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Peridale Cafe #13
Ice Cream and Incidents
Julia and her family head to the seaside town of Blackpool for a long weekend under the sun, but the trip is quickly disrupted when the B&B owner's son is found murdered!
Can be read as a standalone but will be enjoyed more as part of the series. A light, cozy mystery read with a cat loving and cafe-owning amateur female sleuth, in a small village setting with quirky characters. Written in British English. No cliffhanger, swearing, gore or graphic scenes!
Can be read as a standalone but will be enjoyed more as part of the series. A light, cozy mystery read with a cat loving and cafe-owning amateur female sleuth, in a small village setting with quirky characters. Written in British English. No cliffhanger, swearing, gore or graphic scenes!
255 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 19, 2018
1254 people are currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Agatha Frost
75 books595 followersAGATHA FROST, an Amazon bestselling author, has written over thirty mystery novels. She lives in the North West English county of Lancashire with her two cuddly beagles and one cat.
When Agatha isn’t writing, she loves reading head-scratching mysteries and thrillers, coffee, baking, and exploring her local countryside on long dog walks.
From a young age, Agatha devoured the great British murder mystery books and television shows, ample inspiration for her Peridale Café and Claire’s Candles series. She loves writing about family women who juggle their ordinary village lives with the challenges of amateur sleuthing.
Add in some good food, close friends and family, cute pets, and plenty of twists and turns, and you have a classic Agatha Frost mystery.
Sign up to the newsletter at www.agathafrost.com
When Agatha isn’t writing, she loves reading head-scratching mysteries and thrillers, coffee, baking, and exploring her local countryside on long dog walks.
From a young age, Agatha devoured the great British murder mystery books and television shows, ample inspiration for her Peridale Café and Claire’s Candles series. She loves writing about family women who juggle their ordinary village lives with the challenges of amateur sleuthing.
Add in some good food, close friends and family, cute pets, and plenty of twists and turns, and you have a classic Agatha Frost mystery.
Sign up to the newsletter at www.agathafrost.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
May 8, 2023
I can’t get enough of this series! Always puts a smile on my face. 💛
June 27, 2018
This series is just a joy to read. Julia and her family are always stumbling upon a mystery and even though she vows to not investigate, she just can't help herself. I loved the Sparkle B&B and the flamboyant characters that work there. I wish I could vacation there myself! Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie travel to Blackpool for a little getaway and while something happens to spark off the whodunnit, we also have some more development with Julia's family. Jessie's adoption is supposed to come through any day and we learn more about some of her and Alfie's background. I truly feel like these people in this series are my family and have really become invested in their relationships and happiness. I never want these books to end.
July 31, 2018
3 stelle e mezza
Cambio di locazione, anche perché Peridale iniziava ad avere un tasso di omicidi più alto della peggiore città al mondo, e, per una volta, la vittima è ferita e non uccisa. Sono un po' insoddisfatta della storia e soprattutto perché questo è uno di quei casi in cui proprio non vorresti che il colpevole fosse chi poi risulta tale.
Cambio di locazione, anche perché Peridale iniziava ad avere un tasso di omicidi più alto della peggiore città al mondo, e, per una volta, la vittima è ferita e non uccisa. Sono un po' insoddisfatta della storia e soprattutto perché questo è uno di quei casi in cui proprio non vorresti che il colpevole fosse chi poi risulta tale.
September 11, 2021
This was a good book. Julia goes on holiday with her fiancé and two other people. They are staying at a hotel run by drag queens. One of the queens was hurt badly. Of course Julia spends the holiday trying to figure out who was behind it. She does and all is well for now.
June 13, 2018
Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie go on vacation, or it starts out as a vacation. Staying at a large B&B owned by a drag queen is not what they were expecting but what fun watching the queens perform. An incident happens during one of the queens performance, accidents happen right? But then police get involved and feelings get hurt. Julia can’t keep her nose out of it, of course!! But can she figure out who causes this incident before the wrong person gets charged and loses everything??
In this book, you’ll get to see Jessie and Alfie revisit the past, Julia make new friends and see a new town by the sea! Another great book by Agatha Frost, vacation fun, mystery and memories!!
In this book, you’ll get to see Jessie and Alfie revisit the past, Julia make new friends and see a new town by the sea! Another great book by Agatha Frost, vacation fun, mystery and memories!!
January 8, 2021
Pandemic freebie from the author. The giveaway does not affect my opinion of the novel. All views expressed are my own.
When Julia's grandmother Dot is given a holiday as a raffle prize from the Peridale annual fête, she's thrilled but at the last minute, declines to go. She claims to have a cold but Julia suspects Dot is busy reading Julia's fiancé, Barker's crime novel. She wonders what Dot will think when she recognizes the nosy old lady character who sticks her nose into everyone's business in the village? Julia then invites her foster daughter Jessie's brother Alfie to come along to Blackpool with them. Everyone is eager for the amusement park and all the fun things Blackpool has to offer. None are prepared when they arrive at the hotel, named Sparkles by the Sea. Sparkles by the Sea is a drag queen haven! It's run by a drag queen, features a drag show every night and unfortunately becomes the scene of a crime when star performer Simone Phoenix is hit in the head by a piece of lighting equipment. Julia has come to know and like Russell, the hotel owner. He puts his heart and soul (and money) into the hotel and Julia feels awful that something like this has happened. The police suspect Russell but Julia feels that he is innocent. She's determined to get to the bottom of the mystery! Meanwhile, Julia is also fretting about Jessie's upcoming birthday. Jessie will turn 18 and Julia and Barker are still waiting for formal adoption papers to come through. When Jessie turns 18 in a few days time, she'll no longer be eligible for official adoption. Julia has come to think of Jessie has her daughter and wants to give Jessie the loving family she missed out on. Will the papers come through in time? Will Simone survive? Will Julia ever solve the mystery?
This is a fun, enjoyable story. At first, like Julia, I wasn't sure about the whole drag theme. That's just not my thing. (A library hotel, on the other hand...) As the story progressed and Julia's views shifted, mine did too. I came to know and like almost all the "girls" and didn't want any of them to have hurt Simone. The story was tinged with sadness but still the lightest one of the series of those I have read so far. It works as a standalone or to skip around in the series as I have done. I missed Julia fostering Jessie and her reunion with her brother. I think I missed Julia's formal engagement to Barker too. Because they travel out of Peridale, I didn't have to remember the characters aside from Julia, Barker and Jessie.
I really enjoyed the Blackpool Setting. I need pictures and I need recipes! I went off to Google to look up Blackpool and see what Julia and friends experienced.
Julia is sweet, kind and gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She's compassionate and motherly towards the waifs and strays she comes across. Barker seems to be a different person now he's quit the police force to write full time. He has more of a sense of humor and doesn't mind too much when Julia decides to investigate. He loves Jessie like a daughter and is eager and proud to be her dad. Jessie is still a teen and angsty but her overall personality is sunny now Julia is her mum. Her brother, Alfie, is new to me. He's more quiet and less bubbly than Jessie probably because he was 10 years old when their parents died and has memories Jessie doesn't. It's fortunate she found him so he can share his childhood memories with her.
In Peridale we have Dot, Julia's eccentric grandmother. Dot is crazy! She's nosy, annoying, rude and pushy. However, I can't help but like her. She's the comic relief character. Julia's dad makes an appearance for the first time that I've read, along with his young wife Katie. Katie is super annoying. She's perky and rich. Her parents spoiled her and Julia's father spoils her. She's into looking tan ("glowing") and started her own fake tan business which isn't going so well. Also in the eccentric old lady category is Evelyn, the village psychic. Everyone thinks she's a phony but I think she is a bit psychic because she seems to know something no one else does. It's just not precise what she sees or feels.
The Blackpool characters are limited to the hotel. Russell Braithwaite, aka Lulu Suede, is the owner of Sparkles. He is a super nice guy, very friendly, outgoing and eager to please. He's kind of like a puppy. He's going through some tough times and behind closed doors isn't always pleasant but I really like him. He's put his heart and soul into making Sparkles a success. I can really feel that love through the words on the page. I love ice cream brunch! Can I come? Can Julia bake cake to make sundaes? Russ sounds fun to hang out with but all that energy would make me exhausted. No wonder Barker has to take lots of naps! Honey is the artsy young queen. I think he's young, like Jessie, and has had a rough time lately. That doesn't excuse his behavior though. Honey is rude and mean. Maybe he thinks it makes him edgy and cool? I think he wants to emulate Simone but do his own thing at the same time. He hasn't quite figured out what he wants. Feather Duster (Arthur), the "old, old, old, old, old veteran queen" is the wise, father figure of the group. He's been a drag performer for so long he's seen it all. He has a sense of humor but doesn't often show it. I think he tries to take on everyone else's problems and it's weighing heavily on him. Arthur is perceptive enough to see Julia is investigating the crime and they become quite friendly. I grew rather attached to him. Simone Phoenix, celebrity illusionist (impersonator) is the star attraction. Simon is a truly awful person. All these "girls" are divas but Simone/Simon is the worst. Demanding, arrogant, rude and pushy, Simon has no sense of community. He's a narcissist. I am not surprised someone tried to kill him. I don't blame them. Finally, Tuna Turner, a true impersonator who looks like a woman. Marvin, Tuna's real name, is not the most pleasant person to be around. His issue is lame and doesn't really fit in with the story. He's snippy and rude to Julia all the time and yes she's snooping but he's just not nice. He also doesn't take advice very well. Which one hurt Simone? I don't think any of them! I hope it was faulty wiring or someone from the lighting company for some homophobic reason. At the very least, I want it to be Honey.
This is the lightest and most fun of the books I've read in this series so far. I recommend it to fans of British cozies.
When Julia's grandmother Dot is given a holiday as a raffle prize from the Peridale annual fête, she's thrilled but at the last minute, declines to go. She claims to have a cold but Julia suspects Dot is busy reading Julia's fiancé, Barker's crime novel. She wonders what Dot will think when she recognizes the nosy old lady character who sticks her nose into everyone's business in the village? Julia then invites her foster daughter Jessie's brother Alfie to come along to Blackpool with them. Everyone is eager for the amusement park and all the fun things Blackpool has to offer. None are prepared when they arrive at the hotel, named Sparkles by the Sea. Sparkles by the Sea is a drag queen haven! It's run by a drag queen, features a drag show every night and unfortunately becomes the scene of a crime when star performer Simone Phoenix is hit in the head by a piece of lighting equipment. Julia has come to know and like Russell, the hotel owner. He puts his heart and soul (and money) into the hotel and Julia feels awful that something like this has happened. The police suspect Russell but Julia feels that he is innocent. She's determined to get to the bottom of the mystery! Meanwhile, Julia is also fretting about Jessie's upcoming birthday. Jessie will turn 18 and Julia and Barker are still waiting for formal adoption papers to come through. When Jessie turns 18 in a few days time, she'll no longer be eligible for official adoption. Julia has come to think of Jessie has her daughter and wants to give Jessie the loving family she missed out on. Will the papers come through in time? Will Simone survive? Will Julia ever solve the mystery?
This is a fun, enjoyable story. At first, like Julia, I wasn't sure about the whole drag theme. That's just not my thing. (A library hotel, on the other hand...) As the story progressed and Julia's views shifted, mine did too. I came to know and like almost all the "girls" and didn't want any of them to have hurt Simone. The story was tinged with sadness but still the lightest one of the series of those I have read so far. It works as a standalone or to skip around in the series as I have done. I missed Julia fostering Jessie and her reunion with her brother. I think I missed Julia's formal engagement to Barker too. Because they travel out of Peridale, I didn't have to remember the characters aside from Julia, Barker and Jessie.
I really enjoyed the Blackpool Setting. I need pictures and I need recipes! I went off to Google to look up Blackpool and see what Julia and friends experienced.
Julia is sweet, kind and gives everyone the benefit of the doubt. She's compassionate and motherly towards the waifs and strays she comes across. Barker seems to be a different person now he's quit the police force to write full time. He has more of a sense of humor and doesn't mind too much when Julia decides to investigate. He loves Jessie like a daughter and is eager and proud to be her dad. Jessie is still a teen and angsty but her overall personality is sunny now Julia is her mum. Her brother, Alfie, is new to me. He's more quiet and less bubbly than Jessie probably because he was 10 years old when their parents died and has memories Jessie doesn't. It's fortunate she found him so he can share his childhood memories with her.
In Peridale we have Dot, Julia's eccentric grandmother. Dot is crazy! She's nosy, annoying, rude and pushy. However, I can't help but like her. She's the comic relief character. Julia's dad makes an appearance for the first time that I've read, along with his young wife Katie. Katie is super annoying. She's perky and rich. Her parents spoiled her and Julia's father spoils her. She's into looking tan ("glowing") and started her own fake tan business which isn't going so well. Also in the eccentric old lady category is Evelyn, the village psychic. Everyone thinks she's a phony but I think she is a bit psychic because she seems to know something no one else does. It's just not precise what she sees or feels.
The Blackpool characters are limited to the hotel. Russell Braithwaite, aka Lulu Suede, is the owner of Sparkles. He is a super nice guy, very friendly, outgoing and eager to please. He's kind of like a puppy. He's going through some tough times and behind closed doors isn't always pleasant but I really like him. He's put his heart and soul into making Sparkles a success. I can really feel that love through the words on the page. I love ice cream brunch! Can I come? Can Julia bake cake to make sundaes? Russ sounds fun to hang out with but all that energy would make me exhausted. No wonder Barker has to take lots of naps! Honey is the artsy young queen. I think he's young, like Jessie, and has had a rough time lately. That doesn't excuse his behavior though. Honey is rude and mean. Maybe he thinks it makes him edgy and cool? I think he wants to emulate Simone but do his own thing at the same time. He hasn't quite figured out what he wants. Feather Duster (Arthur), the "old, old, old, old, old veteran queen" is the wise, father figure of the group. He's been a drag performer for so long he's seen it all. He has a sense of humor but doesn't often show it. I think he tries to take on everyone else's problems and it's weighing heavily on him. Arthur is perceptive enough to see Julia is investigating the crime and they become quite friendly. I grew rather attached to him. Simone Phoenix, celebrity illusionist (impersonator) is the star attraction. Simon is a truly awful person. All these "girls" are divas but Simone/Simon is the worst. Demanding, arrogant, rude and pushy, Simon has no sense of community. He's a narcissist. I am not surprised someone tried to kill him. I don't blame them. Finally, Tuna Turner, a true impersonator who looks like a woman. Marvin, Tuna's real name, is not the most pleasant person to be around. His issue is lame and doesn't really fit in with the story. He's snippy and rude to Julia all the time and yes she's snooping but he's just not nice. He also doesn't take advice very well. Which one hurt Simone? I don't think any of them! I hope it was faulty wiring or someone from the lighting company for some homophobic reason. At the very least, I want it to be Honey.
This is the lightest and most fun of the books I've read in this series so far. I recommend it to fans of British cozies.
June 22, 2018
The latest installment in the Peridale Cafe Mysteries started off a bit slow for me, and initially I was upset when Julia, Barker, Jessie, and Alfie all end up going away to Blackpool, leaving behind the rest of the villagers in Peridale. But realistically, with this the 13th in the series set in quick succession, only so many people can be killed in Peridale (a small town in the Cotswolds) before everyone leaves town or is murdered.
Julia quickly becomes involved in the lives of people who live and work at the B&B they're staying at in Blackpool. At first I worried when I learned that the B&B is known for it's drag nightly drag show, afraid everyone would be a caricature. However, we quickly learn a lot about the whole group of characters, each of whom has a rather interesting story.
This time there's some nice development for Jessie and Alfie, as well as in Julia's relationship with them. The mystery? It does get solved by Julia, as usual, with Barker almost just a sidenote now that he's an author rather than a policeman. I've never been to Blackpool but will admit that I began looking things up on the web while reading, as the author gave some interesting information about the setting.
I don't think this would work well as a standalone, as for me most of the pleasure in the books is re-visiting the familiar characters. Overall, I'd give it a B-, so rounding up to 4 stars here.
Julia quickly becomes involved in the lives of people who live and work at the B&B they're staying at in Blackpool. At first I worried when I learned that the B&B is known for it's drag nightly drag show, afraid everyone would be a caricature. However, we quickly learn a lot about the whole group of characters, each of whom has a rather interesting story.
This time there's some nice development for Jessie and Alfie, as well as in Julia's relationship with them. The mystery? It does get solved by Julia, as usual, with Barker almost just a sidenote now that he's an author rather than a policeman. I've never been to Blackpool but will admit that I began looking things up on the web while reading, as the author gave some interesting information about the setting.
I don't think this would work well as a standalone, as for me most of the pleasure in the books is re-visiting the familiar characters. Overall, I'd give it a B-, so rounding up to 4 stars here.
August 3, 2020
4.5 stars
This is the thirteenth book in the Peridale Cafe mystery series by Agatha Frost.
When Dot tries to win a holiday vacation and loses, the winner gives her ticket to Dot who immediately gives it to Julia, Jesse, Alphie and Barker. They go to a quirky B&B run by drag queens in a friendly seaside town. When a lighting rig falls on the main act and nearly kills him, the owner finds himself as suspect number one. Julia tries to keep out of it but she gives in when she realizes how wonderful all the people around her are. She just has to figure this out for them.
This one had quite a surprise ending. I liked how the author integrated the background of Jessie and Alphie into the plot and how this trip made Jessie really grow up a lot.
Quite a fun read. All the drag queen stuff was unique and interesting too. All around great book
Loved so much about it. If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the thirteenth book in the Peridale Cafe mystery series by Agatha Frost.
When Dot tries to win a holiday vacation and loses, the winner gives her ticket to Dot who immediately gives it to Julia, Jesse, Alphie and Barker. They go to a quirky B&B run by drag queens in a friendly seaside town. When a lighting rig falls on the main act and nearly kills him, the owner finds himself as suspect number one. Julia tries to keep out of it but she gives in when she realizes how wonderful all the people around her are. She just has to figure this out for them.
This one had quite a surprise ending. I liked how the author integrated the background of Jessie and Alphie into the plot and how this trip made Jessie really grow up a lot.
Quite a fun read. All the drag queen stuff was unique and interesting too. All around great book
Loved so much about it. If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
June 21, 2018
Sweet!
This story is the sweetest of all the Peridale Cafe books in so many ways. It touched my heart deeply. It’s all about family, those you are born into & those you make. The bonds are as weak or as strong as you want them to be. There were bittersweet moments & moments of great joy. Don’t miss this one!
This story is the sweetest of all the Peridale Cafe books in so many ways. It touched my heart deeply. It’s all about family, those you are born into & those you make. The bonds are as weak or as strong as you want them to be. There were bittersweet moments & moments of great joy. Don’t miss this one!
September 9, 2021
Blackpool, England - May
No one dies in this story. The mystery involves a drag show, sabotage, and money. Also, Jessie learns about her past, and Julia sets a date for the wedding. The mystery was intriguing. I had the reason right, but I thought it would be someone else. I didn't like the rest of the story, though. I wish the author had gone a different route with Jessie and her family.
No one dies in this story. The mystery involves a drag show, sabotage, and money. Also, Jessie learns about her past, and Julia sets a date for the wedding. The mystery was intriguing. I had the reason right, but I thought it would be someone else. I didn't like the rest of the story, though. I wish the author had gone a different route with Jessie and her family.
June 23, 2018
Loved it! I think it was the best so far!!!
April 15, 2019
3.5 Stars rounded up to 4. Agatha Frost writes some of the best characters-they feel like old friends you can’t wait to revisit or family you can’t help but love!
I always look forward to the next installment in the Peridale Cafe series.
I always look forward to the next installment in the Peridale Cafe series.
July 4, 2018
I loved this book! I could hardly put it down! I loved the characters and relationship development. I’ve never been to Blackpool, but through the detailed descriptions in the book, I now feel I have. The characters at the B&B in Blackpool were very interesting. They were not stereotypes and I felt immediately drawn into their world. The story continued to show that “family” isn’t necessarily about blood. It’s about being accepted and loved for who you are. The plot had many twists and turns and I was not able to figure out the mystery. I highly recommend this book and series. I look forward to reading the next book in this series.Thank
June 22, 2018
The latest book in the Peridale series with Julia, Barker, Jessie, Alfie and Dot.
At the local village fete Dot buys many tickets for the raffle in the hope of winning the main prize. As usual, things don't go quite to plan!
Jessie is only a few days away from her 18th birthday and anxiously awaiting news of her adoption, will it go through before she comes of age?
Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie go to Blackpool for a holiday leaving Katie and Julia's Dad in charge of the cafe. The place they're staying at is a little different from the norm, Sparkles is run by a drag queen. As per all the books in this delightful series there's an attempted murder and Julia just can't keep out of it and tries to solve it, but can she before she has to go home? and if not can she leave it unsolved?
A standalone story but with characters from previous books, books best read in order but not necessary for enjoyment purposes.
I can't wait for the next in this series, I always pre order them to read on the day they're released.
At the local village fete Dot buys many tickets for the raffle in the hope of winning the main prize. As usual, things don't go quite to plan!
Jessie is only a few days away from her 18th birthday and anxiously awaiting news of her adoption, will it go through before she comes of age?
Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie go to Blackpool for a holiday leaving Katie and Julia's Dad in charge of the cafe. The place they're staying at is a little different from the norm, Sparkles is run by a drag queen. As per all the books in this delightful series there's an attempted murder and Julia just can't keep out of it and tries to solve it, but can she before she has to go home? and if not can she leave it unsolved?
A standalone story but with characters from previous books, books best read in order but not necessary for enjoyment purposes.
I can't wait for the next in this series, I always pre order them to read on the day they're released.
June 3, 2020
Julia South owns & runs the Peridale Cafe.
Julia lives with her cat, Mowgli, Barker
Brown retired detective turned author and
young girl who has been in various foster
homes. Julia and Barker are in the process
of adopting Jessie. Jesse also works in
the Cafe. Julia’s Aunt Dot also lives in
Peridale. Julia’s father lives in the Peridale
Manor with his new wife, Katie.
At the local village fete to help unfortunate
homeless individuals, Aunt Dot buys many
lottery tickets to win the big prize: a trip.
But her plans go awry!!
Julia, Barker, Jessie and Jessie’s brother,
Alfie end up going to Blackpool for the trip.
Blackpool is located in the North West
region of England. It is a popular tourist
destination from the 1840s when the
railways connected it to the rest of the
country. There are three piers, bed and
and breakfasts, fortune tellers, fish and
chip shops, theatres, pubs, donkey rides
on the beach, ice cream shops and a iron
tower that is very tall.
The place where they are staying is called
Sparkles by the Seas located in the Cabaret
Show Bar Bed and Breakfast run by a group
of DragQueens.
Each character is multifaceted. All the
characters have interesting backstories
which will come to light as Julia investigates
whether the ceiling stage lighting apparatus
that falls on top of one actors was accidental
or accidentally on purpose.
A good mixture of mystery, secrets, suspense
and fluid description.
This is book # 13 in the Peridale Cafe Mystery
series. It can be read as a stand alone.
Julia lives with her cat, Mowgli, Barker
Brown retired detective turned author and
young girl who has been in various foster
homes. Julia and Barker are in the process
of adopting Jessie. Jesse also works in
the Cafe. Julia’s Aunt Dot also lives in
Peridale. Julia’s father lives in the Peridale
Manor with his new wife, Katie.
At the local village fete to help unfortunate
homeless individuals, Aunt Dot buys many
lottery tickets to win the big prize: a trip.
But her plans go awry!!
Julia, Barker, Jessie and Jessie’s brother,
Alfie end up going to Blackpool for the trip.
Blackpool is located in the North West
region of England. It is a popular tourist
destination from the 1840s when the
railways connected it to the rest of the
country. There are three piers, bed and
and breakfasts, fortune tellers, fish and
chip shops, theatres, pubs, donkey rides
on the beach, ice cream shops and a iron
tower that is very tall.
The place where they are staying is called
Sparkles by the Seas located in the Cabaret
Show Bar Bed and Breakfast run by a group
of DragQueens.
Each character is multifaceted. All the
characters have interesting backstories
which will come to light as Julia investigates
whether the ceiling stage lighting apparatus
that falls on top of one actors was accidental
or accidentally on purpose.
A good mixture of mystery, secrets, suspense
and fluid description.
This is book # 13 in the Peridale Cafe Mystery
series. It can be read as a stand alone.
February 12, 2023
“Come in! I don’t like leaving the door open. It lets the fun leak out.” - Russell
Julia, her fiancé Barker, her foster daughter Jessie, and Jessie’s brother go on a week long holiday. They meet Russell who is the B & B owner of where they’re staying.
Russell is also a drag queen who has a small crew of other drag queens that perform at the B & B’s restaurant.
One of the queens named Simone is targeted and nearly killed while performing. Julia feels the incident is not just an accident and she is determined to find out who sabotaged the part that nearly killed Simone.
During all of this, Alfie opens up to his sister, Jessie and tells her the city they’re in is where she and him lived before their mom and dad died in their car accident. Jessie has her own wounds to heal and her own anger to let go of. It is also only days before her 18th birthday.
Julia and Barker are also anxious for the adoption paperwork to finalize on Jessie before her 18th.
There’s a lot going on and quite a bit of healing to be had. I like the characters in this read as they all seem so real and have a lot of depth. Plus, there’s lots of fun!
Next is book 14 of 26 - Champagne and Catastrophes
Julia, her fiancé Barker, her foster daughter Jessie, and Jessie’s brother go on a week long holiday. They meet Russell who is the B & B owner of where they’re staying.
Russell is also a drag queen who has a small crew of other drag queens that perform at the B & B’s restaurant.
One of the queens named Simone is targeted and nearly killed while performing. Julia feels the incident is not just an accident and she is determined to find out who sabotaged the part that nearly killed Simone.
During all of this, Alfie opens up to his sister, Jessie and tells her the city they’re in is where she and him lived before their mom and dad died in their car accident. Jessie has her own wounds to heal and her own anger to let go of. It is also only days before her 18th birthday.
Julia and Barker are also anxious for the adoption paperwork to finalize on Jessie before her 18th.
There’s a lot going on and quite a bit of healing to be had. I like the characters in this read as they all seem so real and have a lot of depth. Plus, there’s lots of fun!
Next is book 14 of 26 - Champagne and Catastrophes
August 14, 2018
I read this on the kindle
I have read all previous 12 books in the series & enjoyed them but this one I must say that it was the worse
First you have Julia, Barker, Alfie & Jessie going to Blackpool where an accident happens or was it more than that
Then Julia cooks on holiday which is a bit unbelievable even with the owner, but then sneeks in to cook a cake you don't go into a B&B kitchen without asking so that didn't ring true
She didn't ask Barker who if anyone was with him at the time of the accident
The person who lied as soon as I read it I knew who it was
Then considering they are suppose to be on holiday Julia leaves them a awful lot she don't really consider Jessie & Barker even knowing that Jessie gets upset
So all in all can't say that I enjoyed this one hope the next one improves
I have read all previous 12 books in the series & enjoyed them but this one I must say that it was the worse
First you have Julia, Barker, Alfie & Jessie going to Blackpool where an accident happens or was it more than that
Then Julia cooks on holiday which is a bit unbelievable even with the owner, but then sneeks in to cook a cake you don't go into a B&B kitchen without asking so that didn't ring true
She didn't ask Barker who if anyone was with him at the time of the accident
The person who lied as soon as I read it I knew who it was
Then considering they are suppose to be on holiday Julia leaves them a awful lot she don't really consider Jessie & Barker even knowing that Jessie gets upset
So all in all can't say that I enjoyed this one hope the next one improves
November 10, 2023
I enjoyed reading Ice Cream and Incidents by Agatha Frost. This book is from the Peridale Cafe mystery series which is so much fun to read. In this thirteenth installment, Julia South, her fiance Barker Brown, her foster daughter Jessie, and Jessie's brother Alfie, use the tickets that Dot won at the Peridale fete to go to the Cabaret Show Bar Bed and Breakfast in Blackpool, England. They are having a great time until a lightning rig at Sparkles falls on the star drag performer--Simone Phoenix. Julia does her best not to get involved, but she just can't resist asking some questions and trying to get alibis. This series has so many fun characters in the small town and the characters in Blackpool are interesting too. I smiled at the end of this story and can't wait to see what happens next!
August 9, 2018
Dot, Julia's grandmother, wins a bunch of prizes at the fete. She doesn't get the grand prize, which is a week's vacation for four. A neighbor wins in but decides she doesn't want it, so she gives it to Dot. At the last second, Dot backs out and gives the four tickets to Julie, Jessie, Barker and Alfie. The four set out for Blackpool. When they arrive, they find their rooms are at a hotel that provides entertainment by drag queens. The story was very good and portrayed a life style I've never read about before. The events played out tastefully. The story was also about families - the ones you are born into, the ones you make with friends, the ones from where you work. A great addition to the Peridale stories.
June 20, 2018
The Peridale series is one of my favourites and it continues getting better!
The geographical location of this latest book is Blackpool and it is so vividly described, you are transported there.
The characters are written realistically with honesty and warmth and never come across as caricatures.
The whodunit was (as always) top notch, with plenty of twists to keep me guessing and entertained right up to the end!
I love the characters and their development over the series.
This latest offering does not disappoint and I cannot wait to read the next one!
The geographical location of this latest book is Blackpool and it is so vividly described, you are transported there.
The characters are written realistically with honesty and warmth and never come across as caricatures.
The whodunit was (as always) top notch, with plenty of twists to keep me guessing and entertained right up to the end!
I love the characters and their development over the series.
This latest offering does not disappoint and I cannot wait to read the next one!
July 25, 2019
This was a really great cozy mystery. I find myself drawn to the feel-good aspects of the cozy mysteries. I find they satisfy my love for the mystery genre, without the gruesome material and darkness that can weigh you down after a while. However, I would recommend reading this series in serial order. This was the 1st in the series I have read, and I was genuinely lost since it is the 13th in the series. I was confused as to who charcters were and their relationships to one another. However, I found the characters endearing and will probably look for the 1st book and read that one.
July 3, 2020
Yet another enjoyable cosy mystery by Agatha Frost that follows Julia and her family on an an adventurous holiday to Blackpool, where they help sort out the tangled lives of drag queens at their luxuriously glitzy B&B "Sparkles by the Sea".
Every book in this series has an exciting yet very different storyline that keeps you reading till it's satisfactory conclusion, so now on to the next in this series to see how Julia works through further exciting mysteries with her endearing family, all so cleverly drawn by the author.
Every book in this series has an exciting yet very different storyline that keeps you reading till it's satisfactory conclusion, so now on to the next in this series to see how Julia works through further exciting mysteries with her endearing family, all so cleverly drawn by the author.
July 10, 2021
Another delightful romp sith Julia and co
I have loved every one of these books, and if Peridale existed I would be there! However in this one Julia and Barker, along with Jessie and Alfie head to Blackpool courtesy of Dot and a raffle ticket! Their stay is at a B&B which is run by drag queens, which was a delight to read and cleverly put together. naturally there is an incident and Julia needs to sort the truth from the lies so as to uncover the deceit and lies. A most delightful read!
I have loved every one of these books, and if Peridale existed I would be there! However in this one Julia and Barker, along with Jessie and Alfie head to Blackpool courtesy of Dot and a raffle ticket! Their stay is at a B&B which is run by drag queens, which was a delight to read and cleverly put together. naturally there is an incident and Julia needs to sort the truth from the lies so as to uncover the deceit and lies. A most delightful read!
September 10, 2021
I love this series. Julia is such a caring, loving person who just can’t help herself when things go wrong around her. She just has to help, sometimes at great danger to herself, but not this time. She makes some really interesting and intriguing friends while on holidays, and she eventually figures it out... another character similar to herself. Also kind and caring.
Anyway, it’s an excellent read if you like soft gentle mysteries. Others in the series aren���t so gentle, so check them out if you’re looking for harder action.
Anyway, it’s an excellent read if you like soft gentle mysteries. Others in the series aren���t so gentle, so check them out if you’re looking for harder action.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2024
Entertaining as usual and I really enjoyed reading this book.
I hardly know the first thing about drag queens, but it was delightful to get a snippet of it, and the characters especially the queens grew on me as I went deeper into the story.
The mystery plot was also intriguing; it almost tricked me into believing the story would end that way, but of course the author had prepared a twist for the kill.
The ending was beautiful and fitting, but I thought the very end was a bit rushed. I'll give the book solid 4 stars.
I hardly know the first thing about drag queens, but it was delightful to get a snippet of it, and the characters especially the queens grew on me as I went deeper into the story.
The mystery plot was also intriguing; it almost tricked me into believing the story would end that way, but of course the author had prepared a twist for the kill.
The ending was beautiful and fitting, but I thought the very end was a bit rushed. I'll give the book solid 4 stars.
June 20, 2018
This book is so much fun everything in this is so right.
I have never been to Blackpool but with the description Agatha has given I now feel as if I have been there.
These books are always a happy place to be even if someone has a misfortune to either die or nearly ..
Extremely well written .
The characters in this book as always are extremely interesting they all have a story to tell.
And Jesse ~~~~ she has grown into herself and is loved .
I have never been to Blackpool but with the description Agatha has given I now feel as if I have been there.
These books are always a happy place to be even if someone has a misfortune to either die or nearly ..
Extremely well written .
The characters in this book as always are extremely interesting they all have a story to tell.
And Jesse ~~~~ she has grown into herself and is loved .
June 21, 2018
New location. Same great characters.
I wasn't sure if I'd like this as much with the book being set in Blackpool. I thought I'd miss Peridale and the village setting. I didn't. It just goes to show how strong the characters of Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie are. This adventure at Sparkles by the sea is brilliant. I won't spoil any of the storyline but suffice to say I enjoyed it enormously.
I wasn't sure if I'd like this as much with the book being set in Blackpool. I thought I'd miss Peridale and the village setting. I didn't. It just goes to show how strong the characters of Julia, Barker, Jessie and Alfie are. This adventure at Sparkles by the sea is brilliant. I won't spoil any of the storyline but suffice to say I enjoyed it enormously.
July 20, 2018
Fun mystery! This one was definitely a bit different than normal...in more ways that one! The change in scenery was an enjoyable change of pace, and I liked the new characters we met at the Sparkle B&B. The mystery is also solved a bit differently than normal. I liked the developments with Jessie and Alfie. My only complaint is that I would have liked a little more Barker, but still very enjoyable!
June 21, 2018
A Delightful Vacation Conundrum
I absolutely loved this from beginning to end. The continuing character development and familial bonds are heart warming. I didn't know "whodunit" until Julia did. I really enjoyed the Blackpool setting...never having been to England, I enjoyed traveling through Julia's eyes. Another fabulous success in the Peridale series.
I absolutely loved this from beginning to end. The continuing character development and familial bonds are heart warming. I didn't know "whodunit" until Julia did. I really enjoyed the Blackpool setting...never having been to England, I enjoyed traveling through Julia's eyes. Another fabulous success in the Peridale series.
June 23, 2018
Great
I would have given it 10 Stars. I love the main characters. The story about the drag queens was very good. They 're ordinary people making a living doing artsy things. Totally enjoyed it. Can t wait for next book. Thank you so much and stAy well. It's nice to see people come together and help a friend.
I would have given it 10 Stars. I love the main characters. The story about the drag queens was very good. They 're ordinary people making a living doing artsy things. Totally enjoyed it. Can t wait for next book. Thank you so much and stAy well. It's nice to see people come together and help a friend.
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