What do you think?
Rate this book
The Cora Baxter Mysteries #3
The Development
After a stressful week, TV reporter Cora Baxter is ready for a quiet weekend. What she isn't counting on is witnessing the shocking death of a young woman on her way home.
Cora discovers that seventeen-year-old Leanne has been protesting against a new housing development, angering the powerful establishment. Leanne's death is ruled a suicide but, when puzzling information comes to light, Cora decides to investigate further.
She might not know what an unscrupulous businessman, a suspended police officer and hate-mail sending neighbours have to do with the case but she does know there is a news story there.
With her eccentric camera crew on hand to help, can Cora work out what happened in the days before Leanne s death? And was it really suicide after all?
Cora discovers that seventeen-year-old Leanne has been protesting against a new housing development, angering the powerful establishment. Leanne's death is ruled a suicide but, when puzzling information comes to light, Cora decides to investigate further.
She might not know what an unscrupulous businessman, a suspended police officer and hate-mail sending neighbours have to do with the case but she does know there is a news story there.
With her eccentric camera crew on hand to help, can Cora work out what happened in the days before Leanne s death? And was it really suicide after all?
300 pages, Paperback
First published May 10, 2018
178 people are currently reading
222 people want to read
About the author
Jackie Kabler
19 books433 followersJackie Kabler is a journalist, TV presenter and author. She spent twenty years as a TV news reporter for GMTV, ITV and BBC news, and now works as a presenter for shopping channel QVC and is author of the Cora Baxter Mysteries, a series of murder mysteries set in a television newsroom.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
The Development is her third novel. Jackie lives in Gloucestershire with her husband, who is a GP.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
June 15, 2018
As it had been so long since I read the previous book in the series it took me a few chapters to get back into the swing of these characters and how they interact. There were early references to the previous books but my memory must be failing as they weren't enough to trigger specifics in my mind.
As a result I think its fairly safe to say this is a book that work as a standalone, and it a great humorous mystery. There are moments in the story that are just completely hilarious, while they are attempting an investigation into a suicide, which has really affected Cora.
Let's face it if a dead body fell onto your car while you were driving along you may start to feel connected to the person and wonder what drove them to kill themselves. Due to the pacing of the book and how quickly I was reading it, I didn't really come up with any theories myself, but was interested in how Cora's investigation was proceeding.
What I think though makes these books really special is the amount of imagination that must go into coming up with many different stories for breakfast TV, that Cora and her crew can get around the country to report on. They go from the relatively normal to the completely bonkers!
The mystery in this book unfortunately didn't hook me as much as I would like, I think it was the topic at the heart of it that just didn't set me on fire. I was curious how Cora would approach it, but it just didn't completely intrigue me. I also found some of the smaller changers of perspective to be a bit random, although they did make more sense in the last few chapters.
Despite that overall I found The Development to be a good book, not the best in the series, but a perfectly enjoyable read that I devoured really fast.
As a result I think its fairly safe to say this is a book that work as a standalone, and it a great humorous mystery. There are moments in the story that are just completely hilarious, while they are attempting an investigation into a suicide, which has really affected Cora.
Let's face it if a dead body fell onto your car while you were driving along you may start to feel connected to the person and wonder what drove them to kill themselves. Due to the pacing of the book and how quickly I was reading it, I didn't really come up with any theories myself, but was interested in how Cora's investigation was proceeding.
What I think though makes these books really special is the amount of imagination that must go into coming up with many different stories for breakfast TV, that Cora and her crew can get around the country to report on. They go from the relatively normal to the completely bonkers!
The mystery in this book unfortunately didn't hook me as much as I would like, I think it was the topic at the heart of it that just didn't set me on fire. I was curious how Cora would approach it, but it just didn't completely intrigue me. I also found some of the smaller changers of perspective to be a bit random, although they did make more sense in the last few chapters.
Despite that overall I found The Development to be a good book, not the best in the series, but a perfectly enjoyable read that I devoured really fast.
Read
May 17, 2018A quick thank you before I start to Accent Press, who kindly sent me an advance copy of this book.
So, The Development. This is the first book that I’ve read by Jackie Kabler- and the first in the Cora Baxter Mysteries, of which this is the third novel- but she did an admirable job in carrying the story forward, while at the same time ensuring that you don’t get lost in all the little details of the previous books. In fact, this was a fun, sparky and fast-paced read, that uses Kabler’s own experience as a journalist to maximum effect to create a main character that feels fully fleshed out and believable.
We’re back on the road with intrepid reporter Cora Baxter as she covers news stories around Bristol. However, when a body falls onto her car, she’s thrown into an altogether darker story: the supposed suicide victim was a fierce opponent of a new property development due to start construction on her family property, but a little digging uncovers some shady behaviour: both from the police, and from the locals who are lining their own pockets. Who’s to blame?
I admire the way in which Kabler revamps the police mystery formula. By substituting in a reporter- who has almost as much reason to be nosy- she manages to make the story feel fresh and interesting, especially when we’re on the road with Cora and her crew. There’s a good balance of work life and investigating, which I really appreciated- as well as the fact that Cora relies on her friends to help her uncover the mystery! Cora herself is a great character: independent, stubborn and relentlessly nosy, which all endear you to her, as it does to her police detective partner. No mournful lone wolves here: it’s a group effort, and the overall feel of the novel works much better for it, letting you get to know her home friends and camera crew, too- the latter of which makes for some excellent banter at points during the novel.
The plot that they’re plunged into is fast-paced, delivering thrills and spills as well as taking you in the behind-the-scenes nastiness of a neighborhood at war with itself. At first, I wasn’t sure how riveting a novel about property development could be, but it proves very much so: though the villain is pretty crudely drawn, there are twists and turns, and stakeouts, and a nail-biting ending that will have (or had me) you on the edge of your seat. If you’re looking for a summer read with a bit of bite to it, this is it.
Three word review: quirky, funny, property
So, The Development. This is the first book that I’ve read by Jackie Kabler- and the first in the Cora Baxter Mysteries, of which this is the third novel- but she did an admirable job in carrying the story forward, while at the same time ensuring that you don’t get lost in all the little details of the previous books. In fact, this was a fun, sparky and fast-paced read, that uses Kabler’s own experience as a journalist to maximum effect to create a main character that feels fully fleshed out and believable.
We’re back on the road with intrepid reporter Cora Baxter as she covers news stories around Bristol. However, when a body falls onto her car, she’s thrown into an altogether darker story: the supposed suicide victim was a fierce opponent of a new property development due to start construction on her family property, but a little digging uncovers some shady behaviour: both from the police, and from the locals who are lining their own pockets. Who’s to blame?
I admire the way in which Kabler revamps the police mystery formula. By substituting in a reporter- who has almost as much reason to be nosy- she manages to make the story feel fresh and interesting, especially when we’re on the road with Cora and her crew. There’s a good balance of work life and investigating, which I really appreciated- as well as the fact that Cora relies on her friends to help her uncover the mystery! Cora herself is a great character: independent, stubborn and relentlessly nosy, which all endear you to her, as it does to her police detective partner. No mournful lone wolves here: it’s a group effort, and the overall feel of the novel works much better for it, letting you get to know her home friends and camera crew, too- the latter of which makes for some excellent banter at points during the novel.
The plot that they’re plunged into is fast-paced, delivering thrills and spills as well as taking you in the behind-the-scenes nastiness of a neighborhood at war with itself. At first, I wasn’t sure how riveting a novel about property development could be, but it proves very much so: though the villain is pretty crudely drawn, there are twists and turns, and stakeouts, and a nail-biting ending that will have (or had me) you on the edge of your seat. If you’re looking for a summer read with a bit of bite to it, this is it.
Three word review: quirky, funny, property
May 19, 2018
After my full on enjoyment of the first two books in the series I was very keen to see what Cora was up to now. As a reporter she has the skills to travel around the Bristol area picking up snippets of information. However while out in her car innocently driving and a body lands on her windscreen it kinda gives you an insight to how these stories work.
It doesn’t take long to get drawn into the mysteries and the reader is just as keen to solve the problem as her team is. There is a certain level of humour which keeps it feeling real. Dig in for an entertaining read. While it is the third in a series I think the only benefit of reading in order is to be introduced to the characters and get a rounder opinion on Cora. Having said that though it would be a shame to miss out on the events that lead up to this.
While I enjoy a who-dunnit I was able to read the majority of The Development before I knew what was going on so that is a great sign of an established author. Jackie has never failed to perform.
Thanks to the author and Jenny at Neverland blog tours for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
It doesn’t take long to get drawn into the mysteries and the reader is just as keen to solve the problem as her team is. There is a certain level of humour which keeps it feeling real. Dig in for an entertaining read. While it is the third in a series I think the only benefit of reading in order is to be introduced to the characters and get a rounder opinion on Cora. Having said that though it would be a shame to miss out on the events that lead up to this.
While I enjoy a who-dunnit I was able to read the majority of The Development before I knew what was going on so that is a great sign of an established author. Jackie has never failed to perform.
Thanks to the author and Jenny at Neverland blog tours for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
July 11, 2018
The Development starts off in a dramatic and tragic way as TV news reporter Cora drives home after a busy week at work. A young woman lands on her car from a bridge over the road. The woman's death is ruled a suicide but her family - and Cora - aren't so sure. She begins to investigate and soon uncovers links to a planned housing development, local protests, anonymous threatening letters, a dodgy businessman and a possible cover-up by the police. Could they all be connected with the woman's death?
I really like the character of Cora. She is dedicated and professional, determined and principled. The story is mostly told from her point of view but smaller asides from some of other characters hints at something serious being covered up by more than one person. The book is a crime investigation but a bit unusual, not being police led. I don't like gory or graphic incidents in books but do enjoy a mystery adventure so this kind of book is right up my street.
As with Jackie Kabler's other books, her engaging style kept me guessing till the end. And the final dramatic chapters had me tapping my kindle quickly, desperate to find out how it would end.
I really like the character of Cora. She is dedicated and professional, determined and principled. The story is mostly told from her point of view but smaller asides from some of other characters hints at something serious being covered up by more than one person. The book is a crime investigation but a bit unusual, not being police led. I don't like gory or graphic incidents in books but do enjoy a mystery adventure so this kind of book is right up my street.
As with Jackie Kabler's other books, her engaging style kept me guessing till the end. And the final dramatic chapters had me tapping my kindle quickly, desperate to find out how it would end.
August 20, 2023
Another enjoyable cosy crime story from this author.
This time I had to read the book, the previous ones in the series I had listened to, and I think that that might have impacted on my view of the plot a bit; I certainly preferred hearing them as I found I got bored in some sections more than I did in the past. I did enjoy the different perspectives that came together at the end E.g. the DCI’s.
Again, I much prefer her more recent thrillers but would read another of these, were one to be written.
N. B. I assume that the breakfast TV stories came from real life, from the author’s own experiences, as there are too surreal not to be.
This time I had to read the book, the previous ones in the series I had listened to, and I think that that might have impacted on my view of the plot a bit; I certainly preferred hearing them as I found I got bored in some sections more than I did in the past. I did enjoy the different perspectives that came together at the end E.g. the DCI’s.
Again, I much prefer her more recent thrillers but would read another of these, were one to be written.
N. B. I assume that the breakfast TV stories came from real life, from the author’s own experiences, as there are too surreal not to be.
August 6, 2024
As news reporter Cora Baxter is driving home after a busy week, a body lands on her car - an apparent suicide from the bridge above. Understandably shaken, Cora is distressed that the body is that of a teenage girl, Leanne. Cora feels compelled to visit Leanne’s family and finds that her younger brother does not believe that Leanne would have killed herself.
Cora and her crew set out to investigate Leanne’s life and her death, discovering some of the uncomfortable issues that Leanne had uncovered while she had been campaigning to stop a new housing development from proceeding.
As with the two previous books in this Cora Baxter series, the imaginative news stories that Cora and her crew report on for morning breakfast television are cleverly written into the novel. This lightens the tone of the novel but does not detract from the main plot.
Cora and her crew set out to investigate Leanne’s life and her death, discovering some of the uncomfortable issues that Leanne had uncovered while she had been campaigning to stop a new housing development from proceeding.
As with the two previous books in this Cora Baxter series, the imaginative news stories that Cora and her crew report on for morning breakfast television are cleverly written into the novel. This lightens the tone of the novel but does not detract from the main plot.
May 14, 2018
After reading book two in the series, The Deadline, last year I was really looking forward to catching up with Cora and seeing what mischief she was going to get herself into.
Luckily I wasn’t disappointed, The Development was every bit as fun and thrilling as I expected from this series.
This book dives pretty much straight into the action, immediately giving the reader lots of questions that you can’t wait to be answered. I liked that this investigation had a lot of different angles and that it wasn’t obvious how they were all going to fit together, it really kept me guessing until the end.
Cora and her friends were every bit as wonderful, their banter was brilliant it provided some humour and was a nice balance to the more serious aspects of the book. I liked that her friends knew that she wasn’t going to let it go and supported Cora in trying to get to the truth.
What was interesting about this book was that we also got snippets from some of the other characters, ones that were involved in the investigation in some way or another. This definitely gave it that extra mysterious quality as you started to wonder at their motivations and who was involved and how far they would go to cover it up.
Strangely enough, I kind of enjoyed the fact that Cora struggled with this investigation and was ready to admit defeat. It definitely kept me on my toes wondering how she was going to carry on or whether she would figure out what exactly happened.
The Development is a very engrossing read, with plenty of suspenseful moments but some light-hearted humour too. I enjoyed dropping back in on Cora and her crew and I’m hoping that I’ll get to see some more of her.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
Luckily I wasn’t disappointed, The Development was every bit as fun and thrilling as I expected from this series.
This book dives pretty much straight into the action, immediately giving the reader lots of questions that you can’t wait to be answered. I liked that this investigation had a lot of different angles and that it wasn’t obvious how they were all going to fit together, it really kept me guessing until the end.
Cora and her friends were every bit as wonderful, their banter was brilliant it provided some humour and was a nice balance to the more serious aspects of the book. I liked that her friends knew that she wasn’t going to let it go and supported Cora in trying to get to the truth.
What was interesting about this book was that we also got snippets from some of the other characters, ones that were involved in the investigation in some way or another. This definitely gave it that extra mysterious quality as you started to wonder at their motivations and who was involved and how far they would go to cover it up.
Strangely enough, I kind of enjoyed the fact that Cora struggled with this investigation and was ready to admit defeat. It definitely kept me on my toes wondering how she was going to carry on or whether she would figure out what exactly happened.
The Development is a very engrossing read, with plenty of suspenseful moments but some light-hearted humour too. I enjoyed dropping back in on Cora and her crew and I’m hoping that I’ll get to see some more of her.
Originally posted on everywhere and nowhere
December 17, 2019
This was my first book by this author and even though it is the third in a series it was perfectly fine as a stand-alone. I found it to be an absolute delight, brilliantly narrated and well plotted, exactly what I want from a cosy mystery - completely made my week on the way back and from work and sweetened the household chores. Loved the writing, the characters, the story and the conclusion, and felt in safe hands with this satisfying and highly enjoyable tale!
April 6, 2023
This is my first book with Cora Baxter but not by Jackie Kabler. Quite an easy read, despite the subject matter of suicide, and I enjoyed the plot even though it was a little far fetched.
A bit Scooby Doo-ish at the end (if it wasn't for that pesky reporter...) but an enjoyable read that keeps you guessing. 4 🌟
A bit Scooby Doo-ish at the end (if it wasn't for that pesky reporter...) but an enjoyable read that keeps you guessing. 4 🌟
October 16, 2022
Enjoyed this one so much! I've really grown to like Cora Baxter and all her friends, her TV crew, her boyfriend and his son. I really had no idea where this storyline was going to go and loved all the surprises along the way. When I'd finished it, I wanted to go straight onto the next book in the series - but there isn't one! Sorely disappointed and I really hope Jackie Kabler writes one very soon!
July 21, 2022
Another fab read
Another fantastic read in the Cora Baxter trilogy. Jackie has the skill to keep you guessing to the final pages as to who did what. Hope there will be some more Cora Baxter stories.
Another fantastic read in the Cora Baxter trilogy. Jackie has the skill to keep you guessing to the final pages as to who did what. Hope there will be some more Cora Baxter stories.
August 12, 2022
Gripping story
Another seat of your pants mystery by Jackie Gabler. Yet again, no housework done as once you start to read you can't out it down. C. A must read book. Can't wait for her next mystery.
Another seat of your pants mystery by Jackie Gabler. Yet again, no housework done as once you start to read you can't out it down. C. A must read book. Can't wait for her next mystery.
December 22, 2021
Brilliant
What a rollacoster of a storey unfolds drawing you in.brilliant characters first-class plot believable keeps you turning the pages to the end
What a rollacoster of a storey unfolds drawing you in.brilliant characters first-class plot believable keeps you turning the pages to the end
February 14, 2022
Brilliant book, full of suspense.
February 15, 2022
Not bad. Simple crime mystery. It took a while to get going if I'm honest. I did enjoy the banter of the characters. The ending was totally soppy and emotional.
June 19, 2022
I did enjoy this book but with so much description of simple things, I didn’t find it enthralling. I did suspect how the ending would go, so no shock or amazement there
September 13, 2022
Great read
Usual jackie kabler. Suspension. Crime. Twists and turns where you can't put them down. Can highly recommend all her books.
Usual jackie kabler. Suspension. Crime. Twists and turns where you can't put them down. Can highly recommend all her books.
February 5, 2023
A great read
Loved the storyline! Second book I've read by Jackie Kabler, looking forward to the next read! The Silenced is next.
Loved the storyline! Second book I've read by Jackie Kabler, looking forward to the next read! The Silenced is next.
July 5, 2021
Suspense Till The End
A good story well written and it kept me guessing. I enjoy the suspense with twists and turns. A good author is good to find.
A good story well written and it kept me guessing. I enjoy the suspense with twists and turns. A good author is good to find.
January 1, 2025
The Development by Jackie Kabler is a mystery novel that centres on a TV reporter called Cora Baxter. This is the third book in the Cora Baxter Mysteries series by Kabler. However as it was the first of the series I had read I found it worked very well as a standalone.
Cora is driving home from work late one evening after a stressful week and looking forward to having a quiet weekend. What she wasn’t expecting was witnessing the death of a young woman on her way home. Leanne fell from the top of a bridge and hit the windscreen of Cora’s car. The police have ruled the death as a suicide but Cora decides to investigate further after receiving puzzling information from Leanne’s younger brother, Liam. Leanne has been protesting against a new housing development, which has been angering the powerful establishment and Liam is certain that Leanne wouldn’t have left him. Cora recruits the help of her eclectic camera crew, her friends from home and her boyfriend, Adam the police officer, to help her with the case.
Cora and the rest of the characters were all likeable and I enjoyed reading about their humorous interactions. Cora was also an extremely believable character, which is probably due to Kabler’s experience as a journalist. She was a combination of stubborn, witty and nosy, making her a perfect protagonist for this book. Kabler’s colleagues may also have been inspiration for the camera crew. The relationship between Cora and Adam was also lovely: Adam loves her for the exact reasons mentioned above and I really enjoyed reading about how well she got on with Adam’s son despite never wanting any children of her own.
There was also a perfect balance between investigating and the crew doing their actual work. Sometimes in mystery novels the author can focus so much on the mystery that the protagonist doesn’t seem to have a life outside of the mystery. But Kabler didn’t fall into that trap at all: at times the crew had to put the investigation on hold and go work on a story. This allowed for some humorous moments, which was a perfect break from some of the more serious parts.
What drew me to reading this novel was a quote on the front from Linda’s Book Bag describing it as “A modern day Agatha Christie”. I love Agatha Christie novels so I thought I definitely had to try this one. Sure enough, Kabler kept me guessing right until the very end and the twists and turns in the plot were enough to keep anyone on their toes.
I truly enjoyed reading about Cora and her mission to uncover the truth about Leanne’s death. Overall I would give the book 5 stars: the characters were well written, the plot was interesting and I wasn’t able to guess the culprit, which is an essential for a 5 star who-dun-it. I think I may have to go back now and read the previous two novels.
Thank you Accent Press for sending me a copy via Instagram Giveaway. I have chosen to read and review this voluntarily.
Cora is driving home from work late one evening after a stressful week and looking forward to having a quiet weekend. What she wasn’t expecting was witnessing the death of a young woman on her way home. Leanne fell from the top of a bridge and hit the windscreen of Cora’s car. The police have ruled the death as a suicide but Cora decides to investigate further after receiving puzzling information from Leanne’s younger brother, Liam. Leanne has been protesting against a new housing development, which has been angering the powerful establishment and Liam is certain that Leanne wouldn’t have left him. Cora recruits the help of her eclectic camera crew, her friends from home and her boyfriend, Adam the police officer, to help her with the case.
Cora and the rest of the characters were all likeable and I enjoyed reading about their humorous interactions. Cora was also an extremely believable character, which is probably due to Kabler’s experience as a journalist. She was a combination of stubborn, witty and nosy, making her a perfect protagonist for this book. Kabler’s colleagues may also have been inspiration for the camera crew. The relationship between Cora and Adam was also lovely: Adam loves her for the exact reasons mentioned above and I really enjoyed reading about how well she got on with Adam’s son despite never wanting any children of her own.
There was also a perfect balance between investigating and the crew doing their actual work. Sometimes in mystery novels the author can focus so much on the mystery that the protagonist doesn’t seem to have a life outside of the mystery. But Kabler didn’t fall into that trap at all: at times the crew had to put the investigation on hold and go work on a story. This allowed for some humorous moments, which was a perfect break from some of the more serious parts.
What drew me to reading this novel was a quote on the front from Linda’s Book Bag describing it as “A modern day Agatha Christie”. I love Agatha Christie novels so I thought I definitely had to try this one. Sure enough, Kabler kept me guessing right until the very end and the twists and turns in the plot were enough to keep anyone on their toes.
I truly enjoyed reading about Cora and her mission to uncover the truth about Leanne’s death. Overall I would give the book 5 stars: the characters were well written, the plot was interesting and I wasn’t able to guess the culprit, which is an essential for a 5 star who-dun-it. I think I may have to go back now and read the previous two novels.
Thank you Accent Press for sending me a copy via Instagram Giveaway. I have chosen to read and review this voluntarily.
May 19, 2018
With being super busy recently, I wasn't able to read the whole book in one sitting, I wish I did though because there were many occasions where I couldn't stop thinking about this book! I love the plot of The Development, you follow Cora Baxter, a TV reporter where her work takes her across the country. One night though on her way home, she witnesses a young woman's suicide. There's a part of Cora that believes there's more to this though.
Meaning she begins to work out the mystery of what actually happened! As more and more information comes to the surface about this young woman. Each chapter leaves you wanting more, as it gets super tense, also it's actually really unpredictable. What you think should happen, actually doesn't! It was really hard to stop reading, I actually had to finish a whole chapter before putting it down as it meant I semi came to an ending.
I haven't read very many books in this genre, so I don't have much to compare to but in terms of other books I've read, this is definitely up there with my favourites. Also, the writing styles of Jackie is perfect, you really can not fault it, there's just something about it that keeps you gripped until the last word of the last chapter. The characters are also brilliant and you can get along with them really well, I especially love Cora as a character.
What I love the most about The Development, is how Jackie wrote them based in a world she knows very well, the morning television newsroom. This really works and it feels 100% real, something that I love when it comes to books as it draws you in and keeps you there until the very end. After reading The Development, it makes me want to read the other two books in the Cora Baxter Mysteries Series, The Dead Dog Day and The Deadline.
Meaning she begins to work out the mystery of what actually happened! As more and more information comes to the surface about this young woman. Each chapter leaves you wanting more, as it gets super tense, also it's actually really unpredictable. What you think should happen, actually doesn't! It was really hard to stop reading, I actually had to finish a whole chapter before putting it down as it meant I semi came to an ending.
I haven't read very many books in this genre, so I don't have much to compare to but in terms of other books I've read, this is definitely up there with my favourites. Also, the writing styles of Jackie is perfect, you really can not fault it, there's just something about it that keeps you gripped until the last word of the last chapter. The characters are also brilliant and you can get along with them really well, I especially love Cora as a character.
What I love the most about The Development, is how Jackie wrote them based in a world she knows very well, the morning television newsroom. This really works and it feels 100% real, something that I love when it comes to books as it draws you in and keeps you there until the very end. After reading The Development, it makes me want to read the other two books in the Cora Baxter Mysteries Series, The Dead Dog Day and The Deadline.
May 15, 2018
It seems that Cora is at it again. Into all sorts of things she shouldn't be. But this time a body falling from a bridge onto her car really isn't her fault right!? Don't forget pissing off the entire police force. What's a girl to do right? Poor Cora. She really was ready to hang in the towel there for a moment.
This is a cozy little mystery that is full of laughs and good banter amongst friends. This book is steady paced and never rushed. This action packed read that will have you guessing till the end.
This is the first book I have read by this author. I enjoyed the fact that the author uses her experience as a reporter and journalist to make her book seem real and authentic. The plot was well written and the characters were fun and engaging. This is not the first book in the series, but I did not feel lost reading it. But I am sure if I read the other book first then it would have only gave me more depth to the characters than I already had. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with an amateur sleuth.
*ARC provided by Neverland Book Tours & Jackie Kabler
This is a cozy little mystery that is full of laughs and good banter amongst friends. This book is steady paced and never rushed. This action packed read that will have you guessing till the end.
This is the first book I have read by this author. I enjoyed the fact that the author uses her experience as a reporter and journalist to make her book seem real and authentic. The plot was well written and the characters were fun and engaging. This is not the first book in the series, but I did not feel lost reading it. But I am sure if I read the other book first then it would have only gave me more depth to the characters than I already had. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good mystery with an amateur sleuth.
*ARC provided by Neverland Book Tours & Jackie Kabler
March 7, 2019
Cora, a roving reporter for a breakfast TVshow, is driving home from work one evening when a young woman, Leanne, jumps off a bridge straight onto her car. The police believe it’s suicide, but Leanne’s brother is convinced that she would never have done that, so Cora decides to investigate, and becomes convinced that it has something to do with a new housing development at the end of Leanne’s street.
I really enjoyed this cosy mystery (there’s no blood and gore), and though it is the third book in the series it reads well as a standalone. It is well written and fast paced with lots of twists and turns, but I did eventually guess who the killer was, though not until quite close to the end. I enjoyed reading the bits about Cora’s job as a roving reporter and it is clear that Ms Kabler uses her experience in TV to good effect. Cora is a great character – professional, fun, stubborn, a good friend and just plain nosey! The crew were brilliant too, and some of the banter was hilarious.
This book made a nice change from the more gory serial killer thrillers I often read and I have now purchased the first book in the series.
The narration by Zara Ramm was spot on.
I really enjoyed this cosy mystery (there’s no blood and gore), and though it is the third book in the series it reads well as a standalone. It is well written and fast paced with lots of twists and turns, but I did eventually guess who the killer was, though not until quite close to the end. I enjoyed reading the bits about Cora’s job as a roving reporter and it is clear that Ms Kabler uses her experience in TV to good effect. Cora is a great character – professional, fun, stubborn, a good friend and just plain nosey! The crew were brilliant too, and some of the banter was hilarious.
This book made a nice change from the more gory serial killer thrillers I often read and I have now purchased the first book in the series.
The narration by Zara Ramm was spot on.
June 27, 2019
Was it suicide?
I enjoyed this well-paced mystery, centred around a young girl who appears to have committed suicide. Cora Baxter is driving home when the teenager drops from a bridge onto her car. As a TV reporter, Cora is well positioned to investigate discrepancies and although this is ruled a suicide, Cora is not convinced.
Assisted by her TV crew, of sound-man, photographer and engineer, plus her two girlfriends, Cora gets very involved with some pretty shady characters and asks rather more questions than she maybe should. It also doesn't hurt that her boyfriend is with the police in London.
It seems that Leanne's suicide may be related to an appeal for planning permission, sought for a large housing development at the end of her street, which could result in her family's house being demolished.
The fact that the mystery was set in Bristol was a bonus for me, having lived there for several years. I enjoyed the narration by Zara Ramm and the characters were well drawn. There was some amusing conversation, especially the banter between the film crew. And finally, a pretty good ending.
4.5 stars on sites that allow half stars.
I enjoyed this well-paced mystery, centred around a young girl who appears to have committed suicide. Cora Baxter is driving home when the teenager drops from a bridge onto her car. As a TV reporter, Cora is well positioned to investigate discrepancies and although this is ruled a suicide, Cora is not convinced.
Assisted by her TV crew, of sound-man, photographer and engineer, plus her two girlfriends, Cora gets very involved with some pretty shady characters and asks rather more questions than she maybe should. It also doesn't hurt that her boyfriend is with the police in London.
It seems that Leanne's suicide may be related to an appeal for planning permission, sought for a large housing development at the end of her street, which could result in her family's house being demolished.
The fact that the mystery was set in Bristol was a bonus for me, having lived there for several years. I enjoyed the narration by Zara Ramm and the characters were well drawn. There was some amusing conversation, especially the banter between the film crew. And finally, a pretty good ending.
4.5 stars on sites that allow half stars.
May 20, 2018
I was lucky enough to receive this book from the publishers in exchange of a fair review.
The story follows Cora Baxter a TV journalist who witnesses a tragedy on her way home one night, she then sets out to investigate the incident and all is not as it seems.
This is the third instalment of the Cora Baxter Mystery series. I have not had the chance to read the previous novels, but this did not stop my from enjoying this book immensely.
The mystery was cleverly plotted and I did not manage to guess the culprit until the big reveal. The characters are well developed and I liked Cora and was rooting for her throughout.
The only negative I have is that sometimes the dialogue was slightly jarring, the conversations between characters did not seem particularly natural.
.
An altogether good read, which made me want to go back and read the other books in the series...something else to add to my TBR pile!
The story follows Cora Baxter a TV journalist who witnesses a tragedy on her way home one night, she then sets out to investigate the incident and all is not as it seems.
This is the third instalment of the Cora Baxter Mystery series. I have not had the chance to read the previous novels, but this did not stop my from enjoying this book immensely.
The mystery was cleverly plotted and I did not manage to guess the culprit until the big reveal. The characters are well developed and I liked Cora and was rooting for her throughout.
The only negative I have is that sometimes the dialogue was slightly jarring, the conversations between characters did not seem particularly natural.
.
An altogether good read, which made me want to go back and read the other books in the series...something else to add to my TBR pile!
June 6, 2018
I enjoyed this mystery!
I felt a personal connection to this story because the main character lives near Gloucestershire, which is home to my university, University of Gloucestershire. I’m currently doing my Master’s remotely, but I will be going to Gloucester to graduate in the fall, so I loved reading about the town!
This story really kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t predict what the clues would reveal. I also liked that Cora worked as a news reporter. She had a perfect position to explore the case, while also being removed from it. She also was able to get permission to work on it for the news, which was a bonus. Most of the time in books when someone who isn’t on the police force wants to investigate something, they get in trouble, but Cora was lucky.
I really enjoyed this crime filled mystery!
I received a copy of this book from Neverland Blog Tours.
I felt a personal connection to this story because the main character lives near Gloucestershire, which is home to my university, University of Gloucestershire. I’m currently doing my Master’s remotely, but I will be going to Gloucester to graduate in the fall, so I loved reading about the town!
This story really kept me on the edge of my seat. I couldn’t predict what the clues would reveal. I also liked that Cora worked as a news reporter. She had a perfect position to explore the case, while also being removed from it. She also was able to get permission to work on it for the news, which was a bonus. Most of the time in books when someone who isn’t on the police force wants to investigate something, they get in trouble, but Cora was lucky.
I really enjoyed this crime filled mystery!
I received a copy of this book from Neverland Blog Tours.
December 29, 2018
Where oh where has Cora Baxter been hiding! I absolutely loved this book. It's the third in the Cora Baxter mysteries series and you can definitely read it as a stand alone book. Although if you're anything like me, within five minutes of finishing it I had downloaded the first two! This is one of those delicious books that by the end of the first chapter you are engrossed and find yourself thinking about it even when you're not reading it! Cora is a fab character, she has that realness about her, she could so be one of my friends. I loved the banter between her and her film crew. There was a real mix of crime, love and suspense within the pages of The Development and a good old twist in the end that I didn't see coming. This will definitely be in my top reads of 2018! Thank you Jackie for bringing Cora Baxter and her team into my World!
May 17, 2018
The Development is the third book in the Cora Baxter series, but the first I have read. It had enough twists and suspense to keep me hooked from the first chapter. It continues at a steady pace and will keep you guessing until the very end.
In addition to the mystery, there was also plenty of laughter from me as I followed the escapades of Cora and her friends.
As I mentioned earlier, this is the first book I have ready by this author and although there are others in the series I didn't feel like I had missed any major parts of the storyline. I may have picked up a little more background to some of the characters but it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story.
If you are looking for a quick read or a cosy mystery then I would highly recommend this book.
In addition to the mystery, there was also plenty of laughter from me as I followed the escapades of Cora and her friends.
As I mentioned earlier, this is the first book I have ready by this author and although there are others in the series I didn't feel like I had missed any major parts of the storyline. I may have picked up a little more background to some of the characters but it didn't spoil my enjoyment of the story.
If you are looking for a quick read or a cosy mystery then I would highly recommend this book.
June 8, 2018
The Development by Jackie Kebler is the third book in the Cora Baxter Mystery series. I haven't yet read the first two books but that didn't keep me from enjoying this instalment!
The mystery aspect of this book is wonderful and it's not too easy to guess. The writing is quick and witty, so much so that I read this book in one sitting!
I liked that Cora is a journalist rather than a member of the police, or a private investigator. It made a nice change from most other mystery novels that I've read.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about Cora so I will be picking up the first two books soon!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free copy to review!
The mystery aspect of this book is wonderful and it's not too easy to guess. The writing is quick and witty, so much so that I read this book in one sitting!
I liked that Cora is a journalist rather than a member of the police, or a private investigator. It made a nice change from most other mystery novels that I've read.
I'm definitely looking forward to reading more about Cora so I will be picking up the first two books soon!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a free copy to review!
March 1, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Cora is a roving reporter who works with a great team. Whilst travelling home one evening she is witness to the death of a young girl, Leanne. The death is considered a suicide by the authorities but Cora is not entirely convinced, especially after speaking to Leanne’s family and neighbours and her subsequent investigation leads to a mystery with many twists and turns. There are many red herrings and a few chuckles along the way, the characters are very believable and the narrator is superb. My only disappointment was that this is the last book in the Cora Baxter series!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews