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Antique Shop Mysteries #1
Stranger in the Looking Glass
Maggie lives in Somerset Harbor, Maine.She inherits an antique store and Sedgwick Manor. Maggie and her friends set out to unravel the mysteries that have been tucked away for years.
205 pages, Hardcover
First published April 1, 2016
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
October 22, 2018
Stranger in the Looking Glass is the first book in the Antique Shop Mysteries series published by Annie's Fiction (Annie's Attic). The series is written by various authors and sold as a subscription service like the other cozy mystery titles from Annie's Fiction. Luckily, a generous reader donated several of the books from this series to my local public library! :)
In this first book, Maggie Watson is suffering from empty nest emotions after her daughter leaves for college. Then she receives a call from an attorney informing her that she has inherited her aunt's house and antique shop in Maine. Soon after arriving in Somerset Harbor she discovers a photograph in her aunt's house that just might reveal a family secret. Maggie begins investigating to discover the truth, only to find out that secrets can be dangerous.
This book is a light, enjoyable cozy mystery. It's a true cozy -- no cursing, no spurting blood, no sex. Just a light entertaining read that is appropriate for all ages. The book is short with a page count of just over 200. That's a bit padded, however, because there is a blank page following the end of each chapter. So, the story is actually about 180 pages or so. Nice short length for traveling reading or light reading while waiting for an appointment, etc.
The story is well-written and nicely paced. The plot is relatively simple, and the background theme is entertaining. The antique shop theme didn't overpower the mystery portion of the plot, but added to it. The story is light but has some suspense and plenty of investigation. All in all, a nice start to a cozy series. This series is available as a monthly subscription service. I had a bit of a hard time finding a complete listing of all the books available or reading order, probably because the series is available only as a subscription from Annie's Fiction. I'm glad that someone donated most of the books to my local public library. I just won't shell out $14.99 plus shipping/handling/tax for a hardcover cozy I'm only going to read one time. That being said.....the books are attractive. The cover art is colorful and enticing. Each book has an attached cloth ribbon bookmark, and the paper and binding are high quality. The set of books would look very attractive displayed on a bookshelf. The price is a bit steep for me though...so I'm going to stick with borrowing them from my local library.
There are at least 24 books in this series. I couldn't find an up to date listing, so there might be more than that.
In this first book, Maggie Watson is suffering from empty nest emotions after her daughter leaves for college. Then she receives a call from an attorney informing her that she has inherited her aunt's house and antique shop in Maine. Soon after arriving in Somerset Harbor she discovers a photograph in her aunt's house that just might reveal a family secret. Maggie begins investigating to discover the truth, only to find out that secrets can be dangerous.
This book is a light, enjoyable cozy mystery. It's a true cozy -- no cursing, no spurting blood, no sex. Just a light entertaining read that is appropriate for all ages. The book is short with a page count of just over 200. That's a bit padded, however, because there is a blank page following the end of each chapter. So, the story is actually about 180 pages or so. Nice short length for traveling reading or light reading while waiting for an appointment, etc.
The story is well-written and nicely paced. The plot is relatively simple, and the background theme is entertaining. The antique shop theme didn't overpower the mystery portion of the plot, but added to it. The story is light but has some suspense and plenty of investigation. All in all, a nice start to a cozy series. This series is available as a monthly subscription service. I had a bit of a hard time finding a complete listing of all the books available or reading order, probably because the series is available only as a subscription from Annie's Fiction. I'm glad that someone donated most of the books to my local public library. I just won't shell out $14.99 plus shipping/handling/tax for a hardcover cozy I'm only going to read one time. That being said.....the books are attractive. The cover art is colorful and enticing. Each book has an attached cloth ribbon bookmark, and the paper and binding are high quality. The set of books would look very attractive displayed on a bookshelf. The price is a bit steep for me though...so I'm going to stick with borrowing them from my local library.
There are at least 24 books in this series. I couldn't find an up to date listing, so there might be more than that.
July 8, 2016
Maggie Watson is a forty-something widow living on her own in the same cottage in Bennington, Vermont where she had happily raised her family. Conceivably, she is content to continue living in her picturesque little cottage with her cat Snickers for the rest of her days. However, with the death of her husband three years before and the recent departure of her daughter Emily for college - Maggie is suffering pangs of 'Empty Nest Syndrome'. She is also beginning to recognize that she has reached a brand new chapter in the story of her life, and is looking to make some sort of change.
She just wasn't expecting to make that change quite so soon. Maggie is surprised to learn that she has recently inherited some property from her aunt Evelyn. Apparently, her aunt has bequeathed to Maggie a stately nineteenth-century Colonial-style mansion, Sedgwick Manor, as well as the adjacent antique store - Carriage House Antiques - a charming little shop located in the seaside town of Somerset Harbor, Maine. Maggie has always dreamed of owning an antique store and discovering the various different stories that each particular item can tell.
However, she never suspected that some of those stories just might become relevant to her own life. While separating the inventory for the store and going through her aunt's various personal effects, Maggie discovers a photograph of her aunt hidden in the backing of an old mirror. She is astonished by the story apparently being told by this particular photo: because it's an impossible story; one full of mystery, danger and intrigue. Standing beside her aunt in the recent photograph is her Uncle George...a man who died twenty years ago.
Having enlisted the help of the members of the historical society - ladies who all knew Evelyn well - and James Bennett, an historic preservationist and handsome bachelor; Maggie begins her investigation into her aunt's final months. What she subsequently discovers about her Aunt Evelyn, as well as her Uncle George's past is disturbing to her. As her search for clues continues, it quickly becomes abundantly clear to Maggie that she is not the only person looking for answers. Someone desperately wants to know just what Maggie knows...and just how she knows it.
Cryptic messages and warnings are being left inside Sedgwick Manor, personal effects are being rifled through, and a U. S. Marshal arrives in town asking some very unsettling questions. Maggie soon realizes that this mystery is more serious than she first thought - deadly serious. She honestly can't help but wonder if she is ultimately doing the right thing; or should she just forget about everything, sell the property, and escape back to the safety of Vermont. While she believes that this would probably be the most appropriate course of action, Maggie can't forget what her aunt always said: "antiques are filled with stories - secrets just waiting to be discovered."
Maggie finds herself finally understanding what her aunt meant - she definitely wants to satisfy her own curiosity about this particular mystery. Will Maggie be able to make sense of it all before it's too late? And is Somerset Harbor really the best place to start this new chapter in her life?
First of all, let me say that I really enjoyed reading this book. I haven't actually read that many cozy mysteries before, and would like to see where this series will eventually lead. I found the characters to be fairly well-developed and the mystery certainly held my attention all the way through. However, having said that, I have to admit that I became slightly confused by the uneven pacing of the mystery. All in all though, I would definitely give this book a B+!
She just wasn't expecting to make that change quite so soon. Maggie is surprised to learn that she has recently inherited some property from her aunt Evelyn. Apparently, her aunt has bequeathed to Maggie a stately nineteenth-century Colonial-style mansion, Sedgwick Manor, as well as the adjacent antique store - Carriage House Antiques - a charming little shop located in the seaside town of Somerset Harbor, Maine. Maggie has always dreamed of owning an antique store and discovering the various different stories that each particular item can tell.
However, she never suspected that some of those stories just might become relevant to her own life. While separating the inventory for the store and going through her aunt's various personal effects, Maggie discovers a photograph of her aunt hidden in the backing of an old mirror. She is astonished by the story apparently being told by this particular photo: because it's an impossible story; one full of mystery, danger and intrigue. Standing beside her aunt in the recent photograph is her Uncle George...a man who died twenty years ago.
Having enlisted the help of the members of the historical society - ladies who all knew Evelyn well - and James Bennett, an historic preservationist and handsome bachelor; Maggie begins her investigation into her aunt's final months. What she subsequently discovers about her Aunt Evelyn, as well as her Uncle George's past is disturbing to her. As her search for clues continues, it quickly becomes abundantly clear to Maggie that she is not the only person looking for answers. Someone desperately wants to know just what Maggie knows...and just how she knows it.
Cryptic messages and warnings are being left inside Sedgwick Manor, personal effects are being rifled through, and a U. S. Marshal arrives in town asking some very unsettling questions. Maggie soon realizes that this mystery is more serious than she first thought - deadly serious. She honestly can't help but wonder if she is ultimately doing the right thing; or should she just forget about everything, sell the property, and escape back to the safety of Vermont. While she believes that this would probably be the most appropriate course of action, Maggie can't forget what her aunt always said: "antiques are filled with stories - secrets just waiting to be discovered."
Maggie finds herself finally understanding what her aunt meant - she definitely wants to satisfy her own curiosity about this particular mystery. Will Maggie be able to make sense of it all before it's too late? And is Somerset Harbor really the best place to start this new chapter in her life?
First of all, let me say that I really enjoyed reading this book. I haven't actually read that many cozy mysteries before, and would like to see where this series will eventually lead. I found the characters to be fairly well-developed and the mystery certainly held my attention all the way through. However, having said that, I have to admit that I became slightly confused by the uneven pacing of the mystery. All in all though, I would definitely give this book a B+!
December 21, 2025
I enjoyed it. Nice cozy.
October 31, 2017
I really liked this book. It is like an adult Nancy Drew, with all the innocence intact. Following the clues and the well drawn characters was fun. The ending was very satisfying.
June 12, 2025
ANOTHER GRANDMA MYSTERY COMPLETED. Oviedo has the cutest used bookstore that I’ve been finding these at. I’m soooo going back today
October 14, 2024
The was the coziest mystery book I have ever read! It jumps right into the mystery and has a cliff hanger with every chapter! It is so cozy and spooky and I definitely 5-star-loved it!!!!! What’s even better as that it is completely clean and perfect for younger kids!
May 17, 2019
I had already read most of the books in this series when I came across Book 1 so I finally got to learn how it all began. Widowed Maggie Watson inherits her beloved ancestral home after the tragic death of her favorite aunt, who was killed in a car accident.
I need to make a sort of smart aleck comment here--Aunt Evelyn had died in a car accident. So had her husband, twenty years earlier. So had another character. Seems like people in Maine don't know how to drive.
That aside, Maggie finds a recent photo, hidden behind an old mirror, of her aunt, posing with her LONG DEAD HUSBAND. Instead of thinking maybe it's his twin, Maggie gathers up her new friends and goes on a hunt to see what people know about Uncle George, obviously back from the dead. But is he? And what does the ill-mannered US Marshal want? And why does Maggie agree to meet him deep in the woods for a brief conversation? Don't get me wrong, I do love these books, but the plots are a bit simplistic. And as I've mentioned before, there are plenty of typos in this book, which serves to throw me out of the story as I have to stop and ponder what the writer really wants to say. All in all, a quick, fun read, but I do wish the bar was set a bit higher.
I need to make a sort of smart aleck comment here--Aunt Evelyn had died in a car accident. So had her husband, twenty years earlier. So had another character. Seems like people in Maine don't know how to drive.
That aside, Maggie finds a recent photo, hidden behind an old mirror, of her aunt, posing with her LONG DEAD HUSBAND. Instead of thinking maybe it's his twin, Maggie gathers up her new friends and goes on a hunt to see what people know about Uncle George, obviously back from the dead. But is he? And what does the ill-mannered US Marshal want? And why does Maggie agree to meet him deep in the woods for a brief conversation? Don't get me wrong, I do love these books, but the plots are a bit simplistic. And as I've mentioned before, there are plenty of typos in this book, which serves to throw me out of the story as I have to stop and ponder what the writer really wants to say. All in all, a quick, fun read, but I do wish the bar was set a bit higher.
June 29, 2019
I usually don't read mysteries, but this was recommended to me so I read it and ended up liking it. It reminds me of a Hallmark movie in literary form. I will continue reading the next 3 books, which are readily available.
June 22, 2021
This book was pretty good for a cozy. I thought these books would be just like the Annie's attic mysteries since this one is written by Jan Fields. This one was better than I expected and I couldn't put it down.
October 16, 2025
When I picked this up at an estate sale, the idea of a family mystery intrigued me, and tying it to antiques seemed a terrific idea. The writing isn't great, but ok.
In terms of the story, I accurately guessed at a good part of it before I was halfway through. In cozy mysteries, there's also a line between boringly banal and too much suspense. This one didn't find that line for me. The first part was fine, but then it started getting pretty dark. I skipped through and found that's what was going to happen. That will probably work well for those who like more suspense, but I'd wanted something lighter, like the cozy mystery that the cover and description led me to expect. I'd have given it three stars because of that and because I found the mystery so predictable, but decided on four because some people won't experience it the same way.
In terms of the story, I accurately guessed at a good part of it before I was halfway through. In cozy mysteries, there's also a line between boringly banal and too much suspense. This one didn't find that line for me. The first part was fine, but then it started getting pretty dark. I skipped through and found that's what was going to happen. That will probably work well for those who like more suspense, but I'd wanted something lighter, like the cozy mystery that the cover and description led me to expect. I'd have given it three stars because of that and because I found the mystery so predictable, but decided on four because some people won't experience it the same way.
May 27, 2020
The ending redeemed the misgivings I had about this book. I was immediately put off by the large font, thin flimsy paper, and typos (for the cost I was expecting better quality). Content wise I was disappointed to see so many references to church. Not everyone that likes crafts is an old cat lady Jesus freak. Although I did like the cat part, and there are other books in Annie’s Fiction featuring a dog. The mystery itself and the idyllic cozy vibe are what ultimately matter for this genre, and I have to admit that this book nailed those aspects. I suppose I can “forgive” the flaws.. get it.. religion pun..
April 5, 2024
Picked this up from my library several times and finally completed it. It was a good start to an small town antique store cozy mystery series. In the first book you follow Maggie who inherits her Aunt’s house and antique shop after her aunt dies in a car accident. Maggie is in her 40’s and a widow who has a grown daughter who is in school. She used to visit her aunt as a child and loved the house and antique shop, but she’s questioning whether or not she can keep them or should sell. Weird things start happening in the relatively quiet small town after she finds a hidden photograph of her aunt and long dead uncle and she has to find out how this recently taken picture exists.
January 2, 2021
At first I wasn’t real sure about this book, started slow,....then picked up and I couldn’t stop reading but then close to the end it started getting slow again but then picked up and finished with a four star rating from me. It is book one of this series I don’t know if they all relate to one another or not,...but this ob3 was good (just hang in there during the slow spots).
As for my advanced pre teen readers I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to them. There was no cursing, no sexual issues etc just a nice myster
As for my advanced pre teen readers I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this book to them. There was no cursing, no sexual issues etc just a nice myster
June 16, 2024
4.5/5⭐️
I thought this was a perfect intro to this cozy mystery series. I have read many of the “Annie’s Attic” mysteries and I know this series comes from the same publishers/company. Each book is a different author, and I thought the author of this first book did a really great job at establishing the characters and their backgrounds. I also enjoyed all of the characters as well!
I appreciated this staying true to being a cozy mystery, but the author also added in some thrill at the end which made it highly enjoyable for me!
I’ll be excited to read more in the series.
I thought this was a perfect intro to this cozy mystery series. I have read many of the “Annie’s Attic” mysteries and I know this series comes from the same publishers/company. Each book is a different author, and I thought the author of this first book did a really great job at establishing the characters and their backgrounds. I also enjoyed all of the characters as well!
I appreciated this staying true to being a cozy mystery, but the author also added in some thrill at the end which made it highly enjoyable for me!
I’ll be excited to read more in the series.
March 9, 2024
Nice little mystery, kept me turning the pages. The books in Antique Shop Mysteries are fun to read and a nice break from the heavier mysteries/books I’ve been reading and quick to read. Not sure if I would spend my first night in a mansion by myself, though.
The next book is The Secrete Letter, looking forward to it.
The next book is The Secrete Letter, looking forward to it.
October 9, 2017
Sweet story with enough tension to satisfy the curious reader, while still making it an easy read filled with wonderful characters you want to know better. Somerset Harbor is my new Cabot Cove. Definitely a new favorite series!
August 23, 2022
Heartwarming, cozy mystery. The kind of mystery I like ( with the exception of Lisa Jewel ). All in all, I totally appreciate the clean cut-ness, the feeling of being intrigued and nothing questionable. Now starting the 2nd in the series.
March 20, 2023
Wholesome, light mystery. Reminded me of Nancy Drew/Hardy boys style but geared for adults. Had no idea who “did it” until the end. Book cover artwork is colorful, book itself well made with built in book marker ribbon. Looking forward to the other books in the series.
July 7, 2025
Squeaky clean cozy mystery! I read a review that likened it as a Nancy Drew for adults and i definitely agree with that! Everything was a little too perfect! But if you need an easy mystery to relax with then this is good. Especially if you like antiques!
September 11, 2025
Book is very 'wholesome'. Read like an old-time Nancy Drew Mystery. Kinda cheesy, nothing 'bad' ever happens to the heroine. Mystery wasn't an "omg moment". You could tell what happened very early on. But still a fun, quick read.
December 29, 2025
sweet quick read
This is my first book by Jan Fields. It’s a light read for pure enjoyment. Characters development is coming along nicely. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
This is my first book by Jan Fields. It’s a light read for pure enjoyment. Characters development is coming along nicely. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
January 13, 2026
A bit slower paced, which isn't bad at all, but also repetitive in many places, like she wanted to really foreshadow certain things. I got through the whole book, to find that it's setting up a series and doesn't really finish off the mystery, just the first part of it. I may pick up book two.
July 8, 2019
First in a series of cozy mysteries...very much like Annie’s Attic series but this one had a good mystery and a fast read.
January 31, 2020
Good story,short and a little slow.
March 30, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐💫
What a fun book to read. Maggie gets a call that her aunt has passed and she is left a manor and an antique shop. During her trip to speak with the lawyer and return to her memories of summers at the manor, she finds a mysterious photo that sets her on a path of adventure, mystery and danger.
What a fun book to read. Maggie gets a call that her aunt has passed and she is left a manor and an antique shop. During her trip to speak with the lawyer and return to her memories of summers at the manor, she finds a mysterious photo that sets her on a path of adventure, mystery and danger.
May 17, 2020
I actually give this a 4 1/2 I thought it would be preachy and goody-goody but it wasn't. I liked the mystery but I still had a few questions at the end.
October 13, 2020
This book turned out better then expected.
September 30, 2021
Great new series. A young women inherits a antique business and a huge house from her Aunt. Lots of mystery
February 20, 2022
I started reading this story and somehow never finished it till now. Glad I found it again as it was a really enjoyable read. Now on to book #2.
March 16, 2022
I was a good, mystery story. The plot twist was good, as well. Fun to read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews