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Sophie Kimball Mystery #5
Molded 4 Murder
A view to a kiln …
Sophie “Phee” Kimball enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a private investigator. If only her mother Harriet could enjoy her retirement at Sun City West in Arizona—instead of constantly getting involved with retirees being prematurely put out to pasture. This time Quentin Dussler, a prominent member of the clay sculpting club, was found dead, clutching a piece of paper scrawled with Phee’s mother’s name.
Terrified she’s been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step—placing herself in the crosshairs of a stonefaced killer …
Praise for the Sophie Kimball Mysteries
“A witty adventure that will leave you laughing out loud.”
—Stephanie Blackmoore, author of the Wedding Planner Mystery Series, on Booked 4 Murder
“Fun characters, a touch of humor, and a great mystery, the perfect combination for a cozy.”
—Lena Gregory, author of the Bay Island Psychic Mysteries, on Ditched 4 Murder
Sophie “Phee” Kimball enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a private investigator. If only her mother Harriet could enjoy her retirement at Sun City West in Arizona—instead of constantly getting involved with retirees being prematurely put out to pasture. This time Quentin Dussler, a prominent member of the clay sculpting club, was found dead, clutching a piece of paper scrawled with Phee’s mother’s name.
Terrified she’s been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step—placing herself in the crosshairs of a stonefaced killer …
Praise for the Sophie Kimball Mysteries
“A witty adventure that will leave you laughing out loud.”
—Stephanie Blackmoore, author of the Wedding Planner Mystery Series, on Booked 4 Murder
“Fun characters, a touch of humor, and a great mystery, the perfect combination for a cozy.”
—Lena Gregory, author of the Bay Island Psychic Mysteries, on Ditched 4 Murder
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 27, 2019
102 people are currently reading
335 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Eaton
31 books344 followersAnn I. Goldfarb
New York native Ann I. Goldfarb spent most of her life in education, first as a classroom teacher and later as a middle school principal and professional staff developer. Writing as J. C. Eaton, along with her husband, James Clapp, they have authored the Sophie Kimball Mysteries (Kensington), The Wine Trail Mysteries (Kensington Lyrical Underground), and coming in August 2018, The Marcie Rayner Mysteries (Camel). In addition, Ann has nine published YA time travel mysteries under her own name. Visit the websites at:
www.jceatonmysteries.com
www.facebook.com/JCEatonauthor/
www.timetravelmysteries.com
James E. Clapp
When James E. Clapp retired as the tasting room manager for a large upstate New York winery, he never imagined he’d be co-authoring cozy mysteries with his wife, Ann I. Goldfarb. Non-fiction in the form of informational brochures and workshop materials treating the winery industry were his forte along with an extensive background and experience in construction that started with his service in the U.S. Navy and included vocational school classroom teaching. Visit the website at www.jceatonauthor.com
New York native Ann I. Goldfarb spent most of her life in education, first as a classroom teacher and later as a middle school principal and professional staff developer. Writing as J. C. Eaton, along with her husband, James Clapp, they have authored the Sophie Kimball Mysteries (Kensington), The Wine Trail Mysteries (Kensington Lyrical Underground), and coming in August 2018, The Marcie Rayner Mysteries (Camel). In addition, Ann has nine published YA time travel mysteries under her own name. Visit the websites at:
www.jceatonmysteries.com
www.facebook.com/JCEatonauthor/
www.timetravelmysteries.com
James E. Clapp
When James E. Clapp retired as the tasting room manager for a large upstate New York winery, he never imagined he’d be co-authoring cozy mysteries with his wife, Ann I. Goldfarb. Non-fiction in the form of informational brochures and workshop materials treating the winery industry were his forte along with an extensive background and experience in construction that started with his service in the U.S. Navy and included vocational school classroom teaching. Visit the website at www.jceatonauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
October 18, 2019
Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton is the fifth book in the cozy Sophie Kimball Mystery series. Each book of the series contains it’s own mystery that is solved by the end so the books can be read in any order or as a standalone if choosing to do so. However, those that read from the beginning will get all of the character development throughout the series.
In the beginning of this series readers were introduced to Sophie ‘Phee’ Kimball who had been living in Minnesota while her retired mother was living in her retirement community in Sun City West, Arizona. Sophie’s mother called her daughter frantic that there was a murderer on the loose and targeting her book club thinking her daughter who worked as a bookkeeper for the police department was as good as any detective.
After traveling to Arizona to help her mother Sophie decided it was time for a change and being close to her mother would help keep her out of the path of any more murderers. A friend of Sophie’s just happened to want to start up a private investigating business so a new job for Sophie quickly became available. Keeping out of murders wasn’t in the cards though as now Sophie is caught up in yet another death when a body is found with her mother’s name on them.
Ok, if it isn’t already obvious that I really enjoy this series I will say so yet again with this review of the fifth of the series. This series has just the right mix of all the elements I enjoy in cozies. There’s the quirky and funny vibe the side characters give, the main character with a connection to law enforcement and plenty of twists and turns to the mysteries. As always I’ll look forward to any more added to this mystery series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
In the beginning of this series readers were introduced to Sophie ‘Phee’ Kimball who had been living in Minnesota while her retired mother was living in her retirement community in Sun City West, Arizona. Sophie’s mother called her daughter frantic that there was a murderer on the loose and targeting her book club thinking her daughter who worked as a bookkeeper for the police department was as good as any detective.
After traveling to Arizona to help her mother Sophie decided it was time for a change and being close to her mother would help keep her out of the path of any more murderers. A friend of Sophie’s just happened to want to start up a private investigating business so a new job for Sophie quickly became available. Keeping out of murders wasn’t in the cards though as now Sophie is caught up in yet another death when a body is found with her mother’s name on them.
Ok, if it isn’t already obvious that I really enjoy this series I will say so yet again with this review of the fifth of the series. This series has just the right mix of all the elements I enjoy in cozies. There’s the quirky and funny vibe the side characters give, the main character with a connection to law enforcement and plenty of twists and turns to the mysteries. As always I’ll look forward to any more added to this mystery series.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
July 29, 2019
MOLDED 4 MURDER is the fifth in the Sophie Kimball series by J. C. Eaton. While it isn’t necessary to read the earlier books in the series as each mystery stand alone, readers might still prefer to get to know the characters and how they relate to Sophie, Phee to her friends, from the beginning. This gives the reader the opportunity to watch the relationships grow. It also gives the reader the opportunity to watch as Phee begins to expand her work activities from being the bookkeeper for a detective agency to doing some of the investigative work..
In this latest outing, Phee’s mother has joined the pottery club at her senior citizen’s development and is enjoying spending time creating in clay. Her enjoyment is interrupted when the instructor for the class is found murdered with a scrap of paper containing her name and the name of her friend clasped in his grasp. Her mother and friends immediately jump to the conclusion that it’s a hit list, and some mildly humorous panic sets in. Of course, they are all urging Phee to solve the mystery for their piece of mind.
From her point of view, Phee has learned in the past these senior citizens are a font of information, it’s just a matter of weeding through to pick out what’s important from what has no bearing on the current case. There is an added element in this book because there is a second murder that takes place in a luxurious senior citizen’s high rise. Phee comes into contact with a number of these residents as well, and it’s very entertaining to listen to the conclusions drawn by the various residents.
As Phee continues to investigate, she is drawn to the high desert where she makes a series of discoveries, although she still doesn’t understand their significance. As she continues to investigate, Phee solves not only the question of who the murderer is but several other minor issues along the way. Throughout the book, the reader can sit back, relax, and read how Phee reaches the conclusion she does. If the reader likes to solve mysteries, then there is ample opportunity for that to happen as well with a good assortment of clues and red herrings.
All around, this is a light-hearted read that is thoroughly entertaining. It can be picked up and read in short bursts if that is what is preferred, but is also entertaining enough to hold the reader's interest over a longer period of time if so desired. If you are looking for a book that will allow you to relax for one hour or several, this might just be the one for you. My thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an advance digital read copy in exchange for an honest review.
In this latest outing, Phee’s mother has joined the pottery club at her senior citizen’s development and is enjoying spending time creating in clay. Her enjoyment is interrupted when the instructor for the class is found murdered with a scrap of paper containing her name and the name of her friend clasped in his grasp. Her mother and friends immediately jump to the conclusion that it’s a hit list, and some mildly humorous panic sets in. Of course, they are all urging Phee to solve the mystery for their piece of mind.
From her point of view, Phee has learned in the past these senior citizens are a font of information, it’s just a matter of weeding through to pick out what’s important from what has no bearing on the current case. There is an added element in this book because there is a second murder that takes place in a luxurious senior citizen’s high rise. Phee comes into contact with a number of these residents as well, and it’s very entertaining to listen to the conclusions drawn by the various residents.
As Phee continues to investigate, she is drawn to the high desert where she makes a series of discoveries, although she still doesn’t understand their significance. As she continues to investigate, Phee solves not only the question of who the murderer is but several other minor issues along the way. Throughout the book, the reader can sit back, relax, and read how Phee reaches the conclusion she does. If the reader likes to solve mysteries, then there is ample opportunity for that to happen as well with a good assortment of clues and red herrings.
All around, this is a light-hearted read that is thoroughly entertaining. It can be picked up and read in short bursts if that is what is preferred, but is also entertaining enough to hold the reader's interest over a longer period of time if so desired. If you are looking for a book that will allow you to relax for one hour or several, this might just be the one for you. My thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for providing me with an advance digital read copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 18, 2019
Sophie “Phee” Kimball makes friends with a couple of sisters, Gertie and Trudy that live in luxurious retirement home in Sun City. Phee has relationship with Marshall one of private investigator for whom Phee works. The fifth installment find that Phee's Mother and a friend have joined a pottery club. The private investigators are consulting with sheriff of Sun City West about the death of, Quentin Dussler, prominent member of the clay club. Phee's Mother and a friends names are on a paper clutch in Dussier's hand upsetting her Mother. Phee becomes more deeply involve with the clay club and matter concerning the accountant at retirement home. This book changes directions,several times before the final statement. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS BOOK AND SERIES.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
Disclosure: Thanks to Kensington Books for a copy through NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own.
October 19, 2019
Dollycas’s Thoughts
The Gertrudes return with a hot case for Sophie “Phee” Kimball. Items are going missing from resident’s rooms at The Lillian, a luxury senior residence, and they want her to investigate. After receiving a list of the “stolen” items, Phee decides it is a case she can handle without bothering Marshall or Nate. They are busy with a new case that may involve her mother, Harriet. Harriet has joined the ceramics group at Sun City West and one of the instructors has been murdered and was found holding a slip of paper that bore Harriet’s name. When Harriet finds out she demands Phee join the investigation and find the killer immediately. That is not going to be easy but Phee goes to great lengths to fulfill her mother’s wishes.
This was a very captivating cozy.
Phee again is pulled away from bookkeeping duties for two investigations that may tie together. She finds herself trekking around in the desert looking for clues with her Aunt Ina as her sidekick along with trips to The Lillian, and always at her mother’s beck and call, all in a quest to find who killed Quentin Dussler and why.
I really enjoy catching up with these characters. The crew at Williams Investigations is really starting to gel. Augusta keeps the office running and adds her own two cents when necessary. Phee handles the books and jumps in to investigate as needed, more often than not, as this series continues. Nate and Marshall, the actual licensed investigators, handle the cases but know they couldn’t do it without the ladies’ help. I love that the relationship between Marshall and Phee is progressing nicely. Then we have Harriet. She is a treasure. She tries to micromanage Phee’s life but Phee and now Marshall have figured out how to handle Harriet. Gertie, Trudy, and the other seniors bring their own shenanigans to the story too. The authors have created characters with depth and unique making it very easy to keep everyone straight.
Speaking of unique, the mystery this time was full of twists and took a very unexpected path as the motivation for the murder was delved into. Our sleuths really had to dig deep to find out what was going on. Red herrings, yes, there are a few. We are also treated to some very exciting moments. I really liked that Aunt Ina played a bigger role. The story was so well-plotted. I never would have solved this one on my own. It was a complete surprise. These authors also know where to add the humor in perfect amounts. Laughter in all the right places to keep things cozy while letting the drama shine to give readers a great mystery.
These characters are relatable, their journey this time was so entertaining. I also loved that we traveled to more places in Arizona. Molded 4 Murder is a terrific addition to this series. Each new book in this series becomes my new favorite. J.C. Eaton never disappoints. I am excited by the little cliffhanger – Dressed Up 4 Murder comes out on February 25, 2020.
The Gertrudes return with a hot case for Sophie “Phee” Kimball. Items are going missing from resident’s rooms at The Lillian, a luxury senior residence, and they want her to investigate. After receiving a list of the “stolen” items, Phee decides it is a case she can handle without bothering Marshall or Nate. They are busy with a new case that may involve her mother, Harriet. Harriet has joined the ceramics group at Sun City West and one of the instructors has been murdered and was found holding a slip of paper that bore Harriet’s name. When Harriet finds out she demands Phee join the investigation and find the killer immediately. That is not going to be easy but Phee goes to great lengths to fulfill her mother’s wishes.
This was a very captivating cozy.
Phee again is pulled away from bookkeeping duties for two investigations that may tie together. She finds herself trekking around in the desert looking for clues with her Aunt Ina as her sidekick along with trips to The Lillian, and always at her mother’s beck and call, all in a quest to find who killed Quentin Dussler and why.
I really enjoy catching up with these characters. The crew at Williams Investigations is really starting to gel. Augusta keeps the office running and adds her own two cents when necessary. Phee handles the books and jumps in to investigate as needed, more often than not, as this series continues. Nate and Marshall, the actual licensed investigators, handle the cases but know they couldn’t do it without the ladies’ help. I love that the relationship between Marshall and Phee is progressing nicely. Then we have Harriet. She is a treasure. She tries to micromanage Phee’s life but Phee and now Marshall have figured out how to handle Harriet. Gertie, Trudy, and the other seniors bring their own shenanigans to the story too. The authors have created characters with depth and unique making it very easy to keep everyone straight.
Speaking of unique, the mystery this time was full of twists and took a very unexpected path as the motivation for the murder was delved into. Our sleuths really had to dig deep to find out what was going on. Red herrings, yes, there are a few. We are also treated to some very exciting moments. I really liked that Aunt Ina played a bigger role. The story was so well-plotted. I never would have solved this one on my own. It was a complete surprise. These authors also know where to add the humor in perfect amounts. Laughter in all the right places to keep things cozy while letting the drama shine to give readers a great mystery.
These characters are relatable, their journey this time was so entertaining. I also loved that we traveled to more places in Arizona. Molded 4 Murder is a terrific addition to this series. Each new book in this series becomes my new favorite. J.C. Eaton never disappoints. I am excited by the little cliffhanger – Dressed Up 4 Murder comes out on February 25, 2020.
October 8, 2019
Sophie works as a bookkeeper for a PI. Her mother gets involved with retirees that are being murdered. The latest case is a member of the clay sculpting club, he is found murdered with a note in his hand with Sophie’s mother’s name on it. Harriet wants Sophie to investigate and the path leads to a plush retirement home where the residents are complaining about petty thefts but afraid to go to the director.
July 26, 2019
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
This was my first book in this series, although not the first I've read by this author. I really enjoyed how this was set up, because Sophie or Phee as she's known, has a unique aspect in being a bookkeeper for a private investigation firm. This means she is privy to some different information than our usual cozy sleuths, as well as having a team behind her with more resources. She still has a network of sources on her own, as well as a knack for investigation, but it's not the only thing.
The mystery was really different too, like none I've ever read. I liked how everything tied together, because at first all I could see was the pieces and it was satisfying to see everything come together. Things you couldn't even fathom being related ended up important in the end, and the characters you dismissed as background noise were the focus. I also liked the almost comedic appearances by the Mother and the Aunt, and I have to ask what the heck with the name 'Streetman' but somehow that worked too!
If you're looking for a new cozy, then this is a real gem Five stars.
This was my first book in this series, although not the first I've read by this author. I really enjoyed how this was set up, because Sophie or Phee as she's known, has a unique aspect in being a bookkeeper for a private investigation firm. This means she is privy to some different information than our usual cozy sleuths, as well as having a team behind her with more resources. She still has a network of sources on her own, as well as a knack for investigation, but it's not the only thing.
The mystery was really different too, like none I've ever read. I liked how everything tied together, because at first all I could see was the pieces and it was satisfying to see everything come together. Things you couldn't even fathom being related ended up important in the end, and the characters you dismissed as background noise were the focus. I also liked the almost comedic appearances by the Mother and the Aunt, and I have to ask what the heck with the name 'Streetman' but somehow that worked too!
If you're looking for a new cozy, then this is a real gem Five stars.
August 21, 2019
Molded 4 Murder by J. C. Eaton is the 5th book in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series, and another fun read. Sophie, “Phee”, Kimball gets sucked into another murder investigation by her mother and friends. When a well know sculptor is found murdered, with Phee's mom and her friend's names on the list, Phee of course is concerned. Phee is an accountant for a private eye firm, and her boyfriend is one of the private eyes. This book has a lot going in it, it felt like being back with old friends. I love this series, this book made me laugh out loud, it was so funny. Once I started this book, I could not stop reading it until I was done. Not only is this book an exciting mystery but also very refreshing and a quick read. If you love funny cozy mysteries, which are my favorite, I strongly recommend this book/series.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. Thank you.
July 24, 2019
5 stars
Sophie “Phee” Kimball is back for another exciting, fun-filled cozy mystery. J.C. Eaton has brought back all of the regulars from this series including Phee’s eccentric mother, Streetman and her mom's book club friends. I just thoroughly enjoy this series. It is refreshing to have a cozy mystery series feature active senior citizens who “try” to help Phee when she gets in over her head.
The plotline is one that is entirely plausible, yet something I never would have considered. I had figured out the mystery about halfway through the book; however, the writing is so good and the story so much fun I didn’t really mind figuring it out in advance.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, clean mystery series. I cannot wait for the next one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #Molded4Murder #NetGalley
Sophie “Phee” Kimball is back for another exciting, fun-filled cozy mystery. J.C. Eaton has brought back all of the regulars from this series including Phee’s eccentric mother, Streetman and her mom's book club friends. I just thoroughly enjoy this series. It is refreshing to have a cozy mystery series feature active senior citizens who “try” to help Phee when she gets in over her head.
The plotline is one that is entirely plausible, yet something I never would have considered. I had figured out the mystery about halfway through the book; however, the writing is so good and the story so much fun I didn’t really mind figuring it out in advance.
I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for a fun, clean mystery series. I cannot wait for the next one!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and NetGalley. The views given are my own. #Molded4Murder #NetGalley
February 26, 2022
4 stelle e mezza
Altra serie finita nel dimenticatoio... Stavolta ho apprezzato la lettura di più che alcuni libri precedenti, forse perché mi sono abituata alla "pazzia" della madre della protagonista o forse perché appare un po' meno nella storia, non so. Comunque sia, ho apprezzato la storia e ho trovato la soluzione del giallo più complicata di quanto avessi previsto.
Altra serie finita nel dimenticatoio... Stavolta ho apprezzato la lettura di più che alcuni libri precedenti, forse perché mi sono abituata alla "pazzia" della madre della protagonista o forse perché appare un po' meno nella storia, non so. Comunque sia, ho apprezzato la storia e ho trovato la soluzione del giallo più complicata di quanto avessi previsto.
August 16, 2019
Though at times in this one I got annoyed at the main character it's still one of my favorite cozy series!
Things were going well until a murder victim is found with a piece of paper that has Sophie's mom and friend on it. What kind of a list is it? Of course, when Nate, Sophie's boss who is a private investigator who often works with the local cops lets her mom and friend now they think it's a hit list! :)
Then a couple of older ladies that Phee had met previously wants her to look into some thefts happening at the Lillian a very nice retirement home they live in, she didn't know that it was going to end up bringing her right back to Nate's case. Phee isn't a PI she is just a bookkeeper but she can't help but snoop even if she says she isn't going too! Especially when her mother and all these other seniors rope her into things and she has a very inquisitive mind.
I really like Sophie and I like how inquisitive she is and that she like solving the crimes but this time she really kind of drove me crazy. She jump to conclusions as bad as her mother Harriet always does which drives Phee crazy! Every time she had a clue she just knew what it was all about she had so many theories going Nate and Marshall's heads were spinning. She was finding good clues but geesh that was annoying and she took stupid risk sometimes. I also love Nate and and Marshall as well as all the senior ladies!
It had a pretty good mystery as I had a hard time figuring out who done it and even when I did figure it out it wasn't much before Phee.
This series is laugh out loud funny and I would recommend it to anyone who loves to laugh while reading their cozy mystery.
Things were going well until a murder victim is found with a piece of paper that has Sophie's mom and friend on it. What kind of a list is it? Of course, when Nate, Sophie's boss who is a private investigator who often works with the local cops lets her mom and friend now they think it's a hit list! :)
Then a couple of older ladies that Phee had met previously wants her to look into some thefts happening at the Lillian a very nice retirement home they live in, she didn't know that it was going to end up bringing her right back to Nate's case. Phee isn't a PI she is just a bookkeeper but she can't help but snoop even if she says she isn't going too! Especially when her mother and all these other seniors rope her into things and she has a very inquisitive mind.
I really like Sophie and I like how inquisitive she is and that she like solving the crimes but this time she really kind of drove me crazy. She jump to conclusions as bad as her mother Harriet always does which drives Phee crazy! Every time she had a clue she just knew what it was all about she had so many theories going Nate and Marshall's heads were spinning. She was finding good clues but geesh that was annoying and she took stupid risk sometimes. I also love Nate and and Marshall as well as all the senior ladies!
It had a pretty good mystery as I had a hard time figuring out who done it and even when I did figure it out it wasn't much before Phee.
This series is laugh out loud funny and I would recommend it to anyone who loves to laugh while reading their cozy mystery.
August 4, 2019
I always think Phee's mysteries can't get any better and then the next book comes out! When Phee learns of a possible "hit list" that has her mother and her mother's best friend on it, Sun City West will never be the same!
In Molded 4 Murder, I loved having the delightfully blunt Augusta and the "live life to the fullest" Aunt Ina more involved in the mystery. Augusta is hilarious, efficient and plays a major role in solving the mystery. Aunt Ina shows she can detect with the best of them. Of course, Harriet (Phee's mother), Lucinda, Shirley and all the gang from the book and theater club make an appearance. We meet new fun and quirky characters at The Lillian, a posh living community for the 80 and over set. The "Gertrudes" were favorites of mine! Marshall and Nate find keeping up with Phee, Augusta and Aunt Ina a struggle! And the charmingly neurotic Streetman is always ready to, well - hide!
Molded 4 Murder is a perfect mystery that will keep you reading late into the night!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of the book.
In Molded 4 Murder, I loved having the delightfully blunt Augusta and the "live life to the fullest" Aunt Ina more involved in the mystery. Augusta is hilarious, efficient and plays a major role in solving the mystery. Aunt Ina shows she can detect with the best of them. Of course, Harriet (Phee's mother), Lucinda, Shirley and all the gang from the book and theater club make an appearance. We meet new fun and quirky characters at The Lillian, a posh living community for the 80 and over set. The "Gertrudes" were favorites of mine! Marshall and Nate find keeping up with Phee, Augusta and Aunt Ina a struggle! And the charmingly neurotic Streetman is always ready to, well - hide!
Molded 4 Murder is a perfect mystery that will keep you reading late into the night!
I received an ARC from NetGalley for a fair and honest review of the book.
August 1, 2019
Sophie "Phee" Kimball is up to more sleuthing in Molded 4 Murder.
When a phone call to Phee from the Gertrude sisters sends her to the Lillian, an assisted living facility, Phee has no idea about what she is about to uncover.
Working with her love interest, Marshall, Phee is determined to find out why a stolen piece of pottery is so important, and who is stealing from the residents at the Lillian.
While I found most of this story to flow smoothly, I did find a few areas that tended to drag a bit.
Overall, I find this to be a really fun series, with a lot of colorful characters that are sure to make the reader laugh.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
When a phone call to Phee from the Gertrude sisters sends her to the Lillian, an assisted living facility, Phee has no idea about what she is about to uncover.
Working with her love interest, Marshall, Phee is determined to find out why a stolen piece of pottery is so important, and who is stealing from the residents at the Lillian.
While I found most of this story to flow smoothly, I did find a few areas that tended to drag a bit.
Overall, I find this to be a really fun series, with a lot of colorful characters that are sure to make the reader laugh.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for approving me to read this book.
August 27, 2019
Fifth in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series, this outrageously funny, intriguing, cozy mystery is the best in the series to date. It is fun to watch Phee (Sophie) and her mother Harriet drive each other to distraction and see Aunt Ina have a bigger part in this investigation than usual. The mystery is more complex than I anticipated! From The Lillian in Sun City West to Punkin Center and Tonto National Forest, Phee sees much more of Arizona than the average resident. The authors have taken the best of this elegant resort city, added Midwest charm, senior flair, and international crime with ties to Arizona for a fabulous romp through the desert!
Harriet and friend Lucinda’s current artistic endeavor includes learning how to craft things from clay at the clay club in Sun City West. Harriet insists that Phee, who left Mankato, Minnesota a couple years ago and now lives in Glendale, and her boyfriend and private investigator Marshall attend the Creations in Clay event in late June, still a few weeks away. Phee, Marshall, and Nate, their boss and owner of Williams Investigations all worked at the police department in Mankato. Former detectives Nate and Marshall stay busy as PI’s and are content with what they do. Phee does what she did in Mankato, keeping the books. Thanks to Harriet and her friends in the Booked 4 Murder book club, Phee gets pulled into more cases – and trouble – than imaginable.
When Phee was coming to visit her mother a couple years earlier, she met the “Gertrudes”, sisters Gertie and Trudy on the flight. They reside at The Lillian, a luxury senior residence. They called Phee one day, as someone was going into people’s apartments and taking things. Most missing items were of little monetary value yet going into their homes and taking away their privacy is critical. Phee agreed to meet with the residence director, as the residents are concerned of retaliation from the staff if she knows who is concerned.
While she talked with the Gertrudes, the sheriff’s office asked Nate’s consult on a homicide in Sun City West, who then asked Phee to meet Nate at her mother’s home. The dead man was a gifted clay artisan, found in his garage studio. He was holding a note with two names on it: Harriet’s and Lucinda’s. The ladies knew who Quentin was but had never bought anything from him. Harriet is a wreck and wants Nate, Phee, and Marshall to find out whodunit fast – as a possible hit list is not her favorite place to be.
The far-reaching, devious tentacles are amazing. I could never have come up with the full solution for this mystery! Sure, I had a few pieces put together, but certainly nothing like the entire scope of crimes. The novel ends with surprises and potential changes for Phee and is very satisfying. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-crafted cozy mysteries, laugh-out-loud humor, eye-rolling, senior (NOT senile) characters, and a bit of romance. You won’t be disappointed!
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Harriet and friend Lucinda’s current artistic endeavor includes learning how to craft things from clay at the clay club in Sun City West. Harriet insists that Phee, who left Mankato, Minnesota a couple years ago and now lives in Glendale, and her boyfriend and private investigator Marshall attend the Creations in Clay event in late June, still a few weeks away. Phee, Marshall, and Nate, their boss and owner of Williams Investigations all worked at the police department in Mankato. Former detectives Nate and Marshall stay busy as PI’s and are content with what they do. Phee does what she did in Mankato, keeping the books. Thanks to Harriet and her friends in the Booked 4 Murder book club, Phee gets pulled into more cases – and trouble – than imaginable.
When Phee was coming to visit her mother a couple years earlier, she met the “Gertrudes”, sisters Gertie and Trudy on the flight. They reside at The Lillian, a luxury senior residence. They called Phee one day, as someone was going into people’s apartments and taking things. Most missing items were of little monetary value yet going into their homes and taking away their privacy is critical. Phee agreed to meet with the residence director, as the residents are concerned of retaliation from the staff if she knows who is concerned.
While she talked with the Gertrudes, the sheriff’s office asked Nate’s consult on a homicide in Sun City West, who then asked Phee to meet Nate at her mother’s home. The dead man was a gifted clay artisan, found in his garage studio. He was holding a note with two names on it: Harriet’s and Lucinda’s. The ladies knew who Quentin was but had never bought anything from him. Harriet is a wreck and wants Nate, Phee, and Marshall to find out whodunit fast – as a possible hit list is not her favorite place to be.
The far-reaching, devious tentacles are amazing. I could never have come up with the full solution for this mystery! Sure, I had a few pieces put together, but certainly nothing like the entire scope of crimes. The novel ends with surprises and potential changes for Phee and is very satisfying. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy well-crafted cozy mysteries, laugh-out-loud humor, eye-rolling, senior (NOT senile) characters, and a bit of romance. You won’t be disappointed!
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
August 11, 2019
Molded 4 Murder is the 5th instalment in the "Sophie Kimball Mystery" series. I really enjoy this series and have bought all of them in paperback.
A view to a kiln …
Sophie “Phee” Kimball enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a private investigator. If only her mother Harriet could enjoy her retirement at Sun City West in Arizona—instead of constantly getting involved with retirees being prematurely put out to pasture. This time Quentin Dussler, a prominent member of the clay sculpting club, was found dead, clutching a piece of paper scrawled with Phee’s mother’s name.
Terrified she’s been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step—placing herself in the crosshairs of a stonefaced killer …
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed. There is plenty of humour, too with Harriet and the rest of her crew from the Sun City Retirement Community.
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it in one sitting. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
A view to a kiln …
Sophie “Phee” Kimball enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a private investigator. If only her mother Harriet could enjoy her retirement at Sun City West in Arizona—instead of constantly getting involved with retirees being prematurely put out to pasture. This time Quentin Dussler, a prominent member of the clay sculpting club, was found dead, clutching a piece of paper scrawled with Phee’s mother’s name.
Terrified she’s been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step—placing herself in the crosshairs of a stonefaced killer …
The mystery is interesting and well plotted, and I loved the characters which are well developed. There is plenty of humour, too with Harriet and the rest of her crew from the Sun City Retirement Community.
I found myself engrossed in the story and reading it in one sitting. It was entertaining, full of twists and turns as well as a few surprises.
I requested and received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my OWN.
October 17, 2019
Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton in an extraordinary mystery with multiple parts and a supporting cast of eccentric personalities.
Will Phee and Williams Investigations wrap up the murders before the Feds get involved?
Sophie "Phee" Kimball
I love Phee. She is our sleuth, main character, and point of view. Phee is fabulous at talking to people and finding the tidbits that people know about one another. You know, the gossips. Well, Phee uses their conversations to put together with other clues and figure out what is going on. She can't leave it to her boyfriend and boss, the private investigators.
My favorite thing about Phee is her internal voice, like the comments she makes in her head when talking to people like her mom and aunt. They are priceless. Phee's mom and aunt are marvelous, I don't think that she knows how lucky she is to have them budding into her daily life. Oh, and Streetman, is adorable.
Mystery
This mystery was superb. I kept getting caught up with the red herrings and trying to follow the clues, but I didn't see it coming until Phee figured it out. There is so much going on with two murders, break-ins, and thefts. Then there is Harriet's name at each of the murders. I love it.
5 Stars for Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton
Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton is a delightfully written, excellent mystery with characters that keep you laughing. I enjoyed the story and therefore I am giving it 5 stars. If you love cozy mysteries this one is perfect so check it out.
Other Books in the Series
Pre-order now!
Giveaway
Prize: (3) Print Copy Molded 4 Murder (Sophie Kimball Mystery) by J.C. Eaton (U.S. Only)
Tour Organized by:
Will Phee and Williams Investigations wrap up the murders before the Feds get involved?
Sophie "Phee" Kimball
I love Phee. She is our sleuth, main character, and point of view. Phee is fabulous at talking to people and finding the tidbits that people know about one another. You know, the gossips. Well, Phee uses their conversations to put together with other clues and figure out what is going on. She can't leave it to her boyfriend and boss, the private investigators.
My favorite thing about Phee is her internal voice, like the comments she makes in her head when talking to people like her mom and aunt. They are priceless. Phee's mom and aunt are marvelous, I don't think that she knows how lucky she is to have them budding into her daily life. Oh, and Streetman, is adorable.
Mystery This mystery was superb. I kept getting caught up with the red herrings and trying to follow the clues, but I didn't see it coming until Phee figured it out. There is so much going on with two murders, break-ins, and thefts. Then there is Harriet's name at each of the murders. I love it.
5 Stars for Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton
Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton is a delightfully written, excellent mystery with characters that keep you laughing. I enjoyed the story and therefore I am giving it 5 stars. If you love cozy mysteries this one is perfect so check it out.
Other Books in the Series
Pre-order now!
Last one standing is the winner . . .
The holiday season has arrived and bookkeeper/amateur sleuth, Sophie “Phee” Kimball, would love nothing more than to enjoy the comforts of her new home with her detective boyfriend near Arizona’s Sun City West. Instead, her mother Harriet wants to showcase her chiweenie-chihuahua-dachshund Streetman in the Precious Pooches Holiday Extravaganza costume events. The festivities begin in October and end on St. Patrick’s Day—with the winner starring in the St. Pat’s Day parade. But things quickly turn an awful shade of green when Streetman uncovers a dead body under a tarp-covered grill in the neighbor’s yard.
The victim is Cameron Tully, a seafood distributor working out of Phoenix, who died from ingesting a toxic sago palm leaf. Before the police can even find a motive and suspect, another Precious Pooch owner nearly dies from the same poison. With Harriet believing someone’s targeting her and Streetman because of the costume contests, Phee will need a potful of Irish luck to sniff out a killer . . .
Giveaway
Prize: (3) Print Copy Molded 4 Murder (Sophie Kimball Mystery) by J.C. Eaton (U.S. Only)
Tour Organized by:
To find all the tour information, click the banner at the top of the page or HERE.
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Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Molded 4 Murder by J.C. Eaton. Check out the other stops and the giveaway.
Until the next time,
Happy Reading!
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
August 21, 2019
4 Stars
This is the fifth book in the Sophie “Phee” Kimball Mystery series by J.C. Eaton.
I find the premise of this a bit humorous. Phee’s mother thinks she has been targeted by assassins because a dead body is found clutching a piece of paper with her name on it. Couldn’t it have been a list of whom the person wanted to soon visit? Phee works for an investigator and thus is called into action to help dear ole mom.
It turns out to be whole lot more involved than just assassins. Someone has targeted the funds of the elderly residents of a facility that is similar to a nursing home yet isn’t. If the person isn’t caught soon, the criminal may bilk the residents out of more than just their money.
As is with many cozy mysteries, Phee is so much smarter than every seasoned investigator and detective sharing the story with her. She pays attention to the little details others overlook and listens to the residents when they share information that turns out to be a great source of intel.
The mystery was a lot more complex than it seems on the surface. And I appreciated that about this mystery. It wasn’t dumbed down for me. I hope this story doesn’t give some schmuck an idea about how to take people for wads of cash right under their noses. Makes me fearful for my elderly friends.
If you are looking for a great cozy mystery to dig into, definitely try out this series. Since this is book five you have a plethora of stories to choose from. Why not start at book one.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the fifth book in the Sophie “Phee” Kimball Mystery series by J.C. Eaton.
I find the premise of this a bit humorous. Phee’s mother thinks she has been targeted by assassins because a dead body is found clutching a piece of paper with her name on it. Couldn’t it have been a list of whom the person wanted to soon visit? Phee works for an investigator and thus is called into action to help dear ole mom.
It turns out to be whole lot more involved than just assassins. Someone has targeted the funds of the elderly residents of a facility that is similar to a nursing home yet isn’t. If the person isn’t caught soon, the criminal may bilk the residents out of more than just their money.
As is with many cozy mysteries, Phee is so much smarter than every seasoned investigator and detective sharing the story with her. She pays attention to the little details others overlook and listens to the residents when they share information that turns out to be a great source of intel.
The mystery was a lot more complex than it seems on the surface. And I appreciated that about this mystery. It wasn’t dumbed down for me. I hope this story doesn’t give some schmuck an idea about how to take people for wads of cash right under their noses. Makes me fearful for my elderly friends.
If you are looking for a great cozy mystery to dig into, definitely try out this series. Since this is book five you have a plethora of stories to choose from. Why not start at book one.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
March 1, 2020
This is my favorite comedy cozy. I give the authors much respect and kudos for all the laughs they give me while reading about Phee Kimball and her mother, her Aunt Ina, her mother's friends, her mother's neighbors and most of all her mother's dog, a Chiweenie, called Streetman. I recognize my own mother and her attachment to our dogs as a kid growing up. If I hadn't loved them so much, myself, I would have been jealous of the attention they got from my parents...as if they were my sisters and brothers too. Anyhow, I am all caught up with the series and can barely wait for #6 to come out shortly. I recommend this to anyone who is exasperated and feels like they are the only normal clown in the clown car!
October 2, 2020
Nice little book; it is what it is. Sometimes you need a quick diversion--sort of like a palate cleaner between heavy, spicy courses of a meal. Pleasant story and characters. Not totally predictable. If I run across another one, I'd probably read it.
September 1, 2022
Loved Augusta's role in the end. It matched her personality so well. And cute ending!
November 7, 2019
This is #5 in the fantastically fun (with great covers) Sophie Kimball Mystery series.
Yet again, readers get to enjoy hanging out with Sophie “Phee” Kimball, who still enjoys her job as bookkeeper for a private investigator. The only thing that’s really disturbing her now is the trouble her mother, Harriet, is having at her retirement community in Arizona called Sun City West. Instead of what most retirees do there, like enjoy the sun, swim, play cards, etc., Harriet has a penchant for starting up relationships with retirees who, oddly enough, are dying before their time.
Her track record is not changing a bit. This time her romance choice is Quentin Dussler. A well-respected man, high-up in the Sun City West sculpting club, Quentin is found dead. The only clue left behind was a piece of paper clutched in his hand with Harriet’s name written on it.
Absolutely convinced that assassins are out to get her, Harriet pulls Phee to her side and begs her to find out what the heck is going on. What Phee isn’t ready for, however, is the fact that a very intelligent, well-planned-out game is being played at Sun City West that only a brilliant murderer could conceive.
Filled with clues that make you go “Huh?” and a list of potential subjects that range from the charming to the witty to the intense, readers root for Phee as she goes up against a killer who may not stop until Phee is taken out well before her time. Enjoy this, once again, laugh-out-loud funny mystery that will make you scream for the author to get busy on Book #6!
Yet again, readers get to enjoy hanging out with Sophie “Phee” Kimball, who still enjoys her job as bookkeeper for a private investigator. The only thing that’s really disturbing her now is the trouble her mother, Harriet, is having at her retirement community in Arizona called Sun City West. Instead of what most retirees do there, like enjoy the sun, swim, play cards, etc., Harriet has a penchant for starting up relationships with retirees who, oddly enough, are dying before their time.
Her track record is not changing a bit. This time her romance choice is Quentin Dussler. A well-respected man, high-up in the Sun City West sculpting club, Quentin is found dead. The only clue left behind was a piece of paper clutched in his hand with Harriet’s name written on it.
Absolutely convinced that assassins are out to get her, Harriet pulls Phee to her side and begs her to find out what the heck is going on. What Phee isn’t ready for, however, is the fact that a very intelligent, well-planned-out game is being played at Sun City West that only a brilliant murderer could conceive.
Filled with clues that make you go “Huh?” and a list of potential subjects that range from the charming to the witty to the intense, readers root for Phee as she goes up against a killer who may not stop until Phee is taken out well before her time. Enjoy this, once again, laugh-out-loud funny mystery that will make you scream for the author to get busy on Book #6!
July 6, 2024
Another fun ride.
October 19, 2019
My Review:
Sophie "Phee" Kimball works as a bookkeeper for a private investigator who hires Marshall, the perfect co-investigator and romantic interest. Her mother Harriet is close by and fully involved in her life as is her aunt Ina. There is a marvelous group of support characters and in this series offering, the beautiful desert retirement community at Sun City West in Arizona. This entry to the series reads fine as a standalone, although reading from the beginning of the series always gives you a more fully developing protagonist witness to their growth.
It starts simply enough, with little things missing from the residents, and before you know it branches into a complex well-drawn plot beyond what you might have expected for a cozy mystery. Phee works quietly and methodically, working with the residents of the complex confronting twists and red herrings meant to help the reader solve the who and why. It's deliciously deceptive. V Williams
His Review:
How could it happen in such a tranquil environment? The victim is found with a paper in his hand with two names! Mom and Auntie, how could that be? The bookkeeper of a local investigation agency slips from gossip to intrigue and into a complicated plot that will lead you to a surprising finish. This page-turner left me guessing at every turn. I suspected some of the culprits at the end, but certainly was surprised how diabolical the ending was! A finely developed fun read. C E Williams
I was given this digital download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for mystery readers who enjoy a unique locale and engaging characters.
See our full reviews at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
Sophie "Phee" Kimball works as a bookkeeper for a private investigator who hires Marshall, the perfect co-investigator and romantic interest. Her mother Harriet is close by and fully involved in her life as is her aunt Ina. There is a marvelous group of support characters and in this series offering, the beautiful desert retirement community at Sun City West in Arizona. This entry to the series reads fine as a standalone, although reading from the beginning of the series always gives you a more fully developing protagonist witness to their growth.
It starts simply enough, with little things missing from the residents, and before you know it branches into a complex well-drawn plot beyond what you might have expected for a cozy mystery. Phee works quietly and methodically, working with the residents of the complex confronting twists and red herrings meant to help the reader solve the who and why. It's deliciously deceptive. V Williams
His Review:
How could it happen in such a tranquil environment? The victim is found with a paper in his hand with two names! Mom and Auntie, how could that be? The bookkeeper of a local investigation agency slips from gossip to intrigue and into a complicated plot that will lead you to a surprising finish. This page-turner left me guessing at every turn. I suspected some of the culprits at the end, but certainly was surprised how diabolical the ending was! A finely developed fun read. C E Williams
I was given this digital download by the publisher and NetGalley and greatly appreciated the opportunity to read and review. Recommended for mystery readers who enjoy a unique locale and engaging characters.
See our full reviews at https://rosepointpublishing.com/2019/...
August 18, 2019
This is a great cozy mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed! It is a stand-alone, but there is a common thread that runs through this series and I have read and enjoyed every single one of them!
The one thing that I enjoy most about this writing duo is that right at the beginning they get right to the point, none of this: where is this headed?? You get the outline right at the beginning.
"Phee" who is a bookkeeper for a detective agency in Arizona, usually gets snagged into helping with the investigation at the insistence of her retired mother, Harriet, who lives in a Sun City West retirement community
It starts out that Phee gets a visit from her two elderly friends who live at the LIllian, and want Phee to look into why the residents are having items stolen out of their personal belongings, when only a few people have access to the rooms, and why??
Then poor Quentin, he was found murdered in his garage with clay stuffed into his nose and mouth. Harriet, also belonged to the same clay sculpturing center, and Quentin was found with names written on a piece of paper and one name was Harriet's!
Over active imagination Harriet wants Phee to look into this as she is sure she is on a "hit list"
Poor Phee is at it again trying to solve this mystery and putting herself in harms way.
Are these two mysteries related? or just a coincidence? What would they possible have in common?
This cozy has more twists and turns than a bag of pretzels!
Hop along for the fun as the mystery (and a little romance) unfolds.
Pure 100% entertainment!
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book in advance for an honest review.
Please, do yourself a favor and order your copy today!!
The one thing that I enjoy most about this writing duo is that right at the beginning they get right to the point, none of this: where is this headed?? You get the outline right at the beginning.
"Phee" who is a bookkeeper for a detective agency in Arizona, usually gets snagged into helping with the investigation at the insistence of her retired mother, Harriet, who lives in a Sun City West retirement community
It starts out that Phee gets a visit from her two elderly friends who live at the LIllian, and want Phee to look into why the residents are having items stolen out of their personal belongings, when only a few people have access to the rooms, and why??
Then poor Quentin, he was found murdered in his garage with clay stuffed into his nose and mouth. Harriet, also belonged to the same clay sculpturing center, and Quentin was found with names written on a piece of paper and one name was Harriet's!
Over active imagination Harriet wants Phee to look into this as she is sure she is on a "hit list"
Poor Phee is at it again trying to solve this mystery and putting herself in harms way.
Are these two mysteries related? or just a coincidence? What would they possible have in common?
This cozy has more twists and turns than a bag of pretzels!
Hop along for the fun as the mystery (and a little romance) unfolds.
Pure 100% entertainment!
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me to read this book in advance for an honest review.
Please, do yourself a favor and order your copy today!!
January 10, 2020
A page turner. Molded 4 Murder had this reader engaged and forgetting 'real life'
Molded 4 Murder was hard to put down!
From page 1 I was on the edge of my seat.
All of the characters were fun and engaging. Some quirky. Some funny and some just fun to hang around with.
Phee and her work associates her boss Nate, her boyfriend who is an investigator and Augusta who answers the phones for the P.I. firm are all great characters.
August is a #'s girls and helps figure some clues.
Phee as most good wanna sleuth's are can chit chat with people and find answers. It takes her no time to solve the petty crimes at the Lillian.
But figuring out who did who and why takes a little more effort and Phee ends up getting her aunt to go check out leads. Aunt Ina is a go getter and has an eye for detail like $400.00 manicures on a bar maid. Hmm.
But it's not until her mom finagles Phee into cleaning out a closet in the pottery club room that clues start coming together.
Phee's aunt and mother makes you laugh and you roll your eyes along with Phee as she deals with their silly ideas and suggestions.
The residents of the Lillian retirement community are quirky, funny and loveable.
From the Gertrude sisters to the 80 + resident that tells Phee 'Let's meet today I might not be around next week.'
I enjoyed Phee and her determination to get answers and solve the mysterious.
I enjoyed Molded 4 Murder and anxiously waiting to read the next book in the series.
I really like the cover. It was fun and had me wondering about the story from the beginning. After finishing the book it was fun to look at the cover again and see all the clues there.
I received a complimentary copy.
Molded 4 Murder was hard to put down!
From page 1 I was on the edge of my seat.
All of the characters were fun and engaging. Some quirky. Some funny and some just fun to hang around with.
Phee and her work associates her boss Nate, her boyfriend who is an investigator and Augusta who answers the phones for the P.I. firm are all great characters.
August is a #'s girls and helps figure some clues.
Phee as most good wanna sleuth's are can chit chat with people and find answers. It takes her no time to solve the petty crimes at the Lillian.
But figuring out who did who and why takes a little more effort and Phee ends up getting her aunt to go check out leads. Aunt Ina is a go getter and has an eye for detail like $400.00 manicures on a bar maid. Hmm.
But it's not until her mom finagles Phee into cleaning out a closet in the pottery club room that clues start coming together.
Phee's aunt and mother makes you laugh and you roll your eyes along with Phee as she deals with their silly ideas and suggestions.
The residents of the Lillian retirement community are quirky, funny and loveable.
From the Gertrude sisters to the 80 + resident that tells Phee 'Let's meet today I might not be around next week.'
I enjoyed Phee and her determination to get answers and solve the mysterious.
I enjoyed Molded 4 Murder and anxiously waiting to read the next book in the series.
I really like the cover. It was fun and had me wondering about the story from the beginning. After finishing the book it was fun to look at the cover again and see all the clues there.
I received a complimentary copy.
October 21, 2019
I was allowed to read this after the publication date.
Molded 4 Murder by J. C. Eaton is the 5th book in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series. This is a standalone story but you may want to read the others to get a feel for the characters’ backgrounds.
What I like about this series is Phee sees much more of Arizona than the average Arizonan. I chalk this up to being a transplant to the area. My personal experience has been that those that did not grow up in Arizona are the ones that have visited and experienced it’s diverse cultural and environmental settings. This story takes us from the Lillian in Sun City West to Punkin Center and Tonto National Forest.
In this story, Phee’s mother has joined the pottery club at her senior citizen’s development. Her instructor, Quentin Dussler, is found murdered with a scrap of paper containing her name and the name of her friend in his grasp.
Phee is the bookkeeper and sometimes investigator for Williams Investigations. Marshall or Nate are the licensed investigators. The team finds themselves with two investigations that may or may not be related.
The second investigation concerns items missing at the Lillian. What is happening to these? Phee thinks she can handle this one with the gentlemen’s help.
The storyline is good, the writing is well-done and there’s humor sprinkled throughout. This can be read as a standalone.
I was given an electronic Advanced Reader’s Copy by Netgalley. I am not required to leave a positive review.
Molded 4 Murder by J. C. Eaton is the 5th book in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series. This is a standalone story but you may want to read the others to get a feel for the characters’ backgrounds.
What I like about this series is Phee sees much more of Arizona than the average Arizonan. I chalk this up to being a transplant to the area. My personal experience has been that those that did not grow up in Arizona are the ones that have visited and experienced it’s diverse cultural and environmental settings. This story takes us from the Lillian in Sun City West to Punkin Center and Tonto National Forest.
In this story, Phee’s mother has joined the pottery club at her senior citizen’s development. Her instructor, Quentin Dussler, is found murdered with a scrap of paper containing her name and the name of her friend in his grasp.
Phee is the bookkeeper and sometimes investigator for Williams Investigations. Marshall or Nate are the licensed investigators. The team finds themselves with two investigations that may or may not be related.
The second investigation concerns items missing at the Lillian. What is happening to these? Phee thinks she can handle this one with the gentlemen’s help.
The storyline is good, the writing is well-done and there’s humor sprinkled throughout. This can be read as a standalone.
I was given an electronic Advanced Reader’s Copy by Netgalley. I am not required to leave a positive review.
February 17, 2020
Sophie "Phee" Kimball enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a private investigator. If only her mother Harriet could enjoy her retirement at Sun City West in Arizona instead of constantly getting involved with retirees being prematurely put out to pasture. This time Quentin Dussler, a prominent member of the clay sculpting club, was found dead, clutching a piece of paper scrawled with Phee's mother's name.
Terrified she's been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step placing herself in the cross hairs of a stone faced killer.
The mystery is full of clues, red herrings, twists, and turns that lead to the skillfully created conclusion. The plot is well written and well developed that moves along at a nice steady pace. The characters are well developed, engaging, quirky, and relatable which would make them fun to hang out with if they were real people.
The only thing that I would have wanted the author to add to this book would have been a picture of Harriet's pottery piece that was inspired by Streetman, it's description makes the piece sound very unique. I can't wait to read book #6 Dressed up 4 Murder to see how Phee and Marshall's relationship is progressing.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Kensington Books for my review.
Terrified she's been targeted by assassins, Harriet begs Phee to investigate. What Phee uncovers is a complicated scheme that only the most diabolical of murderers would ever devise. And as she chisels away at confusing clues and potential suspects, Phee unearths something far more precious and valuable than she could imagine. Eager for answers, she takes a bold step placing herself in the cross hairs of a stone faced killer.
The mystery is full of clues, red herrings, twists, and turns that lead to the skillfully created conclusion. The plot is well written and well developed that moves along at a nice steady pace. The characters are well developed, engaging, quirky, and relatable which would make them fun to hang out with if they were real people.
The only thing that I would have wanted the author to add to this book would have been a picture of Harriet's pottery piece that was inspired by Streetman, it's description makes the piece sound very unique. I can't wait to read book #6 Dressed up 4 Murder to see how Phee and Marshall's relationship is progressing.
I received an ARC of this book from Netgalley and Kensington Books for my review.
November 13, 2019
Sophia (Phee) Kimball is a full-time bookkeeper for Williams Investigations located in Glendale, Arizona. Nate, a retired police officer, moved to Arizona from Minnesota and persuaded Phee to work for his agency. Later he hired Marshall to join the group. They all knew each other from their jobs in Minnesota, but Phee and Marshall now have a romantic relationship. Phee lives close to her mother who, in league with her book club, keeps drama and gossip stirred up in the retirement community of Sun City West.
Phee finds herself drawn into an off-the-books mystery when two ladies she met on an airplane ask her to find out who is pilfering odd items in their resort retirement community. At the same time, Nate and Marshall are called in by local law enforcement as consultants when a semi-retired art teacher is found suffocated. Both mysteries get more complicated as the story progresses forming an intricate web. Not everyone is who they seem to be, and Phee’s favor to the ladies turns deadly. J.C. Eaton’s Molded 4 Murder includes quirky characters, humorous dialogue, investigators who know how to work as a team, and a lot of plot twists. It’s a cozy mystery that will leave you wanting more of the fun and action that this husband/wife writing duo dishes up so well.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Phee finds herself drawn into an off-the-books mystery when two ladies she met on an airplane ask her to find out who is pilfering odd items in their resort retirement community. At the same time, Nate and Marshall are called in by local law enforcement as consultants when a semi-retired art teacher is found suffocated. Both mysteries get more complicated as the story progresses forming an intricate web. Not everyone is who they seem to be, and Phee’s favor to the ladies turns deadly. J.C. Eaton’s Molded 4 Murder includes quirky characters, humorous dialogue, investigators who know how to work as a team, and a lot of plot twists. It’s a cozy mystery that will leave you wanting more of the fun and action that this husband/wife writing duo dishes up so well.
I would like to extend my thanks to netgalley.com and to Kensington Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 27, 2019
This is another fun entry in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series. Sophie, or as her friends know her, Phee, is an accountant/bookkeeper for a private detective agency. Her mother, Harriet, lives in a retirement community, just a few miles away from where Phee lives and works.
Harriet has become interested in crafts, specifically working with clay. One of the hotshot ceramic artists is found murdered and there is a note with Harriet and one of her friends names written on it at the scene of the crime.
Harriet begs her daughter to investigate and, against her better judgement, Phee once again starts nosing around trying to search out clues.
The search leads Phee to the one of the premier retirement complexes and to another murder and then the crimes start to pile up.
While Phee is intrepid, she also goes off on tangents and insists that whatever her latest theory is, is the key to solving the crime. She goes headfirst into trouble and, unsurprisingly, she ends up in danger more than once.
Still, it is a fun read and a good plot and is perfect for escapist cozy mystery reading. The book can be read stand-alone, however, I like reading the books in order. It allows me to see how both characters and relationships grow.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.
Harriet has become interested in crafts, specifically working with clay. One of the hotshot ceramic artists is found murdered and there is a note with Harriet and one of her friends names written on it at the scene of the crime.
Harriet begs her daughter to investigate and, against her better judgement, Phee once again starts nosing around trying to search out clues.
The search leads Phee to the one of the premier retirement complexes and to another murder and then the crimes start to pile up.
While Phee is intrepid, she also goes off on tangents and insists that whatever her latest theory is, is the key to solving the crime. She goes headfirst into trouble and, unsurprisingly, she ends up in danger more than once.
Still, it is a fun read and a good plot and is perfect for escapist cozy mystery reading. The book can be read stand-alone, however, I like reading the books in order. It allows me to see how both characters and relationships grow.
I was provided a digital advance reader copy of this book by the publisher via Netgalley.
September 23, 2019
Phee Kimbell enjoys working as a bookkeeper for a PI, but when two sweet senior ladies come asking for Phee to do a little investigation work of her own. The ladies brought Phee a list of items that the residents of a luxurious senior citizen’s retirement home believe have been stolen from their apartments. Most items on the list are items that were most likely misplace like a can of tuna or yarn. However, one resident is missing a vase that was made by local sculptor Quentin Dussler. Dussler was recently found dead in his studio. Are the theft really thefts or are they tied to Dussler’s murder? Can Phee help solve what happened to the missing items without getting pulled into the murder investigation?
This book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery or part of the series. This is book five in the series but my first book and I had no problems understand the storyline. The storyline is well plotted and moves at a steady pace. The mystery has several clues and red herrings to keep the reader engaged in their own investigation of the mysteries. This is a realistic but entertaining read. The characters are smart, likable, and well developed. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans, and I plan on reading more of this series in the future.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
This book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery or part of the series. This is book five in the series but my first book and I had no problems understand the storyline. The storyline is well plotted and moves at a steady pace. The mystery has several clues and red herrings to keep the reader engaged in their own investigation of the mysteries. This is a realistic but entertaining read. The characters are smart, likable, and well developed. I recommend this book to cozy mystery fans, and I plan on reading more of this series in the future.
I voluntarily agreed to read a copy of this book supplied by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own and in no way have been influenced.
October 18, 2019
When an acclaimed local potter is killed by suffocation, he is truly Molded 4 Murder.
In Glendale Arizona, Phee is a bookkeeper at Williams Investigations, a private detective firm. One day two acquaintances come in asking for Phee’s help. Someone is stealing small items at their luxurious retirement residence hotel. Tuna cans, yarn, olives, a $5 bill, and an old jar don’t sound like much but it means someone has access to their locked apartments. Phee agrees to look into the thefts. After all, she is a former police officer.
I enjoyed the characters most of all. Phee and her newish boyfriend/co-worker Marshall’s romance is moving forward nicely. You can feel the attraction. The retirees of Sun City West, including Phee’s mother, feel genuine—not generic—too. And who wouldn’t want to pal around with the enterprising Phee for a day or two?
The multitude of mysteries are intriguing too. The twists and turns in the plot allowing all to be unveiled at the conclusion are skillfully created by the author.
If you like your cozy mysteries with a touch of romance and humor, I highly recommend Molded 4 Murder. 4 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
In Glendale Arizona, Phee is a bookkeeper at Williams Investigations, a private detective firm. One day two acquaintances come in asking for Phee’s help. Someone is stealing small items at their luxurious retirement residence hotel. Tuna cans, yarn, olives, a $5 bill, and an old jar don’t sound like much but it means someone has access to their locked apartments. Phee agrees to look into the thefts. After all, she is a former police officer.
I enjoyed the characters most of all. Phee and her newish boyfriend/co-worker Marshall’s romance is moving forward nicely. You can feel the attraction. The retirees of Sun City West, including Phee’s mother, feel genuine—not generic—too. And who wouldn’t want to pal around with the enterprising Phee for a day or two?
The multitude of mysteries are intriguing too. The twists and turns in the plot allowing all to be unveiled at the conclusion are skillfully created by the author.
If you like your cozy mysteries with a touch of romance and humor, I highly recommend Molded 4 Murder. 4 stars!
Thanks to Kensington Books and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
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