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Reverend Annabelle Dixon #2
Murder at the Mansion
Murder. Mayhem. A madcap lady vicar.
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is the charming, slightly gauche, very tall, thirty-something vicar of St. Mary’s Church located in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England.
Recently appointed to her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less.
Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her quaint parish. Her visit to the latest newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and cake and pastry recipes, this humorous, cozy mystery is an excellent introduction to the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series.
Included in this book are recipes for:
– Wicked Walnut Cupcakes with Magnificent Maple Buttercream Frosting
– Beatific Baklava
– Chaste Chia Seed and Coconut Macaroons
– Angelic Almond Cupcakes and Abundant Almond Butter Frosting
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is the charming, slightly gauche, very tall, thirty-something vicar of St. Mary’s Church located in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England.
Recently appointed to her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less.
Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her quaint parish. Her visit to the latest newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and cake and pastry recipes, this humorous, cozy mystery is an excellent introduction to the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series.
Included in this book are recipes for:
– Wicked Walnut Cupcakes with Magnificent Maple Buttercream Frosting
– Beatific Baklava
– Chaste Chia Seed and Coconut Macaroons
– Angelic Almond Cupcakes and Abundant Almond Butter Frosting
188 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 24, 2015
1230 people are currently reading
1165 people want to read
About the author
Alison Golden
103 books332 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 221 reviews
March 7, 2016
Every once in a while, I feel the need to "unwind," mentally speaking, by reading something that doesn't challenge my brain cells. To be sure, I still prefer that it be in my favorite genre - murder mystery - but I want to be able to breeze through it somewhat mindlessly.
I've exhausted several series that filled that bill - such as the late Lilian Jackson Braun's Cat Who books and The Burglar Who/i> series by Lawrence Block. But as I finished up yet another dank, dark thriller - making it three or four in a row - I just couldn't face another one. What's a worn out reader to do?
The solution - this book - suddenly appeared in the list of freebies available at Amazon from one of the many daily services to which I subscribe (e.g., BookBub, BookGorilla, Lendle). Even though it's the second in the series, the premise sounded exactly like what I was looking for. For openers, it's short (175 pages); even if its awful, I reasoned, it won't take long to muddle my way through.
As it turns out, it's exactly what the book doctor ordered; I enjoyed it enough that I'm looking forward to the next, Body in the Woods. As the subtitle notes (in addition to being dubbed a "cozy mystery,") the story centers on The Reverend Annabelle Dixon, an Anglican priest who's 5 feet 11 inches tall with a curiosity surpassing that of her church cat, Biscuit, and a borderline unhealthy love of sweets. She lives in the small village of Upton St. Mary, Cornwall, England, where she is the vicar of St. Mary's Church.
When Annabelle pays a visit to the parish's newest resident, Sir John Cartwright, she gets a nasty surprise: He's quite dead. Clearly, given the scenario, it's murder. So, she calls in the local police, which includes the single, attractive Inspector Mike Nicholls (for those who don't know, Anglican priests are free to marry, so the possibility of romance plays a bit of a role here as well).
From that point on, giving any details would spoil the whole thing (given that it's so short), so the only thing I'll say is that it's not necessary to read the first book to enjoy this one. Bottom line? You won't find anything remotely disturbing or psychologically deep here. It's just, well, cozy - with a touch of whimsy thrown in. The last part of the book includes a few recipes for sweets mentioned in the story (cupcakes, macaroons and baklava) as well as a goodly portion of the next one in the series.
I've exhausted several series that filled that bill - such as the late Lilian Jackson Braun's Cat Who books and The Burglar Who/i> series by Lawrence Block. But as I finished up yet another dank, dark thriller - making it three or four in a row - I just couldn't face another one. What's a worn out reader to do?
The solution - this book - suddenly appeared in the list of freebies available at Amazon from one of the many daily services to which I subscribe (e.g., BookBub, BookGorilla, Lendle). Even though it's the second in the series, the premise sounded exactly like what I was looking for. For openers, it's short (175 pages); even if its awful, I reasoned, it won't take long to muddle my way through.
As it turns out, it's exactly what the book doctor ordered; I enjoyed it enough that I'm looking forward to the next, Body in the Woods. As the subtitle notes (in addition to being dubbed a "cozy mystery,") the story centers on The Reverend Annabelle Dixon, an Anglican priest who's 5 feet 11 inches tall with a curiosity surpassing that of her church cat, Biscuit, and a borderline unhealthy love of sweets. She lives in the small village of Upton St. Mary, Cornwall, England, where she is the vicar of St. Mary's Church.
When Annabelle pays a visit to the parish's newest resident, Sir John Cartwright, she gets a nasty surprise: He's quite dead. Clearly, given the scenario, it's murder. So, she calls in the local police, which includes the single, attractive Inspector Mike Nicholls (for those who don't know, Anglican priests are free to marry, so the possibility of romance plays a bit of a role here as well).
From that point on, giving any details would spoil the whole thing (given that it's so short), so the only thing I'll say is that it's not necessary to read the first book to enjoy this one. Bottom line? You won't find anything remotely disturbing or psychologically deep here. It's just, well, cozy - with a touch of whimsy thrown in. The last part of the book includes a few recipes for sweets mentioned in the story (cupcakes, macaroons and baklava) as well as a goodly portion of the next one in the series.
August 1, 2017
Rev. Annabelle Dixon, rector of the village Upton St. Mary in Cornwall may have had a wayward past but she loves administering to the flock of villagers now- just as much as she loves cupcakes. Her secretary and friend Philippa is only happy to keep Annabelle supplied with treats AND local gossip. Philippa is full of news about a newcomer who recently purchased a mansion on the outskirts of the village. Village gossip suggests the man is not a church-goer and he is involved in unsavory business practices. When Annabelle decides to call on John Cartwright she is pleasantly surprised to find a cheerful welcome. Though Sir John is not available to see her while he meditates, Annabelle decides to return later in the day. Upon arriving at the country house she hears a terrible scream from upstairs and soon discovers Sir John lying dead with an arrow through his chest. Who could have done that and why? Are the rumors true? Annabelle, with the help of her love interest, Inspector Nicholls, tries to figure out who killed Sir John.
This story kept my interest enough once the murder happened but it wrapped up too quickly and neatly. The primary mystery is impossible to solve because there aren't any suspects until late in the investigation. The reader is never really completely introduced to any of the quirky locals who surely must inhabit Upton St. Mary. This is book 2 of the series but Annabelle's first investigation is summarized and I didn't feel I was missing anything except a connection to the characters. There's a secondary mystery that is super obvious but it took Annabelle and Philippa the whole book to solve.
I liked Annabelle well enough. I didn't really get a sense of who she is except a cheerful village vicar. Her relationship with Inspector Nicholls is at the unrequited crush stage at the moment. They work together professionally and that's it so far. I didn't like the way Annabelle acted around the Inspector. I did like how he was willing to let her investigate with him without much protest. That is very unusual for a cozy mystery.
This is a lightish short book that will appeal to fans of super cozy mysteries and British television shows set in small villages. I didn't love it to want to read more in the series.
This story kept my interest enough once the murder happened but it wrapped up too quickly and neatly. The primary mystery is impossible to solve because there aren't any suspects until late in the investigation. The reader is never really completely introduced to any of the quirky locals who surely must inhabit Upton St. Mary. This is book 2 of the series but Annabelle's first investigation is summarized and I didn't feel I was missing anything except a connection to the characters. There's a secondary mystery that is super obvious but it took Annabelle and Philippa the whole book to solve.
I liked Annabelle well enough. I didn't really get a sense of who she is except a cheerful village vicar. Her relationship with Inspector Nicholls is at the unrequited crush stage at the moment. They work together professionally and that's it so far. I didn't like the way Annabelle acted around the Inspector. I did like how he was willing to let her investigate with him without much protest. That is very unusual for a cozy mystery.
This is a lightish short book that will appeal to fans of super cozy mysteries and British television shows set in small villages. I didn't love it to want to read more in the series.
September 9, 2023
Murder at the Mansion. I was a bit disappointed, I really enjoyed the first book. This book still follows Reverend Annabelle Dixon's adventure, now in Upton St Mary away from the city. As she was making her everyday task in greeting new comers, she stumbled into a crossbow and arrow murder. As nosy and investigative Annabelle was, she was able to help the detectives to connect the puzzles and solve the case. Jealousy and Love was the reason on why sir John Cartwright was murder.
Funny how Philippa accused Annabelle of Klepto. It was a light and fun read.
Funny how Philippa accused Annabelle of Klepto. It was a light and fun read.
December 22, 2016
E for Effort
No spoilers in this review. I wasn't impressed at all with this book. I found it facile and rather disjointed with the Vicar, the main protagonist somewhat of a caricature. The dialogue didn't ring true and the ending seemed contrived. The 'humour' that I was expecting just wasn't there and it was grossly overpriced for the length (which I should have noted before I bought.) And please, please, American authors, if you are setting your books in Britain, please use English spelling, which leads me to another jarring note, the authors kept referring to 'English' weather, 'English characteristics'. Would they do the same if the story were set in America? I think not. All-in-all, a very disappointing book and I doubt I'll buy another book by this author.
No spoilers in this review. I wasn't impressed at all with this book. I found it facile and rather disjointed with the Vicar, the main protagonist somewhat of a caricature. The dialogue didn't ring true and the ending seemed contrived. The 'humour' that I was expecting just wasn't there and it was grossly overpriced for the length (which I should have noted before I bought.) And please, please, American authors, if you are setting your books in Britain, please use English spelling, which leads me to another jarring note, the authors kept referring to 'English' weather, 'English characteristics'. Would they do the same if the story were set in America? I think not. All-in-all, a very disappointing book and I doubt I'll buy another book by this author.
March 4, 2018
Rev. Annabelle Dixon is the vicar in Upton St.Mary, a village in Cornwell in the southwestern corner of England. The area is lovely with grass and trees and fields and flowers. The townspeople knew each other quite well and could be very outspoken. “Whether it was the problematic pothole or controversial building extension, the traditional and proud villagers and very strong opinions and voiced them at every opportunity.”
One day, she heard of a new resident who moved into mansion just outside of town. Although nobody seems to have met him, it didn't stop the gossip, especially because a lot of young women were seen going into the house. Annabelle decided to go pay him a visit and welcome him.
The door was opened the beautiful young woman who said the owner, Sir John Cartwright, had just begun his daily meditation and would not be available for an hour. Annabelle said she would return but as she was leaving, she heard a bloodcurdling scream. She dashed upstairs with the young woman right behind her. She quickly determined from which room she thought the scream came but the door was locked. The young woman said she would go get a key and left. Meanwhile Annabelle pushed on the door and it opened. Sir John was lying on the floor in front of an open window with an arrow in his heart. The young woman did not return and Annabelle searched for her unsuccessfully. She then called the police.
The medical examiner said the man died a while before the scream. The search for the killer moves very slowly because of lack of evidence. During that time two beautiful, wealthy women come to town posing as tourists from France. They were checking on an investment but were quickly spotted as fakes because their French accent was so horrendous.
On the whole, the writing was good from the grammatical perspective. The characterizations left something to be desired. Rev. Annabelle should be an intelligent woman with a lot that of self-confidence. Instead which is around the inspector she comes across very differently. As she presents her ideas to the inspector, she sounds like insecure : “I mean, it's probably nonsense," Annabelle chuckled, "I'm sure just a silly idea, and I'm just wasting your time. I probably shouldn't even be bothering you right now." "And this is just a wild assumption, please ignore me if I'm being terribly ignorant." In a conversation with the church secretary, she said she didn't know what kleptomania meant.
If part of her mission is welcoming new people to the area, she should have made an effort to talked with the person who opened Cartwright door.
At another time, Talking to the inspector as he leaves, she says, “It might be worth knowing what people thought about him. We'll see what we can find out about his past, but sometimes people believing the rumor is as good as a motive.” If she was trying to help inspector, why didn't she tell him what she knew.
She keeps referring to her car as the blue miini. After we learn that's what she drives, why didn't she just call it the car.
One cute conversation: Do archers really exist? In abundance. I'm a persistent target of darting glances.
The short book ends with four pastry recipes.
One day, she heard of a new resident who moved into mansion just outside of town. Although nobody seems to have met him, it didn't stop the gossip, especially because a lot of young women were seen going into the house. Annabelle decided to go pay him a visit and welcome him.
The door was opened the beautiful young woman who said the owner, Sir John Cartwright, had just begun his daily meditation and would not be available for an hour. Annabelle said she would return but as she was leaving, she heard a bloodcurdling scream. She dashed upstairs with the young woman right behind her. She quickly determined from which room she thought the scream came but the door was locked. The young woman said she would go get a key and left. Meanwhile Annabelle pushed on the door and it opened. Sir John was lying on the floor in front of an open window with an arrow in his heart. The young woman did not return and Annabelle searched for her unsuccessfully. She then called the police.
The medical examiner said the man died a while before the scream. The search for the killer moves very slowly because of lack of evidence. During that time two beautiful, wealthy women come to town posing as tourists from France. They were checking on an investment but were quickly spotted as fakes because their French accent was so horrendous.
On the whole, the writing was good from the grammatical perspective. The characterizations left something to be desired. Rev. Annabelle should be an intelligent woman with a lot that of self-confidence. Instead which is around the inspector she comes across very differently. As she presents her ideas to the inspector, she sounds like insecure : “I mean, it's probably nonsense," Annabelle chuckled, "I'm sure just a silly idea, and I'm just wasting your time. I probably shouldn't even be bothering you right now." "And this is just a wild assumption, please ignore me if I'm being terribly ignorant." In a conversation with the church secretary, she said she didn't know what kleptomania meant.
If part of her mission is welcoming new people to the area, she should have made an effort to talked with the person who opened Cartwright door.
At another time, Talking to the inspector as he leaves, she says, “It might be worth knowing what people thought about him. We'll see what we can find out about his past, but sometimes people believing the rumor is as good as a motive.” If she was trying to help inspector, why didn't she tell him what she knew.
She keeps referring to her car as the blue miini. After we learn that's what she drives, why didn't she just call it the car.
One cute conversation: Do archers really exist? In abundance. I'm a persistent target of darting glances.
The short book ends with four pastry recipes.
August 18, 2019
Fun stuff
The main character, the Vicar, runs around her little parish in her Mini-Cooper, solving crimes.
She finds herself very interested in the DCI and sometimes this shades her judgement.
But rest assured she will solve the crime.
I almost forgot, her secretary, a finder of great gossip, also helps the Vicar find the answer.
Now, if only the Vicar wasn't so tempted by the sweet treats her secretary bakes all the time.
The main character, the Vicar, runs around her little parish in her Mini-Cooper, solving crimes.
She finds herself very interested in the DCI and sometimes this shades her judgement.
But rest assured she will solve the crime.
I almost forgot, her secretary, a finder of great gossip, also helps the Vicar find the answer.
Now, if only the Vicar wasn't so tempted by the sweet treats her secretary bakes all the time.
October 4, 2023
Murder at the Mansion by Alison Golden and Jaimie Vougeot is the 2nd book in the Reverend Annabelle Dixon Mystery series. Recently appointed as vicar of St. Mary's church in the village of Upton St. Mary, Reverend Annabelle Dixon comes across a murder when she visits a newcomer to the parish. A fun little mystery. Annabelle is smart and suitably poised to help with the investigation with her genuine interest and concern for her parishoners. A charming, light typically cozy mystery.
May 7, 2017
A very light, yet well put together tale. I liked Annabelle, the cupcake loving vicar, who is great at sleuthing. I couldn't figure out who killed the victim and the recipes for goodies at the end were a bonus.
June 7, 2020
Cozy Mysteries aren't my usual
I like that this series features a female vicar. And it was a nice way to c!ear my head for while more intense read.
I like that this series features a female vicar. And it was a nice way to c!ear my head for while more intense read.
September 5, 2021
A fun little one-day read. I liked reading about quirky vicar, Annabelle. Not a bad way to spend a rainy afternoon.
January 22, 2016
Fantastical Story The plot is very good. I didn't get it a 5-star because I noticed in the same paragraph a convoy of police cars set of into the dark night yet they arrived where they were going just as it was getting dark. I could understand this if they were going very far away but they did go far.
"Crikey!" "Golly gosh!" "dilly-dallied" Just some words I loved in the story :0) I myself use dilly-dallied often...lol My grandmother uses golly gosh often and well I don't know anyone that says Crikey but I still liked it.
The story has a lot of good charters. You were kept guessing "whodoneit" right up to the end. The charters are funny and witty. The cupcake stealing cat was a trip...(oops spoiler)
Of course I have to say would have liked to seen it a little longer. These cozy mysteries all seem to be short and sweet but it's more then a lot of them I have read.
I was very happy to see that it wasn't a book filled with religious jargon since it's a Vicar solving the crime with the inspector.
Great Cozy Mystery would highly recommend it to all cozy mystery lovers. Can't wait to read more from this author.
"Crikey!" "Golly gosh!" "dilly-dallied" Just some words I loved in the story :0) I myself use dilly-dallied often...lol My grandmother uses golly gosh often and well I don't know anyone that says Crikey but I still liked it.
The story has a lot of good charters. You were kept guessing "whodoneit" right up to the end. The charters are funny and witty. The cupcake stealing cat was a trip...(oops spoiler)
Of course I have to say would have liked to seen it a little longer. These cozy mysteries all seem to be short and sweet but it's more then a lot of them I have read.
I was very happy to see that it wasn't a book filled with religious jargon since it's a Vicar solving the crime with the inspector.
Great Cozy Mystery would highly recommend it to all cozy mystery lovers. Can't wait to read more from this author.
March 25, 2017
Some Kindle Unlimited, some freebies some freebies for signing up, With the Diana Hunter ones too short and no resolution at ends, Reverend Annabelle major plausibility issues etc, Inspector Graham is not the usual British mystery of at least some clues here and there and his attitude is rather unlikeable overall.
Diana Hunter Mystery - Hunted 1 - Snatched 2 - Stolen 3
Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mystery - Death at the Café 1 - Murder at the Mansion 2 - Body in the Woods 3 - Grave in the Garage 4
Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery The Case of the Screaming Beauty1 - The Case of the Hidden Flame 2 - The Case of the Fallen Hero 3 - The Case of the Broken Doll 4
Diana Hunter Mystery - Hunted 1 - Snatched 2 - Stolen 3
Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mystery - Death at the Café 1 - Murder at the Mansion 2 - Body in the Woods 3 - Grave in the Garage 4
Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery The Case of the Screaming Beauty1 - The Case of the Hidden Flame 2 - The Case of the Fallen Hero 3 - The Case of the Broken Doll 4
February 2, 2016
This was a great cozy mystery. The Vicar, Annabelle stumbles across a murder and she is unable to stop herself from trying to solve it. She spends so much time at the crime scene looking for that one elusive bit of evidence that will solve this murder.
A good read, the Vicar is wonderful and a very lovable character. The inspector is a nice addition, and one that catches Annabelle's attention. All in all this was a fun mystery that I read at one sitting. I joined the readers group so that I could get another book about Annabelle.
A good read, the Vicar is wonderful and a very lovable character. The inspector is a nice addition, and one that catches Annabelle's attention. All in all this was a fun mystery that I read at one sitting. I joined the readers group so that I could get another book about Annabelle.
February 4, 2017
A very light cozy mystery set in the rural Cornwall countryside. The main character is realistic and very likeable. If you prefer your murder mysteries with very little gore this is a story you will enjoy. It can be read on a lazy afternoon with ease.
I have rated this book 3 3/4 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
(We do not do just 1\2 we do 3\4 too)
I have rated this book 3 3/4 stars.
I obtained this book from Amazon in Kindle format.
(We do not do just 1\2 we do 3\4 too)
November 25, 2015
Another wonderful cozy with the Reverend Annabelle
I enjoyed this one as much as the first. I am so looking forward to the next in the series.
I enjoyed this one as much as the first. I am so looking forward to the next in the series.
January 19, 2018
Delightful read. A real cozy mystery with fun and laughter.
April 19, 2020
Murder at the Mansion:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 2: Murder at the Mansion by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Down to earth colorful characters,small town rumors, vivid and at times flowery descriptions, a elaborate murder mystery, and a hint of romance.
Trouble arises when Annabelle Dixon goes to Woodlands Manor to welcome Sir John Cartwright to the Upton ST. Mary Parish only to find him dead in his bedroom with a arrow in his heart and a mysteriously disappearing girl necessitating the involvement of the local laid back, mischievous Constable Jim Raven and Truro's Inspector Mike Nicholls.
Body in the Woods:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 3:Body in the Woods by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Eclectic characters like the outspoken Phillipa, the socially awkward anthropologist Dr.Robert Brownson, the easily irritated Inspector Nicholls, and the dessert loving, curious and at times persistent Reverend add color to the pages filled with rambling descriptions and conversations,multiple mysteries which are entwined with multiple love triangles, a murder, and a love match.
When eight year old Dougie Dewar trips over a skeleton in the woods of Upton ST. Mary, Detective Mike Nicholls tries to keep the quick witted Reverend Annabelle away from the investigation but town gossip situates her perfectly to solve the twenty year old murder case.
Grave in the Garage:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 4: Grave in the Garage by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Suspenseful and action packed involving a few twist, puppies, and some surprises. As Reverend Annabelle laments the reduction in church funds and her friendship with Inspector Mike deepens, Phillia's matchmaking escalates, and the village of Upton ST. Mary experiences another murder as well as a secret gambling ring.
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 2: Murder at the Mansion by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Down to earth colorful characters,small town rumors, vivid and at times flowery descriptions, a elaborate murder mystery, and a hint of romance.
Trouble arises when Annabelle Dixon goes to Woodlands Manor to welcome Sir John Cartwright to the Upton ST. Mary Parish only to find him dead in his bedroom with a arrow in his heart and a mysteriously disappearing girl necessitating the involvement of the local laid back, mischievous Constable Jim Raven and Truro's Inspector Mike Nicholls.
Body in the Woods:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 3:Body in the Woods by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Eclectic characters like the outspoken Phillipa, the socially awkward anthropologist Dr.Robert Brownson, the easily irritated Inspector Nicholls, and the dessert loving, curious and at times persistent Reverend add color to the pages filled with rambling descriptions and conversations,multiple mysteries which are entwined with multiple love triangles, a murder, and a love match.
When eight year old Dougie Dewar trips over a skeleton in the woods of Upton ST. Mary, Detective Mike Nicholls tries to keep the quick witted Reverend Annabelle away from the investigation but town gossip situates her perfectly to solve the twenty year old murder case.
Grave in the Garage:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 4: Grave in the Garage by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Suspenseful and action packed involving a few twist, puppies, and some surprises. As Reverend Annabelle laments the reduction in church funds and her friendship with Inspector Mike deepens, Phillia's matchmaking escalates, and the village of Upton ST. Mary experiences another murder as well as a secret gambling ring.
July 24, 2023
An unusual murder weapon makes for a great story and I loved it. This is a fun, light hearted cozy mystery series that is turning out to be quite charming. I just wish they were slightly longer because once I started listening I didn't stop until the killer was found. This is the second book in the series and Reverend Annabelle has moved to a sleep Cornwall village, which proves to be anything but sleepy with a murder to solve, actually she had to cases to solve. The main case (the murder) was interesting with a number of twists and the side case added some humour, as it had me chuckling. I like the characters and the fact that even though the main character is a vicar, the author isn't using it to preach at you. A fun series that you can even listen too with little ears around. Look forward to the next mystery.
When a stranger moves to the small village of Upton St.Mary Annabelle rushes over to welcome the new comer. Instead she stumbles over a dead body, a disappearing assistant, a scream from an already dead man and a locked room mystery. Can Annabelle find the answers to the many questions and in the process find a killer?
I liked the narrator. She used her voice well to bring the characters to life and give them there own voice.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
When a stranger moves to the small village of Upton St.Mary Annabelle rushes over to welcome the new comer. Instead she stumbles over a dead body, a disappearing assistant, a scream from an already dead man and a locked room mystery. Can Annabelle find the answers to the many questions and in the process find a killer?
I liked the narrator. She used her voice well to bring the characters to life and give them there own voice.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntarily left this review.
August 27, 2017
This is the 2nd book. I read the prequel to this series
Another quick witty read great character s loved the story. I would def read the rest of this series.
Murder. Mayhem. A madcap lady vicar.
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is the charming, slightly gauche, very tall, thirty-something vicar of St. Mary’s Church located in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England.
Recently appointed to her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less.
Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her quaint parish. Her visit to the latest newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and cake and pastry recipes, this humorous, cozy mystery is an excellent introduction to the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series.
Another quick witty read great character s loved the story. I would def read the rest of this series.
Murder. Mayhem. A madcap lady vicar.
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is the charming, slightly gauche, very tall, thirty-something vicar of St. Mary’s Church located in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England.
Recently appointed to her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less.
Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her quaint parish. Her visit to the latest newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Filled with laugh-out-loud moments and cake and pastry recipes, this humorous, cozy mystery is an excellent introduction to the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series.
May 31, 2019
The cupcake thief and the archer
A good read. Well built up but the final reveal was a bit of an anticlimax. Nice mix of characters from the frisky exuberance of the Vicar to the understated authority of the Inspector.
Her acceptance into village life is almost complete and most of the villagers have come to appreciate the nature of their vicar. Exuberant, amazonian with a severe sweet tooth. However when she hears rumours of a new resident in the village and any reasons why he was there (the most prevalent being to set up a brothel) she decides to introduce herself. What she doesn't expect is to be lead to a lock room and then finding the owner dead. Shot through the heart by an arrow. When the Inspector arrives she finds out that the anguished cry she heard could not have come from the victim as he had already been dead for some time. Plus the young woman who let her in is also nowhere to be found. Two strangers, a cigarette butt, a cupcake thief and an overwhelming curiosity are all mixed into a good plot that peters out at the end. Will the murderer be caught?
A good read. Well built up but the final reveal was a bit of an anticlimax. Nice mix of characters from the frisky exuberance of the Vicar to the understated authority of the Inspector.
Her acceptance into village life is almost complete and most of the villagers have come to appreciate the nature of their vicar. Exuberant, amazonian with a severe sweet tooth. However when she hears rumours of a new resident in the village and any reasons why he was there (the most prevalent being to set up a brothel) she decides to introduce herself. What she doesn't expect is to be lead to a lock room and then finding the owner dead. Shot through the heart by an arrow. When the Inspector arrives she finds out that the anguished cry she heard could not have come from the victim as he had already been dead for some time. Plus the young woman who let her in is also nowhere to be found. Two strangers, a cigarette butt, a cupcake thief and an overwhelming curiosity are all mixed into a good plot that peters out at the end. Will the murderer be caught?
June 30, 2017
#1 in the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series. This slim debut to a series about the tall female rector of a parish in the Cornwell countryside is enjoyable. What there is of the characters is likeable but they could all use some development, and at barely more than a novella in length there is certainly room to spare.
Reverend Annabelle Dixon - Three years into her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less. Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her parish. Her visit to the newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Reverend Annabelle Dixon - Three years into her rural church position, Annabelle is beloved by her parishioners for dispensing good advice and godly wisdom with humor and charm while zipping her Mini Cooper around the country lanes and attempting to build a relationship with her church cat, Biscuit, who, quite frankly, couldn’t care less. Trouble arises when Annabelle faithfully welcomes a new resident to her parish. Her visit to the newcomer, Sir John Cartwright, is two-fold: to greet him and to dispel rumors of shady doings at the manor. This time, however, instead of tea and cakes, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder and a fine helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
June 20, 2017
Annabelle is an interesting woman. She is a vicar in a small village in Cornwall, a bee keeper, a gardener and an avid lover of cake and cupcakes. She is tall and her knees get weak when a certain policeman is in her vicinity.
When she visits a new resident in the area because the rumor running through the village is that the man is going to open a high end brothel. When he is murdered, Annabelle automatically feels the need to investigate. After all, she was there when he died.
This is a quick read filled with humor and humanity. The villagers are interesting and willing to imagine almost anything to explain how a murder happened in their town.
Annabelle likes her place in the world and wants to keep things as they are. Murder and a murderer running around, will change all that.
This is my first Annabelle book, and because I have enjoyed her so much, it will not be my last.
When she visits a new resident in the area because the rumor running through the village is that the man is going to open a high end brothel. When he is murdered, Annabelle automatically feels the need to investigate. After all, she was there when he died.
This is a quick read filled with humor and humanity. The villagers are interesting and willing to imagine almost anything to explain how a murder happened in their town.
Annabelle likes her place in the world and wants to keep things as they are. Murder and a murderer running around, will change all that.
This is my first Annabelle book, and because I have enjoyed her so much, it will not be my last.
July 31, 2024
Three years have passed since the first book of the Reverend Annabelle Dixon series and, as announced in the previous one, Annabelle has moved to the countryside, to Upton St. Mary, a small village near Truro, so we are in Cornwall. Annabelle is a friend of the Truro police inspector but they don't tell us how the two know each other, maybe even there's something tender about it (I thought I'd skipped a book but no). They are such good friends that when Annabelle is involved in the murder of Sir John Cartwright, who has just arrived to live in the village, she is informed on every aspect of the ongoing investigation, even by the coroner. As in the previous book, the mystery plot is almost inconsistent. The setting then does not receive more attention, and it is truly a shame: the inhabitants of the village remain in the background and speak with a single voice, there is no characterization of the characters. We only get to know Annabelle's assistant, Philippa and her cat Biscuit.
April 10, 2023
This will never be my favorite of the Reverend Annabelle Dixon Murder Mysteries, but it has it’s own charms. Could Annabelle be a kleptomaniac? Or is there a different cupcake thief at the church? Was the victim trying to turn his sorted life around or was he opening a brothel in the Upton St. Mary mansion? Rumors abound. We are introduced to two unusual ladies who pretend to be what they are not. Annabelle sees through their act immediately. They have been an associate of the victim. Will love conquer all? Will the murderer confess to keep the girl he loves from taking the rap? Annabelle finds the answers to all of these questions. But will she get over her giddy schoolgirl infatuation with Inspector Mike Nicholls or will it grow into something more? That question is yet to be answered.
August 25, 2017
Reverend Annabelle Dixon is the well liked vicar of St. Mary's Church. She understands the villagers and knows when things don't seem right. When she pays a visit to a new resident, she discovers his body. The Reverend Annabelle is determined to find who committed the Murder At The Mansion. Annabelle is charming. Her wit and humor make me smile. She's intelligent and uses her instincts to help Inspector Mike Nicholls track down the killer. The hint of attraction between these two added a little spice to the story. This is a charming cozy mystery with characters that I liked and with the beautiful English countryside as the setting. Alison Golden kept me guessing as to who did the crime. I had to keep reading to find out who the culprit was.
September 9, 2017
A cozy mystery -- not bad, but not great. I found it fairly simplistic. The amateur investigator is likeable enough but the police inspector seemed a little too willing to let her 'help' with the case. At one point she found a cigarette butt in a place that made it likely important evidence, and she picked it up and put it in her pocket. It was mentioned later that they got some guy's DNA off it, so it's definitely contemporary, and I feel like she should have either known better than to use her bare hands, or have gotten a bit of a talking to from the inspector.
One note. . . those this is listed as #1, there's actually a prequel; in some lists that's number one and this is #2. Regardless, I won't be reading #3, most likely.
One note. . . those this is listed as #1, there's actually a prequel; in some lists that's number one and this is #2. Regardless, I won't be reading #3, most likely.
April 7, 2023
Murder At The Mansion - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
Reverend Annabelle Dixon's rather like the Vicar of Dibley crossed with Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, which is no bad thing as she needs a sense of humour to deal with the murder mysteries that seem to be attracted to her like iron filings to a magnet.
This time a newcomer to her parish, Sir John Cartwright, is found gruesomely murdered and Annabelle must rewrite her sermon to provoke a reaction and draw the killer out.
Are Sophie and Gabriella really just tourists?
Whom does Inspector Mike Nicholls suspect?
To find out whodunit?, get a copy of Alison Golden's quirky and amusingly different cozy mystery-thriller Murder at the Mansion today!
Reverend Annabelle Dixon's rather like the Vicar of Dibley crossed with Agatha Christie's Miss Marple, which is no bad thing as she needs a sense of humour to deal with the murder mysteries that seem to be attracted to her like iron filings to a magnet.
This time a newcomer to her parish, Sir John Cartwright, is found gruesomely murdered and Annabelle must rewrite her sermon to provoke a reaction and draw the killer out.
Are Sophie and Gabriella really just tourists?
Whom does Inspector Mike Nicholls suspect?
To find out whodunit?, get a copy of Alison Golden's quirky and amusingly different cozy mystery-thriller Murder at the Mansion today!
October 31, 2017
I really like the characters in this Cozy Mystery series. This is a wonderful story with twists and turns, with humor and drama...but not too much drama, ha! No really, Alison Golden has got myself and my mother who is 87, really enjoying these mysteries with the characters being so real. The genre, Cozy Mysteries or Christian Cozy Mysteries,are something to be enjoyed, without bad language, other unneccesary language or sex. Goodness is a great virtue that many may appreciate. Thank you Alison Golden (I misspelled your last name in a review, please forgive me!). If anyone enjoys a good book with a great story line; these are for you. Take care and may God bless all!
June 22, 2018
This is a cozy mystery of course, and features the Reverend Annabelle Dixon. Annabelle is somewhere between Miss Marple and Father Brown. I find her thoroughly delightful. Cozy mysteries are a bit like sherbet served between courses of a formal meal; they are light, easy to digest and nicely bridge the gap between more serious works. This one is a cut above average; the mystery is believable and the solution is reached through careful discovery and interpretation of clues. There are no Sherlockian leaps of logic, just careful thought and solid detective work. I will certainly read the next book in the series and hope to learn more about the supporting cast in Upton St Mary. Enjoy!
April 1, 2022
The second entry in this series is even better. Reverend Annabelle Dixon has been posted to a small village in Cornwall. It is what she always wanted. She loves the small village and is beloved by the parishioners. She hears about someone new who moved into a mansion on the outskirts of town and maybe doing something shady. Annabelle decides to meet him. When she gets to the mansion, she hears a loud scream and finds him dead. He was shot with a crossbow. She meets Mike Nicholls who is the detective investigating the murder. At first, he's put out by her interfering, but he finally agrees that she helps solve the case.
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