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Vintage Toyshop Mystery #2
Murder on the Toy Town Express
Liz McCall has come to love running her father's vintage toyshop back home in East Aurora, NY, so when the Train and Toy Show comes to town, she's all aboard for a fun toy-filled weekend. The only hitch is that her childhood bully Craig McFadden, now local business rival, has set up a booth next to hers. But the fun and games are over when Craig falls from the ceiling in a publicity stunt gone wrong.
What was initially thought to be a fatal accident proves much more sinister. Pulled into the case by her feelings for both Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart whose brother is one the prime suspects, Liz dives headfirst into the investigation. But as she digs deeper, she's shocked to learn her father may have been the intended target.
The trouble train is barreling down and Liz may have just bought herself a first class ticket in Murder on the Toy Town Express, Barbara Early's delightful second installment in her Vintage Toyshop mysteries.
What was initially thought to be a fatal accident proves much more sinister. Pulled into the case by her feelings for both Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart whose brother is one the prime suspects, Liz dives headfirst into the investigation. But as she digs deeper, she's shocked to learn her father may have been the intended target.
The trouble train is barreling down and Liz may have just bought herself a first class ticket in Murder on the Toy Town Express, Barbara Early's delightful second installment in her Vintage Toyshop mysteries.
300 pages, Hardcover
First published October 10, 2017
19 people are currently reading
1245 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Early
12 books256 followersBarbara Early earned an engineering degree, but after four years of doing nothing but math, developed a sudden allergy to the subject and decided to choose another occupation. Before she settled on murdering fictional people, she was a secretary, a school teacher, a pastor’s wife, and an amateur puppeteer. After several years living elsewhere, she and her husband moved back to her native Western New York State, where she enjoys cooking, crafts, classic movies and campy seventies television, board games, and posting pictures of her four cats on Facebook. She writes the Vintage Toyshop series and the Bridal Bouquet Shop Mysteries (as Beverly Allen).
barbaraearly.com
barbaraearly.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
September 5, 2017
This is the 2nd book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series. Even though I didn't get a chance to read the first book before diving into this one, I was able to follow the plot just fine and didn't feel lost. The only thing that I missed out on was the backstory behind Liz McCall's love life, but that's ok because after enjoying this story, I intend to go back and read the first book too.
Liz McCall manages her dad's retro toy shop, and attends a trade show, where she meets up with a childhood bully named Craig McFadden who is now also in the business.
At the trade show, Craig is killed in what is at first believed to be an accident (don't worry, this isn't a spoiler), but is soon investigated as a possible murder. Liz and her dad investigate the crime together, and in doing so uncover a twist in the plot.
My favorite parts of the story were the relationship between Liz and her dad, as well as her romantic interests.
I anticipate that the romance in Liz's life will heat up even more in the next book. Overall this was a cute fast book to read, and was highly enjoyable.
Thanks to Netgalley.
Liz McCall manages her dad's retro toy shop, and attends a trade show, where she meets up with a childhood bully named Craig McFadden who is now also in the business.
At the trade show, Craig is killed in what is at first believed to be an accident (don't worry, this isn't a spoiler), but is soon investigated as a possible murder. Liz and her dad investigate the crime together, and in doing so uncover a twist in the plot.
My favorite parts of the story were the relationship between Liz and her dad, as well as her romantic interests.
I anticipate that the romance in Liz's life will heat up even more in the next book. Overall this was a cute fast book to read, and was highly enjoyable.
Thanks to Netgalley.
September 12, 2017
Liz McCall has settled into her job as the manager of her father's vintage toy shop in East Aurora, NY when the Train and Toy Show comes to town. Liz and her retired police officer father decide they will set up a booth at the show to showcase some of the toys from their shop. The show should be a lot of fun but Liz finds that her childhood bully, Craig McFadden, is also at the show and now their business competition with a booth set up right next to theirs.
The show is going well when everyone spies Craig up in the rafters of the building walking around when suddenly he falls right into a display. Rushed off to the hospital everyone first thinks Craig's publicity stunt just went wrong and he's had a horrible accident. But when clues start pointing to there being more to Craig's fall and possibly even her father as the real target Liz once again finds herself investigating the case.
Murder on the Toy Town Express is the second book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series by Barbara Early. Each book in the series is a cozy mystery that features a different case so the books can pass as standalones if desired although there would be a slight bit of character building missing that occurred in the first book.
This cozy series has all of the fun elements that I enjoy from the genre, likable characters and a fun, unique setting along with a believable investigation from our main character with a bit of help from her ex-police father. I would warn that while any romance is extremely background in the stories there is a bit of a love triangle angle with two potential romantic interests for Liz but it seems put in more for involvement with the case than an actual push towards romance. I'll be looking forward to the next installment in the series and what's in store for our characters in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
The show is going well when everyone spies Craig up in the rafters of the building walking around when suddenly he falls right into a display. Rushed off to the hospital everyone first thinks Craig's publicity stunt just went wrong and he's had a horrible accident. But when clues start pointing to there being more to Craig's fall and possibly even her father as the real target Liz once again finds herself investigating the case.
Murder on the Toy Town Express is the second book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series by Barbara Early. Each book in the series is a cozy mystery that features a different case so the books can pass as standalones if desired although there would be a slight bit of character building missing that occurred in the first book.
This cozy series has all of the fun elements that I enjoy from the genre, likable characters and a fun, unique setting along with a believable investigation from our main character with a bit of help from her ex-police father. I would warn that while any romance is extremely background in the stories there is a bit of a love triangle angle with two potential romantic interests for Liz but it seems put in more for involvement with the case than an actual push towards romance. I'll be looking forward to the next installment in the series and what's in store for our characters in the future.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.wordpress....
October 10, 2017
Conductor . . . I mean author Barbara Early takes her readers on the ride of a life time! Toot Toot!
Having loved the first book in this series, DEATH OF A TOY SOLDIER, I couldn’t wait to hop on board book two, MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS. Oh my goodness! It was well worth the wait!
Like a kid to a toy store, Barbara Early lured me into this second installment of the Vintage Toyshop Mysteries. From the first line of this book that had me laughing, the exciting mystery throughout, until the last line which left me sighing contentedly, I read this book straight through.
I am besotted with the characters in this murderously delightful series. Liz McCall, and her father, Hank, have a wonderful relationship that causes my heart to smile. Another favorite of mine is Liz’s sister-in-law, Cathy. I would so love working with them in their toyshop, Well Played. I could see us becoming fast friends.
MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS was an exceptional mystery. Even with the victim being someone who deserved what he got, I was wrapped up in the investigation of who killed him and why. Following along one twisting and turning dead end track after another, when I finally reached the end of the line in this story, I couldn’t have been more surprised. Game well played, Ms. Early.
Don’t let anything derail you from reading MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS!
Having loved the first book in this series, DEATH OF A TOY SOLDIER, I couldn’t wait to hop on board book two, MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS. Oh my goodness! It was well worth the wait!
Like a kid to a toy store, Barbara Early lured me into this second installment of the Vintage Toyshop Mysteries. From the first line of this book that had me laughing, the exciting mystery throughout, until the last line which left me sighing contentedly, I read this book straight through.
I am besotted with the characters in this murderously delightful series. Liz McCall, and her father, Hank, have a wonderful relationship that causes my heart to smile. Another favorite of mine is Liz’s sister-in-law, Cathy. I would so love working with them in their toyshop, Well Played. I could see us becoming fast friends.
MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS was an exceptional mystery. Even with the victim being someone who deserved what he got, I was wrapped up in the investigation of who killed him and why. Following along one twisting and turning dead end track after another, when I finally reached the end of the line in this story, I couldn’t have been more surprised. Game well played, Ms. Early.
Don’t let anything derail you from reading MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS!
October 13, 2017
The Toy and Train Expo has come to town, and Liz McCall and her father have a booth for their vintage toy shop, Well Played. Their booth is next to a face from Liz’s past, Craig McFadden, who used to bully Liz in school. Craig has some big announcement to make this weekend, but before he can, he plunges off the cat walk in the convention center. What’s going on?
I never really grew up, so a series set in a vintage toy shop has me smiling from page one. The fact that the story is strong and kept me guessing only helps. The characters are wonderful, and I’d love to meet Liz and her family. There are significant developments in the romantic triangle introduced in the previous book. Add in a strong dose of humor thanks to certain events and Liz’s father’s love of puns, and you’ve got a winning book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I never really grew up, so a series set in a vintage toy shop has me smiling from page one. The fact that the story is strong and kept me guessing only helps. The characters are wonderful, and I’d love to meet Liz and her family. There are significant developments in the romantic triangle introduced in the previous book. Add in a strong dose of humor thanks to certain events and Liz’s father’s love of puns, and you’ve got a winning book.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
October 21, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Choo! Choo! All Aboard for another fun mystery from Barbara Early!!
The toy and train show has come to East Aurora, New York and Liz McCall and her family have a booth to sell their vintage toys. Liz McCall is a little nervous because an awful blast from her past, Craig McFadden, has the booth right next to hers selling his comic books. It is bad enough that he has a store across the street from their toy shop, Well Played, does she have to see him for the whole weekend. She quickly meets his clerk and learns she will be running the booth, because Craig has something special planned. I don’t think dying was what he had in mind, but that is what happened. Accident… publicity stunt… one moment he was on the catwalk, then he was in the air and then he laid among the rubble of the disaster he created to a model train town. Was it murder?? Her dad, the retired police chief finds himself in the middle of the investigation and so does Liz when her high school boyfriend’s brother becomes a prime suspect and she finds her dad may have been the original target.
All the characters I loved in the first story are back. The relationship between Liz and her dad is heartwarming and uplifting. The whole family pulls together to help with the shop and the booth. It is a true family business. They also have many loyal customers that show up for their nightly board game events. Well Played is a family gem in a day of the big box stores.
Now the victim, he was a bully from back in grade school right up until the day he died. He didn’t have any friends and Liz even questioned if he would be missed. He was the perfect victim and while I never wish anyone dead, I was not sorry to see him go.
Ms. Early has written quite a puzzling mystery and I may be off my “game” but she had me so twisted, turned, and off the “track” that I pulled in the station right along with Liz. I had an OMG moment when I read that final twist. The plot was very exciting but the author threw in some funny instances too. There is also a bit of a romantic triangle going on. Liz is dating her high school crush and the new police chief. Her dad is giving her more than a little nudge to finally decide between the two. The author had me on board from the first page to the last.
So we have wonderful characters, a fun theme, an excellent mystery, with humor and romance. For me that chugs this story right into the depot as an absolutely perfect escape. Climb aboard, this is a story you don’t want to miss.
Choo! Choo! All Aboard for another fun mystery from Barbara Early!!
The toy and train show has come to East Aurora, New York and Liz McCall and her family have a booth to sell their vintage toys. Liz McCall is a little nervous because an awful blast from her past, Craig McFadden, has the booth right next to hers selling his comic books. It is bad enough that he has a store across the street from their toy shop, Well Played, does she have to see him for the whole weekend. She quickly meets his clerk and learns she will be running the booth, because Craig has something special planned. I don’t think dying was what he had in mind, but that is what happened. Accident… publicity stunt… one moment he was on the catwalk, then he was in the air and then he laid among the rubble of the disaster he created to a model train town. Was it murder?? Her dad, the retired police chief finds himself in the middle of the investigation and so does Liz when her high school boyfriend’s brother becomes a prime suspect and she finds her dad may have been the original target.
All the characters I loved in the first story are back. The relationship between Liz and her dad is heartwarming and uplifting. The whole family pulls together to help with the shop and the booth. It is a true family business. They also have many loyal customers that show up for their nightly board game events. Well Played is a family gem in a day of the big box stores.
Now the victim, he was a bully from back in grade school right up until the day he died. He didn’t have any friends and Liz even questioned if he would be missed. He was the perfect victim and while I never wish anyone dead, I was not sorry to see him go.
Ms. Early has written quite a puzzling mystery and I may be off my “game” but she had me so twisted, turned, and off the “track” that I pulled in the station right along with Liz. I had an OMG moment when I read that final twist. The plot was very exciting but the author threw in some funny instances too. There is also a bit of a romantic triangle going on. Liz is dating her high school crush and the new police chief. Her dad is giving her more than a little nudge to finally decide between the two. The author had me on board from the first page to the last.
So we have wonderful characters, a fun theme, an excellent mystery, with humor and romance. For me that chugs this story right into the depot as an absolutely perfect escape. Climb aboard, this is a story you don’t want to miss.
August 19, 2020
I think I start every review of a cozy mystery pretty much along the same lines: they're either horrendous or wonderful, with very little in between. I've even started developing a list of Cozy Cardinal Sins and tropes. Such as - -
1) Heroine is a small business owner
This book/series: check – but it's okay. This little shop sounds like it would be viable in real life; it's run by family; it sells something that legitimately can be lucrative.
2) There's a love triangle
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Normally this is a bad, bad idea – but it works here. The heroine has genuine affection for both men in her life, and it's handled in a way that feels fairly realistic.
3) Heroine is surrounded by wise-cracking family, friends, and co-workers.
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because it's funny. "'You have a mind like an elephant’s.' 'Yeah, wrinkled, gray, and way too much junk in the trunk. But that’s totally irrelephant.' I rolled my eyes and glared at him. Otherwise, he’d be making elephant jokes all day." That took the joke and pushed it too far – and it's so silly I had to smile.
4) Author thinks she's especially sharp, clever, and witty
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because she is. "Cathy’s fictional version was a little more embellished, containing spear guns, spies, bikinis, an occasional zombie, and a whole lot of steamy embraces. She insisted readers would need something spicier." "But Dad had spun his words as adeptly as some cult leader, playing on my pride, my craving for his approval, my sense of justice, and that infernal inherited curiosity. I said nothing, but my next sip of coffee tasted an awful lot like Kool-Aid." (It was Flavor Aid, but that's just quibbling.)
5) Author thinks she's skilled at metaphor and simile
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because she is. I don't think I've ever come across a description of someone's "stomach tied into a macramé plant hanger" before, and I like it. Oh, and this is lovely: "Jack’s mother was a riddle wrapped in a lemon inside a porcupine." I want to use that in conversation. One more: "If he’d looked any more sheepish, he’d be eating grass in the fields and sprouting a thick wool coat."
6) The plot is filled with red herrings and has elements that are over the top, far-fetched
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because Barbara Early can write. And she can plot. She can throw in a few left turns and wacky bits, and fold it into a story that hangs together and comes to a satisfying conclusion.
7) At least as important as the plot (if not more important) is the cast of characters
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because these characters have a depth that you don't usually see in a light read. The family that runs the toy shop at the center of the series has a legitimate history, and it's not all Norman Rockwell and jokes. These folks have been through stuff, and Barbara Early obviously feels a real warmth towards them. The beauty is that she writes them so well that I do too.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
1) Heroine is a small business owner
This book/series: check – but it's okay. This little shop sounds like it would be viable in real life; it's run by family; it sells something that legitimately can be lucrative.
2) There's a love triangle
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Normally this is a bad, bad idea – but it works here. The heroine has genuine affection for both men in her life, and it's handled in a way that feels fairly realistic.
3) Heroine is surrounded by wise-cracking family, friends, and co-workers.
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because it's funny. "'You have a mind like an elephant’s.' 'Yeah, wrinkled, gray, and way too much junk in the trunk. But that’s totally irrelephant.' I rolled my eyes and glared at him. Otherwise, he’d be making elephant jokes all day." That took the joke and pushed it too far – and it's so silly I had to smile.
4) Author thinks she's especially sharp, clever, and witty
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because she is. "Cathy’s fictional version was a little more embellished, containing spear guns, spies, bikinis, an occasional zombie, and a whole lot of steamy embraces. She insisted readers would need something spicier." "But Dad had spun his words as adeptly as some cult leader, playing on my pride, my craving for his approval, my sense of justice, and that infernal inherited curiosity. I said nothing, but my next sip of coffee tasted an awful lot like Kool-Aid." (It was Flavor Aid, but that's just quibbling.)
5) Author thinks she's skilled at metaphor and simile
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because she is. I don't think I've ever come across a description of someone's "stomach tied into a macramé plant hanger" before, and I like it. Oh, and this is lovely: "Jack’s mother was a riddle wrapped in a lemon inside a porcupine." I want to use that in conversation. One more: "If he’d looked any more sheepish, he’d be eating grass in the fields and sprouting a thick wool coat."
6) The plot is filled with red herrings and has elements that are over the top, far-fetched
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because Barbara Early can write. And she can plot. She can throw in a few left turns and wacky bits, and fold it into a story that hangs together and comes to a satisfying conclusion.
7) At least as important as the plot (if not more important) is the cast of characters
This book/series: check – but it's okay. Because these characters have a depth that you don't usually see in a light read. The family that runs the toy shop at the center of the series has a legitimate history, and it's not all Norman Rockwell and jokes. These folks have been through stuff, and Barbara Early obviously feels a real warmth towards them. The beauty is that she writes them so well that I do too.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
January 8, 2018
When Liz McCall accompanies her dad, Hank to an antique show featuring toy trains, murder’s just around the corner when Craig, a comic book seller, climbs to the catwalk area and plunges down landing on top of a train on display. He later dies at the hospital under suspicious circumstances. Once a cop, always a cop, Hank volunteers to help the police investigate after they discover some rare, high-dollar comic books missing from Craig’s booth.
There are actually several mysteries within this mystery, so to speak, and I enjoyed the story.
There are actually several mysteries within this mystery, so to speak, and I enjoyed the story.
October 17, 2017
Liz McCall runs a vintage toy shop, Well Played, in East Aurora, NY along with her father. The duo have a booth at the Toy and Train Expo. Liz expects the show to be a busy, but enjoyable event. Until she sees an enemy from her past. Her childhood nemesis, Craig McFadden, has a booth for his comic book shop set up right next to them. And Craig is still a jerk. His employee, Maxine, seems very nice and definitely competent, which makes the situation a bit better.
Liz's dad says that he has spotted some rather shady looking people at the expo. Liz thinks it might just be his former law enforcement career making him see criminals in any large crowd.....but strange things start to happen, culminating in Craig taking a swan dive from the cat walk of the expo building into the train display below. Was his fall an accident? Or something more sinister?
I used to own a comic book shop so all the discussion of comics, grading and selling collectibles was enjoyable for me. :) The author did a great job of portraying the collector crowd....and how they behave, or misbehave, at an expo event. The collectibles market can be fickle. People sometimes think they have a high dollar item and get rather upset when you have to tell them it's a reprint or too damaged to be worth anything. All those reality shows that portray people finding gems worth thousands in their attics made everyone believe they had a mint hidden away in their home. :)
I love the idea of a retired police officer running a vintage toy shop with his daughter. The fact that the father still has his cop intuition was a great addition to the character. He notices people in the expo crowd behaving strangely.....and he was right! Liz is a strong, intelligent and determined main character. All of the side characters are believable and interesting. The toy and comic book background theme didn't overpower the mystery, but added to it. The mystery moved along at a good pace, with plenty of surprises and twists. I did not see the ending coming.....it caught me by surprise. But, it was one of those moments where I had to shake my head and say to myself that I should have seen it coming..... :) All in all, great cozy mystery!!
Murder on the Toy Town Express is the second book in the Vintage Toy Shop Mystery series. For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: http://www.barbaraearly.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
Liz's dad says that he has spotted some rather shady looking people at the expo. Liz thinks it might just be his former law enforcement career making him see criminals in any large crowd.....but strange things start to happen, culminating in Craig taking a swan dive from the cat walk of the expo building into the train display below. Was his fall an accident? Or something more sinister?
I used to own a comic book shop so all the discussion of comics, grading and selling collectibles was enjoyable for me. :) The author did a great job of portraying the collector crowd....and how they behave, or misbehave, at an expo event. The collectibles market can be fickle. People sometimes think they have a high dollar item and get rather upset when you have to tell them it's a reprint or too damaged to be worth anything. All those reality shows that portray people finding gems worth thousands in their attics made everyone believe they had a mint hidden away in their home. :)
I love the idea of a retired police officer running a vintage toy shop with his daughter. The fact that the father still has his cop intuition was a great addition to the character. He notices people in the expo crowd behaving strangely.....and he was right! Liz is a strong, intelligent and determined main character. All of the side characters are believable and interesting. The toy and comic book background theme didn't overpower the mystery, but added to it. The mystery moved along at a good pace, with plenty of surprises and twists. I did not see the ending coming.....it caught me by surprise. But, it was one of those moments where I had to shake my head and say to myself that I should have seen it coming..... :) All in all, great cozy mystery!!
Murder on the Toy Town Express is the second book in the Vintage Toy Shop Mystery series. For more information on the author and her books, check out her website: http://www.barbaraearly.com/
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
September 26, 2017
I finished Murder on the Toy Town Express by Barbara Early on September 16th. This is a first in the series for me and boy is it ever a fun one! I love toys, vintage and new and I love trains so I could very easily picture the setting and plot of this cozy murder mystery. While I was reading it I felt like I was walking the Train show with my friend Sheryl, a fellow toy and doll enthusiast as we followed main character Liz and her father around for the investigation. This series touched on a number of themes that actually related to my own life and I found this to be a very touching and relatable cozy! I did not clue into who the murderer really was until the reveal, maybe not wanting to just a tiny bit, lots of smaller twists and turns that keeps you wanting more! I am excited to see where this series goes next! Murder on the Toy Town Express comes out October 10th.
September 20, 2017
The second book in the Toy Top Series and I have not read the one first but I have read this author before and always enjoyed her. This will work as a stand-alone. The train and toy show has come to town. Liz McCall is looking forward to it until she learns that her childhood bully, Craig McFadden's comic book booth is next to the Toyshop one. That morning Craig climbs to the rafters and falls to the floor landing in an elaborate train display. Before the answer is found Liz will encounter greed, missing comics, mobsters, FBI, a missing mother, and a chance to add a section on comics to Toy Shop merchandise. I recommend you book.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Crooked Lane Books through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
December 17, 2021
This is book 2. If you love vintage toys. Like My Little Ponies , to Adam Family card game. And all different kinds of candies like Malt balls, Red Hots from your childhood. You will Love the books in the series. Hank ( Liz Father) Liz and Cathy ( Liz Sister in law) have a Vintage Toy Shop Well Played. That Hank owned after his retirement of law enforcement. Hank and Liz went to a Toy and Train convention. Liz found her old classmate Craig there he had a booth with comics he sold. Craig was a Pure bully. She was trying to avoid him. Maxine was Craig helpers. Liz befriended her. Some of the comics became missing. And all of a sudden Craig was on a catwalk in the convention. He fell, he was alive when he went to the hospital. But suddenly he died. Was it his ex girlfriend Amanda that did him in so she could get his money for their son. Was it the Actress Tippi that played Lexi Wolf to get his publishing for his own comics. Or was it something sinister. I read book 2 and 3. Love these plots and love the vintage Toy Shops collectibles that Barbara describes
November 11, 2017
I was really looking forward to reading this book. It is the second in Barbara Early's Vintage Toyshop Mysteries and I had thought long and hard about ordering the first, but it was a hard cover and I had never read anything by this author before so I was thrilled to receive a copy of Murder on the Toy Train Express as an ARC!!!!
I love the whole premise of this book who wouldn't love toys and games, the shop and different family members with different interests all working together. I did feel a little lost with background, as I have not read book one, so it took a little while to get a handle on Liz, but once I did I really liked her, the book starts running with a Toy and Train show at a local venue. Liz and company find their booth next to a local business man who bullied Liz as a child and before she can worry about it too much Craig falls from a catwalk, he appears to have been drugged, valuable comic books are missing from his booth, and the mob maybe involved. Liz, her retired police chief dad, and a current love interest, the present police chief means all will be involved!!!!!!!!
This was a really good mystery and there is a lot going on in the lives of family and friends so this book is packed and a good read!!!!!!
I love the whole premise of this book who wouldn't love toys and games, the shop and different family members with different interests all working together. I did feel a little lost with background, as I have not read book one, so it took a little while to get a handle on Liz, but once I did I really liked her, the book starts running with a Toy and Train show at a local venue. Liz and company find their booth next to a local business man who bullied Liz as a child and before she can worry about it too much Craig falls from a catwalk, he appears to have been drugged, valuable comic books are missing from his booth, and the mob maybe involved. Liz, her retired police chief dad, and a current love interest, the present police chief means all will be involved!!!!!!!!
This was a really good mystery and there is a lot going on in the lives of family and friends so this book is packed and a good read!!!!!!
July 23, 2017
This is the first book that I have read in this series and given that it is only book 2 I didn't think I would be too lost. I am happy to say that was the case. Other than Liz's relationship issues, I didn't feel like I missed too much. The setting of a vintage toy shop was unique and I found myself smiling with the nostalgia of the old toys and games mentioned in the book. Liz and her dad are fun characters and I liked that this was sort of a father/daughter crime solving duo. Both characters are well written and I thought the father/daughter bond felt genuine. The mystery was quite well done. I know I say this alot, but I did not know the identity of the killer until it was revealed.
This was an enjoyable read and I will be back to see what the author has in story for Liz, her dad and the rest of the characters in the future.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through Netgalley.
This was an enjoyable read and I will be back to see what the author has in story for Liz, her dad and the rest of the characters in the future.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through Netgalley.
January 29, 2018
Book 2 of the Vintage Toy Shop series was every bit as good as the first! This is shaping up to be a go-to series, and not just because I love the setting so much (and I'm with Liz about Sahlen's Hot Dogs, mmmm.) The twisty plot kept me guessing right up to the exciting ending, and there were a few "oh no way!" moments along the way. I love Liz's relationship with her dad, they make a great team and the running puns are always funny.
"You have a mind like an elephant's."
"Yeah, wrinkled, gray and way too much junk in the trunk. But that's totally irrelephant."
I felt bad for Liz in this one. I mean, what's wrong with a woman casually dating 2 guys? Apparently a lot, since Liz's family felt like they needed to nag her about it every 2 minutes. Can't a single girl have a little fun?
It was the plot that really stands out in this book, who killed Comic Book Craig and why? Craig wasn't a likeable guy by any means, and there were plenty of motives and suspects to keep me guessing, and the side plots added both a bit of fun and introduced new characters I hope to see more of in later books. The big plot twist at the end made for an exciting and satisfying conclusion and by the very last page, I was already dying (pun intended) to read the next book (October can't come soon enough!)
"You have a mind like an elephant's."
"Yeah, wrinkled, gray and way too much junk in the trunk. But that's totally irrelephant."
I felt bad for Liz in this one. I mean, what's wrong with a woman casually dating 2 guys? Apparently a lot, since Liz's family felt like they needed to nag her about it every 2 minutes. Can't a single girl have a little fun?
It was the plot that really stands out in this book, who killed Comic Book Craig and why? Craig wasn't a likeable guy by any means, and there were plenty of motives and suspects to keep me guessing, and the side plots added both a bit of fun and introduced new characters I hope to see more of in later books. The big plot twist at the end made for an exciting and satisfying conclusion and by the very last page, I was already dying (pun intended) to read the next book (October can't come soon enough!)
December 1, 2017
MURDER ON THE TOY TOWN EXPRESS by Barbara Early is the second book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series but the first one I’ve read… and I’m all onboard for reading the first one and catching up before the next book comes out. From the very first page I was captivated by the charming setting, the oh so funny train puns, and a mystery that not only kept me guessing but had me going “wow”. Ms. Early then wraps the entertainment up with a bombshell conclusion!
I greatly enjoyed getting to know the characters and despite not having read the first book, I never felt at a disadvantage. The author does a wonderful job making the reader feel like the characters are people you’ve known for a long time. The close relationship the protagonist, Liz McCall, has with her family and particularly her father, Hank, is very heartwarming. The family vintage toyshop, Well Played, is a place I would love to hang out. The descriptions and mentions of various games, toys, and candies brought back so many memories from my childhood. The nostalgic touch made this book even sweeter and I look forward to reading more in this series!
I was provided a copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I greatly enjoyed getting to know the characters and despite not having read the first book, I never felt at a disadvantage. The author does a wonderful job making the reader feel like the characters are people you’ve known for a long time. The close relationship the protagonist, Liz McCall, has with her family and particularly her father, Hank, is very heartwarming. The family vintage toyshop, Well Played, is a place I would love to hang out. The descriptions and mentions of various games, toys, and candies brought back so many memories from my childhood. The nostalgic touch made this book even sweeter and I look forward to reading more in this series!
I was provided a copy with the hopes I would review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 25, 2019
Setting: East Aurora, NY and the population of this small town is preparing the ‘train and toy’ show. Barbara Early’s
Murder on the Toy Town Express (Vintage Toyshop Mystery, #2) has Liz McCall, the protagonist, and her father, the retired chief of police, organizing their choices as one of the venders of the ‘train and toy’ show. The former chief’s dream is the vintage toy shop which Liz, having returned to East Aurora, totally enjoys working with her dad and all the vintage toys. Being a board game ‘fanatic’ does not hurt Liz’s retail position at The Vintage Toyshop either. The one problem is a former childhood bully, Craig McFadden, now a local business man is setting his ‘booth’ right next to The Vintage Toyshop. Craig is still not a very nice person, but his interests are comics. He is even planning to publish his own ‘Captain Inferno’ line of comics." Unfortunately, Craig falls and is critically injured during the ‘train and toy’ show, and his death ultimately occurs. Liz, her retired chief of police father, Ken, the present Chief of Police, among others, all become sleuths to attempt to uncover the murderer/s of this local business man. The characters are real, likeable or not and the plot quite plausible. Vintage toys appeal to me, especially certain board games. I like the mystery, presentation, characters and all! 4.5 stars!
Murder on the Toy Town Express (Vintage Toyshop Mystery, #2) has Liz McCall, the protagonist, and her father, the retired chief of police, organizing their choices as one of the venders of the ‘train and toy’ show. The former chief’s dream is the vintage toy shop which Liz, having returned to East Aurora, totally enjoys working with her dad and all the vintage toys. Being a board game ‘fanatic’ does not hurt Liz’s retail position at The Vintage Toyshop either. The one problem is a former childhood bully, Craig McFadden, now a local business man is setting his ‘booth’ right next to The Vintage Toyshop. Craig is still not a very nice person, but his interests are comics. He is even planning to publish his own ‘Captain Inferno’ line of comics." Unfortunately, Craig falls and is critically injured during the ‘train and toy’ show, and his death ultimately occurs. Liz, her retired chief of police father, Ken, the present Chief of Police, among others, all become sleuths to attempt to uncover the murderer/s of this local business man. The characters are real, likeable or not and the plot quite plausible. Vintage toys appeal to me, especially certain board games. I like the mystery, presentation, characters and all! 4.5 stars!
July 31, 2017
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
The first book in this series was one of my favorite cozy mystery reads last year so I immediately requested this book when I saw it pop up on netgalley. While I did think book 1 was a bit better, this book was still very good. I quickly got in the story, then a part seemed a bit slow, but once things start going wrong the pace really picked up again. I was lovely to be back in this town and the toy shop.
The mystery in this book was a good one again. It really kept me guessing, at first I had no clue who was the murderer. When the mystery progressed I mostly kept thinking the people who were suspects didn't seem quite right. There is a lot going on in this one and lots of people involved in some way which made for a great and complex mystery. It was hard to tell what was relevant or tied into the murder and what not and it made for an interesting touch. In the end I figured out who the murderer was seconds before the main character did. It suddenly clicked in place. And it was nice to see how everything tied together. I also liked how after they solve the mystery there is another chapter or so to wrap things up.
The first part of the book takes place at a toy and train show and lots of the important characters for this mystery are introduced there. The show was a fun set-up for this book, a bit like a convention with lots of sellers attending, but at the same time I was happy when they got back to their shop. The shop is just more fun to read about and I think it made for a better setting. I liked reading about the old toys and I really like that part of this story. The toy shop gives a nice flavor to this mystery and I really like reading about the shop and the characters.
Just as in the first book I enjoyed reading about Liz and her father, how they investigate the murder together and the punny jokes they make. I think they make for a fun duo and they work well together. I also though it felt believable how they got tied up in this murder investigation and I had a lot of fun reading this book. We meet some new side characters as well as some familiar ones. There are some new side characters that I think/ hope we'll see more of. There were some itnerestign twists/ development with the characters as well.
The romance also continues and at the end of this book I am not fully sure what to think of it. It felt like it turned into one big mess. At the end of the book 1 I saw potential in both love interests and thought they would both make a good match for Liz. At the end of this book I have completely changed my mind and I am hoping a third guy will pop up in book 3, because I just don't see things working out with these 2 in a way that would make me happy. Talk about a completely turn around. Although it was kinda different to see how things changed and developed here. I wasn't too happy with how Liz basically strings both men along at first and how she didn't take the time to really make a decisions, but sort of rolled into it, it felt very unsatisfying. So the romance in this book didn't quite work for me, but it was interesting to see things develop.
To summarize: Murder on the Toy Town express has a great setting and focus with the toy store, a fun daughter and dad duo trying to help solve the murder and a mystery that kept me guessing. I liked this second installment of the series and reading about this toy shop again. Liz and her father are fun to read about and I like reading about them. The mystery kept me guessing for a long time until I figured it out seconds before the main character did. The romance turned into a bit of a mess in this book and I hope another love interest will pop up in the next book, but it was kinda interesting seeing things develop, it sure wasn't what I had expected. I liked meeting some of the new side characters and hope to see of some of them in later books, as well as some already familiar side characters. There are some interesting changes and developments with the characters. This was a great sequel and I am looking forward to the next book!
The first book in this series was one of my favorite cozy mystery reads last year so I immediately requested this book when I saw it pop up on netgalley. While I did think book 1 was a bit better, this book was still very good. I quickly got in the story, then a part seemed a bit slow, but once things start going wrong the pace really picked up again. I was lovely to be back in this town and the toy shop.
The mystery in this book was a good one again. It really kept me guessing, at first I had no clue who was the murderer. When the mystery progressed I mostly kept thinking the people who were suspects didn't seem quite right. There is a lot going on in this one and lots of people involved in some way which made for a great and complex mystery. It was hard to tell what was relevant or tied into the murder and what not and it made for an interesting touch. In the end I figured out who the murderer was seconds before the main character did. It suddenly clicked in place. And it was nice to see how everything tied together. I also liked how after they solve the mystery there is another chapter or so to wrap things up.
The first part of the book takes place at a toy and train show and lots of the important characters for this mystery are introduced there. The show was a fun set-up for this book, a bit like a convention with lots of sellers attending, but at the same time I was happy when they got back to their shop. The shop is just more fun to read about and I think it made for a better setting. I liked reading about the old toys and I really like that part of this story. The toy shop gives a nice flavor to this mystery and I really like reading about the shop and the characters.
Just as in the first book I enjoyed reading about Liz and her father, how they investigate the murder together and the punny jokes they make. I think they make for a fun duo and they work well together. I also though it felt believable how they got tied up in this murder investigation and I had a lot of fun reading this book. We meet some new side characters as well as some familiar ones. There are some new side characters that I think/ hope we'll see more of. There were some itnerestign twists/ development with the characters as well.
The romance also continues and at the end of this book I am not fully sure what to think of it. It felt like it turned into one big mess. At the end of the book 1 I saw potential in both love interests and thought they would both make a good match for Liz. At the end of this book I have completely changed my mind and I am hoping a third guy will pop up in book 3, because I just don't see things working out with these 2 in a way that would make me happy. Talk about a completely turn around. Although it was kinda different to see how things changed and developed here. I wasn't too happy with how Liz basically strings both men along at first and how she didn't take the time to really make a decisions, but sort of rolled into it, it felt very unsatisfying. So the romance in this book didn't quite work for me, but it was interesting to see things develop.
To summarize: Murder on the Toy Town express has a great setting and focus with the toy store, a fun daughter and dad duo trying to help solve the murder and a mystery that kept me guessing. I liked this second installment of the series and reading about this toy shop again. Liz and her father are fun to read about and I like reading about them. The mystery kept me guessing for a long time until I figured it out seconds before the main character did. The romance turned into a bit of a mess in this book and I hope another love interest will pop up in the next book, but it was kinda interesting seeing things develop, it sure wasn't what I had expected. I liked meeting some of the new side characters and hope to see of some of them in later books, as well as some already familiar side characters. There are some interesting changes and developments with the characters. This was a great sequel and I am looking forward to the next book!
November 20, 2017
Murder on the Toy Town Express, the second in Barbara Early’s Vintage Toyshop mysteries, is a pure delight. Liz McCall and her father run Well Played, a vintage toy shop in East Aurora, New York. Liz’s father is a retired policeman who doesn’t always remember that he is retired, and despite her best efforts to remain focused on selling toys, Liz often finds herself pulled into investigations with her father.
This installment finds Liz and her father at a toy and train show. The booth next to theirs is manned by Craig McFadden, a former schoolmate of Liz’s who delighted in tormenting her when they were kids. Craig is planning on making a big announcement concerning his new comic series, Mr. Inferno. When the announcement goes horribly wrong and Craig falls from an upper catwalk onto a model train layout, Liz and her father investigate.
Liz is an immensely likeable sleuth and I found myself wanting to spend time with her beyond this book. She has a great sense of humor and is refreshingly honest. Her relationship with her father is heartwarming, and they have a game of exchanging puns that is utterly hilarious. (Depending on your liking for puns, you will either be chuckling happily or groaning in despair. Maybe a little of both). The vintage toy setup allows for lots of fun mentions and details of toys that those of us of a certain….er, vintage….will remember. Plus, there are also tons of cultural references to the 70s that also provide a smile.
The mystery itself was also well plotted. There are enough details, suspects, and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. I didn’t figure out who it was until right before the reveal.
Since I didn’t read the first book, Death of A Toy Soldier, I will be able to spend a little more time with Liz while I eagerly await the next installment of this charming series.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This installment finds Liz and her father at a toy and train show. The booth next to theirs is manned by Craig McFadden, a former schoolmate of Liz’s who delighted in tormenting her when they were kids. Craig is planning on making a big announcement concerning his new comic series, Mr. Inferno. When the announcement goes horribly wrong and Craig falls from an upper catwalk onto a model train layout, Liz and her father investigate.
Liz is an immensely likeable sleuth and I found myself wanting to spend time with her beyond this book. She has a great sense of humor and is refreshingly honest. Her relationship with her father is heartwarming, and they have a game of exchanging puns that is utterly hilarious. (Depending on your liking for puns, you will either be chuckling happily or groaning in despair. Maybe a little of both). The vintage toy setup allows for lots of fun mentions and details of toys that those of us of a certain….er, vintage….will remember. Plus, there are also tons of cultural references to the 70s that also provide a smile.
The mystery itself was also well plotted. There are enough details, suspects, and red herrings to keep the reader guessing. I didn’t figure out who it was until right before the reveal.
Since I didn’t read the first book, Death of A Toy Soldier, I will be able to spend a little more time with Liz while I eagerly await the next installment of this charming series.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2017
This book was both fun and nostalgic, and if you love old toys, games and mysteries, Murder on the Toy Town Express is for you. Well Played is the toy store owned by Liz McCall's "retired" police detective father, Hank McCall, and Liz has her hands full keeping the store running while also trying to prevent Hank from still trying to investigate crimes. When a suspicious death occurs at a Train and Toy Exhibition where Well Played has a booth, Liz's dad is brought into the investigation, and Liz decides she needs to help her father turn up clues and solve the mystery so he can get back to the business at hand.
This book has engaging characters as well as "memories" of all the fun games we played growing up. The toy store hosts a game night where residents of the town come to play a selection of the many vintage games the store has in stock just for that purpose. From Risk to Clue to Mousetrap and many others, a fun time is guaranteed, along with lots of town gossip. The town residents are interesting and quirky and fun to get to know. A particularly funny part of the book occurs at a "Clean Queen" party hosted by the Mayor's wife, and had me laughing out loud.
Murder at the Toy Town Express is the second book in Barbara Early's Vintage Toyshop Mysteries, but can definitely stand alone and does not contain any spoilers from the first book. If you love old games and a mystery that will definitely keep you guessing until the end, this book is for you.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book has engaging characters as well as "memories" of all the fun games we played growing up. The toy store hosts a game night where residents of the town come to play a selection of the many vintage games the store has in stock just for that purpose. From Risk to Clue to Mousetrap and many others, a fun time is guaranteed, along with lots of town gossip. The town residents are interesting and quirky and fun to get to know. A particularly funny part of the book occurs at a "Clean Queen" party hosted by the Mayor's wife, and had me laughing out loud.
Murder at the Toy Town Express is the second book in Barbara Early's Vintage Toyshop Mysteries, but can definitely stand alone and does not contain any spoilers from the first book. If you love old games and a mystery that will definitely keep you guessing until the end, this book is for you.
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 4, 2017
This is the second book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series. Liz and her dad are setting up a table in the Train and Toy Show. The table next door contains vintage comic books and is managed by business rival, Craig McFadden...also known as the school bully during Liz’s childhood. But as much as she disliked Craig, she was still sad when he accidentally fell to his death a short time later. But was it an accident or deliberate? As her father, a retired police officer, is brought in to the investigation, Liz finds herself also asking questions that may prove dangerous to her own safety. Of course, neither of her two male friends, Ken and Jack, are thrilled with her poking around in this case, but what are they to do! While I did not read the first book in this series, it was easy to pick up on the main characters and their relationships with each other. I loved the details of the vintage trains, toys, and comics. I enjoyed the details of the weekly vintage game night. And, I laughed at all of her Dad’s jokes and puns. Best of all, there were plenty of twists and turns as they explored one motive after another. Disclosure: I am voluntarily review an Advance Reading Copy of this book.
May 16, 2018
Liz and her father (Hank) are working a booth at the Train and Toy Show, she was looking forward to a good weekend when she realises that their booth is next to a comic book booth, and whilst this would not normally be a problem (in fact it could be beneficial for both shops) this comic book store and therefore the booth is run by Liz's childhood nemesis Craig. Even this wouldn't have been too much of a problem but the head of security is saying the comic books are obscene (thereby upsetting Craig's assistant) but then Craig does a swan dive from the gantry onto a large display of a model train set up!
When he ends up dying in the hospital later and it is discovered that it wasn't of natural causes Liz finds herself looking into what happened, as it seems that he had been drugged, but it was Hank's coffee he had drunk so was Hank the intended victim? Add in theft of some expensive comic books (with Jack's brother being a suspect in the theft) and Ken unable to investigate as he was there at one of the times when the coffee could have been doctored and Liz is finding that childhood dreams can turn into nightmares very quickly!
When he ends up dying in the hospital later and it is discovered that it wasn't of natural causes Liz finds herself looking into what happened, as it seems that he had been drugged, but it was Hank's coffee he had drunk so was Hank the intended victim? Add in theft of some expensive comic books (with Jack's brother being a suspect in the theft) and Ken unable to investigate as he was there at one of the times when the coffee could have been doctored and Liz is finding that childhood dreams can turn into nightmares very quickly!
December 8, 2017
If you are seeking a light and quick read than I recommend this book. The author is witty and has great vocabulary. You might find it odd that I point that out but for me its an important factor when reading a book. I enjoyed reading this book especially since it read so smoothly. I enjoyed the story and loved following the characters along the plot. I had not picked up books by this authors previously , but I will be doing so now that I have finished this one. I look forward to picking up more reads by Barbara Early.
August 29, 2018
Lizz Mc Call runs Well Played a vintage toy shop in East Aurora Ny with her Father. They have a booth at the toy and train expo. Lizz expects the event to be busy but fun until she sees her childhood nemesis Craig Mc Fadden he has the booth next to them for his comic book shop. He is still a jerk but his assistant manager seems nice. Before the event is over Lizz will encounter missing comic books, mobsters the FBI and a missing mother.
July 13, 2017
This was a fun read, very hard to put down. Loved the characters getting fleshed out and the twists and turns the story took. The cliffhanger at the end better have a good explanation in the third book!
September 16, 2017
Murder On The Toy Town Express
Vintage Toyshop Mystery, Book #2
Barbara Early
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Liz McCall has come to love running her father's vintage toyshop back home in East Aurora, NY, so when the Train and Toy Show comes to town, she's all aboard for a fun toy-filled weekend. The only hitch is that her childhood bully Craig McFadden, now local business rival, has set up a booth next to hers. But the fun and games are over when Craig falls from the ceiling in a publicity stunt gone wrong.
What was initially thought to be a fatal accident proves much more sinister. Pulled into the case by her feelings for both Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart whose brother is one the prime suspects, Liz dives headfirst into the investigation. But as she digs deeper, she's shocked to learn her father may have been the intended target.
The trouble train is barreling down and Liz may have just bought herself a first class ticket in Murder on the Toy Town Express, Barbara Early's delightful second installment in her Vintage Toyshop mysteries. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters really came alive for me in the pages of this book. Liz is a smart determined woman who is not afraid of hard work. She is also not afraid to stick her nose into police business, especially if it will help her any of her family or friends. She is close to her family, especially her dad. All of her nosiness she credits to him because, as the former police chief, he shared cases with her when she was younger. And although she is sort of dating Ken, the new police chief, she feels the need to help him solve the mystery of the death at the Train and Toy Show. She loves working puzzles and this is a real puzzler.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the story, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place around me and eavesdropping on conversations. I could see the trains set up at the show and hear the whistles blowing as the trains went around the track.
The mystery is well plotted and carried on well throughout the entire book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that it was not an easy mystery to solve. I did not figure out the culprit until it was revealed at the end and I was very surprised when I found out.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With great characters, a mystery that will keep you guessing and a theme that will have you reminiscing about your childhood, you do not want to miss this book.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
Vintage Toyshop Mystery, Book #2
Barbara Early
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Liz McCall has come to love running her father's vintage toyshop back home in East Aurora, NY, so when the Train and Toy Show comes to town, she's all aboard for a fun toy-filled weekend. The only hitch is that her childhood bully Craig McFadden, now local business rival, has set up a booth next to hers. But the fun and games are over when Craig falls from the ceiling in a publicity stunt gone wrong.
What was initially thought to be a fatal accident proves much more sinister. Pulled into the case by her feelings for both Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart whose brother is one the prime suspects, Liz dives headfirst into the investigation. But as she digs deeper, she's shocked to learn her father may have been the intended target.
The trouble train is barreling down and Liz may have just bought herself a first class ticket in Murder on the Toy Town Express, Barbara Early's delightful second installment in her Vintage Toyshop mysteries. (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters really came alive for me in the pages of this book. Liz is a smart determined woman who is not afraid of hard work. She is also not afraid to stick her nose into police business, especially if it will help her any of her family or friends. She is close to her family, especially her dad. All of her nosiness she credits to him because, as the former police chief, he shared cases with her when she was younger. And although she is sort of dating Ken, the new police chief, she feels the need to help him solve the mystery of the death at the Train and Toy Show. She loves working puzzles and this is a real puzzler.
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is an easy read. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and through much of the story, I felt like I was right there, watching all the action taking place around me and eavesdropping on conversations. I could see the trains set up at the show and hear the whistles blowing as the trains went around the track.
The mystery is well plotted and carried on well throughout the entire book. There were enough suspects to consider and clues to sift through that it was not an easy mystery to solve. I did not figure out the culprit until it was revealed at the end and I was very surprised when I found out.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. With great characters, a mystery that will keep you guessing and a theme that will have you reminiscing about your childhood, you do not want to miss this book.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this great book.
July 6, 2017
Murder on the Toy Town Express by Barbara Early is a fun story.
It was like a blast from the past reading about all the vintage toys that were so popular when I was growing up.
Liz is an extremely likeable character and I enjoyed meeting all the wonderful people in this story.
Comic books are all the rage in this story and when a sudden death hits close to home, Liz is soon wrapped up in the investigation.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
It was like a blast from the past reading about all the vintage toys that were so popular when I was growing up.
Liz is an extremely likeable character and I enjoyed meeting all the wonderful people in this story.
Comic books are all the rage in this story and when a sudden death hits close to home, Liz is soon wrapped up in the investigation.
I'm looking forward to reading more in this series.
I voluntarily read an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
December 11, 2017
If I could give this more than 5 stars, I would!! I will admit, I have met Ms. Early several times. I saw her again when I purchased it on release day in a small bookstore in East Aurora, where the mystery is located. Yes--like M&M's and Santa--it does exist. The author captures the essence of the town and Western New York to a "T". Do I go to Canada just to get Aero chocolate bars, lemon Crystal Beach suckers, and Coca-Cola without high fructose corn syrup? Absolutely! Yes the Buffalo Bills won in a mountain of snow yesterday, but Shakespeare in the Park is a free live performance of two plays, five nights per week in the summer. And Crystal Beach, Ontario was named for the sand being as soft as crystals. Please come visit our wonderful area and of course, Niagara Falls!!
Oh yes, you want to hear about the book too.. The mystery is cleverly plotted and reminded me of my favorite childhood game, Snakes and Ladders. Just when I thought I was getting close to the killer's identity...plot twist! And the romantic triangle also continues with Liz questioning her feelings between Jack and Ken. She makes a decision, only to discover.. Well, you'll just have to read that part.. No spoilers here!!
The book is extremely well-written and the dialogue between Liz and her father is so witty. I just can't recommend this cozy enough.. And for those of you who might be a bit stuck on the pricing, as compared to the 99 cent cozy, please remember that you get what you pay for.
Oh yes, you want to hear about the book too.. The mystery is cleverly plotted and reminded me of my favorite childhood game, Snakes and Ladders. Just when I thought I was getting close to the killer's identity...plot twist! And the romantic triangle also continues with Liz questioning her feelings between Jack and Ken. She makes a decision, only to discover.. Well, you'll just have to read that part.. No spoilers here!!
The book is extremely well-written and the dialogue between Liz and her father is so witty. I just can't recommend this cozy enough.. And for those of you who might be a bit stuck on the pricing, as compared to the 99 cent cozy, please remember that you get what you pay for.
July 10, 2017
It's a good thing I didn't write this review right after I finished Toy Town Express. I was livid with the ending and the whole love triangle issue. This is the third mystery I've read recently with the same situation. It would have gotten a one star review. Now that I'm cooled off, I'll go from didn't like to OK.
The mystery itself was interesting with the comic book element and the train/toy show though I figured out who did it right from the start, but not the exact motive. I would have enjoyed a bit more co-sleuthing moments with Liz and her dad. Her dad has a nice sized role, but more together would be better in terms of having a foil to play off of.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
The mystery itself was interesting with the comic book element and the train/toy show though I figured out who did it right from the start, but not the exact motive. I would have enjoyed a bit more co-sleuthing moments with Liz and her dad. Her dad has a nice sized role, but more together would be better in terms of having a foil to play off of.
I received my copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.
July 16, 2017
Title: Murder on the Toy Town Express: A Vintage Toyshop Mystery
Author: Barbara Early
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
Genre: Cozy/Mystery
Liz McCall run’s her father’s vintage toy shop in East Aurora, NY, especially the old board game section. When the Train and Toy Show comes to town, she and her father are all set for the weekend. Along with every other toy and memorabilia shop in the area. She did not expect her childhood bully, Craig McFadden, to be there, less alone set up a booth right next to hers. When Craig falls to his death in the middle of the show, she jumps in and starts asking questions. Was it really an accident, or was it murder?
Everyone thought that Craig died in an accident while doing a promotion stunt. Her “friends” Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart and his ex-con brother are not only involved but become suspects as well. When her father becomes enmeshed with the police investigation, Liz can’t wait to jump in and help. She soon realizes that her father may have been the actual target of the killer and not Craig. Can she unmask the killer before it’s too late?
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“Murder on the Toy Town Express” is the second book in Barbara Early’s, A Vintage Toyshop Mystery series. The story centers around Liz McCall and her former police officer father, Hank who owns a vintage toy shop. These two characters are wonderfully written and captivate the reader's imagination. Liz is a bit bossy and nosy; she didn’t inherit this trait from a stranger. Hank sticks his nose into police business at every chance. Keeping him “retired” isn’t easy. Liz, her brother, and her sister-in-law, Cathy are rarely successful at keeping him home and safe.
The love triangle aspect of the book is a bit tense. Liz can’t make up her mind if Ken and Jack are just friends or if they are something more. There are lots of twists and turns, and suspicions abound throughout the entire book. Relationship questions, family, and suspects, as well as the future, become paramount to the story. The questions that remain after the clues are collected will keep readers turning the page, and fill them with anticipation for the third installment.
Ms. Early has crafted a wonderfully exciting and impressive story. Murder on the Toy Town Express is well written, entertaining and filled with wonderful characters that are believable and likable with just enough human frailty to make them memorable. There are moments when the reader will laugh, be shocked, and become possessive of these characters.
This book and the series is happily recommended to readers of all types who enjoy their mystery with love and emotion mixed all together with crime and a location that is unusual and interesting. Readers of authors such as Vicki Delany or Leslie Meier will enjoy this book and this author.
Author: Barbara Early
Publisher: Crooked Lane Books
Genre: Cozy/Mystery
Liz McCall run’s her father’s vintage toy shop in East Aurora, NY, especially the old board game section. When the Train and Toy Show comes to town, she and her father are all set for the weekend. Along with every other toy and memorabilia shop in the area. She did not expect her childhood bully, Craig McFadden, to be there, less alone set up a booth right next to hers. When Craig falls to his death in the middle of the show, she jumps in and starts asking questions. Was it really an accident, or was it murder?
Everyone thought that Craig died in an accident while doing a promotion stunt. Her “friends” Ken, the police chief, and Jack, her high school sweetheart and his ex-con brother are not only involved but become suspects as well. When her father becomes enmeshed with the police investigation, Liz can’t wait to jump in and help. She soon realizes that her father may have been the actual target of the killer and not Craig. Can she unmask the killer before it’s too late?
--
“Murder on the Toy Town Express” is the second book in Barbara Early’s, A Vintage Toyshop Mystery series. The story centers around Liz McCall and her former police officer father, Hank who owns a vintage toy shop. These two characters are wonderfully written and captivate the reader's imagination. Liz is a bit bossy and nosy; she didn’t inherit this trait from a stranger. Hank sticks his nose into police business at every chance. Keeping him “retired” isn’t easy. Liz, her brother, and her sister-in-law, Cathy are rarely successful at keeping him home and safe.
The love triangle aspect of the book is a bit tense. Liz can’t make up her mind if Ken and Jack are just friends or if they are something more. There are lots of twists and turns, and suspicions abound throughout the entire book. Relationship questions, family, and suspects, as well as the future, become paramount to the story. The questions that remain after the clues are collected will keep readers turning the page, and fill them with anticipation for the third installment.
Ms. Early has crafted a wonderfully exciting and impressive story. Murder on the Toy Town Express is well written, entertaining and filled with wonderful characters that are believable and likable with just enough human frailty to make them memorable. There are moments when the reader will laugh, be shocked, and become possessive of these characters.
This book and the series is happily recommended to readers of all types who enjoy their mystery with love and emotion mixed all together with crime and a location that is unusual and interesting. Readers of authors such as Vicki Delany or Leslie Meier will enjoy this book and this author.
October 30, 2017
What would you do if your childhood bully was in an accident right in front of you and later died ? And it is ruled murder ? And if he was a business rival whose business was right across from your business ? What if you met his employee, liked her and felt sorry for her ? And what if your father was the retired chief of police ? Oh and you are sort of dating the new chief of police as well as the brother of one of the suspects ?
These are all questions that are asked of Liz McCall who is the main character in Murder on the Toy Town Express by Barbara Early. Liz does what any normal main character in a cozy mystery does...she dives head first into the investigation.....okay maybe head first isn't a great way to say it seeing as Craig McFadden falls to his death from a catwalk during a stunt at the Train and Toy Show.
There is a lot going on in Murder on the Toy Town Express but the way that Early writes and brings it all together seems effortlessly. Not only is she telling an attention getting story but she takes the reader down memory lane with her mention of nostalgic toys and comics. It is also amazing how Liz and her dad work together with each other and the lead investigator on the case. Especially with her dad retired there is a lot of respect among the group....which is a nice change when looking at other cozy mysteries. It's nice to see everyone getting along.
Early has a colorful cast of suspects in this story but when the dust clears and you find out who the guilty party is you will be blown away !!! I can almost guarantee that you will be as shocked as I was and you will want to go back and re-read it again......
One thing I ALWAYS do when I read a book is read the Author's Notes and Acknowledgments at the end of the book. This gives me a little more insight into the author and what they are about. This was the last paragraph in the Acknowledgment's section at the end of Murder on the Toy Town Express and I felt it needed sharing.
"And thanks to you, the reader. There are many books on the shelves, and you picked this one. I hope you've enjoyed the time we've spent together!"
There are a lot of books on the shelves and I HOPE that this is one that you, the reader, will choose. You will enjoy the time you spend with author Barbara Early. I know I did.
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