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Music Lover’s Mystery #2
Death in a Major
The new season for the Point Grey Philharmonic starts off on a sour note when one of the symphony’s wealthy benefactors drops dead in the latest Music Lover’s Mystery
DEATH IN A MAJOR
When Archibald Major, local big wig and nasty tyrant, drops dead at a post-concert reception, violinist Midori Bishop soon suspects foul play. Although Midori has no intention of getting involved in another murder investigation, that all changes when Jordan—her violin student and the victim’s grandson—seeks her help convincing the police that the real killer is his uncle, a low-level criminal. As Midori digs into the victim’s life, she discovers that he was a man who created discord at every turn, even within his own family, and there is no shortage of potential suspects. When someone close to Midori unexpectedly confesses to the crime, Midori must race to discover the identity of the true killer before an innocent person goes to jail for a crime they didn’t commit…and before Midori herself becomes a victim in the killer’s deadly encore.
Published by William Morrow
DEATH IN A MAJOR
When Archibald Major, local big wig and nasty tyrant, drops dead at a post-concert reception, violinist Midori Bishop soon suspects foul play. Although Midori has no intention of getting involved in another murder investigation, that all changes when Jordan—her violin student and the victim’s grandson—seeks her help convincing the police that the real killer is his uncle, a low-level criminal. As Midori digs into the victim’s life, she discovers that he was a man who created discord at every turn, even within his own family, and there is no shortage of potential suspects. When someone close to Midori unexpectedly confesses to the crime, Midori must race to discover the identity of the true killer before an innocent person goes to jail for a crime they didn’t commit…and before Midori herself becomes a victim in the killer’s deadly encore.
Published by William Morrow
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryMusic
272 pages, Paperback
First published January 5, 2016
About the author
Sarah Fox
23 books774 followersSarah Fox, writer of cozy mysteries, was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she developed a love for mysteries at a young age. When not writing novels or working as a legal writer she is often reading her way through a stack of books or spending time outdoors with her English Springer Spaniel.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
January 12, 2016
ARC provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review
“I knew my theory was formed mostly on the basis of speculation, but it made sense. It didn’t answer all of my questions, however.”
A well orchestrated murder mystery that hits all the right chords to keep readers in tune!!!! Death In A Major by Sarah Fox is the first book that I have read from this author and follows the life of Midori Bishop and her crazy life in the symphony. Behind the curtains, Ms. Fox harmonizes and stages a perfect setting for murder. When someone in the orchestra is murdered it is up to Midori to discover who is the real suspect. In the backdrops of pursuing who the killer is, Ms. Fox was able to weave a budding romance in the process. Death In A Major was a quick read that is layered with a lively and colorful cast of characters who are suspects in this whodunit romance mystery. So if you are looking for a book that has all the right notes to pitch a perfect harmony of romance and suspense then I would recommend you to check out Death In A Major.
“I hadn’t wanted to, I realized. And I knew why. Being in love with my best friend scared the heck out of me. I didn’t want to ruin our friendship or make things awkward between us. That would devastate me.”
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Sarah Fox
“I knew my theory was formed mostly on the basis of speculation, but it made sense. It didn’t answer all of my questions, however.”A well orchestrated murder mystery that hits all the right chords to keep readers in tune!!!! Death In A Major by Sarah Fox is the first book that I have read from this author and follows the life of Midori Bishop and her crazy life in the symphony. Behind the curtains, Ms. Fox harmonizes and stages a perfect setting for murder. When someone in the orchestra is murdered it is up to Midori to discover who is the real suspect. In the backdrops of pursuing who the killer is, Ms. Fox was able to weave a budding romance in the process. Death In A Major was a quick read that is layered with a lively and colorful cast of characters who are suspects in this whodunit romance mystery. So if you are looking for a book that has all the right notes to pitch a perfect harmony of romance and suspense then I would recommend you to check out Death In A Major.
“I hadn’t wanted to, I realized. And I knew why. Being in love with my best friend scared the heck out of me. I didn’t want to ruin our friendship or make things awkward between us. That would devastate me.”
Review can also be found on Four Chicks Flipping Pages: http://fourchicksflippingpages.weebly...Sarah Fox
August 13, 2018
Yes, I actually read this straight through today, didn't even stop to make updates. This was another baffling mystery, but once a clue came into place, I thought I probably knew the person behind it, but what an awesome twist that turned out to be! I had no clue!
Midori found herself tangled up in another case when the orchestra's most generous benefactor collapsed and died at an after-concert party. She taught violin to the man's grandson and with his help, she managed to find out a few things about different people. The grandson was so sure his uncle had killed his grandfather. In the meantime, Midori was trying to clear an orchestra friend from the theft of another member's brooch. Lots of legwork and online searching later, Midori was ready to name the killer. Hopefully she wouldn't be the next victim before she got to do that!
I love what a good and loyal friend Midori is to everyone she knows. I think she would love a relationship with JT other than what they have, but she seems afraid to spoil their friendship. And she was determined to prove that her friend Bronwyn wasn't guilty of stealing anyone's brooch. I really liked her student, Jordan too. He was a nice kid and worried a lot about his mom, but he made a good investigating partner.
I'm anxious to see what book three has in store for Midori. I don't know if this series is supposed to continue or if it's just the three books or what. I hope there will be more beyond three.
Midori found herself tangled up in another case when the orchestra's most generous benefactor collapsed and died at an after-concert party. She taught violin to the man's grandson and with his help, she managed to find out a few things about different people. The grandson was so sure his uncle had killed his grandfather. In the meantime, Midori was trying to clear an orchestra friend from the theft of another member's brooch. Lots of legwork and online searching later, Midori was ready to name the killer. Hopefully she wouldn't be the next victim before she got to do that!
I love what a good and loyal friend Midori is to everyone she knows. I think she would love a relationship with JT other than what they have, but she seems afraid to spoil their friendship. And she was determined to prove that her friend Bronwyn wasn't guilty of stealing anyone's brooch. I really liked her student, Jordan too. He was a nice kid and worried a lot about his mom, but he made a good investigating partner.
I'm anxious to see what book three has in store for Midori. I don't know if this series is supposed to continue or if it's just the three books or what. I hope there will be more beyond three.
January 16, 2016
I was sent an unsolicited ARC for review from Harper Collin's Witness Impulse imprint, which I'd like to thank them in advance for the ARC and the opportunity to review this book. Coming into this book, I knew nothing about it, expect that it was a murder mystery. I didn't even realize it was a part of the series until I went on the Goodreads page for the book, although honestly you don't need to read the first book to follow along the second book.
Honestly, this book was just okay. There were really no defining factors that made it stand out. The writing and plot were very typical of murder mysteries. The beginning was rather slow and I wasn't sure when we would get to the main investigating part of the plot. Even then, the investigating wasn't nearly as detailed or detective-like as I thought it would be. Honestly any person with a brain could put the details together like the main character. Most of the time there were several mini-plots happening at once and I felt like that took away from the main plot, like the whole side romance/friend thing that I did not care for. There were a few twists with regards to the killer that I didn't see coming and that is really what was a reading factor for me that made this a 3 star book instead of a 2 star book. As for the characters they also didn't stand out. There was nothing special about them, and even the main character didn't have any qualities or characteristics that made me want to get attached to her. Overall, this was just a quick read.
Honestly, this book was just okay. There were really no defining factors that made it stand out. The writing and plot were very typical of murder mysteries. The beginning was rather slow and I wasn't sure when we would get to the main investigating part of the plot. Even then, the investigating wasn't nearly as detailed or detective-like as I thought it would be. Honestly any person with a brain could put the details together like the main character. Most of the time there were several mini-plots happening at once and I felt like that took away from the main plot, like the whole side romance/friend thing that I did not care for. There were a few twists with regards to the killer that I didn't see coming and that is really what was a reading factor for me that made this a 3 star book instead of a 2 star book. As for the characters they also didn't stand out. There was nothing special about them, and even the main character didn't have any qualities or characteristics that made me want to get attached to her. Overall, this was just a quick read.
January 5, 2016
Review to come :)
August 1, 2017
I really like the main character in the book. She was tenacious as usual, though at times even I wished she'd back off and let the police handle it, so I can definitely relate to the worry her best friend felt over her putting herself in danger. One of the things I like most about this series is recognizing landmarks and city names since it is set not too far from where I live. Fox does a great job of depicting Vancouver, engaging the audience in a unique puzzle, and making us smile with Dori's revelation in this book.
January 21, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book, in exchange for an honest review**
Violinist and member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Midori Bishop has always been the inquisitive type. When Mr. Major, one of the Philharmonic’s benefactors suddenly dies during the orchestra’s open-night reception event, Midori suspects foul play.
Returning to the scene of the crime the next day, her suspicions are upheld when the police are sniffing around. And with the results of a pending toxicology results confirmed, Midori’s desire to find out who killed Mr. Major goes in to overdrive.
Can she find out the true killer, amidst all of the red herrings, and before the killer finds her?
Midori Bishop is a determined, young woman, who unfortunately is also too nosy for her own good, and can’t let things lie.
She seems to love a good puzzle, and what’s better to solve than a murder, even though her friends try everything to dissuade her.
Her personal relationship plays out though out the book as a side plot, but I was unsure how I felt about it. I can’t say that I enjoyed the relationship plot that much, and it was baffling at times.
I liked the way that the story is full of sub-plots and red herrings to throw you off the scent of the real killer, time and time again.
The book is more than just your usual detective-type book, with it’s musical and romantic elements running alongside the main plot, it felt different to other similar novels.
I didn’t realise that this book book was actually ‘part-two’ in a series, though it didn’t really matter, as this book worked as a standalone, just as well.
An enjoyable read, though I had worked a lot of the clues out along the way for myself, before they were revealed.
Reviewed by Stacey at www.whisperingstories.com - (I awarded the book 3.5 stars on the blog but this site only allows full star ratings.)
Violinist and member of the Philharmonic Orchestra, Midori Bishop has always been the inquisitive type. When Mr. Major, one of the Philharmonic’s benefactors suddenly dies during the orchestra’s open-night reception event, Midori suspects foul play.
Returning to the scene of the crime the next day, her suspicions are upheld when the police are sniffing around. And with the results of a pending toxicology results confirmed, Midori’s desire to find out who killed Mr. Major goes in to overdrive.
Can she find out the true killer, amidst all of the red herrings, and before the killer finds her?
Midori Bishop is a determined, young woman, who unfortunately is also too nosy for her own good, and can’t let things lie.
She seems to love a good puzzle, and what’s better to solve than a murder, even though her friends try everything to dissuade her.
Her personal relationship plays out though out the book as a side plot, but I was unsure how I felt about it. I can’t say that I enjoyed the relationship plot that much, and it was baffling at times.
I liked the way that the story is full of sub-plots and red herrings to throw you off the scent of the real killer, time and time again.
The book is more than just your usual detective-type book, with it’s musical and romantic elements running alongside the main plot, it felt different to other similar novels.
I didn’t realise that this book book was actually ‘part-two’ in a series, though it didn’t really matter, as this book worked as a standalone, just as well.
An enjoyable read, though I had worked a lot of the clues out along the way for myself, before they were revealed.
Reviewed by Stacey at www.whisperingstories.com - (I awarded the book 3.5 stars on the blog but this site only allows full star ratings.)
January 27, 2016
Mystery is a genre that I can never resist. I wasn’t able to resist this book as well when the publishers offered me a review copy. Not that I regret picking it up, but the story didn’t really impress me either.
Our protagonist, Midori has penchant for getting entangled in some murder investigation and end up in mortal danger. This time, it is the death or rather the murder of the Philharmonic orchestra’s patron, Mr.Major. Given that she was present in the scene, she is intrigued and begins her own private investigation. More than investigation, she sort of pieced in all the evidence and brainstormed a possible solution.
Though the story pretty much followed the typical sequence of events – the murder, the suspect list by the protagonist, the investigation and finally the murderer is caught. In spite of following a conventional story board, the book had ample twists and turns that were more character related than that of an event related. In sense, the more than the actions by the character resulting in a twist, the layering of the characters brought in more twists. Apart from the mystery element, the story also had a couple of romantic threads. Of course, the initial thread of that of Aaron seemed a bit less developed in this book. When I realized that this is the second book in the series, while looking up details to post the review, the lack of depth in that part of the story seemed justified. Also Midori’s relationship with her best friend JT seemed to lack depth. May be we would see more of it in the next book given that it is a series. Apart from these two wee bit minuses, other characters had the depth that was required for the story.
MY SAY: A pretty conventional mystery.
RATING:
PLOT: 3/5
CHARACTERISATION: 3/5
NARRATION: 3/5
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/5 (lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 3/5
Our protagonist, Midori has penchant for getting entangled in some murder investigation and end up in mortal danger. This time, it is the death or rather the murder of the Philharmonic orchestra’s patron, Mr.Major. Given that she was present in the scene, she is intrigued and begins her own private investigation. More than investigation, she sort of pieced in all the evidence and brainstormed a possible solution.
Though the story pretty much followed the typical sequence of events – the murder, the suspect list by the protagonist, the investigation and finally the murderer is caught. In spite of following a conventional story board, the book had ample twists and turns that were more character related than that of an event related. In sense, the more than the actions by the character resulting in a twist, the layering of the characters brought in more twists. Apart from the mystery element, the story also had a couple of romantic threads. Of course, the initial thread of that of Aaron seemed a bit less developed in this book. When I realized that this is the second book in the series, while looking up details to post the review, the lack of depth in that part of the story seemed justified. Also Midori’s relationship with her best friend JT seemed to lack depth. May be we would see more of it in the next book given that it is a series. Apart from these two wee bit minuses, other characters had the depth that was required for the story.
MY SAY: A pretty conventional mystery.
RATING:
PLOT: 3/5
CHARACTERISATION: 3/5
NARRATION: 3/5
BOREDOM QUOTIENT: 1/5 (lower the better)
OVERALL RATING: 3/5
January 13, 2016
This was a good mystery. Midori is a violinist who has a habit of stumbling into murder mysteries. When a prominent donor to the orchestra dies at a reception, Midori gets wrapped up in helping to solve the mystery of who killed him. There is a list of people who are suspects, so you spend most of the story trying to figure out who, because everyone looks equally guilty. Midori is a likable girl, despite her meddling in the police affairs. She doesn't come off as too nosy. There are some romantic elements. While they share the spotlight with the mystery of the story, they never get really resolved, which was why I think I had a hard time with the end. The murder gets wrapped up and completed, but we're kind of left with a "what the heck is going on with the guy" feeling when it's over. It's still worth the read, an entertaining story, and I liked the music/orchestra aspect. It gave it a different spin from most other mysteries I've read. I'd probably pick up another book in the series just to find out if she ever gets the guy.
I received a copy of this story from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this story from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
September 19, 2021
I read this having been mildly entertained by the first book in the series, Dead Ringer. Death in A Major follows the formula of its predecessor rather too slavishly, and the heroine is, if anything, even more irritating with her tendency to reveal key information to possible suspects. Also, the editing was sloppy: it seems unlikely that the events of chapters 20 to 26 could have taken place within the space of one day, and presumably that was also the author's view as Midori refers to a conversation which occurred earlier in the day as having happened the previous day.
Nitpicking apart, it's a pleasant enough undemanding holiday read.
Nitpicking apart, it's a pleasant enough undemanding holiday read.
May 1, 2019
I found Sarah Fox because of her new release (Wine and Punishment) and loved her writing. As a result, I went back to find her older books. Death in a Major is a fun, quick read with a tenacious heroine and quality writing. I gave it 3 stars because Midori (the heroine) is a bit annoying in her belief that the police are not actually up to the job, but really I could round up to 3.5. It's clear that Sarah Fox's writing has evolved and improved, and I'm glad that I have found her.
July 30, 2018
Really enjoyed this book and the series. In this book, a benefactor of the orchestra is murdered. Midori gets involved investigating because the man was the grandfather of one of her students. A great book with intriguing characters. I am excited to read the next book and see if JT and Midori finally start dating.
August 30, 2022
Fun fresh new story, I love it.
January 20, 2023
3 1/2 - Very Good
April 27, 2024
I wish I liked Midori more, after all we share a name, but she just kind of bugs me.
January 22, 2016
Read review at: http://thereadingarmchair.blogspot.gr...
What can be more appealing than a mystery novel under the tunes of Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev, and Mozart? The Music Lover's Mystery combines these two things that I love, mystery and music. Although I read Death In A Major without reading the first instalment of the series, Dead Ringer, I didn't have any problem getting to know the characters.
Mystery novels tend to have a certain pattern: a murder happens, the main character makes a list of the suspects and then investigates each one of them. Death in A Major follows this route. Midori was present at Mr. Major's death and so she had the chance to witness who seemed to hate the elderly man. Although she didn't intend to participate in the investigation she always seemed to be in the center of the events. Generally, I liked the way she chose to search for answers, but I found it a little weird that she chose not to investigate certain suspects based only on her gut feeling.
I really liked that everything in Death in A Major were unpredictable. In every single chapter, I learnt something new about Mr. Major and his life, as well as facts about the suspects, that I didn't expect, which is great in this particular genre. Until the very end, I couldn't guess who the murderer was! Also, the climax of the novel was pretty intense. For a moment, it seemed like Midori didn't have a chance of escape.
But there were also things in the book that I could do without. Basically, one thing: the love story with Aaron. I realise that he might have appeared in the first instalment of the series (which I'm not sure since I haven't read it) and so he would have to appear in the second one as well, but I couldn't feel concerned about the future of his and Midori's relationship. So, the chapters where the young violinist was thinking about breaking up with him didn't have anything to offer to the story.
Nevertheless, one of the greatest advantages of Death in A Major was the main character, Midori. She was well-developed, I instantly connected with her and I was sincerely worried about her well-being. Sometimes, it did feel strange that she always found herself in trouble, when the police had clearly told her to stay out of this. Also, her curiosity would easily make her seem nosy and in a few instances I did consider her as such.
All in all, Death in A Major is a highly enjoyable read. The mystery is hard to solve and if you love this genre then it will definitely keep your interest. I won't hide that I will now read the first Music Lover's Mystery, as well!
What can be more appealing than a mystery novel under the tunes of Rachmaninoff, Prokofiev, and Mozart? The Music Lover's Mystery combines these two things that I love, mystery and music. Although I read Death In A Major without reading the first instalment of the series, Dead Ringer, I didn't have any problem getting to know the characters.
Mystery novels tend to have a certain pattern: a murder happens, the main character makes a list of the suspects and then investigates each one of them. Death in A Major follows this route. Midori was present at Mr. Major's death and so she had the chance to witness who seemed to hate the elderly man. Although she didn't intend to participate in the investigation she always seemed to be in the center of the events. Generally, I liked the way she chose to search for answers, but I found it a little weird that she chose not to investigate certain suspects based only on her gut feeling.
I really liked that everything in Death in A Major were unpredictable. In every single chapter, I learnt something new about Mr. Major and his life, as well as facts about the suspects, that I didn't expect, which is great in this particular genre. Until the very end, I couldn't guess who the murderer was! Also, the climax of the novel was pretty intense. For a moment, it seemed like Midori didn't have a chance of escape.
But there were also things in the book that I could do without. Basically, one thing: the love story with Aaron. I realise that he might have appeared in the first instalment of the series (which I'm not sure since I haven't read it) and so he would have to appear in the second one as well, but I couldn't feel concerned about the future of his and Midori's relationship. So, the chapters where the young violinist was thinking about breaking up with him didn't have anything to offer to the story.
Nevertheless, one of the greatest advantages of Death in A Major was the main character, Midori. She was well-developed, I instantly connected with her and I was sincerely worried about her well-being. Sometimes, it did feel strange that she always found herself in trouble, when the police had clearly told her to stay out of this. Also, her curiosity would easily make her seem nosy and in a few instances I did consider her as such.
All in all, Death in A Major is a highly enjoyable read. The mystery is hard to solve and if you love this genre then it will definitely keep your interest. I won't hide that I will now read the first Music Lover's Mystery, as well!
October 20, 2016
So I have to start off by saying I have never read a cozy mystery book before. First time in this genre! Also, I have to admit, it was different. Good, but different.
In the beginning, there are so many names; I kept getting confused. I'd have to switch back a page and remember who that person was. However, I do think that goes along the lines of this is the second book in the series and I haven't read the first book. I don't think it was necessary to read the first one first, because they are both stand-alones (from my understanding). That being said, I think I would have had an easier time following along, if I had read the first one. Oh well. I know better for next time! As I got further along, it was much easier to tell everyone apart! :-) Yay!
The plot in this was pretty awesome. I did enjoy it the mystery aspect of it. I am all for murder mysteries, but this one just had a different feel to it.
Midori inserts herself into the investigation of Mr. Major's death. If I had a personal interest, I would too! But... Upon being threatened, I would have ceased my interest. Yes, I do realize it is wayyy easier said than done. Now, I do think that if I had read a cozy mystery before, I would have enjoyed it more. I'm not so sure that cozy mysteries are my thing. However, because I wasn't sure what to expect, I have nothing to compare it to.
Sarah Fox did an awesome job in providing back ground for the characters, as well as their development. It was a little slow to draw me in, but once it did (around 35%), I could hardly put it down! She kept me captivated and wanting to know what other trouble Midori would get herself into. Also, I do give her props for breaking up with Aaron. If it's not right, it's better to say good-bye sooner, rather than later. I felt bad for both parties.
Death in A Major is a book I really enjoyed. I look forward to reading more of Sarah's work soon!
*I reviewed an advanced reader copy.
In the beginning, there are so many names; I kept getting confused. I'd have to switch back a page and remember who that person was. However, I do think that goes along the lines of this is the second book in the series and I haven't read the first book. I don't think it was necessary to read the first one first, because they are both stand-alones (from my understanding). That being said, I think I would have had an easier time following along, if I had read the first one. Oh well. I know better for next time! As I got further along, it was much easier to tell everyone apart! :-) Yay!
The plot in this was pretty awesome. I did enjoy it the mystery aspect of it. I am all for murder mysteries, but this one just had a different feel to it.
Midori inserts herself into the investigation of Mr. Major's death. If I had a personal interest, I would too! But... Upon being threatened, I would have ceased my interest. Yes, I do realize it is wayyy easier said than done. Now, I do think that if I had read a cozy mystery before, I would have enjoyed it more. I'm not so sure that cozy mysteries are my thing. However, because I wasn't sure what to expect, I have nothing to compare it to.
Sarah Fox did an awesome job in providing back ground for the characters, as well as their development. It was a little slow to draw me in, but once it did (around 35%), I could hardly put it down! She kept me captivated and wanting to know what other trouble Midori would get herself into. Also, I do give her props for breaking up with Aaron. If it's not right, it's better to say good-bye sooner, rather than later. I felt bad for both parties.
Death in A Major is a book I really enjoyed. I look forward to reading more of Sarah's work soon!
*I reviewed an advanced reader copy.
January 22, 2016
Review first appeared on Brooke Blogs.
*** 3.25 - 3.5 Stars ***
Death in A Major by Sarah Fox is the second book in the Music Lover’s Mystery series. I have not read the first book in the series, but found it quite easy to jump right in to the story and follow Midori as she tried to solve a murder.
Midori is a violinist in the Point Grey Philharmonic and she also teaches violin from a studio in the home of her best friend, JT (and his dog, Finnegan). On opening night, the orchestra’s reception becomes the scene of a murder, when Mr. Major, one of the major benefactors of the orchestra, collapses and dies. Once Midori learns that Mr. Major did not die from natural causes, her curiosity gets the best of her and she does some investigating on her own.
In addition to the murder mystery, Midori also has some romantic complications. The story flowed well and I felt there was a good mix of suspects throughout. Midori is an intelligent sleuth, though she sometimes didn’t seem to have much common sense. She would blurt things out in front of people she suspected of murder and would get herself into dangerous situations. I wasn’t sure how the story was going to play out, and that is always a good thing in a cozy mystery. Death in A Major by Sarah Fox kept my attention and I felt it was worth my time reading. I wanted to see Midori solve the case. I felt a little let down by the ending – I felt there were things in Midori’s personal life that I didn’t get to see resolved. I would read the next book in the series to see if that would happen.
I received an unsolicited advance review ebook from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion and was not influenced in any way.
*** 3.25 - 3.5 Stars ***
Death in A Major by Sarah Fox is the second book in the Music Lover’s Mystery series. I have not read the first book in the series, but found it quite easy to jump right in to the story and follow Midori as she tried to solve a murder.
Midori is a violinist in the Point Grey Philharmonic and she also teaches violin from a studio in the home of her best friend, JT (and his dog, Finnegan). On opening night, the orchestra’s reception becomes the scene of a murder, when Mr. Major, one of the major benefactors of the orchestra, collapses and dies. Once Midori learns that Mr. Major did not die from natural causes, her curiosity gets the best of her and she does some investigating on her own.
In addition to the murder mystery, Midori also has some romantic complications. The story flowed well and I felt there was a good mix of suspects throughout. Midori is an intelligent sleuth, though she sometimes didn’t seem to have much common sense. She would blurt things out in front of people she suspected of murder and would get herself into dangerous situations. I wasn’t sure how the story was going to play out, and that is always a good thing in a cozy mystery. Death in A Major by Sarah Fox kept my attention and I felt it was worth my time reading. I wanted to see Midori solve the case. I felt a little let down by the ending – I felt there were things in Midori’s personal life that I didn’t get to see resolved. I would read the next book in the series to see if that would happen.
I received an unsolicited advance review ebook from the publisher. This review is my honest opinion and was not influenced in any way.
January 12, 2016
This was nice low key mystery, that has a bit of everything; murder, romance, multiple suspects, danger, tense excitement, and is well written by Fox. Though this was a quick and entertaining read, I found myself shaking my head on some things. Midori is very good at asking questions, and finding clues. Every time she turns around another clue changes things as to who the murderer is. There are also villains in this book, who are not the murderer.
What I found a bit unrealistic was how she would go to the police, tell them the things she found, and expect them to tell her what they know. I also thought it was unrealistic how she would go to different people to ask questions. She wasn’t police or a detective, and she more or less was butting into people’s lives. I know that this is fiction, and Miss Marple did something similar, though the old lady did it with class. Not so with Midori. As nice as she was, there were times she acted so rashly, and I found myself becoming annoyed with her.
The mystery was good, played out well, and as I said, well written. If you like a good sweet mystery, you should give this a try.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
What I found a bit unrealistic was how she would go to the police, tell them the things she found, and expect them to tell her what they know. I also thought it was unrealistic how she would go to different people to ask questions. She wasn’t police or a detective, and she more or less was butting into people’s lives. I know that this is fiction, and Miss Marple did something similar, though the old lady did it with class. Not so with Midori. As nice as she was, there were times she acted so rashly, and I found myself becoming annoyed with her.
The mystery was good, played out well, and as I said, well written. If you like a good sweet mystery, you should give this a try.
Barb
The Reading Cafe
January 31, 2016
Truly a perfect cozy mystery read. Fox has a way with words and her writing is very succinct and powerful. Her images are clear and her characters are well defined. If you like fun mystery books, this is a great read. If you tend to prefer darker, grittier thrillers a la Gillian Flynn or Paula Hawkins, then you may not find this as up your alley.
Definitely recommended for a fun, who-dunnit adventure!
Definitely recommended for a fun, who-dunnit adventure!
June 3, 2016
Sarah Fox does it again with another Music Lover's mystery! Definitely enjoyed following Midori Bishop on another investigation. A fun read for anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries!
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