What do you think?
Rate this book
Inspector David Graham #5
The Case of the Missing Letter
Revenge. Scandal. Murder.
The valuable Satterthwaite Desk has found its way to the island of Jersey and is on display at the local museum. The desk is an old piece, rich with history, exquisite design, and whispers of a letter, the contents of which could destroy the lives of politicians and prominent people alike.
When a dead body is found at the museum, a turbulent family drama becomes a police inquiry, and together with his recently lauded investigative team, Graham must tackle the mystery, one that soon spills out of the museum and spreads further afield.
Can Inspector Graham and his team solve the crime? Without suspects or a motive? A mystery that bleeds murder across their shores, but which has its origins on beaches far, far away?
The Case of the Missing Letter is an intriguing standalone mystery in Alison Golden’s bestselling Inspector David Graham series. With plot twists and turns and characters you'll grow to love, it’s easy to see why Golden’s books have been described as “captivating,” “unputdownable,” and “shouldn't be started late at night.”
Buy your copy today. This mystery is “masterfully crafted.”
The valuable Satterthwaite Desk has found its way to the island of Jersey and is on display at the local museum. The desk is an old piece, rich with history, exquisite design, and whispers of a letter, the contents of which could destroy the lives of politicians and prominent people alike.
When a dead body is found at the museum, a turbulent family drama becomes a police inquiry, and together with his recently lauded investigative team, Graham must tackle the mystery, one that soon spills out of the museum and spreads further afield.
Can Inspector Graham and his team solve the crime? Without suspects or a motive? A mystery that bleeds murder across their shores, but which has its origins on beaches far, far away?
The Case of the Missing Letter is an intriguing standalone mystery in Alison Golden’s bestselling Inspector David Graham series. With plot twists and turns and characters you'll grow to love, it’s easy to see why Golden’s books have been described as “captivating,” “unputdownable,” and “shouldn't be started late at night.”
Buy your copy today. This mystery is “masterfully crafted.”
261 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 4, 2018
998 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Alison Golden
102 books332 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
February 7, 2018
Inspector David Graham is sitting in the dining room for breakfast in the White House Inn, Mrs. Taylor, the inns owner (and self-appointed match maker) introduces the Inspector to a new resident in the inn. A new hire for the local library.
Don is visiting his mother who is in the mid stages of Alzheimer's when his mother tells of a letter in a desk his step father's read continuously. When Don researches the desk, he discovers it was made by a furniture maker who was famous for hiding hidden spaces in some them. Don had to try and find this letter.
Charlotte Hughes is standing for parliament, the mysterious death of the security guard in the museum where her father's desk is on display alarms her as the discovery of a possible letter would be the end of her political career, and conformation of things she doesn't want known, will come out about her now deceased father.
Lillian Hart is Charlottes campaign manager, she has had a successful career at doing her job, and she will do almost anything to help her client win a parliament seat.
This is another fun story from Alison Golden, as usual, she has well developed characters and a strong plot line. I enjoy her stories because unlike so many of the other mysteries out there. The main character is not out searching for clues for no reason, it's his job. Alison tends to let the story unfold naturally and the inspector only gets involved when he has a clue to follow up on.
Don is visiting his mother who is in the mid stages of Alzheimer's when his mother tells of a letter in a desk his step father's read continuously. When Don researches the desk, he discovers it was made by a furniture maker who was famous for hiding hidden spaces in some them. Don had to try and find this letter.
Charlotte Hughes is standing for parliament, the mysterious death of the security guard in the museum where her father's desk is on display alarms her as the discovery of a possible letter would be the end of her political career, and conformation of things she doesn't want known, will come out about her now deceased father.
Lillian Hart is Charlottes campaign manager, she has had a successful career at doing her job, and she will do almost anything to help her client win a parliament seat.
This is another fun story from Alison Golden, as usual, she has well developed characters and a strong plot line. I enjoy her stories because unlike so many of the other mysteries out there. The main character is not out searching for clues for no reason, it's his job. Alison tends to let the story unfold naturally and the inspector only gets involved when he has a clue to follow up on.
April 13, 2023
Alison Golden is always worth reading.
August 30, 2021
Another lovely cozy mystery by Ms. Golden. There is more than one mystery for Detective Inspector Graham and his staff to solve. There are plenty of twists to this one.
February 10, 2018
This is another great Inspector Graham mystery. With plenty of plot twists and turns. This one involves a valuable Satterthwaite Desk which is on display at a museum in Jersey. There is a missing letter which could destroy the lives of some very prominent people and politicians . When a dead body turns up at the museum it is up to Inspector Graham and his team to solve the crime. I truly enjoy the Inspector Graham mysteries and can't wait for the next book in the series.
February 6, 2018
Another great addition to a terrific series!
Another book where once you start reading you just can't put it down until you reach the end...and then you want more! DI Graham is similar to Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot is once again faced with a crime that just doesn't make sense. Did the guard at the museum die of natural causes or was it something else. What has an antique desk have to do with the death? Could it be the one with the secret compartment? And what about the furniture restorer who was commissioned to repair the damage to the desk where the guard hit his head on the end. Was he killed because of the death? and then there is the missing letter that a step-son and his step-sister seem to be after. What is in the letter and where is it and would someone kill to find it? Add to all that a new girl comes to town as the new librarian and is introduced to the Inspector by his landlady who wants to see him with a nice young woman. But what is the mystery surrounding her? So many questions which get answered in good time as you read through waiting to get to the end to see all the pieces fit together. A surprise and lots of fun and I can't wait to see what becomes of the relationship with the Inspector and Laura the new librarian. I received an ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
Another book where once you start reading you just can't put it down until you reach the end...and then you want more! DI Graham is similar to Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot is once again faced with a crime that just doesn't make sense. Did the guard at the museum die of natural causes or was it something else. What has an antique desk have to do with the death? Could it be the one with the secret compartment? And what about the furniture restorer who was commissioned to repair the damage to the desk where the guard hit his head on the end. Was he killed because of the death? and then there is the missing letter that a step-son and his step-sister seem to be after. What is in the letter and where is it and would someone kill to find it? Add to all that a new girl comes to town as the new librarian and is introduced to the Inspector by his landlady who wants to see him with a nice young woman. But what is the mystery surrounding her? So many questions which get answered in good time as you read through waiting to get to the end to see all the pieces fit together. A surprise and lots of fun and I can't wait to see what becomes of the relationship with the Inspector and Laura the new librarian. I received an ARC from the author, but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
February 23, 2018
Shortly before her death, Susannah Hughes-English mentioned a letter that her late husband, Sir Thomas Hughes, would read from an unknown author and keep hidden in his office. Her son, Don English, heard what she said, but did not fully understand what she meant. Sir Thomas had been Don's step-father and treated both him and his mother terribly.
Looking to expose his step-father as the monster he was, Don sets out to find out more about the letter. The letter was presumed to be hidden in the noted Satterthwaite Desk. The desk is currently on display at the Jersey Heritage Museum and is heavily guarded. During a break-in at the museum one night, the Night Watchman dies and the desk is damaged. The situation gets even more complicated when the person repairing the desk is murdered.
Who broke into the museum? Was the night watchman's death accidental or murder? Can Don find the letter? What information is contained in the letter? Is there more than one criminal at work? Can Inspector Graham and his team unravel the mysteries?
This book actually has multiple mysteries going on simultaneously, which adds to the overall intrigue in the story. Alison Golden definitely knows how to develop a complex story and keep your interest from beginning to end.
Looking to expose his step-father as the monster he was, Don sets out to find out more about the letter. The letter was presumed to be hidden in the noted Satterthwaite Desk. The desk is currently on display at the Jersey Heritage Museum and is heavily guarded. During a break-in at the museum one night, the Night Watchman dies and the desk is damaged. The situation gets even more complicated when the person repairing the desk is murdered.
Who broke into the museum? Was the night watchman's death accidental or murder? Can Don find the letter? What information is contained in the letter? Is there more than one criminal at work? Can Inspector Graham and his team unravel the mysteries?
This book actually has multiple mysteries going on simultaneously, which adds to the overall intrigue in the story. Alison Golden definitely knows how to develop a complex story and keep your interest from beginning to end.
August 26, 2018
The Case of the Missing Letter - a review by Rosemary Kenny
When a security guard is found dead at the Jersey museum where a valuable antique desk is on display and the new young librarian at the nearby Govey branch reports being stalked by a mysterious stranger, the obvious choice to lead the investigation is our intrepid hero, Inspector David Graham.
Suspects abound - was it the widow of the former owner of the desk, now suffering from the onset of Alzheimer's Disease, yet still savvy enough to tell her son about his abusive step-father's habit of reading aloud, from a letter hidden in the desk at his office? Or could Don be overcome with the need to find the secret compartment containing said letter? Perhaps Don's step-sister Charlotte, an aspiring politician on the Westminster campaign trail is the guilty party? Or could it be Charlotte's campaign manager, Lilian Hart - determined her client will make it to Parliament no matter what it takes?
When another connected murder takes place, the stakes rise. Efforts to get a result by Inspector Graham and his Team are redoubled - they need to solve the mystery before the body count rises!
Can you guess who the killer is and the deadly secrets the Satterthwaite Desk has surrendered?
If not, buy yourself a copy of this excellent tale by Mistress of the Murder-Mystery, Alison Golden, (#5 in her Inspector David Graham series) - and discover the exciting truth for yourself!
When a security guard is found dead at the Jersey museum where a valuable antique desk is on display and the new young librarian at the nearby Govey branch reports being stalked by a mysterious stranger, the obvious choice to lead the investigation is our intrepid hero, Inspector David Graham.
Suspects abound - was it the widow of the former owner of the desk, now suffering from the onset of Alzheimer's Disease, yet still savvy enough to tell her son about his abusive step-father's habit of reading aloud, from a letter hidden in the desk at his office? Or could Don be overcome with the need to find the secret compartment containing said letter? Perhaps Don's step-sister Charlotte, an aspiring politician on the Westminster campaign trail is the guilty party? Or could it be Charlotte's campaign manager, Lilian Hart - determined her client will make it to Parliament no matter what it takes?
When another connected murder takes place, the stakes rise. Efforts to get a result by Inspector Graham and his Team are redoubled - they need to solve the mystery before the body count rises!
Can you guess who the killer is and the deadly secrets the Satterthwaite Desk has surrendered?
If not, buy yourself a copy of this excellent tale by Mistress of the Murder-Mystery, Alison Golden, (#5 in her Inspector David Graham series) - and discover the exciting truth for yourself!
March 18, 2018
Detective Inspector Graham and crew are at it again. This book has a couple of interesting story lines and some surprises that I don’t think you’ll see coming. I think no matter where you live, people are pretty much the same in the long run. For better or worse! This book has characters and situations that I think you will relate too, if not first hand, then in general. It may just keep you guessing as to who did what.
I received an ARC copy of this book, but that has no bearing on my opinion or my review.
May 14, 2018
This mystery kept me guessing until the very end!
February 12, 2018
DI David Graham and his team have just gotten a fantastic write-up in the local paper, about their success in solving local crimes and bringing down the local crime rate. Since no good deed goes unpunished, they are of course in for some excitement.
Someone is, or so Mrs. Hollingsworth claims, hanging around the Gorey public library on the nights when the new librarian, Laura Beecham, is working late.
Someone breaks into the local museum, and night watchman Nobby Norris dies, apparently of a heart attack, although he also hit his head on the extremely valuable Satterthwaite desk displayed in the museum.
Both Charlotte Hughes, daughter of the former owner of the desk, now a candidate for Parliament, and Don English, her stepbrother, are on in Gorey, apparently looking for something that might have been hidden in the desk.
What's going on? What has suddenly made this particular antique desk so interesting to so many people?
Graham and his crew aren't 100% sure they're dealing with a serious crime rather than a random break-in, until there's another death--this time the man who was repairing the damage to the Satterthwaite desk.
But the desk itself still isn't stolen.
It's a puzzle, and one that they have precious few leads for.
This is a great visit with wonderful characters, and also an intriguing mystery. All in all, a good read.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
Someone is, or so Mrs. Hollingsworth claims, hanging around the Gorey public library on the nights when the new librarian, Laura Beecham, is working late.
Someone breaks into the local museum, and night watchman Nobby Norris dies, apparently of a heart attack, although he also hit his head on the extremely valuable Satterthwaite desk displayed in the museum.
Both Charlotte Hughes, daughter of the former owner of the desk, now a candidate for Parliament, and Don English, her stepbrother, are on in Gorey, apparently looking for something that might have been hidden in the desk.
What's going on? What has suddenly made this particular antique desk so interesting to so many people?
Graham and his crew aren't 100% sure they're dealing with a serious crime rather than a random break-in, until there's another death--this time the man who was repairing the damage to the Satterthwaite desk.
But the desk itself still isn't stolen.
It's a puzzle, and one that they have precious few leads for.
This is a great visit with wonderful characters, and also an intriguing mystery. All in all, a good read.
Recommended.
I received a free electronic galley of this book from the publisher, and am reviewing it voluntarily.
February 12, 2018
The only thing I disliked about The Case of the Missing Letter is that it had to come to an end. I'm sad I have to wait for more mystery-solving in Jersey. :( The Inspector Graham Mysteries are a great series if you like books along the lines of Inspector Poirot.
Inspector Graham is a tea-loving, former London police detective, now heading the police force on the small island of Jersey (a UK-held island a few miles from the coast of France), in its sleepy capitol of Gorey.
In this, the fifth book in the series, Graham and his team are faced with a bit of a strange case: a dead museum security guard and a break-in at that same museum. Nothing appears to have been stolen, and the guard appears to have died from natural causes. The only casualty seems to be a desk created by a renowned artist, (famous for occasionally adding secret compartments in his creations, without revealing them to the recipient) and while the desk is in repairs, the case balloons to include murder, politics, and rumors of an incriminating letter involving a prominent mainland family.
The series just keeps getting better and better! :) :) :)
Inspector Graham is a tea-loving, former London police detective, now heading the police force on the small island of Jersey (a UK-held island a few miles from the coast of France), in its sleepy capitol of Gorey.
In this, the fifth book in the series, Graham and his team are faced with a bit of a strange case: a dead museum security guard and a break-in at that same museum. Nothing appears to have been stolen, and the guard appears to have died from natural causes. The only casualty seems to be a desk created by a renowned artist, (famous for occasionally adding secret compartments in his creations, without revealing them to the recipient) and while the desk is in repairs, the case balloons to include murder, politics, and rumors of an incriminating letter involving a prominent mainland family.
The series just keeps getting better and better! :) :) :)
February 13, 2018
The Case Of The Missing Letter – Book 5
Mystery, murder, mayhem, humor, action-packed – what more could I ask for? This story delivers each component in spades – even more so than the previous stories in the series. There is enough doubt regarding each of the players that you aren’t sure who is innocent and who is guilty. And with multiple mysteries (not just the opening death), there is plenty to attempt to untangle.
I’ve been enjoying the Epilogue chapter with the last couple of books – where the author wraps up after-story events for each of the “cast” and events. Many of them get a big grin from me, but this story’s Epilogue treats had me snickering and laughing out loud at many of them. And thank goodness I didn’t have any food or drink in my mouth when I got to the last morsel – either it would have sprayed over the whole room, or it would have “gone down the wrong pipe” and I’d no longer be alive to enjoy more of this author’s stories.
Reading the previous books in this series is not necessary to enjoy this one, but they will provide additional depth to various comments and situations.
Mystery, murder, mayhem, humor, action-packed – what more could I ask for? This story delivers each component in spades – even more so than the previous stories in the series. There is enough doubt regarding each of the players that you aren’t sure who is innocent and who is guilty. And with multiple mysteries (not just the opening death), there is plenty to attempt to untangle.
I’ve been enjoying the Epilogue chapter with the last couple of books – where the author wraps up after-story events for each of the “cast” and events. Many of them get a big grin from me, but this story’s Epilogue treats had me snickering and laughing out loud at many of them. And thank goodness I didn’t have any food or drink in my mouth when I got to the last morsel – either it would have sprayed over the whole room, or it would have “gone down the wrong pipe” and I’d no longer be alive to enjoy more of this author’s stories.
Reading the previous books in this series is not necessary to enjoy this one, but they will provide additional depth to various comments and situations.
February 19, 2018
Each story in this series is better than the last and each one is masterfully told. There are some books that you enjoy and then there are books by a few authors that are so well written that you savor them like that last bite of sweets before you go on a diet. The books by Alison Golden (the Inspector Graham series and Reverend Annabelle series specifically) are so tasty you want to take your time reading them.
In this book, as with the other Inspector Graham mysteries, there was a sub-plot involving the Inspectors love life. If you've followed the series this far you know that the Inspector has experienced a loss and the subsequent demise of his marriage. It is exciting to see how Alison has developed his character as well as the others in the Gorey constabulary. I am on the advance reader list for Alison Golden but the books are so good I purchase them. With so many free books out there this is the best compliment I feel I can give to an author.
In this book, as with the other Inspector Graham mysteries, there was a sub-plot involving the Inspectors love life. If you've followed the series this far you know that the Inspector has experienced a loss and the subsequent demise of his marriage. It is exciting to see how Alison has developed his character as well as the others in the Gorey constabulary. I am on the advance reader list for Alison Golden but the books are so good I purchase them. With so many free books out there this is the best compliment I feel I can give to an author.
February 24, 2018
The latest in the DI Graham series is a hit! I received an ARC of the book to review and I could not put it down!! I stayed up late to finish reading it and was very satisfied with the resolution to the murder mystery as well as the progression of the characters. An old desk in the historic museum in Jersey is the key to a 50-year old mystery. Don English travels to Jersey to check and see what secrets the old desk holds. Others in his extended family travel to Jersey too. The desk figures into two murders and DI Graham and his team are kept very, very busy trying to figure out why this desk in the center of so much mystery and violence. In the end, the police solve the mystery, save a damsel in distress, and arrest the perpetrators of the crimes on the island!! I just loved this book and you will too. If you have not read prior books in this series, I encourage you to try them out. They are delightful!!
February 20, 2018
Inspector David Graham finds a robbery and an unexpected death at a local museum curious. A priceless desk seems to be the reason for the criminal activity. Why? The Inspector uses his keen mind and his skills to find the perpetrator. I like how Alison Golden has developed the Inspector's character. He has learned from his past, has grown and matured. This story is smartly written and has interesting characters and smart dialogue. The plot is suspenseful and has unexpected twists that took me by surprise. The low key setting is the perfect background to highlight The Case of the Missing Letter. I enjoyed this thoughtful mystery.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
I received a copy of this book which I voluntarily read and reviewed. My comments are my honest opinion.
April 5, 2018
This series has been really entertaining. It should be read in order for maximum enjoyment as the characters evolve and mature under the guidance of their boss Chief Inspector David Graham. Even the Inspector gradually changes for the better. The community these police officers serve are full of characters on their own. And they are a Community, taking care of each other in the small ways that neighbors do. The mysteries are solved with teamwork and the great mind that is David Graham.
Give the series a try. They are a good afternoon read with well developed characters that you end up feeling you know well and like. Crime doesn't go unpunished in this little seaside tourist town. You will enjoy it as much as I do, I'm sure. And the first book is free!
Give the series a try. They are a good afternoon read with well developed characters that you end up feeling you know well and like. Crime doesn't go unpunished in this little seaside tourist town. You will enjoy it as much as I do, I'm sure. And the first book is free!
April 15, 2018
The best Inspector Graham mystery to date. More than one plot, characters are interesting and true to life. There is mystery, suspense, action, murder, revenge, even a little romance. A suspicious person is lurking around the library. Why? Is he the one who is stalking the librarian? Is there really a secret compartment in an old desk? And what is this about a missing letter? Why is the letter so important? Come along with Inspector Graham and his crew as they try to sort things out. Can you figure it out before they do? I recommend this book.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
I voluntarily received a copy of this book and I'm voluntarily posting a review. My opinion is entirely my own.
November 17, 2023
I really enjoyed this book. This series has the laid-back feel of a small island and very easily transports you there. Don't get me wrong Inspector Graham and his team are anything but a bubbling police force and the cases are anything but simple. It kind of reminds me of an English version of the tv series death in paradise or maybe it's just because the police are riding around the island on bikes. The book has a lot going on, with a number of twists to keep you hooked until the very end. I like the characters, who make a good team and work well together, even if they can't make a good cup of tea. the story is told by multiple characters giving you an insight into what is going on, this works well and keeps the story flowing nicely. I like the round up at the end of the book, it wraps the story up nicely and explains what happened to the characters after the case was solved. A light hearted police procedural that is entertaining and fun. I look forward to starting the next case with Inspector Graham and the team.
Having improved the crime stats on the small island of Jersey the last thing inspector Graham wants is to be called out to a murder scene. The local museum has been broken into and the security guard is found dead. Even if it does turn out to be a heart attack it happened during a break in and Inspector Graham and his team have a killer to find. Then the man hired by the owners of the desk that was damaged during the break in attacked and everything points to someone looking for something. Can Inspector Graham find what is so valuable that someone is willing to kill over it?
I like the narrator. He has a pleasant sounding voice that helps you too travel to the small island of Jersey and become involved in the murder investigation along side the characters.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntary left this review.
Having improved the crime stats on the small island of Jersey the last thing inspector Graham wants is to be called out to a murder scene. The local museum has been broken into and the security guard is found dead. Even if it does turn out to be a heart attack it happened during a break in and Inspector Graham and his team have a killer to find. Then the man hired by the owners of the desk that was damaged during the break in attacked and everything points to someone looking for something. Can Inspector Graham find what is so valuable that someone is willing to kill over it?
I like the narrator. He has a pleasant sounding voice that helps you too travel to the small island of Jersey and become involved in the murder investigation along side the characters.
I was given this free review copy audio book at my request and have voluntary left this review.
November 18, 2022
Though the chief investigator is a policeman, these are really cosy mysteries. He's head of a small police force in the town of Gorey on the island of Jersey. His subordinates all like him and he encourages them in their careers. He's well-liked also in the community at large. He does have a bit of a 'tea fetish' but otherwise is a pretty normal guy, though with some sadness in his past. But he doesn't wallow in it.
Actually, in this book, his subordinates are doing as much as he in the investigation. It starts with a night guard at a museum found dead beside an extremely valuable desk which was slightly damaged when he fell. Is it murder? The desk seems significant as there are a number of people on the island who have an interest in it. Meanwhile, some stranger is stalking the new librarian -- but the only reports come from an elderly lady who has a history of reporting things that just aren't really a problem so she's not taken very seriously.
Everything moves along at a good pace. Really, it's a very pleasant read and everything wraps up nicely and personal relationships -- minor plots only -- move forward.
Actually, in this book, his subordinates are doing as much as he in the investigation. It starts with a night guard at a museum found dead beside an extremely valuable desk which was slightly damaged when he fell. Is it murder? The desk seems significant as there are a number of people on the island who have an interest in it. Meanwhile, some stranger is stalking the new librarian -- but the only reports come from an elderly lady who has a history of reporting things that just aren't really a problem so she's not taken very seriously.
Everything moves along at a good pace. Really, it's a very pleasant read and everything wraps up nicely and personal relationships -- minor plots only -- move forward.
February 4, 2025
Narrated by: Matt Jamie
The Case of the Missing Letter is a delightful blend of intrigue, humor, and heart, perfectly tailored for fans of cozy mysteries. Alison Gordon and Grace Dagnall masterfully weave multiple threads of suspense into a story that kept me second-guessing while remaining thoroughly entertained.
The setting on the small island of Jersey adds charm to the narrative, and DI David Graham shines as a meticulous and tea-loving detective with an endearing human side. I particularly enjoyed the evolving romance between Graham and Laura—it added a sweet touch amidst the darker themes of revenge and scandal.
The humor sprinkled throughout, especially moments like little Billy fending off danger with poetry books, provided a much-needed balance to the tension. The quirky, almost serendipitous timing of the cops showing up "just in time" and riding, of all things, a bicycle — added a layer of charm rather than predictability, keeping the tone lighthearted without undermining the seriousness of the crimes.
What stood out most was the layered complexity of the mysteries. With the stakes tied to politics, family secrets, and hidden compartments in antique furniture, it was impossible not to stay invested. The twists were clever, and even the smaller details, like the poetic justice of the villain’s capture, were incredibly satisfying.
This book nails the formula for a cozy mystery: a lovable cast, laugh-out-loud moments, and enough suspense to keep you guessing until the end. Fans of Poirot-style mysteries and stories with heart will find themselves enchanted by this one.
The Case of the Missing Letter is a delightful blend of intrigue, humor, and heart, perfectly tailored for fans of cozy mysteries. Alison Gordon and Grace Dagnall masterfully weave multiple threads of suspense into a story that kept me second-guessing while remaining thoroughly entertained.
The setting on the small island of Jersey adds charm to the narrative, and DI David Graham shines as a meticulous and tea-loving detective with an endearing human side. I particularly enjoyed the evolving romance between Graham and Laura—it added a sweet touch amidst the darker themes of revenge and scandal.
The humor sprinkled throughout, especially moments like little Billy fending off danger with poetry books, provided a much-needed balance to the tension. The quirky, almost serendipitous timing of the cops showing up "just in time" and riding, of all things, a bicycle — added a layer of charm rather than predictability, keeping the tone lighthearted without undermining the seriousness of the crimes.
What stood out most was the layered complexity of the mysteries. With the stakes tied to politics, family secrets, and hidden compartments in antique furniture, it was impossible not to stay invested. The twists were clever, and even the smaller details, like the poetic justice of the villain’s capture, were incredibly satisfying.
This book nails the formula for a cozy mystery: a lovable cast, laugh-out-loud moments, and enough suspense to keep you guessing until the end. Fans of Poirot-style mysteries and stories with heart will find themselves enchanted by this one.
August 16, 2018
Great Series!
The David Graham series is exceptional. This is now one of my favorite series. I am hoping there will be a Book 6 soon.
Far different than books 1-4, The Case of the Missing Letter was a slow starter for me. My Kindle showed I was at 67% of the way through before I felt the book really got interesting. The mystery around the letter, the characters associated with the letter, that part took a while getting in to, for me. Anything associated with D.I. Graham, or our regulars, was wonderful. I love them all. But the story did get intriguing. And of course, I love the updates at the end. I wish every book would do that, except I guess it would not make this series as unique if everyone did it. I applaud Alison Golden for this added feature.
As always, I can not wait for the next installment!
The David Graham series is exceptional. This is now one of my favorite series. I am hoping there will be a Book 6 soon.
Far different than books 1-4, The Case of the Missing Letter was a slow starter for me. My Kindle showed I was at 67% of the way through before I felt the book really got interesting. The mystery around the letter, the characters associated with the letter, that part took a while getting in to, for me. Anything associated with D.I. Graham, or our regulars, was wonderful. I love them all. But the story did get intriguing. And of course, I love the updates at the end. I wish every book would do that, except I guess it would not make this series as unique if everyone did it. I applaud Alison Golden for this added feature.
As always, I can not wait for the next installment!
April 13, 2020
A murder-mystery & police procedural with cozy-ish aspirations
I chose this police procedural as a break from darker, noir crime fiction. I’m glad I read this Inspector Graham Mystery, because I enjoyed the likable police characters and the setting of the Channel Islands and Jersey.
This quick, easy-read has a cleverly plotted storyline, plus several subplots. The backbone of this book is DI Graham & the Jersey police, who are investigating a museum break-in that left a guard dead of a heart attack and a valuable war medal missing. Soon, another Jersey inhabitant dies after suffering a blow to the head, and a gunman shoots at a newly hired librarian.
Although I chose two culprits early on, and I guessed the burglar, I kept turning pages until the end. There is a last minute reveal about a character, which was withheld for the flimsiest of reasons.
I chose this police procedural as a break from darker, noir crime fiction. I’m glad I read this Inspector Graham Mystery, because I enjoyed the likable police characters and the setting of the Channel Islands and Jersey.
This quick, easy-read has a cleverly plotted storyline, plus several subplots. The backbone of this book is DI Graham & the Jersey police, who are investigating a museum break-in that left a guard dead of a heart attack and a valuable war medal missing. Soon, another Jersey inhabitant dies after suffering a blow to the head, and a gunman shoots at a newly hired librarian.
Although I chose two culprits early on, and I guessed the burglar, I kept turning pages until the end. There is a last minute reveal about a character, which was withheld for the flimsiest of reasons.
June 3, 2022
This is the 5th book in the Inspector David Graham mystery series & the third that I’m reviewing. I didn't read books 3 or 4, but that didn’t take away from reading this installment.
This is the best of the ones I've read:
* It’s still a short book, but it's longer than the first 2 combined at 227 pages
* There are 2 dead bodies instead of just 1! Well, technically 3 but one died in a hospice without cause for police investigation
* Inspector Graham meets a lady ooh-la-la (nothing happens tho)
* It has an epilogue with brief summaries as to what happens to each character after the conclusion of the story
People, it’s a cozy mystery/police procedural. Obviously it’s corny at times, that’s the point. But it’s a fun, easy read with dead bodies. What more could we ask for?
This is the best of the ones I've read:
* It’s still a short book, but it's longer than the first 2 combined at 227 pages
* There are 2 dead bodies instead of just 1! Well, technically 3 but one died in a hospice without cause for police investigation
* Inspector Graham meets a lady ooh-la-la (nothing happens tho)
* It has an epilogue with brief summaries as to what happens to each character after the conclusion of the story
People, it’s a cozy mystery/police procedural. Obviously it’s corny at times, that’s the point. But it’s a fun, easy read with dead bodies. What more could we ask for?
February 10, 2018
Another marvelous read from one of my favorite series. Inspector Graham is looking for clues surrounding a missing letter in a museum donation. A handcrafted desk. As usual Graham is accompanied by Harding, Roach and Barnwell as he searches for the letter that may or may not be crucial to a prominent family. Is it in the donated desk? Come with D.I. Graham and find out!
I received this pre-release from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. I adore this series: short, well written mystery books that teach you something while you get lost in the pages. I have been a fan through the first 4, and this one has a real twist I never saw coming. 5/5
I received this pre-release from the author and voluntarily reviewed it. I adore this series: short, well written mystery books that teach you something while you get lost in the pages. I have been a fan through the first 4, and this one has a real twist I never saw coming. 5/5
April 27, 2021
Foreign political intrigue invades the Jersey police force.
When Don English’s demented mother died in the nursing home his most fervent wish was to access his stepfather’s fantastic desk lodged in a museum in Jersey to find a letter he felt would expose the evil perpetrated on him and his mother by his stepfather. The existence of the desk in Jersey led to a museum in Jersey, his stepfather’s daughtr’s political career, the Jersey police force headed by DI David Graham, a local cabinet maker, the new librarian, and exemplary work by members of the police force and their professional connections. This was a great story.
When Don English’s demented mother died in the nursing home his most fervent wish was to access his stepfather’s fantastic desk lodged in a museum in Jersey to find a letter he felt would expose the evil perpetrated on him and his mother by his stepfather. The existence of the desk in Jersey led to a museum in Jersey, his stepfather’s daughtr’s political career, the Jersey police force headed by DI David Graham, a local cabinet maker, the new librarian, and exemplary work by members of the police force and their professional connections. This was a great story.
July 31, 2022
4.0 A valuable Satterhwaite desk has found its way to the island of Jersey and is on display at the local museum. The desk is a masterpiece with exquisite design and very rare. The story goes that there is a secret drawer in the desk but the family that owned it never did find the compartment and its also rumored that a very special letter is inside. When the museum is broken into and the old guard is knocked out the desk is damaged. The desk is sent for repair to a specialist on the island but he too has been found murdered. It is Inspector Graham 's job to find out what is happening here and see if he can find out who has committed these crimes.
February 9, 2018
This is the latest case in the Inspector David Graham series of cozy mysteries and, in my opinion, is the best yet! Full of lively characters, several murders, a professional hitman, and more twists and turns than an English country lane, this story will keep you hooked from beginning to end. Whether you've read previous books in the series or not, I'd highly recommend this one to mystery lovers of all ages, and am definitely looking forward to the next!
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
NB I received a complimentary copy of this book, but I always give an HONEST review based wholly on my own opinions
February 10, 2018
The Case of the Missing Letter is full of twists and turns that will grab your attention and keep you guessing until the end. There is so much going on in the pages of this book that there is never a dull moment. I loved the fact there were several mysteries in the story. I loved the Epilogue. It explained what happened with all the characters in the story in short, concise descriptions.
This is my favorite Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
This is my favorite Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery. I can't wait to read the next book in the series.
February 16, 2018
This is a genuinely enjoyable page-turner set in a glorious location, the island of Jersey, and populated by believable, very well drawn characters.
I really like Inspector David Graham, he is the archetypal mystery novel policeman, resourceful, polite and persistent, although I found it a bit difficult to comprehend that someone in as technical a job as modern policing would need assistance to send a text message!
The writing is great, with a touch of retro style, making it read rather like a modernised Agatha Christie. The plot is satisfying with plenty of potential suspects and a few 'red herrings' thrown in for good measure. It was nice to have a romantic interest for Graham in this book, it gave a extra bit of depth to the story.
I received an ARC from the author, but I have voluntarily written this honest review based on my own opinions.
I really like Inspector David Graham, he is the archetypal mystery novel policeman, resourceful, polite and persistent, although I found it a bit difficult to comprehend that someone in as technical a job as modern policing would need assistance to send a text message!
The writing is great, with a touch of retro style, making it read rather like a modernised Agatha Christie. The plot is satisfying with plenty of potential suspects and a few 'red herrings' thrown in for good measure. It was nice to have a romantic interest for Graham in this book, it gave a extra bit of depth to the story.
I received an ARC from the author, but I have voluntarily written this honest review based on my own opinions.
March 13, 2018
The Case of the Missing Letter is the fifth book in the Inspector David Graham Cozy Mystery series by Alison Golden.
This is one of my favorite series. I enjoy the characters and the location. The mysteries are interesting with twists to keep you guessing.
This book could be read as a stand-alone book, but reading the whole series lets you see how the relationships have developed.
There is an Epilogue at the end of the book that gives updates on the characters. It’s fun to see what happens to everyone
This is one of my favorite series. I enjoy the characters and the location. The mysteries are interesting with twists to keep you guessing.
This book could be read as a stand-alone book, but reading the whole series lets you see how the relationships have developed.
There is an Epilogue at the end of the book that gives updates on the characters. It’s fun to see what happens to everyone
Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews