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Glass Dolphin Mystery #1
The Hanged Man's Noose
Small-town secrets and subterfuge lead to murder in this fast-moving, deftly written tale of high-stakes real estate wrangling gone amok.
Journalist Emily Garland lands a plum assignment as the editor of a niche magazine based in Lount’s Landing, a small town named after a colorful nineteenth century Canadian traitor. As she interviews the local business owners for the magazine, Emily quickly learns that many people are unhappy with real estate mogul Garrett Stonehaven’s plans to convert an old schoolhouse into a mega-box store. At the top of that list is Arabella Carpenter, the outspoken owner of an antiques shop, who will do just about anything to preserve the integrity of the town’s historic Main Street.
But Arabella is not alone in her opposition. Before long, a vocal dissenter at a town hall meeting about the proposed project dies. A few days later, another body is discovered, and although both deaths are ruled accidental, Emily’s journalistic suspicions are aroused.
Putting her reporting skills to the ultimate test, Emily teams up with Arabella to discover the truth behind Stonehaven’s latest scheme before the murderer strikes again.
Journalist Emily Garland lands a plum assignment as the editor of a niche magazine based in Lount’s Landing, a small town named after a colorful nineteenth century Canadian traitor. As she interviews the local business owners for the magazine, Emily quickly learns that many people are unhappy with real estate mogul Garrett Stonehaven’s plans to convert an old schoolhouse into a mega-box store. At the top of that list is Arabella Carpenter, the outspoken owner of an antiques shop, who will do just about anything to preserve the integrity of the town’s historic Main Street.
But Arabella is not alone in her opposition. Before long, a vocal dissenter at a town hall meeting about the proposed project dies. A few days later, another body is discovered, and although both deaths are ruled accidental, Emily’s journalistic suspicions are aroused.
Putting her reporting skills to the ultimate test, Emily teams up with Arabella to discover the truth behind Stonehaven’s latest scheme before the murderer strikes again.
178 pages, Paperback
First published July 28, 2015
14 people are currently reading
576 people want to read
About the author
Judy Penz Sheluk
45 books357 followersA former journalist and magazine editor, Judy Penz Sheluk is the bestselling author of Finding Your Path to Publication and Self-publishing: The Ins & Outs of Going Indie, as well as two mystery series: the Glass Dolphin Mysteries and Marketville Mysteries, both of which have been published in multiple languages. Her short crime fiction appears in several collections, including the Superior Shores Anthologies, which she also edited.
Judy is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association, Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, the Short Mystery Fiction Society, and Crime Writers of Canada, where she served on the Board of Directors for five years, the final two as Chair. She lives in Northern Ontario.
Judy is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association, Sisters in Crime, International Thriller Writers, the Short Mystery Fiction Society, and Crime Writers of Canada, where she served on the Board of Directors for five years, the final two as Chair. She lives in Northern Ontario.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
February 21, 2016
Novel received courtesy of Goodread.com giveaway
I enjoyed this novel as a quirky mystery that turned out to be really enjoyable. The book was complicated by too many characters with too much background information to keep straight in such a short book. It would have been better, in my opinion, to have fewer characters. The author worked so diligently to give her characters rich backgrounds and I appreciate that.
The story takes place in Lount's Landing, a small town north of Toronto that is in the process of trying to revitalize the downtown. Garrett Stonehaven, a rich man from Toronto, wants to buy the unused elementary school and turn it into a mega-box store. Of course, this starts all sorts of trouble in town. There are connections in this community that go back to childhood and those connections play a part in the mystery.
I enjoyed this novel as a quirky mystery that turned out to be really enjoyable. The book was complicated by too many characters with too much background information to keep straight in such a short book. It would have been better, in my opinion, to have fewer characters. The author worked so diligently to give her characters rich backgrounds and I appreciate that.
The story takes place in Lount's Landing, a small town north of Toronto that is in the process of trying to revitalize the downtown. Garrett Stonehaven, a rich man from Toronto, wants to buy the unused elementary school and turn it into a mega-box store. Of course, this starts all sorts of trouble in town. There are connections in this community that go back to childhood and those connections play a part in the mystery.
February 23, 2019
Emily Garland is a freelance reporter with a much coveted contract to write monthly articles about condo developments for a popular lifestyle magazine in Toronto. One of her best sources of quotes and information is well known developer Garrett Stonehaven. Emily has recently become single and, due to personal reasons, has developed an intense dislike for Garrett Stonehaven. As a result, when her boss offers her an assignment in Lount’s Landing, a small village outside of Toronto, she decides to accept. The assignment is lucrative and also involves keeping a watchful eye on, and reporting, any irregularities by Garret Stonehaven, who has recently acquired a moth-balled old school in the village for developmental purposes. Emily moves to Lount’s Landing under the guise of turning around a local monthly magazine that her company has recently acquired.
It doesn’t take long for Emily to start integrating herself into the lives of the various members of this small community, many of whom own ailing business along Main Street, which has been steadily losing popularity and customers. She soon realizes that there is a conflict of interest among the retailers, some of whom do not want Garrett Stonehaven’s mega-box development and some of whom see it as an opportunity to revitalise Main Street and their businesses. The unexpected death of one of the protesting retailers brings the motives of everyone in the village into question and Emily sets out to try and investigate whether the death was natural or murder.
I enjoyed the character of Emily, she was an interesting mix of naivety, intelligence, uncertainty and determination. Together with her new friend, Arabella, who has just opened an antiques store on Main Street, Emily becomes embroiled in a plot by ruthless and conscienceless people, to stop Garrett Stonehaven, not necessarily for the obvious reasons. I enjoyed this pairing and found these two characters to be resourceful and interesting.
The book moves along at a good pace and has plenty of small town interest and gossip to entertain the reader as the plot unfolds. The ending was satisfying and cleverly wound up all the lose ends.
It doesn’t take long for Emily to start integrating herself into the lives of the various members of this small community, many of whom own ailing business along Main Street, which has been steadily losing popularity and customers. She soon realizes that there is a conflict of interest among the retailers, some of whom do not want Garrett Stonehaven’s mega-box development and some of whom see it as an opportunity to revitalise Main Street and their businesses. The unexpected death of one of the protesting retailers brings the motives of everyone in the village into question and Emily sets out to try and investigate whether the death was natural or murder.
I enjoyed the character of Emily, she was an interesting mix of naivety, intelligence, uncertainty and determination. Together with her new friend, Arabella, who has just opened an antiques store on Main Street, Emily becomes embroiled in a plot by ruthless and conscienceless people, to stop Garrett Stonehaven, not necessarily for the obvious reasons. I enjoyed this pairing and found these two characters to be resourceful and interesting.
The book moves along at a good pace and has plenty of small town interest and gossip to entertain the reader as the plot unfolds. The ending was satisfying and cleverly wound up all the lose ends.
March 26, 2020
I enjoyed this book. It is the the first book by this author I have listened to but I have already downloaded the next book. Mainly because it was a good mystery and I didn't see who the killer was. The story is told by two characters so you get information and clues from two perspectives. They is a lot of characters so didn't always keel them straight but it did make it interesting, plenty of suspects. I think the characters will over time and each book grow to be likeable people.
Emily is given a new assignment as the editor of a magazine, her real job is to work out what Garrett Stonehaven a developer wants with a small town. Emily and Garrett have a history so she jumps at the chance to find any dirt on the man she blames for her Mother's death. The problem is Lount's landing is anything but a sleepy town and the town is divided into two camps the ones that love his ideas for main street and the one's against. Within days of arriving there are two deaths but were they really accidents? Emily's reporter nose tells her no. She quickly makes friends with the new owner of the glass dolphin shop, Arabella who is firmly against the planes but can't tell her the real reason she took the job. Can the pair work out who was behind the murders and if it does have anything to do with development plans. With a small town there is plenty of gossip, history and secrets to uncover.
I liked the narrator and thought she gave different voices to different characters making them easy to tell apart.
Emily is given a new assignment as the editor of a magazine, her real job is to work out what Garrett Stonehaven a developer wants with a small town. Emily and Garrett have a history so she jumps at the chance to find any dirt on the man she blames for her Mother's death. The problem is Lount's landing is anything but a sleepy town and the town is divided into two camps the ones that love his ideas for main street and the one's against. Within days of arriving there are two deaths but were they really accidents? Emily's reporter nose tells her no. She quickly makes friends with the new owner of the glass dolphin shop, Arabella who is firmly against the planes but can't tell her the real reason she took the job. Can the pair work out who was behind the murders and if it does have anything to do with development plans. With a small town there is plenty of gossip, history and secrets to uncover.
I liked the narrator and thought she gave different voices to different characters making them easy to tell apart.
March 17, 2019
Emily Garland is a writer writing about housing developments. Her mother has just died supposedly from suicide, but Emily has her doubts. She thinks Garret Stonehaven has something to do with it. She is offered a high-paying job in Lount's Landing to find out more about Stonehaven who is involved in the revitalization. Emily gets to know the local townspeople and then a man drops dead of anaphylactic shock. Emily and Annabel (who is opening an antiques store) begin to investigate. More people end up dead before the mystery is solved.
Entertaining and interestingly written. Kept me reading.
Entertaining and interestingly written. Kept me reading.
July 14, 2018
A great mystery to follow along and try to solve. Did not see the ending coming! I also love the setting of Loundt’s Landing :)
April 9, 2018
“The Hangman’s Noose” by Judy Penz Sheluk is set in the small, picturesque, Canadian town of Lount’s Landing. Emily Garland lands a prestigious assignment as the editor of the town’s upscale magazine, but she soon finds out that when a job offer seems too good to be true it probably is.
Along with its charming setting, Lount’s Landing has a notorious history, hence the business named “The Hangman’s Noose.” The first hurdle for Garland is that she is both an outsider and the editor of a magazine that promotes a small town that might not want to be promoted. The otherwise delightful town is in turmoil due to encroaching real estate development and the hint of a “big box” store opening; two circumstances that might devastate the old-fashioned downtown and send the quaint bed and breakfast economy into a death spiral.
Many diverse and complex characters drive this story. The town’s infamous past is matched only by the hidden secrets of its residents. The discovery of a dead body ignites accusations and infighting; tensions intensify as the body count rises. Everyone has something to gain by the deaths; everyone has a hidden secret, and everyone is a suspect.
The plot realistically reflects the redevelopment and economic problems that many small towns face. In this story, economic uncertainty is complicated by the deaths; nothing hurts a small-town tourist economy like a few dead bodies.
The plot has drama, trauma, and a little fun as well. It is enjoyable, creative, well written, and easy to read. The twists and turns do not end until the book does. The ending opens the door for future adventures with the quirky characters who live in Lount’s Landing.
Judy Penz Sheluk sent me the audio version of “The Hangman’s Noose,” narrated by Suzanne Fortin. The audio was a pleasant and clearly articulated. Fortin was able to deliver the diverse personalities of both female and male characters. I listen to audio books as I go for a morning run because the suspense motivates me to get out. I did a lot of running during this book because I was compelled to listen to find out what happened next.
Along with its charming setting, Lount’s Landing has a notorious history, hence the business named “The Hangman’s Noose.” The first hurdle for Garland is that she is both an outsider and the editor of a magazine that promotes a small town that might not want to be promoted. The otherwise delightful town is in turmoil due to encroaching real estate development and the hint of a “big box” store opening; two circumstances that might devastate the old-fashioned downtown and send the quaint bed and breakfast economy into a death spiral.
Many diverse and complex characters drive this story. The town’s infamous past is matched only by the hidden secrets of its residents. The discovery of a dead body ignites accusations and infighting; tensions intensify as the body count rises. Everyone has something to gain by the deaths; everyone has a hidden secret, and everyone is a suspect.
The plot realistically reflects the redevelopment and economic problems that many small towns face. In this story, economic uncertainty is complicated by the deaths; nothing hurts a small-town tourist economy like a few dead bodies.
The plot has drama, trauma, and a little fun as well. It is enjoyable, creative, well written, and easy to read. The twists and turns do not end until the book does. The ending opens the door for future adventures with the quirky characters who live in Lount’s Landing.
Judy Penz Sheluk sent me the audio version of “The Hangman’s Noose,” narrated by Suzanne Fortin. The audio was a pleasant and clearly articulated. Fortin was able to deliver the diverse personalities of both female and male characters. I listen to audio books as I go for a morning run because the suspense motivates me to get out. I did a lot of running during this book because I was compelled to listen to find out what happened next.
February 7, 2017
Thank you very much Judy Penz Sheluk for this free copy in exchange of an honest review.
4.5 Stars.
The title was the first thing to attract me to this book, it sounded intriguing and i knew i wanted to read the story behind it.
Emily Garland, a free lancer journalist, was sent to a small town "Lount’s Landing" to investigate the new project of Garret Stonehaven, a real estate developer with a lot of enemies.
The atmosphere of this small Canadian town was simply intoxicating. I really loved it. The Main Street holding all the important commerce of the town, the one pub where everybody met, the diner where all the town had breakfast, the people who knew each other and each other's dark secrets, the gossip and all...
For a small calm town, 2 accidental deaths happening in the same week is strange enough, but when they are followed by another, which might or might not be accidental, everybody becomes suspicious. And this is when the talent of Emily comes in handy, and as she sets to discover the murderer she stumbles upon a big number of secrets, connecting a lot of people and going back in time.
The characters were an interesting mix. As it turned out that all of them can gain something or has a motive for any of these accidents, soon all the town is full of suspects.
I loved the story, it was fun with a bit of drama and i enjoyed myself a lot while reading it.
Surely i will be looking forward to reading more of the "Glass Dolphin Mystery" books. I don't think i've had enough of Lount’s Landing yet!
4.5 Stars.
The title was the first thing to attract me to this book, it sounded intriguing and i knew i wanted to read the story behind it.
Emily Garland, a free lancer journalist, was sent to a small town "Lount’s Landing" to investigate the new project of Garret Stonehaven, a real estate developer with a lot of enemies.
The atmosphere of this small Canadian town was simply intoxicating. I really loved it. The Main Street holding all the important commerce of the town, the one pub where everybody met, the diner where all the town had breakfast, the people who knew each other and each other's dark secrets, the gossip and all...
For a small calm town, 2 accidental deaths happening in the same week is strange enough, but when they are followed by another, which might or might not be accidental, everybody becomes suspicious. And this is when the talent of Emily comes in handy, and as she sets to discover the murderer she stumbles upon a big number of secrets, connecting a lot of people and going back in time.
The characters were an interesting mix. As it turned out that all of them can gain something or has a motive for any of these accidents, soon all the town is full of suspects.
I loved the story, it was fun with a bit of drama and i enjoyed myself a lot while reading it.
Surely i will be looking forward to reading more of the "Glass Dolphin Mystery" books. I don't think i've had enough of Lount’s Landing yet!
August 7, 2018
Another fun read from Judy Penz Sheluk. This is such an enjoyable cozy. It has all the basics…a neat town, a few neat stores and as usual and as in all small towns, a lot of nice folks and a few nosy ones. This town, called Lounts Landing, is named after a traitor. While there is no actual treason against one’s country in this book, there are definitely a few traitors. Another thing this neat little town has is an antique store called surprisingly enough, The Glass Dolphin. Antiques are something I like and even though this is not a story about antiques, I really like the mention of them and occasional descriptions. While I have called this a cozy and a fun, easy read, it is definitely not lightweight. There are plenty of twists and turns and dead bodies in this story:)
I read Book 2 first and liked it so much I was fortunate to get Book 1 to read. Both books can totally stand alone and have very different storylines even though they involve some of the same characters. Characters I really liked. I think Sheluk is very good at giving her characters a lot of personality. When an author is good at describing characters, not their physical characteristics but their personalities, it makes them very enjoyable and the story even more readable.
That’s what happens in both of the books in the series. I hate to be so pushy here Judy Penz Sheluk, but please hurry up and write Book 3.
***This book was provided to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are definitely my own.
I read Book 2 first and liked it so much I was fortunate to get Book 1 to read. Both books can totally stand alone and have very different storylines even though they involve some of the same characters. Characters I really liked. I think Sheluk is very good at giving her characters a lot of personality. When an author is good at describing characters, not their physical characteristics but their personalities, it makes them very enjoyable and the story even more readable.
That’s what happens in both of the books in the series. I hate to be so pushy here Judy Penz Sheluk, but please hurry up and write Book 3.
***This book was provided to me free of charge in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are definitely my own.
May 24, 2019
I received this book for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review and all opinions expressed herein are mine.
This is the first book in the Glass Dolphin Mysteries. It is a standalone story. I read the second book before the first [enjoyed both of them].
Here, Emily, a journalist, is offered an editor's job of the town magazine in Lount’s Landing. She accepts and begins trying to get to know the townspeople. She learns that a real estate developer is planning to convert the local school into a big box store and several of the townspeople are not thrilled. Soon one of fhe most vocal critics is dead, followed by another death both ruled accidents but is this too much of a coincidence? Emily decides to investigate.
This is a well-written cozy with likeable characters. There are plenty of twists in the mystery to keep you guessing. I enjoyed Arabella and her antiques shop The Glass Dolphin - the little details about the pieces and antiques in general were enjoyable. It was also fun to learn the history of the town, the various businesses and the name Hanged Man's Noose. Overall, a very entertaining cozy.
I listened to this book - the narrator did a very nice job.
This is the first book in the Glass Dolphin Mysteries. It is a standalone story. I read the second book before the first [enjoyed both of them].
Here, Emily, a journalist, is offered an editor's job of the town magazine in Lount’s Landing. She accepts and begins trying to get to know the townspeople. She learns that a real estate developer is planning to convert the local school into a big box store and several of the townspeople are not thrilled. Soon one of fhe most vocal critics is dead, followed by another death both ruled accidents but is this too much of a coincidence? Emily decides to investigate.
This is a well-written cozy with likeable characters. There are plenty of twists in the mystery to keep you guessing. I enjoyed Arabella and her antiques shop The Glass Dolphin - the little details about the pieces and antiques in general were enjoyable. It was also fun to learn the history of the town, the various businesses and the name Hanged Man's Noose. Overall, a very entertaining cozy.
I listened to this book - the narrator did a very nice job.
May 3, 2018
I had requested and received audiobook version of this book for free from the author, in exchange for an unbiased review.
I had read Judy Penz Sheluk's book Live Free or Tri a month or so ago and had loved the writing style in that book. I had wished for a longer book of similar quality from her and that's where "The Hanged Man's Noose" comes in. This one has a run time of ~7 hours and was quite satisfactory.
The writing style is same as the previous book I had read - easy going with simple sentence structure. I didn't have to pay close attention to every line, lest I lose track of what's happening. The story moved at a comfortable pace and was easy to follow. And it was entertaining. The mystery element was juuuust right for a "cozy mystery" genre; nothing too brutal or dark. There are twist n turns to keep you excited. The characters are relatable, which is always good in this genre where readers need someone to root for.
The narration was done good. Pronunciations were fine, audio quality was good too.
I had read Judy Penz Sheluk's book Live Free or Tri a month or so ago and had loved the writing style in that book. I had wished for a longer book of similar quality from her and that's where "The Hanged Man's Noose" comes in. This one has a run time of ~7 hours and was quite satisfactory.
The writing style is same as the previous book I had read - easy going with simple sentence structure. I didn't have to pay close attention to every line, lest I lose track of what's happening. The story moved at a comfortable pace and was easy to follow. And it was entertaining. The mystery element was juuuust right for a "cozy mystery" genre; nothing too brutal or dark. There are twist n turns to keep you excited. The characters are relatable, which is always good in this genre where readers need someone to root for.
The narration was done good. Pronunciations were fine, audio quality was good too.
July 17, 2018
( Format : Audiobook )
"Dark, deep and dangerous."
Toronto based freelance journalist Emily Garland is offered an assignment in a small town called Loundt's Landing, editing and revamping in local, failing monthly publication. The town had been in decline but there was a scheme that might help kick start it's recovery. Or not. Because the real reason Emily was being sent there by her boss was to investigate a certain charismatic developer and, if possible, expose him for the 'lieing, cheating bastard we both know he is."
After a somewhat conventional beginning, this enjoyable murder mystery introduces us to a cast of colourful characters, disturbing deaths, silent secrets and a fresh take on fakes and reproductions. Not the most believable of stories but great fun and well written (although the ending felt rather rushed). Suzanne T. Fortin, the narrator, did an excellent job, her pleasant, clearly enunciated voice well intoned, her reading well paced and delivered with understanding and gentle emotion. Not a great differentiation between characters voices, but the speaker was always obvious.
The Hanged Man's Noose is a pleasant mystery, fun to read and to try to guess at the answers. My thanks to the rights holder for freely gifting me a complimentary copy, at my request, via Audiobook Boom. This could turn out to be an enjoyable series.
"Dark, deep and dangerous."
Toronto based freelance journalist Emily Garland is offered an assignment in a small town called Loundt's Landing, editing and revamping in local, failing monthly publication. The town had been in decline but there was a scheme that might help kick start it's recovery. Or not. Because the real reason Emily was being sent there by her boss was to investigate a certain charismatic developer and, if possible, expose him for the 'lieing, cheating bastard we both know he is."
After a somewhat conventional beginning, this enjoyable murder mystery introduces us to a cast of colourful characters, disturbing deaths, silent secrets and a fresh take on fakes and reproductions. Not the most believable of stories but great fun and well written (although the ending felt rather rushed). Suzanne T. Fortin, the narrator, did an excellent job, her pleasant, clearly enunciated voice well intoned, her reading well paced and delivered with understanding and gentle emotion. Not a great differentiation between characters voices, but the speaker was always obvious.
The Hanged Man's Noose is a pleasant mystery, fun to read and to try to guess at the answers. My thanks to the rights holder for freely gifting me a complimentary copy, at my request, via Audiobook Boom. This could turn out to be an enjoyable series.
June 16, 2018
In Hanged Man’s Noose by Judy Penz Sheluk, Emily Garland has spent several years working as a freelance journalist focusing on real estate issues when she gets a special job offer from Michelle Ellis, her boss. She ends up leaving her home of Toronto to a small town 90 minutes northeast of Toronto named Lount’s Landing and taking on editorship of the local paper, Inside the Landing. However, her real assignment is to secretly investigate developer Garrett Stonehaven, whom Emily secretly hates for what she is certain is unproven corruption. Now, in Lount’s Landing, Stonehaven seems to be up to no good for another time. He has bought the old elementary school and plans to turn it into a big box store, but is he up to something else?
Read the rest of this review and other fun, geeky articles at Fangirl Nation
Read the rest of this review and other fun, geeky articles at Fangirl Nation
March 9, 2018
Investigative freelance writer Emily Garland is thrilled to be given a regular assignment to edit a new magazine called Inside the Landing. It requires her to move to a place called Lount's Landing a small town outside of Toronto. The sweet deal includes a renovated Victorian home and a real paycheck. The one caveat is she has to dig into what mega-developer Garrett Stonehaven is up to in the town.
It's a great plan because she has long hated Garrett Stonehaven and believed he was responsible for her mother's untimely death. Off she goes to Lount's Landing and lands in the middle of some long-dead secrets and lies.
An intriguing game of cross and double cross takes place and Emily weaves her way through the intrigue. The Hanged Man's Noose is an interesting first book in the series.
It's a great plan because she has long hated Garrett Stonehaven and believed he was responsible for her mother's untimely death. Off she goes to Lount's Landing and lands in the middle of some long-dead secrets and lies.
An intriguing game of cross and double cross takes place and Emily weaves her way through the intrigue. The Hanged Man's Noose is an interesting first book in the series.
June 3, 2020
This is a very well-written novel set in a fictional town outside of Toronto. Emily, an editor for a real estate magazine is asked to take an assignment in town to find out why a real estate developer, Garret Stonehaven was interested in the small community. Immediately, Emily is landed in intrigue and murder. Secrets are slowly revealed.
This novel kept me guessing until the very end. While the end result did not surprise me, I had not figured out the plot by the time of the reveal, so well done there!
The narration was great, nice voice
I very much enjoyed listening to the novel and look forward to listening or reading more by this author.
This novel kept me guessing until the very end. While the end result did not surprise me, I had not figured out the plot by the time of the reveal, so well done there!
The narration was great, nice voice
I very much enjoyed listening to the novel and look forward to listening or reading more by this author.
January 19, 2019
Judy Penz Sheluk really impressed me with The Hanged Man's Noose. I did not guess who the killer was. It is a talented author who does not make the killer obvious, and stumps the readers/listeners. I found myself pulled into the story from the very beginning. The imagery and details in the book are wonderful, the characters are well developed and the plot is complex. This book is both a standalone listen and part of a series. Suzanne T Fortin did a good performance with this book. Some of the characters had distinguishable voices, which I love. I will definitely listen to more books by this author and narrator.
June 2, 2019
I enjoyed this Canadian author’s story of two heroine mystery solvers. Emily and Arabella make a formidable mystery solving pair given their unique skill sets; Emily is a reporter and Arabella an expert in antiquities. It’s an interesting combo and certainly a different duo than I’ve read before. At times I did had to rewind (audiobook) as I wanted to clarify who did what, said what, as the cast of characters is large. But the author wears it all together with a few twists and turns along the way.
July 10, 2018
GREAT Emily Garland mystery, it was awesome, loved it!
I really enjoyed the character Emily, and the struggles she faced. Great plot, lots of action, suspense & drama, the narration was amazing, I'm really happy with this one, and would welcome the opportunity to listen to more of Judy's books :) Great job! Definitely recommend it!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
I really enjoyed the character Emily, and the struggles she faced. Great plot, lots of action, suspense & drama, the narration was amazing, I'm really happy with this one, and would welcome the opportunity to listen to more of Judy's books :) Great job! Definitely recommend it!
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
April 6, 2020
I totally enjoyed this first in the series. I liked how it started from the viewpoint of one character, then we get to see a second character's view. The mystery keeps you guessing, as Emily questions the death of a store owner who was against plans for a big box store, it leads you deeper and uncovers layers of deception that leads to the past. Likable characters, great scene setting and a twisting mystery. I will continue on with this series.
June 16, 2018
I was gifted this book with the understanding that I would leave an honest review.
I enjoyed this book. Judy Penz Sheluk is new to me but I found her book very interesting with many twists so I didn't quickly figure out what was going on. I did have a hard time at first keeping track of everyone. There are a lot of characters but about 1/4 of the way into the book I was doing fine. I really enjoyed Suzanne T. Fortin's narration of this story. She does a nice job of keeping you listening. The lead character is a journalist Emily Garland and you quickly get to like her. I really enjoyed the addition of descriptions of food and drinks. The lovely shortbread cookies that Arabella Carpenter, Glass Dolphin Antiques shop owner loves is one example and Judy Penz Sheluk has the recipe on her website so cool. She also has the signature drink The Treasontini, a blueberry martini, the drink on the cover and then the nacho's " Full Noose Nachos: are also included. So much fun.
I enjoyed this book. Judy Penz Sheluk is new to me but I found her book very interesting with many twists so I didn't quickly figure out what was going on. I did have a hard time at first keeping track of everyone. There are a lot of characters but about 1/4 of the way into the book I was doing fine. I really enjoyed Suzanne T. Fortin's narration of this story. She does a nice job of keeping you listening. The lead character is a journalist Emily Garland and you quickly get to like her. I really enjoyed the addition of descriptions of food and drinks. The lovely shortbread cookies that Arabella Carpenter, Glass Dolphin Antiques shop owner loves is one example and Judy Penz Sheluk has the recipe on her website so cool. She also has the signature drink The Treasontini, a blueberry martini, the drink on the cover and then the nacho's " Full Noose Nachos: are also included. So much fun.
April 4, 2019
This is a thought provoking, twisty, character driven mystery set in a small town near Toronto. It has to do with the revitalization of Main Street and a complex scheme that has its roots in the past. I was continually surprised as I tried on then rejected possible murderers. Judy Penz Sheluk has written a book worthy of any book club. There's a host of characters and no one is who you might think at first meeting. You need to read this one with a score card. I enjoyed it!
August 18, 2021
I am a sucker for a good small town murder mystery and this is a superb one. Great characters, well constructed mystery, unexpected culprit, a little love interest and a nice ending. I loved it. Narration is excellent bringing the story to life. I look forward to listening to the follow up. I received a complimentary copy from the author and am leaving a honest voluntary review.
November 16, 2019
I loved it!There was so many twists and turns I could barely keep up!The characters were well developed and I look forward to reading more with Emily in bk 2. Suzanne T. Fortin was a very good narrator.I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and have voluntarily left this review.'
December 23, 2020
A good start to a new series with lots of potential. I like the main characters and will enjoy getting to know them better. I look forward to reading of their further adventures. I won the ebook in a contest. Thanks to the author for allowing me to start with the first of the series.
February 17, 2019
An intriguing mystery! Once you start reading "The Hanged Man's Noose" you won't want to put the book down!
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October 2, 2021Categories
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Glass Dolphin Mystery
Mystery & Detective
Miniseries
A Glass Dolphin Mystery
March 12, 2018
This was an absolutely delightful read. I really enjoyed reading about all the characters in this small town. This mystery was well set up, with enough twists to keep me guessing. 4.5 stars. Looking forward to reading Glass Dolphin Mystery #2!
December 17, 2019
Emily Garland has a personal reason for agreeing to a new assignment in Lount's Landing, where her boss wants her to keep an eye on the activities on Garrett Stonehaven. She heads to the small village outside Toronto as the new editor of a local magazine acquired recently by the company she works for.
Stonehaven has bought the old school building, initially to turn into a condo, but it soon transpires he has other plans. And that is when those who were once in support of his condo plans now start to voice concerns now opposing Stonehaven's "megabox" development. When one of the more vocal dissidents dies from a peanut allergy, then suspicions are raised. His allergy was well-known and he always carried an epi-pen, so how could his death have occurred?
By now, Emily has befriended Arabella Carpenter, owner of the antiques stores - The Glass Dolphin - as well as Johnny Porter, a key advocate for ensuring prosperity on the retailers on Main St. A second death only adds fuel to the rumours that something more nefarious is in play.
Together, Emily and Arabella ask questions, and when the answers are not forthcoming, a look into the past of some of the residents suggest that Stonehaven is up to his old tricks.
There are links aplenty, secrets galore, and a plethora of clues to follow as the duo's investigations truly takes hold.
Their blossoming friendship hits a few bumps as both Emily and Arabella have their own stories to tell, yet the determination - come what may - to get to the bottom of the deaths (of which there are more to come) leads them into danger.
The story develops at a good pace with an intriguing mix of characters - loyal friends, gossips, old-timers with hidden depths - all of whom are both entertaining and worthy of their places in the story.
A great mystery to follow, with plenty of clues to solve on the way. The ending works well, and leaves scope for more adventures. Another great mystery from Judy Penz Shulak, and the start of what will undoubtedly be an amazing series.
I received a copy from the author and have made the review voluntarily.
Stonehaven has bought the old school building, initially to turn into a condo, but it soon transpires he has other plans. And that is when those who were once in support of his condo plans now start to voice concerns now opposing Stonehaven's "megabox" development. When one of the more vocal dissidents dies from a peanut allergy, then suspicions are raised. His allergy was well-known and he always carried an epi-pen, so how could his death have occurred?
By now, Emily has befriended Arabella Carpenter, owner of the antiques stores - The Glass Dolphin - as well as Johnny Porter, a key advocate for ensuring prosperity on the retailers on Main St. A second death only adds fuel to the rumours that something more nefarious is in play.
Together, Emily and Arabella ask questions, and when the answers are not forthcoming, a look into the past of some of the residents suggest that Stonehaven is up to his old tricks.
There are links aplenty, secrets galore, and a plethora of clues to follow as the duo's investigations truly takes hold.
Their blossoming friendship hits a few bumps as both Emily and Arabella have their own stories to tell, yet the determination - come what may - to get to the bottom of the deaths (of which there are more to come) leads them into danger.
The story develops at a good pace with an intriguing mix of characters - loyal friends, gossips, old-timers with hidden depths - all of whom are both entertaining and worthy of their places in the story.
A great mystery to follow, with plenty of clues to solve on the way. The ending works well, and leaves scope for more adventures. Another great mystery from Judy Penz Shulak, and the start of what will undoubtedly be an amazing series.
I received a copy from the author and have made the review voluntarily.
January 25, 2018
This book was good, however, I did have to reread a few chapters as the story lines got a bit too mixed up. It kind of felt like they were trying to add extra mystery to an already mysterious plot line, most were open ended or just left you at a dead in, maybe it will be cleared up in any follow up books but it is something I noticed.
The ending is good but it also felt somewhat flat for some reason, some actions by characters were just silly and unrealistic, and the whole story being handed over like a classic who done it, is a little odd with how the story line was handled up to this point in the book. I just found it a bit flat overly dramatic and somewhat unoriginal.
I do have to say the ending aside I did enjoy the story and how all the new characters were introduced I found the story has a sweet and cozy charm about it, I do wish that the town and character’s could be fleshed out a bit more then what we get in this book. I know I am interested in seeing more from this writer.
Regarding the narration, I liked it and found other then some of the male voices not having a lot of range, and some of the female tones being a little forced like being rude or angry was not something the narrater could call on at will with ease, it was good, I do love how she handled the main characters male and female, and the rumors in the town.
I got this copy for free, in return for my honest review.
The ending is good but it also felt somewhat flat for some reason, some actions by characters were just silly and unrealistic, and the whole story being handed over like a classic who done it, is a little odd with how the story line was handled up to this point in the book. I just found it a bit flat overly dramatic and somewhat unoriginal.
I do have to say the ending aside I did enjoy the story and how all the new characters were introduced I found the story has a sweet and cozy charm about it, I do wish that the town and character’s could be fleshed out a bit more then what we get in this book. I know I am interested in seeing more from this writer.
Regarding the narration, I liked it and found other then some of the male voices not having a lot of range, and some of the female tones being a little forced like being rude or angry was not something the narrater could call on at will with ease, it was good, I do love how she handled the main characters male and female, and the rumors in the town.
I got this copy for free, in return for my honest review.
March 28, 2016
A tweet about an interview with editor Lourdes Venard led me to freelance reporter and author Judy Penz Sheluk’s blog site and the discovery of her debut mystery novel, THE HANGED MAN’S NOOSE.
These opening lines of the book’s synopsis hooked me:
Journalist Emily Garland lands a plum assignment as the editor of a niche magazine based
in Lount’s Landing, a small town named after a colorful 19th century Canadian traitor.
As the novel unfolded, I quickly developed a liking for the protagonist, freelance writer Emily Garland, and felt the tension in her emotional and tentative decision to relocate for a new job assignment. The history of Lount’s Landing is presented with an intrigue that supports the mystery behind events occurring in the small town.
Emily’s assignment to expose a real estate developer’s intentions soon serves to introduce several well-developed characters with a kaleidoscope of conflicting personalities. As the vibrant colors of splintered-glass events swirl around the town, in and out of a cozy tavern with its own infamous history, the wounds cut deep.
And then, as the expression goes, murder happens.
I admit to thinking, more than once while reading The Hanged Man's Noose, “I didn’t see that coming.” Sheluk holds the reader captive with hints of secrets and promises of revelations that, when finally unveiled, do not disappoint.
These opening lines of the book’s synopsis hooked me:
Journalist Emily Garland lands a plum assignment as the editor of a niche magazine based
in Lount’s Landing, a small town named after a colorful 19th century Canadian traitor.
As the novel unfolded, I quickly developed a liking for the protagonist, freelance writer Emily Garland, and felt the tension in her emotional and tentative decision to relocate for a new job assignment. The history of Lount’s Landing is presented with an intrigue that supports the mystery behind events occurring in the small town.
Emily’s assignment to expose a real estate developer’s intentions soon serves to introduce several well-developed characters with a kaleidoscope of conflicting personalities. As the vibrant colors of splintered-glass events swirl around the town, in and out of a cozy tavern with its own infamous history, the wounds cut deep.
And then, as the expression goes, murder happens.
I admit to thinking, more than once while reading The Hanged Man's Noose, “I didn’t see that coming.” Sheluk holds the reader captive with hints of secrets and promises of revelations that, when finally unveiled, do not disappoint.
September 9, 2015
Loved this debut novel! I couldn't put it down - read it in 2 days. One murder was enough, but when people start getting bumped off left and right, well it starts to read like a Clue game. Everybody is a suspect! And of course, the murderer is never the one you would expect... The characters are very well developed - I liked Emily a lot. She was fresh-faced and ambitious without being too naïve. Sheluk demonstrates great use of voice, not an easy feat when switching character POVs. The chapters are very short - which I liked. Kept the pace moving quickly. My only complaint is that it ended! Can't wait for the next one! (hint, hint Judy!)
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