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Canterville Book Shop #1
A Dickens of a Murder
Christmas at Canterville!
Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville are surprised to find a dead man on their roof in the midst of rushing to open the Canterville Book Shop in time for the holidays. And not just any dead man – Ebenezer Hart – the man who opposed the book shop opening in Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia.
What might be more surprising is when Daniel Fairhaven – Lisa’s ex – turns up at the door of the three-story Victorian house to head the police investigation. She hasn’t seen him in years but the sparks start to fly as soon as they are in the same room together.
Simon and Lisa are obviously the best suspects for the murder. Each of them had something to gain by Hart’s death. Then an attempt on Simon’s life throws that theory into a tailspin.
But the biggest surprise yet comes when the ghost of Charles Dickens turns up to help Lisa with the murder investigation – and writing the mystery novel she has been working on for years.
Without a doubt, Daniel and Dickens in Lisa’s life means trouble. And there’s still the matter of trying to get the book shop open with a killer on their heels.
Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville are surprised to find a dead man on their roof in the midst of rushing to open the Canterville Book Shop in time for the holidays. And not just any dead man – Ebenezer Hart – the man who opposed the book shop opening in Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia.
What might be more surprising is when Daniel Fairhaven – Lisa’s ex – turns up at the door of the three-story Victorian house to head the police investigation. She hasn’t seen him in years but the sparks start to fly as soon as they are in the same room together.
Simon and Lisa are obviously the best suspects for the murder. Each of them had something to gain by Hart’s death. Then an attempt on Simon’s life throws that theory into a tailspin.
But the biggest surprise yet comes when the ghost of Charles Dickens turns up to help Lisa with the murder investigation – and writing the mystery novel she has been working on for years.
Without a doubt, Daniel and Dickens in Lisa’s life means trouble. And there’s still the matter of trying to get the book shop open with a killer on their heels.
260 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 3, 2015
34 people are currently reading
484 people want to read
About the author
Joyce Lavene
78 books646 followersaka Elyssa Henry and Joye Ames, J.J. Cook, and Ellie Grant
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
Joyce Lavene and Jim Lavene are a wife and husband team who have written and published more than 70 books since 1999. They live in North Carolina with their family and enjoy cooking, photography and ghost hunting.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
January 22, 2020
4 ½ stars
I absolutely loved this book, the main character Lisa is smart self reliant woman along with the endearing habit of doing exactly what she just told herself that she would not do. Simon her partner in the bookstore, could have been stuffy if written just slightly differently, instead he is the perfect compliment to Lisa. Both are great lovers of all sorts of books.
Simon is never alone because he has his books.
Another thing I loved about the book was the setting, the Victorian house being converted into a bookstore was just great. The first library I'd ever been in as a kid was located in a large Victorian and I spent many happy hours there. I wish I could physically visit the Canterville Book Shop, I guess I'll just have to satisfy that wish with a reread.
The only bad thing I can say about the book is that the series has never been continued, I’ve read a number of books by the authors and this is far and above my favorite book of theirs.
Cozies Reading Challenge
I absolutely loved this book, the main character Lisa is smart self reliant woman along with the endearing habit of doing exactly what she just told herself that she would not do. Simon her partner in the bookstore, could have been stuffy if written just slightly differently, instead he is the perfect compliment to Lisa. Both are great lovers of all sorts of books.
Will you be all right alone?”
He bent and gently kissed my hand. “I am never alone, my dear. Enjoy yourself.”
Simon is never alone because he has his books.
Another thing I loved about the book was the setting, the Victorian house being converted into a bookstore was just great. The first library I'd ever been in as a kid was located in a large Victorian and I spent many happy hours there. I wish I could physically visit the Canterville Book Shop, I guess I'll just have to satisfy that wish with a reread.
The only bad thing I can say about the book is that the series has never been continued, I’ve read a number of books by the authors and this is far and above my favorite book of theirs.
Cozies Reading Challenge
October 26, 2015
Lisa Wellman loves books. For years she was a librarian for the Portsmouth Public Library but when personal tragedy as well as a wonderful opportunity changes her life, she is ready. Lisa joins with Simon Canterville to open a book shop in his wonderful old home while writing her novel in her spare time. What could be a better way to help her get through her mother's death, right? Well, that was before the dead body was found hanging from the roof. And if that wasn't enough, her ex husband is the lead detective on the case and Charles Dickens is a rather annoying distraction as well. Now Lisa has to help her ex-husband figure out who is trying to stop the shop from opening, work on getting the shop ready to open and help Charles Dickens finish his last novel.
This was such a delightful story! I loved all of the characters and it was wonderful to see guest stars from other series. I am really looking forward to seeing how the book shop works out for Lisa and Simon as well as seeing what happens with her novel. This one was especially touching for me as it was dedicated to Joyce. I think she would be thrilled to know Jim will continue the books. She loved words as much as we love reading them.
***I received an advance reader copy of the book in exchange for an honest review****
This was such a delightful story! I loved all of the characters and it was wonderful to see guest stars from other series. I am really looking forward to seeing how the book shop works out for Lisa and Simon as well as seeing what happens with her novel. This one was especially touching for me as it was dedicated to Joyce. I think she would be thrilled to know Jim will continue the books. She loved words as much as we love reading them.
***I received an advance reader copy of the book in exchange for an honest review****
October 26, 2015
As a librarian with the Portsmouth Public Library, Lisa Wellman indulged in her love of books and dreamed of writing her own novel. Then when circumstances changed in her personal life, she decided to embark on a business venture with one of her steady library customers, Simon Canterville, to open up The Canterville Book Shop, housed in his Victorian home. However, permits to open this shop within a mostly residential neighborhood were being hotly contested by Ebenezer Hart. So when a dead body is seen on the roof of Simon’s home, laid out in the position of the Tarot Card’s The Hanged Man, and the body turns out to be Ebenezer, suspicion immediately falls on Simon as the murderer. Lisa decides to help with the investigation to ensure that their joint business venture will go forward as planned, but what she doesn't count on is that the lead investigator would be her ex-husband, Daniel Fairhaven. Nor does she anticipate coming face to face with a resident ghost, Charles Dickens, who is determined to haunt her into finishing his last novel. And when it seems that Simon may be the next target, she and Daniel are more determined than ever to solve this mystery. This is the first book in a new series and as with the other series written by these authors is a joy to read. The main characters are interesting and the premise of the house and ghosts promises to have more stories in the future. Lisa seems totally distracted by the very physicalness of Daniel, even though their marriage was finished over twelve years ago but there remains a hint of a possible reunion in the future. I found it enjoyable to have cameo visits from literary characters from two of the author’s other series. It’s always fun to have cross-overs. The mystery itself had enough twists that although the reader may have their own suspicions, the actual solution remained a mystery until the end. I am looking forward to the further adventures of Lisa and Simon. Disclosure: I was provided with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to Jim and his family for continuing with the literary legacy that he and Joyce have provided for their dedicated readers throughout the years. Joyce, you will be missed, but your light will shine on in your stories.
October 31, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder, written by Joyce and Jim Lavene, is the first book in a new series, A Canterville Book Shop Mystery. The story line is set in Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia in a three story Victorian home owned by and elderly gentleman named Simon Canterville. His love for books provides him with a desire to open a bookstore within his home with the assistance of his partner, Liz Wellman. Liz and Simon met while she worked at the local library and became fast friends. Liz is offered the opportunity to become a partner in the bookstore while living in the third floor Turret room so she can work on the book she has desired to write. The problem arises when another resident in Olde Town objects to the opening of the bookstore and is then found dead on the roof of the Turret of Simon Canterville’s home. When the local police department arrives to investigate, the person investigating, Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, realizes his ex-wife, Liz Wellman is one of the parties involved. Joyce and Jim have laid out a well-developed story line with not only a murder but a paranormal effect, the presence of three cats and an English bulldog pup as well as a little romance too. If you have read any of the Lavene’s other series, you will definitely enjoy this book.
January 14, 2022
Love Lavene books
I have loved every book these authors wrote, and am delighted to find this series again! Great characters, lots of action, and a fun paranormal element.
I have loved every book these authors wrote, and am delighted to find this series again! Great characters, lots of action, and a fun paranormal element.
November 8, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder is the first book in the Canterville Book Shop series, and it is a home run.
Lisa loves all things books. When one of her library patrons Simon proposes that she leave her job at the library to be his partner in opening a book shop in his Old Towne Victorian home, she cannot help but be tempted. Their Thanksgiving weekend opening date is rapidly approaching, and they have a lot yet to do to get the store ready to go. They definitely do not have time to be the prime suspects in Ebenezer Hart’s death when his body is found on the roof of Simon’s house. As if finding Ebenezer there is not enough of shock, Lisa is stunned to find Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, her ex-husband, is in charge of the case. They have not seen each other since their divorce twelve years ago. When Simon finds himself in danger, Lisa cannot help but turn to Daniel for help. And to top things off, the ghost of Charles Dickens has appeared to Lisa and insists she help him complete his unfinished final work.
All of the characters are well developed. Lisa, though a bit down trodden after her mother’s death, still manages to be strong and inquisitive. Her past with Daniel, and their continued attraction to each other, provide interesting layers to their characters and pleasant tension. Simon is by far my favorite though. He is old fashioned (I love that he wears Victorian style clothing) and a bit eccentric, but I can already tell that he has a heart of gold. The more unsavory (in a good way) characters are sufficiently nasty without being off-putting. Charles Dickens provided plenty of “fish out of water” levity.
The mystery itself was well paced with enough red herrings and suspects to keep me guessing during most of the book. Even when I did focus my suspicions on whodunit, I was still at a loss about his/her motive until almost the very end.
The premise of the series, a book shop haunted by the ghosts of deceased authors, is a fun twist on ghosts in the paranormal cozy mystery genre. I can imagine almost endless possibilities for many future literary adventures, and I am glad to hear that Mr. Lavene plans to keep writing after the sudden death of Joyce. The paranormal and cozy mystery community has lost a dear and talented writer, and I take comfort in knowing that she will live on through the Lavene’s large body of work.
Dickens of a Murder is a delightful start to its series, one to be enjoyed during the Christmas season or any other time of year. It is a quick read and sparklingly enjoyable. I cannot wait to read more.
**I received a copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.**
Lisa loves all things books. When one of her library patrons Simon proposes that she leave her job at the library to be his partner in opening a book shop in his Old Towne Victorian home, she cannot help but be tempted. Their Thanksgiving weekend opening date is rapidly approaching, and they have a lot yet to do to get the store ready to go. They definitely do not have time to be the prime suspects in Ebenezer Hart’s death when his body is found on the roof of Simon’s house. As if finding Ebenezer there is not enough of shock, Lisa is stunned to find Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, her ex-husband, is in charge of the case. They have not seen each other since their divorce twelve years ago. When Simon finds himself in danger, Lisa cannot help but turn to Daniel for help. And to top things off, the ghost of Charles Dickens has appeared to Lisa and insists she help him complete his unfinished final work.
All of the characters are well developed. Lisa, though a bit down trodden after her mother’s death, still manages to be strong and inquisitive. Her past with Daniel, and their continued attraction to each other, provide interesting layers to their characters and pleasant tension. Simon is by far my favorite though. He is old fashioned (I love that he wears Victorian style clothing) and a bit eccentric, but I can already tell that he has a heart of gold. The more unsavory (in a good way) characters are sufficiently nasty without being off-putting. Charles Dickens provided plenty of “fish out of water” levity.
The mystery itself was well paced with enough red herrings and suspects to keep me guessing during most of the book. Even when I did focus my suspicions on whodunit, I was still at a loss about his/her motive until almost the very end.
The premise of the series, a book shop haunted by the ghosts of deceased authors, is a fun twist on ghosts in the paranormal cozy mystery genre. I can imagine almost endless possibilities for many future literary adventures, and I am glad to hear that Mr. Lavene plans to keep writing after the sudden death of Joyce. The paranormal and cozy mystery community has lost a dear and talented writer, and I take comfort in knowing that she will live on through the Lavene’s large body of work.
Dickens of a Murder is a delightful start to its series, one to be enjoyed during the Christmas season or any other time of year. It is a quick read and sparklingly enjoyable. I cannot wait to read more.
**I received a copy of this book from the authors in exchange for an honest review. The opinions are my own and not influenced in any way.**
November 5, 2015
This is the first in a new series,The Canterville Book Shop Series by Joyce and Jim Lavene. This is a wonderful start to a new series that I know will be extraordinary. I couldn't put it down once I started reading. This book is magical in every way. Not only do you have a murder mystery to solve but you have ghosts, adventure, and a little romance all rolled into one great read.
This book takes place in Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia where business partners Simon Canterville and Lisa Wellman are trying to get their book shop opened before Thanksgiving. With all of the rush to get everything organized they don't realize a dead body in on the roof of the three story Victorian home they are converting to their dream business. Of course the man on their roof is none other than Ebenezer Hart, the very man that Simon has been fighting in court to get zoning for their book shop. This puts a major kink in the plans to open since Simon is taken to the police station as the prime suspect. It just so happens that the Sheriff in charge is Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, Lisa's ex-husband that she hasn't seen for twelve years. WOW!!! Now, Miss Wellman not only has to get Simon out of police custody, get the shop ready for a maybe opening, and solve a murder but now she has her ex to deal with. What is Lisa to do? She is a Librarian that has always loved books. She is also starting her dream of writing and had done a lot of research on everything from poisons to weapons. Will this be enough to help Simon? Will it be enough to prevent something else bad from happening to The Canterville Book Shop? Oh and btw did I mention the house is haunted by the greatest writer of our time, Charles Dickens. He is here for Lisa's help. He wants her to help him finish his last work that he couldn't do in life because of a stroke. Gee whiz right? What else will Lisa have on her plate? And will she be able to help everyone or will she be the next victim?
I loved all the characters in this new series. Especially Puck, Maggie May, Truffles, and Wordsworth. I look forward too many more adventures with Simon and Lisa at The Canterville Book Shop. This book meant a lot to me knowing that it was dedicated to Joyce. Everyone in the Cozy book world has suffered a great loss. She was an amazing writer and made everyone she touched either in person or Facebook feel like they were her best friend. I am glad to have known her through Facebook and I am glad that her words will never die. They will be read by thousands now and in the future. God Bless
This book takes place in Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia where business partners Simon Canterville and Lisa Wellman are trying to get their book shop opened before Thanksgiving. With all of the rush to get everything organized they don't realize a dead body in on the roof of the three story Victorian home they are converting to their dream business. Of course the man on their roof is none other than Ebenezer Hart, the very man that Simon has been fighting in court to get zoning for their book shop. This puts a major kink in the plans to open since Simon is taken to the police station as the prime suspect. It just so happens that the Sheriff in charge is Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, Lisa's ex-husband that she hasn't seen for twelve years. WOW!!! Now, Miss Wellman not only has to get Simon out of police custody, get the shop ready for a maybe opening, and solve a murder but now she has her ex to deal with. What is Lisa to do? She is a Librarian that has always loved books. She is also starting her dream of writing and had done a lot of research on everything from poisons to weapons. Will this be enough to help Simon? Will it be enough to prevent something else bad from happening to The Canterville Book Shop? Oh and btw did I mention the house is haunted by the greatest writer of our time, Charles Dickens. He is here for Lisa's help. He wants her to help him finish his last work that he couldn't do in life because of a stroke. Gee whiz right? What else will Lisa have on her plate? And will she be able to help everyone or will she be the next victim?
I loved all the characters in this new series. Especially Puck, Maggie May, Truffles, and Wordsworth. I look forward too many more adventures with Simon and Lisa at The Canterville Book Shop. This book meant a lot to me knowing that it was dedicated to Joyce. Everyone in the Cozy book world has suffered a great loss. She was an amazing writer and made everyone she touched either in person or Facebook feel like they were her best friend. I am glad to have known her through Facebook and I am glad that her words will never die. They will be read by thousands now and in the future. God Bless
November 22, 2015
Review: A DICKENS OF A MURDER by JOYCE and JIM LAVENE
[Canterville Book Shop Book 1]
First in a brand-new series, the popular cozy authors Joyce and Jim Lavene bring life to a small and quiet community as eccentric bibliophile Simon Canterville and business partner, long-time librarian Lisa Wellman, open Simon's gorgeous Victorian home as a bookshop. But murder will out, esoecially when displayed on the turret roof, and too many suspects turn up the investigative heat. Certainly the reappearance of Lisa's hunky ex-husband as the investigator doesn't cool anything--nor does Charles Dickens' own ghostly appearance. A perfect Christmastide story!
Writing this review has a special poignancy for me. Joyce Lavene passed recently, in October 2015, at age 62. Although I was "late" to discover the many wonderful books Joyce and her husband Jim coauthored over the decades,through reading their mysteries I felt I had "come to know them." Just as Thomas Pynchon reintroduced me to literary fiction after decades of avoidance, so too did the extraordinary Lavene's instill in me a love of the cozy mystery sub-genre, with their compelling novel GIVE 'EM PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT.
Joyce Lavene, you will live on forever in the hearts of all your readers.
[Canterville Book Shop Book 1]
First in a brand-new series, the popular cozy authors Joyce and Jim Lavene bring life to a small and quiet community as eccentric bibliophile Simon Canterville and business partner, long-time librarian Lisa Wellman, open Simon's gorgeous Victorian home as a bookshop. But murder will out, esoecially when displayed on the turret roof, and too many suspects turn up the investigative heat. Certainly the reappearance of Lisa's hunky ex-husband as the investigator doesn't cool anything--nor does Charles Dickens' own ghostly appearance. A perfect Christmastide story!
Writing this review has a special poignancy for me. Joyce Lavene passed recently, in October 2015, at age 62. Although I was "late" to discover the many wonderful books Joyce and her husband Jim coauthored over the decades,through reading their mysteries I felt I had "come to know them." Just as Thomas Pynchon reintroduced me to literary fiction after decades of avoidance, so too did the extraordinary Lavene's instill in me a love of the cozy mystery sub-genre, with their compelling novel GIVE 'EM PUMPKIN TO TALK ABOUT.
Joyce Lavene, you will live on forever in the hearts of all your readers.
November 2, 2015
This is, hands down, the most difficult review I have ever written.The cozy mystery family has lost one of their shining stars. On October 20, Joyce Lavene departed this world, she left so quickly that no goodbyes were said.My thoughts and love go out to Jim, their children and their grandchildren. Joyce was not only an author, she was a friend. She loved her fans as we loved her.
Blessed Be Joyce, I miss you.
Lisa and Simon are rushing to get their new book shop ready and open by the start of the upcoming holidays. Things are going very well until a dead man is found on the roof of their house. Who, how , why? Who? is Ebenezer Hart. How? is under investigation. Why? Was it because he was against the book shop? Lisa and Simon were, of course, suspects, until someone tries to kill Simon. Add to the book shop, the murder, the last thing they need is for the ghost of Charles Dickens to pop in.
Again, I can't understand how the Lavenes do it. With over 60 books published, they just kept on writing, the stories seem endless.I have heard that Jim plans on finishing the books they had started, but I'm not sure about the future. Jim and the family need to get used to their new normal before decisions can be made.
Blessed Be Joyce, I miss you.
Lisa and Simon are rushing to get their new book shop ready and open by the start of the upcoming holidays. Things are going very well until a dead man is found on the roof of their house. Who, how , why? Who? is Ebenezer Hart. How? is under investigation. Why? Was it because he was against the book shop? Lisa and Simon were, of course, suspects, until someone tries to kill Simon. Add to the book shop, the murder, the last thing they need is for the ghost of Charles Dickens to pop in.
Again, I can't understand how the Lavenes do it. With over 60 books published, they just kept on writing, the stories seem endless.I have heard that Jim plans on finishing the books they had started, but I'm not sure about the future. Jim and the family need to get used to their new normal before decisions can be made.
November 5, 2015
What happens when you throw books, an author's ghost and murder into the mix? A crazy adventure with mayhem and even past love.
I love to read and therefore love bookstores, so of course the setting intrigued me. Then as I'm reading along a ghost appears, and not just any ghost, the ghost of Charles Dickens. Throw in the fact that Lisa's ex-husband is on the police force (and she hasn't seen him in about 12 years) and he is the one investigating this case, well there might be some sparks flying by the end.
This book kept me engaged and I really liked that they pulled in characters from 2 others series (and since they write so many books it isn't hard to do).
The mystery is definitely a mystery and with the somewhat limited cast of characters I suspected one character. When shown it couldn't be this character, my mind did wonder about another character but with nothing to put my finger on other than comments and reactions in different situations. (boy it is hard to be vague so as not to give away the killer!)
I'm hoping this series will continue, but with the death of Joyce, I'm not sure if Jim will continue this series. I do hope so because it seems like the bookstore is haunted and visited by many ghosts of authors past.
I love to read and therefore love bookstores, so of course the setting intrigued me. Then as I'm reading along a ghost appears, and not just any ghost, the ghost of Charles Dickens. Throw in the fact that Lisa's ex-husband is on the police force (and she hasn't seen him in about 12 years) and he is the one investigating this case, well there might be some sparks flying by the end.
This book kept me engaged and I really liked that they pulled in characters from 2 others series (and since they write so many books it isn't hard to do).
The mystery is definitely a mystery and with the somewhat limited cast of characters I suspected one character. When shown it couldn't be this character, my mind did wonder about another character but with nothing to put my finger on other than comments and reactions in different situations. (boy it is hard to be vague so as not to give away the killer!)
I'm hoping this series will continue, but with the death of Joyce, I'm not sure if Jim will continue this series. I do hope so because it seems like the bookstore is haunted and visited by many ghosts of authors past.
November 11, 2015
What can be better than a Christmas story set in a small town? Toss in the ghost of Charles Dickens and a dead man named Ebenezer and you’re all set for a charming tale of mystery, betrayal and a touch of romance.
This is a sweet, cozy mystery giving readers everything they’d want from a story. It can be read in one sitting with a nice hot cup of tea. A great stress reliever – a real “feel good” story.
Adding in Charles Dickens’ ghost is a clever and unique way to give this story an extra spark. The dialogue between Dickens and Lisa is amusing and sweet. Dickens pushing Lisa to concentrate on her writing as he criticizes it along the way, gave me many LOL hours.
The Lavenes outdid themselves with this one. I would love to see this series continue.
As many of you already know, Joyce Lavene passed away in October. This is a devastating loss to the literary world. I thank her husband, Jim, and their family for continuing to bring these books to her devoted fans. Joyce, please know you will always be missed, but your words will continue to keep us all entertained and happy.
FTC Disclosure: The authors provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
This is a sweet, cozy mystery giving readers everything they’d want from a story. It can be read in one sitting with a nice hot cup of tea. A great stress reliever – a real “feel good” story.
Adding in Charles Dickens’ ghost is a clever and unique way to give this story an extra spark. The dialogue between Dickens and Lisa is amusing and sweet. Dickens pushing Lisa to concentrate on her writing as he criticizes it along the way, gave me many LOL hours.
The Lavenes outdid themselves with this one. I would love to see this series continue.
As many of you already know, Joyce Lavene passed away in October. This is a devastating loss to the literary world. I thank her husband, Jim, and their family for continuing to bring these books to her devoted fans. Joyce, please know you will always be missed, but your words will continue to keep us all entertained and happy.
FTC Disclosure: The authors provided me with a copy of this book to review for this blog tour. This did not influence my thoughts and opinions in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
December 13, 2015
A DICKENS OF A MURDER by authors Joyce and Jim Lavene, is one of their most fun and original books to date!
I have loved every book by these authors since I read my first by them many years ago. I was so thrilled when I heard about this new Canterville Book Shop Mystery series! It more than lived up to my expectations!
Lisa Wellman, protagonist in this series, was simply a joy to read. Her way of coping with all the things going on around her was wonderful! Simon Canterville is a great character as well. I would love working in their book shop with them.
A series about bookstores, always wins me over, but one being haunted by authors who have passed? Spectacular! Wonderfully written and plotted as always by these amazing authors, A DICKENS OF A MURDER is a must read for cozy, para-cozy, and all mystery fans!
Do yourself a big favor, and grab up a copy of this book! You will not be disappointed!
I have loved every book by these authors since I read my first by them many years ago. I was so thrilled when I heard about this new Canterville Book Shop Mystery series! It more than lived up to my expectations!
Lisa Wellman, protagonist in this series, was simply a joy to read. Her way of coping with all the things going on around her was wonderful! Simon Canterville is a great character as well. I would love working in their book shop with them.
A series about bookstores, always wins me over, but one being haunted by authors who have passed? Spectacular! Wonderfully written and plotted as always by these amazing authors, A DICKENS OF A MURDER is a must read for cozy, para-cozy, and all mystery fans!
Do yourself a big favor, and grab up a copy of this book! You will not be disappointed!
November 6, 2015
I was so captivated by this book. Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville are strong characters that really pull you in to the story. Lisa is a writer and joins with Simon to open a book shop in the quaint little town of Portsmouth VA. Joyce and Jim paint a vivid picture of this town and you will feel like you are there. So when a body is found on the roof Lisa has to find out what happened before the killer finds the next victim. You won't be able to stop reading this book once you start.
From the beginning you could feel the sense of Christmas and the joy it brings. I enjoyed this book, it was hard for me to read it because it made me think of Joyce but in Honor of her I dived right in and am very glad I did.
From the beginning you could feel the sense of Christmas and the joy it brings. I enjoyed this book, it was hard for me to read it because it made me think of Joyce but in Honor of her I dived right in and am very glad I did.
October 31, 2015
A Dickens of A Murder had my attention from the beginning. I loved everything about this book; the setting, the characters, a cameo from one of my favorite characters. This book was a great and fun read. It would hold a special place in my heart. I couldn't help but think of Joyce the whole time I was reading. Maybe because it spoke of writers and their spirits. Joyce is definitely felt in this book. Highly recommend.
September 17, 2016
Not a bad little holiday read.
March 1, 2018
Ultimate Reading Challenge 2018. A book that involves a bookstore or library.
Simon Canterville of Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia has invited Lisa Wellman, an ex-librarian, to be his partner in his bookstore. He will live in the basement of his Victorian home and she will have the third floor turret for her bedroom with the books on the first and second floors. Simon has been collecting books for years and this has been his dream, but there are some in the neighborhood who fought his plan claiming a "business" should not be permitted in this residential neighborhood when in fact there are already lots of businesses in that very neighborhood. Then, one morning just weeks before they are due to open, they discover someone lying on the roof of their home. Police arrive and verify that it is the dead body of the one man who most strongly opposed Simon's bookstore. While attempting to discern who might have committed the murder Lisa is surprised to learn that their bookstore has a ghost. Moreover it is the ghost of a very well known author, Charles Dickens. He wants Lisa to help him to finish the work left incomplete by his sudden death. An interesting start to a series. I expect future books will portray other well known author ghosts.
Simon Canterville of Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia has invited Lisa Wellman, an ex-librarian, to be his partner in his bookstore. He will live in the basement of his Victorian home and she will have the third floor turret for her bedroom with the books on the first and second floors. Simon has been collecting books for years and this has been his dream, but there are some in the neighborhood who fought his plan claiming a "business" should not be permitted in this residential neighborhood when in fact there are already lots of businesses in that very neighborhood. Then, one morning just weeks before they are due to open, they discover someone lying on the roof of their home. Police arrive and verify that it is the dead body of the one man who most strongly opposed Simon's bookstore. While attempting to discern who might have committed the murder Lisa is surprised to learn that their bookstore has a ghost. Moreover it is the ghost of a very well known author, Charles Dickens. He wants Lisa to help him to finish the work left incomplete by his sudden death. An interesting start to a series. I expect future books will portray other well known author ghosts.
December 26, 2019
Lisa has left her job as a librarian to join her friend Simon in opening a bookstore in his beautiful home. Not only can she work with books all day, but also she’s been given a lovely turret room in which she can live rent free and work on writing her own books. Their dream seems to be coming true until a dead man appears on the roof of their home and Simon is under suspicion as the murderer. Lisa doesn’t think much more could go wrong until the ghost of Charles Dickens shows up and Simon is poisoned. She is determined to find the murderer before anyone else is hurt.
I loved the idea of this book - a beautiful bookstore run by two eccentric book lovers who are frequently visited by dead authors. Really interesting characters. Intriguing mystery though I guessed the id of the murderer fairly early on. Not very Christmas atmosphere, but I didn’t mind at all.
Sadly this will be the only book in the series because the authors passed away not long after this book was finished.
I loved the idea of this book - a beautiful bookstore run by two eccentric book lovers who are frequently visited by dead authors. Really interesting characters. Intriguing mystery though I guessed the id of the murderer fairly early on. Not very Christmas atmosphere, but I didn’t mind at all.
Sadly this will be the only book in the series because the authors passed away not long after this book was finished.
February 26, 2019
I love anything written by Joyce and Jim Lavene and will miss them so much. This is the first and probably the last in this Canterville Book Shop Mystery published in 2015 and I liked it so much. Lisa, a librarian and her friend Simon partner to open a book store in an old house. Lisa lives on the top floor which helps her out financial and a quiet place where she can write her first mystery and Simon lives in the basement with the bookstore in the rest of the house. Before they can open the store they find the body of Ebenezer Hart, who opposed the opening of the book store which puts Simon as their main suspect. And to complicate things the ghost of Charles Dickens decides to appear to Lisa and ask for help completing his last book that he never finished. This book is a delight. Great writing and fantastic characters that come in and out of the book store. Only wish there were more.
February 24, 2019
want to like Lavene's books, but I just don't and I'm not sure why. I like the ones written as J.J. Cook, but most of the ones under her real name are just sort of meh... for me. This was no exception. I liked the premise a lot, and for the most part I liked the characters. But there's just something about the way she writes her stories... Anyway, as I said I liked the concept, although Dickens desire to finish his last book is kind of old hat in general. But the mystery was interesting and I didn't have the perp pegged immediately, so that was a plus. In fact, when it was over, I was still waiting for the person I thought was guilty to have done something. Anyway, it was a quick read and I guess a cute story. Don't know if I'll do another Lavene or not however.
November 23, 2017
Sometimes I tire of the female in the books I read as putting themselves in harms way, interfering in investigations and so on. I did feel this way about Lisa through most of this book. I changed my mind because I liked the ending. I liked Simon. And I believe in Dickens advice, “Never leave anything undone in your life. If you do, it will come back to haunt you.”
April 12, 2022
Friendship with ghosts and books
The book. Is fast paced and very well written. I enjoyed the plot and characters. I hope to read more of this series .
The book. Is fast paced and very well written. I enjoyed the plot and characters. I hope to read more of this series .
December 30, 2016
A fun read!
January 5, 2020
I enjoyed this light mystery with a touch of the supernatural. Characters were engaging and the setting in Portsmouth, VA was nicely done. Lots of name-checking of favorite authors, mystery and others. I'd read more of the series.
November 16, 2015
A new cozy mystery by some favorite authors. Joyce and Jim Lavene have enchanted me yet again.
The combination of a librarian turned book shop owner is especially fun. I love books in all shapes and sizes and often dreamed of working in a library or owning my own book store. Imagine it, surrounded by millions of printed words, all those books begging to be read. I’d never get any work done. LOL
The main characters are Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville. There are many others too. These authors fill the pages with colorful characters that add dimension and bring the small township of Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia to life, and give us a few suspects.
Lisa left her job as librarian at the public library to pursue her dream of owning a book shop and trying to write that book she’s got in her head. In partnership with Simon Canterville, a quiet, shy man who has a penchant for vintage suits, the dream is finally happening. Their store, The Canterville Book Shop, is opening soon and just wait until you step inside.
The three story Victorian mansion, owned by Simon, is filled with beautiful antiques. The original architecture and design is glamorous and the rooms, named after different authors, contain thousands of books in all your most loved genres, especially mysteries. Who wouldn’t love to spend hours browsing all of them.
The new owners are in a pickle when a man is found dead, hanging on the roof of the book shop. Suspicion is squarely on Lisa and Simon when the body is discovered to be one Ebeneezer Hart. He’s been fighting the opening of their shop, claiming there are too many already.
Now you have it. The stage for the mystery has been set. Next comes a fun complication.
The responding officer at the crime scene is none other than Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, who happens to be Lisa’s ex-husband.
Now you’ll be wondering about Lisa and Daniel. Will he believe her innocence? Will old flames be rekindled? Nothing like a little romance to sweeten things up.
Watch for the surprise ghost, I mean guest. The books not called A Dickens of a Murder for nothing. The two D’s have Lisa going this way and that.
While this story takes place in the present, you can’t help but feel tones of the past, of a Victorian era. For one, there’s the title. Then there’s the mansion and Simon’s penchant for the old style suits. The timing did it too. Two weeks before Thanksgiving, a chill of snow is in the air. People are giddy with anticipation of the holidays to come. I felt like I could step into the past.
I’m always excited to start a new book by these two talented authors. I started reading A Dickens Of A Murder and was soon smiling in delight, meeting new characters, exploring a new town, and puzzling over the mystery.
Joyce and Jim did it again. Took me away from the humdrum of real life, allowing me to escape, if but for a brief time, through there writing.
I received this book for my honest review.
The combination of a librarian turned book shop owner is especially fun. I love books in all shapes and sizes and often dreamed of working in a library or owning my own book store. Imagine it, surrounded by millions of printed words, all those books begging to be read. I’d never get any work done. LOL
The main characters are Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville. There are many others too. These authors fill the pages with colorful characters that add dimension and bring the small township of Olde Town, Portsmouth, Virginia to life, and give us a few suspects.
Lisa left her job as librarian at the public library to pursue her dream of owning a book shop and trying to write that book she’s got in her head. In partnership with Simon Canterville, a quiet, shy man who has a penchant for vintage suits, the dream is finally happening. Their store, The Canterville Book Shop, is opening soon and just wait until you step inside.
The three story Victorian mansion, owned by Simon, is filled with beautiful antiques. The original architecture and design is glamorous and the rooms, named after different authors, contain thousands of books in all your most loved genres, especially mysteries. Who wouldn’t love to spend hours browsing all of them.
The new owners are in a pickle when a man is found dead, hanging on the roof of the book shop. Suspicion is squarely on Lisa and Simon when the body is discovered to be one Ebeneezer Hart. He’s been fighting the opening of their shop, claiming there are too many already.
Now you have it. The stage for the mystery has been set. Next comes a fun complication.
The responding officer at the crime scene is none other than Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, who happens to be Lisa’s ex-husband.
Now you’ll be wondering about Lisa and Daniel. Will he believe her innocence? Will old flames be rekindled? Nothing like a little romance to sweeten things up.
Watch for the surprise ghost, I mean guest. The books not called A Dickens of a Murder for nothing. The two D’s have Lisa going this way and that.
While this story takes place in the present, you can’t help but feel tones of the past, of a Victorian era. For one, there’s the title. Then there’s the mansion and Simon’s penchant for the old style suits. The timing did it too. Two weeks before Thanksgiving, a chill of snow is in the air. People are giddy with anticipation of the holidays to come. I felt like I could step into the past.
I’m always excited to start a new book by these two talented authors. I started reading A Dickens Of A Murder and was soon smiling in delight, meeting new characters, exploring a new town, and puzzling over the mystery.
Joyce and Jim did it again. Took me away from the humdrum of real life, allowing me to escape, if but for a brief time, through there writing.
I received this book for my honest review.
November 2, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder is the first book in the Canterville Book Shop Mystery series by Joyce and Jim Laveve. Lisa Wellman, a librarian who loves books, quit her job at the Portsmouth Public Library, and became a partner with a loyal library patron, Simon Canterville. Together, they opened a book shop in his wonderful old Victorian home in Olde Town Portsmouth, VA. Ebenezer Hart permits to open this shop within a mostly residential neighborhood were being hotly contested by Ebenezer Hart and several other residents of the neighborhood is hotly contesting the book shop making access to the required permits challenging. Shortly before the grand opening, Lois and Simon find a dead body lying on the roof of the house. Unfortunately, the body turns out to be Ebenezer positioned like The Hanged Man Tarot Card. Simon quickly becomes the primary “person of interest” in Ebenezer’s murder. The lead detective investigating the murder just happens to be Lisa’s ex-husband, Daniel Fairhaven. Just when Lisa can’t imagine things getting worse, she meets a resident ghost, Charles Dickens, who is determined to haunt her into finishing his last novel. Their interactions bring a delightful touch of laugh out loud, humor to the story. Simon is framed for the murder, an attempt on Simon's life, a fire at the bookstore, an unpleasant meeting with Ashcroft (Simon's son and the suspicion of others, leads Lisa to use her sleuthing skills to search for the killer with Daniel. I appreciated cameo visits from literary characters from other series written by the Lavenes. It was fascinating to recognize how skillfully Joyce and Jim integrated Charles Dickens' life and writing into their story line, including quotes from several of his books. They brought Charles Dickens him to "life". The conversations between Lois and Charles, two people from different centuries, added a charming touch.
This was such a captivating story! I loved Simon and Lois, and the fondness between them and their pets (cats-Truffles, Maggie May and Puck, along with bulldog pup, Wordsworth). I am looking forward to the further adventures of Lisa and Simon in the book shop and Lisa’s first novel. A delightful cozy mystery with a paranormal element, this is the perfect Christmastime book!
Disclaimer: I feel honored to have been given an Advanced Reading Copy by Jim Lavene dedicated to Joyce. I can picture Joyce smiling down from heaven as Jim and her family carry on her legacy. I received a copy of this book from the author to provide an unbiased review. That did not affect my ability to write and post an honest review. I believe anyone who appreciates a well written cozy mystery with a paranormal element and touch of humor will enjoy this book.
This was such a captivating story! I loved Simon and Lois, and the fondness between them and their pets (cats-Truffles, Maggie May and Puck, along with bulldog pup, Wordsworth). I am looking forward to the further adventures of Lisa and Simon in the book shop and Lisa’s first novel. A delightful cozy mystery with a paranormal element, this is the perfect Christmastime book!
Disclaimer: I feel honored to have been given an Advanced Reading Copy by Jim Lavene dedicated to Joyce. I can picture Joyce smiling down from heaven as Jim and her family carry on her legacy. I received a copy of this book from the author to provide an unbiased review. That did not affect my ability to write and post an honest review. I believe anyone who appreciates a well written cozy mystery with a paranormal element and touch of humor will enjoy this book.
November 7, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder by Joyce and Jim Lavene
The First Canterville Book Shop Mystery
The story starts in mid November as we meet Simon Canterville and Lisa Wellman, a unique duo who, while knowing each other for about a year, just became partners in a new venture-a book store. Looking at their Victorian shop they see a man and ponder what he's doing on their roof. While still attempting to figure out the truth of the matter the police arrive on the scene, but it's not just any patrol office, it's the Deputy Chief of Police, who happens to be Lisa's ex-husband. Unfortunately, the man on the roof is not the cable man, he's a dead man!
Joyce and Jim Lavene have brought another great group of characters to life in their new Canterville Book Shop Mystery series, featuring Simon Canterville, the slightly mysterious, steely, yet vulnerable, older partner and Lisa Wellman, the woman who needed a change after the loss of her mother and was willing to take a risk on a new venture. Lisa is down to earth, and I think mystery fans will find a distinct kinship in her, a former librarian who goes into partnership of a book store giving her extra time to write her own mystery novel! Sounds like heaven to many of us! Also endearing are the facts she remembers from her many classes about crime and how she relates them to her current situation. We have our nefarious characters as well; the ne'er do well son, the neighbors, and of course, our victim. The most unique character however, is the ghost of Charles Dickens. The Lavenes have a knack for making the paranormal normal. It seems almost natural that the ghost of Dickens would appear in a Victorian book shop, even if it is located it Portsmouth, Virginia, not England. What was even more normal was Lisa's initial reaction!
The Lavenes lay out a brilliant plan by telling us that many literary ghosts have appeared in the shop. In A Dickens of a Murder we meet and say goodbye to Charles Dickens. Now we're hooked-what literary figure will appear next?! Literary ghosts aside, there are other reasons I'm hooked on this new series. I want to return to the Canterville Book Shop to see how the store flourishes, to see how Lisa's book progresses, if her relationship with Daniel progresses, if the ghost hunters return, and yes, whose ghost will show up next!
The First Canterville Book Shop Mystery
The story starts in mid November as we meet Simon Canterville and Lisa Wellman, a unique duo who, while knowing each other for about a year, just became partners in a new venture-a book store. Looking at their Victorian shop they see a man and ponder what he's doing on their roof. While still attempting to figure out the truth of the matter the police arrive on the scene, but it's not just any patrol office, it's the Deputy Chief of Police, who happens to be Lisa's ex-husband. Unfortunately, the man on the roof is not the cable man, he's a dead man!
Joyce and Jim Lavene have brought another great group of characters to life in their new Canterville Book Shop Mystery series, featuring Simon Canterville, the slightly mysterious, steely, yet vulnerable, older partner and Lisa Wellman, the woman who needed a change after the loss of her mother and was willing to take a risk on a new venture. Lisa is down to earth, and I think mystery fans will find a distinct kinship in her, a former librarian who goes into partnership of a book store giving her extra time to write her own mystery novel! Sounds like heaven to many of us! Also endearing are the facts she remembers from her many classes about crime and how she relates them to her current situation. We have our nefarious characters as well; the ne'er do well son, the neighbors, and of course, our victim. The most unique character however, is the ghost of Charles Dickens. The Lavenes have a knack for making the paranormal normal. It seems almost natural that the ghost of Dickens would appear in a Victorian book shop, even if it is located it Portsmouth, Virginia, not England. What was even more normal was Lisa's initial reaction!
The Lavenes lay out a brilliant plan by telling us that many literary ghosts have appeared in the shop. In A Dickens of a Murder we meet and say goodbye to Charles Dickens. Now we're hooked-what literary figure will appear next?! Literary ghosts aside, there are other reasons I'm hooked on this new series. I want to return to the Canterville Book Shop to see how the store flourishes, to see how Lisa's book progresses, if her relationship with Daniel progresses, if the ghost hunters return, and yes, whose ghost will show up next!
March 23, 2016
A Dickens of a Murder(A Canterville Book Shop Mystery)
Authors: Joyce Lavene
Kindle Version
Lisa Wellman has just gone into business with Simon Canterville. They are opening a book shop in Simon's old, Victorian home. Their plans take a detour when Ebeneezer Hart, a man who had filed a petition against the shop opening in a residential area, is found dead, hanging from the roof. The evidence against her business partner mounts up quickly. Things are further complicated when the police officer who shows up first to the crime scene is Lisa's ex-husband, Daniel.
Can Lisa resist the charms of her hunky cop ex, while proving that her business partner didn't commit murder? Will the surprise late night intruder (that only Lisa can see) help or hinder her investigation?
This was a cute, fun read, despite some obvious plot holes and contrived situations. For example, a 911-operator would not hang up multiple times on a woman calling late at night to report an intruder in her home. People seeing a body hanging in a strange position from the roof of a house would not be standing around wondering if it was the cable guy -- they would call the police, knowing full well the man was dead. And a librarian would not tell a experienced detective that she knows as much about murder investigations as he does because she has attended mystery writer conventions. There were several eye-roll, facepalm moments for me while reading this book. Situations and dialogue that just wouldn't happen. I can suspend reality pretty easily while reading....I just can't kill it and bury it under a rock.
But....this is a cozy mystery, and they are meant to be cute, fun reads, not police procedurals or well-plotted masterpieces. The fun elements in the story got me past the facepalm moments for the most part. There were times when I wished I could tell the main character to shut up and stop acting so stupid. Attending mystery writer conventions does not make anyone an expert in murder investigation!
All in all, a cute, fun read. The writing and plot could have been better, but it didn't ruin my enjoyment of the book.
My rating: 6/10
Ages 10+
Authors: Joyce Lavene
Kindle Version
Lisa Wellman has just gone into business with Simon Canterville. They are opening a book shop in Simon's old, Victorian home. Their plans take a detour when Ebeneezer Hart, a man who had filed a petition against the shop opening in a residential area, is found dead, hanging from the roof. The evidence against her business partner mounts up quickly. Things are further complicated when the police officer who shows up first to the crime scene is Lisa's ex-husband, Daniel.
Can Lisa resist the charms of her hunky cop ex, while proving that her business partner didn't commit murder? Will the surprise late night intruder (that only Lisa can see) help or hinder her investigation?
This was a cute, fun read, despite some obvious plot holes and contrived situations. For example, a 911-operator would not hang up multiple times on a woman calling late at night to report an intruder in her home. People seeing a body hanging in a strange position from the roof of a house would not be standing around wondering if it was the cable guy -- they would call the police, knowing full well the man was dead. And a librarian would not tell a experienced detective that she knows as much about murder investigations as he does because she has attended mystery writer conventions. There were several eye-roll, facepalm moments for me while reading this book. Situations and dialogue that just wouldn't happen. I can suspend reality pretty easily while reading....I just can't kill it and bury it under a rock.
But....this is a cozy mystery, and they are meant to be cute, fun reads, not police procedurals or well-plotted masterpieces. The fun elements in the story got me past the facepalm moments for the most part. There were times when I wished I could tell the main character to shut up and stop acting so stupid. Attending mystery writer conventions does not make anyone an expert in murder investigation!
All in all, a cute, fun read. The writing and plot could have been better, but it didn't ruin my enjoyment of the book.
My rating: 6/10
Ages 10+
November 3, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder by Jim and Joyce Lavene is a humorous and enjoyable paranormal cozy mystery. Lisa Wellman and Simon Canterville are opening a book shop together in Simon’s beautiful old home in the Olde Towne section of Portsmouth, Virginia. It is two weeks until Thanksgiving and they are hoping to open the day after Thanksgiving. They had encountered some resistance from Ebenezer Hart (he took them to court), but they were both still expecting the shop to open on time. Until they discover a body on their roof.
The officer that responds to the scene is Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven. Daniel was actually married to Lisa twelve years ago (for about six months). Unfortunately, Simon seems to be the prime suspect in the murder because his alibi is Lisa (they were out walking). The victim turns out to be none other than Ebenezer Hart (you had to know that was coming). Lisa is determined to clear Simon’s name. Lisa has known Simon for years and knows he did not commit the crime. Lisa will get some help from unexpected source (who needs a favor). Who wanted Ebenezer Hart dead and why was he left on the roof of The Canterville Book Shop?
A Dickens of a Murder an enjoyable novel to read. I liked the characters, the beautiful setting, the animals with their literary names, and the paranormal element. I did find the mystery to be a little too easy to solve (I figured it out very early in the book), but it did not detract from my reading pleasure. What could be more wonderful that a bookshop in a beautiful old home! I give A Dickens of a Murder 4.5 out of 5 stars (I deducted a little because I was able to solve the murder mystery). I look forward to learning more about Lisa, Simon, and Daniel in the next book in the Canterville Book Shop Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of A Dickens of a Murder from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
The officer that responds to the scene is Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven. Daniel was actually married to Lisa twelve years ago (for about six months). Unfortunately, Simon seems to be the prime suspect in the murder because his alibi is Lisa (they were out walking). The victim turns out to be none other than Ebenezer Hart (you had to know that was coming). Lisa is determined to clear Simon’s name. Lisa has known Simon for years and knows he did not commit the crime. Lisa will get some help from unexpected source (who needs a favor). Who wanted Ebenezer Hart dead and why was he left on the roof of The Canterville Book Shop?
A Dickens of a Murder an enjoyable novel to read. I liked the characters, the beautiful setting, the animals with their literary names, and the paranormal element. I did find the mystery to be a little too easy to solve (I figured it out very early in the book), but it did not detract from my reading pleasure. What could be more wonderful that a bookshop in a beautiful old home! I give A Dickens of a Murder 4.5 out of 5 stars (I deducted a little because I was able to solve the murder mystery). I look forward to learning more about Lisa, Simon, and Daniel in the next book in the Canterville Book Shop Mystery series.
I received a complimentary copy of A Dickens of a Murder from the authors in exchange for an honest review.
November 6, 2015
A Dickens of a Murder is the first book in Joyce and Jim Lavene’s Canterville Book Shop Mystery series. This is an enjoyable read and a delightful story. The story and characters are well developed and kept me turning the pages to find out what would happen next. Cozy mystery readers will enjoy getting to know these new characters. There’s a murder, a ghost, and a little romance. I love that each of the chapters begins with a quote from Charles Dickens. One of the authors, Joyce Lavene, passed away suddenly last month and cozy mystery fans have lost a wonderful author. If you’re familiar with Joyce and Jims Lavene’s work, you will be able to feel the spirit of Joyce in this book.
For many years, Lisa Wellman, who loves books, was a librarian at the Portsmouth Public Library. Lisa also has a dream of one day writing her own novel. During her employment at the library, she met Simon Canterville, an elderly gentleman, who also loves books and wants to turn his three-story Victorian home into the Canterville Book Shop. Lisa suffers a personal tragedy and Simon makes her an offer she can’t refuse … become his partner and help him manage the shop. She will be able to live on the third floor of his home and be able to work on her novel during lulls at the shop. Lisa and Simon are rushing to get their shop ready and open by the day after Thanksgiving when a body is discovered on the roof just outside Lisa’s room. As Lisa’s luck would have it, her ex-husband, Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, assigns himself to the case. Ebenezer Hart, the man who was murdered, was opposing the opening of the shop in a mostly residential neighborhood and Lisa and Simon find themselves as suspects, until someone poisons Simon. As if all this isn’t enough, the ghost of Charles Dickens appears and wants Lisa to help him finish his book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
For many years, Lisa Wellman, who loves books, was a librarian at the Portsmouth Public Library. Lisa also has a dream of one day writing her own novel. During her employment at the library, she met Simon Canterville, an elderly gentleman, who also loves books and wants to turn his three-story Victorian home into the Canterville Book Shop. Lisa suffers a personal tragedy and Simon makes her an offer she can’t refuse … become his partner and help him manage the shop. She will be able to live on the third floor of his home and be able to work on her novel during lulls at the shop. Lisa and Simon are rushing to get their shop ready and open by the day after Thanksgiving when a body is discovered on the roof just outside Lisa’s room. As Lisa’s luck would have it, her ex-husband, Deputy Chief Daniel Fairhaven, assigns himself to the case. Ebenezer Hart, the man who was murdered, was opposing the opening of the shop in a mostly residential neighborhood and Lisa and Simon find themselves as suspects, until someone poisons Simon. As if all this isn’t enough, the ghost of Charles Dickens appears and wants Lisa to help him finish his book.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
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