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Whisky Business Mystery #3
Deadly Dram
Distillery owner Abigail Logan discovers that high spirits are no match for a cold-blooded killer as the Whisky Business Mystery series puts a fatal twist on stiff competition.
It’s been a year since globe-trotting photojournalist Abi Logan inherited Abbey Glen, a whisky distillery in the heart of the Scottish countryside. To her surprise, the village of Balfour already feels like home, and her new business partner, Grant MacEwan, continues to be too charming to resist. But Abi has a history of relationship disasters, so she struggles to avoid an ill-fated romance with Grant. Steering clear is hard enough on a day-to-day basis, but when the two head off to a whisky industry competition together, Abi panics. Five-star resort, four glorious days of nonstop whisky tasting, and a fatally attractive Scotsman—what could possibly go wrong?
The night before the award presentations, with foreign and domestic whisky makers at one anothers’ throats, two judges are found dead under mysterious circumstances. What started with three dream-come-true nominations for Abby Glen’s whisky soon turns into a nightmare for Abi. With a killer on the loose, she must call on her investigative skills to stop another murder—before she gets taken out of the running herself.
Melinda Mullet’s delightful Whisky Business mysteries can be read together or separately. Enjoy responsibly:
SINGLE MALT MURDER | DEATH DISTILLED | DEADLY DRAM
It’s been a year since globe-trotting photojournalist Abi Logan inherited Abbey Glen, a whisky distillery in the heart of the Scottish countryside. To her surprise, the village of Balfour already feels like home, and her new business partner, Grant MacEwan, continues to be too charming to resist. But Abi has a history of relationship disasters, so she struggles to avoid an ill-fated romance with Grant. Steering clear is hard enough on a day-to-day basis, but when the two head off to a whisky industry competition together, Abi panics. Five-star resort, four glorious days of nonstop whisky tasting, and a fatally attractive Scotsman—what could possibly go wrong?
The night before the award presentations, with foreign and domestic whisky makers at one anothers’ throats, two judges are found dead under mysterious circumstances. What started with three dream-come-true nominations for Abby Glen’s whisky soon turns into a nightmare for Abi. With a killer on the loose, she must call on her investigative skills to stop another murder—before she gets taken out of the running herself.
Melinda Mullet’s delightful Whisky Business mysteries can be read together or separately. Enjoy responsibly:
SINGLE MALT MURDER | DEATH DISTILLED | DEADLY DRAM
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First published September 4, 2018
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About the author
Melinda Mullet
11 books284 followersMelinda Mullet is the author of the Whisky Business Mysteries, a six-part series of traditional mysteries set in and around a boutique single malt whisky distillery in Scotland. And coming in July 2025 the first of a new traditional series, A Ghostwriter’s Guide to Murder, set on a houseboat along the Regent’s Canal in London.
Melinda is a travel junkie and a life-long advocate for children’s literacy causes both domestic and international. When she is not in the UK, she lives just outside of Washington, DC with her whisky-collecting husband and two wild Covid canines named Bailey and Captain Jack. Find her at MelindaMullet.com or on Facebook and Insta at Melinda Mullet, Author.
Melinda is a travel junkie and a life-long advocate for children’s literacy causes both domestic and international. When she is not in the UK, she lives just outside of Washington, DC with her whisky-collecting husband and two wild Covid canines named Bailey and Captain Jack. Find her at MelindaMullet.com or on Facebook and Insta at Melinda Mullet, Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
January 18, 2020
Deadly Dram is the third book in the Whisky Business cozy mystery series written by Melinda Mullet and was published in 2018. The series takes place in Scotland with a focus on Abi Logan who's returned home from a photojournalism job to address the death of her uncle. In this third book, Abi's been co-running the distillery and is on a business trip to attend an award ceremony that might earn her company and whisky a valued prize. Members of the judging committee are murdered one by one which leaves Abi worried for her best friend, Patrick, who's now on the committee to make a final decision.
When I read the first book in the series, I was enamored with the culture, characters, charm, and setting of the books. I got pulled in many directions with other required reads and didn't catch up until recently on the second and third books, but I'm glad I did. They're just as wonderful (if not more) and really leave me thirsting for the fourth one which hopefully comes out in mid-2019. You're immediately transported to Scotland between the language, the background, and the complexity in all the relationships. I would love to read this book while driving around a distillery one day in the future just to feel even more connected.
The mystery is very strong. There are multiple suspects with a variety of motives. Just when you start suspecting someone, they end up dead. The side stories are intricately woven into the main story and ultimately all collide together. The romance angles are downplayed in the book, but there's a few sparks Abi shares with others. (When's Patrick gonna get his flirt on?) Liam (the dog) has a huge role and is such a well-fleshed out character, I could feel him running around at the inn. He might have been my favorite. Kudos to Mullet for giving me a fantastic Monday afternoon read and bringing me out of a small reading slump.
When I read the first book in the series, I was enamored with the culture, characters, charm, and setting of the books. I got pulled in many directions with other required reads and didn't catch up until recently on the second and third books, but I'm glad I did. They're just as wonderful (if not more) and really leave me thirsting for the fourth one which hopefully comes out in mid-2019. You're immediately transported to Scotland between the language, the background, and the complexity in all the relationships. I would love to read this book while driving around a distillery one day in the future just to feel even more connected.
The mystery is very strong. There are multiple suspects with a variety of motives. Just when you start suspecting someone, they end up dead. The side stories are intricately woven into the main story and ultimately all collide together. The romance angles are downplayed in the book, but there's a few sparks Abi shares with others. (When's Patrick gonna get his flirt on?) Liam (the dog) has a huge role and is such a well-fleshed out character, I could feel him running around at the inn. He might have been my favorite. Kudos to Mullet for giving me a fantastic Monday afternoon read and bringing me out of a small reading slump.
September 17, 2018
Deadly Dram is the 3rd book in the Whisky Business Mystery series. Abi Logan is still trying to make a name for herself in the whisky business after she inherited her uncle's distillery, Abbey Glen, 9 months ago. The good old boys network in the business (she calls them the Barley Bunch) just don't think a woman should be a distillery owner. She runs Abbey Glen with Grant MacEwen, her business partner, who is a magician with whisky. This year, everyone is pleased that Abbey Glen is up for 3 awards at the Golden Quaich Competition at a nearby 5-star resort. The distilleries aren't just in Scotland. There are whiskys competing from Ireland, India, Japan and other countries as well. Some of the Scottish distilleries are grumbling about foreigners being allowed to compete. Things get even more dicey when one of the event judges, Sir Richard Simpson, is found dead in his room. Local Detective Inspector Ian Michaelson suspects foul play. Was Simpson killed because he clearly was in favor of foreign distilleries competing in the Gold Quaich Awards? Did someone just intend to make him ill to throw off the competition, but accidentally go too far? Or is something more complex afoot?
I like this series. My favorite character is, of course, Liam...abi's wheaten terrier. And his friend Oscar the Sheep is a close second. ha ha :) I'm a sucker for cozies with cute animal antics in them. Liam is quite the cute little guy. Abi is an intelligent and resourceful main character. She has a great working relationship with Grant MacEwan, although their personal relationship is a bit confused. There is a bit of the relationship triangle plot device starting to come through in this series. That is one trope that I wish cozy writers would stop using. Surely there is another way to create a bit of romantic tension or slow relationship building between main characters without resorting to the Triangle Trope. Ugh. That's my only complaint about this latest book. Besides my eyeroll at the triangle starting to pop out on the horizon, I loved this entire book. The characters are interesting and nicely developed. The whisky background theme doesn't overpower the mystery, but adds to it. The romance hints are kept in the background, with the mystery being in the forefront. The plot moved at a nice pace, with plenty of interesting suspects and some twists I didn't see coming at all. Loved it! I will definitely keep reading this series. I love the setting, the information on whisky and distilling, and the characters. :)
The next book in the series, Died in the Wool, will be out in May 2019.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Random House Publishing/Alibi via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
I like this series. My favorite character is, of course, Liam...abi's wheaten terrier. And his friend Oscar the Sheep is a close second. ha ha :) I'm a sucker for cozies with cute animal antics in them. Liam is quite the cute little guy. Abi is an intelligent and resourceful main character. She has a great working relationship with Grant MacEwan, although their personal relationship is a bit confused. There is a bit of the relationship triangle plot device starting to come through in this series. That is one trope that I wish cozy writers would stop using. Surely there is another way to create a bit of romantic tension or slow relationship building between main characters without resorting to the Triangle Trope. Ugh. That's my only complaint about this latest book. Besides my eyeroll at the triangle starting to pop out on the horizon, I loved this entire book. The characters are interesting and nicely developed. The whisky background theme doesn't overpower the mystery, but adds to it. The romance hints are kept in the background, with the mystery being in the forefront. The plot moved at a nice pace, with plenty of interesting suspects and some twists I didn't see coming at all. Loved it! I will definitely keep reading this series. I love the setting, the information on whisky and distilling, and the characters. :)
The next book in the series, Died in the Wool, will be out in May 2019.
**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Random House Publishing/Alibi via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
June 21, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Abigail Logan still has a lot to learn about being a distillery owner but she is really making herself at home in Balfour. She is trying to keep her mind on Whisky business, but when she and her business partner, Grant MacEwan attend a whisky competition at a 5-star resort she may not be able to resist his charms. Then before the Golden Quaich competition begins, where several Abbey Glen Whiskys are up for awards 2 of the judges are killed. DI Ian Michaelson asks for Abi’s help as a photographer to take pictures of the crime scenes. Her keen observation skills see things other people don’t and she soon finds herself investigating. If she is not careful, she may be the killer’s next victim.
Abigail Logan is a wonderful protagonist. Smart, strong, and independent. She has taken on the job as owner of the distillery quite well. She has a great team helping her and teaching her everything about the whiskey business. She is still trying to keep Grant in the friend zone, but there is no denying the chemistry there. Grant stole my heart long ago so I am rooting for them to have a relationship that works. Her friend Patrick redeemed himself for me in this story. I wasn’t so fond of him in the last one. I really enjoy the friendship between Abi and Katherine McRae. Their shopping trip to get Abi the right clothes was fun to read. I also enjoyed that the resort allowed pets so Liam could go too. He was on his best behavior, for the most part 🙂
The story is set at a whisky convention so we are introduced to several characters. The author does an excellent job of making them each unique so I was able to get to know them pretty quickly. There was a character that returned from a prior story too, it was great to have him cross Abi’s path again. As always a certain 4-legged character gives the story some laughs.
This mystery had a whole resort full of suspects, some were easily eliminated but others needed more investigation. Ms. Mullet has a great talent for misdirecting her readers which makes following along with Abi and her friends so entertaining. She ratchets up the suspense at the perfect time and gives readers a great conclusion. She also gives us just a little cliffhanger that leaves as longing for the next book.
I love the way she sets a scene. She describes everything in a way that puts you right there in the room or out in the countryside. She also educates her readers about Whisky and I love learning new things when I am reading. I like whiskey but have never had Scottish whisky. I may have to rectify that soon.
For me, this was A Perfect Escape!! A stellar mystery with great characters set in a beautiful place. I can’t wait for my next visit! Died in the Wool: A Whisky Business Mystery comes out May 14, 2019.
Abigail Logan still has a lot to learn about being a distillery owner but she is really making herself at home in Balfour. She is trying to keep her mind on Whisky business, but when she and her business partner, Grant MacEwan attend a whisky competition at a 5-star resort she may not be able to resist his charms. Then before the Golden Quaich competition begins, where several Abbey Glen Whiskys are up for awards 2 of the judges are killed. DI Ian Michaelson asks for Abi’s help as a photographer to take pictures of the crime scenes. Her keen observation skills see things other people don’t and she soon finds herself investigating. If she is not careful, she may be the killer’s next victim.
Abigail Logan is a wonderful protagonist. Smart, strong, and independent. She has taken on the job as owner of the distillery quite well. She has a great team helping her and teaching her everything about the whiskey business. She is still trying to keep Grant in the friend zone, but there is no denying the chemistry there. Grant stole my heart long ago so I am rooting for them to have a relationship that works. Her friend Patrick redeemed himself for me in this story. I wasn’t so fond of him in the last one. I really enjoy the friendship between Abi and Katherine McRae. Their shopping trip to get Abi the right clothes was fun to read. I also enjoyed that the resort allowed pets so Liam could go too. He was on his best behavior, for the most part 🙂
The story is set at a whisky convention so we are introduced to several characters. The author does an excellent job of making them each unique so I was able to get to know them pretty quickly. There was a character that returned from a prior story too, it was great to have him cross Abi’s path again. As always a certain 4-legged character gives the story some laughs.
This mystery had a whole resort full of suspects, some were easily eliminated but others needed more investigation. Ms. Mullet has a great talent for misdirecting her readers which makes following along with Abi and her friends so entertaining. She ratchets up the suspense at the perfect time and gives readers a great conclusion. She also gives us just a little cliffhanger that leaves as longing for the next book.
I love the way she sets a scene. She describes everything in a way that puts you right there in the room or out in the countryside. She also educates her readers about Whisky and I love learning new things when I am reading. I like whiskey but have never had Scottish whisky. I may have to rectify that soon.
For me, this was A Perfect Escape!! A stellar mystery with great characters set in a beautiful place. I can’t wait for my next visit! Died in the Wool: A Whisky Business Mystery comes out May 14, 2019.
August 13, 2018
The third book in the Whiskey Business Mystery has Abi Logan attending a 4 days of competition of Whiskey makers at a 5 star resort. Abby Glen has several nominations. She takes her dog, Liam who soon is known throughout the meeting because of his antics. Grant MacEwan, her business partner is next door to her. Before the judging begins two of the judges are poisoned with nicotine. Abi works with homicide detective as he is short of staff. Finding a motive is difficult as the judges had no enemies were well like by their peers. Liam is enjoying himself running with the kennel dogs and getting treats from all the participants.Will Lindsey and her friends managed to save a life? I am looking forward to,the next book.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Alibi for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: Many thanks to Alibi for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 8, 2018
Deadly Dram is the third book in the Whisky Business Mystery series.
Time is getting close for the annual Golden Quaich Awards for the best Whiskys. Grant MacEwen, manager/co-owner of Abbey Glen Distillery and Cam Lewis, the distiller, have finally convinced Abi that she needs to attend, especially since Abbey Glen is up for the top award this year. As Abi is greeting friends from the past and making new ones, she soon learns that there seems to be those in attendance that feel the awards should be for Scotch produced in Scotland. She also gets the impression that possibly there is a plan to make sure Scotland brewed Scotch will win. Soon the body of Sir Richard Simpson is found dead in his room by the maid, Sophie. An autopsy shows that he had died of nicotine poisoning. Detective Inspector Ian Michaelson arrives to begin his investigation and, since he has worked with Abi before, asks her to take pictures of the room and to keep her ears open for any information that might be helpful. Then a second judge is killed in the same manner. Michaelson and Abi are stymied as to whether these deaths are related to the award program or possibly a business transaction that happened to involve the two judges.
The story is well written and plotted and has a wonderful cast of believable characters. Abi’s adorable dog, Liam, is back once again to provide some lighter moments.
I’m looking forward to the next to next book in this great series. I’m anxious to see what is happening with Abi and Grant.
Time is getting close for the annual Golden Quaich Awards for the best Whiskys. Grant MacEwen, manager/co-owner of Abbey Glen Distillery and Cam Lewis, the distiller, have finally convinced Abi that she needs to attend, especially since Abbey Glen is up for the top award this year. As Abi is greeting friends from the past and making new ones, she soon learns that there seems to be those in attendance that feel the awards should be for Scotch produced in Scotland. She also gets the impression that possibly there is a plan to make sure Scotland brewed Scotch will win. Soon the body of Sir Richard Simpson is found dead in his room by the maid, Sophie. An autopsy shows that he had died of nicotine poisoning. Detective Inspector Ian Michaelson arrives to begin his investigation and, since he has worked with Abi before, asks her to take pictures of the room and to keep her ears open for any information that might be helpful. Then a second judge is killed in the same manner. Michaelson and Abi are stymied as to whether these deaths are related to the award program or possibly a business transaction that happened to involve the two judges.
The story is well written and plotted and has a wonderful cast of believable characters. Abi’s adorable dog, Liam, is back once again to provide some lighter moments.
I’m looking forward to the next to next book in this great series. I’m anxious to see what is happening with Abi and Grant.
September 17, 2018
Abigail Logan inherited a distillery from her beloved uncle a year ago. She already feels like part of the small Scottish town. Now, she’s thrown into the middle of a whisky competition and things get really heated when two judges are murdered. Abi throws herself right into the middle of the investigation since many of the suspects are good friends of hers. She is determined to get to the bottom of this.
To add a little more excitement to Abi’s life, her handsome business partner is getting harder to resist all the time. After some bad relationships in her past, Abi is not all that anxious to get involved with another guy. However, she can’t seem to get Grant out of her mind.
This is the third book in the Whisky Business Mystery series. I loved the first book, but I haven’t had a chance to read the second one yet. It didn’t matter to me,,,I enjoyed this one very much. The author includes info throughout the book about incidents that occurred previously, so I never felt like I was in the dark.
The author did a great job of transporting me to Scotland and putting me right in the middle of all the action. I felt as if I was right by Abi’s side as we tried to figure out who the killer was. I got it partially correct, but I didn’t put all the pieces together until Abi did at the end.
It’s a captivating mystery with a cast of characters that are true-to-life and sometimes even a bit offbeat. Abi also has a lovable dog named Liam, who accompanies her most of the time. He does manage to get himself in quite a bit of trouble, although he’s also a good partner for Abi’s investigative ways.
Overall, this is an engrossing mystery which is solved in this book. The mystery doesn’t carry over to the next book, although the personal relationships do. I always feel series books are more enjoyed when you start with the first one, but it’s really not necessary if you are looking for a good mystery. I’m greatly anticipating the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
To add a little more excitement to Abi’s life, her handsome business partner is getting harder to resist all the time. After some bad relationships in her past, Abi is not all that anxious to get involved with another guy. However, she can’t seem to get Grant out of her mind.
This is the third book in the Whisky Business Mystery series. I loved the first book, but I haven’t had a chance to read the second one yet. It didn’t matter to me,,,I enjoyed this one very much. The author includes info throughout the book about incidents that occurred previously, so I never felt like I was in the dark.
The author did a great job of transporting me to Scotland and putting me right in the middle of all the action. I felt as if I was right by Abi’s side as we tried to figure out who the killer was. I got it partially correct, but I didn’t put all the pieces together until Abi did at the end.
It’s a captivating mystery with a cast of characters that are true-to-life and sometimes even a bit offbeat. Abi also has a lovable dog named Liam, who accompanies her most of the time. He does manage to get himself in quite a bit of trouble, although he’s also a good partner for Abi’s investigative ways.
Overall, this is an engrossing mystery which is solved in this book. The mystery doesn’t carry over to the next book, although the personal relationships do. I always feel series books are more enjoyed when you start with the first one, but it’s really not necessary if you are looking for a good mystery. I’m greatly anticipating the next book in this series.
FTC Disclosure: I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 22, 2018
This is a series that has quickly become one I look forward to reading. It has a unique theme, the characters are smart, mature and the mysteries always keep me engaged. Abi is a smart, mature, independent woman who makes a good amateur sleuth. Her profession as a journalist has given her insight into human nature which she often relies on in conjunction with Detective Michelson's reliance on evidence to help solve the mystery. The mystery kept me engaged with the twist and turns throughout the story. The killer's identity, for me, was a surprise but the motive behind the killings was believable resulting in a satisfactory ending.
I will be back to see what the author has in store next for these characters. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Alibi, through Netgalley.
I will be back to see what the author has in store next for these characters. I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Alibi, through Netgalley.
August 1, 2018
I would give this 4 and a half stars if that were an option.
Sometimes you just want a simple murder, or two, perpetrated in the company of interesting characters, some likeable some not so much, and all wrapped up in a welcoming setting that beckons you to come inside and spend some time. That’s what Deadly Dram by Melinda Mullet was for me. It was a welcome respite, the perfect stress reliever; like curling up in front of a warm fire in a pair of comfy sweats in winter or sitting out on the balcony of a beachside condo with a relaxing cup of coffee in summer.
When the book opens, Abi Logan, former award-winning news photographer and newly minted distillery owner, is preparing to attend the judging and awards ceremony for the year’s best Scotch whiskey which this year is being held at a posh resort in Scotland. She and Liam, her delightfully engaging Wheaten terrier, check in to the dog-friendly resort and settle in for a few days of luxurious living, whiskey sampling and, of course, a couple of murders to add to the enjoyment.
As expected, this is a mystery novel after all, one of the guests is murdered and suspicions abound as to why. Is it because of rivalries between Scottish distilleries and newcomer foreign one? Is it the age-old issue of money and inheritance? Is it something else more obscure? Initially Abi is drawn in partially because her friend is in the group of suspects and partially because she was asked to photograph the scene of the crime by the police detective in charge of the case.
The means for the murder is clear, nicotine poisoning, it’s the motive and opportunity that Abi spends her time exploring. As in any good mystery novel, clues and red herrings abound with Abi traveling first down one path and then another. The final piece of the puzzle isn’t revealed until the last night of the competition and Abi is pressed into action to prevent yet another murder.
This is the third in a series of books featuring Abi, but it stands alone with ease. You do not need to read the first two in order to enjoy the mystery. There are some interesting secondary characters who help round out the story, although they don’t get much attention and as such their depth is more hinted at than fully explored. There is also a love story that is left hanging which adds little to the story and serves more as a hook for the next book in the series. These are minor detractions and do not negatively impact the enjoyment of the murder and its solution as the reader is given ample opportunity to solve the question of “who done it” before reaching the denouement.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Alibi for providing this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. Overall, this is an outstanding example of cozy fiction, well written and smart. If the first two Whiskey Business Mysteries are as well-written, this is series well-worth exploring.
Sometimes you just want a simple murder, or two, perpetrated in the company of interesting characters, some likeable some not so much, and all wrapped up in a welcoming setting that beckons you to come inside and spend some time. That’s what Deadly Dram by Melinda Mullet was for me. It was a welcome respite, the perfect stress reliever; like curling up in front of a warm fire in a pair of comfy sweats in winter or sitting out on the balcony of a beachside condo with a relaxing cup of coffee in summer.
When the book opens, Abi Logan, former award-winning news photographer and newly minted distillery owner, is preparing to attend the judging and awards ceremony for the year’s best Scotch whiskey which this year is being held at a posh resort in Scotland. She and Liam, her delightfully engaging Wheaten terrier, check in to the dog-friendly resort and settle in for a few days of luxurious living, whiskey sampling and, of course, a couple of murders to add to the enjoyment.
As expected, this is a mystery novel after all, one of the guests is murdered and suspicions abound as to why. Is it because of rivalries between Scottish distilleries and newcomer foreign one? Is it the age-old issue of money and inheritance? Is it something else more obscure? Initially Abi is drawn in partially because her friend is in the group of suspects and partially because she was asked to photograph the scene of the crime by the police detective in charge of the case.
The means for the murder is clear, nicotine poisoning, it’s the motive and opportunity that Abi spends her time exploring. As in any good mystery novel, clues and red herrings abound with Abi traveling first down one path and then another. The final piece of the puzzle isn’t revealed until the last night of the competition and Abi is pressed into action to prevent yet another murder.
This is the third in a series of books featuring Abi, but it stands alone with ease. You do not need to read the first two in order to enjoy the mystery. There are some interesting secondary characters who help round out the story, although they don’t get much attention and as such their depth is more hinted at than fully explored. There is also a love story that is left hanging which adds little to the story and serves more as a hook for the next book in the series. These are minor detractions and do not negatively impact the enjoyment of the murder and its solution as the reader is given ample opportunity to solve the question of “who done it” before reaching the denouement.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Alibi for providing this advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review. Overall, this is an outstanding example of cozy fiction, well written and smart. If the first two Whiskey Business Mysteries are as well-written, this is series well-worth exploring.
September 4, 2018
*I received a free copy of this book which I voluntarily chose to write an honest review for.
What a wonderful cozy mystery with a nice whiskey theme to it. I learned quite a bit about the entire process while reading it I must say. Abigail is on her way to a fancy lodge for an award competition for the distillery. Nervous enough about going to begin with things just get worse when Liam starts causing his own brand of trouble. As if that is not enough the judges start dropping like flies and a surprise victim as well just to make things a little more emotionally wrenching for Abi. This is a very well written mystery peppered with details amongst the suspense, laughter, and intrigued. The mix of it all creates a truly wonderful cozy that you will not want to put down. I highly recommend it to fans of the genre. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
What a wonderful cozy mystery with a nice whiskey theme to it. I learned quite a bit about the entire process while reading it I must say. Abigail is on her way to a fancy lodge for an award competition for the distillery. Nervous enough about going to begin with things just get worse when Liam starts causing his own brand of trouble. As if that is not enough the judges start dropping like flies and a surprise victim as well just to make things a little more emotionally wrenching for Abi. This is a very well written mystery peppered with details amongst the suspense, laughter, and intrigued. The mix of it all creates a truly wonderful cozy that you will not want to put down. I highly recommend it to fans of the genre. I really liked it so I give it 4/5 stars.
January 14, 2020
One of the last of the reviews I have to make up from Netgalley
I can't believe this is the third book in this series already, seems like only yesterday Abi showed up to take over her uncle's whisky distillery. In this book, Abi and the distillery gang heads to a whisky competition and on the first night, a competition judge turns up dead, poisoned. As Abi races to discover how is behind the poisoning, another judge is found dead, also by poisoning. As she closes in on the killer, her partner Grant is poisoned after borrowing Abi's toothpaste and is hospitalized. There was no shortage of suspects in this one, most of whom had their own interrelated paths that wove a tangled web into the investigation. Bit by bit, Abi untangled the knots but not before two men died and her business partner (and romantic interest) nearly died. I liked the police inspector, Michaelson, had more background added, making him more a part of the story than in the other books. The addition of Breanna, Grant's ex-girlfriend also added another layer and looks like she will be in further books.
The explosive ending was by far the best part. I had an inkling who the murderer was around halfway or two thirds through the book, and I wanted to smack Abi and tell her she was on the wrong track. Still, it was an exciting ending and a great cap to a great book.
I have one small complaint: No, you cannot go to the store and buy a bottle of vape juice and poison someone with it. Also, vape juice is not nicotine with flavoring added, there also PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin) added. Nicotine is also already diluted when you buy it, usually with PG, but sometimes with VG and in varying concentrations. With all the hoopla in the news lately about how "vaping is killing people" it isn't and considering how many people have stopped smoking cigarettes with vaping (I'm one of them) I hate to see misinformation being spread. It's bad enough in the media, but I've read a couple of books with this as a plot device and it's unacceptable.
I can't believe this is the third book in this series already, seems like only yesterday Abi showed up to take over her uncle's whisky distillery. In this book, Abi and the distillery gang heads to a whisky competition and on the first night, a competition judge turns up dead, poisoned. As Abi races to discover how is behind the poisoning, another judge is found dead, also by poisoning. As she closes in on the killer, her partner Grant is poisoned after borrowing Abi's toothpaste and is hospitalized. There was no shortage of suspects in this one, most of whom had their own interrelated paths that wove a tangled web into the investigation. Bit by bit, Abi untangled the knots but not before two men died and her business partner (and romantic interest) nearly died. I liked the police inspector, Michaelson, had more background added, making him more a part of the story than in the other books. The addition of Breanna, Grant's ex-girlfriend also added another layer and looks like she will be in further books.
The explosive ending was by far the best part. I had an inkling who the murderer was around halfway or two thirds through the book, and I wanted to smack Abi and tell her she was on the wrong track. Still, it was an exciting ending and a great cap to a great book.
I have one small complaint: No, you cannot go to the store and buy a bottle of vape juice and poison someone with it. Also, vape juice is not nicotine with flavoring added, there also PG (propylene glycol) and VG (vegetable glycerin) added. Nicotine is also already diluted when you buy it, usually with PG, but sometimes with VG and in varying concentrations. With all the hoopla in the news lately about how "vaping is killing people" it isn't and considering how many people have stopped smoking cigarettes with vaping (I'm one of them) I hate to see misinformation being spread. It's bad enough in the media, but I've read a couple of books with this as a plot device and it's unacceptable.
October 30, 2018
This installment found Abi and Grant away from their home estates at a luxury hotel where a distillery competition was taking place. It was a huge honor for Abbey Glen to have been nominated, and Abi hoped she'd represent her business well. Her friend Patrick was there as usual. And as usual, there were a couple of murders of two of the competition judges to solve.
By now, Deputy Inspector Michaelson had come to (he wouldn't admit it though) depend on Abi for her insight since she was formerly a photo journalist. This book had them almost seeming like friends, and Michaelson seemed more human when he shared his personal issue of his daughter turning 14 and the fact that he had no idea what to do for her or get her.
It was well-written and plotted as were the first two in the series, and everything was wrapped up and explained. I did have an idea of who the killer might be, but it was honestly a guess since everyone was concentrating harder on other suspects. I didn't have a clue what the reason would be, so it was still a pretty cool showdown. Poor Abi seems so unlucky in love. Once again she's not be interested in Grant when she should have been. Maybe in the next book? I loved that Liam her Wheaton terrier got to go to the hotel too and even had some playdates with the hunting dogs there.
By now, Deputy Inspector Michaelson had come to (he wouldn't admit it though) depend on Abi for her insight since she was formerly a photo journalist. This book had them almost seeming like friends, and Michaelson seemed more human when he shared his personal issue of his daughter turning 14 and the fact that he had no idea what to do for her or get her.
It was well-written and plotted as were the first two in the series, and everything was wrapped up and explained. I did have an idea of who the killer might be, but it was honestly a guess since everyone was concentrating harder on other suspects. I didn't have a clue what the reason would be, so it was still a pretty cool showdown. Poor Abi seems so unlucky in love. Once again she's not be interested in Grant when she should have been. Maybe in the next book? I loved that Liam her Wheaton terrier got to go to the hotel too and even had some playdates with the hunting dogs there.
September 26, 2018
Abigail Logan, co-owner of Abbey Glen Distillery, attends a special whiskey competition at a luxury resort with her partner, Grant, and dog, Liam. Unfortunately, some of the judges are dying in dubious circumstances. As she tries to get a toehold in the male-dominated whiskey distillery business, it becomes necessary to investigate to keep her friends and her friends safe. The setting in Scotland provides an interesting background, The characters developed and interesting, and the plot fair and intriguing. Well done! I'll be back for Abi's next adventure.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2018
I like the series and the characters but I can’t understand why there have to be a triangle setting between Grant and Abi. I wished that would stop in all the cozy mystery series. Didn’t you have other ideas to make the two of them work? I don’t like to read something like that and I really don’t know if book 4 is on my preorder list for long.
September 28, 2018
Better than the last one.
But the love triangle plot is awful.
We already have enough going against them, all the killings, her job, her neurosis. Why add another person in the mix?
I might not read the next one.
But the love triangle plot is awful.
We already have enough going against them, all the killings, her job, her neurosis. Why add another person in the mix?
I might not read the next one.
October 7, 2018
Abi Logan is a photojournalist who has just returned from a month in Iceland. After being home for a few days she's starting to rethink her career choices, especially since she's inherited a distillery that's one of the best in Scotland. She's also attracted to her partner Grant McEwan, who hasn't hidden the fact that he's attracted to her as well. But since she has a lousy relationship history (she, for some reason, doesn't think this has to do with her traveling all the time!) she's determined to stay away from him.
So it's that much harder when they, along with her friend Patrick, have to attend a whisky industry competition together. Armed with a new wardrobe (with the help of the local veterinarian) she's sure everything will go swimmingly. But when someone is killing off the judges and Patrick looks as if he might be the culprit, Abi must use all her sleuthing ability to ferret out a murderer before he's the one losing everything..
I really wanted to like this book, and for the most part I did. Ms. Mullet draws beautiful descriptions of everything going on around Abi, of the countryside, etc.; so much so that you can imagine being there yourself. Her characterizations of people are also wonderful, giving us a feeling for who they are. I liked the plot line, and thought everything was very well written.
However, I don't know if I'll read any more in this series, and the reasons why are in spoilers below (since I don't want to ruin this for those who have no read it as yet):
If you've read the spoiler, then you know my final thoughts on the book and the ending, so there isn't much left to say. Other than that, if you're inclined this is a decent book that can be read in one sitting.
So it's that much harder when they, along with her friend Patrick, have to attend a whisky industry competition together. Armed with a new wardrobe (with the help of the local veterinarian) she's sure everything will go swimmingly. But when someone is killing off the judges and Patrick looks as if he might be the culprit, Abi must use all her sleuthing ability to ferret out a murderer before he's the one losing everything..
I really wanted to like this book, and for the most part I did. Ms. Mullet draws beautiful descriptions of everything going on around Abi, of the countryside, etc.; so much so that you can imagine being there yourself. Her characterizations of people are also wonderful, giving us a feeling for who they are. I liked the plot line, and thought everything was very well written.
However, I don't know if I'll read any more in this series, and the reasons why are in spoilers below (since I don't want to ruin this for those who have no read it as yet):
If you've read the spoiler, then you know my final thoughts on the book and the ending, so there isn't much left to say. Other than that, if you're inclined this is a decent book that can be read in one sitting.
October 3, 2018
“Deadly Dram” earns 5/5 Whisky Barrels…Filled with Engaging Fun!
In the cozy genre, no matter your interest or passion, you can always find a theme to interest you. From sweet and savory culinary treats and businesses to indoor and outdoor hobbies and sports, from paranormal and magical to some with a bit of both, the genre has brought in fans of all backgrounds and ages. I was drawn to Melinda Mullet’s series because of her unique theme surrounding a whisky distillery…I'll have mine “neat.” I started with “Deadly Dram,” her third book, knowing that the background and characters have already been established. However, I wasn't disappointed because she provided enough references, without spoilers, to keep me engaged and eager to read the first two books. Ok, it's Scotland (Of course, I saw the lack of an “e” in whisky), and Abigail Logan, with her hunky “Braveheart” partner, will be attending a whisky competition for which their efforts have been rewarded with three “Golden Quaich” nominations. However, along with personal attractions that complicate Abi’s business relationship with Grant MacEwen, she is met with snarky comments about woman in the business, debates over allowing foreign distilleries to compete, cutthroat contestants, and murder! What a page turner that, along with an engaging look into the whisky distillery community, includes a clever mystery beyond the traditional cozy formula. She has created wonderful characters, some fun animal antics, a budding romance fraught with complexities, loads of suspects with motives, humor, peril, and a satisfying conclusion. I thoroughly enjoy any bonuses an author can add to my cozy experience, and the references to all things whisky were all Google-worthy topics to explore, but I would have really enjoyed a recipe or two that highlighted “whisky” as an ingredient. Just saying…
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
In the cozy genre, no matter your interest or passion, you can always find a theme to interest you. From sweet and savory culinary treats and businesses to indoor and outdoor hobbies and sports, from paranormal and magical to some with a bit of both, the genre has brought in fans of all backgrounds and ages. I was drawn to Melinda Mullet’s series because of her unique theme surrounding a whisky distillery…I'll have mine “neat.” I started with “Deadly Dram,” her third book, knowing that the background and characters have already been established. However, I wasn't disappointed because she provided enough references, without spoilers, to keep me engaged and eager to read the first two books. Ok, it's Scotland (Of course, I saw the lack of an “e” in whisky), and Abigail Logan, with her hunky “Braveheart” partner, will be attending a whisky competition for which their efforts have been rewarded with three “Golden Quaich” nominations. However, along with personal attractions that complicate Abi’s business relationship with Grant MacEwen, she is met with snarky comments about woman in the business, debates over allowing foreign distilleries to compete, cutthroat contestants, and murder! What a page turner that, along with an engaging look into the whisky distillery community, includes a clever mystery beyond the traditional cozy formula. She has created wonderful characters, some fun animal antics, a budding romance fraught with complexities, loads of suspects with motives, humor, peril, and a satisfying conclusion. I thoroughly enjoy any bonuses an author can add to my cozy experience, and the references to all things whisky were all Google-worthy topics to explore, but I would have really enjoyed a recipe or two that highlighted “whisky” as an ingredient. Just saying…
"Disclosure: I received an ARC. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments."
September 14, 2018
DEADLY DRAM by Melinda Mullet
The Third Whisky Business Mystery
After some time away Abi Logan is back at Abbey Glen, just in time for the Golden Quaich Awards. What Abi first believed was a little competition among local distillers, is actually a four day international event held at a five star hotel, the outcomes of which can have a huge economic effect. When one of the judges is discovered dead the next morning the first thought was that too much good food and drink finally caught up with him. But could it have something to do with the fact that there were several international entries in the blind tasting this year, an offense to several of the Scots? The detective in charge suspects poison. Could Sir Richard's diatribe against the narrow minded view and limited palate of some of his fellow judges angered someone enough to kill him? Or is something more going on?
"You don't know what you got, till it's gone." While that phrase is the title of a Cinderella song from their second album, it could also be the theme for this second Whisky Business Mystery. DEADLY DRAM explores relationships old and new as it shines light into whisky competitions and awards. While providing a a fascinating look into the world of fine whisky and murder, it looks at the human emotions and motivations behind people's actions. The characters are akin to Abbey Glen's fine whiskys, some smooth, some big while others are subtle, but all complex. This complexity leads to an ingenious mystery with lots of possible victims as well as suspects. There is a serious nature to this series. It's a more adult novel. Yet Liam's antics provide plenty of laughs and a respite from the darkness inherent here.
DEADLY DRAM is a whisky drinking mystery lover's dream. You don't, however, need to be a fan of the drink to imbibe this wonderful mystery. Richly atmospheric and fastidiously plotted, DEADLY DRAM is a gold winner.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
The Third Whisky Business Mystery
After some time away Abi Logan is back at Abbey Glen, just in time for the Golden Quaich Awards. What Abi first believed was a little competition among local distillers, is actually a four day international event held at a five star hotel, the outcomes of which can have a huge economic effect. When one of the judges is discovered dead the next morning the first thought was that too much good food and drink finally caught up with him. But could it have something to do with the fact that there were several international entries in the blind tasting this year, an offense to several of the Scots? The detective in charge suspects poison. Could Sir Richard's diatribe against the narrow minded view and limited palate of some of his fellow judges angered someone enough to kill him? Or is something more going on?
"You don't know what you got, till it's gone." While that phrase is the title of a Cinderella song from their second album, it could also be the theme for this second Whisky Business Mystery. DEADLY DRAM explores relationships old and new as it shines light into whisky competitions and awards. While providing a a fascinating look into the world of fine whisky and murder, it looks at the human emotions and motivations behind people's actions. The characters are akin to Abbey Glen's fine whiskys, some smooth, some big while others are subtle, but all complex. This complexity leads to an ingenious mystery with lots of possible victims as well as suspects. There is a serious nature to this series. It's a more adult novel. Yet Liam's antics provide plenty of laughs and a respite from the darkness inherent here.
DEADLY DRAM is a whisky drinking mystery lover's dream. You don't, however, need to be a fan of the drink to imbibe this wonderful mystery. Richly atmospheric and fastidiously plotted, DEADLY DRAM is a gold winner.
FTC Disclosure – The publisher sent me a digital ARC provided through NetGalley, in the hopes I would review it.
September 18, 2018
First off I was given this book from netgalley for an honest review.
This is the third book in the whiskey murder series and I love each one as we go. It is a cozy mystery so take that into perspective as you read the book. The general series premise is Abby, a woman, has inherited a Scottish whiskey distillery a predominantly male dominated business and murder ensues along with all the bullshit a woman has to deal with in a “mans” job. Abby is a freelance award winning photographer reporter and has romance she is fighting against with Grant, her whiskey business partner. In this enstalment there is a whiskey competition and the judges start getting killed one by one and of course Abby being an ex reporter photographer and having solved 2 other murders helps the local small town police solve the crime with her intuition and the computer research of her best friend Patrick. Of course at the same time another woman from Grant’s past re-enters the picture forcing Abby to start rethinking her argument to stay away from Grant. The characters are smart and interesting I need to learn more about Abby’s backstory at this point I feel like Grant has more history. Plus the comic relief from her best friend Patrick is sorely needed and I would love to see more. This is a fun cozy mystery and I can’t wait for more, not to mention if you listen on audible and you get to hear those lovely Scottish and British accents!!
This is the third book in the whiskey murder series and I love each one as we go. It is a cozy mystery so take that into perspective as you read the book. The general series premise is Abby, a woman, has inherited a Scottish whiskey distillery a predominantly male dominated business and murder ensues along with all the bullshit a woman has to deal with in a “mans” job. Abby is a freelance award winning photographer reporter and has romance she is fighting against with Grant, her whiskey business partner. In this enstalment there is a whiskey competition and the judges start getting killed one by one and of course Abby being an ex reporter photographer and having solved 2 other murders helps the local small town police solve the crime with her intuition and the computer research of her best friend Patrick. Of course at the same time another woman from Grant’s past re-enters the picture forcing Abby to start rethinking her argument to stay away from Grant. The characters are smart and interesting I need to learn more about Abby’s backstory at this point I feel like Grant has more history. Plus the comic relief from her best friend Patrick is sorely needed and I would love to see more. This is a fun cozy mystery and I can’t wait for more, not to mention if you listen on audible and you get to hear those lovely Scottish and British accents!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2018
Abi Logan, co-owner of Abbey Glen Distillery, is still very new to the business after it was bequeathed to her by her uncle. She has not yet given up her career as a photojournalist and returns to Scotland to attend the prestigious Quaich competition. The competition is a four-day event at a 5-star hotel and promises to be more contentious than usual. Several non-Scots distilleries are competing, and one, in particular, seems very strong. Abi and her partner, Grant McEwan think that the foreign competitors will be a positive influence, but others are adamantly opposed. When two of the judges are poisoned the short-handed local police include Abi in the investigation, mostly to take pictures at the crime scenes. But her dear friend, Patrick, is a suspect and Abby jumps in with both feet. When Grant McEwan is targeted, she is even more determined to get to the bottom of the plot.
The Whisky Business mysteries are an excellent read, with vivid descriptions of the business and Scotland. The characters are well-drawn, and the mystery itself is intricately plotted. I certainly did not figure out "whodunnit" until the end, along with Abi herself. I also enjoy the developing romance between Abi and Grant. After some failed relationships Abi is skittish, but the return of Grant's former flame makes her rethink her position.
Thanks to Random House Alibi and NetGalley for a digital advance copy. The opinions are my own, and I look forward to the next in the series!
The Whisky Business mysteries are an excellent read, with vivid descriptions of the business and Scotland. The characters are well-drawn, and the mystery itself is intricately plotted. I certainly did not figure out "whodunnit" until the end, along with Abi herself. I also enjoy the developing romance between Abi and Grant. After some failed relationships Abi is skittish, but the return of Grant's former flame makes her rethink her position.
Thanks to Random House Alibi and NetGalley for a digital advance copy. The opinions are my own, and I look forward to the next in the series!
September 11, 2018
Abi, along with her friend Patrick, her business partner Grant and Abby Glen's chief distiller Cam, have a few days at a top notch lodge for the Annual Quaich competition (a way of show casing the best of the different whiskies, new comers as well as traditional distillers), the first night there there are a couple of upsets, firstly a blast from Grant's past in the form of a rather stunning female distiller (Welsh distillery) and then a death, and apparently not a natural death either. The problem is Patrick was the last person to see the victim alive, and when there is another death of another judge things start to look very bad in the whisky business.
With the local police being short staffed, Abi is drafted in (mainly because of her photography skills, but also because she can keep her eyes and ears open among the whisky people), this was a wonderfully crafted story that had the twists and turns you anticipate from a good mystery, and I for one certainly didn't expect the twist at the end!
With the local police being short staffed, Abi is drafted in (mainly because of her photography skills, but also because she can keep her eyes and ears open among the whisky people), this was a wonderfully crafted story that had the twists and turns you anticipate from a good mystery, and I for one certainly didn't expect the twist at the end!
September 3, 2018
As Abi Logan tries to settle in her new Abbey Glen whiskey distillery co-owner role, she finds herself attending the annual whiskey competition where they had been nominated. But this competition proves deadly for one of the judges. There was definite rivalry between Scottish whiskeys and other outsiders, but would that cause someone to resort to murder. This is the third book in this series and I love how Abi goes about her investigations. As an experienced photojournalist, she is used to getting people to talk, but this also may put her in the path of a murderer. I love her relationship with her adorable dog, Liam, and his precious antics. I also like her friendship with Patrick, as well as that with her co-owner, Grant. The visual and aromatic descriptions of the whiskeys are almost brought to life, making me want a taste myself (and I am not a whiskey fan). I definitely need to read the next book in this series to see how her relationships progress. Disclosure: I am voluntarily reviewing this book received through NetGalley.
September 3, 2018
I loved this book! This is the first in the series that I have read, but I will go back and start at the first one! The storyline was well-written and easy to follow. The characters were well formed and held the storyline together. The setting was described beautifully, so that I felt like I was there. I would recommend this book to anyone who likes strong female protagonists, engaging mysteries and surprise endings. This book was given to me in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2018
Just a hint of romance, but this author still managed to break my heart... Needless to say, Deadly Dram was another amazing addition to the Whisky Business Mystery series and I can't wait for the next.
The Whisky Business Mystery series is one that I picked up on a whim. Only three books in and it’s now one that has me hardly being to wait for the next book to be released. Ever since Single Malt Murder I’ve been hooked and each book in the series pulls me in just a little bit more.
So, what has me hooked? Pretty much everything. The witty characters, lovable dog, danger around every corner, the love, devotion and sense of family between the characters – that includes even a touch of romance – and of course the mysteries. All centered around the whisky industry – which in and of itself is pretty interesting.
In Deadly Dram, Abi finds herself in a bit over her head. The competition and all that was involved was overwhelming enough, but when murder is added to the weekend and competition of another sort, things quickly got out of hand. No one was safe from the killer and with each victim, the connections were making less sense. Regardless of being told not to, there was no way that Abi could stay out of the investigation, especially when the killer hits a little too close to home.
There was also no putting this book down once things reached that point. The “who” in Deadly Dram was as surprising as the “why”. Oh, and that touch of romance? Yeah, I have to admit that I may have shed a few tears near the end – which was totally unexpected. Looks like I have a few months before Died in Wool, the next book in The Whisky Business Mystery series. Needless to say, it can’t come soon enough. Things need to be fixed… sooner rather than later. 😉
I received Deadly Dram in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Whisky Business Mystery series is one that I picked up on a whim. Only three books in and it’s now one that has me hardly being to wait for the next book to be released. Ever since Single Malt Murder I’ve been hooked and each book in the series pulls me in just a little bit more.
So, what has me hooked? Pretty much everything. The witty characters, lovable dog, danger around every corner, the love, devotion and sense of family between the characters – that includes even a touch of romance – and of course the mysteries. All centered around the whisky industry – which in and of itself is pretty interesting.
In Deadly Dram, Abi finds herself in a bit over her head. The competition and all that was involved was overwhelming enough, but when murder is added to the weekend and competition of another sort, things quickly got out of hand. No one was safe from the killer and with each victim, the connections were making less sense. Regardless of being told not to, there was no way that Abi could stay out of the investigation, especially when the killer hits a little too close to home.
There was also no putting this book down once things reached that point. The “who” in Deadly Dram was as surprising as the “why”. Oh, and that touch of romance? Yeah, I have to admit that I may have shed a few tears near the end – which was totally unexpected. Looks like I have a few months before Died in Wool, the next book in The Whisky Business Mystery series. Needless to say, it can’t come soon enough. Things need to be fixed… sooner rather than later. 😉
I received Deadly Dram in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 28, 2018
3.5 ⭐️ Not bad, but this one had a few issues for me. Too much careless finger pointing for my taste.
December 8, 2018
Other than the bizarre thing about giving a dog alcohol (which the author addresses in a note but still leaves me wondering why include it at all), I really enjoyed this Scotland based mystery.
August 31, 2018
This was my first time reading a book from the Whiskey Business series but the story was such that I didn’t feel lost. I was thoroughly pleased with the characters and the way they interacted. There were plenty of twists and I was guessing until the end. Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to release.
May 9, 2020
Ready for a shot of Scotch!
I am in love with this series! Abi keeps getting better and better. Loved the change of location! Ready for the next book to be distilled!
I am in love with this series! Abi keeps getting better and better. Loved the change of location! Ready for the next book to be distilled!
December 27, 2019
The Whiskey Business series continues to delight me. Of course, it’s set in Scotland, a country I’ve visited twice and have always felt drawn to. Ms. Mullet does a good job with description and scene setting, vividly depicting Abbey Glen, the nearby village, and other Scottish venues such as the country-house hotel in this novel.
But it’s her characters that come most alive for me. Abi is a wonderful personality, and her experience as a professional photojournalist makes her curiosity and propensity for involving herself in murder investigations both likely and believable. I love her unruly but loyal wheaten terrier, Liam; her best friend, Patrick; and her complex relationship with Abbey Glen’s master brewer, Grant. (There were hints before the start of this book that things might tend in a romantic direction between Abi and Grant, but don’t hold your breath.) And I enjoy the relationship between Abi and the police inspector, Michaelson, which is also complex. Michaelson is slightly antagonistic even when he has to make use of her as a witness or as a photographer, but at the same time, he and Abi are both are coming to recognize and respect the skills of the other.
The mystery in this third book truly kept me guessing right up to the denouement, and the accumulating evidence had me looking at all the wrong people… which put me in good company, since both Michaelson and Abi did the same. There are rather a lot of suspects and potential victims to keep track of; I would have appreciated a “cast of characters” list to help me out until I had everyone’s name and pertinent information memorized. But once I had everyone sorted, I was quickly swept up into the story.
One side effect of following this series is that I’ve learned quit a bit about whiskey, in particular Scots (or “Scotch”) whiskey. I only regret that I’ve not developed a palate for it — yet. However, my well-developed mystery palate was quite happy to imbibe a Deadly Dram!
Review originally published at The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
But it’s her characters that come most alive for me. Abi is a wonderful personality, and her experience as a professional photojournalist makes her curiosity and propensity for involving herself in murder investigations both likely and believable. I love her unruly but loyal wheaten terrier, Liam; her best friend, Patrick; and her complex relationship with Abbey Glen’s master brewer, Grant. (There were hints before the start of this book that things might tend in a romantic direction between Abi and Grant, but don’t hold your breath.) And I enjoy the relationship between Abi and the police inspector, Michaelson, which is also complex. Michaelson is slightly antagonistic even when he has to make use of her as a witness or as a photographer, but at the same time, he and Abi are both are coming to recognize and respect the skills of the other.
The mystery in this third book truly kept me guessing right up to the denouement, and the accumulating evidence had me looking at all the wrong people… which put me in good company, since both Michaelson and Abi did the same. There are rather a lot of suspects and potential victims to keep track of; I would have appreciated a “cast of characters” list to help me out until I had everyone’s name and pertinent information memorized. But once I had everyone sorted, I was quickly swept up into the story.
One side effect of following this series is that I’ve learned quit a bit about whiskey, in particular Scots (or “Scotch”) whiskey. I only regret that I’ve not developed a palate for it — yet. However, my well-developed mystery palate was quite happy to imbibe a Deadly Dram!
Review originally published at The Bookwyrm's Hoard.
FTC disclosure: I received a review copy from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.
May 10, 2020
Werbung | Rezensionsexemplar
Abi Glen ist seit einiger Zeit Teilhaberin einer schottischen Whiskybrennerei. Nun geht es mit ihrem Hund Liam und Geschäftspartner Grant zu einem hochkarätigen Wettbewerb um die beste Whiskysorte. Austragungsort ist ein luxuriöses 5-Sterne-Hotel, doch schon am nächsten Morgen, wird einer der Preisrichter tot in seinem Zimmer aufgefunden. Kurzentschlossen beginnt Abi zu ermitteln.
Dies ist bereits der dritte Teil der Abi-Logan-ermittelt-Reihe. Obwohl ich erst hier eingestiegen bin, hatte ich keine Probleme mich einzufinden. Rupert und auch der Police-Detective Ian Michaelson waren mir sehr sympathisch. Wobei ich den Charakter Abi oft nicht verstehen konnte, da sie eigentlich für ihre Brennerei arbeiten sollte, aber geschäftlich ziemlich uninteressiert wirkte - Ein Mord ist natürlich interessanter, aber es ging hier um richtig viel PR und dadurch letztlich um Geld. Auch die angedeuteten tiefen Sympathien zwischen Grant und Abi waren doch wohl eher lauwarm. Da ich Tiere sehr liebe, mochte ich die Szene in Falknerei nicht und das ihr Hund Whisky trinkt, fand ich überhaupt nicht komisch und sprach auch nicht für Abi. Am Ende des Buches befindet sich noch eine Anmerkung der Autorin, dass Hunde keinen Alkohol konsumieren dürfen. Warum hat Liam dann eine Vorliebe für Whisky? Der Spannungsbogen wurde schön aufgebaut, das Gift ist ungewöhnlich (oder vielleicht eher nicht) und die Fährten die gelegt wurden, haben mich und meine Logik nicht zum Täter geführt.
Abi Glen ist seit einiger Zeit Teilhaberin einer schottischen Whiskybrennerei. Nun geht es mit ihrem Hund Liam und Geschäftspartner Grant zu einem hochkarätigen Wettbewerb um die beste Whiskysorte. Austragungsort ist ein luxuriöses 5-Sterne-Hotel, doch schon am nächsten Morgen, wird einer der Preisrichter tot in seinem Zimmer aufgefunden. Kurzentschlossen beginnt Abi zu ermitteln.
Dies ist bereits der dritte Teil der Abi-Logan-ermittelt-Reihe. Obwohl ich erst hier eingestiegen bin, hatte ich keine Probleme mich einzufinden. Rupert und auch der Police-Detective Ian Michaelson waren mir sehr sympathisch. Wobei ich den Charakter Abi oft nicht verstehen konnte, da sie eigentlich für ihre Brennerei arbeiten sollte, aber geschäftlich ziemlich uninteressiert wirkte - Ein Mord ist natürlich interessanter, aber es ging hier um richtig viel PR und dadurch letztlich um Geld. Auch die angedeuteten tiefen Sympathien zwischen Grant und Abi waren doch wohl eher lauwarm. Da ich Tiere sehr liebe, mochte ich die Szene in Falknerei nicht und das ihr Hund Whisky trinkt, fand ich überhaupt nicht komisch und sprach auch nicht für Abi. Am Ende des Buches befindet sich noch eine Anmerkung der Autorin, dass Hunde keinen Alkohol konsumieren dürfen. Warum hat Liam dann eine Vorliebe für Whisky? Der Spannungsbogen wurde schön aufgebaut, das Gift ist ungewöhnlich (oder vielleicht eher nicht) und die Fährten die gelegt wurden, haben mich und meine Logik nicht zum Täter geführt.
November 29, 2018
Deadly Dram by Melinda Mullet
Book #3: Whisky Business Mystery Series
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
For much of her adult life, Abi Logan made her way in the world as a photojournalist. She travelled to some of the world’s most dangerous (and compelling) places, risking her life to capture photos that change the way humanity views, well, humanity. As it happens, the most dangerous place she’s been is the whisky distillery she inherited just shy of a year ago.
With nearly a year in the Scottish countryside, two deaths, and a small herd of adopted sheep behind her, Abi is hoping for a little peace and quiet, for a run of good luck rather than bad. As fate would have it, that good luck comes in the form of several nominations for Abbey Glen’s beautifully crafted whisky and a four day stay in luxury accommodations while the competition is held, and the winners voted on. The cherry on top? Abi gets to spend the four days with her deliciously sexy partner, Grant, and her above average naughty dog 😊 With nothing but good feelings and high hopes, Abi and her furry beast set off for the competition.
Of course, as the last yearish has proven, Abi can’t seem to get away from drama and death! Within 24 hours of her appearance at the lodge, Abi’s delightful dog, Liam gets her kicked out of the all too serious hunting session (why kill it when you can chase and retrieve it?), she becomes involved (as a listener only) in a heated debate about the inclusion or exclusion of foreign brands of whisky into a purely Scottish competition, and a guy is murdered. Oh, and the next night, another guy is murdered. Can’t a girl go a full year without someone being murdered in and around her presence???
As the bodies continue to fall and the threat level rises, Abi finds herself, once again caught up in the investigation. Though she isn’t an official part of the investigation, even the intrepid and exhausted Detective Inspector Michaelson must admit, Abi has a keen sense of people and knows how to solve a puzzle. Michaelson isn’t stupid and knows an asset when he sees one! With some poking, prodding, and flat out conspiring, Abi begins to put the pieces together and what she finds is a troubling past, broken hearts, egos that have been trod upon, and wrong doing that has never met with proper justice. The puzzle is large, the pieces are varied and wonky, and if Abi can’t work it all out, someone close to her is going to lose their life. In fact, three someone’s close to Abi are in danger and time is of the essence.
The Bottom Line: From start to finish I was invested in this book and the outcome. Abi has had a year to become familiar with the whisky business, but this crazy competition has alerted her to how much she still has to learn, and the darker side of distilling prejudice. Yeah, that’s a thing! True to form, Abi dives right into the investigation and doesn’t let up until she puts all the pieces of the puzzle together. Along the way, Abi and her feisty little dog Liam (seriously, he has some great moments!) encounter anger, resentment, friendship, curiosity, loyalty, and pure confusion. There’s a killer in her midst and as Abi evolves as an investigator, she also evolves as a person/character. As always, I loved having the cast and crew from the previous books appear in this book and evolve right along with Abi and Liam. Finally, as with the first two books, the reader will receive a crash course in whisky, distilling, and the industry as a whole. While this information may sound dry and dull, it isn’t at all and it fits nicely into the story and is accessible to even the most whisky ignorant of readers, such as myself 😊 I’m ready for the next round, bartender!
Book #3: Whisky Business Mystery Series
Source: Netgalley
My Rating: 4½/5 stars
For much of her adult life, Abi Logan made her way in the world as a photojournalist. She travelled to some of the world’s most dangerous (and compelling) places, risking her life to capture photos that change the way humanity views, well, humanity. As it happens, the most dangerous place she’s been is the whisky distillery she inherited just shy of a year ago.
With nearly a year in the Scottish countryside, two deaths, and a small herd of adopted sheep behind her, Abi is hoping for a little peace and quiet, for a run of good luck rather than bad. As fate would have it, that good luck comes in the form of several nominations for Abbey Glen’s beautifully crafted whisky and a four day stay in luxury accommodations while the competition is held, and the winners voted on. The cherry on top? Abi gets to spend the four days with her deliciously sexy partner, Grant, and her above average naughty dog 😊 With nothing but good feelings and high hopes, Abi and her furry beast set off for the competition.
Of course, as the last yearish has proven, Abi can’t seem to get away from drama and death! Within 24 hours of her appearance at the lodge, Abi’s delightful dog, Liam gets her kicked out of the all too serious hunting session (why kill it when you can chase and retrieve it?), she becomes involved (as a listener only) in a heated debate about the inclusion or exclusion of foreign brands of whisky into a purely Scottish competition, and a guy is murdered. Oh, and the next night, another guy is murdered. Can’t a girl go a full year without someone being murdered in and around her presence???
As the bodies continue to fall and the threat level rises, Abi finds herself, once again caught up in the investigation. Though she isn’t an official part of the investigation, even the intrepid and exhausted Detective Inspector Michaelson must admit, Abi has a keen sense of people and knows how to solve a puzzle. Michaelson isn’t stupid and knows an asset when he sees one! With some poking, prodding, and flat out conspiring, Abi begins to put the pieces together and what she finds is a troubling past, broken hearts, egos that have been trod upon, and wrong doing that has never met with proper justice. The puzzle is large, the pieces are varied and wonky, and if Abi can’t work it all out, someone close to her is going to lose their life. In fact, three someone’s close to Abi are in danger and time is of the essence.
The Bottom Line: From start to finish I was invested in this book and the outcome. Abi has had a year to become familiar with the whisky business, but this crazy competition has alerted her to how much she still has to learn, and the darker side of distilling prejudice. Yeah, that’s a thing! True to form, Abi dives right into the investigation and doesn’t let up until she puts all the pieces of the puzzle together. Along the way, Abi and her feisty little dog Liam (seriously, he has some great moments!) encounter anger, resentment, friendship, curiosity, loyalty, and pure confusion. There’s a killer in her midst and as Abi evolves as an investigator, she also evolves as a person/character. As always, I loved having the cast and crew from the previous books appear in this book and evolve right along with Abi and Liam. Finally, as with the first two books, the reader will receive a crash course in whisky, distilling, and the industry as a whole. While this information may sound dry and dull, it isn’t at all and it fits nicely into the story and is accessible to even the most whisky ignorant of readers, such as myself 😊 I’m ready for the next round, bartender!
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