What do you think?
Rate this book
A Ditie Brown Mystery #1
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot
Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown adores kids. So when a childhood friend asks Ditie to babysit her kids for a few days, she jumps at the chance. She never imagined she’d be solving a murder too . . .
Despite growing up together, Ditie hasn’t seen Ellie Winston in two years, and she didn’t even know Ellie was living in Atlanta. But when Ellie asks her to take care of Lucie and Jason for the weekend, she thinks nothing of it. They’ll bake cookies together, play with her dog—it’ll be fun! Until the police call with terrible news . . .
Ellie may not have been the best friend, but who would want her dead? Could it have something to do with the vague get-rich-quick scheme she mentioned to Ditie? Or the men in a black truck following her and breaking into her home? Not sure who to trust other than her best friend, Lurleen, Ditie’s buried maternal instincts kick in to protect the kids and find their mother’s killer—before they’re orphaned again . . .
Includes Family-Friendly Recipes!
Despite growing up together, Ditie hasn’t seen Ellie Winston in two years, and she didn’t even know Ellie was living in Atlanta. But when Ellie asks her to take care of Lucie and Jason for the weekend, she thinks nothing of it. They’ll bake cookies together, play with her dog—it’ll be fun! Until the police call with terrible news . . .
Ellie may not have been the best friend, but who would want her dead? Could it have something to do with the vague get-rich-quick scheme she mentioned to Ditie? Or the men in a black truck following her and breaking into her home? Not sure who to trust other than her best friend, Lurleen, Ditie’s buried maternal instincts kick in to protect the kids and find their mother’s killer—before they’re orphaned again . . .
Includes Family-Friendly Recipes!
318 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 29, 2018
1369 people are currently reading
1718 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
May 12, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot by Sarah Osborne is the first book in the new A Ditie Brown Mystery series. Now from the cover and title of this book I was going into this one expecting a lighthearted fun cozy read but unfortunately that wasn't the case with this one which is the reason I dropped my rating to 2.5 stars.
The story begins with Mabel Aphrodite Brown, or Ditie as she's known by her friends, being contacted by an old friend whom she hadn't seen in a couple of years despite them being very close in the past. Ellie is actually now living nearby and she has a favor to ask of Ditie, she'd like her to watch her kids for a few days and "keep them safe" and they really miss Aunt Ditie.
Ditie agrees to take the kids and thinks it will be fun having the little ones around for a few days, that is until the police arrive to tell Ditie that Ellen has been killed. With two grieving children in her care the last thing Ditie expected was to be pulled into whatever danger Ellie had been involved in and she needs answers before it's too late.
Now, Sarah Osborne obviously has talent as a writer as she wrote a decent mystery with likable characters but the story missed the mark with me since it was such a downer and when I pick up a book of this nature I'm looking for fun. It's not supposed to be a young mother leaving her children behind that gets killed, it's supposed to be the annoying "bad" guy of the book. It's not supposed to bring readers down when we learn that the mother in question was leaving a lot of the child care to her nine year old.
To top of the gloominess the main character works around a lot of other heartbreaking things that get mentions in the book. Gone was the humor and quirkiness that I crave from a cozy so my rating is really a reflection of this simply not being a cozy read that would make me smile and laugh while trying to figure out the mystery although if interested in a more serious tone to that type of book it may be for you.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The story begins with Mabel Aphrodite Brown, or Ditie as she's known by her friends, being contacted by an old friend whom she hadn't seen in a couple of years despite them being very close in the past. Ellie is actually now living nearby and she has a favor to ask of Ditie, she'd like her to watch her kids for a few days and "keep them safe" and they really miss Aunt Ditie.
Ditie agrees to take the kids and thinks it will be fun having the little ones around for a few days, that is until the police arrive to tell Ditie that Ellen has been killed. With two grieving children in her care the last thing Ditie expected was to be pulled into whatever danger Ellie had been involved in and she needs answers before it's too late.
Now, Sarah Osborne obviously has talent as a writer as she wrote a decent mystery with likable characters but the story missed the mark with me since it was such a downer and when I pick up a book of this nature I'm looking for fun. It's not supposed to be a young mother leaving her children behind that gets killed, it's supposed to be the annoying "bad" guy of the book. It's not supposed to bring readers down when we learn that the mother in question was leaving a lot of the child care to her nine year old.
To top of the gloominess the main character works around a lot of other heartbreaking things that get mentions in the book. Gone was the humor and quirkiness that I crave from a cozy so my rating is really a reflection of this simply not being a cozy read that would make me smile and laugh while trying to figure out the mystery although if interested in a more serious tone to that type of book it may be for you.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 16, 2018
I definitely wouldn't advertise this as a "cozy" mystery. It does not have the feel most cozies have and does have some curse words in there. This mystery has a more serious feel but not too scary or graphic. That being said, I did enjoy it and will try to read more in the series.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
I was given an eARC by the publisher through NetGalley.
June 17, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown – Ditie – who spends her life saving kids. She works at a refugee clinic and sees kids with everything from malnutrition to abusing “uncles”. She comes to care a lot about these children in just the few minutes she spends with them. She has no kids of her own and would make a wonderful mom. She is stunned when her friend, Ellie Winston shows up at her door asking her to watch her kids, Lucie and Jason for a few days while she straightens out some things. Ditie quickly agrees but is worried about what kind of scheme her friend is caught up in.
When the police call informing Ditie her friend is dead she feels like she has to do something. Her friend Lurleen has been helping with the kids and they may now be in danger. She will do anything to protect Lucie and Jason. Which may mean moving out of her home and taking time off from work. This mom thing is much harder than she thought. Who knew she would be wrapped up in whatever got Ellie killed?
I really enjoyed this story! Mabel Aphrodite Brown is a strong woman but she doesn’t take off trying to solve everything herself. Detective Mason Garrett is assigned the case. He is the one who notifies Ditie of Ellie’s death. He is the one that comes to talk to the kids and Ditie to get their statements. He becomes invested in their lives right away, and there may just be a little spark between Mason and Ditie. He brings in a hunky P.I. to watch over Ditie, Lurleen, and the kids when he can’t be there. Later we meet Mason’s mom, a retired police officer. Together they all work to solve the case. It was refreshing to watch it all play out, even with the bumps the powers that be put in the road.
Sarah Osbourne gave us such wonderful characters. We learn some of their backstories, some of which may not be entirely truthful in Lureen’s case, while enjoying getting to know them in the present. They have tons of room to grow. I was immediately engaged and wanted to know all of them better. The children, Lucie and Jason have had a hard life, Lucie more mature than her actual 9 years. She was responsible for 5-year-old Jason even when their mother was still alive. My heart broke for them. I can’t wait to see them hopefully develop more natural relationships as they grow.
In addition to these characters, Ms. Osboune gives us one heck of a mystery. So many people seem to be involved, one that was very surprising. Some great red herring diversions kept me guessing. It had some really suspenseful moments and some of the subject matter was a little grittier than in traditional cozy mysteries. The author tempered this with the right about of romance and humor.
I did find myself very emotional about the children in this story. Not just Lucie and Jason but the ones seen at the refugee clinic. With the way, children are now being taken away from their parents at the Mexican border and put in cages, and people seeking asylum being arrested instead of helped, Ditie has a very relevant job. While the story takes place in Georgia there are still families there that need help and I love that Mabel Aphrodite Brown is dedicated to just that.
This series is off to a super start!
Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown – Ditie – who spends her life saving kids. She works at a refugee clinic and sees kids with everything from malnutrition to abusing “uncles”. She comes to care a lot about these children in just the few minutes she spends with them. She has no kids of her own and would make a wonderful mom. She is stunned when her friend, Ellie Winston shows up at her door asking her to watch her kids, Lucie and Jason for a few days while she straightens out some things. Ditie quickly agrees but is worried about what kind of scheme her friend is caught up in.
When the police call informing Ditie her friend is dead she feels like she has to do something. Her friend Lurleen has been helping with the kids and they may now be in danger. She will do anything to protect Lucie and Jason. Which may mean moving out of her home and taking time off from work. This mom thing is much harder than she thought. Who knew she would be wrapped up in whatever got Ellie killed?
I really enjoyed this story! Mabel Aphrodite Brown is a strong woman but she doesn’t take off trying to solve everything herself. Detective Mason Garrett is assigned the case. He is the one who notifies Ditie of Ellie’s death. He is the one that comes to talk to the kids and Ditie to get their statements. He becomes invested in their lives right away, and there may just be a little spark between Mason and Ditie. He brings in a hunky P.I. to watch over Ditie, Lurleen, and the kids when he can’t be there. Later we meet Mason’s mom, a retired police officer. Together they all work to solve the case. It was refreshing to watch it all play out, even with the bumps the powers that be put in the road.
Sarah Osbourne gave us such wonderful characters. We learn some of their backstories, some of which may not be entirely truthful in Lureen’s case, while enjoying getting to know them in the present. They have tons of room to grow. I was immediately engaged and wanted to know all of them better. The children, Lucie and Jason have had a hard life, Lucie more mature than her actual 9 years. She was responsible for 5-year-old Jason even when their mother was still alive. My heart broke for them. I can’t wait to see them hopefully develop more natural relationships as they grow.
In addition to these characters, Ms. Osboune gives us one heck of a mystery. So many people seem to be involved, one that was very surprising. Some great red herring diversions kept me guessing. It had some really suspenseful moments and some of the subject matter was a little grittier than in traditional cozy mysteries. The author tempered this with the right about of romance and humor.
I did find myself very emotional about the children in this story. Not just Lucie and Jason but the ones seen at the refugee clinic. With the way, children are now being taken away from their parents at the Mexican border and put in cages, and people seeking asylum being arrested instead of helped, Ditie has a very relevant job. While the story takes place in Georgia there are still families there that need help and I love that Mabel Aphrodite Brown is dedicated to just that.
This series is off to a super start!
April 14, 2018
Release Date: May 29, 2018
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 3 stars
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is the first book in the Ditie Brown Mystery series. As with all cozies, there is a murder, a sleuthing woman hellbent on finding the killer (sometimes a male, but mostly women), and some twists and turns. For the most part, I did enjoy reading this one. I liked the characters and setting. However, this book didn't feel lighthearted like most cozies. There was a ton of emotion wrapped into the book as the sleuth becomes a guardian for her friends children who happened to be the victim of the story. So not only was she trying to solve her friends murder but she was also thrust into a mothering role herself for the kids. This is all original which is great, but I wanted a light and fluffy read and this really wasn't it.
If you are a cozy mystery fan and are looking for a new series to start then you may want to check out this book. Although I am warning you that it isn't a lighthearted read like many of cozies you may be used too.
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 3 stars
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is the first book in the Ditie Brown Mystery series. As with all cozies, there is a murder, a sleuthing woman hellbent on finding the killer (sometimes a male, but mostly women), and some twists and turns. For the most part, I did enjoy reading this one. I liked the characters and setting. However, this book didn't feel lighthearted like most cozies. There was a ton of emotion wrapped into the book as the sleuth becomes a guardian for her friends children who happened to be the victim of the story. So not only was she trying to solve her friends murder but she was also thrust into a mothering role herself for the kids. This is all original which is great, but I wanted a light and fluffy read and this really wasn't it.
If you are a cozy mystery fan and are looking for a new series to start then you may want to check out this book. Although I am warning you that it isn't a lighthearted read like many of cozies you may be used too.
August 24, 2018
TOO MANY CROOKS SPOIL THE PLOT is an excellent beginning to the new Ditie Brown Mystery series. Author Sarah Osborne has created a a strong protagonist in Mable Aphrodite "Ditie" Brown. I had emotional ups and downs most of the book, and on the edge of my seat during the last several chapters. I wouldn't say it is a cozy so much as a mystery with cozy aspects. It's a lot deeper at times because of a tragedy that effects two children. That being said, I enjoyed the story and I'm looking forward to the next book in this series.
June 7, 2018
This was such a good start for a brand new series! And it was well-titled too because there were definitely a LOT of crooks in this story, or at least suspects!
Ditie Brown was a pediatrician working at a refugee children's clinic in Atlanta, GA when her childhood friend Ellie asked her to watch her own two kids for a few days. When Ellie ended up murdered, Ditie knew she had to protect these kids. With the help of her best friend Lurleen and her new detective friend, Mason, Ditie had to keep moving the kids around to keep them safe and that made them all wonder just what sort of possible corporate espionage was going on at Sandler Soda. After three total deaths and Mason being removed from the case, it was looking more and more complicated. Ditie was wondering where in this puzzle did her brother Charlie fit in.
Everything eventually came together and got explained very satisfactorily at the end. I always like reading about what happens to some of the minor characters. I especially was happy to see Dan, the private investigator/ex-cop and Lurleen hitting it off as well as Mason and Ditie growing closer.
This book had the excitement I remember from thrillers but none of the creepy factor. It was fun and funny in some parts. Lurleen was such a character! Who wouldn't want a best friend like her? She was great with the kids and loyal to a fault, which at one point Ditie was hoping wouldn't also get her killed or hurt. Lurleen is one of my new favorite best friends in a series.
Mason's mom, Eddie was awesome too. I really hope we get to see more of her in future books, ahem I think she makes fabulous mother-in-law material ;) I love that she was an ex-cop and a sharpshooter as well. When Mason suggested staying at her house with the kids, he knew it would be safe as Fort Knox with his mom on watch. The two kids, Lucie (8) and Jason (4) were actually pretty nice kids and weren't written as annoying brats or anything. Lucie was used to protecting her brother since they'd had a rough life with Ellie as their mom. (She was good to them but she had questionable friends.)
I never saw the killer coming at all, what a surprise! There were some great red herrings and plot twists. I enjoyed reading the sneak preview chapter at the end for the next book. There were also some of the yummy recipes that were made throughout the book since Lucie loved to cook and so did Ditie and Eddie.
Ditie Brown was a pediatrician working at a refugee children's clinic in Atlanta, GA when her childhood friend Ellie asked her to watch her own two kids for a few days. When Ellie ended up murdered, Ditie knew she had to protect these kids. With the help of her best friend Lurleen and her new detective friend, Mason, Ditie had to keep moving the kids around to keep them safe and that made them all wonder just what sort of possible corporate espionage was going on at Sandler Soda. After three total deaths and Mason being removed from the case, it was looking more and more complicated. Ditie was wondering where in this puzzle did her brother Charlie fit in.
Everything eventually came together and got explained very satisfactorily at the end. I always like reading about what happens to some of the minor characters. I especially was happy to see Dan, the private investigator/ex-cop and Lurleen hitting it off as well as Mason and Ditie growing closer.
This book had the excitement I remember from thrillers but none of the creepy factor. It was fun and funny in some parts. Lurleen was such a character! Who wouldn't want a best friend like her? She was great with the kids and loyal to a fault, which at one point Ditie was hoping wouldn't also get her killed or hurt. Lurleen is one of my new favorite best friends in a series.
Mason's mom, Eddie was awesome too. I really hope we get to see more of her in future books, ahem I think she makes fabulous mother-in-law material ;) I love that she was an ex-cop and a sharpshooter as well. When Mason suggested staying at her house with the kids, he knew it would be safe as Fort Knox with his mom on watch. The two kids, Lucie (8) and Jason (4) were actually pretty nice kids and weren't written as annoying brats or anything. Lucie was used to protecting her brother since they'd had a rough life with Ellie as their mom. (She was good to them but she had questionable friends.)
I never saw the killer coming at all, what a surprise! There were some great red herrings and plot twists. I enjoyed reading the sneak preview chapter at the end for the next book. There were also some of the yummy recipes that were made throughout the book since Lucie loved to cook and so did Ditie and Eddie.
April 27, 2018
I really enjoyed this one, it was relatable, realistic and inviting. The characters really made it for me; warm, true to life and charming, from the capable Ditie, stepping up to take in Ellie's kids to the sassy Lurleen to the sweet romance between Ditie and Mason, I found myself roped in from the first page. Lurleen is really the one I want to know more about, her back story was hinted at several times in the book and I'm looking forward to learning more about her. The suspenseful plot kept me glued to the pages, the corporate espionage angle was interesting and intriguing (I want to try that product!) but I have to say, that ending....I'm not sure what I was expecting, but it wasn't that. It was a little convoluted. Not bad, just a bit confusing who was one what side. Also, the TSTL moment by one of the characters at the end just felt a bit unrealistic (I don't want to spoil, but jeeeeez.) But it was a great mystery and an edge of your seat and the recipes included at the end of the book sound delicious and there's a couple I can't wait to try. An excellent start to a new series and one I'll look forward to reading more of in the future.
October 24, 2020
Although not your usual light-hearted cozy, this book has all the elements of the cozy subgenre including interesting, well-rounded characters; a determined, clever, and caring amateur sleuth; non-graphic deaths/murders that are somehow connected; several suspects with possible motives to kill; anxious and dangerous situations/moments for action; and a small community setting; and some light romance. I really like the main character, Ditie, nickname for Mabel Aphrodite Brown, who is an MD specializing in pediatrics and who generously agrees to care for her past best friend's children, Lucie, almost nine and Jason, five. Ditie, who knows her friend Ellie has a history of trouble, senses that Ellie is in trouble again. Soon after, Ellie is murdered and Ditie is determined to find the killers as she also cares for and comes to love the children. Another character is Ditie's friend, Lurleen, who is devoted to Ditie and comes to love the children as well and provides some comic relief with her faux French accent and playtime with the children. She has a secret past of her own and is sympathetic toward the children's upbringing and loss of parents. The emotions of the children at the loss of their mother and the fears we discover they harbor about the "bad people" in their lives are poignant.
Along with some suspenseful moments and the twists and turns of the mystery, the author also makes a statement about societal problems of spousal and child abuse, both physical and psychological, providing some realism and darker mood to the book not usually found in a cozy.
Along with some suspenseful moments and the twists and turns of the mystery, the author also makes a statement about societal problems of spousal and child abuse, both physical and psychological, providing some realism and darker mood to the book not usually found in a cozy.
March 20, 2018
Awesome book! Complex story, interesting characters. Couldn't put it down. Can't wait to read more.
May 28, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot by Sarah Osborne is the first A Ditie Brown Mystery. Mabel “Ditie” Brown is a pediatrician who works and lives in Atlanta, Georgia. She is surprised when Ellie Winston, who she has not seen in two years, show up at her house. Ellie only shows up when she is in trouble and this time is no exception. She asks if Ditie can watch her two children for a few days while she handles a matter. Ditie picks up the kids from a rundown apartment that evening and Ellie is not in residence (she left them alone). After 12 a.m. Mabel gets a call from Detective Mason Garrett. Ellie was found murdered in midtown with a note that Ditie is take care of her kids if something happens to her. What had Ellie been up to this time? The killer believes the kids or Ditie have something they want, and they will do whatever it takes to get it. They only way to protect the children is to track down the guilty party. Ditie and the kids are in for a harrowing time in Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot.
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is not your traditional cozy mystery. The main character, Mabel “Ditie” Brown is a pediatrician who works at a refugee clinic. Some of her patient stories are shared in the book (sad situations). Then we have Ellie Winston who frequently leaves her two kids (under nine) alone at home and has questionable ways of raising money. Ellie is then murdered and Ditie is left with two children to raise. It is distressing that Lucie Winston (age 9) has been responsible for caring for her brother, Jason (age 5). The tales from the children are just heartbreaking. The mystery has some good components and there is action that helps move the story forward. I do wish it had been harder to solve. The responsible party can easily be singled out (if you have not solved this one by the time you are halfway through the book, you need to turn in your deerstalker cap). The small-town charm and some light-hearted humor (a little levity) is missing from Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot. The background on Ditie was lacking as well. The writing lacked an ease to it and the pace was slow (the book seemed long when it was only 244 pages). There is romance (of course) between Ditie and Detective Garrett. Detective Garrett should have focused more on his job instead of Ditie and fewer errors would have been made. There are cozy moments with cooking, eating, baking, and the kids. I felt that the author missed the mark with Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot. My rating is 3 out of 5 for Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot.
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is not your traditional cozy mystery. The main character, Mabel “Ditie” Brown is a pediatrician who works at a refugee clinic. Some of her patient stories are shared in the book (sad situations). Then we have Ellie Winston who frequently leaves her two kids (under nine) alone at home and has questionable ways of raising money. Ellie is then murdered and Ditie is left with two children to raise. It is distressing that Lucie Winston (age 9) has been responsible for caring for her brother, Jason (age 5). The tales from the children are just heartbreaking. The mystery has some good components and there is action that helps move the story forward. I do wish it had been harder to solve. The responsible party can easily be singled out (if you have not solved this one by the time you are halfway through the book, you need to turn in your deerstalker cap). The small-town charm and some light-hearted humor (a little levity) is missing from Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot. The background on Ditie was lacking as well. The writing lacked an ease to it and the pace was slow (the book seemed long when it was only 244 pages). There is romance (of course) between Ditie and Detective Garrett. Detective Garrett should have focused more on his job instead of Ditie and fewer errors would have been made. There are cozy moments with cooking, eating, baking, and the kids. I felt that the author missed the mark with Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot. My rating is 3 out of 5 for Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot.
April 30, 2018
Sarah Osborne is a new to me author and for the most part I liked this first book in her new Ditie Brown Mystery series. I found Ditie to be a likable character that came across the page as genuine, warm and caring. The secondary cast of characters is diverse in gender, personality and occupation. There is plenty of room for these characters to grow and develop allowing them to remain interesting and engaging. The mystery was solid and the author wove plenty of twists and turns into the plot to keep the reader guessing as to the culprit(s). The reason for the 3 star rating is that this story was packed with so many sad emotions. It may be my particular circumstances that made the emotions more prevalent than for others. I'm just not used to my cozy mysteries having such heavy emotions in the first book in a series.
However, that said, I did enjoy the book and will be back to see what Ms. Osborne has in store next for these characters. I'm interested to see how they grow and what paths they will travel.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Underground, through Netgalley.
However, that said, I did enjoy the book and will be back to see what Ms. Osborne has in store next for these characters. I'm interested to see how they grow and what paths they will travel.
I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Underground, through Netgalley.
May 29, 2018
I can’t recommend this book enough! If you are a cozy mystery fan who likes smart, warm and complex characters, I suggest you read, Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot. It starts off cozy, engaging and delightful. It quickly becomes absorbing and suspenseful. Who was Ellie, really? What was she involved in? Why did she take that risk the day she dropped her children off with Mabel? What did Phil want? You’ll find yourself asking all these questions and more by chapter three! The pacing is perfect and the story-line enjoyable. Five Stars.
December 6, 2018
4.5* A super first in series. Perhaps not much a cozy but a very good read nonetheless. Already looking forward to the next when it comes out.
November 29, 2018
Ok, this doesn't seem like a cozy mystery. It isn't graphic, but the issues are a bit darker.
What I enjoyed:
* Ditie is a great character. She is a doctor who works at a refugee clinic and ends up agreeing to watch her friends kids to keep them safe.
* Lurleen is an interesting character who is full of "stories" from her life.
* Actually all the characters were intriguing. The brother who wants his privacy, the ex-cop mother, the PI, etc
* Looks like there is just one love interest, which makes me happy and he seems like a good guy and a good cop.
What could have been better:
* A very convoluted mystery
* The kids seemed to adjust to there new (and constantly changing) circumstances a bit too easily.
*
What I enjoyed:
* Ditie is a great character. She is a doctor who works at a refugee clinic and ends up agreeing to watch her friends kids to keep them safe.
* Lurleen is an interesting character who is full of "stories" from her life.
* Actually all the characters were intriguing. The brother who wants his privacy, the ex-cop mother, the PI, etc
* Looks like there is just one love interest, which makes me happy and he seems like a good guy and a good cop.
What could have been better:
* A very convoluted mystery
* The kids seemed to adjust to there new (and constantly changing) circumstances a bit too easily.
*
June 1, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot by Sarah Osborne is the 1st book in A Ditie Brown Mystery series, and my first book by this author. Dr. Mabel, Ditie, Brown is a pediatrician. When Ditie's childhood friend asked her to take care of her two kids for a couple of days, she agrees. Unfortunately the children's mother is murdered, and Ditie vows to find the murderer. I really enjoyed this book, it was unique, and filled with twists and turns. I found this book a little more serious than most cozy, but very enjoyable. Looking forward to reading the next book in the series. I recommended this book for mystery lovers.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 3, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is the first book in Sarah Osborne’s Ditie Brown Mystery series. The characters are three dimensional and likeable and the storyline is well plotted and complex. This book is more absorbing and suspenseful than most cozies. There’s a lot of emotion on the pages of this book, with both tear jerking and laugh aloud moments, and romance in the air. There’s no shortage of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in this series and seeing how the characters develop.
Mabel Aphrodite Brown, whose nickname Ditie, is a pediatrician in Atlanta, who is currently working in a refugee clinic. She has two fur babies; Hermoine, a half German shepherd, half collie dog, and Majestic, a large orange cat. She has one sibling, Tommy, who wants her to agree to sell the family dairy farm in Iowa, but she wants to hold on to it. Ellie Winston, a childhood friend who Ditie hasn’t seen in two years, shows up at Ditie’s house unannounced, needing a big favor. Ellie asks her to watch her children, eight-year-old Lucie and almost five-year-old Jason, for a few days. Even though Ditie had doubts about what Ellie has gotten herself into this time, she agrees to watch Lucie and Jason and enlists the help of her best friend, Lurleen de Trois, to watch them when she’s scheduled to work. After seven years of no contact, Ditie’s old flame who she’s never really gotten over, Phil Brockton, contacts her and wants to get together. A call wakes her up at midnight the first night the children are with her and she thinks it might be Ellie, but it turns out the caller was Detective Mason Garrett who asked if he could come talk with her. Ellie had been found, shot in the head, and they found Ditie’s address in her purse, along with a note that she was to take care of the children should anything happen to her. After a break-in occurs and the children are threatened if an unidentified object isn’t handed over, Mason has his friend and private investigator, Dan Devalle, stay at Ditie’s to protect them. After more threats are made, they move into Lurleen’s house and finally end up staying with Mason’s mother, Eddie, who is a retired policewoman and the force’s first female sharpshooter. Mason, who shares a mutual attraction with Ditie, shows signs of jealousy when Phil leaves a yellow rose at Ditie’s door and wants to get together with her. When Mason is removed from the case, Ditie wonders who can be trusted and if she’ll be able to protect the children. The group works together, caring for Lucie and Jason, searching for clues, and investigating leads.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Mabel Aphrodite Brown, whose nickname Ditie, is a pediatrician in Atlanta, who is currently working in a refugee clinic. She has two fur babies; Hermoine, a half German shepherd, half collie dog, and Majestic, a large orange cat. She has one sibling, Tommy, who wants her to agree to sell the family dairy farm in Iowa, but she wants to hold on to it. Ellie Winston, a childhood friend who Ditie hasn’t seen in two years, shows up at Ditie’s house unannounced, needing a big favor. Ellie asks her to watch her children, eight-year-old Lucie and almost five-year-old Jason, for a few days. Even though Ditie had doubts about what Ellie has gotten herself into this time, she agrees to watch Lucie and Jason and enlists the help of her best friend, Lurleen de Trois, to watch them when she’s scheduled to work. After seven years of no contact, Ditie’s old flame who she’s never really gotten over, Phil Brockton, contacts her and wants to get together. A call wakes her up at midnight the first night the children are with her and she thinks it might be Ellie, but it turns out the caller was Detective Mason Garrett who asked if he could come talk with her. Ellie had been found, shot in the head, and they found Ditie’s address in her purse, along with a note that she was to take care of the children should anything happen to her. After a break-in occurs and the children are threatened if an unidentified object isn’t handed over, Mason has his friend and private investigator, Dan Devalle, stay at Ditie’s to protect them. After more threats are made, they move into Lurleen’s house and finally end up staying with Mason’s mother, Eddie, who is a retired policewoman and the force’s first female sharpshooter. Mason, who shares a mutual attraction with Ditie, shows signs of jealousy when Phil leaves a yellow rose at Ditie’s door and wants to get together with her. When Mason is removed from the case, Ditie wonders who can be trusted and if she’ll be able to protect the children. The group works together, caring for Lucie and Jason, searching for clues, and investigating leads.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
October 8, 2021
She writes competently, but this was a painful read. It was 2-3x longer than need be. It read like a diary (in that it had a lot of boring musings and rehashing of the same thoughts...) plus food journal. I don't care what was prepared and eaten for every single meal for every single main character. I just don't. I can't remember every meal I eat without looking at myfitnesspal entries, and unless I'm at the allergist and he's asking me, well what the hell did you eat that caused this, I don't care to re-read my food journal, let alone someone else's.
Then there's the main character/POV. She's a doctor. At The Kid's Refugee Clinic. Not "a" clinic, THE Clinic. That's how it's written. The magical clinic that is NOT ASSOCIATED with a university hospital, that apparently runs on moonbeams and rainbows because this doesn't happen in real life. Oh, and you know, those refugees from a bunch of places that couldn't have refugees based on the age of the book and the age of the kids.
But never mind that, let's say in imaginary land, everyone in the entire world is a refugee and they were magically saved by the US and now got free medical care from the moonbeam funded clinic that's ONLY for refugee kids 😒. She's a doctor there. At the clinic for refugees. Wait, did I mention she's a doctor? At the special clinic? For refugees?
I still haven't told you that's she's a doctor, for kids who are refugees, at a kid's who are refugees clinic, as many times as she's mentioned it.
Are you getting the picture at how tedious this was?
Ah and this was a mystery. Do we really care whodunit? No. Was it shocking or exciting? No. Did I finish this book solely by only reading it while brushing my teeth? (And while flossing!) Yes! Flossing was more exciting.
Then there's the main character/POV. She's a doctor. At The Kid's Refugee Clinic. Not "a" clinic, THE Clinic. That's how it's written. The magical clinic that is NOT ASSOCIATED with a university hospital, that apparently runs on moonbeams and rainbows because this doesn't happen in real life. Oh, and you know, those refugees from a bunch of places that couldn't have refugees based on the age of the book and the age of the kids.
But never mind that, let's say in imaginary land, everyone in the entire world is a refugee and they were magically saved by the US and now got free medical care from the moonbeam funded clinic that's ONLY for refugee kids 😒. She's a doctor there. At the clinic for refugees. Wait, did I mention she's a doctor? At the special clinic? For refugees?
I still haven't told you that's she's a doctor, for kids who are refugees, at a kid's who are refugees clinic, as many times as she's mentioned it.
Are you getting the picture at how tedious this was?
Ah and this was a mystery. Do we really care whodunit? No. Was it shocking or exciting? No. Did I finish this book solely by only reading it while brushing my teeth? (And while flossing!) Yes! Flossing was more exciting.
March 16, 2022
This is the first book in the Ditie Brown mystery series.. This book was engaging from the beginning. Ditie, otherwise known as Dr. Mabel Aphrodite Brown, is a pediatrician in Atlanta, living on her family's farm.
Ditie's childhood friend Ellie comes to her asking for a favor - Ellie needed to take care of some things and hoped Ditie would babysit her two children. Ellie is murdered on this outing, and Ditie is left with the children and a murderer to catch.
It's clear that Ellie was involved in some shady business, and that there are bad men looking for something they believe Ellie left behind.
This story was full of wonderful characters who you really imagine you could know in real life. I thought the story was great and I look forward to more in this series to come.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries.
Ditie's childhood friend Ellie comes to her asking for a favor - Ellie needed to take care of some things and hoped Ditie would babysit her two children. Ellie is murdered on this outing, and Ditie is left with the children and a murderer to catch.
It's clear that Ellie was involved in some shady business, and that there are bad men looking for something they believe Ellie left behind.
This story was full of wonderful characters who you really imagine you could know in real life. I thought the story was great and I look forward to more in this series to come.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries.
February 6, 2019
Title should be too many pages in the book
The most convoluted plot. It just goes on and on repeating the same thing in the same way over and over. Bring it together already. The characters repeat the same actions, the same feelings, the same words. I thought it would never end. The author needs to keep her day job.
The most convoluted plot. It just goes on and on repeating the same thing in the same way over and over. Bring it together already. The characters repeat the same actions, the same feelings, the same words. I thought it would never end. The author needs to keep her day job.
May 5, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is the debut of the A Ditie Brown Mystery series set in Atlanta and featuring pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite "Ditie" Brown. Not one to stay in any one place for too long, Ditie is settling into her position at the Children's Refugee Clinic and is trying hard to get along with her brother Tommy who is constantly badgering her to sell the family dairy farm in Iowa.
When Tommy's ex high school girlfriend Eleanor "Ellie" Winston appears on her sidewalk and needs a favor, Ditie knows that since Ellie only surfaces when she needs help getting out of a jam, she should really say no. But, Ellie only wants her to watch her two small children, Lucie and Jason, for the weekend so she agrees and asks best friend Lurleen du Trois to help out. Unfortunately, Ellie turns up dead and Ditie discovers that she's been named as the children's full time guardian.
Determined to find out who killed her friend and ripped apart the lives of the children, Ditie sets out with the help of Lurleen and Detective Mason Garrett to track down a killer. Her investigation turns up a shady, baby daddy, uncovers corporate espionage at Sandler's Soda, Ellie's place of employment, and also discovers that Tommy might be somehow be involved and hiding something.
I really enjoyed the book from start to finish although the subject matter is a little darker than the traditional cozy. The mystery was very well planned out and I didn't suspect whodunit until close to the end and the author's writing style in describing Ditie's relationship with the kids was very touching and thought provoking. For a minute it seemed as though the author was going to introduce the dreaded love triangle but fortunately squashed it in the bud. I will definitely be tuning into the next in series to see what adventures are in store for Ditie, her friends and new found family.
I received an advanced copy of Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground, a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
When Tommy's ex high school girlfriend Eleanor "Ellie" Winston appears on her sidewalk and needs a favor, Ditie knows that since Ellie only surfaces when she needs help getting out of a jam, she should really say no. But, Ellie only wants her to watch her two small children, Lucie and Jason, for the weekend so she agrees and asks best friend Lurleen du Trois to help out. Unfortunately, Ellie turns up dead and Ditie discovers that she's been named as the children's full time guardian.
Determined to find out who killed her friend and ripped apart the lives of the children, Ditie sets out with the help of Lurleen and Detective Mason Garrett to track down a killer. Her investigation turns up a shady, baby daddy, uncovers corporate espionage at Sandler's Soda, Ellie's place of employment, and also discovers that Tommy might be somehow be involved and hiding something.
I really enjoyed the book from start to finish although the subject matter is a little darker than the traditional cozy. The mystery was very well planned out and I didn't suspect whodunit until close to the end and the author's writing style in describing Ditie's relationship with the kids was very touching and thought provoking. For a minute it seemed as though the author was going to introduce the dreaded love triangle but fortunately squashed it in the bud. I will definitely be tuning into the next in series to see what adventures are in store for Ditie, her friends and new found family.
I received an advanced copy of Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot from NetGalley via Lyrical Underground, a division of Kensington Publishing. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
July 10, 2018
I am always on the lookout for a new mystery or series. Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot by Sarah Osbourne is a fast-moving, intriguing mystery that has some very likable characters, a few to dislike, and a few from which to run.
Ditie(short for Aphrodite), Lurlene, and Jason and Lucie are arguably some of the most likable. Ditie is a pediatrician who finds herself suddenly in charge of her friend’s children. Jason and Lucie are adorable, childlike and adult-like by turns, making one’s heart ache and eyes overflow. Lurlene pretends to be French in a cute way and also helps with childcare.
Mason and Dan give the ladies in the book some romance. My complaint would be that Mason never really romances Ditie, he just acts “settled” that she is for him.
The author does a great job of providing plenty of twists and turns in this mystery, until my head was reeling with suspect possibilities. I found it hard to figure out who was really behind the murders.
One thing I didn’t care for was a spate of bad language thrown in towards the middle. Maybe to keep the book from getting a PG rating? I would personally prefer the PG rating. One of the tenets of a cozy used to be “no bad language.”
The recipes at the back were quite reasonable, even for someone who considers herself a non-cook. Yum!
I will be checking out the next book, to see how the series progresses. If you like children, police business, and cozies, you may want to check it out this series, also.
Ditie(short for Aphrodite), Lurlene, and Jason and Lucie are arguably some of the most likable. Ditie is a pediatrician who finds herself suddenly in charge of her friend’s children. Jason and Lucie are adorable, childlike and adult-like by turns, making one’s heart ache and eyes overflow. Lurlene pretends to be French in a cute way and also helps with childcare.
Mason and Dan give the ladies in the book some romance. My complaint would be that Mason never really romances Ditie, he just acts “settled” that she is for him.
The author does a great job of providing plenty of twists and turns in this mystery, until my head was reeling with suspect possibilities. I found it hard to figure out who was really behind the murders.
One thing I didn’t care for was a spate of bad language thrown in towards the middle. Maybe to keep the book from getting a PG rating? I would personally prefer the PG rating. One of the tenets of a cozy used to be “no bad language.”
The recipes at the back were quite reasonable, even for someone who considers herself a non-cook. Yum!
I will be checking out the next book, to see how the series progresses. If you like children, police business, and cozies, you may want to check it out this series, also.
August 7, 2018
First of all, the title is a misnomer - there are a LOT of crooks here, including a whole school of red herrings, but they don't spoil the plot. Actually, the plot was quite good, and very convoluted with an unexpected climax and resolution. Mable Aphrodite Brown is a wonderful main protagonist for what has the potential to be a great new series.
The one thing that bothered me at first is that children were at risk, which I don't like. The only saving grace to that was a wonderful band of protectors who work hard to keep those kids safe at all cost. There was also a romantic item here, which moved along quickly and, though I had my doubts at first, didn't impact the story that much. As I was reading I even managed to pick up some good baking tips (and I don't bake!).
I like the main character as she has been developed, and all the people around her, especially her good friend Lurleen, who has a lot of secrets to tell. I am looking forward to their next adventure. Great job by Sarah Osborne!
The one thing that bothered me at first is that children were at risk, which I don't like. The only saving grace to that was a wonderful band of protectors who work hard to keep those kids safe at all cost. There was also a romantic item here, which moved along quickly and, though I had my doubts at first, didn't impact the story that much. As I was reading I even managed to pick up some good baking tips (and I don't bake!).
I like the main character as she has been developed, and all the people around her, especially her good friend Lurleen, who has a lot of secrets to tell. I am looking forward to their next adventure. Great job by Sarah Osborne!
May 14, 2019
The first book in the Ditie Brown series and a new author for me. It is character driven and I fill in love with the characters immediately. Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown aka as Ditie Brown is working at a refugee clinic in Atlanta, Georgia when Ellie Winston asked her to watch her children, Lucie and Jason for the weekend. Ditie agree at once and was looking forward to the weekend. Late the evening Ditie is awoken by a police homicide detective who informs her that they have found Ellie shot dead and left a on the street. Someone is stalking Ditie and the children and it is necessary to move the children as the stalker find the new location. Ditie is added by her French friend Lurleen. The detective, Mason Garrett becomes a friend. He hires Dan, PI to protect Ditie, Lucie and Jason. The story takes several turns for the children safety and adds new individuals in the process. A couple of romances occur. Who is stalking the children and what do they want? Is someone given the Stalker information? I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK. Family-friendly recipes are included.
June 1, 2018
This random find on NetGalley ended up being a gem of a book! I absolutely loved everything about it, from the charming characters to the twisty mystery. I fell in love with almost every person in the book, which is rare for me. Usually I really like a couple of characters and am neutral about the rest, but everyone in this book was so endearing and likable!
The mystery itself was very well done. It kept me guessing until the main reveal, and left me shocked. So many times I thought I knew what was going on and in the end I knew nothing. I love when that happens!
All in all, I highly recommend this book!
*5 Stars
** Special thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery itself was very well done. It kept me guessing until the main reveal, and left me shocked. So many times I thought I knew what was going on and in the end I knew nothing. I love when that happens!
All in all, I highly recommend this book!
*5 Stars
** Special thanks to NetGalley and Kensington for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2018
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot is an excellent start to a new series.
I was hooked from the very beginning. Ditie ( short for Aphrodite) is a fun, colorful character and I enjoyed getting to know her and her friends.
When an old friend of Ditie shows up unexpectedly, with a big favor, Ditie has no idea what she is in for.
The story was suspenseful and interesting and found myself wondering just who in the heck Ellie was!
This book will appeal to all cozy mystery fans, young and old and in between.
I volunteered to read and and review an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and NetGalley.
I was hooked from the very beginning. Ditie ( short for Aphrodite) is a fun, colorful character and I enjoyed getting to know her and her friends.
When an old friend of Ditie shows up unexpectedly, with a big favor, Ditie has no idea what she is in for.
The story was suspenseful and interesting and found myself wondering just who in the heck Ellie was!
This book will appeal to all cozy mystery fans, young and old and in between.
I volunteered to read and and review an ARC of this book offered by the publisher and NetGalley.
October 10, 2020
This new-to-me series was a spectacular find. I wish I could remember who set me up with it; I owe them many thanks. The main character, Mabel (aka Ditie) has a no-nonsense yet warm tone to her narration and the mystery wove down so many garden paths before finally reaching its destination. The only thing I'd love to see done differently is Lurleen, her sidekick. This character was, for me, too artificial with her insinuated yet unspoken backstory, her overblown mannerisms, and her broken French phrases that the rest of the cast then needed to translate for an English speaking audience. Normally, a unique character is one I cherish, but Lurleen was a little too much of a good thing.
Overall, it was hard to put this book down. This series is definitely a keeper!
Overall, it was hard to put this book down. This series is definitely a keeper!
November 8, 2022
A quick read that tries to be Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple with Hercules Poirot but falls short. I probably won’t bother with any more in this series .
October 30, 2020
A Delicious Mystery
Plenty of twists and turns to keep one on the edge of their seat. Interesting characters, hopeful romance could develop in the next book. Fingers crossed!
Plenty of twists and turns to keep one on the edge of their seat. Interesting characters, hopeful romance could develop in the next book. Fingers crossed!
October 24, 2020
I didn't realize this was the 1st of many mysteries to come. I usually don't like to read these because then I want to continue & don't always want to buy another book.
I enjoyed the story although it wasn't "keep you on the edge of your seat kind" of mystery. It was interesting & I liked all the characters but again because there is another book to follow, I didn't feel quite satisfied with the end. I may try to find the follow up but its not yelling at me to come find it.
I enjoyed the story although it wasn't "keep you on the edge of your seat kind" of mystery. It was interesting & I liked all the characters but again because there is another book to follow, I didn't feel quite satisfied with the end. I may try to find the follow up but its not yelling at me to come find it.
June 11, 2018
http://openbooksociety.com/article/to...
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot
A Ditie Brown Mystery, Book #1
By Sarah Osborne
ISBN: 9781516108107
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown adores kids. So when a childhood friend asks Ditie to babysit her kids for a few days, she jumps at the chance. She never imagined she’d be solving a murder too.
Despite growing up together, Ditie hasn’t seen Ellie Winston in two years, and she didn’t even know Ellie was living in Atlanta. But when Ellie asks her to take care of Lucie and Jason for the weekend, she thinks nothing of it. They’ll bake cookies together, play with her dog—it’ll be fun! Until the police call with terrible news.
Ellie may not have been the best friend, but who would want her dead? Could it have something to do with the vague get-rich-quick scheme she mentioned to Ditie? Or the men in a black truck following her and breaking into her home? Not sure who to trust other than her best friend, Lurleen, Ditie’s buried maternal instincts kick in to protect the kids and find their mother’s killer—before they’re orphaned again. (Goodreads)
Review:
Never have I been so enamored with a first book in a cozy mystery series! Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot just hit the spot for me. Right from the beginning I was immersed in the story telling, the plot, the characters. It seemed that the writing style was also a bit different than the general population of cozy mysteries that I have read recently and that really hit the spot for me. Even the cover art grabbed me…an orange and white cat, cinnamon buns and tulips (some having fallen down). Just the right mix! I even enjoyed some of the character’s odd names (Lurleen or Aphrodite’s nickname of Ditie) …. which is unusual for me.
As the title alludes to… there were many crooks in this cozy mystery. The story begins when an old friend (Ellie – Eleanor is her full name), whom she had not seen in over two years, comes to Aphrodite’s (Ditie for short) house to “Chat a bit” – which is Eleanor speak for “I have a problem.” Ellie asks if her kids could stay just a few days with Ditie. Without hesitation, Ditie says:
“Of course”. “But why do you need me to do that?”
Ellie fidgeted. ��There’s just something I have to do. And I can’t do it with the kids in tow. I need know they’re safe.”
“Safe?” Now I started to fidget. “Ellie, what are you up to this time?”
“Don’t press me, Ditie. You’re the only one I can turn to. The only person I know I can trust. The only person I’d leave my children with. Lucie talks about you all the time. When will she get to see her Aunt Di?”
Ellie found another of my soft spots – a kid who likes me.
When Ditie agrees so readily, I knew that something bad is going to happen to Ellie…. During the first night the kids are with Ditie, while they are fast asleep, Ditie gets a call (NOT from Ellie like she expects) but from a Detective Mason Garrett. Well sure enough…a murder has occurred and the victim is Ellie. Without further ado, Ditie takes it upon herself (and on behalf of Ellie’s newly orphaned children – Lucie and Jason) to figure out by who’s hand Ellie died and why!
As it turns out, Ellie’s is not the only murder to have taken place (or will take place as the story progresses). And as Ditie gets closer to the truth, it seems that these murders may be connected. Ditie seeks help from her bestie, Lurleen, in looking after the kids. Lurleen talks with a French accent, even though she has never been to France or Quebec for that matter. I loved it…. c’est bon, n’est-ce pas? I loved the smattering of French throughout the book.
As the investigation continues into Ellie’s death, Detective Garrett insists that Ditie and the kids are in danger. So the fun begins! Ditie, Lucie, Jason, Lurlee, Hermione (the dog) and Majestic (the cat) relocate, and relocate. The first new home is that of Tommy (Ditie’s brother). When Ditie was organizing the contents of her brother’s pantry to make dinner, then deciding she would have to go out to get supplies I got the strangest feeling. We do know that Ellie has a past with Tommy (Aphrodite’s brother) – so how does he play into all of this? Time will tell ☺.
As the story continues, many more suspects become evident. And then more deaths. Trying to keep the “gang” safe while he investigates the murder Detective Mason takes them to his mother’s home (she is a retired police officer). Mason even brings in a PI friend (Danny Devalle) to keep an eye on the gang. The sparks fly between Lurleen and Danny … oh la la!
The emotions that were so evident with Jason, trying to process that his mother was never coming back was so hard to read about, I was so sad for Jason. The writing of these emotions were far above what I have encountered in other cozy mysteries – and just one of many reasons why I loved this book.
There are many storylines that could be addressed in future books in this series …but the one that I am most interested in is learning more about Lurleen. Often her past was alluded to but never expounded upon. Can’t wait to read about her past because whatever happened, it has made one interesting lady! And I can’t wait to see how the relationship between Ditie and Mason plays out. And of course, will the kids get to stay with Ditie in the long run?
With such an auspicious beginning to a new series, I cannot wait to see what Sarah Osborne has in store for book 2 of the ‘A Ditie Brown Mystery’ series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot
A Ditie Brown Mystery, Book #1
By Sarah Osborne
ISBN: 9781516108107
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Andra
Summary:
Pediatrician Mabel Aphrodite Brown adores kids. So when a childhood friend asks Ditie to babysit her kids for a few days, she jumps at the chance. She never imagined she’d be solving a murder too.
Despite growing up together, Ditie hasn’t seen Ellie Winston in two years, and she didn’t even know Ellie was living in Atlanta. But when Ellie asks her to take care of Lucie and Jason for the weekend, she thinks nothing of it. They’ll bake cookies together, play with her dog—it’ll be fun! Until the police call with terrible news.
Ellie may not have been the best friend, but who would want her dead? Could it have something to do with the vague get-rich-quick scheme she mentioned to Ditie? Or the men in a black truck following her and breaking into her home? Not sure who to trust other than her best friend, Lurleen, Ditie’s buried maternal instincts kick in to protect the kids and find their mother’s killer—before they’re orphaned again. (Goodreads)
Review:
Never have I been so enamored with a first book in a cozy mystery series! Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot just hit the spot for me. Right from the beginning I was immersed in the story telling, the plot, the characters. It seemed that the writing style was also a bit different than the general population of cozy mysteries that I have read recently and that really hit the spot for me. Even the cover art grabbed me…an orange and white cat, cinnamon buns and tulips (some having fallen down). Just the right mix! I even enjoyed some of the character’s odd names (Lurleen or Aphrodite’s nickname of Ditie) …. which is unusual for me.
As the title alludes to… there were many crooks in this cozy mystery. The story begins when an old friend (Ellie – Eleanor is her full name), whom she had not seen in over two years, comes to Aphrodite’s (Ditie for short) house to “Chat a bit” – which is Eleanor speak for “I have a problem.” Ellie asks if her kids could stay just a few days with Ditie. Without hesitation, Ditie says:
“Of course”. “But why do you need me to do that?”
Ellie fidgeted. ��There’s just something I have to do. And I can’t do it with the kids in tow. I need know they’re safe.”
“Safe?” Now I started to fidget. “Ellie, what are you up to this time?”
“Don’t press me, Ditie. You’re the only one I can turn to. The only person I know I can trust. The only person I’d leave my children with. Lucie talks about you all the time. When will she get to see her Aunt Di?”
Ellie found another of my soft spots – a kid who likes me.
When Ditie agrees so readily, I knew that something bad is going to happen to Ellie…. During the first night the kids are with Ditie, while they are fast asleep, Ditie gets a call (NOT from Ellie like she expects) but from a Detective Mason Garrett. Well sure enough…a murder has occurred and the victim is Ellie. Without further ado, Ditie takes it upon herself (and on behalf of Ellie’s newly orphaned children – Lucie and Jason) to figure out by who’s hand Ellie died and why!
As it turns out, Ellie’s is not the only murder to have taken place (or will take place as the story progresses). And as Ditie gets closer to the truth, it seems that these murders may be connected. Ditie seeks help from her bestie, Lurleen, in looking after the kids. Lurleen talks with a French accent, even though she has never been to France or Quebec for that matter. I loved it…. c’est bon, n’est-ce pas? I loved the smattering of French throughout the book.
As the investigation continues into Ellie’s death, Detective Garrett insists that Ditie and the kids are in danger. So the fun begins! Ditie, Lucie, Jason, Lurlee, Hermione (the dog) and Majestic (the cat) relocate, and relocate. The first new home is that of Tommy (Ditie’s brother). When Ditie was organizing the contents of her brother’s pantry to make dinner, then deciding she would have to go out to get supplies I got the strangest feeling. We do know that Ellie has a past with Tommy (Aphrodite’s brother) – so how does he play into all of this? Time will tell ☺.
As the story continues, many more suspects become evident. And then more deaths. Trying to keep the “gang” safe while he investigates the murder Detective Mason takes them to his mother’s home (she is a retired police officer). Mason even brings in a PI friend (Danny Devalle) to keep an eye on the gang. The sparks fly between Lurleen and Danny … oh la la!
The emotions that were so evident with Jason, trying to process that his mother was never coming back was so hard to read about, I was so sad for Jason. The writing of these emotions were far above what I have encountered in other cozy mysteries – and just one of many reasons why I loved this book.
There are many storylines that could be addressed in future books in this series …but the one that I am most interested in is learning more about Lurleen. Often her past was alluded to but never expounded upon. Can’t wait to read about her past because whatever happened, it has made one interesting lady! And I can’t wait to see how the relationship between Ditie and Mason plays out. And of course, will the kids get to stay with Ditie in the long run?
With such an auspicious beginning to a new series, I cannot wait to see what Sarah Osborne has in store for book 2 of the ‘A Ditie Brown Mystery’ series.
*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews