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DI Beatrice Stubbs #4-6
The Beatrice Stubbs Boxset Two
***Book 14 of the series, SIREN SONG, is out now***For lovers of intelligent crime fiction, three more heart-racing European adventures in one boxset.Beatrice Stubbs of Scotland detective inspector, metaphor mixer and stubborn survivor.Battling crime by day and her own demons by night, the question is always the same.Justice or the law?"If you've not yet read Beatrice Stubbs, I envy you. What a treat you have in store."Cold "Two things people fear the most? Change and death."Santorini. Turquoise seas, ancient ruins and beautiful sunsets. And a woman thrown from a cliff. The violent death shocks fellow passengers of the Empress Louise, a grand cruise liner packed with British tourists. DI Beatrice Stubbs flies to Greece to assist. When another lady is killed in her cabin, terror spreads like contagion. Murder is aboard and someone has Beatrice in his sights. Revenge is a dish best served cold.Human "Judgement is in the eye of the beholder."Adrian Harvey has a stalker. Someone is stealing his post, vandalising his shop and making allegations to the police. And who is that nun? When DI Beatrice Stubbs is dispatched to Germany to investigate art theft, Adrian seizes the chance to flee the city. Yet the stalker is still on his heels. Adrian runs from danger to the remote island of Sylt. But danger follows and Adrian has run too far.Bad "Some people are just rotten to the core."A police conference in Portugal is hardly a dangerous assignment, so Beatrice Stubbs invites family and friends for a holiday. It should be the perfect work-life balance. Until one of her colleagues is murdered. An eclectic alliance of international detectives forms to find the assassin. But are they really on the same side? Meanwhile, tensions rise at the holiday villa. A clash of egos sours the atmosphere and when a five-year-old child disappears, their idyll turns hellish. Trust can be a fatal mistake.If you enjoy Alexander McCall Smith, Jacqueline Winspear and David Hewson, you'll love Boxset Two.Discover Beatrice Stubbs - detective inspector, metaphor mixer and stubborn 1. Behind Closed Doors (Switzerland)2. Raw Material (England/Wales)3. Tread Softly (Basque County, Spain)4. Cold Pressed (The Greek Islands)5. Human Rites (Germany)6. Bad Apples (Portugal)7. Snow Angel (England)8. Honey Trap (Italy)9. Black Widow (France)10. White Night (Finland)11. The Woman in the Frame (Mallorca)12. All Souls' Day (Belgium)13. True Colours (Sweden)14. Siren Song (Spain)Plus the exclusive free prequel for newsletter Black Dogs, Yellow Butterflies (London)
622 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2017
579 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
J.J. Marsh
34 books178 followersAs a child, Jill read so obsessively she got kicked out of the school library. But her passion for words continued. She graduated in English Literature and Theatre Studies from the University of Wales and set up a theatre company. Since then, as an actor, director, teacher, writer and journalist, she’s worked in fifteen countries. She learnt something from each one.
Now, with her husband and three dogs, Jill lives in Switzerland, a country with four languages and mountains of new words.
She works as a language trainer all over Europe, collaborates with Nuance Words and Triskele Books, and contributes regularly to Words with JAM magazine. But most of the time, she writes. And reads.
Behind Closed Doors is the first Beatrice Stubbs novel, a European crime series set in compelling locations all over the Continent.
Now, with her husband and three dogs, Jill lives in Switzerland, a country with four languages and mountains of new words.
She works as a language trainer all over Europe, collaborates with Nuance Words and Triskele Books, and contributes regularly to Words with JAM magazine. But most of the time, she writes. And reads.
Behind Closed Doors is the first Beatrice Stubbs novel, a European crime series set in compelling locations all over the Continent.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 15, 2021
I just love Beatrice Stubbs! So fiesty yet very realistic portrayal of her character, and I love the way the stories include friends and family as well as colleagues. I started this series at book #3 yet was up to speed in no time and enjoying the mysteries. All three mysteries in this box set are so different and kept my interest to read them in a row. Looking forward to reading more!
August 28, 2017
I love Beatrice Stubbs. So much that when I learnt that book 6 was to be the final one, I threw a mild tantrum. These books are really well written - and edited - so that there are no inconsistencies, the plots are convincing and challenging to identify the culprit and all the characters are well rounded. I'm particularly fond of Adrian, but there are a few others that make a reappearance throughout the series; all in a very believable manner. I've not done much travelling, (not likely to go on any cruises now, that's for sure!) but these generally inspire me to do a bit of reading around the city in which the particular novel is based. I'm terribly sad now these are all finished, but will have to keep my ears alert for any special Stubbs-style comments, as they are incredibly entertaining.
I eked these out over a month, but had to force myself to put the kobo down simply because I didn't want them to come to an end before the summer did. Please, please JJ Marsh, relent and write a prequel - or five :-)
My favourite thriller / procedural novel type has a strong female lead. One that is convincingly human and real, who isn’t the classic maverick detective, but works as a cog in a team, supporting her colleagues, just like in real life. Oh, and she needs to have some flaws. I need them to be written honestly, with interactions, opinions and emotions that echo people I know. As a bonus I’d like to find them entertaining enough to spend time with in person (it’s fiction; I can pretend she’d want to spend time with me). I don't think this is too demanding of me (!) but I do struggle to find novels that tick all those boxes
Beatrice has all this in spades. So, JJ Marsh can create the perfect (in her imperfections) character, but can she write plot? Or create a sense of place? Or suspense? Yes. These she does, most excellently. Beatrice’s partner works and lives in Devon. Rather close to me as it happens. I can vouch for the sense of place.
In case you are interested -
I give 5 stars to books I want to reread and often buy as gifts after reading AND want to buy the whole of the author's back catalogue, 4 to ones I immediately want to buy the entire back history and 3 to books I enjoy but don't quite meet those criteria. If something doesn't at least meet a 3 star, then I won't review it - I don't have the skill or the talent to write so who am I to criticise someone who does
I eked these out over a month, but had to force myself to put the kobo down simply because I didn't want them to come to an end before the summer did. Please, please JJ Marsh, relent and write a prequel - or five :-)
My favourite thriller / procedural novel type has a strong female lead. One that is convincingly human and real, who isn’t the classic maverick detective, but works as a cog in a team, supporting her colleagues, just like in real life. Oh, and she needs to have some flaws. I need them to be written honestly, with interactions, opinions and emotions that echo people I know. As a bonus I’d like to find them entertaining enough to spend time with in person (it’s fiction; I can pretend she’d want to spend time with me). I don't think this is too demanding of me (!) but I do struggle to find novels that tick all those boxes
Beatrice has all this in spades. So, JJ Marsh can create the perfect (in her imperfections) character, but can she write plot? Or create a sense of place? Or suspense? Yes. These she does, most excellently. Beatrice’s partner works and lives in Devon. Rather close to me as it happens. I can vouch for the sense of place.
In case you are interested -
I give 5 stars to books I want to reread and often buy as gifts after reading AND want to buy the whole of the author's back catalogue, 4 to ones I immediately want to buy the entire back history and 3 to books I enjoy but don't quite meet those criteria. If something doesn't at least meet a 3 star, then I won't review it - I don't have the skill or the talent to write so who am I to criticise someone who does
January 24, 2022
Beatrice Stubbs seems in some ways an unlikely hero (heroine??)--no longer young, not really beautiful and/or glamorous, struggling with bipolar syndrome and a great many hangups, a woman detective in what is mostly a man's world. However, she's brave, intelligent, persistent, good at reading people, reading between the lines, and fitting puzzle pieces together. And she truly cares about people, in both her professional and personal life. These stories are a delight, with at least two major plots lines running in each, and eventually intersecting. I wonder at the amounts of caffeine and alcohol she consumes, while running on tension and not enough sleep, all the while taking mood controlling medication. Great plotting, characters you can't help caring about, and lots of lovely red herrings to keep the reader from figuring out too soon whodunnit (much less how and why). This is the second collection of her stories I've read and I'm looking forward to the third--I may even buy them in paper for the mystery section of my library. Highly recommended.
October 30, 2023
I started reading the Beatrice Stubbs series at box set two and found that I was much more interested in the subplot than the main thread. In all three books I enjoyed the story surrounding her neighbor, Adrian, and the people that he interacted with - not so much the main storylines, where I often became confused (probably because I skimmed over those parts so I could get back to the interesting stuff).
Perhaps because I did not start at book one, and missed any explanation for it, I was exceedingly annoyed by the number of eggcorns in these books…
Drop of a cat, dustman’s holiday, ear to the grindstone, watching pants dry, weevil in a haystack,
“What’s for dinner? I’m ravishing “
I was wondering if it was a bad text to speech program or unfamiliarity with idiomatic English by a translator. As I read on, I thought it might be a quirk of Beatrice. I may go and find book one to see if there’s any explanation.
Perhaps because I did not start at book one, and missed any explanation for it, I was exceedingly annoyed by the number of eggcorns in these books…
Drop of a cat, dustman’s holiday, ear to the grindstone, watching pants dry, weevil in a haystack,
“What’s for dinner? I’m ravishing “
I was wondering if it was a bad text to speech program or unfamiliarity with idiomatic English by a translator. As I read on, I thought it might be a quirk of Beatrice. I may go and find book one to see if there’s any explanation.
March 3, 2021
Bought this as a cheap Kindle offer so didn’t expect much. Good stories, each of these set within a different country and there is incorporated something of the flavour/sights/place of the country which when you read a bit about the author makes sense.. The plots are interesting, not much blood and gore which I really appreciate and a bit of psychology but essentially just a good read. The only thing that got me and this is super minor - ‘peony blue’ what is that supposed to mean? Yet it evidently it is a colour but peonies are never blue so who dreamed that one up: and something about silvery hue of melted chocolate and all I could visualise was chocolate that has that silvery look has gone off. But as I said these are picky, really picky, and I’d gladly read more
April 10, 2023
Gripping
Bought the 3 book box set and it sat on my Kindle for ages, then decided I would read it and if after one book I didn't like it I could call it a day, so glad I did I have read all 3 in record time, all different locations and all totally absorbing, very well written, loved all the characters. Recommended reading if you like a detective story with the lead character Beatrice unlike any detective I have read before, may just have to invest in more books with Beatrice, because I have the feeling I am going to miss her and the gang.
Bought the 3 book box set and it sat on my Kindle for ages, then decided I would read it and if after one book I didn't like it I could call it a day, so glad I did I have read all 3 in record time, all different locations and all totally absorbing, very well written, loved all the characters. Recommended reading if you like a detective story with the lead character Beatrice unlike any detective I have read before, may just have to invest in more books with Beatrice, because I have the feeling I am going to miss her and the gang.
November 30, 2017
I really enjoyed this series. Each episode took place in a different country with cooperation from various international organizations. It gave Marsh the freedom to paint some unique backgrounds to the mysteries and she did so beautifully. There were quite a few quirky translations of English expressions but I actually enjoyed them. Good detective, interesting characters, great tension as plots (usually more that one) propelled one forward, interesting mysteries.
March 18, 2019
So glad I found Beatrice Stubbs!
To find a new detective who is engaging, intelligent and likable is a joy. All of the characters are believable and the story lines really kept me turning pages. I came to the end of book 6 feeling quite sad but then found there is book 7 , hurrah!!
If I have my way, JJ Marsh will continue writing for a very long time. I look forward to discovering .more of her books
To find a new detective who is engaging, intelligent and likable is a joy. All of the characters are believable and the story lines really kept me turning pages. I came to the end of book 6 feeling quite sad but then found there is book 7 , hurrah!!
If I have my way, JJ Marsh will continue writing for a very long time. I look forward to discovering .more of her books
August 12, 2019
Love J J Marsh and Beatrice Stubbs!!
Wonderful books, set in exotic and interesting locations, with captivating exploits. The cultures are so different from mine, but the human characters are like the people I know in my own world. Marsh has a delightful way of drawing the reader into the excitement, and after reading these books, I feel like I am one of the family, too! Thank you, B, and I look forward to more adventure in your retirement!
Wonderful books, set in exotic and interesting locations, with captivating exploits. The cultures are so different from mine, but the human characters are like the people I know in my own world. Marsh has a delightful way of drawing the reader into the excitement, and after reading these books, I feel like I am one of the family, too! Thank you, B, and I look forward to more adventure in your retirement!
September 23, 2022
The Indomitable Beatrice Stubbs
This three-book set was quite varied in its plots, locations and characters, although the author keeps adding people rather than just giving the reader all new ones to learn. These books are character-driven, and they all fit the plots perfectly. Looking forward to more.
This three-book set was quite varied in its plots, locations and characters, although the author keeps adding people rather than just giving the reader all new ones to learn. These books are character-driven, and they all fit the plots perfectly. Looking forward to more.
October 5, 2018
More, More, More!
6 books back to back. Oh how I hate that there is not a seventh, eighth, ninth etc. Fabulous characters, exciting stories. The absolute best of everything. Don't miss! Please write more Beatrice Stubbs'. Thanks J J Marsh.
6 books back to back. Oh how I hate that there is not a seventh, eighth, ninth etc. Fabulous characters, exciting stories. The absolute best of everything. Don't miss! Please write more Beatrice Stubbs'. Thanks J J Marsh.
April 18, 2019
BRI!kant boom.really enjoyed reading these books and want to read more. So looking forward to the next book to come out.
Really enjoyed reading these and looking forward to the next book . Most enjoyable books i have read and will purchase more
Really enjoyed reading these and looking forward to the next book . Most enjoyable books i have read and will purchase more
May 29, 2020
Interesting reads and characters some sadistic scenes in 1st novel, some profanity, and all have LGBA references. Main character has non-religious viewpoint. Narration was well done in character by Jill Prewett
May 1, 2021
Review
Absolutely loved these books. Getting ready to download the next set. Lots of mystery, lots of feel good family with awesome friends. Plus, she goes to some very awesome places. Places we would all like to go. You will not be disappointed.
Absolutely loved these books. Getting ready to download the next set. Lots of mystery, lots of feel good family with awesome friends. Plus, she goes to some very awesome places. Places we would all like to go. You will not be disappointed.
May 22, 2022
Loved these three books!
All of them were well-written. They had lots of action in them. And lots of humor. Usually two good Mysteries going at once. And they kept me guessing till the end! I am on to the next book!
All of them were well-written. They had lots of action in them. And lots of humor. Usually two good Mysteries going at once. And they kept me guessing till the end! I am on to the next book!
May 27, 2022
My kind of Detective
Beatrice Stubbs is smart, resourceful, and witty. And she has interesting friends (and suspects). Not deep stories, but not lightweight either. Thoughtful and intriguing. I ordered the second trilogy to enjoy next.
Beatrice Stubbs is smart, resourceful, and witty. And she has interesting friends (and suspects). Not deep stories, but not lightweight either. Thoughtful and intriguing. I ordered the second trilogy to enjoy next.
March 4, 2018
A thoroughly absorbing and enjoyable read! Mystery, suspense, intrigue - it's all here.
January 20, 2019
I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. All of the characters are enjoyable to keep up with. Good mystery series.
July 14, 2021
Beatrice Stubbs box set two
Keeps you guessing until the last chapters. I like the style of writing and the details of the surroundings. Keep it up!
Keeps you guessing until the last chapters. I like the style of writing and the details of the surroundings. Keep it up!
February 23, 2022
Mysteries and excitement at its best
Loved everything about it love mystery murder excitement these books had it all recommend it to all who love a good read
Loved everything about it love mystery murder excitement these books had it all recommend it to all who love a good read
March 12, 2023
Superbly written characters and exciting plots - what's not to like? I adore these people and can't wait to read more of their adventures.
September 4, 2022
Beatrice Stubbs has some great adventures even though she no longer works for the Met. Helluva of woman. She and Catinca are quite the pair.
April 28, 2020
Like Book 5 in the series it was just so so. Unlike the first four books in the Beatrice Stubbs series that were just great from beginning to end, 5 & 6 just never did it for me. The plots and the sub plots in the first four books were great and moved along right to the end. Not so with Books 5 & 6 they never really got going and when they did get interesting you were 75% through the book.
Still I like the character and have bought the next 3 books in this series with the hope JJ Marsh will once again find her MOJO.
So if your new to JJ Marsh (beatrice stubbs) start with book 1(behind closed doors) and if you continue on with books 2-4 in the series you won't be disappointed.
Still I like the character and have bought the next 3 books in this series with the hope JJ Marsh will once again find her MOJO.
So if your new to JJ Marsh (beatrice stubbs) start with book 1(behind closed doors) and if you continue on with books 2-4 in the series you won't be disappointed.
October 29, 2023
Just finished these three books in the second set. I wish there was more. She is formidable, she flawed, she is human, funny, and I like her Britishness, all in all want more of Beatrice Stubbs. Cold Press, Human Rights and Bad Apple.
I have just re read those three books and found them just as Interesting. (2023). Perhaps I should start rereading books.
I have just re read those three books and found them just as Interesting. (2023). Perhaps I should start rereading books.
January 18, 2019
Fabulous collection of three books, each featuring DI Beatrice Stubbs and each thrilling in its own way. Her work frequently has her working on European police Task forces so each takes place in a different European country. Populated by well drawn personalities and complex plots.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews