What do you think?
Rate this book
Reverend Alma Lee Mysteries #1
All Things
A priest and a rabbi walk into a lesbian bar…
If something is unjust in San Francisco’s Mission District, the Reverend Alma Lee will face it down. She leads her vibrant church of St. Giles’ with compassion and sass. Her busy days involve match-making, meddling, and saving the city’s beloved lesbian landmark, The Carlos Club. Alma meets the intriguing Rabbi Naomi Cohen there, and she’s smitten.
Death comes to the church’s door…
When the proprietor of The Carlos Club turns up dead on the steps of St. Giles’, Naomi’s brother is the number one suspect. She needs help exonerating him, and Alma’s knowledge of the neighborhood makes her the perfect priest to solve the case. If only Alma’s ex-boyfriend, homicide detective Cesar Garza will accept her help. She still feels the pull of their old connection, but she’s convinced the sexy-smart rabbi is her perfect mate. . . Too bad Naomi is playing by different rules.
Can Alma solve the case before the murderer silences her forever?
About the Reverend Alma Lee Mystery Series
Meet the Rev. Alma Lee, the next priest-detective in a long line of clergy sleuths from Father Brown to Clare Fergusson, Brother Cadfael to Sydney Chambers. Only, instead of a rural village, Alma’s turf is San Francisco—gritty, gay, and glorious. Her methods border on the absurd, and she has more attractive admirers than anyone who’s taken holy orders has a right to. If she's on the case, the murderer doesn't stand a chance.
If something is unjust in San Francisco’s Mission District, the Reverend Alma Lee will face it down. She leads her vibrant church of St. Giles’ with compassion and sass. Her busy days involve match-making, meddling, and saving the city’s beloved lesbian landmark, The Carlos Club. Alma meets the intriguing Rabbi Naomi Cohen there, and she’s smitten.
Death comes to the church’s door…
When the proprietor of The Carlos Club turns up dead on the steps of St. Giles’, Naomi’s brother is the number one suspect. She needs help exonerating him, and Alma’s knowledge of the neighborhood makes her the perfect priest to solve the case. If only Alma’s ex-boyfriend, homicide detective Cesar Garza will accept her help. She still feels the pull of their old connection, but she’s convinced the sexy-smart rabbi is her perfect mate. . . Too bad Naomi is playing by different rules.
Can Alma solve the case before the murderer silences her forever?
About the Reverend Alma Lee Mystery Series
Meet the Rev. Alma Lee, the next priest-detective in a long line of clergy sleuths from Father Brown to Clare Fergusson, Brother Cadfael to Sydney Chambers. Only, instead of a rural village, Alma’s turf is San Francisco—gritty, gay, and glorious. Her methods border on the absurd, and she has more attractive admirers than anyone who’s taken holy orders has a right to. If she's on the case, the murderer doesn't stand a chance.
196 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 9, 2018
26 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Amber Belldene
17 books174 followersFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/amberbelldene
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmberBelldene
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amberbelldene/
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/WF3j5
Amber Belldene grew up on the Florida panhandle, swimming with alligators, climbing oak trees and diving for scallops…when she could pull herself away from a book. As a child, she hid her Nancy Drew novels inside the church bulletin and read mysteries during sermons—an irony that is not lost on her when she preaches these days.
Amber is an Episcopal Priest and student of religion. She believes stories are the best way to explore human truths. Some people think it is strange for a minister to write love stories, but it is perfectly natural to her, because the human desire for love is at the heart of all the best books and God made people with that desire. She lives with her husband and two children in San Francisco and loves chatting with readers and other authors on social media!
Twitter: https://twitter.com/AmberBelldene
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/amberbelldene/
Newsletter: http://eepurl.com/WF3j5
Amber Belldene grew up on the Florida panhandle, swimming with alligators, climbing oak trees and diving for scallops…when she could pull herself away from a book. As a child, she hid her Nancy Drew novels inside the church bulletin and read mysteries during sermons—an irony that is not lost on her when she preaches these days.
Amber is an Episcopal Priest and student of religion. She believes stories are the best way to explore human truths. Some people think it is strange for a minister to write love stories, but it is perfectly natural to her, because the human desire for love is at the heart of all the best books and God made people with that desire. She lives with her husband and two children in San Francisco and loves chatting with readers and other authors on social media!
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 18, 2018
3.25 Stars. I would say this was a slightly better than okay read. This is a cozy mystery and I thought the mystery part was really well done. It took me much longer than normal to have any clue about who the killer actually was. I love mysteries that can keep me guessing and this book really did. My disappointment came from the small bit of romance that I found lacking. I would more say that this is a book with LGBTQ characters than labeling it lesbian fiction.
The main character Alma, is a bisexual Reverend for a church in San Francisco. She is instantly attracted to a lesbian Rabbi who is connected to the murder case. While I really liked the character of Alma, I was disappointed to feel almost no chemistry between her and the Rabbi. On top of everything the book felt like a big set-up just to get her back together with her know-it-all and moderately biphobic ex-boyfriend.
The way this book ended it looks like it could be a series. While the mystery was good enough that I would be tempted to read the next; I really could not stomach her ex-boyfriend enough to continue reading if he had a bigger role. I’m going to wait to hear more about the next book before I make a decision. If you are a cozy mystery fan you might enjoy this, just be prepared that the romance is not really there.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley for a honest review.
The main character Alma, is a bisexual Reverend for a church in San Francisco. She is instantly attracted to a lesbian Rabbi who is connected to the murder case. While I really liked the character of Alma, I was disappointed to feel almost no chemistry between her and the Rabbi. On top of everything the book felt like a big set-up just to get her back together with her know-it-all and moderately biphobic ex-boyfriend.
The way this book ended it looks like it could be a series. While the mystery was good enough that I would be tempted to read the next; I really could not stomach her ex-boyfriend enough to continue reading if he had a bigger role. I’m going to wait to hear more about the next book before I make a decision. If you are a cozy mystery fan you might enjoy this, just be prepared that the romance is not really there.
An ARC was given to me by Netgalley for a honest review.
August 7, 2018
I don’t know exactly what to make of All Things. As a murder/mystery I think it ticked the boxes. There is a good plot, plenty of suspects, a few red herrings, a tenacious priest/amateur sleuth who tries to find justice for her murdered friend. Author Amber Belldene is a seasoned writer and as an Episcopal priest she knows her subject matter. Religion is pretty much the theme all throughout the book (sure guess this will be the backbone of the series).
The LGBTQ part of the book was a bit of a letdown for me. Main character Alma is bi, her crush, rabbi Naomi a lesbian but there was no real lesfic feel about the book. There is an odd preference for lovingly describing the beauty of the male form. And Alma still lusting and carrying an enormous torch for the ex-lover, police detective Cezar (who dumped her) gave this novel an overall too straight vibe for my liking. There was no (sexual) chemistry between Alma and Naomi and when they finally did get together it happened off camera. Meh.
The writing is good but sparse in descriptions so I didn’t get a real grip on the characters. Other than her being short, I didn’t know Alma was Chinese/Latina more than halfway through the book. I still can’t tell you what she looks like. Naomi has brown hair and a sexy mouth but that’s about all I know of her.
The vegan crusade is strong in this one, as food choices, faux leather clothing, fair trade and animal abuse issues were too prominent to ignore. I get it that our Episcopalian priest is vegan, okay? So please stop clobbering me over the head with it.
f/f
Themes: I guess I have to qualify this as a religious mystery cozy, if this book is marketed towards the lesfic community they will find it lacking, the religious part was not preachy but the vegan part was.
3 stars
* An ARC copy was provided by Netgalley and the author for an honest review.
The LGBTQ part of the book was a bit of a letdown for me. Main character Alma is bi, her crush, rabbi Naomi a lesbian but there was no real lesfic feel about the book. There is an odd preference for lovingly describing the beauty of the male form. And Alma still lusting and carrying an enormous torch for the ex-lover, police detective Cezar (who dumped her) gave this novel an overall too straight vibe for my liking. There was no (sexual) chemistry between Alma and Naomi and when they finally did get together it happened off camera. Meh.
The writing is good but sparse in descriptions so I didn’t get a real grip on the characters. Other than her being short, I didn’t know Alma was Chinese/Latina more than halfway through the book. I still can’t tell you what she looks like. Naomi has brown hair and a sexy mouth but that’s about all I know of her.
The vegan crusade is strong in this one, as food choices, faux leather clothing, fair trade and animal abuse issues were too prominent to ignore. I get it that our Episcopalian priest is vegan, okay? So please stop clobbering me over the head with it.
f/f
Themes: I guess I have to qualify this as a religious mystery cozy, if this book is marketed towards the lesfic community they will find it lacking, the religious part was not preachy but the vegan part was.
3 stars
* An ARC copy was provided by Netgalley and the author for an honest review.
September 27, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.75 stars
Alma is my kind of character. She’s brash and bold, but kind hearted and so giving. She wants to be all things, and maybe stretches herself a little too far. But she can handle it, even if others would rather she slow down a bit. I loved the character, and I loved the way she didn’t take no for an answer. But she was so big hearted, and her knowledge of people was what really gave her the edge. Not only does she have Mission Street down, but she just reads people well. She treats them like humans, no matter who they are, and I simply adored her.
The mystery was also fairly well done. I will say that I knew who the killer would be, as there was some definite telegraphing from early on. But that said, the motive and the process were wonderfully laid out and all tied up neatly at the end. It wasn’t a complete surprise, but I loved that all the clues added up and made perfect sense.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.75 stars
Alma is my kind of character. She’s brash and bold, but kind hearted and so giving. She wants to be all things, and maybe stretches herself a little too far. But she can handle it, even if others would rather she slow down a bit. I loved the character, and I loved the way she didn’t take no for an answer. But she was so big hearted, and her knowledge of people was what really gave her the edge. Not only does she have Mission Street down, but she just reads people well. She treats them like humans, no matter who they are, and I simply adored her.
The mystery was also fairly well done. I will say that I knew who the killer would be, as there was some definite telegraphing from early on. But that said, the motive and the process were wonderfully laid out and all tied up neatly at the end. It wasn’t a complete surprise, but I loved that all the clues added up and made perfect sense.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
October 7, 2018
Probably rounded up from 3.5ish.
Things I enjoyed about this cozy mystery: main character—vegan, activist, bi-sexual, biracial priest Alma Lee. Her world, both the SF Mission district in which her church is located and her professional life, felt real to me (the author, like Alma, is an Episcopal priest). Alma’s faith is integral to her life and view of the world, but the book didn’t feel preachy to me; on the other hand, I’m also a left-leaning Episcopalian, so her world view wasn’t that different from mine, and YMMV on that.
The setting and Alma’s role as a priest mean that there are a wide range of secondary characters, from the victim, a lesbian bar owner, to fellow priests, older members of the congregation, a local politician, and the neighbourhood homeless people. They mostly felt convincing and I liked the breadth of the novel’s world. Cozy mysteries are often too cutesy for my taste, with their small towns and cupcake shops, but this one is set in an urban world I recognized. The mystery was engaging and I found the meddlesome Alma’s role as amateur sleuth plausible. I did eventually guess whodunnit and the motive was a stretch, but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
Qualms: some parts of Alma’s identity are more fully realized than others. Priest and activist? Yes. But she’s less plausible as the daughter of a Chinese-American father and Latina mother. We don’t see much of her parents, though they live nearby, and it’s hard to see how her cultural roots have influenced Alma, or what parts of them are embedded in her life, despite some offhand references to her multilingualism (we don’t see her speaking anything but English with people she encounters) and ability to cook dishes from both cultures. I didn’t want her throwing Spanish or Mandarin into every other sentence, but she didn’t seem entirely plausible as someone from that background.
The same is true of her bisexuality, and this I think may be because of Alma’s origins as a secondary character in the author’s romance series about female priests. There’s something of a triangle her between Alma, her ex, Cesar the cop, and Naomi, a rabbi whose brother is a suspect in the murder. Alma’s attraction to Cesar just seemed more plausible and more sexual than her attraction to Naomi, and I thought this was partly because the author is used to writing in the tropes of m/f romance, which Cesar fits. When Alma’s BFFs from the previous series appear, they are all happily-married, stable straight women, while Alma is scatty and love-lorn. That’s clearly not meant to be a comment on her bisexual fate, it’s just an artefact of the way the book fits in the author’s oeuvre, but it’s unfortunate. (If Alma hangs out at lesbian bars, why does Cindy, the bar owner/victim, seem to have been her only close friend who isn’t straight?) There’s a point where Alma thinks of herself as fluid, existing between binaries, and how that is the origin of her activism. That is both plausible and seems to reduce her identities to metaphor. At the same time, I’m only writing about this at such length because Belldene made me like Alma a lot and clearly takes these aspects of her character seriously. And as a straight white woman, I’m not the best judge of how she pulls this off.
Things I enjoyed about this cozy mystery: main character—vegan, activist, bi-sexual, biracial priest Alma Lee. Her world, both the SF Mission district in which her church is located and her professional life, felt real to me (the author, like Alma, is an Episcopal priest). Alma’s faith is integral to her life and view of the world, but the book didn’t feel preachy to me; on the other hand, I’m also a left-leaning Episcopalian, so her world view wasn’t that different from mine, and YMMV on that.
The setting and Alma’s role as a priest mean that there are a wide range of secondary characters, from the victim, a lesbian bar owner, to fellow priests, older members of the congregation, a local politician, and the neighbourhood homeless people. They mostly felt convincing and I liked the breadth of the novel’s world. Cozy mysteries are often too cutesy for my taste, with their small towns and cupcake shops, but this one is set in an urban world I recognized. The mystery was engaging and I found the meddlesome Alma’s role as amateur sleuth plausible. I did eventually guess whodunnit and the motive was a stretch, but I enjoyed it nevertheless.
Qualms: some parts of Alma’s identity are more fully realized than others. Priest and activist? Yes. But she’s less plausible as the daughter of a Chinese-American father and Latina mother. We don’t see much of her parents, though they live nearby, and it’s hard to see how her cultural roots have influenced Alma, or what parts of them are embedded in her life, despite some offhand references to her multilingualism (we don’t see her speaking anything but English with people she encounters) and ability to cook dishes from both cultures. I didn’t want her throwing Spanish or Mandarin into every other sentence, but she didn’t seem entirely plausible as someone from that background.
The same is true of her bisexuality, and this I think may be because of Alma’s origins as a secondary character in the author’s romance series about female priests. There’s something of a triangle her between Alma, her ex, Cesar the cop, and Naomi, a rabbi whose brother is a suspect in the murder. Alma’s attraction to Cesar just seemed more plausible and more sexual than her attraction to Naomi, and I thought this was partly because the author is used to writing in the tropes of m/f romance, which Cesar fits. When Alma’s BFFs from the previous series appear, they are all happily-married, stable straight women, while Alma is scatty and love-lorn. That’s clearly not meant to be a comment on her bisexual fate, it’s just an artefact of the way the book fits in the author’s oeuvre, but it’s unfortunate. (If Alma hangs out at lesbian bars, why does Cindy, the bar owner/victim, seem to have been her only close friend who isn’t straight?) There’s a point where Alma thinks of herself as fluid, existing between binaries, and how that is the origin of her activism. That is both plausible and seems to reduce her identities to metaphor. At the same time, I’m only writing about this at such length because Belldene made me like Alma a lot and clearly takes these aspects of her character seriously. And as a straight white woman, I’m not the best judge of how she pulls this off.
September 15, 2018
So first, there was a typo on the first page of the book which is not great, so I hope that the file gets fixed (or has been fixed, it's been a few days since it was released.) Second, I found Alma a little frustrating sometimes--her brand of scattered just reads as really inconsiderate of others to me, even though by her actions, she's clearly anything but. This is my own personal damage growing up with someone who refused to ever be on time for anything.
I was a little surprised that there's a dude that's very much still present in her life, but that's mostly because I thought Alma was a lesbian, not that she's bisexual. That was probably my mistake, it's been some time since I read the other books. The conflict between Alma and Naomi and their different faith journeys felt very real to me, despite my frustration with both of them for pursuing something that was only going to ultimately make them unhappy.
Anyway, I really liked this! I am excited to read more about the Reverend Detective Alma Lee.
I was a little surprised that there's a dude that's very much still present in her life, but that's mostly because I thought Alma was a lesbian, not that she's bisexual. That was probably my mistake, it's been some time since I read the other books. The conflict between Alma and Naomi and their different faith journeys felt very real to me, despite my frustration with both of them for pursuing something that was only going to ultimately make them unhappy.
Anyway, I really liked this! I am excited to read more about the Reverend Detective Alma Lee.
Read
September 11, 2018I was happy to hear that the main character, Alma Lee, was getting her story after being a minor character in the Hot Under Her Collar series. I loved all of Amber Belldene's previous books, so I was excited to receive an advanced copy with a promise of an honest review.
And I really enjoyed this one as well.
As one who works in a church, I find it refreshing to have a story that shows a female priest striving to connect her faith and sense of justice in a world that often doesn't function in ideal ways. The characters were realistic enough that I could picture people in my own life from descriptions as we learned more about their lives, which meant that some characters I couldn't help but love yet others were more annoying.
Alma keeps so busy that she doesn't ever let herself slow down in her attempt to be all things for all people, but her intense passion made for interesting tension as she navigates her day job, romance, and a murder investigation. Throughout the story, she seeks answers while also gaining insight into the people around her. Even as the murder is solved, she is capable of understanding the motives because of her desire to truly know the people around her.
The story was not one where I was able to guess all the details about the murder, which kept me intrigued. Nor was it too complex to follow but found a balance between developing characters and solving the murder mystery. I appreciated the fact that the main character is one who strives to withhold judgment about any one person's choices or lifestyle while holding onto a deep sense of right and wrong. I always like to read stories where the characters have more depth than a basic stereotype, and this book included several characters who refused to remain static and instead became real through reading about their life struggles
And I really enjoyed this one as well.
As one who works in a church, I find it refreshing to have a story that shows a female priest striving to connect her faith and sense of justice in a world that often doesn't function in ideal ways. The characters were realistic enough that I could picture people in my own life from descriptions as we learned more about their lives, which meant that some characters I couldn't help but love yet others were more annoying.
Alma keeps so busy that she doesn't ever let herself slow down in her attempt to be all things for all people, but her intense passion made for interesting tension as she navigates her day job, romance, and a murder investigation. Throughout the story, she seeks answers while also gaining insight into the people around her. Even as the murder is solved, she is capable of understanding the motives because of her desire to truly know the people around her.
The story was not one where I was able to guess all the details about the murder, which kept me intrigued. Nor was it too complex to follow but found a balance between developing characters and solving the murder mystery. I appreciated the fact that the main character is one who strives to withhold judgment about any one person's choices or lifestyle while holding onto a deep sense of right and wrong. I always like to read stories where the characters have more depth than a basic stereotype, and this book included several characters who refused to remain static and instead became real through reading about their life struggles
September 3, 2018
What a different kind of read. A Reverend and a Rabbi walk into a...okay, okay. I liked the connection to the bible and the supportive community. What bothered me was the lack of connection or chemistry among the main three characters. I like the Reverend Alma Lee and her self-talk about everything. It help the reader get to know her and feel for what she was going through. Most of all I like her integrity. I liked and disliked Naomi Cohen. I appreciated her values but I did not like her mixed messages. Cesar Garza, did not like his hanging on groupie status. The mystery was good and held my attention. The ending definitely sets up a series.
ARC provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
January 29, 2024
Actually 3.5 stars.
My issues with this book were few and small:
1. I think I either missed, or she neglected to mention, what religion Alma is a priest in. I eventually worked out that it must be Episcopalian due to the ritualistic nature of the religion but having a gay woman as a priest and now seeing the author is an Episcopalian priest herself, but it would have been nice to be informed (unless I missed that early on... did I miss it?).
2. In the end the Bishop kept harping on her not returning calls. But she did. She called back. She left messages. I know it's ridiculous and small, but it drove me crazy that he kept harping on it and Alma never said, I *did* call back but we kept missing each other. It mattered because her "distraction from her job" was a major factor in this story, but she wasn't completely negligent.
3. I knew who the killer was almost right away. And not even for the "clue" Alma stated should have given it away at the end of the book. But I don't always hold that against books because I'm like that and it's not like it was clearly projected, I'm just good at solving these things.
Those are my issues, but like I said, they were really small and didn't at all detract from my enjoyment of the book - in fact I immediately bought book two on finishing this one.
I found the blend of the romantic and personal subplots along with the mystery itself did a great job of keeping you from spending too much time pondering the Who Dunnit and made the story much more enjoyable. Even though I'd worked out who must have done it very early on the way the other subplots are woven together did a great job of keeping me following the story and almost forgetting that I already knew the answer. Honestly, I'm a little disappointed to discover her other books aren't mysteries.
Would for sure recommend for great bisexual rep and a good mystery.
My issues with this book were few and small:
1. I think I either missed, or she neglected to mention, what religion Alma is a priest in. I eventually worked out that it must be Episcopalian due to the ritualistic nature of the religion but having a gay woman as a priest and now seeing the author is an Episcopalian priest herself, but it would have been nice to be informed (unless I missed that early on... did I miss it?).
2. In the end the Bishop kept harping on her not returning calls. But she did. She called back. She left messages. I know it's ridiculous and small, but it drove me crazy that he kept harping on it and Alma never said, I *did* call back but we kept missing each other. It mattered because her "distraction from her job" was a major factor in this story, but she wasn't completely negligent.
3. I knew who the killer was almost right away. And not even for the "clue" Alma stated should have given it away at the end of the book. But I don't always hold that against books because I'm like that and it's not like it was clearly projected, I'm just good at solving these things.
Those are my issues, but like I said, they were really small and didn't at all detract from my enjoyment of the book - in fact I immediately bought book two on finishing this one.
I found the blend of the romantic and personal subplots along with the mystery itself did a great job of keeping you from spending too much time pondering the Who Dunnit and made the story much more enjoyable. Even though I'd worked out who must have done it very early on the way the other subplots are woven together did a great job of keeping me following the story and almost forgetting that I already knew the answer. Honestly, I'm a little disappointed to discover her other books aren't mysteries.
Would for sure recommend for great bisexual rep and a good mystery.
August 12, 2018
Alma is her own brand of priest. She’s bisexual, nosy, vegan, honest and has a crush on a lady rabbi.The story opens up at the closing of a local lesbian bar called The Carlos Club that hadn’t evolved with the community and the owner wasn’t business savvy. Once the owner turns up dead (what’s sad is I can’t remember her name) on the church doorstep, Alma has to act. Her friend has been murdered and crawled to her church as she died.
The police focus in on the new property owner, the brother to Naomi, the rabbi that Alma is crushing on. And here comes the drama. The cop in charge? Alma’s ex-boyfriend Cesar Garza. It’s obvious he hasn’t gotten over Alma and harbors some hard feelings for her. He wants her to stay out of the investigation and safe. Someone had attempted to poison her, and that should be enough to keep her away. But it’s not.
She can’t Naomi’s brother take the fall. Not when he’s innocent. So she figures out how to use her community knowledge to find the evidence she needs to find the real killer. What was really neat about this was I was debating between two people being the murderer but I was wrong. I liked that I was wrong because most of these cozy mysteries I have it figured out pretty quickly.
The romance aspect of this was not a major plot point in this. Anything other than a kiss between Alma and Naomi ended up in a fade to black type of scene. It was fitting for the type of novel this was. There’s still a part of me that really wanted more though. Like let the Reverend get some hot lady love and don’t let her go back to Cesar like what was hinted at. Keep Reverend Alma with the ladies!
I’ll totally read more in this series though. I liked her sassy self.
The police focus in on the new property owner, the brother to Naomi, the rabbi that Alma is crushing on. And here comes the drama. The cop in charge? Alma’s ex-boyfriend Cesar Garza. It’s obvious he hasn’t gotten over Alma and harbors some hard feelings for her. He wants her to stay out of the investigation and safe. Someone had attempted to poison her, and that should be enough to keep her away. But it’s not.
She can’t Naomi’s brother take the fall. Not when he’s innocent. So she figures out how to use her community knowledge to find the evidence she needs to find the real killer. What was really neat about this was I was debating between two people being the murderer but I was wrong. I liked that I was wrong because most of these cozy mysteries I have it figured out pretty quickly.
The romance aspect of this was not a major plot point in this. Anything other than a kiss between Alma and Naomi ended up in a fade to black type of scene. It was fitting for the type of novel this was. There’s still a part of me that really wanted more though. Like let the Reverend get some hot lady love and don’t let her go back to Cesar like what was hinted at. Keep Reverend Alma with the ladies!
I’ll totally read more in this series though. I liked her sassy self.
September 4, 2018
Disclosure:
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Reverend Alma Lee is the best individual someone can ask for. She brings food for the community when she can, she supports the many causes and she even has a great attitude everyday. The Carlos Club has been there, right across from St. Gile’s for for the longest. Now they are officially closing for good. Things couldn’t get any worse? Till Cindy, Alma’s best friend ends up the her church steps……dead.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful
The lord God made them all.
-an English hymn by Cecil F. Alexander, 1848-
Now it’s up to Alma to find out who really killed her? Who’s stole is that in Cindy’s blood?And who’s this sexy stranger, Naomi who is new to town?
In my honest opinion, “All things” really had me on edge. The whole time I was trying to figure out who killed Cindy. Then you find out and it’s like,” Really.” Of all people, it was you who killed her. I just couldn’t believe it was…..that person. Can’t be giving people hints here. Then the ending, I can not wait until the next book in the series.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the NetGalley book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Reverend Alma Lee is the best individual someone can ask for. She brings food for the community when she can, she supports the many causes and she even has a great attitude everyday. The Carlos Club has been there, right across from St. Gile’s for for the longest. Now they are officially closing for good. Things couldn’t get any worse? Till Cindy, Alma’s best friend ends up the her church steps……dead.
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small
All things wise and wonderful
The lord God made them all.
-an English hymn by Cecil F. Alexander, 1848-
Now it’s up to Alma to find out who really killed her? Who’s stole is that in Cindy’s blood?And who’s this sexy stranger, Naomi who is new to town?
In my honest opinion, “All things” really had me on edge. The whole time I was trying to figure out who killed Cindy. Then you find out and it’s like,” Really.” Of all people, it was you who killed her. I just couldn’t believe it was…..that person. Can’t be giving people hints here. Then the ending, I can not wait until the next book in the series.
September 9, 2018
Full disclosure: I was given an advance reader copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
I am a young clergy woman, so right off the bat I might relate to the lead character more than many readers. Alma is a spitfire priest, full of faith and passion for helping people not just in her church but in her wider community. When death comes (literally) to her doorstep, it is natural for her to jump in and help solve the case.
I love mysteries and I love when they surprise me with whodunnit. I was so intrigued by the world and characters the author created that I didn’t have an inkling of the guilty party until just a few pages before it was finally revealed. I felt the mystery part of the story was well done and I can’t wait to read more stories with Alma as priest/detective.
I don’t have a lot of experience reading books with LGBTQ characters (and I am straight), but that part of the book seemed well done to me as well. I really felt Alma’s pull towards current female (and past male) love interests.
I found myself really engrossed in this novel, to the point of distraction. Which was needed at the time because I read most of it while my husband and I were stranded in a Berlin train station overnight. Thank goodness for good fiction that transports us to another world! I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves strong female characters and a good mystery!
I am a young clergy woman, so right off the bat I might relate to the lead character more than many readers. Alma is a spitfire priest, full of faith and passion for helping people not just in her church but in her wider community. When death comes (literally) to her doorstep, it is natural for her to jump in and help solve the case.
I love mysteries and I love when they surprise me with whodunnit. I was so intrigued by the world and characters the author created that I didn’t have an inkling of the guilty party until just a few pages before it was finally revealed. I felt the mystery part of the story was well done and I can’t wait to read more stories with Alma as priest/detective.
I don’t have a lot of experience reading books with LGBTQ characters (and I am straight), but that part of the book seemed well done to me as well. I really felt Alma’s pull towards current female (and past male) love interests.
I found myself really engrossed in this novel, to the point of distraction. Which was needed at the time because I read most of it while my husband and I were stranded in a Berlin train station overnight. Thank goodness for good fiction that transports us to another world! I would recommend this novel to anyone who loves strong female characters and a good mystery!
September 11, 2018
I am a fan of Amber Belldene's paranormal romances (The Blood Vine and Siren series) and I enjoy reading mysteries, so I was pleased to have the opportunity to read an advanced copy of All Things in exchange for an honest review. One of the author's strengths is her ability to create likeabile, complex characters and place them in intriguing situations. Alma Lee has appeared previously as a minor character in Belldene's Hot Under the Collar series, but here she takes center stage as a priest embroiled in a local murder case. I enjoyed the plot line and was impressed with the solution to the crime, which was tricky but was perfectly "fair" in the sense that it fit all of the facts the reader was given. Alma is not, however, my favorite of Belldene's characters. There are many things to like about Alma - her strength of will, intelligence, and commitment to helping others, but I am always frustrated with characters that behave in self-defeating ways and some of Alma's behaviors (focusing on the crime to the neglect of her job; failing to return calls to her bishop; deliberately frustrating her ex, who seems like a good guy, although not the person for her) fall into that category. It seems like the character grew a little through the course of the book's action, so I am hopeful that she will be just as smart but a bit more together in following Alma Lee novels, and I look forward to reading them.
Read
June 30, 2019DNF
crushed.
Wanted to adore this start to the series
because premise!!!
queer female priest mystery/romance, in SF???
yes, please!!!!
but got TOTALLY creeped out by the "romantic" first meeting with romantic interest
SUPER aggressive romance style - putting hands on her, pulling her towards her, asking to kiss within 2 minutes of meeting
Is my asexuality showing?
I don't think so, because it was my trust/romance wires that got shocked/creeped out
___
also, ex is a police officer (supervising police officer), named Cesar. Audi0book version has narrator saying it with an accent, saying ceh-zar (emphasis on tsar). (Not like you would standard in spanish, emphasis on ce) Maybe he is not latino? but I doubt it from context,
it is pretty weird and jarring for such an extremely common name.
I'm an SF native -- never heard a single person introduce themselves except one of two ways: (like the way we 'mericans pronounce old roman emperor title "See-zer") or Spanish version ce-zar w/ emphasis on ce. So where did this odd pronunciation come from?
Aaaaannnnd I stuck it out further into the book, giving it more of a chance to redeem itself, and Alma (the MC) is a native Spanish speaker. So, yeah, even worse....
Why would the Audiobook production crew / Author not catch/change this mistake ASAP???? (not a mistake, a demonstration of cultural ignorance/lack of inclusion)
crushed.
Wanted to adore this start to the series
because premise!!!
queer female priest mystery/romance, in SF???
yes, please!!!!
but got TOTALLY creeped out by the "romantic" first meeting with romantic interest
SUPER aggressive romance style - putting hands on her, pulling her towards her, asking to kiss within 2 minutes of meeting
Is my asexuality showing?
I don't think so, because it was my trust/romance wires that got shocked/creeped out
___
also, ex is a police officer (supervising police officer), named Cesar. Audi0book version has narrator saying it with an accent, saying ceh-zar (emphasis on tsar). (Not like you would standard in spanish, emphasis on ce) Maybe he is not latino? but I doubt it from context,
it is pretty weird and jarring for such an extremely common name.
I'm an SF native -- never heard a single person introduce themselves except one of two ways: (like the way we 'mericans pronounce old roman emperor title "See-zer") or Spanish version ce-zar w/ emphasis on ce. So where did this odd pronunciation come from?
Aaaaannnnd I stuck it out further into the book, giving it more of a chance to redeem itself, and Alma (the MC) is a native Spanish speaker. So, yeah, even worse....
Why would the Audiobook production crew / Author not catch/change this mistake ASAP???? (not a mistake, a demonstration of cultural ignorance/lack of inclusion)
September 13, 2018
I had the pleasure of reading Amber Belldene's latest book this past week--but this time, the Episcopal priest and romance writer delivered us a mystery! For those who have read Amber's Hot Under Her Collar series, Alma has been the sidekick and best friend in those steamy romance stories, helping Jordan, Lily, and Suze--all Episcopal priests--find their love in that steamy series.
But Alma's always been different. Bisexual, biracial, from the Mission in San Francisco, her story couldn't follow the same pattern. Amber deftly moves from the traditional dual point of view in third person narration to first person with Alma, diving into the mystery of what happened to her friend Cindy, and dealing with feelings for the prime suspect's sister--who happens to be a Rabbi--and her former love who is the cop investigating the murder.
I absolutely loved this story. I love how Alma is foul mouthed and not afraid to give the finger, but don't you dare take the Lord's name in vain around her. I love all of Amber's books, but Alma's story is my favorite because it's so different, and Alma is so real to me as a Baptist minister who's been known to drop some f-bombs time and again.
I love that she's now writing mysteries, and I can't wait for Alma to solve her next case!
I was given an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
But Alma's always been different. Bisexual, biracial, from the Mission in San Francisco, her story couldn't follow the same pattern. Amber deftly moves from the traditional dual point of view in third person narration to first person with Alma, diving into the mystery of what happened to her friend Cindy, and dealing with feelings for the prime suspect's sister--who happens to be a Rabbi--and her former love who is the cop investigating the murder.
I absolutely loved this story. I love how Alma is foul mouthed and not afraid to give the finger, but don't you dare take the Lord's name in vain around her. I love all of Amber's books, but Alma's story is my favorite because it's so different, and Alma is so real to me as a Baptist minister who's been known to drop some f-bombs time and again.
I love that she's now writing mysteries, and I can't wait for Alma to solve her next case!
I was given an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 18, 2018
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I had a hard time starting this review because in a way I enjoyed the book, but in some way there was a lot of excitement missing and I wished to be a little bit more entertained. However, the book is not bad and I think it's good to highlight the best parts of it!
Probably the best thing about this book is our main character - Reverend Alma Lee! She is a lovely character, an unorganized person who just can't stay away from the murder that happened a few steps outside her workplace and that beautiful rabbi she just met. It is a joy to live with Alma, trust me!
It's a cozy mystery for a nice rainy day. Although not very suspenseful, our murder had a lot of suspects, missing pieces, and a great conclusion.
But that being said, sometimes it felt like the book was really trying to push some subjects onto the readers. I am a big fan of LGBTQ representation, but I don't think a way to represent it more in books is to mention it on every page - plus I felt like there was no chemistry between our reverend and her rabbi. And books should be more about show than tell, right? Same with the veganism! It felt forced and I am not sure that is helpful. Although anything is better than no representation, right? Hmm... this sounds like a nice subject for a book discussion!
I had a hard time starting this review because in a way I enjoyed the book, but in some way there was a lot of excitement missing and I wished to be a little bit more entertained. However, the book is not bad and I think it's good to highlight the best parts of it!
Probably the best thing about this book is our main character - Reverend Alma Lee! She is a lovely character, an unorganized person who just can't stay away from the murder that happened a few steps outside her workplace and that beautiful rabbi she just met. It is a joy to live with Alma, trust me!
It's a cozy mystery for a nice rainy day. Although not very suspenseful, our murder had a lot of suspects, missing pieces, and a great conclusion.
But that being said, sometimes it felt like the book was really trying to push some subjects onto the readers. I am a big fan of LGBTQ representation, but I don't think a way to represent it more in books is to mention it on every page - plus I felt like there was no chemistry between our reverend and her rabbi. And books should be more about show than tell, right? Same with the veganism! It felt forced and I am not sure that is helpful. Although anything is better than no representation, right? Hmm... this sounds like a nice subject for a book discussion!
September 1, 2018
All Things is overall a great read. It's different from your typical cozy mystery and you realize it right away as you are introduced to Alma Lee-- a priest in a gay bar. The characters are diverse, the motives are complicated and I appreciate the layers of tension through the book.
As Alma works to solve her friend's murder, she grapples with the complexity of her own sexuality between her ex-boyfriend and her new female, rabbi crush. I love Alama's intelligence, her drive and her genuine desire to take care of those around her. The activist element of the book is awesome, too. You really see a well-rounded person who cares about the world.
The murder mystery is well developed with plenty of red herrings and though it resolves a little too quickly all at once at the end, the story holds up, which is no easy task! The sexual tension between Alma and her ex-boyfriend is great and definitely had me shipping that relationship. In contrast, the sexual tension with the rabbi never jumped off the page. I would have liked to have seen that amped up so that it was more difficult to see who she should really end up choosing.
Overall, this book is definitely worth reading!
Note: A Arc of this book was provided in exchange for a review.
As Alma works to solve her friend's murder, she grapples with the complexity of her own sexuality between her ex-boyfriend and her new female, rabbi crush. I love Alama's intelligence, her drive and her genuine desire to take care of those around her. The activist element of the book is awesome, too. You really see a well-rounded person who cares about the world.
The murder mystery is well developed with plenty of red herrings and though it resolves a little too quickly all at once at the end, the story holds up, which is no easy task! The sexual tension between Alma and her ex-boyfriend is great and definitely had me shipping that relationship. In contrast, the sexual tension with the rabbi never jumped off the page. I would have liked to have seen that amped up so that it was more difficult to see who she should really end up choosing.
Overall, this book is definitely worth reading!
Note: A Arc of this book was provided in exchange for a review.
September 13, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and Amber Belldene for an ARC ebook copy to review. As always, an honest review from me.
The book starts out with a lesbian Reverend at a bar. And no, that's not the beginning of a politically incorrect joke. All Things centers around Alma, a Reverend at the local church. We are along for all the drama that's happening in her life these days. The book is primarily a murder mystery with veganism, modern day religion, and LGBTQIA+ representation playing a significant secondary role in this unique book.
The characters and inclusivity were the best part. I wanted to keep reading about some of these characters no matter the plot. The character development throughout was good too. Inclusivity and representation of people in non traditional churches is refreshing as well.
However the murder mystery was only okay. It kept me guessing, but I wasn't as pulled into the mystery as I would have liked. Also there were so many references to veganism. To be clear, I have nothing against veganism, but the references weren't subtle. Way too much telling instead of showing. The repetitiveness of telling us she's vegan became annoying after awhile.
Overall, an enjoyable unique murder mystery that has a little something for everyone.
The book starts out with a lesbian Reverend at a bar. And no, that's not the beginning of a politically incorrect joke. All Things centers around Alma, a Reverend at the local church. We are along for all the drama that's happening in her life these days. The book is primarily a murder mystery with veganism, modern day religion, and LGBTQIA+ representation playing a significant secondary role in this unique book.
The characters and inclusivity were the best part. I wanted to keep reading about some of these characters no matter the plot. The character development throughout was good too. Inclusivity and representation of people in non traditional churches is refreshing as well.
However the murder mystery was only okay. It kept me guessing, but I wasn't as pulled into the mystery as I would have liked. Also there were so many references to veganism. To be clear, I have nothing against veganism, but the references weren't subtle. Way too much telling instead of showing. The repetitiveness of telling us she's vegan became annoying after awhile.
Overall, an enjoyable unique murder mystery that has a little something for everyone.
September 9, 2018
(Review cross-posted from my blog. The author provided me with a review copy.)
I love clergy mysteries - Cadfael, Clare Fergusson, Max Tudor - so I was very excited to get an early look at All Things, the first in Amber Belldene's new series about Reverend Alma Lee, an Episcopal priest in San Francisco's Mission District. Alma is a refreshingly new kind of priest-detective: she's bisexual (and interested in both men and women on the page, not just in theory) and biracial (her father is Chinese-American and her mother is Latina), and her sexuality and cultural heritage definitely affect the way she approaches both her ministry and her crime-solving. I found Alma's personality a little frustrating at times - she's always late and doesn't understand the point of to do lists! - but that's more a me issue, and her focus on social justice was great.
Alma gets pulled into her first mystery when her longtime friend, the owner of a just-gone-out-of-business lesbian bar across the street from Alma's church, is murdered. Both Alma's police detective ex-boyfriend and her new female rabbi crush wind up involved in the case, along with others from Alma's church and social circle, which both provides Alma with an excuse to get involved and offers a nice introduction to her world and her past. The mystery itself is a little thin, and experienced mystery readers will probably figure out whodunnit pretty early. But this one is still worth a read for the interesting characters and the world it creates, and I'll definitely try the next in the series.
I love clergy mysteries - Cadfael, Clare Fergusson, Max Tudor - so I was very excited to get an early look at All Things, the first in Amber Belldene's new series about Reverend Alma Lee, an Episcopal priest in San Francisco's Mission District. Alma is a refreshingly new kind of priest-detective: she's bisexual (and interested in both men and women on the page, not just in theory) and biracial (her father is Chinese-American and her mother is Latina), and her sexuality and cultural heritage definitely affect the way she approaches both her ministry and her crime-solving. I found Alma's personality a little frustrating at times - she's always late and doesn't understand the point of to do lists! - but that's more a me issue, and her focus on social justice was great.
Alma gets pulled into her first mystery when her longtime friend, the owner of a just-gone-out-of-business lesbian bar across the street from Alma's church, is murdered. Both Alma's police detective ex-boyfriend and her new female rabbi crush wind up involved in the case, along with others from Alma's church and social circle, which both provides Alma with an excuse to get involved and offers a nice introduction to her world and her past. The mystery itself is a little thin, and experienced mystery readers will probably figure out whodunnit pretty early. But this one is still worth a read for the interesting characters and the world it creates, and I'll definitely try the next in the series.
September 16, 2018
Lots of potential here and if/when further books in this series are published I suspect I will read them, despite a few flaws in the ointment in this first instalment.
Even though I myself am I total atheist I am always interested when fiction writers bring religion into their works as it's such a powerful motivator for human endeavours. (I also love it when writers allude to or mirror the language and language patterns of religions texts, e.g. Ann McMan, Philip Pullman, William Blake). While Ms Belldene isn't quite at their level, having a Protestant minister in a relationship with a Rabbi does throw up some interesting questions. The murder mystery itself is a bit meh (I correctly picked the perpetrator far too early on for my liking) the investigation does allow Alma to 'show' us around her part of San Francisco, which is pretty cool.
Not brilliant but a curiosity I suppose!
Even though I myself am I total atheist I am always interested when fiction writers bring religion into their works as it's such a powerful motivator for human endeavours. (I also love it when writers allude to or mirror the language and language patterns of religions texts, e.g. Ann McMan, Philip Pullman, William Blake). While Ms Belldene isn't quite at their level, having a Protestant minister in a relationship with a Rabbi does throw up some interesting questions. The murder mystery itself is a bit meh (I correctly picked the perpetrator far too early on for my liking) the investigation does allow Alma to 'show' us around her part of San Francisco, which is pretty cool.
Not brilliant but a curiosity I suppose!
August 16, 2018
I really liked how this book started. The cast of characters was the most diverse I have ever read (which probably doesn't compliment the state of publishing in general) and I liked Alma's voice. The book had a very relaxed and cozy feel to it.
I was enjoying reading the story until about half way through when Alma's personality truly started to grate me. I'm basically Ms. Punctuality and since Alma was... well, not, I just couldn't stand her and her forgetfullness all of a sudden. Also I suspected the situation with the love interest was heading exactly where it eventually did and I really couldn't ship that relationship either.
So as a reading experience this was a bit of a mixed bag. I'm not sure I'll pick up the next in series. We'll see.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
I was enjoying reading the story until about half way through when Alma's personality truly started to grate me. I'm basically Ms. Punctuality and since Alma was... well, not, I just couldn't stand her and her forgetfullness all of a sudden. Also I suspected the situation with the love interest was heading exactly where it eventually did and I really couldn't ship that relationship either.
So as a reading experience this was a bit of a mixed bag. I'm not sure I'll pick up the next in series. We'll see.
I received an ARC through NetGalley in exchange of an honest review.
September 9, 2018
I really enjoyed "All Things" and look forward to reading more about Rev. Alma Lee. I found it to be a fun, quick read. The mystery left me searching for the culprit, and I really had no idea who the culprit was until the very end.
I loved the way the mystery and romance storylines intersected. I found it to be a fresh and exciting read. I would have liked a little more character development, though. I'm still trying to get a clearer idea of who Alma and the rest of the characters are. However, I hope to learn more about them in future adventures with Alma.
I would totally recommend this book to anyone who loves a good mystery, a strong female lead character, and a refreshing take on the life of a female priest. I did not want to put this book down and I look forward to reading more about Rev. Alma Lee.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2018
I haven't read a mystery in a long time but I liked Amber Belldene's Hot Under the Collar romance series so thought I'd try this one out. I loved it!! The main character was a minor character in the other series and it was great to see her developed. There is a bit of a romantic subplot but it's not really resolved and I'm kind of keen to follow this character through several books. (The problem with romance is that once the book is done, there really isn't a story left for that character.) The mystery was interesting and the twists in the whodunnit were good. Characters are what really interest me, and there were good ones in here. The relationships were interesting. I look forward to more of this series.
February 8, 2019
Pros: Very good mystery. The neighborhood felt real--I've never been to San Francisco, but I live in a major city on the east coast and I rarely see the diversity I experience in my daily life reflected in any media without feeling tokenized or forced. This felt natural.
Cons: The main character is a little TOO much--it's hard to imagine how someone on this level of organization/spontaneous dropping-of-everything managed to finish school. Also, while this book was PRETTY GAY, I was kind of disappointed in the ending. Still, there is very little bisexual representation in media, so it's going to be a good thing for a lot of people.
Cons: The main character is a little TOO much--it's hard to imagine how someone on this level of organization/spontaneous dropping-of-everything managed to finish school. Also, while this book was PRETTY GAY, I was kind of disappointed in the ending. Still, there is very little bisexual representation in media, so it's going to be a good thing for a lot of people.
June 3, 2019
The book was ok. Alma the main character is a pastor and is part of the LGBTQ community and she seems to fall in love very quickly and she doesn't take time to explore anything. She gets thrown into a murder investigation and she drops everything to include her job and tries to solve it all by herself knowing consequences could be deadly for herself and others but it doesn't stop her. There are a few red herrings but I figured out what was going on pretty quickly. It was a pretty good book and maybe the author can develop Alma a little more to make her more believable and likable. Received this book as an ARC, gave my honest review.
December 18, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Alma is a fantastic character, and the mystery was truly well done. If you are here looking for romance, though, there isn't much of it. That wasn't a problem for me, although I know it might be for others.
What really got me, is Alma. She's the kind of character I love: kind-hearted but strong, decided to be 'all things' :D I simply love her. I like that her faith is part of her life, and being a priest is something so integral to who she is as the fact that she is bi-racial, bisexual and a woman.
I will keep reading/listening to this series :D
Tiana Hanson does an excellent job with the narration.
What really got me, is Alma. She's the kind of character I love: kind-hearted but strong, decided to be 'all things' :D I simply love her. I like that her faith is part of her life, and being a priest is something so integral to who she is as the fact that she is bi-racial, bisexual and a woman.
I will keep reading/listening to this series :D
Tiana Hanson does an excellent job with the narration.
April 6, 2021
So I like the main character, I like the main love interest. The book's view on cops is not hot. Like, when you examine power structures and the various reasons why you want to fight for the poor and homeless and people who are being priced out of their neighborhoods doing so while just uncritically supporting the police is basically not examining any of those power structures. I also don't like the way the romance angle is written up. It gets too close to my major 'just talk to each other' turnoff.
But overall the book is an enjoyable read.
But overall the book is an enjoyable read.
July 27, 2019
I gave this title my best shot and just didn't get going with it. I like quirky mysteries that look at contemporary issues through the lens of the genre. My issue here was that this title was just too "cozy." Lots of bonding among characters, but not real development in the mystery itself by 30% of the way through. If you want a queer version of Diane Mott Davidson, this will be exactly the right series for you. If you're more edgy, skip it.
August 8, 2020
As a seminary graduate it was encouraging to read about a woman priest who's written in such a human manner; not perfect, a person with desires and a genuine heart for her community and those who attend her church. The murder mystery was a plus, giving me access to Alma's personality through her dialogue and walking the streets for clarity and understanding. A wonderful read and I had to get the other book to continue the story.
November 6, 2020
I thought this worked as a cozy mystery, and I'd read another. I liked the easy integration of faith into the story, and I loved the callouts to the Clare Ferguson mysteries. I didn't like one of the character "quirks," though. A disorganized person who routinely misses meetings without apology or explanation is being very selfish with others' time. I have loved Belldene's romance writing, but I thought maybe the sort of romantic subplot(s) was shoehorned in.
September 10, 2018
I really enjoyed this book, though I enjoy everything I read from Amber Belldene! I couldn't' put it down.
I appreciated the building of suspense within a romantic story... I'm eager to see if there's another book to follow this story further.
I love the way the author challenges traditional romance/mystery/church/clergy ideas. I can't wait to read more from Amber Belldene!
I appreciated the building of suspense within a romantic story... I'm eager to see if there's another book to follow this story further.
I love the way the author challenges traditional romance/mystery/church/clergy ideas. I can't wait to read more from Amber Belldene!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews