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Oakwood Mystery #4
The Codebook Murders
Amateur sleuth Charley Carpenter discovers a coded journal that could crack her small town’s most infamous cold case wide open in this charming cozy mystery from the USA Today bestselling author of The Book Club Murders.
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
Leslie Nagel’s delightful Oakwood Mystery novels can be enjoyed together or separately:
THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS • THE ANTIQUE HOUSE MURDERS • THE ADVICE COLUMN MURDERS • THE CODEBOOK MURDERS
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
Leslie Nagel’s delightful Oakwood Mystery novels can be enjoyed together or separately:
THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS • THE ANTIQUE HOUSE MURDERS • THE ADVICE COLUMN MURDERS • THE CODEBOOK MURDERS
- GenresCozy MysteryMysteryCozy
245 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 21, 2019
65 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
June 1, 2019
The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel is the fourth installment of the cozy Oakwood Mystery series. Each book in the series is a new case to be solved so while the characters have carried over from book to book it would be possible to read any as a standalone if choosing to do so. There would however be a bit of character building left out as their lives have progressed from book to book.
This series has introduced readers to the author’s own small hometown of Oakwood, Ohio although while the city is real her characters and murder mysteries are not. The main character of the story, Charley Carpenter, owns Old Hat Vintage Fashions, a clothing store selling gently used antique fashions and has a knack for stumbling upon crimes.
The Codebook Murders begins with Charley racing the weather while trying to avoid a speeding ticket while heading home where she will be hosting a meeting of her Oakwood Mystery Club. As the weather worsens Charley and a teen she’d offered a ride to find themselves needing shelter from a tornado when a man shuttles them quickly inside into some underground tunnels as the tornado strikes and wouldn’t you know Charley finds a clue to an old unsolved cold case.
Having read all the books of the Oakwood Mystery series it’s always fun to rejoin the characters each time on their new adventure. Charley is a strong and determined female lead character that I’ve found very likable and she is dating a police detective so that gives her opportunities to further her own investigating. There are plenty of twists to keep engaged in the story throughout while trying to figure out just why the murder had taken place. Will look forward to any additional books added to this series to see just what Charley gets herself involved in next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
This series has introduced readers to the author’s own small hometown of Oakwood, Ohio although while the city is real her characters and murder mysteries are not. The main character of the story, Charley Carpenter, owns Old Hat Vintage Fashions, a clothing store selling gently used antique fashions and has a knack for stumbling upon crimes.
The Codebook Murders begins with Charley racing the weather while trying to avoid a speeding ticket while heading home where she will be hosting a meeting of her Oakwood Mystery Club. As the weather worsens Charley and a teen she’d offered a ride to find themselves needing shelter from a tornado when a man shuttles them quickly inside into some underground tunnels as the tornado strikes and wouldn’t you know Charley finds a clue to an old unsolved cold case.
Having read all the books of the Oakwood Mystery series it’s always fun to rejoin the characters each time on their new adventure. Charley is a strong and determined female lead character that I’ve found very likable and she is dating a police detective so that gives her opportunities to further her own investigating. There are plenty of twists to keep engaged in the story throughout while trying to figure out just why the murder had taken place. Will look forward to any additional books added to this series to see just what Charley gets herself involved in next.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
May 27, 2019
A murder from Oakwood’s history resurfaces during a terrifying storm, and brings new clues and dead bodies in it’s wake! This is the third book from the Oakwood mystery series that I’ve read and it is the fourth in the series. It is a bit different than the others, but just as fun. I love seeing Charley back on my kindle—she is a delight to read about! And this one has that great mix of cold case and current case that was so intriguing. I definitely recommend The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel to all cozy mystery lovers!
Charley Carpenter is forced underground—literally—when a tornado hits the town of Oakwood and she finds herself in the tunnels under the local high school. While down there, she discovers a backpack with a strange journal in it—covered in sunflowers and filled with coded entries. The journal is linked to a local cold case, the murder of Regan Fletcher has haunted Oakwood for decades and this journal is quite clearly Regan’s, hidden the night she was murdered.
Though Regan’s boyfriend Carter was originally convicted of the crime, another man’s confession freed him. Only it becomes clear that man didn’t kill Regan either… But who did? Was it really Carter after all? Or did a murder walk free all of those decades? Charley takes on the case with the members of the Oakwood Mystery Book Club and a few local teens. But the more they uncode of Regan’s diary, the more troubling the young woman’s story becomes… What was Regan up to that led to her death?
As the dead bodies begin to pile up, Charley and her friends feel even more urgency to solve the case and prevent the murderer from taking any more lives. But what if the truth is already lost forever?
These Leslie Nagel books are so much fun! I think she is one of the better cozy mystery authors at not letting the mystery get lost in the cozy town and character development as so many authors do. We learn a bit more about Charley and her friends’ lives, but it truly all is backseat to the mystery at hand. She’s also great about not spoiling the other books, so you can truly jump in at any point!
Charley is so SPUNKY and fun, just as I remember her from the other books. She pulls some pretty gutsy moves in this one, including finding a way to trick herself entrance into a suspects’ house (I won’t spoil the how but I got a great laugh out of her hijinks) and setting a social media trap for a thief! I really adore Charley and her friends and family. We saw a bit less of her father, vintage shop, and boyfriend in this book, but more of the high school sleuths and her book club friends.
Leslie Nagel always provides that nice balance where we learn more about the town in each book. This one focuses heavily on the high school and the students, past and present. We also got to know a few of Charley’s former teachers!
A fun mystery with a historical throwback and a coded journal that will delight readers! Thank you to Random House for my copy. Opinions are my own.
Charley Carpenter is forced underground—literally—when a tornado hits the town of Oakwood and she finds herself in the tunnels under the local high school. While down there, she discovers a backpack with a strange journal in it—covered in sunflowers and filled with coded entries. The journal is linked to a local cold case, the murder of Regan Fletcher has haunted Oakwood for decades and this journal is quite clearly Regan’s, hidden the night she was murdered.
Though Regan’s boyfriend Carter was originally convicted of the crime, another man’s confession freed him. Only it becomes clear that man didn’t kill Regan either… But who did? Was it really Carter after all? Or did a murder walk free all of those decades? Charley takes on the case with the members of the Oakwood Mystery Book Club and a few local teens. But the more they uncode of Regan’s diary, the more troubling the young woman’s story becomes… What was Regan up to that led to her death?
As the dead bodies begin to pile up, Charley and her friends feel even more urgency to solve the case and prevent the murderer from taking any more lives. But what if the truth is already lost forever?
These Leslie Nagel books are so much fun! I think she is one of the better cozy mystery authors at not letting the mystery get lost in the cozy town and character development as so many authors do. We learn a bit more about Charley and her friends’ lives, but it truly all is backseat to the mystery at hand. She’s also great about not spoiling the other books, so you can truly jump in at any point!
Charley is so SPUNKY and fun, just as I remember her from the other books. She pulls some pretty gutsy moves in this one, including finding a way to trick herself entrance into a suspects’ house (I won’t spoil the how but I got a great laugh out of her hijinks) and setting a social media trap for a thief! I really adore Charley and her friends and family. We saw a bit less of her father, vintage shop, and boyfriend in this book, but more of the high school sleuths and her book club friends.
Leslie Nagel always provides that nice balance where we learn more about the town in each book. This one focuses heavily on the high school and the students, past and present. We also got to know a few of Charley’s former teachers!
A fun mystery with a historical throwback and a coded journal that will delight readers! Thank you to Random House for my copy. Opinions are my own.
April 11, 2019
I enjoy this series and look forward to each new book. This installment had a few elements that I found interesting. The first chapter hooked me right from the start. Charley Carpenter finds herself in the middle of a tornado and when the school maintenance supervisor finds her and her young charge and helps them to safety, Charley finds a notebook that sets off a new murder for the book club to solve. The journal is written in code and as the story unfolds the plot dealing with code breaking was interesting. I also liked how the murder had elements that played into the Agatha Christie book being read by the book club. It has a nice touch. The mystery kept me guessing with a number of really good suspect that had plausible motives. There was a twist or two I didn't see coming which always keeps me on my toes.
I am looking forward to more to come in the series and will be back for the next installment. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
I am looking forward to more to come in the series and will be back for the next installment. I voluntarily read a digital ARC provided to me by the publisher through Netgalley.
April 28, 2019
The 4th edition in Oakwood mysteries open with a disaster that puts into the action and immediately catches your attention. Charley Carpenter finds a backpack that contains a journal that is in code and Oakwood Book Club in action. The notebook decoded shows a link to a famous murder, Regan Fletcher. Her boyfriend was convicted of her murder. Who really kill Ryan? There are more than enough suspects as Ryan's becomes clear.
Marc, Charley's boyfriend is updating the house next door and worrying about Charley getting herself in danger looking into the Fletcher case.
Charley is looking for answers before she ends up like Ryan.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Alibi for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Marc, Charley's boyfriend is updating the house next door and worrying about Charley getting herself in danger looking into the Fletcher case.
Charley is looking for answers before she ends up like Ryan.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Alibi for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 23, 2019
The story started off with a bang. A twister has touched down in Oakwood, Ohio and Charley, our protagonist, finds herself in a tunnel between the high school sports field and the school itself. With the school janitor, Merritt Vance, and a young neighbour Katie, they head down the tunnel to the school. Along the way, Charley finds a backpack in a drain containing a journal that just happens to be written in code. When young Katie posts an instagram post about the journal and the fact that they think it might have belonged to a young lady who was murdered many years ago, the book is stolen and Charley's father's home is burgled.
I find Charley to be a great protagonist. She is smart, loyal and tenacious. The other characters in the story are well-developed. There is Charley's family and loved ones who are a huge part of her life. She would do whatever she needs to in order to protect them. Then there are her co-workers and fellow book club members who add some humour and quirkiness. I love the small town feel where everyone helps each other out and knows what is happening in town. This was a fun mystery that was actually trying to solve a cold case, until a new murder happens. The murdered girl's boyfriend was imprisoned for killing her, but it seems he might just be innocent. It is no surprise when Charley, her boyfriend and ex-detective Marc, and the Oakwood Mystery Book Club gang start looking into things and interviewing people. What they find are longtime hostilities between families and love triangles along with theft, murder, blackmail and kidnapping. This one will have you flipping the pages to find out who was behind the murder of Regan as well as the new murder, and who is trying to shut them down. I always like a mystery that I can not solve and this one measured up nicely. My only issue was that Charley seems to be given free rein from the police to investigate and solve these cases, with very little concern or interference from the police. With that being my only problem, I give this cozy mystery 4.5 stars. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
I find Charley to be a great protagonist. She is smart, loyal and tenacious. The other characters in the story are well-developed. There is Charley's family and loved ones who are a huge part of her life. She would do whatever she needs to in order to protect them. Then there are her co-workers and fellow book club members who add some humour and quirkiness. I love the small town feel where everyone helps each other out and knows what is happening in town. This was a fun mystery that was actually trying to solve a cold case, until a new murder happens. The murdered girl's boyfriend was imprisoned for killing her, but it seems he might just be innocent. It is no surprise when Charley, her boyfriend and ex-detective Marc, and the Oakwood Mystery Book Club gang start looking into things and interviewing people. What they find are longtime hostilities between families and love triangles along with theft, murder, blackmail and kidnapping. This one will have you flipping the pages to find out who was behind the murder of Regan as well as the new murder, and who is trying to shut them down. I always like a mystery that I can not solve and this one measured up nicely. My only issue was that Charley seems to be given free rein from the police to investigate and solve these cases, with very little concern or interference from the police. With that being my only problem, I give this cozy mystery 4.5 stars. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book upon request. The rating, ideas and opinions shared are my own.
May 27, 2019
This was my first book in the Oakwood Mysteries. While I’m sure many would say they can be read as standalones, and I’m sure they can be, I found myself feeling like the last person joining a conversation. I could keep up with what was going on, but still felt like I was missing information.
With that being said, THE CODEBOOK MURDERS was an intriguing mystery. There were many twisty little turns to lead readers down wrong paths. Just when I was sure of the who in the dunit, the reveal shot me down. I think author Leslie Nagel would have had the great Holmes himself perplexed.
I do have to say, I didn’t care for series lead, Charley Carpenter. I found she could be a little annoying. This may be due to my late entry into the series. I do intend to read the first book in the series because I would like to see just how Charley and the rest of the characters start out.
If you’re a returning fan, I feel it safe to say you will enjoy THE CODEBOOK MURDERS. If you’re new to the series, I personally would suggest you start with the first book, THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS.
With that being said, THE CODEBOOK MURDERS was an intriguing mystery. There were many twisty little turns to lead readers down wrong paths. Just when I was sure of the who in the dunit, the reveal shot me down. I think author Leslie Nagel would have had the great Holmes himself perplexed.
I do have to say, I didn’t care for series lead, Charley Carpenter. I found she could be a little annoying. This may be due to my late entry into the series. I do intend to read the first book in the series because I would like to see just how Charley and the rest of the characters start out.
If you’re a returning fan, I feel it safe to say you will enjoy THE CODEBOOK MURDERS. If you’re new to the series, I personally would suggest you start with the first book, THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS.
May 28, 2019
The Codebook Murders
Oakwood Mysteries, Book #4
Leslie Nagel
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Amateur sleuth Charley Carpenter discovers a coded journal that could crack her small town’s most infamous cold case wide open in this charming cozy mystery from the USA Todaybestselling author of The Book Club Murders.
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
Leslie Nagel’s delightful Oakwood Mystery novels can be enjoyed together or separately:
THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS • THE ANTIQUE HOUSE MURDERS • THE ADVICE COLUMN MURDERS • THE CODEBOOK MURDERS (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Charley and her family and friends all have great relationships and you can tell how much they care about each other. Charley loves her dad, Bobby, so much and she worries about him a lot. And the feeling is mutual. They are each other’s biggest supporters. Charley and her best friend, Frankie, are so funny and you never know what kind of trouble they are going to get in.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this description pulled me into the story right from the beginning. The first chapter was very realistic and very intense. I felt like I was right there with Charley in the tunnel, worrying about what was going on outside of it. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read.
The mystery was well developed and nicely paced, and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was very surprised to find out who the culprit was, and I like when that happens.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am already looking forward to reading the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Random House Publishing Group-Alibi, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate
Oakwood Mysteries, Book #4
Leslie Nagel
5 Stars
Synopsis:
Amateur sleuth Charley Carpenter discovers a coded journal that could crack her small town’s most infamous cold case wide open in this charming cozy mystery from the USA Todaybestselling author of The Book Club Murders.
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
Leslie Nagel’s delightful Oakwood Mystery novels can be enjoyed together or separately:
THE BOOK CLUB MURDERS • THE ANTIQUE HOUSE MURDERS • THE ADVICE COLUMN MURDERS • THE CODEBOOK MURDERS (Goodreads)
Review:
The characters are well rounded and well developed. Charley and her family and friends all have great relationships and you can tell how much they care about each other. Charley loves her dad, Bobby, so much and she worries about him a lot. And the feeling is mutual. They are each other’s biggest supporters. Charley and her best friend, Frankie, are so funny and you never know what kind of trouble they are going to get in.
The author is very talented in her descriptive writing and this description pulled me into the story right from the beginning. The first chapter was very realistic and very intense. I felt like I was right there with Charley in the tunnel, worrying about what was going on outside of it. The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read.
The mystery was well developed and nicely paced, and there were enough clues to sift through and suspects to consider. I was very surprised to find out who the culprit was, and I like when that happens.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a well crafted cozy mystery. I am already looking forward to reading the next book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Random House Publishing Group-Alibi, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate
June 18, 2019
The Codebook Murders by Leslie Negel is the 4th book in the Oakwood Mystery series, and another great addition. I really enjoy this series. Charley Carpenter owns Old Hat Vintage Fashions in Oakwood, Ohio. Charley and a teenager are caught in a storm, when someone helps them into the safe under tunnel to the high school. While in the dark, Charley finds an old back pack and a book, filled with codes. The book seems to belong to a teenager who disappeared decades ago. Determined to find out what really happened to her, Charley is determined to find the truth. This book kept me reading page after page, and it had more twists and turns as we figured things out along with Charley. I strongly recommend this book and series.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and the publisher. Thank you.
May 24, 2019
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Great Escapes Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. Will the coded journal lead to who killed Regan Fletcher?
The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel is a spectacular cold case mystery filled with jealousy, secrets, and an old family feud. I adored the entire story from the Nancy Drew references to the individual suspects and the cunning sleuth and her mystery club participates. What a superb tale.
Charley Carpenter, our sleuth
Charley Carpenter is our sleuth, at least the main sleuth. She runs a vintage store and lives with her father and his caregivers. However, she is also part of a Mystery (book) Club. At least it started as a book club, but now it is a bit more. Anyway, Charley has this unique mind that sees the discrepancies in the different versions of the witness statements. She is also courageous and capable of taking care of herself.
Charley is a fabulous character that seems to handle everything that has been tossed at her quite well. I enjoyed getting to know her and everyone that help her solve the crime.
Mystery
This book starts with a forty-year-old cold case. Charley, while running for shelter from a tornado, takes refuge in a high school utility tunnel along with the school’s janitor and a student, Katie. There Charley trips and finds an old backpack with a journal inside. She isn’t able to get a good look at it as the janitor takes the bag away from her. Charley, however, holds onto the journal to examine when she is safe.
The journal seems to belong to Regan Fletcher, a high school student from the 1970s that was murdered. Charley, with the help of her friends, is able to decode the journal and solve the old murder. Ya, well kind of, but not that easy as there is a code within the code. In the meantime, there is another murder and kidnapping, which are probably all connected or are they?
5 Stars for The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel
My rating for The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel is five stars. The mystery is detailed, and the sleuths are wonderfully developed that I loved it all. This a series to keep an eye on that is for sure. There is just the right about of pop culture, literary culture, and real mystery, making it superb.
I recommend this book to all the cozy mystery readers out there.
The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel is a spectacular cold case mystery filled with jealousy, secrets, and an old family feud. I adored the entire story from the Nancy Drew references to the individual suspects and the cunning sleuth and her mystery club participates. What a superb tale.
Charley Carpenter, our sleuth
Charley Carpenter is our sleuth, at least the main sleuth. She runs a vintage store and lives with her father and his caregivers. However, she is also part of a Mystery (book) Club. At least it started as a book club, but now it is a bit more. Anyway, Charley has this unique mind that sees the discrepancies in the different versions of the witness statements. She is also courageous and capable of taking care of herself.
Charley is a fabulous character that seems to handle everything that has been tossed at her quite well. I enjoyed getting to know her and everyone that help her solve the crime.
Mystery This book starts with a forty-year-old cold case. Charley, while running for shelter from a tornado, takes refuge in a high school utility tunnel along with the school’s janitor and a student, Katie. There Charley trips and finds an old backpack with a journal inside. She isn’t able to get a good look at it as the janitor takes the bag away from her. Charley, however, holds onto the journal to examine when she is safe.
The journal seems to belong to Regan Fletcher, a high school student from the 1970s that was murdered. Charley, with the help of her friends, is able to decode the journal and solve the old murder. Ya, well kind of, but not that easy as there is a code within the code. In the meantime, there is another murder and kidnapping, which are probably all connected or are they?
5 Stars for The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel
My rating for The Codebook Murders by Leslie Nagel is five stars. The mystery is detailed, and the sleuths are wonderfully developed that I loved it all. This a series to keep an eye on that is for sure. There is just the right about of pop culture, literary culture, and real mystery, making it superb.
I recommend this book to all the cozy mystery readers out there.
May 20 –
Lisa Ks Book Reviews
– REVIEW, AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 20 –
I’m All About Books
– GUEST POST
May 21 –
FUONLYKNEW
– SPOTLIGHT
May 22 –
Babs Book Bistro
– SPOTLIGHT
May 23 –
Carla Loves To Read
– REVIEW
May 23 –
Cozy Up With Kathy
– GUEST POST
May 24 –
Baroness’ Book Trove
– REVIEW
May 25 –
The Avid Reader
– REVIEW
May 26 –
A Wytch’s Book Review Blog
– REVIEW
May 27 –
Mallory Heart’s Cozies
– REVIEW
May 28 –
A Blue Million Books
– AUTHOR INTERVIEW
May 29 –
Ruff Drafts
– GUEST POST
May 30 –
The Book Diva’s Reads
– SPOTLIGHT
May 31 –
Ascroft, eh?
– AUTHOR INTERVIEW
June 1 –
Elizabeth McKenna’s Blog
– SPOTLIGHT
June 2 –
LibriAmoriMiei
– REVIEW
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This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
April 14, 2019
This book had a solid whodunit with twists and turns that left me guessing.
I was very glad to see the profanity found in previous books in the series was not found in this latest offering.
I do find the protagonist irritating and the premise that she appears to be the lead investigator (as opposed to the police, and even the police allow her to be involved), a big leap to believe.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
I was very glad to see the profanity found in previous books in the series was not found in this latest offering.
I do find the protagonist irritating and the premise that she appears to be the lead investigator (as opposed to the police, and even the police allow her to be involved), a big leap to believe.
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book.
May 11, 2019
The Codebook Murders, the latest entry into Leslie Nagel’s The Oakwood Mystery Series, is a solidly crafted mystery. The chronology and characters from the previous books remain mostly intact and the relationship between Charley Carpenter and Marc Trenault has deepened and stabilized, which I consider a positive.
The book opens with a tornado ripping through Oakwood forcing Charley and her passenger Katie O’Malley to seek safety in a high school tunnel with the aid of gruff Merritt Vance, a long time janitor with the school system. While in the tunnel, Charley comes across an old backpack which holds something unexpected: a journal written entirely in code. Who it belonged to and what is written in the journal is the first part of the mystery. The second part of the mystery is solving a forty year old cold case involving the murder of an 18 year old high school cheerleader. Charley, aided by Marc, her book club and her gang of high school investigators, the Irregulars.
There are components of this book that make it worth recommending. There are several viable suspects which means the murder isn’t too easy to solve. There is also an intriguing use of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, which fits in perfectly with Charley’s murder club. What I didn’t care for as much is how openly Charley investigated, with no apparent resistance form the police nor Marc. Much worse, the teenagers played a much too active part in the investigation for my taste. Their level of involvement made me uncomfortable. Though Charley thinks she won’t put them in danger, there is a murderer on the loose and there is no way that can be deemed safe for anyone. I also felt the book dragged a bit.
This is an okay read for those who like cozy mysteries or are fans of the Oakwood Mystery series. Three stars.
I was given a free copy of this by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions stated are solely my own.
The book opens with a tornado ripping through Oakwood forcing Charley and her passenger Katie O’Malley to seek safety in a high school tunnel with the aid of gruff Merritt Vance, a long time janitor with the school system. While in the tunnel, Charley comes across an old backpack which holds something unexpected: a journal written entirely in code. Who it belonged to and what is written in the journal is the first part of the mystery. The second part of the mystery is solving a forty year old cold case involving the murder of an 18 year old high school cheerleader. Charley, aided by Marc, her book club and her gang of high school investigators, the Irregulars.
There are components of this book that make it worth recommending. There are several viable suspects which means the murder isn’t too easy to solve. There is also an intriguing use of Agatha Christie’s Death on the Nile, which fits in perfectly with Charley’s murder club. What I didn’t care for as much is how openly Charley investigated, with no apparent resistance form the police nor Marc. Much worse, the teenagers played a much too active part in the investigation for my taste. Their level of involvement made me uncomfortable. Though Charley thinks she won’t put them in danger, there is a murderer on the loose and there is no way that can be deemed safe for anyone. I also felt the book dragged a bit.
This is an okay read for those who like cozy mysteries or are fans of the Oakwood Mystery series. Three stars.
I was given a free copy of this by NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated nor was I required to write a positive review. The opinions stated are solely my own.
May 13, 2019
In Oakwood, Ohio, Regan Fletcher’s murder has been a case that has scarred the citizens for decades. Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, was sent to prison for it, until another man confessed and then later recanted his confession. After Carter was released, people never stopped believing he had something to do with it.
As a tornado struck the town, Charley Carpenter, owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, wound up in the tunnels under the high school. She found an old backpack containing a coded journal with information about Regan’s murder. Can she find the key to unraveling this cold case before another tornado of death sweeps the town?
I really loved this novel. It had all of the aspects of a great cozy mystery: intriguing characters, a plot full of twists and turns, a small town setting, and a likeable female amateur detective who doesn’t take the easy way out when confronted with a crime that affects the ones she loves. I was surprised about the identity of the culprit and the motive. I really can’t wait for Ms. Nagel’s next book. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing it.
As a tornado struck the town, Charley Carpenter, owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, wound up in the tunnels under the high school. She found an old backpack containing a coded journal with information about Regan’s murder. Can she find the key to unraveling this cold case before another tornado of death sweeps the town?
I really loved this novel. It had all of the aspects of a great cozy mystery: intriguing characters, a plot full of twists and turns, a small town setting, and a likeable female amateur detective who doesn’t take the easy way out when confronted with a crime that affects the ones she loves. I was surprised about the identity of the culprit and the motive. I really can’t wait for Ms. Nagel’s next book. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and am voluntarily reviewing it.
May 25, 2019
This book opens with a Twister and then the twists and turns keep coming keeping you clued to the plot to the final page!
Charley Carpenter and her young friend Katie get caught, or almost caught, in a tornado, a man has grabbed them and dragged them inside and down into a tunnel that keeps them safe, the man is the janitor of the school and that is where the tunnel leads them to, on the way Charley drops her phone and whilst finding it she comes across an old backpack with a coded journal inside it. The journal turns out to be a clue in an old case where a teenager was sent to prison for murdering his girlfriend, he always insisted he was innocent and when a few years down the line someone else confesses Carter Magallen is set free, but people are still suspicious of him and so his sister (now a teacher at the high school) asks Charley to help, and this is where it starts getting interesting, very interesting!
Charley Carpenter and her young friend Katie get caught, or almost caught, in a tornado, a man has grabbed them and dragged them inside and down into a tunnel that keeps them safe, the man is the janitor of the school and that is where the tunnel leads them to, on the way Charley drops her phone and whilst finding it she comes across an old backpack with a coded journal inside it. The journal turns out to be a clue in an old case where a teenager was sent to prison for murdering his girlfriend, he always insisted he was innocent and when a few years down the line someone else confesses Carter Magallen is set free, but people are still suspicious of him and so his sister (now a teacher at the high school) asks Charley to help, and this is where it starts getting interesting, very interesting!
May 30, 2019
A tornado forces Charley Carpenter and her friend to take refuge in a tunnel underneath the high school with the school janitor when she discovers an old backpack with a book written in code. Turns out the back pack and book belonged to Regan Fletcher, a vivacious high school senior murdered 40 years ago. As Charley becomes involved trying to break the code, a series of burglaries take place leading to another murder. In this entertaining cozy, Charley and friends are fascinated by the Nancy Drew books and many allusions to them are used to good effect. Series just keeps getting better! Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
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September 12, 2019Cute idea but this just didn’t hook me-gave it up at the 50 page mark. (Skipped ahead and read a few pages here and there, plus the last ten pages for closure)
October 22, 2021
This series is so full of life, adventure, family, friendship and love! I love being transported to Oakland for the latest mystery. The plot is engaging and the cast of characters doesn’t disappoint.
I do hope the author writes a few more in this series.
I do hope the author writes a few more in this series.
May 28, 2019
Bel libro, che ho divorato (complice anche una notte in parte insonne), come i precedenti. Avevo dismesso come possibile colpevole quello che è poi risultato tale, quindi un brava all'autrice per essere risucita a ingannarmi.
Ho appena finito il libro e, da alcune cose che accadono, ho tanta paura che questo sia l'ultimo della serie. Spero proprio di no perchè mi piace tutta la combriccola di personaggi!
Ho appena finito il libro e, da alcune cose che accadono, ho tanta paura che questo sia l'ultimo della serie. Spero proprio di no perchè mi piace tutta la combriccola di personaggi!
April 29, 2019
The Codebook Murders is the fourth book in Leslie Nagel’s Oakwood Mystery Series. The characters are well developed and relatable. Each of the books in this series can easily be read as a standalone because the author provides great background information. The storyline is strong, well plotted, and flows smoothly at a steady pace, with more than one viable suspect and plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged and guessing.
Charley Carpenter lives in the quiet little town of Oakwood, Ohio with her widowed father, Bobby, who has suffered multiple strokes, and his caretaker, Lawrence Whittman. Charley’s the owner of Old Hat New Beginnings, and looking forward to moving into the house next door with her boyfriend and ex-detective of the Oakwood Safety Department, Marc Trenault. Charley and a member of Charley’s Park Avenue Irregulars, a group of teens who help her identify petty criminals and come to her for advice, Katie O’Malley, get caught in a storm, and, when the tornado siren goes off, they take shelter under the brick archway leading to the school’s football field. Merritt Vance, the school janitor, finds them there and leads them down into a service tunnel that leads to the school moments before the tornado hits. While in the tunnel, Charley finds an old backpack that contains a journal that was written in code belonging to Regan Fletcher who was murdered forty years ago. Regan’s boyfriend, Carter Magellan, was convicted of her murder and had served almost twenty years when someone else claimed responsibility. Three years after Carter’s release, the confession was recanted. One of Katie’s friends, Priyesh “PJ” Konduru, helps break the journal’s code. After Katie posted a dramatic tale of the tornado, near death, rescue, the tunnel, and finding Regan’s coded journal, Charley’s house is ransacked, and the journal is stolen from her shop. Charley has a penchant for tripping over dead bodies and becoming involved in the investigations, so it’s no surprise when she, Marc, and the Oakwood Mystery Book Club gang start looking into things and interviewing people. They uncover deceit, manipulation, and a blackmail scheme targeting many Oakwood residents.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Charley Carpenter lives in the quiet little town of Oakwood, Ohio with her widowed father, Bobby, who has suffered multiple strokes, and his caretaker, Lawrence Whittman. Charley’s the owner of Old Hat New Beginnings, and looking forward to moving into the house next door with her boyfriend and ex-detective of the Oakwood Safety Department, Marc Trenault. Charley and a member of Charley’s Park Avenue Irregulars, a group of teens who help her identify petty criminals and come to her for advice, Katie O’Malley, get caught in a storm, and, when the tornado siren goes off, they take shelter under the brick archway leading to the school’s football field. Merritt Vance, the school janitor, finds them there and leads them down into a service tunnel that leads to the school moments before the tornado hits. While in the tunnel, Charley finds an old backpack that contains a journal that was written in code belonging to Regan Fletcher who was murdered forty years ago. Regan’s boyfriend, Carter Magellan, was convicted of her murder and had served almost twenty years when someone else claimed responsibility. Three years after Carter’s release, the confession was recanted. One of Katie’s friends, Priyesh “PJ” Konduru, helps break the journal’s code. After Katie posted a dramatic tale of the tornado, near death, rescue, the tunnel, and finding Regan’s coded journal, Charley’s house is ransacked, and the journal is stolen from her shop. Charley has a penchant for tripping over dead bodies and becoming involved in the investigations, so it’s no surprise when she, Marc, and the Oakwood Mystery Book Club gang start looking into things and interviewing people. They uncover deceit, manipulation, and a blackmail scheme targeting many Oakwood residents.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 6, 2019
The Codebook Murders is the fourth book in author Leslie Nagle’s Oakwood Book Club Mystery series. Caught in a treacherous thunderstorm, Charley Carpenter and Irregulars member Katie O’Malley take refuge under the high school arch, but as the storm amps up, custodian Merrill Vance whisks them into the building. When the tornado siren sounds, they quickly go into the cellar tunnel to escape the powerful storm. While in this basement they also run into Katie’s fellow student PJ Konduro.
Once the lights go out and the storm rages above, the group uses their phone flashlights to negotiate the tunnel. Charley trips on something in the dark and her phone goes skittering across the floor to land in a puddle, instantly losing power. The item that trips her appears to be a dark backpack which seems to hold a journal of some sort. When Mr. Vance gets irate and tells Charley to leave the backpack, it’s school property, she conceals the journal.
Once the storm passes, they leave the building through the main entrance, circling back to check on Charley’s van. They find it buried in bricks with quite a bit of damage. Without wheels, they walk back towards Charley’s house, with Katie parting ways when they get to her house and find her mother home.
Charley finds a bit of tree damage at her home, but her loved ones are fine, and that’s what really counts. In telling her dad, his assistant Lawrence, and her boyfriend Marc Trenault, she also tells them about the journal. From the entries on the first page, they suspect the journal had belonged to Regan Fletcher, a high school student who had been murdered 40 years ago. The main problem is that Regan had written the journal completely in code. No one was able to decipher it, but PJ had some ideas. He photographed the pages so he could work on the translation on his own time.
What ensues is a whirlwind of intrigue. With longtime hostilities between families and love triangles at the root of the mystery, theft, murder, kidnaping, and breaking and entering in the present, and a cadre of people working with Charley to solve the mystery of the codebook, the reader is in for a wonderful adventure! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
Once the lights go out and the storm rages above, the group uses their phone flashlights to negotiate the tunnel. Charley trips on something in the dark and her phone goes skittering across the floor to land in a puddle, instantly losing power. The item that trips her appears to be a dark backpack which seems to hold a journal of some sort. When Mr. Vance gets irate and tells Charley to leave the backpack, it’s school property, she conceals the journal.
Once the storm passes, they leave the building through the main entrance, circling back to check on Charley’s van. They find it buried in bricks with quite a bit of damage. Without wheels, they walk back towards Charley’s house, with Katie parting ways when they get to her house and find her mother home.
Charley finds a bit of tree damage at her home, but her loved ones are fine, and that’s what really counts. In telling her dad, his assistant Lawrence, and her boyfriend Marc Trenault, she also tells them about the journal. From the entries on the first page, they suspect the journal had belonged to Regan Fletcher, a high school student who had been murdered 40 years ago. The main problem is that Regan had written the journal completely in code. No one was able to decipher it, but PJ had some ideas. He photographed the pages so he could work on the translation on his own time.
What ensues is a whirlwind of intrigue. With longtime hostilities between families and love triangles at the root of the mystery, theft, murder, kidnaping, and breaking and entering in the present, and a cadre of people working with Charley to solve the mystery of the codebook, the reader is in for a wonderful adventure! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I do recommend it!
May 20, 2019
This was my first time reading a book by Leslie Nigel and I plan on catching up on the other 3 books. I found it to be a well written and paced mystery and I was engrossed from the very beginning.
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
There were intriguing characters, a small town setting, lots of plot twists, red herrings and plenty of suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Alibi. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
As the owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, Charley Carpenter supplies retro apparel to the residents of Oakwood, Ohio, but she’s been known to set business aside to play detective when a mystery rears its head. And there’s no bigger mystery in Oakwood than the murder of Regan Fletcher—a case that’s haunted the town for decades.
Regan’s boyfriend, Carter, did time for the crime—until another man’s confession freed him. But did the “real killer” really do it? Or did Carter walk away with blood on his hands? When Charley stumbles on an old journal written in code, it only complicates the case by revealing a blackmail scheme that targeted dozens of Oakwood’s citizens, giving them all a motive for murder.
Now, with a spate of new suspects to pursue, plus a fresh murder and the abduction of her sleuthing partner, Charley must dig deeper still into the past—even as she risks being buried by her shadowy prey. Joining forces with Detective Marcus Trenault and the newly formed Oakwood Mystery Book Club, Charley turns to a classic whodunit for clues on catching a killer—before more lives are lost, and the truth dies with them.
There were intriguing characters, a small town setting, lots of plot twists, red herrings and plenty of suspense. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Alibi. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
December 7, 2019
This cozy mystery is one fascinating look into solving cold cases for amateur sleuths - but don’t be fooled by it’s cozy exterior, there’s some real meat in this story.
This book is the fourth in a series, but an be read as a standalone. I had no troubles keeping up with the characters or the plot.
The book begins with a tornado, which sends Charley and one of her young sleuth friends into an underground tunnel near the local high school. While there, Charley discovers an old backpack which contains a journal - which it turns out belongs to a girl who was murdered 40 years ago and whose killing was never solved. Charley and her friends set out to finally lay the case to rest and bring peace to their community.
The central mystery is really fascinating; Reagan’s murder was once thought to be solved, but through a strange series of events, it remains a cold case. This gives plenty of suspects and plenty of scenarios. And I did not solve this one before it was revealed. The author does a really good job of planting some red herrings and slipping in clues. The “historical” aspect just made things better, since Charley et al were working with memories and an old journal, not really fresh clues.
I also liked the characters for the most part - Charley and her friends were a real treat to see at work and I’m excited to see where they go from here. The romance between Charley and her boyfriend was a little on the cheesy side, but hey, if you like Hallmark-style movies, you’ll enjoy it.
Overall, I really was glued to the pages of this one. I found the mystery great and enjoyable, as well as the characters. This is a great series if you like cozies!
This book is the fourth in a series, but an be read as a standalone. I had no troubles keeping up with the characters or the plot.
The book begins with a tornado, which sends Charley and one of her young sleuth friends into an underground tunnel near the local high school. While there, Charley discovers an old backpack which contains a journal - which it turns out belongs to a girl who was murdered 40 years ago and whose killing was never solved. Charley and her friends set out to finally lay the case to rest and bring peace to their community.
The central mystery is really fascinating; Reagan’s murder was once thought to be solved, but through a strange series of events, it remains a cold case. This gives plenty of suspects and plenty of scenarios. And I did not solve this one before it was revealed. The author does a really good job of planting some red herrings and slipping in clues. The “historical” aspect just made things better, since Charley et al were working with memories and an old journal, not really fresh clues.
I also liked the characters for the most part - Charley and her friends were a real treat to see at work and I’m excited to see where they go from here. The romance between Charley and her boyfriend was a little on the cheesy side, but hey, if you like Hallmark-style movies, you’ll enjoy it.
Overall, I really was glued to the pages of this one. I found the mystery great and enjoyable, as well as the characters. This is a great series if you like cozies!
May 23, 2019
The Codebook Murders is the fourth novel in The Oakwood Mystery series. It can be read as a standalone if you have not read the previous books in this series. Charley loves a good mystery and is looking forward to the first book club meeting of the Oakwood Mystery Club that evening. Then a twister leaves devastation in its path and Charley finds herself with a real mystery on her hands. She found the journal of Reagan Fletcher who was murdered forty years ago after the high school homecoming game. The group is excited to solve the crime and are fortunate to get extensive records from reporter, Berkeley Dye. The mystery was multifaceted with plenty of suspects and good clues. New information keeps popping up during Charley’s investigation enhancing this complex conundrum. The police do not mind that Charley and the gang dig into the case as long as they pass along any pertinent information. I like the Nancy Drew references throughout the book including the mention of the old TV series (there was Hardy Boys show too). There is a large cast of characters that include Charley, her boyfriend, her father, the father’s caretaker and his girlfriend, the book club plus their significant others, teachers, a janitor, neighbors, shopkeepers, police, and a couple of eager teens (whew). I would have preferred a faster pace plus less duplication of case details and a smaller amount of speculation (these little tweaks would have elevated this cozy mystery). The Codebook Murders has a special ending that will please readers. My favorite phrase from the story is “. . . house isn’t a home unless there is love at its heart” (that is so sweet). Cozy mystery readers will rejoice at the perplexing puzzle in The Codebook Murders.
May 28, 2019
This is the fourth edition in The Oakwood Series of mystery books. It works well as a standalone.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book was the codebook angle. I have not come across this idea in a mystery series before now, and I thought it was a clever idea. I also enjoyed the plot and the characters; however, there were a few things I didn't like:
The book seemed to really drag in the beginning, and because of that, it took me longer than usual to finish reading it. While I often enjoy reading on weekend afternoons after the things I need to do are taken care of, I found that I was slogging through the relationship stuff, and I was bored. There wasn't much action. Which brings me to my other complaint: the main character, Charley, has a boyfriend, Marc, who is fixing up the house next door to her father for them to live in together. While there weren't any graphic sex scenes, there is sexual innuendo, an instance of Charley leading Marc to the bedroom, removing each other's clothing, talk about sex, and things like that in the book. I know, because I am often asked about the presence of this kind of thing that I'm not the only one who would like to see the cozy mysteries remain free of it. If authors want to throw in scenes like this, they should write for another market.
Overall, the book was okay, and the mystery was neatly wrapped up in the end.
One thing I really enjoyed about this book was the codebook angle. I have not come across this idea in a mystery series before now, and I thought it was a clever idea. I also enjoyed the plot and the characters; however, there were a few things I didn't like:
The book seemed to really drag in the beginning, and because of that, it took me longer than usual to finish reading it. While I often enjoy reading on weekend afternoons after the things I need to do are taken care of, I found that I was slogging through the relationship stuff, and I was bored. There wasn't much action. Which brings me to my other complaint: the main character, Charley, has a boyfriend, Marc, who is fixing up the house next door to her father for them to live in together. While there weren't any graphic sex scenes, there is sexual innuendo, an instance of Charley leading Marc to the bedroom, removing each other's clothing, talk about sex, and things like that in the book. I know, because I am often asked about the presence of this kind of thing that I'm not the only one who would like to see the cozy mysteries remain free of it. If authors want to throw in scenes like this, they should write for another market.
Overall, the book was okay, and the mystery was neatly wrapped up in the end.
May 4, 2019
Charley Carpenter is heading home with one of the local teenagers during a storm. When the tornado alarms go off, she takes shelter under the archway of the school. The maintenance man pulls them into the shed and underground tunnels for safety. While going to the main building Charley trips and discovers a backpack. It's contents belong to a student who was murdered 40 years earlier. including a handwritten coded notebook that opens Charley's book club into a new mystery to solve.
This was a solid story with a nice cast of characters, and trail of clues that left me guessing until the end of the book.
I found it very hard to believe that the local police chief and department would willing share information on an open investigation with a private citizen, even if she was the boyfriend of one of their ex-detectives, or simply because she had helped them in the past.
I did notice several editing errors. When I contacted the author, she stated for me not to tell her anymore, as it was the publishers problem. I don't know if she just didn't care, or if she had been inundated with comments from other readers. I also contacted the publisher about said error and I never received a reply from them.
I received this story from Netgalley
This was a solid story with a nice cast of characters, and trail of clues that left me guessing until the end of the book.
I found it very hard to believe that the local police chief and department would willing share information on an open investigation with a private citizen, even if she was the boyfriend of one of their ex-detectives, or simply because she had helped them in the past.
I did notice several editing errors. When I contacted the author, she stated for me not to tell her anymore, as it was the publishers problem. I don't know if she just didn't care, or if she had been inundated with comments from other readers. I also contacted the publisher about said error and I never received a reply from them.
I received this story from Netgalley
June 27, 2019
4th in a series. It helps to read the others first, although not absolutely necessary. Charley owns Old Hat Vintage Fashions, and when she and her young friend Katie get caught in a tornado, they take refuge with the high school janitor. When a brickfall wipes out Charley's van and covers the hatch through which they came, they follow him through a dark tunnel that leads to the school. In the process, Charley finds a backpack containing a journal, which is all written in code. They determine that it belonged to Regan - a high-school cheerleader who was murdered 40 years ago. Katie's friend PJ is determined to decode the journal. Fortunately he takes photos of many of the pages, because the journal is stolen from Charley's shop a day or so later. Charley's boyfriend the ex-policeman, her BFF Frankie, and her dad's carer Lawrence and his girlfriend all get involved in it. As they slowly work their way through the journal, they discover that Regan was not quite what she seemed to be. There are a plethora of maybe-bad guys and gals, so it gets a little difficult to decide who should be suspected when. A fairly fascinating read. I really enjoyed this entire series. This book appears to wrap the series up, but there is still room for more - I hope she will continue it.
January 2, 2020
I loved this story very much, I love the mystery books that talk about books, if they are by Agatha Christie even more.
During a tornado, Charley finds a diary that belonged to a girl who died in the 70s and the culprit was never found. With the help of her mystery club she will try to solve this complicated case. Provided she is able to codify the diary which is written in code and to overcome the reticence of the people to whom they ask for information. Meanwhile there is a murder and a kidnapping.
Charley runs a vintage clothes shop. She is part of a mystery club born as a reading club and then became a real investigative group. She is a strong woman, stubborn, generous, intelligent, with great intuition to solve mysteries. All members of the club are funny and bizarre. I also loved the atmosphere of this small town, where everyone knows each other, full of secrets, gossip.
It's the fourth book in the series, each book may be enjoyed as a stand alone novel but for more enjoyment read the whole series
It's an intriguing and interesting book with a great pace, full of twists difficult to guess the ending.
Highly recommended
During a tornado, Charley finds a diary that belonged to a girl who died in the 70s and the culprit was never found. With the help of her mystery club she will try to solve this complicated case. Provided she is able to codify the diary which is written in code and to overcome the reticence of the people to whom they ask for information. Meanwhile there is a murder and a kidnapping.
Charley runs a vintage clothes shop. She is part of a mystery club born as a reading club and then became a real investigative group. She is a strong woman, stubborn, generous, intelligent, with great intuition to solve mysteries. All members of the club are funny and bizarre. I also loved the atmosphere of this small town, where everyone knows each other, full of secrets, gossip.
It's the fourth book in the series, each book may be enjoyed as a stand alone novel but for more enjoyment read the whole series
It's an intriguing and interesting book with a great pace, full of twists difficult to guess the ending.
Highly recommended
June 24, 2019
This is the 4th book in the popular "Oakwood Mystery Series." I have read the entire series and recommend it highly. Each book has a enjoyable mystery and likable charcters.
Thank you for the ARC for review. My opinion is my own.
In this next in series our protagonist Charley is busy running her vintage clothing shop when she is in a tornado . After the tornado she finds a mysterious diary written in code from the 1970's that appears to have belonged to a young girl who was murdered . Charley decides to investigate and finds out that the suspect was never caught. The mystery deepens when she finds that those she questions about the girl do not want to talk. She decides to involve her mystery club and they all begin a investigation. Soon a murder occurs that draw them in to a second mystery to solve.
I enjoy the small town true to life deception where people hid secrets and do not always tell the truth. The mystery was very well layered and kept me guessing.
This is a enjoyable well crafted cozy series that I highly recommend.
Thank you for the ARC for review. My opinion is my own.
In this next in series our protagonist Charley is busy running her vintage clothing shop when she is in a tornado . After the tornado she finds a mysterious diary written in code from the 1970's that appears to have belonged to a young girl who was murdered . Charley decides to investigate and finds out that the suspect was never caught. The mystery deepens when she finds that those she questions about the girl do not want to talk. She decides to involve her mystery club and they all begin a investigation. Soon a murder occurs that draw them in to a second mystery to solve.
I enjoy the small town true to life deception where people hid secrets and do not always tell the truth. The mystery was very well layered and kept me guessing.
This is a enjoyable well crafted cozy series that I highly recommend.
April 24, 2019
The Codebook Murders was the first book in the Oakwood Book Club series I've read and it won't be the last!
While renovating their first house as a couple, Charley Carpenter (owner of a vintage shop and part-time amateur sleuth) and her boyfriend and ex-police officer Marc, work to solve the 40 year old murder of a high school student, as well as a robbery, in their quaint hometown. Charley, Marc and the Oakwood book club confront former teachers and students to get to the bottom of the mystery.
I enjoyed Charley's spunk and determination and her love for her family, friends and hometown. The book club was made up of such differing personalities that it made for an entertaining group. The mystery was complex with red herrings, which I love!
You don't have to read the books in order but I am going back and read the whole series to see how the characters developed!
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley for an fair and honest review of this book.
While renovating their first house as a couple, Charley Carpenter (owner of a vintage shop and part-time amateur sleuth) and her boyfriend and ex-police officer Marc, work to solve the 40 year old murder of a high school student, as well as a robbery, in their quaint hometown. Charley, Marc and the Oakwood book club confront former teachers and students to get to the bottom of the mystery.
I enjoyed Charley's spunk and determination and her love for her family, friends and hometown. The book club was made up of such differing personalities that it made for an entertaining group. The mystery was complex with red herrings, which I love!
You don't have to read the books in order but I am going back and read the whole series to see how the characters developed!
I received a free copy of the book from NetGalley for an fair and honest review of this book.
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August 15, 2019Charley Carpenter is back in the fourth Oakwood Mystery story, The Codebook Murders. The action kicked off right from chapter one in this book! A dangerous storm forces Charley to seek refuge at the local high school. But, when the regular methods of getting around are cut off due to storm damage, she has to resort to using an old access tunnel. Inside, she finds a beat-up backpack and a journal. When she has a chance to look more closely at the journal, Charley sees that it's written in code. As Charley and her friends work to decode the journal, it's more and more obvious that she has found more than an old backpack and journal--she's discovered what may be the key to an unsolved murder.
I always enjoy Leslie Nagel's mysteries. They are fresh and clever and feature sharp characters. This may be my favorite since the first Oakwood Mystery. I feel like these stories have a little something for everyone--a puzzle to solve, yes, but also humor, wit, and a little sizzle of romance.
I always enjoy Leslie Nagel's mysteries. They are fresh and clever and feature sharp characters. This may be my favorite since the first Oakwood Mystery. I feel like these stories have a little something for everyone--a puzzle to solve, yes, but also humor, wit, and a little sizzle of romance.
April 15, 2019
I really enjoy this series and by golly right from page one you are in the thick of things with a tornado getting ready to hit. Luckily Charley and Katie are spared as they are at the local high school and the resident janitor takes them into the tunnels that run under the property as the storm passes over.
While down there, Charley comes across an old backpack and finds a journal written in code. This ends up being tied to a cold case from forty years ago and sets off a whole new look at things. But first the code has to be cracked and that means lot of red herrings, twists and turns along the way along with a current murder that ties in as well.
I was quite surprised and pleased with the outcome of this cold case. It was well written and kept me engaged the entire time. An enjoyable book to add to your summer reading list!
While down there, Charley comes across an old backpack and finds a journal written in code. This ends up being tied to a cold case from forty years ago and sets off a whole new look at things. But first the code has to be cracked and that means lot of red herrings, twists and turns along the way along with a current murder that ties in as well.
I was quite surprised and pleased with the outcome of this cold case. It was well written and kept me engaged the entire time. An enjoyable book to add to your summer reading list!
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