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Reverend Annabelle Dixon #1-4
The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries: Books 1-4
★★★★★ “If you want to read great UK-based, clean, clever, fun ‘cozies’, it’s difficult to find anything better.”
Murder. Mayhem. A madcap lady vicar with a taste for sweets…
Meet Reverend Annabelle Dixon… Charming, slightly gauche, very tall, this thirty-something vicar has just been appointed to the pastoral St. Mary’s Church, in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary, Cornwall, England.
As Annabelle faithfully ministers her quaint parish, trouble seems to follow in her footsteps. Instead of her beloved tea and cake, she is regularly served a heaping plate of murder. Now if only she could have a second helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls…
You'll love this cozy series because everyone loves mysteries with comedy, great food, and intrigue.
**These books are clean, cozy mysteries that contain no swearing or graphic descriptions of violence or bedroom activities.**
This digital box set contains the first four mysteries in this bestselling
Death at the Café: Reverend Annabelle Dixon is not your typical vicar. Her passion and dedication to her calling are matched only by her weakness for cakes and sweets. But when Annabelle makes plans to meet her old friend Sister Mary, she has no idea that she will soon find herself embroiled in a deadly mystery. This quick-thinking, quick-footed holy woman must piece together the clues, pacify a dogged detective, and find a killer… before she and her friend both wind up in jail.
Murder at the Trouble arises for Annabelle Dixon when she visits a newcomer hoping to welcome him to her flock and to dispel rumors of shady happenings at his mansion. But instead of a chat over tea and cake, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder, and another helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Body in the When a young boy running through the woods unearths a buried human bone, a cold case is soon re-opened. And Reverend Annabelle Dixon, with her insatiable appetite for mystery and crime, simply can’t leave it alone. But first, she’ll need a double helping of cake to set her mental gears spinning… What will she do next?
Grave in the When her beloved Mini Cooper breaks down in the countryside, Reverend Annabelle Dixon is forced to make a stop at Mildred’s Garage. But instead of a quick tune-up, she stumbles upon a gruesome surprise… a lifeless hand, peeking out from beneath a parked car. Can Annabelle find the killer before the killer finds her? And can her cute canine friend put the inspector in a better mood?
If you like quaint English towns, fun and colorful characters, a strong, yet compassionate female lead, and a hint of romance, then you’ll love this boxed set of four deliciously devious cozy mysteries.
Buy this set today and get ready to smile all afternoon long!
What readers are
★★★★★ “This cozy series is a riot!”
★★★★★ “A perfect weekend read.”
★★★★★ “Annabelle reminds me of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple.”
★★★★★ “This series keeps getting better and better.”
★★★★★ “As a former village vicar, this ticks the box for me.
Murder. Mayhem. A madcap lady vicar with a taste for sweets…
Meet Reverend Annabelle Dixon… Charming, slightly gauche, very tall, this thirty-something vicar has just been appointed to the pastoral St. Mary’s Church, in the picturesque village of Upton St. Mary, Cornwall, England.
As Annabelle faithfully ministers her quaint parish, trouble seems to follow in her footsteps. Instead of her beloved tea and cake, she is regularly served a heaping plate of murder. Now if only she could have a second helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls…
You'll love this cozy series because everyone loves mysteries with comedy, great food, and intrigue.
**These books are clean, cozy mysteries that contain no swearing or graphic descriptions of violence or bedroom activities.**
This digital box set contains the first four mysteries in this bestselling
Death at the Café: Reverend Annabelle Dixon is not your typical vicar. Her passion and dedication to her calling are matched only by her weakness for cakes and sweets. But when Annabelle makes plans to meet her old friend Sister Mary, she has no idea that she will soon find herself embroiled in a deadly mystery. This quick-thinking, quick-footed holy woman must piece together the clues, pacify a dogged detective, and find a killer… before she and her friend both wind up in jail.
Murder at the Trouble arises for Annabelle Dixon when she visits a newcomer hoping to welcome him to her flock and to dispel rumors of shady happenings at his mansion. But instead of a chat over tea and cake, Annabelle is served a heaping plate of murder, and another helping of handsome Inspector Mike Nicholls!
Body in the When a young boy running through the woods unearths a buried human bone, a cold case is soon re-opened. And Reverend Annabelle Dixon, with her insatiable appetite for mystery and crime, simply can’t leave it alone. But first, she’ll need a double helping of cake to set her mental gears spinning… What will she do next?
Grave in the When her beloved Mini Cooper breaks down in the countryside, Reverend Annabelle Dixon is forced to make a stop at Mildred’s Garage. But instead of a quick tune-up, she stumbles upon a gruesome surprise… a lifeless hand, peeking out from beneath a parked car. Can Annabelle find the killer before the killer finds her? And can her cute canine friend put the inspector in a better mood?
If you like quaint English towns, fun and colorful characters, a strong, yet compassionate female lead, and a hint of romance, then you’ll love this boxed set of four deliciously devious cozy mysteries.
Buy this set today and get ready to smile all afternoon long!
What readers are
★★★★★ “This cozy series is a riot!”
★★★★★ “A perfect weekend read.”
★★★★★ “Annabelle reminds me of Agatha Christie’s Miss Marple.”
★★★★★ “This series keeps getting better and better.”
★★★★★ “As a former village vicar, this ticks the box for me.
760 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2018
883 people are currently reading
71 people want to read
About the author
Alison Golden
103 books332 followersAlison Golden is the USA Today bestselling author of the Inspector David Graham mysteries, a traditional British detective series, and two cozy mystery series featuring main characters Reverend Annabelle Dixon and Roxy Reinhardt. As A. J. Golden, she writes the Diana Hunter thriller series.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
Alison was raised in Bedfordshire, England. Her aim is to write stories that are designed to entertain, amuse, and calm. Her approach is to combine creative ideas with excellent writing and edit, edit, edit. Alison’s mission is simple: To write excellent books that have readers clamoring for more.
Alison is based in the San Francisco Bay Area with her husband and twin sons. She splits her time between London and San Francisco.
To receive three free books, updates about new releases, exclusive promotions, and other insider information, sign up at: http://www.alisongolden.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
October 2, 2023
These are nice clean cozies. They are somewhat simplistic and predictable. I thought they were ok. They were not the best cozies I've ever read but I didn't hate them. Body in the Woods, the third book was my favorite of the four because it had a more complex plot. I've heard that the series gets better in later books so I'll probably give them a try at some point.
December 5, 2018
Book 1 - Death at the Cafe
Reverend Annabelle Dixon has been assigned to St. Clement's Church in London. Her mentor, Father John, has his doubts about her ability to survive in the tough environment. She set his mind at ease with her determination and upbeat personality. One problem that she can't seem to overcome is the London Public Transit system. She has little choice but to use the system to go meet Sister Mary, a childhood friend, who is also a Catholic Nun visiting from West Africa. When she arrives at the local cafe where she they are to meet, she notices a crowd surrounding a woman lying dead next to an outside table of the cafe. Sister Mary was among the crowd with a shocked expression on her face. The woman had died practically at her feet. Evidently, Mary has a history of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, earning the nickname of "The Accidental Nun".
When Mary remembers a note passed to her by the dead woman, they go to see the lady mentioned in the note. When the second lady also dies in the presence of Mary and Annabelle, Detective Inspector Cutcliffe immediately suspects the two women of both murders and feels he has enough evidence to hold them.
Can Annabelle keep herself and Mary out of jail and discover the real culprit? Can she convince DI Cutcliffe of their innocence?
Book 2 - Murder at the Mansion
Reverend Annabelle Dixon has relocated from London to the quaint countryside town of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England. She has been the vicar here for about 3 years and has become a beloved member of the community. When Sir John Cartwright buys a secluded mansion in the area, rumors of shady dealings pop up. On her first visit to welcome Sir John to the community, a young lady informs her that Sir John is meditating and would be available in about an hour. Upon her return, the same girl answers the door. When they hear a scream, they both rush to find the source of the problem. Upon entering the master bedroom, Annabelle finds Sir John dead with an arrow through his chest. As starts to call the police, she realizes that the young girl has disappeared. The local Constable, Jim Raven, is not familiar with investigating murder and calls in the more experienced Inspector Nicholls from a nearby town.
Why did the young girl run away? Where did she go? Why was Sir Cartwright killed? Who killed him? Can Annabelle and Inspector Nicholls solve the mystery?
Book 3 - Body in the Woods
While running home from school, Dougie Dewar trips over something sticking out of the ground. It was not a tree root as he initially thought and he is worried that he will be in trouble for tearing his good school clothes. He goes to his aunt's house to tell her what he had found, but Aunt Shona is hesitant to believe him, given Dougie's wild imagination. He finally convinces her to hear him out. There have been a lot of strange happenings around the village lately and Inspector Nicholls is in a very irritable mood. Philippa, the church secretary, is also very somber and refuses to talk about the latest gossip. It seems that the body that Dougie tripped over has been there for many years, forcing Inspector Nicholls to re-open a very old cold case. With the Inspector's dour mood and a general lack of gossip in town, Annabelle has to find other sources to help figure out the puzzle. Her initial efforts yield conflicting stories, forcing Annabelle to admit that she has her work cut out for her if she hopes to solve this mystery.
What is bothering Philippa and Inspector Nicholls? Who is the person who was buried in the woods? Will Annabelle be able to solve the mystery?
Book 4 - Grave in the Garage
Reverend Annabelle is driving her Mini toward Folly's Bottom, when it suddenly dies. Walking back to town, she gets a ride from Alfred Roper. When they reach the garage, she discovers Mildred Smith dead under a car in one of the service pits. Ted and Aziz, two employees who work for Mildred, are also missing. Annabelle learns that both men have been missing since Friday afternoon when Mildred was killed. Inspector Nicholls locates Ted and tries to question him, but Ted refuses to say anything about where he has been and claims he knows nothing about Mildred's death. Reverend Annabelle finally gets Ted to admit to being involved with a gambling ring, but Inspector Nicholls can't see how this relates to the murder. Finally Aziz is found, but he has been badly beaten and is hospitalized. He is unable to be questioned at this time.
Who killed Mildred? Is her murder connected to the gambling ring? If so, how? Why was Aziz severely beaten? Is the killer the same person who beat up Aziz?
The Reverend Annabelle Dixon stories are interesting books with believable characters and realistic situations. You also get a better understanding of the English people in a everyday setting. Great series!
Reverend Annabelle Dixon has been assigned to St. Clement's Church in London. Her mentor, Father John, has his doubts about her ability to survive in the tough environment. She set his mind at ease with her determination and upbeat personality. One problem that she can't seem to overcome is the London Public Transit system. She has little choice but to use the system to go meet Sister Mary, a childhood friend, who is also a Catholic Nun visiting from West Africa. When she arrives at the local cafe where she they are to meet, she notices a crowd surrounding a woman lying dead next to an outside table of the cafe. Sister Mary was among the crowd with a shocked expression on her face. The woman had died practically at her feet. Evidently, Mary has a history of being in the wrong place at the wrong time, earning the nickname of "The Accidental Nun".
When Mary remembers a note passed to her by the dead woman, they go to see the lady mentioned in the note. When the second lady also dies in the presence of Mary and Annabelle, Detective Inspector Cutcliffe immediately suspects the two women of both murders and feels he has enough evidence to hold them.
Can Annabelle keep herself and Mary out of jail and discover the real culprit? Can she convince DI Cutcliffe of their innocence?
Book 2 - Murder at the Mansion
Reverend Annabelle Dixon has relocated from London to the quaint countryside town of Upton St. Mary in Cornwall, England. She has been the vicar here for about 3 years and has become a beloved member of the community. When Sir John Cartwright buys a secluded mansion in the area, rumors of shady dealings pop up. On her first visit to welcome Sir John to the community, a young lady informs her that Sir John is meditating and would be available in about an hour. Upon her return, the same girl answers the door. When they hear a scream, they both rush to find the source of the problem. Upon entering the master bedroom, Annabelle finds Sir John dead with an arrow through his chest. As starts to call the police, she realizes that the young girl has disappeared. The local Constable, Jim Raven, is not familiar with investigating murder and calls in the more experienced Inspector Nicholls from a nearby town.
Why did the young girl run away? Where did she go? Why was Sir Cartwright killed? Who killed him? Can Annabelle and Inspector Nicholls solve the mystery?
Book 3 - Body in the Woods
While running home from school, Dougie Dewar trips over something sticking out of the ground. It was not a tree root as he initially thought and he is worried that he will be in trouble for tearing his good school clothes. He goes to his aunt's house to tell her what he had found, but Aunt Shona is hesitant to believe him, given Dougie's wild imagination. He finally convinces her to hear him out. There have been a lot of strange happenings around the village lately and Inspector Nicholls is in a very irritable mood. Philippa, the church secretary, is also very somber and refuses to talk about the latest gossip. It seems that the body that Dougie tripped over has been there for many years, forcing Inspector Nicholls to re-open a very old cold case. With the Inspector's dour mood and a general lack of gossip in town, Annabelle has to find other sources to help figure out the puzzle. Her initial efforts yield conflicting stories, forcing Annabelle to admit that she has her work cut out for her if she hopes to solve this mystery.
What is bothering Philippa and Inspector Nicholls? Who is the person who was buried in the woods? Will Annabelle be able to solve the mystery?
Book 4 - Grave in the Garage
Reverend Annabelle is driving her Mini toward Folly's Bottom, when it suddenly dies. Walking back to town, she gets a ride from Alfred Roper. When they reach the garage, she discovers Mildred Smith dead under a car in one of the service pits. Ted and Aziz, two employees who work for Mildred, are also missing. Annabelle learns that both men have been missing since Friday afternoon when Mildred was killed. Inspector Nicholls locates Ted and tries to question him, but Ted refuses to say anything about where he has been and claims he knows nothing about Mildred's death. Reverend Annabelle finally gets Ted to admit to being involved with a gambling ring, but Inspector Nicholls can't see how this relates to the murder. Finally Aziz is found, but he has been badly beaten and is hospitalized. He is unable to be questioned at this time.
Who killed Mildred? Is her murder connected to the gambling ring? If so, how? Why was Aziz severely beaten? Is the killer the same person who beat up Aziz?
The Reverend Annabelle Dixon stories are interesting books with believable characters and realistic situations. You also get a better understanding of the English people in a everyday setting. Great series!
April 19, 2020
Review:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of the England based series The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries: Books 1-4 (The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Series Boxset) by Alison Golden and this review was given freely. An eclectic mix of colorful characters, mysteries and murder set in England that contain a bit of romance and ends with some popular dessert recipes.
Death at the Café:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of the England based series The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 1: Death at a Cafe by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Starts a bit slow with a history lesson but is ultimately intriguing, complex and action packed with a dynamic and outspoken Reverend Annabelle Dixon who finds herself in the middle of multiple murders and a mystery which she solves despite the interference of the police.
Murder at the Mansion:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 2: Murder at the Mansion by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Down to earth colorful characters,small town rumors, vivid and at times flowery descriptions, a elaborate murder mystery, and a hint of romance.
Trouble arises when Annabelle Dixon goes to Woodlands Manor to welcome Sir John Cartwright to the Upton ST. Mary Parish only to find him dead in his bedroom with a arrow in his heart and a mysteriously disappearing girl necessitating the involvement of the local laid back, mischievous Constable Jim Raven and Truro's Inspector Mike Nicholls.
Body in the Woods:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 3:Body in the Woods by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Eclectic characters like the outspoken Phillipa, the socially awkward anthropologist Dr.Robert Brownson, the easily irritated Inspector Nicholls, and the dessert loving, curious and at times persistent Reverend add color to the pages filled with rambling descriptions and conversations,multiple mysteries which are entwined with multiple love triangles, a murder, and a love match.
When eight year old Dougie Dewar trips over a skeleton in the woods of Upton ST. Mary, Detective Mike Nicholls tries to keep the quick witted Reverend Annabelle away from the investigation but town gossip situates her perfectly to solve the twenty year old murder case.
Grave in the Garage:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 4: Grave in the Garage by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Suspenseful and action packed involving a few twist, puppies, and some surprises. As Reverend Annabelle laments the reduction in church funds and her friendship with Inspector Mike deepens, Phillia's matchmaking escalates, and the village of Upton ST. Mary experiences another murder as well as a secret gambling ring.
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of the England based series The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries: Books 1-4 (The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Series Boxset) by Alison Golden and this review was given freely. An eclectic mix of colorful characters, mysteries and murder set in England that contain a bit of romance and ends with some popular dessert recipes.
Death at the Café:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of the England based series The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 1: Death at a Cafe by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Starts a bit slow with a history lesson but is ultimately intriguing, complex and action packed with a dynamic and outspoken Reverend Annabelle Dixon who finds herself in the middle of multiple murders and a mystery which she solves despite the interference of the police.
Murder at the Mansion:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 2: Murder at the Mansion by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Down to earth colorful characters,small town rumors, vivid and at times flowery descriptions, a elaborate murder mystery, and a hint of romance.
Trouble arises when Annabelle Dixon goes to Woodlands Manor to welcome Sir John Cartwright to the Upton ST. Mary Parish only to find him dead in his bedroom with a arrow in his heart and a mysteriously disappearing girl necessitating the involvement of the local laid back, mischievous Constable Jim Raven and Truro's Inspector Mike Nicholls.
Body in the Woods:
4 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 3:Body in the Woods by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Eclectic characters like the outspoken Phillipa, the socially awkward anthropologist Dr.Robert Brownson, the easily irritated Inspector Nicholls, and the dessert loving, curious and at times persistent Reverend add color to the pages filled with rambling descriptions and conversations,multiple mysteries which are entwined with multiple love triangles, a murder, and a love match.
When eight year old Dougie Dewar trips over a skeleton in the woods of Upton ST. Mary, Detective Mike Nicholls tries to keep the quick witted Reverend Annabelle away from the investigation but town gossip situates her perfectly to solve the twenty year old murder case.
Grave in the Garage:
5 stars
I have purchased a copy of The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries Book 4: Grave in the Garage by Alison Golden and this review was given freely.
Suspenseful and action packed involving a few twist, puppies, and some surprises. As Reverend Annabelle laments the reduction in church funds and her friendship with Inspector Mike deepens, Phillia's matchmaking escalates, and the village of Upton ST. Mary experiences another murder as well as a secret gambling ring.
September 24, 2023
It's been many years since I first read "Death At The Cafe" and started on this wonderful journey with Reverand Annabelle Dixon. So it's been equally as wonderful to have these characters brought to life while I listened to the audio books in "The Reverand Annabelle Dixon Mysteries: Books 1-4 in the Reverand Annabelle Dixon Collection Book 1"
Here's a bit about each story.
1. Death At The Cafe - We get to know our cake-loving Reverand Annabelle Dixon as she's reluctantly starting her first assignment in London. She wanted a peaceful rural village but because of the shortage, she agreed to this.
As Annabelle arrived at the cafe to have tea with her life-long friend Mary, she saw a woman lying on the ground. Before the paramedics got there, a doctor walked up to check the woman's pulse but then he disappeared. Mary realized the woman had handed her a note.
Annabelle and Mary can't help but follow the clues and enjoy as much cake as they can along the way as they try to solve this mystery.
2. Murder At The Mansion - It is now Annabelle's third year and she's in the rural village of Upton St. Mary. She loves driving her royal blue mini-cooper, still loves cake and loves being Vicar of St. Mary's. She has won over the villagers.
Phillipa, the church secretary, began gossiping about a new person, John Cartwright, who moved into Woodlands Manor. Annabelle decided to do a welcome visit. As a blonde woman opened the door, they heard a scream. When they went upstairs, a door was locked so the blonde went for a key but never came back. Annabelle got the door open and what did she find?
There's a great cast of characters including Inspector Mike Nicols and Constable Jim Raven along with Biscuit who is the church's cat and appears to be gaining weight.
3. Body In The Woods - Master Douglas (Dougie) Dewer- age 8- was having a tough week. He had quite an imagination...pretending to be an adventurer and determined to save civilization. But on his way home from school on a Friday, he tripped and went flying. When he realized he tripped over a bone, Dougie ran home to his Aunt Shona who he's staying with while his mom is having chemo treatments, and told her what happened. Along with Inspector Mike Nicols and Constable Raven, Dougie and his Aunt Shona unearthed an elbow.
Reverand Annabelle visited Shona and Dougie. Shona mentioned that Louisia Montgomery's sister, Lucy, has been missing and presumed dead for 20 years. It looks like Reverand Annabelle has another mystery to solve.
4. Grave In The Garage - Reverand Annabelle is walking around the cemetary at St. Mary's without her usual feeling of peace and tranquility. The cemetary needs an expensive redo but after three fundraisers, there's still not enough money. After visiting with Jeremy (he's been the church organist for six months), Reverand Annabelle decided to go for a drive in her mini-cooper. It started making noises and then eventually stopped so she got a ride to Mildred's Garage. It was unusually quiet. Annabelle looked around and saw what looked like a hand then she realized it was Mildred who was very still.
What's going on in Upton St. Mary? Is Mildred's death a part of something much bigger? Who would benefit from her death? And why are many families having financial troubles?
Reverand Annabelle Dixon is brought to life by Penny Scott-Andrews who does a beautiful job as narrator. Thanks so much to Alison Golden for giving me the opportunity to listen and review. I highly recommend this special series with characters who feel like friends.
Here's a bit about each story.
1. Death At The Cafe - We get to know our cake-loving Reverand Annabelle Dixon as she's reluctantly starting her first assignment in London. She wanted a peaceful rural village but because of the shortage, she agreed to this.
As Annabelle arrived at the cafe to have tea with her life-long friend Mary, she saw a woman lying on the ground. Before the paramedics got there, a doctor walked up to check the woman's pulse but then he disappeared. Mary realized the woman had handed her a note.
Annabelle and Mary can't help but follow the clues and enjoy as much cake as they can along the way as they try to solve this mystery.
2. Murder At The Mansion - It is now Annabelle's third year and she's in the rural village of Upton St. Mary. She loves driving her royal blue mini-cooper, still loves cake and loves being Vicar of St. Mary's. She has won over the villagers.
Phillipa, the church secretary, began gossiping about a new person, John Cartwright, who moved into Woodlands Manor. Annabelle decided to do a welcome visit. As a blonde woman opened the door, they heard a scream. When they went upstairs, a door was locked so the blonde went for a key but never came back. Annabelle got the door open and what did she find?
There's a great cast of characters including Inspector Mike Nicols and Constable Jim Raven along with Biscuit who is the church's cat and appears to be gaining weight.
3. Body In The Woods - Master Douglas (Dougie) Dewer- age 8- was having a tough week. He had quite an imagination...pretending to be an adventurer and determined to save civilization. But on his way home from school on a Friday, he tripped and went flying. When he realized he tripped over a bone, Dougie ran home to his Aunt Shona who he's staying with while his mom is having chemo treatments, and told her what happened. Along with Inspector Mike Nicols and Constable Raven, Dougie and his Aunt Shona unearthed an elbow.
Reverand Annabelle visited Shona and Dougie. Shona mentioned that Louisia Montgomery's sister, Lucy, has been missing and presumed dead for 20 years. It looks like Reverand Annabelle has another mystery to solve.
4. Grave In The Garage - Reverand Annabelle is walking around the cemetary at St. Mary's without her usual feeling of peace and tranquility. The cemetary needs an expensive redo but after three fundraisers, there's still not enough money. After visiting with Jeremy (he's been the church organist for six months), Reverand Annabelle decided to go for a drive in her mini-cooper. It started making noises and then eventually stopped so she got a ride to Mildred's Garage. It was unusually quiet. Annabelle looked around and saw what looked like a hand then she realized it was Mildred who was very still.
What's going on in Upton St. Mary? Is Mildred's death a part of something much bigger? Who would benefit from her death? And why are many families having financial troubles?
Reverand Annabelle Dixon is brought to life by Penny Scott-Andrews who does a beautiful job as narrator. Thanks so much to Alison Golden for giving me the opportunity to listen and review. I highly recommend this special series with characters who feel like friends.
March 20, 2020
This is being counted as one book on my Goodreads account since it is a boxed set of the first four books in a wholesome cozy-mystery series.
The first book is really a prequel, introducing us to Reverend Annabelle Dixon, an Anglican pastor, who has returned home to East London after graduating seminary. She is effective and popular, but appears to be intensely curious to the point of nosy. She also has a furiously-raging sweet tooth. When two women end up dropping dead in front of her and her friend Sister Mary, who is accused of the murders, the two religious women must solve these deaths! At the end of Book One, Annabelle realizes she has always wanted to live in rural England.
So she moves to a church in Upton St. Mary, Cornwall. There she is involved in the lives of her parishioners and the the community. In the next three books, she solves various murders w/ her excellent common sense, mathematical skills, and ability to gossip alongside the best of her parishioners, w/ the help of her church secretary, Philippa, and a local police Inspector, Mike Nicholls. It looks like Nicholls is going to become Rev. Annabelle's love interest, which will set up more interesting plot lines for the future.
As Annabelle IS a church pastor, the love interest aspect is innocent, as are all the books. This is refreshing, even though I don't mind a little spice in my cozy mysteries. The books also come w/ lists of recipes for the sweet treats in which Annabelle indulges in each book. The only reason I give the boxed set only four stars is because some of the plot holes are large enough to drive Annabelle's beloved Mini Cooper right on through. BUT: I didn't know the identity of the murderers until told, which is my bar on which to judge a cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
The first book is really a prequel, introducing us to Reverend Annabelle Dixon, an Anglican pastor, who has returned home to East London after graduating seminary. She is effective and popular, but appears to be intensely curious to the point of nosy. She also has a furiously-raging sweet tooth. When two women end up dropping dead in front of her and her friend Sister Mary, who is accused of the murders, the two religious women must solve these deaths! At the end of Book One, Annabelle realizes she has always wanted to live in rural England.
So she moves to a church in Upton St. Mary, Cornwall. There she is involved in the lives of her parishioners and the the community. In the next three books, she solves various murders w/ her excellent common sense, mathematical skills, and ability to gossip alongside the best of her parishioners, w/ the help of her church secretary, Philippa, and a local police Inspector, Mike Nicholls. It looks like Nicholls is going to become Rev. Annabelle's love interest, which will set up more interesting plot lines for the future.
As Annabelle IS a church pastor, the love interest aspect is innocent, as are all the books. This is refreshing, even though I don't mind a little spice in my cozy mysteries. The books also come w/ lists of recipes for the sweet treats in which Annabelle indulges in each book. The only reason I give the boxed set only four stars is because some of the plot holes are large enough to drive Annabelle's beloved Mini Cooper right on through. BUT: I didn't know the identity of the murderers until told, which is my bar on which to judge a cozy mystery. I am looking forward to reading more books in this series.
July 28, 2023
Audiobook: This was my first experience with Alison Golden's and Jamie Vougeot's work, and it won't be my last. This collection of the first four books of "The Reverend Annabelle Dixon Cozy Mysteries" series was charming and entertaining. All of the stories were interesting, and I liked trying to solve the mystery before the culprit was revealed. As each story unfolded, I got to know and like the characters of Reverend Annabelle Dixon and her friends. I enjoyed the creative and often humorous descriptions that bubbled throughout the stories. Penny Scott-Andrews' narration was great, and her performance gave different voices to the various characters. I was given a free copy of the audiobook, and I have voluntarily posted this review.
December 6, 2018
I have read the books in this series individually and I have to say that they are amongst my favourite UK based cosy mysteries. The characters are brilliant, Annabelle herself is a very real, three dimensional, believable character, and the others are also very well written.
The plots are all clever, intriguing and have lots of red herrings thrown in to keep us guessing up to the end. The books are all great stand-alone stories, but in a collection like this, read one after the other, they are outstanding.
If you want to read great UK based, clean, clever, fun 'cosies' then it's difficult to find anything better.
The plots are all clever, intriguing and have lots of red herrings thrown in to keep us guessing up to the end. The books are all great stand-alone stories, but in a collection like this, read one after the other, they are outstanding.
If you want to read great UK based, clean, clever, fun 'cosies' then it's difficult to find anything better.
September 30, 2021
I was expecting an English cosy mystery - what a disappointment. Well, it was set in England but the spellings and recipes were American - I have no idea what a cup measures so wouldn’t be able to try the recipes even if I wanted to. I think if you want recipes you’d buy a cook book not a cosy mystery! I feel it should be made plain that a book is written in American English then I wouldn’t be annoyed when I come across an American spelling.
I felt the story was rushed and didn’t give time to get to know the main character or understand her thought processes. None of the characters came alive for me and the plot was weak. I shan’t be buying any more books by this author.
I felt the story was rushed and didn’t give time to get to know the main character or understand her thought processes. None of the characters came alive for me and the plot was weak. I shan’t be buying any more books by this author.
July 7, 2020
Ah, well, comfortable cosy
Quick, mildly amusing read. Two-dimensional characters, completely unbelievable and illogical plot with missing pieces (what was the mysterious poison and how were the darts kept frozen--trust me, that's not a spoiler). Credit for competent sentence structure and other basic writing/editing. I hoped for the Vicar of Dibley, got unrelieved Alice. Many may enjpy it more than I did, I'm not a cosy fan. In re the recipes, edible ganache has neither corn syrup nor palm oil, but the idea is very nice.
Quick, mildly amusing read. Two-dimensional characters, completely unbelievable and illogical plot with missing pieces (what was the mysterious poison and how were the darts kept frozen--trust me, that's not a spoiler). Credit for competent sentence structure and other basic writing/editing. I hoped for the Vicar of Dibley, got unrelieved Alice. Many may enjpy it more than I did, I'm not a cosy fan. In re the recipes, edible ganache has neither corn syrup nor palm oil, but the idea is very nice.
September 6, 2018
I have read these books as they came out. They are delightful. They held my interest from beginning to end. I love stories that take place in small towns. I have also read books in the Inspector David Graham and the Diana Hunter series. Each series is completely different which shows how talented Alison is. All books are well written and edited. Characters are fleshed out. Each book is a stand alone. I am so looking forward to a new Annabelle novel.
July 8, 2020
Excellent! Ten stars out of ten!
This series is so well written, it is everything a cost mystery should be and usually isn't. Reverend Annabelle Dixon is serving the Cornish parish, Upton St.Mary as their Vicar. She is tall, humorous, and optimistic. She also has a slight crush on Inspector Mike Nicholls. There is no rush to get to the mystery or uncover clues. All will be revealed. Life will happen. Read and enjoy!
This series is so well written, it is everything a cost mystery should be and usually isn't. Reverend Annabelle Dixon is serving the Cornish parish, Upton St.Mary as their Vicar. She is tall, humorous, and optimistic. She also has a slight crush on Inspector Mike Nicholls. There is no rush to get to the mystery or uncover clues. All will be revealed. Life will happen. Read and enjoy!
October 8, 2021
Marvelous Mini Mysteries
A beautiful village full of kind people provide Rev. Annabelle with a great location in which to thrive. Her optimism, intelligence, and empathy for all the villagers nurture the residents and visitors as well ! Humor and romance are splendidly sprinkled among the marvelous mysteries she helps the Inspector solve. By the end of #4, they mutually address each other as Annabelle and Mike.
A beautiful village full of kind people provide Rev. Annabelle with a great location in which to thrive. Her optimism, intelligence, and empathy for all the villagers nurture the residents and visitors as well ! Humor and romance are splendidly sprinkled among the marvelous mysteries she helps the Inspector solve. By the end of #4, they mutually address each other as Annabelle and Mike.
July 20, 2020
Hello Vicar
What a pleasure to meet Annabelle Dixon in this series. She's intelligent, funny, kind and quite the sleuth when circumstances arise. Don't be misled by the term "cosy mystery" , these are interesting stories that don't telegraph the criminal. And the budding romance is sweet.
What a pleasure to meet Annabelle Dixon in this series. She's intelligent, funny, kind and quite the sleuth when circumstances arise. Don't be misled by the term "cosy mystery" , these are interesting stories that don't telegraph the criminal. And the budding romance is sweet.
September 25, 2021
Humor and religion fight crime
Enjoy a look at fighting crime with a Reverend who is usually sunny with a good sense of humor. The Inspector is also a bit unusual along with the people of the locale. The first story is how the Reverend came to be involved with fighting crime. The others remind me of Miss Marple stories.
Enjoy a look at fighting crime with a Reverend who is usually sunny with a good sense of humor. The Inspector is also a bit unusual along with the people of the locale. The first story is how the Reverend came to be involved with fighting crime. The others remind me of Miss Marple stories.
April 9, 2020
I Love this Series!
I really enjoyed reading this set of books. The characters are fun and the plots are good! I can't wait to read the next book and hope there are many more! It reminds me of one of my favorite British TV shows Father Brown!! Well done!
I really enjoyed reading this set of books. The characters are fun and the plots are good! I can't wait to read the next book and hope there are many more! It reminds me of one of my favorite British TV shows Father Brown!! Well done!
September 5, 2018
The Reverend Annabelle is magnificent as always. A mystery is never complete without her. Impossible not to love her.
May 26, 2019
I love the characters in this series and the mysteries are good! The strawberry cupcakes are good too.
October 18, 2019
Nicely written but a bit quiet. A good series for lightweight cozy fans.
February 2, 2020
Pleasant surprise
This collection held my interest from start to finish. Lighthearted and entertaining without all the repetition of misunderstood females and overbearing law men.
This collection held my interest from start to finish. Lighthearted and entertaining without all the repetition of misunderstood females and overbearing law men.
January 30, 2021
Reverend Annabelle Dixon
I loved reading these stories. Each one was different but kept a lot of the same characters. Looking forward to more books in the future
I loved reading these stories. Each one was different but kept a lot of the same characters. Looking forward to more books in the future
March 21, 2021
Great series!
I love these stories. Great plot and characters both familiar and not so familiar. I can't wait to read the next books!
I love these stories. Great plot and characters both familiar and not so familiar. I can't wait to read the next books!
July 23, 2021
Good Read
Good development of character. Enjoyable read. A very nice “escape” reading. Just enjoy the plot and the characters. Relaxing time.
Good development of character. Enjoyable read. A very nice “escape” reading. Just enjoy the plot and the characters. Relaxing time.
October 31, 2021
Comfortable Cozy
Clearly delineated characters, good versus evil (or at least criminal), great sense of geography and culture in the less famed portions of the United Kingdom.
Clearly delineated characters, good versus evil (or at least criminal), great sense of geography and culture in the less famed portions of the United Kingdom.
December 24, 2022
Book 3 is a Christmas time story with a sweet ending.
February 24, 2023
Marvelous book
I enjoyed this cozy mystery series. It was amusing and fun. It left me hanging until to the very last minute. Highly recommend.
I enjoyed this cozy mystery series. It was amusing and fun. It left me hanging until to the very last minute. Highly recommend.
March 14, 2024
Delightful
I loved the way each of the four books were similar but still separate stories. None recounted the previous book. Well written, just enough fun mixed with the mystery.
I loved the way each of the four books were similar but still separate stories. None recounted the previous book. Well written, just enough fun mixed with the mystery.
June 23, 2024
Great series
March 30, 2025
Fun Reading!
Fun and easy to read. Characters are great and fun to get to know. Though the mysteries happen they are not intense and very enjoyable.
Fun and easy to read. Characters are great and fun to get to know. Though the mysteries happen they are not intense and very enjoyable.
November 4, 2022
enjoyable
I grew up in England and thoroughly enjoy reminiscing about simple village life and the local characters, pub and vicar. Fond memories.
I grew up in England and thoroughly enjoy reminiscing about simple village life and the local characters, pub and vicar. Fond memories.
October 5, 2022
What a fantastic series - I've thoroughly enjoyed each mystery and the developing characters. Love reading about the countryside and getting a "reader's view" of the towns. This series reminds me a lot of the PBS show Father Brown, but with a female vicar. Cracks me up some of the situations the vicar gets into and how oblivious she is to the men that admire her, yet how she has that Poirot/Ms. Marple single mindedness and observation of her surroundings.
I've loved every book in this series and they just keep getting better.
I've loved every book in this series and they just keep getting better.
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