What do you think?
Rate this book
Agnes Luthi Mysteries #2
A Well-Timed Murder
Swiss-American police officer Agnes Lüthi is on leave in Lausanne, Switzerland, recovering from injuries she sustained in her last case, when an old colleague invites her to the world’s premier watch and jewelry trade show at the grand Messe Basel Exhibition Hall. Little does Agnes know, another friend of hers, Julien Vallatton, is at the same trade show―and he’s looking for Agnes. Julien Vallatton was friends with Guy Chavanon, a master of one of Switzerland’s oldest arts: watchmaking. Chavanon died a week ago, and his daughter doesn’t believe his death was accidental. Shortly before he died, Chavanon boasted that he’d discovered a new technique that would revolutionize the watchmaking industry, and she believes he may have been killed for it. Reluctantly, Agnes agrees to investigate his death. But the world of Swiss watchmaking is guarded and secretive, and before she realizes it, Agnes may be walking straight into the path of a killer.
Tracee de Hahn's next mystery, A Well-Timed Murder, is another magnetic mystery that will engross readers from the opening page to the stunning conclusion.
Tracee de Hahn's next mystery, A Well-Timed Murder, is another magnetic mystery that will engross readers from the opening page to the stunning conclusion.
340 pages, Hardcover
Published February 6, 2018
26 people are currently reading
853 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
April 10, 2018
A Well Timed Murder by Tracee de Hahn is a 2018 Minotaur Books publication.
This second book in the Agnes Lüthi series, finds Agnes in Lausanne, Switzerland tailing an old adversary, although she is still technically on leave, after sustaining injuries in the line of duty. Surprisingly, she discovers that her friend Julien is also in Lausanne, and that a friend of his recently passed away quite suddenly. Before she knows it, Agnes has found herself embroiled in the case, which by all accounts appeared to be a tragic, accidental death. But, not everyone is convinced of that, which gives Agnes a side case to work, before she officially returns to work.
I was very impressed with the first installment of this series and have been eagerly anticipating this follow up. I enjoyed the location, which is a nice change of pace, and I really like Agnes. This story is centered around the Swiss tradition, pride, and reputation of precision watch making. With the possibility of a new breakthrough technology that would revolutionize the industry, it just might be possible Julien’s friend was murdered in order to steal his secrets.
The world of watch making is a fascinating one, and again, this is not a topic that comes up often in mysteries, which is a refreshing change of pace, too. The mystery has many complexities, and more than one thread that could give an ample motive for murder. As with the first book, this one does not move at a super -fast clip, but builds slowly, which could require a bit of patience for some, but it adds so much depth, deep characterizations, and creates a tantalizing atmosphere the further the mystery deepens.
I didn’t quite connect with Agnes in the same way as I did in the first book, maybe because she doesn’t need my sympathy in quite the same way as before. However, her personal life is still tethered to her former husband, via her mother-in-law, with whom she has a complicated relationship. But, the case Agnes catches is so very puzzling, it more than made up for the reduced time spent with Agnes’ profound inner musings.
While the cover of the book might suggest a cozy mystery format, this is pretty much a police procedural and while there is a lack of explicit content, and the language is mostly mild, the mystery almost reminds me of the noir style.
While it is not necessary to read the first book in order to enjoy this one, I do recommend adding it at some point, as it does explain details about Agnes' personal life that will deepen your understanding of her character and enhance your enjoyment of this book. But, all in all, this is an excellent follow up book, very solid, interesting and detailed. I am very much looking forward to Agnes’ next big case!
This second book in the Agnes Lüthi series, finds Agnes in Lausanne, Switzerland tailing an old adversary, although she is still technically on leave, after sustaining injuries in the line of duty. Surprisingly, she discovers that her friend Julien is also in Lausanne, and that a friend of his recently passed away quite suddenly. Before she knows it, Agnes has found herself embroiled in the case, which by all accounts appeared to be a tragic, accidental death. But, not everyone is convinced of that, which gives Agnes a side case to work, before she officially returns to work.
I was very impressed with the first installment of this series and have been eagerly anticipating this follow up. I enjoyed the location, which is a nice change of pace, and I really like Agnes. This story is centered around the Swiss tradition, pride, and reputation of precision watch making. With the possibility of a new breakthrough technology that would revolutionize the industry, it just might be possible Julien’s friend was murdered in order to steal his secrets.
The world of watch making is a fascinating one, and again, this is not a topic that comes up often in mysteries, which is a refreshing change of pace, too. The mystery has many complexities, and more than one thread that could give an ample motive for murder. As with the first book, this one does not move at a super -fast clip, but builds slowly, which could require a bit of patience for some, but it adds so much depth, deep characterizations, and creates a tantalizing atmosphere the further the mystery deepens.
I didn’t quite connect with Agnes in the same way as I did in the first book, maybe because she doesn’t need my sympathy in quite the same way as before. However, her personal life is still tethered to her former husband, via her mother-in-law, with whom she has a complicated relationship. But, the case Agnes catches is so very puzzling, it more than made up for the reduced time spent with Agnes’ profound inner musings.
While the cover of the book might suggest a cozy mystery format, this is pretty much a police procedural and while there is a lack of explicit content, and the language is mostly mild, the mystery almost reminds me of the noir style.
While it is not necessary to read the first book in order to enjoy this one, I do recommend adding it at some point, as it does explain details about Agnes' personal life that will deepen your understanding of her character and enhance your enjoyment of this book. But, all in all, this is an excellent follow up book, very solid, interesting and detailed. I am very much looking forward to Agnes’ next big case!
December 7, 2017
"Swiss Made" denotes precision, attention to detail, and historical craftsmanship.
And mysteries that are tucked deftly amongst the snowy peaks of the Alps will certainly be in need of that attention to detail as well.
Just ask Inspector Agnes Luthi who has recently returned to her job in the Violent Crimes Division of Lausanne after suffering a serious knife wound to her leg. Her last case is detailed in Swiss Vendetta #1. (No worries, however. A well-Timed Murder does just fine as a standalone.) Agnes is a recent widow with three lively sons and a mother-in-law's quips that could melt cheese into fondue.
Agnes finds herself in a field operation at the prestigeous Basel Watch and Jewelry Show. Not only is she surrounded by priceless Swiss timepieces, but Agnes is now in the midst of a hit-an-run involving a sleek Ferrari and a not-so-sleek financial criminal by the name of The Roach. He has met his fate and has been flattened under the speeding tires so like many a creature of his species.
While waiting for further instructions, Agnes is alerted to the death of a famous Swiss watchmaker while attending a function at his son's elite school. Guy Chavanon suffered from a severe life-threatening peanut allergy all his life. Although initially deemed as an accidental death, Agnes and her team are not so sure. Chavanon had been working on something that would serve as a major advancement in the field of watchmaking.
Who would benefit from Chavanon's death directly and who was privy to the information into his secretive work? The line forms along the mountainside like skiers waiting for the ski lift. Agnes has her work cut out for her this time. Sifting through people and the paperwork of a watchmaking genius is gonna take time with no clock-watching allowed. And like a fine Swiss watch, it's the inner workings that determine the tick and the tock.
Tracee de Hahn presents another quality mystery here with the setting in the beautiful Swiss Alps. It adds a bit of melodrama in itself as to the characters, the countryside, and Swiss police procedures. De Hahn breathes life into the character of Agnes by creating her as typically human and typically modern woman. She's forced to juggle her career, her sons, and her blossoming personal life on the edge of some of the most serious of crimes. De Hahn infuses her storylines with intelligence and an analytical nature in Agnes. This continues to work in her favor.
I'm hooked on the Agnes Luthi Mysteries. Time is a tickin' for the next one, Tracee de Hahn.
I received a copy of A Well-Timed Murder through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Tracee de Hahan and to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity.
And mysteries that are tucked deftly amongst the snowy peaks of the Alps will certainly be in need of that attention to detail as well.
Just ask Inspector Agnes Luthi who has recently returned to her job in the Violent Crimes Division of Lausanne after suffering a serious knife wound to her leg. Her last case is detailed in Swiss Vendetta #1. (No worries, however. A well-Timed Murder does just fine as a standalone.) Agnes is a recent widow with three lively sons and a mother-in-law's quips that could melt cheese into fondue.
Agnes finds herself in a field operation at the prestigeous Basel Watch and Jewelry Show. Not only is she surrounded by priceless Swiss timepieces, but Agnes is now in the midst of a hit-an-run involving a sleek Ferrari and a not-so-sleek financial criminal by the name of The Roach. He has met his fate and has been flattened under the speeding tires so like many a creature of his species.
While waiting for further instructions, Agnes is alerted to the death of a famous Swiss watchmaker while attending a function at his son's elite school. Guy Chavanon suffered from a severe life-threatening peanut allergy all his life. Although initially deemed as an accidental death, Agnes and her team are not so sure. Chavanon had been working on something that would serve as a major advancement in the field of watchmaking.
Who would benefit from Chavanon's death directly and who was privy to the information into his secretive work? The line forms along the mountainside like skiers waiting for the ski lift. Agnes has her work cut out for her this time. Sifting through people and the paperwork of a watchmaking genius is gonna take time with no clock-watching allowed. And like a fine Swiss watch, it's the inner workings that determine the tick and the tock.
Tracee de Hahn presents another quality mystery here with the setting in the beautiful Swiss Alps. It adds a bit of melodrama in itself as to the characters, the countryside, and Swiss police procedures. De Hahn breathes life into the character of Agnes by creating her as typically human and typically modern woman. She's forced to juggle her career, her sons, and her blossoming personal life on the edge of some of the most serious of crimes. De Hahn infuses her storylines with intelligence and an analytical nature in Agnes. This continues to work in her favor.
I'm hooked on the Agnes Luthi Mysteries. Time is a tickin' for the next one, Tracee de Hahn.
I received a copy of A Well-Timed Murder through NetGalley for an honest review. My thanks to Tracee de Hahan and to St. Martin's Press for the opportunity.
November 26, 2017
I love this mystery series. Agnes Luthi is an intriguing, likeable and effective police officer, and the Swiss setting is unique and enjoyable. Tracee de Hahn creates a fascinating mystery while also including cultural details, Swiss customs and personality traits, and information about the Swiss towns she includes. The Swiss watchmaking industry is at the heart of A Well-Timed Murder (hence the clever title), and I loved learning more about the secretive and competitive industry. Her characters are well-drawn and realistic, and the mystery at the heart of the story is well-done. I also enjoyed the relationship developing between Agnes and Julien Vallotton.
As I mentioned in one of my previous reviews, I am enamored with mysteries set in locales with which I am not very familiar: the Georges Dupin series by Jean-Luc Bannalec set in Brittany, the Foreign Affairs series by Nick Wilkshire set in numerous locales, the Detective Kubu series by Michael Stanley set in Botswana, the Baby Ganesh series by Vaseem Khan set in India, and last but certainly not least the Agnes Luthi series. Other than traveling to these various places (which I would love to do some day), there is no better way to learn about them then reading a great mystery. I certainly learned a lot about this region of Switzerland, particularly those towns focused on watchmaking.
I highly recommend this book and the previous one in the series, Swiss Vendetta. Thanks to Minotaur Books for my advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
As I mentioned in one of my previous reviews, I am enamored with mysteries set in locales with which I am not very familiar: the Georges Dupin series by Jean-Luc Bannalec set in Brittany, the Foreign Affairs series by Nick Wilkshire set in numerous locales, the Detective Kubu series by Michael Stanley set in Botswana, the Baby Ganesh series by Vaseem Khan set in India, and last but certainly not least the Agnes Luthi series. Other than traveling to these various places (which I would love to do some day), there is no better way to learn about them then reading a great mystery. I certainly learned a lot about this region of Switzerland, particularly those towns focused on watchmaking.
I highly recommend this book and the previous one in the series, Swiss Vendetta. Thanks to Minotaur Books for my advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
March 9, 2018
I have been curious about this series since the first time I set my eyes on the first book. So, when I got this chance, to read the sequel did I go for it. Now, since I haven't read the first book is this my first introduction to Agnes Luthi, but this is definitely a book you can read as a stand-alone.
Swiss police officer Agnes Luthi's friend Julien Vallotton contacts her because a friend of his, Guy Chavanon a watchmaking, has died and the daughter doesn't believe it's an accident. Guy Chavanon had a severe allergy towards nuts and it was what killed him. However, there are no traces of nuts in the milieu where he was, nothing in the food, etc. Also, he seemed to have discovered something that would revolutionize the watchmaking industry before he died.
I found the setting of Switzerland to be a welcome change of scenery. I've been looking for some new crime series set in new environments and this one felt like a nice to the usual the UK or the US setting. Agnes Luthi is an interesting character, and since this is the first book I read about her I have the disadvantage of not knowing much about her. However, I learned a lot of about her in this book, about her family and the tragic circumstances of her husband's death some month's before.
As for the case, I won't lie, I did think it took a while for the story to really get going. Since it's a crime novel one knew that something is amiss, the death of Guy Chavanon is suspicious, but why would anyone kill him, if it is murder, and if it is foul play, how did it happen? Or is there something else going one, it's hard to know since the people in Guy Chavanon life is now acting suspiciously. Thankfully Agnes Luthi is tenacious.
I found the book interesting and I'm looking forward to reading the first book in the series since I want to know more about Agnes Luthi, not to mention her "friend" Julien Vallotton.
Swiss police officer Agnes Luthi's friend Julien Vallotton contacts her because a friend of his, Guy Chavanon a watchmaking, has died and the daughter doesn't believe it's an accident. Guy Chavanon had a severe allergy towards nuts and it was what killed him. However, there are no traces of nuts in the milieu where he was, nothing in the food, etc. Also, he seemed to have discovered something that would revolutionize the watchmaking industry before he died.
I found the setting of Switzerland to be a welcome change of scenery. I've been looking for some new crime series set in new environments and this one felt like a nice to the usual the UK or the US setting. Agnes Luthi is an interesting character, and since this is the first book I read about her I have the disadvantage of not knowing much about her. However, I learned a lot of about her in this book, about her family and the tragic circumstances of her husband's death some month's before.
As for the case, I won't lie, I did think it took a while for the story to really get going. Since it's a crime novel one knew that something is amiss, the death of Guy Chavanon is suspicious, but why would anyone kill him, if it is murder, and if it is foul play, how did it happen? Or is there something else going one, it's hard to know since the people in Guy Chavanon life is now acting suspiciously. Thankfully Agnes Luthi is tenacious.
I found the book interesting and I'm looking forward to reading the first book in the series since I want to know more about Agnes Luthi, not to mention her "friend" Julien Vallotton.
June 25, 2018
This is an enjoyable book with a quadruple mystery and lots of details - second in the Agnes Lüthi Mystery series. Author's architectural background is quite evident in the description of the various classic Swiss chalets, modern villa and various exposition buildings. The characters are many with sufficient description to form one's opinions early on. Several red herrings keep you going right through to the end. I loved this book as much as the first in the series.
January 28, 2018
A Well Timed-Murder is the second book in a series that follows Agnes, a Swiss police officer. I regrettably haven’t read the first installment but I had no problem beginning the book here as the author did a fine job of providing the relevant background information that I missed. Having said that, I do wish I had the time to start at the beginning because what is mentioned about the past sounds dang good, so start with book one if you like the sound of this one.
I haven’t read many books set in Switzerland so this provided a unique and fresh point of view that I throughly enjoyed. I had NO idea that the Swiss watchmaking industry was so secretive, cutthroat and and surprisingly interesting, but it was truly fascinating. Agnes is a likable lead with a compassionate side that endeared her to me and I would love to see more of her character. I would recommend this for fans of classic murder mysteries that also like rich atmospheres and complex plots.
A Well-Timed Murder in three words: Notable, Engaging and Refined.
I haven’t read many books set in Switzerland so this provided a unique and fresh point of view that I throughly enjoyed. I had NO idea that the Swiss watchmaking industry was so secretive, cutthroat and and surprisingly interesting, but it was truly fascinating. Agnes is a likable lead with a compassionate side that endeared her to me and I would love to see more of her character. I would recommend this for fans of classic murder mysteries that also like rich atmospheres and complex plots.
A Well-Timed Murder in three words: Notable, Engaging and Refined.
February 7, 2018
Reviewed at The Power of Words: http://bit.ly/2nKzYmt
A Well-Timed Murder is an engrossing story that reminds me of how much I enjoy traditional mysteries. Tracee de Hahn is an excellent writer, capably using her gift of words to draw readers into the Swiss culture, landscape, and competitive world of watchmaking. This is a complex story that is rich in characterization, yet easy to follow. Fascinating detail about the watchmaking industry adds depth to a haunting story that held me captive from the very beginning.
It’s always interesting to see how the police force functions in other countries, and the Swiss setting brings a unique and fresh touch to this genre. Agnes Lüthi, recovering from a previous injury and also the death of her husband, is an appealing character that I was quickly drawn to. Assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit, Agnes is intriguing, compassionate, and extremely intelligent. Some backstory is given from the first book, enough to make me determined to read it soon, but this story easily stands alone.
A Well-Timed Murder is aptly described in the summary above as a “magnetic mystery” and I couldn’t agree more. So many things call out to the reader – the victim’s family dynamics and creative genius, a boarding school where all isn’t as it should be, a red herring or two, and even possible romance. This story is impressive and I’m hooked on the series.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
A Well-Timed Murder is an engrossing story that reminds me of how much I enjoy traditional mysteries. Tracee de Hahn is an excellent writer, capably using her gift of words to draw readers into the Swiss culture, landscape, and competitive world of watchmaking. This is a complex story that is rich in characterization, yet easy to follow. Fascinating detail about the watchmaking industry adds depth to a haunting story that held me captive from the very beginning.
It’s always interesting to see how the police force functions in other countries, and the Swiss setting brings a unique and fresh touch to this genre. Agnes Lüthi, recovering from a previous injury and also the death of her husband, is an appealing character that I was quickly drawn to. Assigned to the Violent Crimes Unit, Agnes is intriguing, compassionate, and extremely intelligent. Some backstory is given from the first book, enough to make me determined to read it soon, but this story easily stands alone.
A Well-Timed Murder is aptly described in the summary above as a “magnetic mystery” and I couldn’t agree more. So many things call out to the reader – the victim’s family dynamics and creative genius, a boarding school where all isn’t as it should be, a red herring or two, and even possible romance. This story is impressive and I’m hooked on the series.
Highly recommended.
I was provided a copy of this book through Great Escapes Tours. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
February 21, 2018
I have eye balled the first book in this series but never read it. After reading this book, I will have to go back and check it out. This is a fun, cozy read. Plus, I found the cast of characters to be personable and entertaining. Although, the star was Agnes. She was lovely but intelligent as well. Additionally, I like that she did not get scared so easily.
The mystery of the case that Agnes was solving was intriguing. Who knew that the latest technology in the watch business was so deadly. While, some of the clues were obvious and I was not so easily fooled; it was still entertaining to read this book and see how Agnes would put all of the clues together to solve the mystery. Fans of cozy mysteries should check out this book.
The mystery of the case that Agnes was solving was intriguing. Who knew that the latest technology in the watch business was so deadly. While, some of the clues were obvious and I was not so easily fooled; it was still entertaining to read this book and see how Agnes would put all of the clues together to solve the mystery. Fans of cozy mysteries should check out this book.
January 14, 2019
Questo libro mi è piaciuto un filo meno del precedente: l'ho trovato un po' lento e, se devo dirla tutta, l'indagine sulla morte dell'orologiaio mi ha coinvolto meno di quella svolta nella scuola privata... Alla fin fine avevo capito chi fosse il colpevole in entrambi i casi, ma un paio di volte l'autrice mi ha fatto dubitare del mio giudizio. Spero che questa serie continui perché continuo a trovarla interessante.
January 5, 2018
An excellent mystery in an atmospheric Swiss setting.
February 11, 2018
Another solid entry in the Agnes Lüthi Mystery series! A Well-Timed Murder by Tracee de Hahn is a great follow-up to Swiss Vendetta, the first book in the Agnes Lüthi Mysteries. Set in modern day Switzerland and set about three weeks after the events in Swiss Vendetta, we are thrust right back in Agnes’s daily life as she is recuperating from her injury and about to return to her work in Violent Crimes. Agnes is called by her friend Julien to investigate the death of his friend, the watchmaker Guy Chavanon.
I liked the mystery here. Once again Tracee de Hahn has written a spellbinding mystery with nods to classic whodunits, and I enjoyed trying to figure it out. I was suspicious of the murderer almost right away, but couldn’t ever figure out why, so I liked sifting through the clues and weeding out the red herrings.
As with Swiss Vendetta, I really enjoyed the character of Agnes Lüthi. She’s calm and collected, with an educated eye, and I like reading her control of the situation. I really love classic style murder mysteries, ones where the main character studies the crime scene, and interviews all of the suspects, and A Well-Timed Murder followed this style well. We get a bit of Agnes’s personal life outside of the murder investigation, but not so much where it overshadows the murder. I like it when mysteries are focused on the case at hand, and not so much all of the extra stuff going on, and so I enjoyed this.
As much of the mystery centers around the Swiss watch industry, I found the setting fascinating. I liked hearing about how the use of quartz altered the industry, and would like to know more. One thing that slightly irritated me was that in the synopsis it mentions Chavanon’s new technique in regards to watches. This technique was never explained that I could see, and so that was a bit frustrating. I wanted to know what the technique was and how it would change the industry!
I’m so far very pleased with this series. It’s only two books so far, but there’s something quiet and smart about Agnes that I just love, and I enjoy that so far the mysteries have been clean and engaging. I don’t care for a lot of gore, sex, and language in the mysteries I read, and so I’m enjoying this series quite a bit.
Bottom Line: A great addition to the Agnes Lüthi Mysteries!
***I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of A Well-Timed Murder provided by the publisher via NetGalley. This review first posted on my blog, luvtoread.***
I liked the mystery here. Once again Tracee de Hahn has written a spellbinding mystery with nods to classic whodunits, and I enjoyed trying to figure it out. I was suspicious of the murderer almost right away, but couldn’t ever figure out why, so I liked sifting through the clues and weeding out the red herrings.
As with Swiss Vendetta, I really enjoyed the character of Agnes Lüthi. She’s calm and collected, with an educated eye, and I like reading her control of the situation. I really love classic style murder mysteries, ones where the main character studies the crime scene, and interviews all of the suspects, and A Well-Timed Murder followed this style well. We get a bit of Agnes’s personal life outside of the murder investigation, but not so much where it overshadows the murder. I like it when mysteries are focused on the case at hand, and not so much all of the extra stuff going on, and so I enjoyed this.
As much of the mystery centers around the Swiss watch industry, I found the setting fascinating. I liked hearing about how the use of quartz altered the industry, and would like to know more. One thing that slightly irritated me was that in the synopsis it mentions Chavanon’s new technique in regards to watches. This technique was never explained that I could see, and so that was a bit frustrating. I wanted to know what the technique was and how it would change the industry!
I’m so far very pleased with this series. It’s only two books so far, but there’s something quiet and smart about Agnes that I just love, and I enjoy that so far the mysteries have been clean and engaging. I don’t care for a lot of gore, sex, and language in the mysteries I read, and so I’m enjoying this series quite a bit.
Bottom Line: A great addition to the Agnes Lüthi Mysteries!
***I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of A Well-Timed Murder provided by the publisher via NetGalley. This review first posted on my blog, luvtoread.***
February 12, 2023
Very good! Just the right amount of cute and suspense.
March 8, 2021
It was okay. :-) A quick read, a bit predictable. Characters didn't have a lot of substance.
February 6, 2018
This is the second book in Tracee de Hahn's Agnes Lüthi series and like the first book, Swiss Vendetta, the setting of Switzerland in A Well-Timed Murder is particularly well done. I also enjoyed learning about the history of watchmaking, and Lüthi still has her well-developed eye for the telling detail as well as her ability to put all those clues together.
The beginning and the end of this book flowed smoothly and certainly kept my interest, but A Well-Timed Murder, to an even greater degree than the first book in the series, suffers from "too much middle" when the pace drags and the story begins to lose its focus. I'm in a quandary. I truly enjoy the setting and the main character, but I do not like reading a book where I find myself wanting to skim through the middle third. Will I read the next book? I do not know.
The beginning and the end of this book flowed smoothly and certainly kept my interest, but A Well-Timed Murder, to an even greater degree than the first book in the series, suffers from "too much middle" when the pace drags and the story begins to lose its focus. I'm in a quandary. I truly enjoy the setting and the main character, but I do not like reading a book where I find myself wanting to skim through the middle third. Will I read the next book? I do not know.
February 6, 2018
Review to follow
December 19, 2017
3.5 stars
Last year I read the first book in the Agnes Luthi series by Tracee de Hahn--Swiss Vendetta which I thoroughly enjoyed. A Well-Timed Murder is the second in the series.
Injured on her last case, Agnes is still on leave when she is asked by a former colleague to assist in the take-down of a criminal that she had chased in her previous job in financial crimes. Agnes and her colleague are at the premier watch and jewelry show Baselworld, where the world's most important watch and jewelry brands present their latest work. And so, as it turns out, is Julien Vallotton, who has come to ask a favor of Agnes.
https://www.swissglam.ch/2017/04/18/b...
Julien wants Agnes to check into the death of Guy Chavanon, whose death was listed as accidental. Guy's daughter, however, believes there is more to her father's death than an allergic reaction.
Something I never considered is how the introduction of digital time pieces affected the Swiss watch-making industry. It appears that Guy Chavanon, who had a reputation for big ideas, but little follow-through, may have finally come up with something that might revolutionize the industry. If so, and many doubt it, money and reputations would be at stake. There are also some goings-on at a distinguished boarding school attended by Guy's young son.
The setting in Switzerland is just one reason I like these books. :)
Read in November; blog review scheduled for Jan. 18, 2018.
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Mystery/Police Procedural. Feb. 6, 2018. Print length: 352 pages.
Last year I read the first book in the Agnes Luthi series by Tracee de Hahn--Swiss Vendetta which I thoroughly enjoyed. A Well-Timed Murder is the second in the series.
Injured on her last case, Agnes is still on leave when she is asked by a former colleague to assist in the take-down of a criminal that she had chased in her previous job in financial crimes. Agnes and her colleague are at the premier watch and jewelry show Baselworld, where the world's most important watch and jewelry brands present their latest work. And so, as it turns out, is Julien Vallotton, who has come to ask a favor of Agnes.
https://www.swissglam.ch/2017/04/18/b...
Julien wants Agnes to check into the death of Guy Chavanon, whose death was listed as accidental. Guy's daughter, however, believes there is more to her father's death than an allergic reaction.
Something I never considered is how the introduction of digital time pieces affected the Swiss watch-making industry. It appears that Guy Chavanon, who had a reputation for big ideas, but little follow-through, may have finally come up with something that might revolutionize the industry. If so, and many doubt it, money and reputations would be at stake. There are also some goings-on at a distinguished boarding school attended by Guy's young son.
The setting in Switzerland is just one reason I like these books. :)
Read in November; blog review scheduled for Jan. 18, 2018.
NetGalley/St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books
Mystery/Police Procedural. Feb. 6, 2018. Print length: 352 pages.
February 12, 2018
Agnes Lüthi will have a quite complicated case to investigate full of possible killers, but just one motive possible, something that could change the watch business... Ready?
This is a low-paved story, complex and full of characters that will keep you glued to the pages till the last moment. Sometimes the plot was a little too slow and I was a little lost with so many characters, but I was delighted with the original plot and all the layers inside!
Agnes' life has not been easy lately, so she could understand grieving and that when someone passes away with strange circumstances the family needs to know the truth. But, while she is trying to discover the truth she will uncover a few secrets... Because every clue Agnes discovers it goes to the private school were the victim passed away... was he the target or some of the students of the private school? And what are the weird lights that move around the forest at night? Do they have anything to do with the killing? So many secrets!
I have to say I missed a little more of background of the main character, Agnes, the book was too focused on the mystery that it felt a little cold, a human touch. This is the second book of the series of the "Agnes Lüthi Mysteries", so maybe I had to read first the "Swiss Vendetta" to fully understand her...
In the main story we will see first sight how competitive a business could be and that sadly, everyone is ready to kill for a good idea!
Ready for a timed murder?
This is a low-paved story, complex and full of characters that will keep you glued to the pages till the last moment. Sometimes the plot was a little too slow and I was a little lost with so many characters, but I was delighted with the original plot and all the layers inside!
Agnes' life has not been easy lately, so she could understand grieving and that when someone passes away with strange circumstances the family needs to know the truth. But, while she is trying to discover the truth she will uncover a few secrets... Because every clue Agnes discovers it goes to the private school were the victim passed away... was he the target or some of the students of the private school? And what are the weird lights that move around the forest at night? Do they have anything to do with the killing? So many secrets!
I have to say I missed a little more of background of the main character, Agnes, the book was too focused on the mystery that it felt a little cold, a human touch. This is the second book of the series of the "Agnes Lüthi Mysteries", so maybe I had to read first the "Swiss Vendetta" to fully understand her...
In the main story we will see first sight how competitive a business could be and that sadly, everyone is ready to kill for a good idea!
Ready for a timed murder?
March 1, 2018
I appreciate a novel that takes me to a new location and offers information on a new topic. The author introduced me to the secretive world of high end watch making in Switzerland. I found out that a watchmaker might make only one watch a year. Some watches contain microscopic parts, sky charts, or elaborately engraved cases. These watches might cost the same as an automobile.
There was more to the novel than watches, however. Some of the action takes place at a boarding school for boys. That raised the issue of what being at such a school might indicate about the boy's family dynamics. I was also reminded of the differences in various cultures and society levels of the world. Sometimes personal actions are seen very differently by people, depending upon cultural norms.
The plot of this novel is personality driven and has little suspense until the very end. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a thoughtful investigator that methodically works through interviews to deduce the murderer as well as being immersed in an intriguing part of Swiss manufacturing. This is the second novel featuring Agnes Luthi but the first I have read. While I enjoyed this one, I feel I would have understood her more had I read the first in the series. Agnes is a detective I appreciate and I will be watching for the next in this series.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
There was more to the novel than watches, however. Some of the action takes place at a boarding school for boys. That raised the issue of what being at such a school might indicate about the boy's family dynamics. I was also reminded of the differences in various cultures and society levels of the world. Sometimes personal actions are seen very differently by people, depending upon cultural norms.
The plot of this novel is personality driven and has little suspense until the very end. I recommend this novel to readers who enjoy a thoughtful investigator that methodically works through interviews to deduce the murderer as well as being immersed in an intriguing part of Swiss manufacturing. This is the second novel featuring Agnes Luthi but the first I have read. While I enjoyed this one, I feel I would have understood her more had I read the first in the series. Agnes is a detective I appreciate and I will be watching for the next in this series.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
March 17, 2018
It took me a while to get caught up in this book but I am happy I stayed with it. Not having read the previous book was a disadvantage at first but I believe all my questions were eventually answered. At times I felt like this was a book I should read with a whiteboard by my side, helping me figure out relationships and clues.
Agnes Lüthi used to be a detective with Financial Crimes, but since a recent injury and the death of her husband, she has been recruited to the Violent Crimes division. She finds herself at the center of several mysteries before she has officially accepted the position. She is still dealing emotionally with the changes in her life as well as the lives of her young sons. All of this, experience and emotion, comes into play again and again throughout the book.
There is an abundance of descriptive offering which some readers may not appreciate as much as others. I felt there was enough to make this into a screenplay for a well-accepted BBC series. Various settings played as much of a role in solving the murders and understanding the emotional impact as did other clues.
This is not a cozy mystery, both because of the main characters professions and due to the procedural aspects. This is traditional noir and well done.
Agnes Lüthi used to be a detective with Financial Crimes, but since a recent injury and the death of her husband, she has been recruited to the Violent Crimes division. She finds herself at the center of several mysteries before she has officially accepted the position. She is still dealing emotionally with the changes in her life as well as the lives of her young sons. All of this, experience and emotion, comes into play again and again throughout the book.
There is an abundance of descriptive offering which some readers may not appreciate as much as others. I felt there was enough to make this into a screenplay for a well-accepted BBC series. Various settings played as much of a role in solving the murders and understanding the emotional impact as did other clues.
This is not a cozy mystery, both because of the main characters professions and due to the procedural aspects. This is traditional noir and well done.
November 29, 2017
Thank you to NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed de Hahn's first book, Swiss Vendetta, and she's in top form for her second entry in the series. There are plenty of clues and a few red herrings, and if readers piece things out carefully they can solve the mystery along with Detective Luthi. I was confused about the sidestory of "The Roach" and the mysterious "most beautiful woman in the world" - villains from her days in Financial Crimes division - perhaps they will factor into book 3?
Readers will want to start with book 1 so they understand Luthi's references to her late husband and his betrayal. Also to understand the budding relationship between her and M. Vallotton (which still feels a bit awkward and forced). I want to root for her happy ending, but her husband's only been dead for 4 months and she has three children we never see and she really is a Plain Jane - why the fascination from a wealthy playboy?
Otherwise fantastic. I also enjoyed the window into the swiss watch industry - fascinating! I'll never look at quartz technology the same way again. Can't wait for book 3!
I really enjoyed de Hahn's first book, Swiss Vendetta, and she's in top form for her second entry in the series. There are plenty of clues and a few red herrings, and if readers piece things out carefully they can solve the mystery along with Detective Luthi. I was confused about the sidestory of "The Roach" and the mysterious "most beautiful woman in the world" - villains from her days in Financial Crimes division - perhaps they will factor into book 3?
Readers will want to start with book 1 so they understand Luthi's references to her late husband and his betrayal. Also to understand the budding relationship between her and M. Vallotton (which still feels a bit awkward and forced). I want to root for her happy ending, but her husband's only been dead for 4 months and she has three children we never see and she really is a Plain Jane - why the fascination from a wealthy playboy?
Otherwise fantastic. I also enjoyed the window into the swiss watch industry - fascinating! I'll never look at quartz technology the same way again. Can't wait for book 3!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2017
I loved the first entry in this series, Swiss Vendetta and had high hopes for this one. I was not in the least bit disappointed. The problem? I read it so fast and enjoyed it so much that I'm in that period of down in the dumps realizing that I have to wait for #3.
Agnes is a wonderful, well drawn character. She has to balance her job with the Violent Crimes Unit, widowhood, raising her sons, a possible future romantic relationship and, oh, her mother-in-law. Agnes was wounded in her last case and has been on leave, recovering. She is at Basel World amid the most awesome watches on the planet. (I have a love of watches, old and new, so I was hooked on that alone) Watches and watch making intrigue me and when an equally well crafted mystery is added, I did not hesitate to give it five stars. A Well-Timed Murder can be read as a stand alone. But be warned, once you have finished you will be eager to get started on Swiss Vendetta. Agnes Luthi is now, firmly, sitting in my list of top 10 favorite female characters.
My thanks to the publisher St. Martin's and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Agnes is a wonderful, well drawn character. She has to balance her job with the Violent Crimes Unit, widowhood, raising her sons, a possible future romantic relationship and, oh, her mother-in-law. Agnes was wounded in her last case and has been on leave, recovering. She is at Basel World amid the most awesome watches on the planet. (I have a love of watches, old and new, so I was hooked on that alone) Watches and watch making intrigue me and when an equally well crafted mystery is added, I did not hesitate to give it five stars. A Well-Timed Murder can be read as a stand alone. But be warned, once you have finished you will be eager to get started on Swiss Vendetta. Agnes Luthi is now, firmly, sitting in my list of top 10 favorite female characters.
My thanks to the publisher St. Martin's and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 31, 2018
I love to dive right into a fast paced murder mystery and this was definitely action packed from page one. Agnes Luthi is a very likable character and a brilliant police officer. I enjoyed the setting which was in Switzerland and could picture all the scenes there. This book is the second in the Agnes Luthi series but you do not have to read the first book in order to follow along with this one. I wish that I had read the first and will be reading that soon because Agnes’s backstory sounds intriguing. The author does a great job though with providing just enough background information on Agnes without giving too much away from the first book. I loved reading about the cutthroat and highly secretive watch industry and the title is quite clever given the subject matter of the book! The story was well written with a very interesting plot and I became quite attached to Agnes. I have found a new mystery series in a beautiful setting. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
December 18, 2017
I was given an advance copy by someone who is a more full-time reviewer after they finished and I loved it! The attention to setting made me feel like I was in Switzerland and the details (including some historical detail) brought everything to life. I went back and read the first one after reading this (you don't have to read Swiss Vendetta to enjoy A Well-timed Murder) and I'm hooked on the series. Agnes Luthi is a great character - a real person who I think I'd like to meet - and I'd certainly like to spend a few days with her so I can meet the people she knows. Watches are at the heart of this mystery and the author provides enough detail to let someone not in the know (like me) feel like we're in a foreign world that's no longer foreign. I really enjoyed this book and hope there are many more in the series.
February 1, 2018
I loved the first book in this series because Agnes Luthi was a fresh, unique character. A Swiss American, she's an investigator first of financial crimes but now of homicides. She's also a widow with a nascent romance. You can read this as a standalone and possibly enjoy it more than I did because I was pulling memories of the first to put some of the characters in context. If I have a quibble, its that the characters are less well drawn this time, perhaps because there are a lot more of them. On the positive side, I enjoyed learning about the Swiss watch industry, which is at the root of this well researched novel. There's a red herring in the mystery and also some interesting sideways issues. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a good read and a series I recommend to those looking for a new female protagonist.
February 22, 2018
This is the second story in the Agnes Luthi mystery series...a Swiss-born detective with American parents. There is a lot of focus on Swiss culture and their view of "outsiders"...aka, those without generations of Swiss roots. This book takes place just weeks after the first story, Agnes Luthi is still healing and thrust into a mystery, the murder of a Swiss watchmaker. I loved the detail about the industry...which completely fascinates me. We also see the return of a familiar face in Julien Vallotton. This story was an engaging as the first one...with the author doing a wonderful job of providing background, as well as setting the perfect cozy-mystery tone. I am so glad that I stumbled across this new series and I can't wait to see what comes next.
I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
I received a copy of this title from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
May 16, 2019
International intrigue....who killed the Swiss watchmaker and why?
Although Inspector Luthi is still on leave from her last investigation, she gets pulled into a mysterious death that officials are calling an accident but the daughter is calling murder. Such a clever investigation that takes us from a watchmakers studio, a boys boarding school, to Baselworld (an annual love fest for watch lovers, when the industry descends on Basel, Switzerland, to see the biggest new releases from dozens of brands).
The first death that propels the story is that of a prominent watchmaker who mysteriously dies from his peanut allergy while visiting his son at the boarding school. How it all unravels and the final reveal was as sweet as chocolate and the murder weapon rather devious.
One of my favorite quotes! "Giberti looked like a lifetime of despair dressed in a fine suit" p. 172.
Although Inspector Luthi is still on leave from her last investigation, she gets pulled into a mysterious death that officials are calling an accident but the daughter is calling murder. Such a clever investigation that takes us from a watchmakers studio, a boys boarding school, to Baselworld (an annual love fest for watch lovers, when the industry descends on Basel, Switzerland, to see the biggest new releases from dozens of brands).
The first death that propels the story is that of a prominent watchmaker who mysteriously dies from his peanut allergy while visiting his son at the boarding school. How it all unravels and the final reveal was as sweet as chocolate and the murder weapon rather devious.
One of my favorite quotes! "Giberti looked like a lifetime of despair dressed in a fine suit" p. 172.
September 14, 2020
Swiss Police detective Agnes Luthi is recovering from injuries received on her last case when she is asked to investigate a possible murder. Did a Swiss watchmaker die from inhaling peanut dust accidentally, or was it planned? As Agnes learns more about the watchmaking industry and the main players involved, she isn't sure, but continues to investigate every possibility. Secrets abound, jealousies persist, and an expensive private school for young males is involved. I didn't enjoy this one as much as the first in the series, but you might. It's always fun to learn about a different culture and country.
January 27, 2018
A few days before returning to work in the Violent Crimes Unit because of injures sustained in a previous case, Agnes Lüthi meets friend Julien Vallatton at a watch and jewelry trade show. Where he introduces her to Christine Chavanon who believes that the death of her father, Guy, a watchmaker was not an accident and wishes Agnes to investigate.
An interesting and enjoyable mystery, with characters I have come to like. Although it is the second in the series it is a standalone novel.
ANetGalley Book
An interesting and enjoyable mystery, with characters I have come to like. Although it is the second in the series it is a standalone novel.
ANetGalley Book
October 18, 2020
For most of the book I expected to give a three star rating. This mystery takes place in Switzerland and uses a watch industry trade show called Baselworld as a backdrop to introduce too many characters, and name drop too many watch companies...
It’s been more than three years since I read the first book in the series, and just couldn’t remember the back story on some of the repeat characters. Kept hoping for some filler than never happened.
It turns out, I liked the characters and the ending after all.
It’s been more than three years since I read the first book in the series, and just couldn’t remember the back story on some of the repeat characters. Kept hoping for some filler than never happened.
It turns out, I liked the characters and the ending after all.
April 29, 2022
It took ages to get into, and talked endlessly about watches, which I find I am not interested in. I felt like a kid in the middle of a boring lecture.
It wasn’t until nearly 200 pages in that the book started to pick up and there was actual hints at action.
The author however; does a wonderful job at keeping you guessing and with the two mysteries solved in the book in the last 100 or so pages. It has a very sweet ending that wraps the story in a pretty little bow, but unfortunately it’s not one I would recommend due to how slow it was to start.
Maybe if I befriend a watch lover.
It wasn’t until nearly 200 pages in that the book started to pick up and there was actual hints at action.
The author however; does a wonderful job at keeping you guessing and with the two mysteries solved in the book in the last 100 or so pages. It has a very sweet ending that wraps the story in a pretty little bow, but unfortunately it’s not one I would recommend due to how slow it was to start.
Maybe if I befriend a watch lover.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews