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Vintage Toyshop Mystery #3
Death of a Russian Doll
Just in time for the holidays, fans of Leslie Meier and Vicki Delany are going to want to pick up the charming third installment in Barbara Early’s Vintage Toy Shop mysteries.
It’s all fun and games with toyshop owner Liz McCall until deadly secrets are unwrapped upon the eve of the holidays.
Who knew? Liz McCall is not thrilled when her boyfriend Police Chief Ken Young introduces her to his estranged wife Marya. The model-quality Russian immigrant, back in East Aurora to rekindle their romance, will be working as a hairstylist at the barber shop next door to Well Played, the toyshop Liz manages for her dad. When Marya offers to help with the shop’s doll rehab project, Liz can’t help but offer up only a weak smile, but her secret hesitations are for naught when Marya’s body is discovered in the barber shop with a hair dryer cord wrapped around her neck.
Liz’s dad, retired from the police force, is asked to investigate since Ken is the prime suspect.The whole town is abuzz with the scandal and Liz has a few questions of her own, wanting nothing more than to forget the loud argument she overheard between Marya and Ken the night before. There could have been other motives… Was Marya going to cut into a competing hairstylist business? Who is the bumbling private investigator hanging around and why won’t he explain himself?
All eyes are on Liz, including those of an odd matryoshka doll in the shop which seems to move of its own accord, to unravel this entertaining riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma that is Death of a Russian Doll, the third jolly Vintage Toy Shop mystery from Barbara Early.
It’s all fun and games with toyshop owner Liz McCall until deadly secrets are unwrapped upon the eve of the holidays.
Who knew? Liz McCall is not thrilled when her boyfriend Police Chief Ken Young introduces her to his estranged wife Marya. The model-quality Russian immigrant, back in East Aurora to rekindle their romance, will be working as a hairstylist at the barber shop next door to Well Played, the toyshop Liz manages for her dad. When Marya offers to help with the shop’s doll rehab project, Liz can’t help but offer up only a weak smile, but her secret hesitations are for naught when Marya’s body is discovered in the barber shop with a hair dryer cord wrapped around her neck.
Liz’s dad, retired from the police force, is asked to investigate since Ken is the prime suspect.The whole town is abuzz with the scandal and Liz has a few questions of her own, wanting nothing more than to forget the loud argument she overheard between Marya and Ken the night before. There could have been other motives… Was Marya going to cut into a competing hairstylist business? Who is the bumbling private investigator hanging around and why won’t he explain himself?
All eyes are on Liz, including those of an odd matryoshka doll in the shop which seems to move of its own accord, to unravel this entertaining riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma that is Death of a Russian Doll, the third jolly Vintage Toy Shop mystery from Barbara Early.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published October 9, 2018
24 people are currently reading
170 people want to read
About the author
Barbara Early
12 books256 followersBarbara Early earned an engineering degree, but after four years of doing nothing but math, developed a sudden allergy to the subject and decided to choose another occupation. Before she settled on murdering fictional people, she was a secretary, a school teacher, a pastor’s wife, and an amateur puppeteer. After several years living elsewhere, she and her husband moved back to her native Western New York State, where she enjoys cooking, crafts, classic movies and campy seventies television, board games, and posting pictures of her four cats on Facebook. She writes the Vintage Toyshop series and the Bridal Bouquet Shop Mysteries (as Beverly Allen).
barbaraearly.com
barbaraearly.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
September 27, 2018
4 stars
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley. This was a pleasant easy cozy mystery with one murder and no graphic violence. It is book 3 in the series, but it read fine for me as a standalone. Liz McCall is getting over having a rude end to her romance with East Aurora Police Chief Ken Young(he was already married), when his wife is murdered. Ken and Liz both are suspects and Liz decides to investigate. Liz' dad is the retired police chief and he is named temporary police chief in order to conduct an impartial investigation. Liz does solve the case, with help from her dad, Lionel Kelley, a local PI, and an FBI accountant who is sweet on Liz.
I live in Western New York, which is why I decided to read this book. It is full of local references ,i.e., beef on weck, lake effect snowstorms and more.
Also, if you are a cat lover, this book is for you. One quote:
"When I finally dragged myself out of bed the next morning, Dad was already gone. He'd left half a pot of coffee and a plate of cold bacon on the counter covered with a paper towel. Or at least, that's what I think he'd been going for. I reality, I found a shredded paper towel on the floor and some ragged looking partial strips of bacon still on the plate, mingled with a few telltale black cat hairs."
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books for sending me this eARC through NetGalley. This was a pleasant easy cozy mystery with one murder and no graphic violence. It is book 3 in the series, but it read fine for me as a standalone. Liz McCall is getting over having a rude end to her romance with East Aurora Police Chief Ken Young(he was already married), when his wife is murdered. Ken and Liz both are suspects and Liz decides to investigate. Liz' dad is the retired police chief and he is named temporary police chief in order to conduct an impartial investigation. Liz does solve the case, with help from her dad, Lionel Kelley, a local PI, and an FBI accountant who is sweet on Liz.
I live in Western New York, which is why I decided to read this book. It is full of local references ,i.e., beef on weck, lake effect snowstorms and more.
Also, if you are a cat lover, this book is for you. One quote:
"When I finally dragged myself out of bed the next morning, Dad was already gone. He'd left half a pot of coffee and a plate of cold bacon on the counter covered with a paper towel. Or at least, that's what I think he'd been going for. I reality, I found a shredded paper towel on the floor and some ragged looking partial strips of bacon still on the plate, mingled with a few telltale black cat hairs."
October 20, 2018
Death of a Russian Doll by Barbara Early is the third book in the cozy Vintage Toyshop Mystery series. Each book in the series has it’s own case to be solved within the book so they can be read as a standalone if choosing to do so however there is character building carried over from book to book.
Liz McCall’s father used to be the police chief in their small little town but after retirement he decided to purchase a collectable toy shop. After opening though he realized he needed help and recruited Liz to help run the shop which she never expected but has settled into quite nicely.
Liz had been dating the current chief of police Ken Young until his estranged wife Marya came to town whom Liz had no idea even existed. Now Marya is working next door to the toy shop in the beauty salon and Liz has to put on a smile and be welcoming. As much as Liz didn’t like having Marya around however she never wanted her to become a murder victim with herself and Ken as suspects.
The Vintage Toyshop Mystery series is one that I have followed from the beginning and always enjoy reading the next installment. With Liz having such a connection to the police department it gives the stories that much more believablity. With the small town vibe, likable characters and interesting mysteries this is one series I will continue to return to with each new book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
Liz McCall’s father used to be the police chief in their small little town but after retirement he decided to purchase a collectable toy shop. After opening though he realized he needed help and recruited Liz to help run the shop which she never expected but has settled into quite nicely.
Liz had been dating the current chief of police Ken Young until his estranged wife Marya came to town whom Liz had no idea even existed. Now Marya is working next door to the toy shop in the beauty salon and Liz has to put on a smile and be welcoming. As much as Liz didn’t like having Marya around however she never wanted her to become a murder victim with herself and Ken as suspects.
The Vintage Toyshop Mystery series is one that I have followed from the beginning and always enjoy reading the next installment. With Liz having such a connection to the police department it gives the stories that much more believablity. With the small town vibe, likable characters and interesting mysteries this is one series I will continue to return to with each new book.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
October 27, 2018
Dollycas’s Thoughts
So Liz McCalls’ and Ken Young’s romance hit the skids when his estranged wife Marya arrived in town. Liz has been dealing with the complete shock and the fact Ken lied to her. Then the Russian immigrant Marya starts working at the barbershop right next to Well Played and she even volunteers to help on a new project the shop has started repairing used dolls and sharing them with needy kids. Liz puts on a happy face and is on her best behavior during the meetings.
The Marya is found dead – in the barbershop – strangled with the cord from a hair dryer . . . and Police Chief Ken Young finds himself at the top of the suspect list. Removed from his position pending completion of the investigation Liz’s dad comes out of retirement to take his place. Liz did hear Ken and Marya arguing but she can’t see him killing her. There must be other suspects. Liz decides that she needs to find out more about the woman she didn’t even know existed until about a year ago. She needs to get this case wrapped up so her dad can get back to his retirement and the toy shop before the holidays.
Barbara Early has penned a captivating cozy in this 3rd installment of this delightful series.
I really like Liz. She is a smart protagonist that thinks things through before she leaps into action. She works so well with her dad and he values her input. She also gets some assistance from a certain FBI accountant that would really like to move their relationship out of the friend zone. All the characters are realistic and I love the dialogue.
The toy shop Liz manages for her dad, Well Played, is more than a place to buy the toys of yesteryear. It is a gathering place with its weekly game nights and now with the restore doll project. You get a real sense of community from the people who enter the shop, especially during the holiday season. East Aurora has a real small town feel.
Ken’s wife being a Russian immigrant brings a current hot topic into play and it is hard not to feel for the woman. It also brings Ken’s sisters to town and they are two formidable women with the brother’s best interests at heart but their overbearing nature is a bit much for even Ken. Liz finally gets them to open up and gets information to move the investigation along.
The story is full of twists and some real surprises. At one point I think I screamed out at the exact time Liz did. It takes an extraordinary author to have a reader get that deep into a story. The plot came together with another surprise, I was totally wrong in my pick of the killer. The story finishes with another little twist that leaves me very excited about the next book in this series.
Drama, humor, a touch of romance come together with great characters to make this an excellent read. A perfect escape as we head into the holiday season!
So Liz McCalls’ and Ken Young’s romance hit the skids when his estranged wife Marya arrived in town. Liz has been dealing with the complete shock and the fact Ken lied to her. Then the Russian immigrant Marya starts working at the barbershop right next to Well Played and she even volunteers to help on a new project the shop has started repairing used dolls and sharing them with needy kids. Liz puts on a happy face and is on her best behavior during the meetings.
The Marya is found dead – in the barbershop – strangled with the cord from a hair dryer . . . and Police Chief Ken Young finds himself at the top of the suspect list. Removed from his position pending completion of the investigation Liz’s dad comes out of retirement to take his place. Liz did hear Ken and Marya arguing but she can’t see him killing her. There must be other suspects. Liz decides that she needs to find out more about the woman she didn’t even know existed until about a year ago. She needs to get this case wrapped up so her dad can get back to his retirement and the toy shop before the holidays.
Barbara Early has penned a captivating cozy in this 3rd installment of this delightful series.
I really like Liz. She is a smart protagonist that thinks things through before she leaps into action. She works so well with her dad and he values her input. She also gets some assistance from a certain FBI accountant that would really like to move their relationship out of the friend zone. All the characters are realistic and I love the dialogue.
The toy shop Liz manages for her dad, Well Played, is more than a place to buy the toys of yesteryear. It is a gathering place with its weekly game nights and now with the restore doll project. You get a real sense of community from the people who enter the shop, especially during the holiday season. East Aurora has a real small town feel.
Ken’s wife being a Russian immigrant brings a current hot topic into play and it is hard not to feel for the woman. It also brings Ken’s sisters to town and they are two formidable women with the brother’s best interests at heart but their overbearing nature is a bit much for even Ken. Liz finally gets them to open up and gets information to move the investigation along.
The story is full of twists and some real surprises. At one point I think I screamed out at the exact time Liz did. It takes an extraordinary author to have a reader get that deep into a story. The plot came together with another surprise, I was totally wrong in my pick of the killer. The story finishes with another little twist that leaves me very excited about the next book in this series.
Drama, humor, a touch of romance come together with great characters to make this an excellent read. A perfect escape as we head into the holiday season!
October 12, 2018
It's been a year since police chief Ken's wife Marya showed up, nipping Liz's romance with Ken in the bud. She hasn't completely recovered from the shock and hurt, but when Marya shows up murdered in the barbershop next to Well Played, Liz knows she and Ken will both be suspects. With her father stepping in as police chief, Liz begins to find an alternative suspect. But who in town knew Marya well enough to kill her?
The plot spends equal time digging into Marya's past while also attempting to figure out how what we learn can bring us any suspects. The result is a fast paced and fun mystery that leads to a logical solution. The characters are strong as always, and provide plenty of fun. I laughed at some of the situations and the puns we got over the course of the book. I was pleasantly surprised to see Mark Baker return in a larger roll this time around. Add in the Christmas setting, and you've got a winner will many layers of fun.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
The plot spends equal time digging into Marya's past while also attempting to figure out how what we learn can bring us any suspects. The result is a fast paced and fun mystery that leads to a logical solution. The characters are strong as always, and provide plenty of fun. I laughed at some of the situations and the puns we got over the course of the book. I was pleasantly surprised to see Mark Baker return in a larger roll this time around. Add in the Christmas setting, and you've got a winner will many layers of fun.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
January 23, 2021
A good cozy mystery.
November 24, 2018
Even though I have copies of the first two books, this is the first book of the series that I've read, but I definitely hope to fix that over the next month or so. I quickly fell in love with the regular characters and I think Liz's dad Hank has to be my favorite. He's so...punny, lol. My dad always loved the kinds of jokes and puns that Hank was always spouting.
Liz had dated the police chief Ken Young for awhile and they thought their relationship was making progress when (assuming in the last book) his estranged wife from Russia who had been living in the south showed up. When she was found strangled in the barbershop next door to the toy shop, Ken became the main person of interest. Liz was still friends with Ken and didn't want to see him go to jail for something she knew in her heart he didn't do. Along with her dad and an FBI accountant named Mark (who is becoming a closer friend of Liz) Liz started investigating. Hopefully she could discover the truth before it was too late for Ken.
I loved the little side mystery of the Russian doll that seemed to keep moving. Cathy, Liz's sister-in-law, loved to tease her that it was haunted, since Liz is creeped out by dolls to begin with. The local characters like the two older ladies Irene and Lenora and the local PI Lionel were so funny at times. I loved the scene where Liz ended up at the library thinking it was a book club for seniors that she was investigating. I didn't guess the killer until it was time to realize it. I thought the mystery was awesomely plotted and moved along at a good pace. I could hardly put it down.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
Liz had dated the police chief Ken Young for awhile and they thought their relationship was making progress when (assuming in the last book) his estranged wife from Russia who had been living in the south showed up. When she was found strangled in the barbershop next door to the toy shop, Ken became the main person of interest. Liz was still friends with Ken and didn't want to see him go to jail for something she knew in her heart he didn't do. Along with her dad and an FBI accountant named Mark (who is becoming a closer friend of Liz) Liz started investigating. Hopefully she could discover the truth before it was too late for Ken.
I loved the little side mystery of the Russian doll that seemed to keep moving. Cathy, Liz's sister-in-law, loved to tease her that it was haunted, since Liz is creeped out by dolls to begin with. The local characters like the two older ladies Irene and Lenora and the local PI Lionel were so funny at times. I loved the scene where Liz ended up at the library thinking it was a book club for seniors that she was investigating. I didn't guess the killer until it was time to realize it. I thought the mystery was awesomely plotted and moved along at a good pace. I could hardly put it down.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.
September 6, 2018
I found this third installment in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series to be an enjoyable and quick read. I like the character of Liz McCall and find her fun and a bit quirky. While she is an amateur sleuth, her dad is a retired police officer so she is not impetuous or reckless when she is trying to solve a mystery. The secondary characters are all well written and add color and fun to round out the story. The mystery was well done. The victim was new to town so that allowed the author to provide the reader a nice selection of possible suspects and motives which kept me guessing through the entire book. I did not guess the identity of the killer or the reason and thought the book had a satisfying conclusion. I really enjoy this series and will be back to see what the author has in store for the next book.
A full review will be posted to my blog shortly after release date. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
A full review will be posted to my blog shortly after release date. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
October 4, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the series. I did not read 1 and 2 . But I love this book. It is Christmas time and Liz and Cathy ( Liz sister and law) are planning on giving antique dolls to little girls for free in their Antique Toy Shop Well Played. Liz father was a retired cop so he started the shop. Liz ex boyfriend cop Ken had a Russian wife Mirya that Liz did not know about until recently. So Liz was juggling some men that liked her. But Mirya ( a hairstylist) got killed in the barber shop that she had right next door to the Toy Shop. There are a lot of suspect but Ken was number one and Liz was another. Liz father was deputies for this case ( even though he did not work there anymore) because Ken was suspect. I Loved the Antique Toy Shop Well Played Vintage Toy Shop. All cool you I have not heard of in awhile. Like the Oven Bake machine of 80's. That is when I found out how to make cookies and cakes yummy. And a Russian Doll called Matryoshka. Tonka toys, cabbage patch doll have one of those too the original. I will read 1 and 2. I hope Barbara wrote more of the series. Love them
October 16, 2018
Death Of A Russian Doll
Vintage Toyshop Mystery, Book #3
Barbara Early
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Just in time for the holidays, fans of Leslie Meier and Vicki Delany are going to want to pick up the charming third installment in Barbara Early’s Vintage Toy Shop mysteries.
It’s all fun and games with toyshop owner Liz McCall until deadly secrets are unwrapped upon the eve of the holidays.
Who knew? Liz McCall is not thrilled when her boyfriend Police Chief Ken Young introduces her to his estranged wife Marya. The model-quality Russian immigrant, back in East Aurora to rekindle their romance, will be working as a hairstylist at the barber shop next door to Well Played, the toyshop Liz manages for her dad. When Marya offers to help with the shop’s doll rehab project, Liz can’t help but offer up only a weak smile, but her secret hesitations are for naught when Marya’s body is discovered in the barber shop with a hair dryer cord wrapped around her neck.
Liz’s dad, retired from the police force, is asked to investigate since Ken is the prime suspect.The whole town is abuzz with the scandal and Liz has a few questions of her own, wanting nothing more than to forget the loud argument she overheard between Marya and Ken the night before. There could have been other motives… Was Marya going to cut into a competing hairstylist business? Who is the bumbling private investigator hanging around and why won’t he explain himself?
All eyes are on Liz, including those of an odd matryoshka doll in the shop which seems to move of its own accord, to unravel this entertaining riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma that is Death of a Russian Doll, the third jolly Vintage Toy Shop mystery from Barbara Early. (Goodreads)
Review:
I just love this series: the characters, the setting and the mystery. Anyone who wants to get lost in an enjoyable read, this is your book.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I just love the relationship between Liz and her dad. Their bickering and banter and their one line jokes were so funny. All of the characters add so much to the story and I love getting to spend time with them.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and it helped me form an explicit picture in my mind of the toy shop and the community.
The mystery is well plotted and had enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. There were enough twists and turns and red herrings thrown in and the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I liked everything about this book and I am already looking forward to read the next one, when it is published.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
Vintage Toyshop Mystery, Book #3
Barbara Early
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Just in time for the holidays, fans of Leslie Meier and Vicki Delany are going to want to pick up the charming third installment in Barbara Early’s Vintage Toy Shop mysteries.
It’s all fun and games with toyshop owner Liz McCall until deadly secrets are unwrapped upon the eve of the holidays.
Who knew? Liz McCall is not thrilled when her boyfriend Police Chief Ken Young introduces her to his estranged wife Marya. The model-quality Russian immigrant, back in East Aurora to rekindle their romance, will be working as a hairstylist at the barber shop next door to Well Played, the toyshop Liz manages for her dad. When Marya offers to help with the shop’s doll rehab project, Liz can’t help but offer up only a weak smile, but her secret hesitations are for naught when Marya’s body is discovered in the barber shop with a hair dryer cord wrapped around her neck.
Liz’s dad, retired from the police force, is asked to investigate since Ken is the prime suspect.The whole town is abuzz with the scandal and Liz has a few questions of her own, wanting nothing more than to forget the loud argument she overheard between Marya and Ken the night before. There could have been other motives… Was Marya going to cut into a competing hairstylist business? Who is the bumbling private investigator hanging around and why won’t he explain himself?
All eyes are on Liz, including those of an odd matryoshka doll in the shop which seems to move of its own accord, to unravel this entertaining riddle, wrapped in a mystery, inside an enigma that is Death of a Russian Doll, the third jolly Vintage Toy Shop mystery from Barbara Early. (Goodreads)
Review:
I just love this series: the characters, the setting and the mystery. Anyone who wants to get lost in an enjoyable read, this is your book.
The characters are well rounded and well developed. I just love the relationship between Liz and her dad. Their bickering and banter and their one line jokes were so funny. All of the characters add so much to the story and I love getting to spend time with them.
The writing style flows smoothly and it defines the characters very clearly by their actions and words. The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and it helped me form an explicit picture in my mind of the toy shop and the community.
The mystery is well plotted and had enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. There were enough twists and turns and red herrings thrown in and the mystery was not an easy one to solve.
I would highly recommend this book (and series) to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I liked everything about this book and I am already looking forward to read the next one, when it is published.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.
August 19, 2018
Death of a Russian Doll is the third book in the Vintage Toyshop series. Liz McCall works at her family's toy shop, Well Played, in East Aurora, New York--a small town south of Buffalo. She is trying to move on after the shock of discovering that her now ex-boyfriend and current chief of police, Ken Young, was separated and not divorced. His wife Marya is from Russia and runs the hair salon next door to the toy shop. When Marya is found murdered, Ken is removed from his position and Liz's father Hank, the retired chief of police, is asked to lead the investigation. While Ken broke her heart, Liz still believes in Ken's innocence and sets out to investigate the crime. She's also involved with a charity project connecting donated dolls with children; the dolls need to be cleaned and she is seeking funding so they can be ready for Christmas. Liz also has a romantic interest again and I am cheering them on for the next installment!
The book is very well-written and paced. I especially love the dialogue and body language between Liz and Hank. There is plenty of humor but also a special intimacy between the various characters which is very touching. I didn't know the killer's identity for sure until the very end because of the excellent plot twists. The book can be read as a standalone, though I did read the prior two books in the series and found it helpful to know the background of the characters. I am definitely looking to the next book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Publishers for a digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
The book is very well-written and paced. I especially love the dialogue and body language between Liz and Hank. There is plenty of humor but also a special intimacy between the various characters which is very touching. I didn't know the killer's identity for sure until the very end because of the excellent plot twists. The book can be read as a standalone, though I did read the prior two books in the series and found it helpful to know the background of the characters. I am definitely looking to the next book in this series.
Thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Publishers for a digital copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
July 25, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. Liz McCall is a great protagonist and her role in this book is phenomenal.
Even though her relationship with Ken has hit a huge roadblock, that doesn't stop her from investigating when his estranged wife s found dead, murdered, and he becomes the prime suspect.
This story grabs the reader from the very beginning and keeps the momentum going throughout the entire book.
The cast of characters add humor to this story and the reveal was shocking. I did not figure it out until the end.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley
Even though her relationship with Ken has hit a huge roadblock, that doesn't stop her from investigating when his estranged wife s found dead, murdered, and he becomes the prime suspect.
This story grabs the reader from the very beginning and keeps the momentum going throughout the entire book.
The cast of characters add humor to this story and the reveal was shocking. I did not figure it out until the end.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley
April 12, 2018
Author Barbara Early excels at creating interesting characters and engaging story lines. Liz manages her father’s retro toy shop in East Aurora, NY. Liz’s dad, Hank, is a retired police chief and her boyfriend, Ken, is the current police chief, yet Liz may have the most talent of all at solving crimes. When Ken’s ex, Maya, returns to town things quickly turn deadly for the Russian émigré. When Ken becomes suspect numero uno, Hank and Liz are determined to find out who the really killer is. This is the third installment of A Vintage Toy Shop Mystery, but it can easily stand alone. This book offers so much - engaging characters, a well-plotted story-line, delightful twists and turns and feelings of good ole fashioned nostalgia that comes with the vintage toy shop setting.
December 17, 2019
Death of a Russian Doll by Barbara Early is the third A Vintage Toy Shop Mystery. I recommend reading the series in order. Otherwise, you will be missing some of the background information on the main characters. Liz McCall becomes embroiled in another murder investigation when Ken Young, the local chief of police and her beau, is accused of murdering his Russian wife, Marya. Liz has been dating Ken for a while and this is the first she has heard about Ken being married. While Liz’s father is in charge of the investigation, Liz has no intention of sitting out the case despite the extra workload at the shop plus finding a sponsor for the doll project. I like the vintage toy shop owned by the McCall family called Well Played. I enjoy the inclusion of the toys carried in the shop (a nice variety that bring back memories). The mystery was complex but with a simple solution. I like how the whodunit is multifaceted. I would have preferred more active investigating by Liz and less romance. It seems that Liz has accumulated three romantic interests (I am not kidding). There was too much time devoted to romance and not enough to the mystery. Death of a Russian Doll was an entertaining cozy mystery with good characters, a charming setting, fun toys, family, food, humor, and an intriguing mystery. Death of a Russian Doll has damaged dolls, a stream of suitors, mystifying Matryoshka dolls, treasured toys, mysterious mate, and meddlesome family members.
May 20, 2018
Liz is not happy, just as things seemed to be going well with the Police Chief Ken Young (and by well that means romantically) his unknown, estranged wife arrives and it seems she wants to get back together with Ken, so romance is off again between them, so Liz tries to avoid the both of them, but it is tricky to avoid Marya as she not only works next door at the barber/hairdressers but she also has joined the team of ladies fixing up broken dolls, which will then be gifts for under privileged children.
Liz then overhears part of a humdinger of an argument between Ken and Marya, the problem that then arises is that Marya is found murdered and Ken is the prime suspect. Liz doesn't believe he could have done it, but with Ken suspended pending the investigation and Hank (Liz's father) drafted back as Police Chief, Liz has a lot on her plate - oh and she hopes to pitch the doll rehab charity to a local firm for backing, and ends up going out with the son (and current person in charge of the charity decisions), she also has been invited out by Mark (the FBI investigative accountant), could life get any more complicated ... well YES but you need to read it to find out how and why grin.
NB I was lucky enough to get an advance copy from NetGalley.
Liz then overhears part of a humdinger of an argument between Ken and Marya, the problem that then arises is that Marya is found murdered and Ken is the prime suspect. Liz doesn't believe he could have done it, but with Ken suspended pending the investigation and Hank (Liz's father) drafted back as Police Chief, Liz has a lot on her plate - oh and she hopes to pitch the doll rehab charity to a local firm for backing, and ends up going out with the son (and current person in charge of the charity decisions), she also has been invited out by Mark (the FBI investigative accountant), could life get any more complicated ... well YES but you need to read it to find out how and why grin.
NB I was lucky enough to get an advance copy from NetGalley.
February 20, 2019
Author Barbara Early has been one of my favorite authors since I first read her Bridal Bouquet Shop Mysteries written under the pen name of, Beverly Allen (you have got to read them!). But she secured me as a lifelong fan when I read the first of her Vintage Toyshop Mysteries, DEATH OF A TOY SOLDIER.
I was like a kid at Christmas to finally have, DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL in my hands. I opened the book with great anticipation of the story to come and I was not disappointed!
In this clever whodunit, murder hits close to home for protagonist Liz McCall, which makes finding the killer even more important to her. It also makes for a super exciting read for us! From the moment the victim is found, until the killer is outed, DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL held me enthralled. Well, that’s not entirely true. I was enthralled from the very first page!
Barbara Early knows exactly what it takes to entertain her readers and assure they will return to her books time and time again. And this book is written proof of that.
Who needs toys for Christmas when you can read DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL!
I was like a kid at Christmas to finally have, DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL in my hands. I opened the book with great anticipation of the story to come and I was not disappointed!
In this clever whodunit, murder hits close to home for protagonist Liz McCall, which makes finding the killer even more important to her. It also makes for a super exciting read for us! From the moment the victim is found, until the killer is outed, DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL held me enthralled. Well, that’s not entirely true. I was enthralled from the very first page!
Barbara Early knows exactly what it takes to entertain her readers and assure they will return to her books time and time again. And this book is written proof of that.
Who needs toys for Christmas when you can read DEATH OF A RUSSIAN DOLL!
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July 31, 2018I have read this author many times. The third book of this series did not disappoint. they characters caught my attention almost at once and I found myself reading late to finish the book.
Liz McCall beginning a romance with Police Chef Ken Young ended when his wife Marya arrive in town. Liz turns her attention to Cathy's doll project.
Mary's barbershop is next door to the toy store. Mary's is strangled there and Ken Young was suspended while the investigation is finished. Liz's Father is appointed Police Chief. This story has so many twists that you won't be able to put it down. Liz battles with missing drugs, family loyalty, a wealthy the most covet man about town, mysterious money arriving and disappearing a snow storm, human traffic, and chicken ranches. The villain will surprise you. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Liz McCall beginning a romance with Police Chef Ken Young ended when his wife Marya arrive in town. Liz turns her attention to Cathy's doll project.
Mary's barbershop is next door to the toy store. Mary's is strangled there and Ken Young was suspended while the investigation is finished. Liz's Father is appointed Police Chief. This story has so many twists that you won't be able to put it down. Liz battles with missing drugs, family loyalty, a wealthy the most covet man about town, mysterious money arriving and disappearing a snow storm, human traffic, and chicken ranches. The villain will surprise you. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 23, 2018
I want to thank NetGalley and Crooked Lane Publishing for this delightful cosy mystery. The dialogue is witty, some humorous situations and engaging characters. The mystery is well plotted and there is room for some romance and breakups. This is my introduction to the Vintage Toy Shop series, and can’t wait to read the previous two books.
Although this book works as a stand-alone I am anxious to learn more about Liz McCall and her father, Hank, a retired policeman and now toy shop owner. I also a. Interested in learning more about her workmates, previous boyfriends and her prior success in solving mysteries.
Hank is called out of retirement to investigate Police Chief Ken Young. He was Liz’s romantic interest until she found out he was married when his beautiful Russian wife, Marya, moved into his home. This caused some scandal but mostly sympathy for Liz. Marya works as a hairdresser at the barber shop which is adjacent to the vintage toy store. She also joins a group at the toy store restoring dolls for disadvantaged children. After Liz overhears a loud argument between Ken and his wife, Marya is found murdered. Liz is determined to find Ken innocent and involves herself in the investigation. Ken wants to renew their relationship if he doesn’t end up in prison, and meanwhile Liz is dating two other men. All the while she is carrying out her detective work with great determination.
This was an enjoyable read with eye catching cover art.
Although this book works as a stand-alone I am anxious to learn more about Liz McCall and her father, Hank, a retired policeman and now toy shop owner. I also a. Interested in learning more about her workmates, previous boyfriends and her prior success in solving mysteries.
Hank is called out of retirement to investigate Police Chief Ken Young. He was Liz’s romantic interest until she found out he was married when his beautiful Russian wife, Marya, moved into his home. This caused some scandal but mostly sympathy for Liz. Marya works as a hairdresser at the barber shop which is adjacent to the vintage toy store. She also joins a group at the toy store restoring dolls for disadvantaged children. After Liz overhears a loud argument between Ken and his wife, Marya is found murdered. Liz is determined to find Ken innocent and involves herself in the investigation. Ken wants to renew their relationship if he doesn’t end up in prison, and meanwhile Liz is dating two other men. All the while she is carrying out her detective work with great determination.
This was an enjoyable read with eye catching cover art.
January 8, 2019
What a great book to read during the holidays....Death of a Russian Doll....not because there is a murder...but for everything else !!! The Vintage Toyshop Mystery series by Barbara Early has an awesome setting....a toy store !!! And it's run by an amazingly awesome family !! Liz McCall and her "retired" police chief father own, run and live above the toyshop and Liz's sister-in-law works at the toy shop.
Unfortunately in Death of a Russian Doll there is a murder right next store at the barber shop !!! And when the victim ends up being the wife of the current police chief, Ken and Liz's "sort of" boyfriend you know Liz is going to get involved. Not only does Liz dip her toes in but her father is asked to step in and take over the case seeing as the current police chief is not only the victim's husband but the top suspect.
So while Liz comes to terms with the secrets that Ken has kept from her and her father is off working the case, you, the reader, get to fall in love Liz and crew. And not only do you get to ride along trying to solve the case, you also get to see Liz juggle her love interests and you also get to know her sister-in-law Cathy and her interests in toys.....dolls !!!
The Vintage Toyshop Mystery series is a great series to get lost in with the amazing characters that Early introduces you to.....you will be in love instantly !!!
Unfortunately in Death of a Russian Doll there is a murder right next store at the barber shop !!! And when the victim ends up being the wife of the current police chief, Ken and Liz's "sort of" boyfriend you know Liz is going to get involved. Not only does Liz dip her toes in but her father is asked to step in and take over the case seeing as the current police chief is not only the victim's husband but the top suspect.
So while Liz comes to terms with the secrets that Ken has kept from her and her father is off working the case, you, the reader, get to fall in love Liz and crew. And not only do you get to ride along trying to solve the case, you also get to see Liz juggle her love interests and you also get to know her sister-in-law Cathy and her interests in toys.....dolls !!!
The Vintage Toyshop Mystery series is a great series to get lost in with the amazing characters that Early introduces you to.....you will be in love instantly !!!
May 28, 2018
Poor Liz, her promising new romance with new police chief Ken Young was shattered when his estranged wife, Marya, blew into town looking to reconcile. Liz does her best to get over it, but when Marya is found strangled to death and Ken comes under suspicion, Liz steps in to help her dad solve the murder and uncovers the secrets Marya has been hiding for years. But who killed her?
Another great chapter in the Vintage Toy Shop series, I loved the twisty plot, this wasn't your ordinary cozy! There were a lot of timely themes in this story that were handled with humanity and grace. When the whole truth came out, it wasn't difficult to feel for Marya and her tragic history, and it made for a memorable read. I totally knew who did it by a third of the way through the book (and I was completely wrong, so the ending was a surprise!)
The villagers are always a hoot and the liberal sprinkling of puns made me chuckle. Add in Liz's new romance and the nostalgic (at least for me!) setting and the book left me with the warm and fuzzies. A marvelous series that just keeps getting better and better. This book can be read as a standalone, as any references to the earlier books are adequately explained, but I definitely recommend reading them in order (actually I just recommend reading all of them!)
Another great chapter in the Vintage Toy Shop series, I loved the twisty plot, this wasn't your ordinary cozy! There were a lot of timely themes in this story that were handled with humanity and grace. When the whole truth came out, it wasn't difficult to feel for Marya and her tragic history, and it made for a memorable read. I totally knew who did it by a third of the way through the book (and I was completely wrong, so the ending was a surprise!)
The villagers are always a hoot and the liberal sprinkling of puns made me chuckle. Add in Liz's new romance and the nostalgic (at least for me!) setting and the book left me with the warm and fuzzies. A marvelous series that just keeps getting better and better. This book can be read as a standalone, as any references to the earlier books are adequately explained, but I definitely recommend reading them in order (actually I just recommend reading all of them!)
April 20, 2018
Oh, how I love the Vintage Toy Shop mysteries, especially this latest from author Barbara Early. When we last saw Liz McCall, her boyfriend’s wife (!) showed up to put a kibosh on the burgeoning romance. Now the eyes of the town are on the “happy” couple, as well as on Liz. Thankfully the town seems to be on Liz’s side since she didn’t even know her boyfriend/police chief was married. When the wife’s body is found in the barbershop next door to the vintage toy store Liz and her father run, Liz can see the writing on the wall. She lets her inner Nancy Drew take over to find the killer before it’s her name on the wanted poster.
I cannot say enough how much I love the humor in this mystery series. It left me chuckling throughout. Watching as her relationships with the town and its people evolve is great fun, though it also means the series is probably read best read in order (aren’t they all?!) because it will reference past events, though it doesn’t go into detail. I was given the opportunity to read an ARC of this book from NetGalley which I was thrilled about, but that just means it is that much longer until the NEXT book is released (of which I HOPE there are many more). I’m not sure I can stand it! Excellent, excellent book and series.
I cannot say enough how much I love the humor in this mystery series. It left me chuckling throughout. Watching as her relationships with the town and its people evolve is great fun, though it also means the series is probably read best read in order (aren’t they all?!) because it will reference past events, though it doesn’t go into detail. I was given the opportunity to read an ARC of this book from NetGalley which I was thrilled about, but that just means it is that much longer until the NEXT book is released (of which I HOPE there are many more). I’m not sure I can stand it! Excellent, excellent book and series.
May 6, 2018
Death of a Russian Doll by Barbara Early is the third book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series and can be read as a standalone. This is a really enjoyable cozy mystery; there is a right balance of mystery, humor and romance.
Liz, the daughter of a former police chief of a small town, is unofficially involved in the investigation of the murder of her ex-boyfriend’s wife. The plot is charming and what make great this book is East Aurora citizens. Liz relationships with the town and its people is so amusing, it makes me laugh so loud.
I didn’t read the previous books, but I am sure I am going to read them while I will wait for the next one.
A special thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing a free digital copy of this book.
Liz, the daughter of a former police chief of a small town, is unofficially involved in the investigation of the murder of her ex-boyfriend’s wife. The plot is charming and what make great this book is East Aurora citizens. Liz relationships with the town and its people is so amusing, it makes me laugh so loud.
I didn’t read the previous books, but I am sure I am going to read them while I will wait for the next one.
A special thank you to Netgalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing a free digital copy of this book.
November 5, 2018
Romance between Liz and the police chief Ken is over, when Ken's estranged wife comes to town. Liz works at her father's toy shop and her ex's wife works next door at the hair salon. Considering the circumstances, Liz didn't like Marya, but when she is found dead and her ex Ken is the prime suspect, she believes his innocence. Liz's father is asked to help to solve the case and Liz wants to help her father and Ken, so she she starts to looks into the case herself.
It's the third book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series, but the first I read. It works well as a standalone as there was enough background to all the characters. I liked the Vintage Toy Shop idea, the small village vibe. The characters and the mystery were very well written. I didn't guess the killer until the end and I'll definitely continue with the series.
It's the third book in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series, but the first I read. It works well as a standalone as there was enough background to all the characters. I liked the Vintage Toy Shop idea, the small village vibe. The characters and the mystery were very well written. I didn't guess the killer until the end and I'll definitely continue with the series.
October 3, 2018
A nice and entertaining cozy. The book is well written, with a likeable cast of characters.
It's possible to read it as a standalone even if there are references to previous books.
The plot is sound, it kept me guessing till the end and it kept hooked till the last page.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for this ARC
It's possible to read it as a standalone even if there are references to previous books.
The plot is sound, it kept me guessing till the end and it kept hooked till the last page.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for this ARC
August 19, 2018
I received a Digital Review Copy from Kensington Books and NetGalley.
Death of a Russian Doll is the third book in the Vintage Toy Shop Mystery series by Barbara Early. This is the first book I read in the series and won't be reading the rest.
I really didn't care for any of the characters, especially Liz the main character. I don't know how old Liz is but she is pretty naive and annoying and I will stop there.
There is something that bothered me early on in the book, the use of the word "illegal alien". When I first read that, I was taken aback. Wow, I guess people still use that term.
If you want to read a book featuring a grown woman who wears kid themed character pajamas, gets her haircut by her Dad and doesn't stand up for herself, then you might like this book.
Death of a Russian Doll is the third book in the Vintage Toy Shop Mystery series by Barbara Early. This is the first book I read in the series and won't be reading the rest.
I really didn't care for any of the characters, especially Liz the main character. I don't know how old Liz is but she is pretty naive and annoying and I will stop there.
There is something that bothered me early on in the book, the use of the word "illegal alien". When I first read that, I was taken aback. Wow, I guess people still use that term.
If you want to read a book featuring a grown woman who wears kid themed character pajamas, gets her haircut by her Dad and doesn't stand up for herself, then you might like this book.
August 30, 2018
Liz McCall's ex--due to an unmentioned wife--is suspended from his duties as police chief due to the murder of aforementioned wife. Her father comes out of retirement to lead the investigation into the murder which leaves Liz and her sister carrying the load at their vintage toy shop. But extra work doesn't stop Liz from getting very involved in the investigation. Her ex, Ken, may be interested in rekindling their relationship, but he has serious competition from not one, but two other suitors.
Interesting background of vintage toys and an unexpected, but fair, solution make for an enjoyable read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Interesting background of vintage toys and an unexpected, but fair, solution make for an enjoyable read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2018
Liz McCall works in her father's toy shop and lives above it with her dad. She has a pretty decent life, and seems to be content, but she's had a rough love life. She broke up with her first love, Jack Wallace, in order to be with Police Chief Ken Young. However, just as Liz decided she made the right decision, Ken dropped a bomb...
It seems he had a wife he never told her about named Marya, and Liz felt betrayed. Needless to say, after that, she didn't want much to do with either one of them. But Liz and her sister-in-law Cathy are rehabbing dolls for needy children, and Liz, who hates dolls, doesn't want much to do with them. Cathy has help with the clothes and cleaning, but she doesn't know about doll hair - although she knows someone who does. That someone is Marya, so she asks her to help. To Liz's dismay, Marya shows up at the shop ready to start work, but it's apparent she doesn't like Liz.
When Marya is found murdered and Ken is the main suspect, he's temporarily removed from his job while her father Hank, former police chief, is asked to fill in until the case is solved. While she's worried for her dad, Liz decides if she can do a little digging on her own she'll be able to help. But will it be helping her dad or allow a murderer to kill again?...
I've read the first two books in the series, so if anyone hasn't read them, I'll try not to say too much rather than ruin it for anyone.
Then there's Liz herself, who probably isn't mature enough to handle a relationship of any kind. She still lives with her dad (which pretty much kills the love life of any adult woman) and allows her father to cut her hair. (Really?) She wears cartoon-themed footed pajamas. (Honestly?) She allows her sister-in-law to fix her makeup and hair when she's going out, and even choose her clothes for her. This is an adult woman, not a five-year-old child. Yet it seems she's never gotten out of the childhood stage at all. I was choosing my own clothes (and can dress quite nicely for events) and wearing makeup when I was a teenager. Liz still isn't capable of these things, and we're supposed to believe that she's even capable of handling a relationship?
Unfortunately, because of the things I mentioned above, it detracted from the mystery. Every time it progressed, Liz did (or wore) something else that just seemed unreal. In real life, if a bunch of people saw her in those pajamas, they wouldn't think it was cute; they'd wonder what was wrong with her.
We were also given no clues at all to the killer until the very end. We weren't given a chance to figure it out for ourselves - which is why we read mysteries. Most of the book was centered on Liz and her love life; less on the mystery. Other than that, it was a decent cozy and can be read in one evening.
It seems he had a wife he never told her about named Marya, and Liz felt betrayed. Needless to say, after that, she didn't want much to do with either one of them. But Liz and her sister-in-law Cathy are rehabbing dolls for needy children, and Liz, who hates dolls, doesn't want much to do with them. Cathy has help with the clothes and cleaning, but she doesn't know about doll hair - although she knows someone who does. That someone is Marya, so she asks her to help. To Liz's dismay, Marya shows up at the shop ready to start work, but it's apparent she doesn't like Liz.
When Marya is found murdered and Ken is the main suspect, he's temporarily removed from his job while her father Hank, former police chief, is asked to fill in until the case is solved. While she's worried for her dad, Liz decides if she can do a little digging on her own she'll be able to help. But will it be helping her dad or allow a murderer to kill again?...
I've read the first two books in the series, so if anyone hasn't read them, I'll try not to say too much rather than ruin it for anyone.
Then there's Liz herself, who probably isn't mature enough to handle a relationship of any kind. She still lives with her dad (which pretty much kills the love life of any adult woman) and allows her father to cut her hair. (Really?) She wears cartoon-themed footed pajamas. (Honestly?) She allows her sister-in-law to fix her makeup and hair when she's going out, and even choose her clothes for her. This is an adult woman, not a five-year-old child. Yet it seems she's never gotten out of the childhood stage at all. I was choosing my own clothes (and can dress quite nicely for events) and wearing makeup when I was a teenager. Liz still isn't capable of these things, and we're supposed to believe that she's even capable of handling a relationship?
Unfortunately, because of the things I mentioned above, it detracted from the mystery. Every time it progressed, Liz did (or wore) something else that just seemed unreal. In real life, if a bunch of people saw her in those pajamas, they wouldn't think it was cute; they'd wonder what was wrong with her.
We were also given no clues at all to the killer until the very end. We weren't given a chance to figure it out for ourselves - which is why we read mysteries. Most of the book was centered on Liz and her love life; less on the mystery. Other than that, it was a decent cozy and can be read in one evening.
June 7, 2018
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for providing a complementary advance copy of Death of a Russian Doll by Barbara Early in exchange for an honest review. This is the third book in the Vintage Toy Shop mystery series and my introduction to the series. The mystery is self-contained and does not require having read previous books, although there may be some character development that was done in earlier books that is not repeated here.
The pacing is good and the book is an easy one to read in a matter of a few hours. It is well constructed with clues peppered throughout for the most part. It was fairly easy for me to figure out the perpetrator of this mystery.
Characters and places remained two-dimensional for me in a style that did more telling the story than creating a picture where I could see the location and the individuals residing within it. While it held together well, I prefer a writing style that lets me see the people and the places more vividly. The protagonist was a confusing mixture of immature traits such as footed pajamas, questionable ability to dress herself for adult situations, living in an apartment with her father who still cuts her hair on the one hand and more mature traits such as serious dating that may lead to more permanent relationships on the other. None of the characters evoked strong emotion in me one way or the other.
The final, definitive clue regarding the villain of the piece is one that is actually delivered in the last pages of the book, which prevents the reader from having an honest chance to solve the mystery based on clues throughout the story. As a reader who likes to solve the puzzle of a mystery, this feels a little like cheating.
This book is easy to pick up and put down while engaging in other activities, and as such may be an excellent read for someone involved in other activities or who wants something to occupy the mind without having to tax the memory. If you are looking for something that will have you on the edge of your seat and frantically turning the pages to see what happens next, you might find this one disappointing.
The pacing is good and the book is an easy one to read in a matter of a few hours. It is well constructed with clues peppered throughout for the most part. It was fairly easy for me to figure out the perpetrator of this mystery.
Characters and places remained two-dimensional for me in a style that did more telling the story than creating a picture where I could see the location and the individuals residing within it. While it held together well, I prefer a writing style that lets me see the people and the places more vividly. The protagonist was a confusing mixture of immature traits such as footed pajamas, questionable ability to dress herself for adult situations, living in an apartment with her father who still cuts her hair on the one hand and more mature traits such as serious dating that may lead to more permanent relationships on the other. None of the characters evoked strong emotion in me one way or the other.
The final, definitive clue regarding the villain of the piece is one that is actually delivered in the last pages of the book, which prevents the reader from having an honest chance to solve the mystery based on clues throughout the story. As a reader who likes to solve the puzzle of a mystery, this feels a little like cheating.
This book is easy to pick up and put down while engaging in other activities, and as such may be an excellent read for someone involved in other activities or who wants something to occupy the mind without having to tax the memory. If you are looking for something that will have you on the edge of your seat and frantically turning the pages to see what happens next, you might find this one disappointing.
July 13, 2018
This is a murder mystery story set in a Western NY small town in the weeks before Christmas. Liz McCarry ends her romantic relationship with Ken Young, the town's chief of police, when his estranged wife Marya returns to reconcile with him. He had failed to tell Liz that he was married and she feels betrayed. Marya is cast as a villain by the town and works hard to make friends. Unfortunately she ends up dead, strangled by the cord of her hairdryer.
Liz is the narrator of the story of the search for the murderer. Her father is the former police chief and is assigned the task of leading the police investigation of the murder. Ken is suspended from duty due to him being a suspect. Liz has mixed feelings about Ken because of his deceit about his marriage, but she feels he is not a murderer despite a lot of circumstantial evidence against him. She wants to find evidence to confirm his innocence and persuades her father to allow her to look into the killing. Marya turns out to have a checkered background: she emigrated from Russia at an early age and may have entered the US illegally. There's suggestions that she may be involved in drug dealing or money laundering. Solving the mystery makes for an interesting story with a dramatic conclusion and a generally happy ending.
There's a cast of interesting small town characters, although none other than Liz's father plays a major role in the story. Despite that they make for good background and local colour. The Christmas season events add a festive touch.
I found it to be a superior cozy murder mystery and an enjoyable read. It is the third of a series and easily can be read as a standalone.
Recommended.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for an eBook copy of this book. The views expressed are my own.
Liz is the narrator of the story of the search for the murderer. Her father is the former police chief and is assigned the task of leading the police investigation of the murder. Ken is suspended from duty due to him being a suspect. Liz has mixed feelings about Ken because of his deceit about his marriage, but she feels he is not a murderer despite a lot of circumstantial evidence against him. She wants to find evidence to confirm his innocence and persuades her father to allow her to look into the killing. Marya turns out to have a checkered background: she emigrated from Russia at an early age and may have entered the US illegally. There's suggestions that she may be involved in drug dealing or money laundering. Solving the mystery makes for an interesting story with a dramatic conclusion and a generally happy ending.
There's a cast of interesting small town characters, although none other than Liz's father plays a major role in the story. Despite that they make for good background and local colour. The Christmas season events add a festive touch.
I found it to be a superior cozy murder mystery and an enjoyable read. It is the third of a series and easily can be read as a standalone.
Recommended.
Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and Netgalley for an eBook copy of this book. The views expressed are my own.
July 16, 2018
Death of a Russian Doll is the third installment in the Vintage Toyshop Mystery series featuring Liz McCall, manager of her father's vintage toy shop in East Aurora, NY. Liz is still reeling from the surprise of her life when the estranged wife of Police Chief Ken Young (who Liz was happily dating) appeared in town and the two decided to get back together, leaving Liz embarrassed and out in the cold.
Determined to get over her heartbreak, Liz, her father Hank, and sister in law Cathy come up with a plan to restore old dolls and donate them to charity. Liz is not too happy when Marya, Ken's wife joins the committee. Marya has taken over the barbershop next door though so Liz can't exactly avoid the woman, and she does do a good job with hair so when the rest of the committee begs Liz to let her participate she figures why not.
Accidentally overhearing an argument between Ken and Marya, Liz doesn't know what to think when later that night she hears screaming and finds Ken standing over Marya's dead body. Despite her feelings towards him, Liz is convinced that the one thing he is not is a killer. The Mayor decides to remove Ken from the case for personal reasons, and reinstates Hank, who is the retired Chief of Police. Desperate to help her father wrap up the case and get back to his retirement, and clear her own name off the suspect list, Liz sets out to track down a killer with the help of her family and Mark Baker, the hunky forensic accountant employed by the FBI.
A fast paced plot features the return of series regulars, plenty of suspects and just the right amount of romance. A twist at the end will have readers looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an advanced copy of Death of a Russian Doll from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
Determined to get over her heartbreak, Liz, her father Hank, and sister in law Cathy come up with a plan to restore old dolls and donate them to charity. Liz is not too happy when Marya, Ken's wife joins the committee. Marya has taken over the barbershop next door though so Liz can't exactly avoid the woman, and she does do a good job with hair so when the rest of the committee begs Liz to let her participate she figures why not.
Accidentally overhearing an argument between Ken and Marya, Liz doesn't know what to think when later that night she hears screaming and finds Ken standing over Marya's dead body. Despite her feelings towards him, Liz is convinced that the one thing he is not is a killer. The Mayor decides to remove Ken from the case for personal reasons, and reinstates Hank, who is the retired Chief of Police. Desperate to help her father wrap up the case and get back to his retirement, and clear her own name off the suspect list, Liz sets out to track down a killer with the help of her family and Mark Baker, the hunky forensic accountant employed by the FBI.
A fast paced plot features the return of series regulars, plenty of suspects and just the right amount of romance. A twist at the end will have readers looking forward to the next in the series.
I received an advanced copy of Death of a Russian Doll from NetGalley via Crooked Lane Books. While not required to write a review I am more than happy to offer my honest opinion.
October 9, 2018
Christmas is on the horizon and Liz McCall has her hands full, physically and emotionally - she helps run the family's vintage toy store, Well Played and is working on a holiday project to rehab dolls for kids. That should be enough for anybody but, not in the world of Liz. Her boyfriend let her think that his ex was ex as in divorced, not in the sense of estranged. Huge difference and that's why he's now her ex boyfriend. On top of that, said estranged wife, a gorgeous Russian, no less, shows up in town, eager to rekindle the romantic sparks and reclaim her husband, Police Chief Ken Young. To make matters worse for Liz, Marya (the ex/estranged woman in question) is going to be working right next door at the hair salon and then she offers to help Liz with her doll project. Next thing Liz knows, Marya is found murdered and yep, all fingers start to point at Ken, The spouse is always prime suspect #1. As he is the police chief, too, he must step aside and Liz's father, the retired police chief, is called into the case. Of course, Liz becomes part of the investigation but not in the annoying fashion of so many amateur sleuths. She is her father's daughter and she knows the drill. She's also a bit of a chip off the old block, she's good at investigating. As for her personal life, will there be more romance for Liz? and with whom? Stay tuned for more to come - I hope we find out in the next book.
This is the third in the delightful series and, to get the most out of it, by all means read them all but, if you are new to the series, Death of a Russian Doll can be read as a stand alone. But be warned, you will want to go back and read the previous two mysteries. I will most definitely read the next book.
My thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
This is the third in the delightful series and, to get the most out of it, by all means read them all but, if you are new to the series, Death of a Russian Doll can be read as a stand alone. But be warned, you will want to go back and read the previous two mysteries. I will most definitely read the next book.
My thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
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