What do you think?
Rate this book
Ryli Sinclair Mystery #3
Just an Old-Fashioned Murder
The madcap duo of Ryli and Aunt Shirley have teamed up for yet another heartily humorous adventure in the town of Granville in the latest rollicking tale by author Jenna St. James. With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, Ryli Sinclair is in need of a front-page story for the Granville Gazette. Thankfully, it looks like Oak Grove Manor, the assisted living facility where Aunt Shirley lives, is just the hot bed of activity Ryli needs for a great story. Unfortunately, before Ryli can dig in too deep, Aunt Shirley is kicked out of the Manor for typical Aunt Shirley behavior. Now Ryli has no choice but to let Aunt Shirley stay with her. When the discovery of a dead body at the Manor leads to a murder investigation, there is a silver lining for Ryli. Aunt Shirley will be allowed back at Oak Grove Manor when the murder gets solved. Between being chased by killer Chihuahuas, jumping out of two-story windows, and getting schnockered with the old ladies across the hall, Ryli and Aunt Shirley must track down the killer before bodies start to pile up at Oak Grove Manor. Can Ryli and Aunt Shirley apprehend the killer and get Aunt Shirley back in the Manor, or will Aunt Shirley’s time be up…in more ways than one?
- GenresCozy Mystery
225 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 3, 2017
344 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Jenna St. James
137 books277 followersJenna writes in the genre of traditional cozy, paranormal cozy, and romantic comedy. Her humorous characters and stories revolve around over-the-top family members, creative murders, and there's always a positive element of the military in her stories. Jenna currently lives in Missouri with her fiancé, step-daughter, Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever dog, Brownie, and her tuxedo-cat, Whiskey. She is a former court reporter turned educator turned full-time writer. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She also spent twelve years in full-time ministry.
When she’s not writing, Jenna likes to attend beer and wine tastings, go antiquing, visit craft festivals, and spend time with her family and friends. You can friend request her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorjennas... or catch her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/authorjennas.... Check out her website at http://www.jennastjames.com/. Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter so you can keep up with the latest releases!
When she’s not writing, Jenna likes to attend beer and wine tastings, go antiquing, visit craft festivals, and spend time with her family and friends. You can friend request her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorjennas... or catch her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/authorjennas.... Check out her website at http://www.jennastjames.com/. Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter so you can keep up with the latest releases!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
May 20, 2017
OMG I LOVED THIS BOOK!!!!! First of all Aunt Shirley is amazing!!!! In this book nothing has changed and picked up after the last book. The only thing that made me sad was the murders. I will say I knew who the killer were because something just seemed off. But what I enjoyed most was that not only was there a murder but someone was also stealing from the residents at the Manor and Aunt Shirley and Ryli were on the case. Jenna St. James has done it again and I can't wat for the next book. I do enjoy the recipes at the end of her books and think at some point there should be a cookbook. Thank you Jenna for a book full of laughs and a few tears. I can't wait to read what you write next.
May 23, 2017
Good old-fashioned fun murder book!
I really hot a kick out of this book! Aunt Shirley is "little overdone", but still charming ! Definitely someone to have on your side, right! The plot was a bit weak! The charm was in the characters themselves! I didn't have a clue who the murderer was either! That was good!!!!!! Good read!!!!
I really hot a kick out of this book! Aunt Shirley is "little overdone", but still charming ! Definitely someone to have on your side, right! The plot was a bit weak! The charm was in the characters themselves! I didn't have a clue who the murderer was either! That was good!!!!!! Good read!!!!
May 12, 2017
Aunt Shirley makes the series
I enjoy all aspects of the Ryli Sinclair series. As always the twists and turns have me hanging onto my seat. I never can guess a head of time. I guess though my favorite parts are when Aunt Shirley shows up, that lady is a spitfire. I hope when I get her age, to be half as spunky. She's a nut job, but brilliant and has lived an exciting life. The only issues I have with this series / book, they're not long enough. Read this book you'll love it.
I enjoy all aspects of the Ryli Sinclair series. As always the twists and turns have me hanging onto my seat. I never can guess a head of time. I guess though my favorite parts are when Aunt Shirley shows up, that lady is a spitfire. I hope when I get her age, to be half as spunky. She's a nut job, but brilliant and has lived an exciting life. The only issues I have with this series / book, they're not long enough. Read this book you'll love it.
October 19, 2017
Ryli and Aunt Shirley are at it again. The Valentine’s Day holiday is upon them and Ryli needs to come up with a story for the paper. Since Aunt Shirley has acquired a new position at the local newspaper she insinuates herself into the process and actually helps Ryli uncover a great lead story for the paper. Sadly, while researching the story they also uncover a death and one mystery leads to two.
This was an action packed book that moved at a steady pace. The recurring characters are great. The continue to develop and draw you in. The new characters are very well-developed. This book could easily be read alone, but this series is fabulous and you should start at the beginning and catch up. If you like a humorous mystery this is for you. In the past I’ve compared Aunt Shirley to Grandma Mazur in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. I believe Aunt Shirley is even funnier. She has more of a starring role and sees more action. I’ve recommended this series to several people and everyone that has read it, loves it.
This was an action packed book that moved at a steady pace. The recurring characters are great. The continue to develop and draw you in. The new characters are very well-developed. This book could easily be read alone, but this series is fabulous and you should start at the beginning and catch up. If you like a humorous mystery this is for you. In the past I’ve compared Aunt Shirley to Grandma Mazur in Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series. I believe Aunt Shirley is even funnier. She has more of a starring role and sees more action. I’ve recommended this series to several people and everyone that has read it, loves it.
December 13, 2018
Ryli Sinclair is an amazing person !! She has to be to constantly have to deal with her great-aunt Shirley. Ryli is the main character in the Ryli Sinclair Mystery series by Jenna St. James and she is always teaming up with her Aunt Shirley whether she wants to or not and whether she likes it or not !! Either way it always ends up being very entertaining and always ends well......so far.
Just an Old-Fashioned Murder is the third book in this series and I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. I read it within 24 hours.....once you start reading you will relax and get lost in the story and before you know it you will feel like you are riding along side Paige (Ryli's best friend and brother's wife) in the back seat of the Falcon. Sorry Aunt Shirley will not let you ride in the front.
Just an Old-Fashioned Murder introduces you to Oak Grove Manor, it's residents and workers. Oak Grove Manor is the assisted living facility that Aunt Shirley was forced to move into when it was ruled that she couldn't be trusted to live alone any more. Yes ruled by Ryli's boyfriend Garrett who is the Chief of Police. However Aunt Shirley doesn't obey rules very well and gets "temporarily" kicked out of the Manor. So Aunt Shirley moves in with Ryli and before anyone can fix Aunt Shirley's behavior for getting kicked out one of her neighbors is found dead !!
Of course Ryli and Aunt Shirley have to get to the bottom of things even though Garrett constantly tells them to stay out of it. Aunt Shirley and Ryli have different reasons for wanting to solve the case and even though Aunt Shirley drives her crazy, Ryli and her work good as a team when it comes to murder !!
I LOVED getting to know the residents at the Manor and always love hanging around Ryli and her crazy aunt.... St. James has written this series so well that its hard to believe they are not real. When you finish reading any of these books, you will feel like you have a whole new set of friends and a new place to go visit.....even if its just sitting on your couch reading.
November 3, 2017
My Reviews on my blog The Great Book Escape
There is obviously a reason these books are highly rated on Goodreads! Do yourself a solid when you are in the mood for a quick cosy and grab one of these books!! I recommend you start with the first book and read in order, obviously, but you do not HAVE TO if you do not want to. St. James does a good job of recapping key character information in each book for the rogue readers.
I love this series! LOVE IT! It is seriously so funny AND most importantly, I never figure out the killer before the reveal!!! WIN WIN! Although the first book 'Picture Perfect Murder' was a book I received in exchange for a review, these three were not. Based on how much I enjoyed the first, I went on Amazon and got myself the next three the same day. Admittedly I binged all the books in under a week and it was well worth it!
The synopsis for the book is pretty spot on with what to expect with the exception of the twist. Again I am SO happy that this book is more focused on the actual mystery aspect and the relationship and adventures of Ryli and Aunt Shirley. Though there are scenes in which romance is mentioned and/or implied, it is not the focus.
Incase you missed it in my review of the first book, I LOVE AUNT SHIRLEY! This crazy lady is hilarious and so much fun. I really do wish I had an aunt like that, even better, I wish I could be an aunt like that when I get older. Shirley's quirky, no care, live life her way attitude is awesome and she really is a fun character to bond with. I found myself wanting to be in Rylis shoes with the stunts they pull together and to see Shirley in her wacky outfits!
I really could not recommend it enough.
Such a fun cozy mystery read, and the best part is, they are all FREE on KindleUnlimited, or .99¢/$2.99 Regular kindle price!!
There is obviously a reason these books are highly rated on Goodreads! Do yourself a solid when you are in the mood for a quick cosy and grab one of these books!! I recommend you start with the first book and read in order, obviously, but you do not HAVE TO if you do not want to. St. James does a good job of recapping key character information in each book for the rogue readers.
I love this series! LOVE IT! It is seriously so funny AND most importantly, I never figure out the killer before the reveal!!! WIN WIN! Although the first book 'Picture Perfect Murder' was a book I received in exchange for a review, these three were not. Based on how much I enjoyed the first, I went on Amazon and got myself the next three the same day. Admittedly I binged all the books in under a week and it was well worth it!
The synopsis for the book is pretty spot on with what to expect with the exception of the twist. Again I am SO happy that this book is more focused on the actual mystery aspect and the relationship and adventures of Ryli and Aunt Shirley. Though there are scenes in which romance is mentioned and/or implied, it is not the focus.
Incase you missed it in my review of the first book, I LOVE AUNT SHIRLEY! This crazy lady is hilarious and so much fun. I really do wish I had an aunt like that, even better, I wish I could be an aunt like that when I get older. Shirley's quirky, no care, live life her way attitude is awesome and she really is a fun character to bond with. I found myself wanting to be in Rylis shoes with the stunts they pull together and to see Shirley in her wacky outfits!
I really could not recommend it enough.
Such a fun cozy mystery read, and the best part is, they are all FREE on KindleUnlimited, or .99¢/$2.99 Regular kindle price!!
April 5, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. It is a very funny, light hearted old fashion murder with feisty characters that you can't help but love. The mystery was good but it is the characters that make it so much fun, especially Aunt Shirley. This is book three in the series and having listened to all three books so far I can say that I enjoyed them all and highly recommend sitting back and enjoying a series that is going to have you laughing and glad that Aunt Shirley isn't your embarrassing aunt.
Ryli is looking for a story to run on the front page over Valentine's day but is struggling coming up with something interesting enough. Aunt Shirley wants her to do a story on the missing items at the assisted living facility where she lives and also catch the theif at the same time. Ryli hopes she has finally found a story of love good enough, in the form of three best friends who have been there for each other through the lose of three husbands but before she can put pen to paper she is witness to several alterations between one of the residents. So when he is found dead the next morning Ryli and Shirley have to investigate even though nobody is certain it was murder. Accusing the staff isn't the best way to go about it and the staff find a reason to kick Shirley out. If Ryli wants to be able to go out on her valentines date with her boyfriend she must find the thief and hopefully the killer first because Oak Grove manor won't let Shirley back in until they do.
I liked the narrator she uses a wide range of voices for the characters which makes them easy to tell apart.
Ryli is looking for a story to run on the front page over Valentine's day but is struggling coming up with something interesting enough. Aunt Shirley wants her to do a story on the missing items at the assisted living facility where she lives and also catch the theif at the same time. Ryli hopes she has finally found a story of love good enough, in the form of three best friends who have been there for each other through the lose of three husbands but before she can put pen to paper she is witness to several alterations between one of the residents. So when he is found dead the next morning Ryli and Shirley have to investigate even though nobody is certain it was murder. Accusing the staff isn't the best way to go about it and the staff find a reason to kick Shirley out. If Ryli wants to be able to go out on her valentines date with her boyfriend she must find the thief and hopefully the killer first because Oak Grove manor won't let Shirley back in until they do.
I liked the narrator she uses a wide range of voices for the characters which makes them easy to tell apart.
September 22, 2017
In this third book of the series (yes you can read it as a stand alone, but why would you? It is much more fun if you have met the characters and gone through their escapades together by reading the first two books!) murder happens at the Manor-the living facility in which Aunt Shirley has her apartment. A nasty next door neighbor is poisoned. There are thieves in the Manor. Hank is hounding Ryli for a Valentine's Day article for the paper. And worst of all, Aunt Shirley gets kicked out of her apartment and has to live with Ryli.
Just when you think things couldn't get more complicated, they do! Aunt Shirley and Rily are investigating and hoping to clear things so Aunt Shirley can move back into her apartment-well that's Ryli's intent anyway! We meet neighbors of Aunt Shirley's at the Manor, as well as the usual cast of characters in Ryli's life. This is a great mystery with a twist I didn't see coming! As always, Ryli and Aunt Shirley get themselves into plenty of predicaments and fun. Another cozy mystery that will appeal to all ages.
Just when you think things couldn't get more complicated, they do! Aunt Shirley and Rily are investigating and hoping to clear things so Aunt Shirley can move back into her apartment-well that's Ryli's intent anyway! We meet neighbors of Aunt Shirley's at the Manor, as well as the usual cast of characters in Ryli's life. This is a great mystery with a twist I didn't see coming! As always, Ryli and Aunt Shirley get themselves into plenty of predicaments and fun. Another cozy mystery that will appeal to all ages.
March 27, 2018
Better than a Box of Chocolates!
I truly enjoy this series! I have read the first three books in the last two days! It’s just about Valentines Day. Ryli & hunky Police Chief Garrett are still going strong & give us the romance. Crazy Aunt Shirley, back in fine form with her smart mouth, & zany hair colors & styles, provide the laughs. And of course, the numerous dead bodies furnish the action! I find these mysteries cleverly plotted with twists that kept me guessing till the end. Can’t wait to see what Aunt Shirley & Rylie get into next as they go away for the weekend to celebrate Aunt Shirley’s birthday.
I truly enjoy this series! I have read the first three books in the last two days! It’s just about Valentines Day. Ryli & hunky Police Chief Garrett are still going strong & give us the romance. Crazy Aunt Shirley, back in fine form with her smart mouth, & zany hair colors & styles, provide the laughs. And of course, the numerous dead bodies furnish the action! I find these mysteries cleverly plotted with twists that kept me guessing till the end. Can’t wait to see what Aunt Shirley & Rylie get into next as they go away for the weekend to celebrate Aunt Shirley’s birthday.
July 8, 2018
Worth reading just for the killer chiluahuas!
Brilliant. Looking for a Valentine's story has our duo immersed in danger with murder and stolen goods in abundance. Can they sort out the clues before they reach an untimely end. Wonderful humorous plot that will have you chuckling in places. The killer chiluahuas is hilarious and the portrayal of stone cold killer is chilling. The characters just get better and better and the budding romance is done with a sensitive approach. You will love this!
Brilliant. Looking for a Valentine's story has our duo immersed in danger with murder and stolen goods in abundance. Can they sort out the clues before they reach an untimely end. Wonderful humorous plot that will have you chuckling in places. The killer chiluahuas is hilarious and the portrayal of stone cold killer is chilling. The characters just get better and better and the budding romance is done with a sensitive approach. You will love this!
August 12, 2022
I want to clarify why I'm giving this three stars....my personal star rating system is that 4-5 star ratings are reserved for books that I enjoy/can't put down AND make me think differently about my life.
I really enjoy the Ryli sinclair series and the characters in these books for when I need a fun, light read. The writing is enjoyable, the characters are enjoyable. These books just don't change my life, so 3 is the best rating to be expected. I highly recommend if you're looking for a fun read that has great humor mixed with mystery.
I really enjoy the Ryli sinclair series and the characters in these books for when I need a fun, light read. The writing is enjoyable, the characters are enjoyable. These books just don't change my life, so 3 is the best rating to be expected. I highly recommend if you're looking for a fun read that has great humor mixed with mystery.
June 26, 2017
When you find yourself in a strange place, like a nursing home or a rehab center, it is easy to become disoriented and think that every sound and action is spooky. If you work for the local newspaper, you may find every sound and action a lead for the front page. If you do both, and have a niece who also works for the paper… Maybe sometimes when it walks like a duck and talks like a duck it IS a duck??? I enjoyed this story and recommend it.
September 21, 2018
Another delightful ride
Aunt Shirley is at Oak Grove Manor, and Ryli has Garrett -- what could go wrong? Aunt Shirley's eviction and a dead body change everything. If Ryli and Aunt Shirley can't solve this murder, they may be next. All of the wonderful usuals are back, and Aunt Shirley and Ryli are ready -- for anything! Old-Fashioned Murder was a delightful addition to the series, and I highly recommend it!
Aunt Shirley is at Oak Grove Manor, and Ryli has Garrett -- what could go wrong? Aunt Shirley's eviction and a dead body change everything. If Ryli and Aunt Shirley can't solve this murder, they may be next. All of the wonderful usuals are back, and Aunt Shirley and Ryli are ready -- for anything! Old-Fashioned Murder was a delightful addition to the series, and I highly recommend it!
January 11, 2021
This book is a joy to read, great characters and a brilliant story. For a book about murder there are lots of real laughs all the way through, a plot that keeps you guessing and full of twists and turns.
This is my first book from this author and definately not my last.
The narrator has a very good voice for this story and really helps to bring it to life.
This review is based on an audio book which I recieved for free from Audiobooks Unleashed and wanted to give an honest review.
This is my first book from this author and definately not my last.
The narrator has a very good voice for this story and really helps to bring it to life.
This review is based on an audio book which I recieved for free from Audiobooks Unleashed and wanted to give an honest review.
December 17, 2020
Valentine's closing in and Murder is on the menu.
Things are chaotic at the Manor where Ryli's aunt lives.
There's been a string of thefts from both the pantry, and the resident's rooms.
Then an old man that has threatened almost everyone in the building is discovered dead, and is ruled a homicide.
Things really go wild.
Fun story, interesting characters, and a good bit of humor.
Things are chaotic at the Manor where Ryli's aunt lives.
There's been a string of thefts from both the pantry, and the resident's rooms.
Then an old man that has threatened almost everyone in the building is discovered dead, and is ruled a homicide.
Things really go wild.
Fun story, interesting characters, and a good bit of humor.
July 12, 2022
Good read
Wow! These books just keep getting better and better! I laughed so hard at the dog scene I had tears in my eyes. I will say no more on that. Aunt Shirley is a hoot and, of course, there is murder, mystery, and mayhem. This author writes so well that you feel like you are right there. Highly recommend.
Wow! These books just keep getting better and better! I laughed so hard at the dog scene I had tears in my eyes. I will say no more on that. Aunt Shirley is a hoot and, of course, there is murder, mystery, and mayhem. This author writes so well that you feel like you are right there. Highly recommend.
April 13, 2023
Missing
It's supposed to be comedic... I can't see anything particularly funny here... ridiculous, yes; nonsensical, yes; silly, definitely... but it's just that a silly book... a very improbable and ridiculous idea that once again Ryli and Shirley blunder through... disappointing
It's supposed to be comedic... I can't see anything particularly funny here... ridiculous, yes; nonsensical, yes; silly, definitely... but it's just that a silly book... a very improbable and ridiculous idea that once again Ryli and Shirley blunder through... disappointing
September 16, 2017
A Ryli Sinclair Mystery
These books are sooo very entertaining!!! I can not put them down, I just love the humor in the story, Aunt Shirley Rocks!!! The storyline, as well as the characters are fantastic!! Can't wait for the next installment. Jenna.
These books are sooo very entertaining!!! I can not put them down, I just love the humor in the story, Aunt Shirley Rocks!!! The storyline, as well as the characters are fantastic!! Can't wait for the next installment. Jenna.
September 16, 2017
Surprising
This one really took me by surprise. I was sure I had figured out who the killer was. I couldn't have been more wrong. I live it when I don't figure it out right away. Can't wait for book 4. I just love all the characters in this series.
This one really took me by surprise. I was sure I had figured out who the killer was. I couldn't have been more wrong. I live it when I don't figure it out right away. Can't wait for book 4. I just love all the characters in this series.
September 19, 2017
Humor at it's finest
I absolutely love the fun and shenanigans Aunt Shirley is always pulling with Ryli. I can't wait to see where they end up next and who they'll take along for the ride.
I absolutely love the fun and shenanigans Aunt Shirley is always pulling with Ryli. I can't wait to see where they end up next and who they'll take along for the ride.
April 5, 2018
Another entertaining story
Once again, Ryli and Aunt Shirley have been involved with murders, break one and hilarious shenanigans! You will align your way through this one, with a pack of attack chihuahua's, falling off roofs and cocktail time with the Manor residents.
Once again, Ryli and Aunt Shirley have been involved with murders, break one and hilarious shenanigans! You will align your way through this one, with a pack of attack chihuahua's, falling off roofs and cocktail time with the Manor residents.
March 13, 2019
Another fun adventure with Ryli and Aunt Shirley. This time we get to see more of the goings-on at the Manor. Hilarious antics. Fun characters. Lots of twists and turns. Aunt Shirley exhausts me. I’m not sure how young Ryli keeps up with her. Can’t wait to start the next adventure.
September 12, 2019
Assisted living can be deadly.
When theft and murder occurs in Aunt Shirley's assisted living home Ryli is caught in the middle and Aunt Shirley gets kicked out. With her new roommate Ryli is determined to solve the crimes and get her aunt moved back in.
When theft and murder occurs in Aunt Shirley's assisted living home Ryli is caught in the middle and Aunt Shirley gets kicked out. With her new roommate Ryli is determined to solve the crimes and get her aunt moved back in.
March 1, 2022
This is another great cozy mystery in this series. Ryli and Aunt Shirley put themselves into the middle of some thievery and murders at the Manor. I love the characters and the humor in this book. There is a lot of mystery, some action, and some romance. It is a very enjoyable cozy mystery.
May 27, 2017
Really funny
I wasn't so sure if I like this series when I read the first one but the other two really had me hooked. Aunt Shirley keeps me reading and guessing
I wasn't so sure if I like this series when I read the first one but the other two really had me hooked. Aunt Shirley keeps me reading and guessing
June 7, 2017
Better and Better
How much more trouble can Ryli and Aunt Shirley possibly get into? You'll never know unless you check this book out. They keep getting better and better
How much more trouble can Ryli and Aunt Shirley possibly get into? You'll never know unless you check this book out. They keep getting better and better
July 13, 2017
Looking forward to reading more of her books, really kept me guessing as who dunit
September 21, 2017
Laugh out loud funny. Aunt Shirley is a character you can't help but love!
September 22, 2017
Love it.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. I love Ryli and Aunt Shirley. They are so funny. I love Garrett. Keep it up Jenna.
I can't wait for the next book to come out. I love Ryli and Aunt Shirley. They are so funny. I love Garrett. Keep it up Jenna.
March 11, 2018
This one made me sad. What evil people!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews