapping my thoughts around the this tale. I think the craziness of this story might scare off a new reader. This is one series that you may want to read earlier books first so you get used to the antics of the books club ladies.
I admit I did not miss Streetman at all. I know animal enthusiasts will disapprove, but this had plenty going on without any more Streetman than was there.
Thanks to Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for the opportunity to read this book.
August 11, 2026
When the ladies are given a free Murder Mystery weekend at a B&B, Phee finds herself along for the weekend as a baby sitter of sorts. Soon though, the ladies find themselves trying to solve a real murder when one of the cast members is killed.
Can the guests solve a real murder along with the scripted one? More importantly can Phee keep her Mother and the ladies from wreaking even more havoc than the murderer already has? Only time will tell…and that’s if they don’t tick off the murderer enough to cause themselves to be next on the list.
A fun series that you can relate to whether from Phee’s or her Mother’s perspective. Because we all know that parent/child dynamic and how ti plays out. This series always makes me want to grab a bagel and schemes or pie to enjoy along with the book. It’s a favorite series of mine!
Can the guests solve a real murder along with the scripted one? More importantly can Phee keep her Mother and the ladies from wreaking even more havoc than the murderer already has? Only time will tell…and that’s if they don’t tick off the murderer enough to cause themselves to be next on the list.
A fun series that you can relate to whether from Phee’s or her Mother’s perspective. Because we all know that parent/child dynamic and how ti plays out. This series always makes me want to grab a bagel and schemes or pie to enjoy along with the book. It’s a favorite series of mine!
August 11, 2026
Isn’t that the most adorable book cover with little Streetman holding that fish? There’s a hilarious story behind it too you’ll learn when you read this book. Phee was doing her usual herding of cats, er book club ladies when Harriet and the gang were gifted with a murder mystery weekend. The funniest part was that Harriet, Myrna and Ina were gonna be extras and got to improv their roles—oh boy did they! 🤣
More hilarity happened when Streetman who was being dog-sat by Paul went on an outing with him. Nope I won’t spoil it but it was super funny. Phee of course figured out the killer and faced off with them but held her own until the cavalry arrived. What a fun book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
More hilarity happened when Streetman who was being dog-sat by Paul went on an outing with him. Nope I won’t spoil it but it was super funny. Phee of course figured out the killer and faced off with them but held her own until the cavalry arrived. What a fun book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by Beyond the Page via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Phee and her husband are transplanted Mankato MN residents who now live in Sun City, AZ not far from Phee's mom. Phee works as a bookkeeper at the detective agency where her husband, Marshall is employed. Most of the time, Phee is trying to keep her mom and her book club friends out of trouble. The book club ladies tend to rush head on into adventures without thinking of consequences. There is humor throughout the book. Phee's mom and her entourage have won a weekend at a Inn where they will be participants in a murder mystery play. Before long, there is a murder. The book club gang are determined to find the guilty party. Phee is determined to keep them out of the hands of the local authorities.
August 30, 2026
The Fish is Delish But, as Shakespeare Said, the Play's the Thing
First, there's the stolen taxidermy fish case which somehow manages to connect itself to the murder mystery weekend. Sophia, aka Phee, once again finds herself reluctantly involved in the antics of her mom's madcap group of book club senior citizens and their pals as they participate in a murder mystery play weekend at a swanky inn. As a special bonus, a real murder is also committed, giving the book club ladies two investigations in which to insert themselves, with hilarious results. Streetman the neurotic dog provides more comedy. This book is part of a series with good plotting and lots of laughs--a winning combination!
First, there's the stolen taxidermy fish case which somehow manages to connect itself to the murder mystery weekend. Sophia, aka Phee, once again finds herself reluctantly involved in the antics of her mom's madcap group of book club senior citizens and their pals as they participate in a murder mystery play weekend at a swanky inn. As a special bonus, a real murder is also committed, giving the book club ladies two investigations in which to insert themselves, with hilarious results. Streetman the neurotic dog provides more comedy. This book is part of a series with good plotting and lots of laughs--a winning combination!
September 1, 2026
Let the craziness begin
I love the absurdity of this series. I also love the Arizona references. The writers of this series are brilliant. Highly recommend if you live in Arizona and/or love absurdity.
I love the absurdity of this series. I also love the Arizona references. The writers of this series are brilliant. Highly recommend if you live in Arizona and/or love absurdity.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Murder mystery weekend turns into a real murder investigation. Local book club helps look for clues. Wonderful characters, Good story. Humorous.
October 12, 2026
I bought this book and feel gypped. Harriet and Streetman make this series worth reading. Phee and Marshall are dull. Why next to no Streetman? This is the most boring book in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My rating 4.5
“Casting Call 4 Murder" the 16th instalment in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series by J.C. Eaton. I love this series, it always has me laughing at Phee’s mums and Streetman’s antics. When a theater group’s murder mystery weekend turns deadly, the seniors of Sun City West take on a starring role in catching the killer .
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it in almost one day. I love the characters which are well developed. There is plenty of humour and we can’t forget Streetman the chiweenie in the B&B with a fish in his mouth causing havoc! I laughed at the chaos he caused.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted as well as full of twists and turns. Always an entertaining, fun read. This is one of my favourite series and I always buy in Paperback as I know I will read again.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
“Casting Call 4 Murder" the 16th instalment in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series by J.C. Eaton. I love this series, it always has me laughing at Phee’s mums and Streetman’s antics. When a theater group’s murder mystery weekend turns deadly, the seniors of Sun City West take on a starring role in catching the killer .
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it in almost one day. I love the characters which are well developed. There is plenty of humour and we can’t forget Streetman the chiweenie in the B&B with a fish in his mouth causing havoc! I laughed at the chaos he caused.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted as well as full of twists and turns. Always an entertaining, fun read. This is one of my favourite series and I always buy in Paperback as I know I will read again.
I highly recommend this series to all my cozy loving friends.
I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from Kensington Books and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 17, 2026
Exhausting. So hyper. I tried, truly I did but it was so all over the place and I could not identify or empathise with any of the bewildering number of characters. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
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