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Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery #13
Hidden Treasure
Josie Prescott's discovery of a mysterious antique trunk leads to a disappearance--and murder--in the next installment of this beloved cozy series set on the rugged New Hampshire coast, Jane K. Cleland's Hidden Treasure.
Josie Prescott, owner of Prescott's Antiques & Auctions, and her new husband Ty have finally found their dream home--a Victorian beauty on the beach, known in the town of Rocky Point as "The Gingerbread House." It was recently vacated by Maudie Wilson, an aging widow, whose concerned nieces have moved her into a nearby assisted living facility. Josie befriends Maudie, who seems surprisingly sharp, considering her family's doubts about her soundness of mind.
As Josie and Ty joyfully begin renovations on The Gingerbread House, the nieces report that Maudie, in her forgetfulness, may have left behind an old trunk, which she's desperate to get back. Sure enough, Josie finds the trunk inside a hidden dumbwaiter, and within it a jewel-encrusted box holding a sculpture of a cat. Josie can understand the sense of urgency about getting the objects back--they look valuable, and not just in the sentimental sense.
But when Josie goes to return the box to Maudie, the woman has vanished. And on the floor of her empty apartment lies the body of someone bludgeoned to death. Sick with worry for Maudie's safety, Josie begins to piece together the clues to the murder. Everyone around her seems to want to pitch in, from Maudie's family, to the receptionist at the facility, to the young couple helping Josie with her renovations. But when the killer may be lurking nearby, Josie can't let her guard down around anyone.
Josie Prescott, owner of Prescott's Antiques & Auctions, and her new husband Ty have finally found their dream home--a Victorian beauty on the beach, known in the town of Rocky Point as "The Gingerbread House." It was recently vacated by Maudie Wilson, an aging widow, whose concerned nieces have moved her into a nearby assisted living facility. Josie befriends Maudie, who seems surprisingly sharp, considering her family's doubts about her soundness of mind.
As Josie and Ty joyfully begin renovations on The Gingerbread House, the nieces report that Maudie, in her forgetfulness, may have left behind an old trunk, which she's desperate to get back. Sure enough, Josie finds the trunk inside a hidden dumbwaiter, and within it a jewel-encrusted box holding a sculpture of a cat. Josie can understand the sense of urgency about getting the objects back--they look valuable, and not just in the sentimental sense.
But when Josie goes to return the box to Maudie, the woman has vanished. And on the floor of her empty apartment lies the body of someone bludgeoned to death. Sick with worry for Maudie's safety, Josie begins to piece together the clues to the murder. Everyone around her seems to want to pitch in, from Maudie's family, to the receptionist at the facility, to the young couple helping Josie with her renovations. But when the killer may be lurking nearby, Josie can't let her guard down around anyone.
288 pages, Hardcover
First published December 8, 2020
70 people are currently reading
1986 people want to read
About the author
Jane K. Cleland
32 books352 followersJane K. Cleland writes the multiple award-winning and bestselling Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries. Her short stories are published by Alfred Hitchcock's Mystery Magazine. She’s also written the bestselling and Agatha Award-winning how-to books,
Mastering Plot Twists
and
Mastering Suspense, Structure & Plot
, both from Writer’s Digest Books.
Her latest release is the craft of writing book, Beat the Bots: A Writer's Guide to Surviving and Thriving in the Age of AI from Regalo Press.
In addition, Jane presents a free monthly webinar series on the craft of writing as well as the Mystery Mastermind series—her small-group virtual writing workshops. She is also a Contributing Editor for Writer’s Digest Magazine, chairs the Wolfe Pack’s Black Orchid Novella Award, in partnership with AHMM, and is the Vice President of the Florida chapter of Mystery Writers of America.
Jane has an MFA (in professional and creative writing) and an MBA (in marketing and management). Jane is a lecturer at Lehman College where she is also the director of the Program for Professional Communications, and a frequent workshop facilitator and guest author at writing conferences and university programs.
For more on Jane, visit www.janecleland.com.
Her latest release is the craft of writing book, Beat the Bots: A Writer's Guide to Surviving and Thriving in the Age of AI from Regalo Press.
In addition, Jane presents a free monthly webinar series on the craft of writing as well as the Mystery Mastermind series—her small-group virtual writing workshops. She is also a Contributing Editor for Writer’s Digest Magazine, chairs the Wolfe Pack’s Black Orchid Novella Award, in partnership with AHMM, and is the Vice President of the Florida chapter of Mystery Writers of America.
Jane has an MFA (in professional and creative writing) and an MBA (in marketing and management). Jane is a lecturer at Lehman College where she is also the director of the Program for Professional Communications, and a frequent workshop facilitator and guest author at writing conferences and university programs.
For more on Jane, visit www.janecleland.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
December 17, 2020
Out of 13 books in this series, I have only missed one. That should tell you something about my thoughts. Every book highlights some antique piece or type. As the series progresses, you see Josie Prescott grow from a young whistleblower basically exiled from the NYC big leagues to an established, honorable and successful business owner. The mysteries are always solid and the characters realistic. In this one Josie becomes involved as the previous owner of her new home has accidentally left something of value hidden there. Family machinations and dishonesty prevail. Even after the mystery was solved, the book continues wrapping up some storylines for friends and family. I enjoyed the fact that the author more to say. Enjoyable series even for a person who really doesn't care about antiques, like me.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
May 9, 2020
This book was the first book I read in the series. I think reading previous installments would have clarified a lot for me while reading. I enjoy mysteries and could not help but feel like Josie was just a busy body but after doing research on the series I realized that she did this frequently. I did not personally connect with any of the characters in this book but it was a good read. There were points that were very descriptive and it helped me to paint a better picture of the scene the author was trying to convey. I would read another installment of the series. I would most likely start from the beginning to help frame the following novels.
December 26, 2020
Review to follow
December 29, 2020
First I want to say what a fantastic job the author did making this a stand alone. I was about 10% into the book when I had to look something up on Goodreads and discovered that it's the thirteenth book in the series. I knew it wasn't the first book but thought it was only a few into the series. Not thirteen! And she did it without any info dumps! Kudos, Ms. Cleland.
The book begins with Josie and her husband Ty preparing to renovate the old house they just bought. They are interrupted by the sister of the house's former owner, wondering if they had found a chest that may have been left behind. From there, many mysteries sprout and multiply. It was overwhelming at times and I didn't buy into the facts behind Maudie's disappearance. But the various mysteries kept me both entertained and guessing. I was pleased that I figured out some, though not all. Josie is a typical cozy mystery heroine in that she sticks her noise everywhere and literally cannot mind her own business. Though she does have some connection considering she found the trunk and knows antiques. I really enjoyed the antique aspect even though I'm not big on antiques. It was interesting seeing her evaluate antiques, run her antiques house, and work on her TV show about antiques. Add in a friend going through a crisis and the various mysteries she was helping solve and the new house, and she was a very busy woman!
"Hidden Treasure" was a fun and engaging story. It strained credulity at times, especially how much info Josie shared with the reporter, but characters and details were well-developed and the story kept me reading. I had to know what would happen next. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mysteries and identifying the villains. While Josie was occasionally over the top nosy, she had a knack for questioning people and figuring out clues. I loved her devotion to her family and friends and her expertise at her work. I want to read more in the series.
The book begins with Josie and her husband Ty preparing to renovate the old house they just bought. They are interrupted by the sister of the house's former owner, wondering if they had found a chest that may have been left behind. From there, many mysteries sprout and multiply. It was overwhelming at times and I didn't buy into the facts behind Maudie's disappearance. But the various mysteries kept me both entertained and guessing. I was pleased that I figured out some, though not all. Josie is a typical cozy mystery heroine in that she sticks her noise everywhere and literally cannot mind her own business. Though she does have some connection considering she found the trunk and knows antiques. I really enjoyed the antique aspect even though I'm not big on antiques. It was interesting seeing her evaluate antiques, run her antiques house, and work on her TV show about antiques. Add in a friend going through a crisis and the various mysteries she was helping solve and the new house, and she was a very busy woman!
"Hidden Treasure" was a fun and engaging story. It strained credulity at times, especially how much info Josie shared with the reporter, but characters and details were well-developed and the story kept me reading. I had to know what would happen next. I enjoyed trying to figure out the mysteries and identifying the villains. While Josie was occasionally over the top nosy, she had a knack for questioning people and figuring out clues. I loved her devotion to her family and friends and her expertise at her work. I want to read more in the series.
May 26, 2021
This is my first book to read in the Josie Prescott series by author Jane K. Cleland. I had no problem reading it as a stand alone. I do want to read the previous books in the series.
Hidden Treasures is a slow paced mystery that ambles along keeping you intrigued to keep reading. Very different type of mystery for me to read and I did enjoy the story line. There is a lot of information about the antique business.
If you are in the mood for a cozy mystery, this is the book to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
Hidden Treasures is a slow paced mystery that ambles along keeping you intrigued to keep reading. Very different type of mystery for me to read and I did enjoy the story line. There is a lot of information about the antique business.
If you are in the mood for a cozy mystery, this is the book to read.
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 27, 2020
This cozy didn't seem to move. Not much investigating and lack of character depth also made this a full read for me. The ending was rather odd as far as Maudy's relationship with Josie.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc
May 19, 2020
I was very happy to gain access to an ARC copy of Hidden Treasure by Jane K. Cleland through NetGalley. This is the first book of the series following Josie Prescott that I have read and really enjoyed it.
Josie has a lot on her plate, from running a successful antiques business, to a new show and moving into a new house, she finds herself caught in the middle of a mystery turned murder-mystery upon the discovery of some potentially priceless antiques left behind from the previous owner, Maudie. The disappearance of the priceless artifacts stirs quite a bit of noise and gossip in town.
Cleland and Josie’s shared attention to detail really make this a smooth read. The book offered a lot of description so that I could easily picture all the happenings in my mind but not so much detail that it ever became overwhelming. I really liked that I wasn’t lost in the story because I haven’t read any books in the series before and all the characters were well-described with clear relations to each other.
While reading this, part of me really kept saying “Josie stay out of it”. Especially when her involvement begins to rub a few people the wrong way. I grew to appreciate Josie’s need to find out all that she can as it becomes clear that Josie really is the one driving the murder and theft investigation. Josie’s kind heart and giving nature make her a loveable character.
If you’re into a cozy mystery and easy read, definitely check this one out!
Josie has a lot on her plate, from running a successful antiques business, to a new show and moving into a new house, she finds herself caught in the middle of a mystery turned murder-mystery upon the discovery of some potentially priceless antiques left behind from the previous owner, Maudie. The disappearance of the priceless artifacts stirs quite a bit of noise and gossip in town.
Cleland and Josie’s shared attention to detail really make this a smooth read. The book offered a lot of description so that I could easily picture all the happenings in my mind but not so much detail that it ever became overwhelming. I really liked that I wasn’t lost in the story because I haven’t read any books in the series before and all the characters were well-described with clear relations to each other.
While reading this, part of me really kept saying “Josie stay out of it”. Especially when her involvement begins to rub a few people the wrong way. I grew to appreciate Josie’s need to find out all that she can as it becomes clear that Josie really is the one driving the murder and theft investigation. Josie’s kind heart and giving nature make her a loveable character.
If you’re into a cozy mystery and easy read, definitely check this one out!
December 9, 2020
This is a charming series that blends antiques and history with fun sleuthing. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own. This is the 13th book in this series . This book can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend the entire series.
In this next in series our protagnist Josie has closed on her gingerbread house when she gets a frantic call from the owners niece that the owner misplaced a valuable antique trunk. Josie finds the trunk and when she opens it to document the contents she finds a mysterious cat statue that appears to be Egyptian and expensive. When she returns the statue she is suspicious of the nieces of the owner who are pushing her to return the statue and not kind to their Aunt. One of the nieces then calls her back to pick up the statue to sell for them. Josie finds the niece dead and is determined to find out why she was murdered and what connection her murder had to this statue.
This is a well crafted fun mystery that kept me guessing to conclusion. I like the charcters and the fast paced writing of this series. The antique information is fun to read about and interesting. I look forward to the next in series.
In this next in series our protagnist Josie has closed on her gingerbread house when she gets a frantic call from the owners niece that the owner misplaced a valuable antique trunk. Josie finds the trunk and when she opens it to document the contents she finds a mysterious cat statue that appears to be Egyptian and expensive. When she returns the statue she is suspicious of the nieces of the owner who are pushing her to return the statue and not kind to their Aunt. One of the nieces then calls her back to pick up the statue to sell for them. Josie finds the niece dead and is determined to find out why she was murdered and what connection her murder had to this statue.
This is a well crafted fun mystery that kept me guessing to conclusion. I like the charcters and the fast paced writing of this series. The antique information is fun to read about and interesting. I look forward to the next in series.
December 15, 2021
I loved Hidden Treasures! What a fantastic addition to the Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery series. I enjoyed that it centered on an older woman who has quite the zest for life despite her age—and I like how Josie encourages and helps her. The novel’s fast-paced with lots of twists, including one particularly surprising and fun detail near the end. As with all the Josie Prescott books, there was a host of fun new characters and subplots, along with the familiar cast. Highly recommended to lovers of cozy as well as traditional mysteries. Hidden Treasure can be read as a standalone novel.
May 17, 2020
This is the 13th book in the Josie Prescott Antiques mystery series and the first one in this series that I've read. I found the book to be a gentle cozy mystery, perfect to escape the stress of life. Despite not having read any of the others in the series, I felt that the characters were introduced in such a way that I didn't need to read the previous books (though because of my enjoyment of this one I will be going back to read the others). I loved the descriptions of the New Hampshire shore and the details about antiques and the antique business. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
December 25, 2021
The story centers around the theft of a cat statue and its presentation box. There is a murder but everything is tied to the theft. Josie get involved because the house she and Ty, her husband, have bought contains the trunk that holds the box with the cat statue. Josie is also trying to help her friend, Zoe, adjust to the fact that her daughter has joined the Marines. The book was a quick easy read.
May 14, 2020
I read this book courtesy of NetGalley. This long series continues to follow the never-aging Josie Prescott, now married, as she deals in antiques, hosts a TV show, assists friends, does good deeds, renovates her new home and solves mysteries. Her best friend Zoe is upset because her daughter Emma has joined the Marines and Josie works to reassure, redirect, and reward them both. A new friend, Maudie, is the focus of much of Josie's interest, not only as the owner of a possibly ancient cat and presentation box, but also because of a murder. Through the book Josie gets attacked, but bounces back and still manages to accomplish everything she set out to do. Fans of the series will enjoy the book and the antiques lessons.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2020
Now that I've read and totally enjoyed the latest book in this series. I have to go back and start from book one and read them all in order. This is a must read series.
May 1, 2020
Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of HIDDEN TREASURE (Book 13 of the Josie Prescott Antiques Mysteries) by Jane K. Cleland in exchange for an honest review. This book is set about five years after Book 12, Antique Blues. Josie’s been busy with a successful television series, her antiques and appraisal business, and her marriage. Now, Josie and her husband have found and purchased their dream home, which is known locally as “The Gingerbread House.” Immediately after the sale is final, the previous owner’s “concerned” nieces begin to demand Josie return a trunk and contents that their forgetful aunt left behind. Through this set of interactions, Josie eventually meets Maudie Wilson (prior owner of The Gingerbread House and surprisingly sharp aunt to the concerned nieces) and forms an instant friendship. The nieces seem upset that Josie would return the valuable belonging to its owner rather than turn it over to them, so they could handle it for their aunt. The next time Josie is contacted about the box, Maudie has vanished, the valuables are missing, and someone lies brutally murdered on Maudie’s apartment floor. Josie soon finds herself tracking Maudie, the items, and a killer.
I liked this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this book to fans of the series, to fans of Jane K. Cleland, and to fans of cozy mysteries featuring murder, antiques, antique appraisals, friendships, out of control reporters, and police consulting.
I liked this book and enjoy the series. I recommend this book to fans of the series, to fans of Jane K. Cleland, and to fans of cozy mysteries featuring murder, antiques, antique appraisals, friendships, out of control reporters, and police consulting.
May 4, 2020
This series had not been on my radar, so when I received the opportunity to obtain an egalley of Hidden Treasure from Netgalley, I was delighted to discover the Josie Prescott Antique Mysteries. This entry revolves around the theft a potentially priceless Egyptian cat sculpture that provokes a murder and the disappearance of cat's owner, Miss Maudie, whose relatives have their own designs on the sculpture.
My curiosity about the series led me to purchase the first Josie Prescott before reading this one. I was happy to find Josie to be intelligent and resourceful, the mystery well developed and well written. I appreciate series that respect the reader's intelligence while allowing for an empathetic connection with the main character. This series fulfills those requirements and provides a fascinating education about the antique business, which I previously knew nothing about.
I like Josie and the supporting characters in her universe. I look forward to catching up on the series titles that I have missed in between their debut and this latest book.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
My curiosity about the series led me to purchase the first Josie Prescott before reading this one. I was happy to find Josie to be intelligent and resourceful, the mystery well developed and well written. I appreciate series that respect the reader's intelligence while allowing for an empathetic connection with the main character. This series fulfills those requirements and provides a fascinating education about the antique business, which I previously knew nothing about.
I like Josie and the supporting characters in her universe. I look forward to catching up on the series titles that I have missed in between their debut and this latest book.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
April 27, 2020
288 pages
4 stars
Josie Prescott and her husband Ty have just purchased a new home. It's a grand old place and they fell in love with it. Soon, Josie is contacted by the two nieces of the former owner. The elderly woman has misplaced and antique trunk and its contents.
Josie agrees to look for it and begins to search the house. She finds the trunk in an old dumbwaiter. When Josie meets the owner Maudie doesn't at all seem like the pre-dementia patient that the nieces led her to believe. Maudie and Josie hit it off and spend time together. Josie offers to appraise the trunk and its beguiling Egyptian-appearing cat and presentation box, but offers some other appraisers to Maudie as well.
So begins an intricate and fast-paced mystery complete with murder, lies, deception and enjoyable characters.
This is a delightful cozy mystery. The plotting and writing are very well done. The characters are certainly interesting. I liked Josie, Tom, Zoe, Ellis and the rest of the gang. They were genuine and likable. I especially liked Maudie and I have a secret hope that she will appear in future episodes of Josie's adventures. Ms. Cleland is a master at setting a scene and pacing. I read this book straight through. I was hardly aware of time passing. More please, Ms. Cleland!
I want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for forwarding to me a copy of this very engaging book for me to read, enjoy and review.
4 stars
Josie Prescott and her husband Ty have just purchased a new home. It's a grand old place and they fell in love with it. Soon, Josie is contacted by the two nieces of the former owner. The elderly woman has misplaced and antique trunk and its contents.
Josie agrees to look for it and begins to search the house. She finds the trunk in an old dumbwaiter. When Josie meets the owner Maudie doesn't at all seem like the pre-dementia patient that the nieces led her to believe. Maudie and Josie hit it off and spend time together. Josie offers to appraise the trunk and its beguiling Egyptian-appearing cat and presentation box, but offers some other appraisers to Maudie as well.
So begins an intricate and fast-paced mystery complete with murder, lies, deception and enjoyable characters.
This is a delightful cozy mystery. The plotting and writing are very well done. The characters are certainly interesting. I liked Josie, Tom, Zoe, Ellis and the rest of the gang. They were genuine and likable. I especially liked Maudie and I have a secret hope that she will appear in future episodes of Josie's adventures. Ms. Cleland is a master at setting a scene and pacing. I read this book straight through. I was hardly aware of time passing. More please, Ms. Cleland!
I want to thank NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for forwarding to me a copy of this very engaging book for me to read, enjoy and review.
April 28, 2020
Hidden Treasures by Jane K. Cleland is the latest release in a cozy mystery series featuring Josie Prescott who owns Prescott's Antiques and Auctions in Rocky Point, New Hampshire. Jodie and her new husband have just purchased a beautiful old Victorian house from elderly Maudie Wilson. Maudie, with the help of her two nieces, has relocated to a nearby assisted living facility. During the move, Maudie has misplaced an old family trunk.
After Josie finds the trunk hidden inside a dumbwaiter in the old house, she discovers a jeweled box hidden in the trunk. Inside the jeweled box is a very old and very unique statue of a cat. When Josie goes to Maudie's apartment to return the box and statute, she finds a body on the kitchen floor. Maudie is missing! What has happened to Maudie? Is she a murderer? Josie is determined to find Maudie and solve the crime.
Jane Cleland is a master of suspense. This is a mystery that you can't put down. Hidden Treasures keeps the reader intrigued as you try to solve the murder and find Maudie along with Josie. 5 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy.
After Josie finds the trunk hidden inside a dumbwaiter in the old house, she discovers a jeweled box hidden in the trunk. Inside the jeweled box is a very old and very unique statue of a cat. When Josie goes to Maudie's apartment to return the box and statute, she finds a body on the kitchen floor. Maudie is missing! What has happened to Maudie? Is she a murderer? Josie is determined to find Maudie and solve the crime.
Jane Cleland is a master of suspense. This is a mystery that you can't put down. Hidden Treasures keeps the reader intrigued as you try to solve the murder and find Maudie along with Josie. 5 stars!
I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy.
April 21, 2020
Years ago I stumbled onto Jane Cleland’s first book in the Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery series, Consigned to Death. I have been a fan ever since.
Cleland writes consistently good, well written, and well researched mysteries. I have learned so much about antiques, appraisals and artwork from this series. Over the years I have enjoyed reading about the growth of Josie’s business. I also have enjoyed her increasing circle of coworkers and friends and to see love blossom for Josie.
Hidden Treasure has the requisite mystery surrounding an antique. This time it is an Egyptian cat sculpture and presentation box which is beautifully shown on the book cover. There is also some drama with Josie’s friend and neighbor Zoe who is conflicted about her daughter’s decision to join the military. In addition, Josie is undergoing a house rehab. All these stories are brought together by Cleland’s intelligent and thoughtful writing with enough credible red herrings to make this another great installment in the series.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC
Cleland writes consistently good, well written, and well researched mysteries. I have learned so much about antiques, appraisals and artwork from this series. Over the years I have enjoyed reading about the growth of Josie’s business. I also have enjoyed her increasing circle of coworkers and friends and to see love blossom for Josie.
Hidden Treasure has the requisite mystery surrounding an antique. This time it is an Egyptian cat sculpture and presentation box which is beautifully shown on the book cover. There is also some drama with Josie’s friend and neighbor Zoe who is conflicted about her daughter’s decision to join the military. In addition, Josie is undergoing a house rehab. All these stories are brought together by Cleland’s intelligent and thoughtful writing with enough credible red herrings to make this another great installment in the series.
Thank you NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC
April 20, 2020
Hidden Treasure by Jane K. Cleland (Josie Prescott #13) 4 stars
It has been two years since "Antique Blues" Josie Prescott #12. Josie is now happily married and is a new homeowner of the Gingerbread House - a Victorian with wonderful detailing and a mystery. The former owner of the Gingerbread House, Maude Wilson, is now living in an assisted living facility. Her two nieces insist that she is getting forgetful and left a valuable trunk in the home. Josie manages to find the trunk and is intrigued by the contents. Some communications with one of the nieces result in Josie discovering her body in Maude's room. The mystery is who killed the niece. Josie is presented with multiple suspects with motives and a missing Maude.
What always keeps me coming back are the fine details about antiques and the characters themselves. I was surprised by who did it and enjoyed the book very much. I hope that it will not be another two years for the next Josie Prescott.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC.
It has been two years since "Antique Blues" Josie Prescott #12. Josie is now happily married and is a new homeowner of the Gingerbread House - a Victorian with wonderful detailing and a mystery. The former owner of the Gingerbread House, Maude Wilson, is now living in an assisted living facility. Her two nieces insist that she is getting forgetful and left a valuable trunk in the home. Josie manages to find the trunk and is intrigued by the contents. Some communications with one of the nieces result in Josie discovering her body in Maude's room. The mystery is who killed the niece. Josie is presented with multiple suspects with motives and a missing Maude.
What always keeps me coming back are the fine details about antiques and the characters themselves. I was surprised by who did it and enjoyed the book very much. I hope that it will not be another two years for the next Josie Prescott.
Thank you Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for this ARC.
May 17, 2020
Josie Prescott and her husband Ty have closed on their dream home. Little did Josie know how the purchase of the Wilson’s old family homestead would connect her to the family going forward. When Josie discovers an old trunk with some family heirlooms in it, she returns it to the seller, but finds that the woman’s nieces seem hell bent on getting their hands on it. Going to meet the seller after she is asked to sell one of the items in the chest, Josie finds one of the niece’s dead in her aunt’s room and the aunt is missing.
Feeling personally connected to the senior aunt, Josie searches for the missing woman and is attacked as she follows her instincts. Will Josie find the killer and the missing treasure, or will be buried and forgotten by the killer?
This is the first book I have read in this 13 book series and I am thrilled that I found my own hidden treasure of 12 books I can binge on in a new, to me, series! Well written and an exciting culmination on top of a solid whodunit!
Feeling personally connected to the senior aunt, Josie searches for the missing woman and is attacked as she follows her instincts. Will Josie find the killer and the missing treasure, or will be buried and forgotten by the killer?
This is the first book I have read in this 13 book series and I am thrilled that I found my own hidden treasure of 12 books I can binge on in a new, to me, series! Well written and an exciting culmination on top of a solid whodunit!
April 19, 2020
Not a bad cozy mystery. Set in a charming New Hampshire seaside town, the owner of a prosperous antiques firm does some outside sleuthing. At the center of all the action is an old travel trunk and a family heirloom, possibly valuable. Lots of lies and misrepresentation take place, but a happy ending might be possible.
There was a bit of irrelevant detail that was unnecessary and distracting to me but I kept reading and just skipped over it. I did have a problem with this intelligent character's motormouth tendencies when around her reporter friend; that's a dangerous trait when investigating murder. Overall, not my favorite genre but certainly good enough to keep me busy for several hours during a stay-at-home order.
There was a bit of irrelevant detail that was unnecessary and distracting to me but I kept reading and just skipped over it. I did have a problem with this intelligent character's motormouth tendencies when around her reporter friend; that's a dangerous trait when investigating murder. Overall, not my favorite genre but certainly good enough to keep me busy for several hours during a stay-at-home order.
April 16, 2020
This is the first I've read in this series but it was easy to gather relevant relationships and threads so I wasn't lost in any way. There is a large contingent of characters in this one and the descriptives are excellent not only of the physical but also the undercurrents. There are a couple of characters who are so untrustworthy I would have kicked them to the curb a fourth of the way in. Oh well, in general it was a good solid plot complete with twists and red herrings as well as insights into the antiques business. I loved it!
T requested and received a free ebook copy from St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
T requested and received a free ebook copy from St. Martin's Press/Minotaur Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
April 14, 2020
Engaging cozy mystery with an unusual, interesting setting and sympathetic protagonist. Plenty of suspects, many motives, and fun facts about gems and antiques in this story about the disappearance of an opulent artifact. Recommended.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 28, 2021
I generally like this series, but this one was disappointing. The pacing on this one really lagged so it was slow and tedious.
Most irritating though, was the fact that it felt like the theme of the book was: poor people can't be trusted. There's a character, Maudie, who's very wealthy yet refuses to help her family who are impoverished and struggling, and somehow the author frames Maudie as sweet and kind and loving, with no reflection on the fact that she's prepared to ... ya know... let her family become homeless because of their dire straits. Um, no. This woman is so wealthy that she considers simply giving away every single one of her possessions in order to save herself from having to return to her home which was the scene of a crime. So, she'll just give EVERYTHING she owns away -- the equivalent of lighting a big ol' pile of money on fire -- but she won't give her family some money to keep them from being homeless? Gross.
And frankly, Josie seems to have become an entitled jerk. She's super high-handed with her best friend, arranging her life for her behind her back. She's condescending to everyone around her. She acts really superior and judgmental. Someone who's struggling with the weight of a secret goes to Josie for help, and Josie takes a very judgmental "I never gossip, how dare you" attitude to it all. Why do people even like Josie if she's constantly judging them and telling them what a good person she is? I'm over it. I think this is my last Josie Prescott book. Disappointing.
Most irritating though, was the fact that it felt like the theme of the book was: poor people can't be trusted. There's a character, Maudie, who's very wealthy yet refuses to help her family who are impoverished and struggling, and somehow the author frames Maudie as sweet and kind and loving, with no reflection on the fact that she's prepared to ... ya know... let her family become homeless because of their dire straits. Um, no. This woman is so wealthy that she considers simply giving away every single one of her possessions in order to save herself from having to return to her home which was the scene of a crime. So, she'll just give EVERYTHING she owns away -- the equivalent of lighting a big ol' pile of money on fire -- but she won't give her family some money to keep them from being homeless? Gross.
And frankly, Josie seems to have become an entitled jerk. She's super high-handed with her best friend, arranging her life for her behind her back. She's condescending to everyone around her. She acts really superior and judgmental. Someone who's struggling with the weight of a secret goes to Josie for help, and Josie takes a very judgmental "I never gossip, how dare you" attitude to it all. Why do people even like Josie if she's constantly judging them and telling them what a good person she is? I'm over it. I think this is my last Josie Prescott book. Disappointing.
April 14, 2020
I have been a fan of this series from the beginning. Josie is such a strong, confident character, that I feel an immediate connection whenever I read one of her books.
I really liked Maudie, who is a very essential character in Hidden Treasure.
The storyline captured my interest, and the side story with Zoe and Emma was excellent.
Fans of this series will be lining up to grab their own copy.
I really liked Maudie, who is a very essential character in Hidden Treasure.
The storyline captured my interest, and the side story with Zoe and Emma was excellent.
Fans of this series will be lining up to grab their own copy.
December 10, 2020
Josie Prescott has her hands full with the remodeling of her newly acquired Victorian beachfront mansion in beautiful Rocky Point, New Hampshire when she discovers a hidden treasure inside - a small trunk containing a priceless Egyptian statue. When the owner of the antique disappears and her niece is found bludgeoned to death, Josie must race against time to discover the culprit, and there are lots of greedy suspects to choose from! A stellar new mystery from author Jane K. Cleland, Hidden Treasure was a joy to read. A+++
February 18, 2021
SPOILER ALERT
Josie Prescott and her husband have bought the Gingerbread House in New Hampshire. The niece of the prior owner Maudie Wilson approaches her about a trunk that Maudie had left at the house when the movers took the contents. She and Celia Atkins go through the house and don't find it. But as Josie and her contractor prepare for the renovation she finds the truck in a hidden dumbwaiter in the kitchen. It is old but not very valuable but the presentation box with the Eqyptian cat inside might be worth a great deal if the stones covering it are real and the gold and silver are pure. She refuses to give it to the nieces, Celia's sister Stacy Collins also trying to claim the truck, but she delivers it to Maudie at her new home the Belle Vista Retirement Community. The sister are trying to convince Maudie and others that she is suffering from early dementia. They each need money for different reasons, and Maudie, who has given to them generously in the past, refuses their new requests. Celia plans to take the truck and sell it.
When Maudie doesn't show up for an appointment the manager goes into her apartment and finds Celia murdered. Maudie is missing. As Josie investigates she is refused information from Maudie's travel agent and the individuals whose names she had given Maudie to get appraisals, hoping that Maudie will eventually chose Prescott's. When Josie plans to meet Police Chief Ellis Hunter at the apartment, she is attacked. The presentation box and the cat have disappeared. It appears that there are more than just the sisters interested in the artifacts. Numerous suspects are identified: Elaine Baglio, the receptionist at the community wants to go to New York to pursue and acting career, and Julie Simond, girlfriend of Tom Hill, Maudie's handyman and gardener is frustrated with the lack of ambition of Tom and wants money to further her life goals. There also the continued disappointment of Stacy who cannot get investors for her furniture business and Doug, Celia's husband has lost his job, and is in debt.
Throughout this mystery, Josie is planning for the renovation, (Looking at an appraisal for the French chandelier from the house, that turns out to be worth nearly a million euros.)dealing with the her distraught best friend Zoe whose daughter Emma has joined the Marines, and is helping the local church with a dragonfly problem. They need expensive custom screens on the windows to keep the delicate insects from getting into the church and getting hurt. She also nudges Ellis into proposing which he had been planning but couldn't decide when it was best to do. She sees that Zoe is petrified of the empty nest as well as afraid of the dangerous career she sees Emma entering. She arranges for a special proposal, marriage service on the "Proper Knot' sloop, by Capt. Ken followed by a Bimini trip. Afterward she has suggested to Ellis and Zoe that they might find satisfaction in training service dogs. She helps Maudie see that she has options, pursuing her lifelong desire to write about travel, and is in good mental health. She then plans an all out party with hundreds of participants for the leaving of Emma, to boot camp, having also sought the advice and help of Retired Lt Commander Siolberblatt of the Marines. Additionally she is also aware of the potential for TV show and special editions, which she needs to make arrangements for, using the presentation box, that includes her filming whatever she is doing in relation to finding and appraising the box and cat.
Josie's eye and intuition lead to the killer, Julie Simond, and her attacker, Lainy Baglio, who were spurred by ambition and greed as Celia had been. It is always a treat to read these well-researched tales that share detailed information about antiques and special pieces. The presentation box in this story turns out to authentic, and from BCE Egypt, and Maudie chooses to donate it to a US museum for the continued appraisal rather that keeping the priceless artifact. I am only exhausted by the many balls she has in the air and her constant involvement in every community issue that seem to fill the already busy mystery. Throughout the investigation and machinations she puts in place she is meeting with the town's pushy reporter, Wes Smith, which for me is particularly off-putting.
Josie Prescott and her husband have bought the Gingerbread House in New Hampshire. The niece of the prior owner Maudie Wilson approaches her about a trunk that Maudie had left at the house when the movers took the contents. She and Celia Atkins go through the house and don't find it. But as Josie and her contractor prepare for the renovation she finds the truck in a hidden dumbwaiter in the kitchen. It is old but not very valuable but the presentation box with the Eqyptian cat inside might be worth a great deal if the stones covering it are real and the gold and silver are pure. She refuses to give it to the nieces, Celia's sister Stacy Collins also trying to claim the truck, but she delivers it to Maudie at her new home the Belle Vista Retirement Community. The sister are trying to convince Maudie and others that she is suffering from early dementia. They each need money for different reasons, and Maudie, who has given to them generously in the past, refuses their new requests. Celia plans to take the truck and sell it.
When Maudie doesn't show up for an appointment the manager goes into her apartment and finds Celia murdered. Maudie is missing. As Josie investigates she is refused information from Maudie's travel agent and the individuals whose names she had given Maudie to get appraisals, hoping that Maudie will eventually chose Prescott's. When Josie plans to meet Police Chief Ellis Hunter at the apartment, she is attacked. The presentation box and the cat have disappeared. It appears that there are more than just the sisters interested in the artifacts. Numerous suspects are identified: Elaine Baglio, the receptionist at the community wants to go to New York to pursue and acting career, and Julie Simond, girlfriend of Tom Hill, Maudie's handyman and gardener is frustrated with the lack of ambition of Tom and wants money to further her life goals. There also the continued disappointment of Stacy who cannot get investors for her furniture business and Doug, Celia's husband has lost his job, and is in debt.
Throughout this mystery, Josie is planning for the renovation, (Looking at an appraisal for the French chandelier from the house, that turns out to be worth nearly a million euros.)dealing with the her distraught best friend Zoe whose daughter Emma has joined the Marines, and is helping the local church with a dragonfly problem. They need expensive custom screens on the windows to keep the delicate insects from getting into the church and getting hurt. She also nudges Ellis into proposing which he had been planning but couldn't decide when it was best to do. She sees that Zoe is petrified of the empty nest as well as afraid of the dangerous career she sees Emma entering. She arranges for a special proposal, marriage service on the "Proper Knot' sloop, by Capt. Ken followed by a Bimini trip. Afterward she has suggested to Ellis and Zoe that they might find satisfaction in training service dogs. She helps Maudie see that she has options, pursuing her lifelong desire to write about travel, and is in good mental health. She then plans an all out party with hundreds of participants for the leaving of Emma, to boot camp, having also sought the advice and help of Retired Lt Commander Siolberblatt of the Marines. Additionally she is also aware of the potential for TV show and special editions, which she needs to make arrangements for, using the presentation box, that includes her filming whatever she is doing in relation to finding and appraising the box and cat.
Josie's eye and intuition lead to the killer, Julie Simond, and her attacker, Lainy Baglio, who were spurred by ambition and greed as Celia had been. It is always a treat to read these well-researched tales that share detailed information about antiques and special pieces. The presentation box in this story turns out to authentic, and from BCE Egypt, and Maudie chooses to donate it to a US museum for the continued appraisal rather that keeping the priceless artifact. I am only exhausted by the many balls she has in the air and her constant involvement in every community issue that seem to fill the already busy mystery. Throughout the investigation and machinations she puts in place she is meeting with the town's pushy reporter, Wes Smith, which for me is particularly off-putting.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 5, 2024
"Flaws Can be Fatal"
No Spoilers
Aristotle said "Character is fate," but also character is motive. If you're a fan of Law & Order, you can tell the show is all formula. The writers throw up a straw man in the second scene who seems guilty as sin. But then what happens? The "perp" has an alibi. Then we go down a labyrinth with characters having valid reasons to kill, but these all turn out to be red herrings. In the end the detectives are drawn to a minor character who surprises everyone. However, pay close attention in the second scene. This "minor" character always reveals some little nuance - a look, a facial tick - that will tell the discerning viewer that he or she is the perpetrator.
In Jane K. Cleland's taught mystery, Hidden Treasure, part of the Josie Prescott series, we see that crime doesn't really originate from need or drives but out of character flaws. If we are good in life, if we are a Josie, then our world view shapes our actions. If we have a defect, we see the world as a "zero sum game."
Josie and her husband, Ty, have just purchased "The Gingerbread House" from Maudie Wilson, who is now going into assisted living. Maudie's nieces, Celia and Stacy, inform Josie that their aunt may have left behind a trunk. When Josie discovers this item, she finds it contains a jewel-studded presentation box - valuable in itself - and a humble statue of a black cat. She uses her profession of antiques appraisal to determine the even greater worth of the find.
Along the way we find the labyrinth of little inconsistencies. For instance, Cleland lets us know that the elderly Maudie can bench press 50 pounds. Hmm. Then she could lift the instrument of death. A little girl, Tammy, tells Josie she put up jam with her mother. Josie and Maudie talked about marmalade. Hmm. Rubies are some of the stones on the presentation box; and then we see Josie offering a presentation box and ruby ring to Ellis, her detective friend, to give as an engagement gift to Zoe. Hmmmmm.
But Ellis and Zoe are recurring characters, so, in the practical world of fiction, they can't be the killers. Nor can an Egyptologist who is professional until self-interest enters, and he "morphs into a pitbull." Is that enough to make him a killer? Not in Cleland's world. Is Maudie's resentment at not having pursued the life she deserved or her little game with Josie on her knowledge of travel writing? Have your doubts. We all have pecadillos, but that doesn't mean we all will take drastic action. Josie recounts a conversation with her father: "It was, he explained, completely okay to lie when answering a question no one had a right to ask." It is telling that the Egyptologist's white lies come on the heels of this memory.
This is a novel in which faults can be redeemed if one has good morals. Personal freedom is a theme, and so is self-awareness and the ability to adapt, as Josie remarks are embodied in the dragonflies that keep invading her office. When one cannot be self-aware, cannot admit the dragonfly, one has gone down the road that will turn a priceless ancient treasure into something base. The hidden treasure is really character.
I really recommend you buy this book. I like to mark up paper books with my comments, so that years later, when I pick them up again in my home library, I can reflect on my thoughts at the time I read it. And with mysteries, when I mark up the margins with my ideas, they are actually clues for me, as I play detective as I'm reading, and I, myself, am building a case.
No Spoilers
Aristotle said "Character is fate," but also character is motive. If you're a fan of Law & Order, you can tell the show is all formula. The writers throw up a straw man in the second scene who seems guilty as sin. But then what happens? The "perp" has an alibi. Then we go down a labyrinth with characters having valid reasons to kill, but these all turn out to be red herrings. In the end the detectives are drawn to a minor character who surprises everyone. However, pay close attention in the second scene. This "minor" character always reveals some little nuance - a look, a facial tick - that will tell the discerning viewer that he or she is the perpetrator.
In Jane K. Cleland's taught mystery, Hidden Treasure, part of the Josie Prescott series, we see that crime doesn't really originate from need or drives but out of character flaws. If we are good in life, if we are a Josie, then our world view shapes our actions. If we have a defect, we see the world as a "zero sum game."
Josie and her husband, Ty, have just purchased "The Gingerbread House" from Maudie Wilson, who is now going into assisted living. Maudie's nieces, Celia and Stacy, inform Josie that their aunt may have left behind a trunk. When Josie discovers this item, she finds it contains a jewel-studded presentation box - valuable in itself - and a humble statue of a black cat. She uses her profession of antiques appraisal to determine the even greater worth of the find.
Along the way we find the labyrinth of little inconsistencies. For instance, Cleland lets us know that the elderly Maudie can bench press 50 pounds. Hmm. Then she could lift the instrument of death. A little girl, Tammy, tells Josie she put up jam with her mother. Josie and Maudie talked about marmalade. Hmm. Rubies are some of the stones on the presentation box; and then we see Josie offering a presentation box and ruby ring to Ellis, her detective friend, to give as an engagement gift to Zoe. Hmmmmm.
But Ellis and Zoe are recurring characters, so, in the practical world of fiction, they can't be the killers. Nor can an Egyptologist who is professional until self-interest enters, and he "morphs into a pitbull." Is that enough to make him a killer? Not in Cleland's world. Is Maudie's resentment at not having pursued the life she deserved or her little game with Josie on her knowledge of travel writing? Have your doubts. We all have pecadillos, but that doesn't mean we all will take drastic action. Josie recounts a conversation with her father: "It was, he explained, completely okay to lie when answering a question no one had a right to ask." It is telling that the Egyptologist's white lies come on the heels of this memory.
This is a novel in which faults can be redeemed if one has good morals. Personal freedom is a theme, and so is self-awareness and the ability to adapt, as Josie remarks are embodied in the dragonflies that keep invading her office. When one cannot be self-aware, cannot admit the dragonfly, one has gone down the road that will turn a priceless ancient treasure into something base. The hidden treasure is really character.
I really recommend you buy this book. I like to mark up paper books with my comments, so that years later, when I pick them up again in my home library, I can reflect on my thoughts at the time I read it. And with mysteries, when I mark up the margins with my ideas, they are actually clues for me, as I play detective as I'm reading, and I, myself, am building a case.
February 1, 2021
HIDDEN TREASURE by Jane K. Cleland is the 13th book in the Josie Prescott Antiques Mystery series. It’s the wonderful story of Josie Prescott and her discovery of an antique trunk in the recently purchased Gingerbread House. That discover leads to a new friendship, mystery, disappearance and murder.
Josie and husband, Ty, are about to start renovation on their recently purchased home. Something they have been planning and most anxious to start. However, almost before the ink is dry on the purchase papers Josie is confronted twice, once by Celia and once by Stacy – sisters and nieces to the previous owner, Maudie Wilson – about the possibility that in their elderly aunt’s forgetfulness a trunk may have been left in the house. Although initially unable to find it, Josie later finds it in a concealed dumbwaiter and returns it to Maudie at Belle Vista, where she now resides.
From their first encounter, Josie and Maudie seem to click and can see a lasting friendship forming. When Maudie asks Josie about how to find out the value and history of the trunk and the contents to help her decide whether to keep or sell them, Josie – owner of Prescott’s Antiques & Auctions, is hoping that her company will have a shot at doing one or both. Shortly after the return on the trunk however, three things happen - Celia is found murdered, Maudie is nowhere to be found and the presentation box with the cat inside that was in the trunk is stolen. Are they all connected?
As puzzling as all this is, Josie feels that if she is patient, does her research and listens to her instincts that she can find some answers. Josie is determined to put all the pieces to this rather large and partly old puzzle together to help find her new friend, find out if the trunk and contents are indeed old and valuable and to help her friend, Ellis Hunter - the Rocky Point police chief, find out who the murderer is and trunks stolen contents.
Can she do it before the criminals strike again? Is she herself in danger? Are the murder and the thief connected? Will the presentation box and cat be found? If so, will they prove to be old and valuable?
HIDDEN TREASURE is a well-written cozy mystery that weaves you between different eras in time, spans different generations, and mixes in a couple of underlying stories that add to the reality of the whole story. While Jane K. Cleland keeps our minds working to figure out the whodunit, she also entertains us with the story of Josie and Ty’s lives as they are moving forward to renovate and begin their new lives in the Gingerbread House as well as the heartfelt story of Josie’s best friend, Zoe, having to deal with allowing her daughter, Emma, to make her own decisions, like joining the Marines. Josie herself is brought to life through her love and concern for her friends shown in her wanting to help the church and preacher, helping to bring the best friends – Zoe and Ellis – to realization that they belong together in a more permanent way and helping it to come about, and for the concern she shows for a new found friend.
Although part of a series, HIDDEN TREASURE can most definitely be read as a standalone book. This is the first book in the series for me (but definitely not the last), and I had no problems enjoying each and every page. I definitely recommend it to anyone that loves a cozy mystery, a wonderful story or just a well-written book that leaves you feeling good.
Josie and husband, Ty, are about to start renovation on their recently purchased home. Something they have been planning and most anxious to start. However, almost before the ink is dry on the purchase papers Josie is confronted twice, once by Celia and once by Stacy – sisters and nieces to the previous owner, Maudie Wilson – about the possibility that in their elderly aunt’s forgetfulness a trunk may have been left in the house. Although initially unable to find it, Josie later finds it in a concealed dumbwaiter and returns it to Maudie at Belle Vista, where she now resides.
From their first encounter, Josie and Maudie seem to click and can see a lasting friendship forming. When Maudie asks Josie about how to find out the value and history of the trunk and the contents to help her decide whether to keep or sell them, Josie – owner of Prescott’s Antiques & Auctions, is hoping that her company will have a shot at doing one or both. Shortly after the return on the trunk however, three things happen - Celia is found murdered, Maudie is nowhere to be found and the presentation box with the cat inside that was in the trunk is stolen. Are they all connected?
As puzzling as all this is, Josie feels that if she is patient, does her research and listens to her instincts that she can find some answers. Josie is determined to put all the pieces to this rather large and partly old puzzle together to help find her new friend, find out if the trunk and contents are indeed old and valuable and to help her friend, Ellis Hunter - the Rocky Point police chief, find out who the murderer is and trunks stolen contents.
Can she do it before the criminals strike again? Is she herself in danger? Are the murder and the thief connected? Will the presentation box and cat be found? If so, will they prove to be old and valuable?
HIDDEN TREASURE is a well-written cozy mystery that weaves you between different eras in time, spans different generations, and mixes in a couple of underlying stories that add to the reality of the whole story. While Jane K. Cleland keeps our minds working to figure out the whodunit, she also entertains us with the story of Josie and Ty’s lives as they are moving forward to renovate and begin their new lives in the Gingerbread House as well as the heartfelt story of Josie’s best friend, Zoe, having to deal with allowing her daughter, Emma, to make her own decisions, like joining the Marines. Josie herself is brought to life through her love and concern for her friends shown in her wanting to help the church and preacher, helping to bring the best friends – Zoe and Ellis – to realization that they belong together in a more permanent way and helping it to come about, and for the concern she shows for a new found friend.
Although part of a series, HIDDEN TREASURE can most definitely be read as a standalone book. This is the first book in the series for me (but definitely not the last), and I had no problems enjoying each and every page. I definitely recommend it to anyone that loves a cozy mystery, a wonderful story or just a well-written book that leaves you feeling good.
Read
December 15, 2020Josie Prescott, owner of Prescott’s Antiques and Auctions, has owned her new home for an hour when Celia Akins, niece of the home’s previous owner, shows up at Josie’s office. Celia insists on seeing Josie because there’s a problem. Celia tells Josie that Stacy, Celia’s sister, and Celia need Josie’s help for their Aunt Maudie. A trunk has gone missing. Josie agrees to accompany Celia and Celia’s husband Doug to the house so they can search for the missing item, even though Josie knows the trunk isn’t there. Celia and Doug’s search comes up empty.
The next day, Josie does her own walk through of her new home. In the kitchen she discovers an old dumbwaiter hidden behind a panel and in the dumbwaiter is the missing trunk. Josie informs Maudie Wilson, previous owner of the house, of the find and offers to deliver the trunk to her at the Belle Vista, an assisted living facility. Celia and Stacy had both referred to Aunt Maudie being forgetful, but the woman Josie meets and forms a bond with is anything but forgetful. By the time Josie leaves Bella Vista, she’s found a new friend in Maudie Wilson.
Maudie decides to sell the trunk and its contents, and she wants Josie to handle the sale. Josie arrives at Bella Vista to meet with Celia and Maudie to finalize the paperwork and pick up the trunk. Maudie and Celia fail to keep the appointment, and no one can find either one. Josie finally convinces an administrator to check Maudie’s apartment. Inside is Celia’s body. Someone has taken a presentation box from the trunk and Maudie is still missing.
Where is Maudie? Did the person or persons responsible for murdering Celia take Maudie and steal contents from the trunk? Josie is determined to discover what has happened to her new friend, and someone is determined to stop her. Can Josie figure out what’s happened to Maudie and the missing items before she becomes the next victim?
Recommendation
I enjoyed reading this book. The twists and turns kept me guessing as to the killer’s identity. The threads of the plot and sub-plots were slow to untangle, which kept me involved in the story until the end. I recommend this book for its vibrant characters and smart storytelling.
Copy provided by Netgalley
#Netgalley #hiddentreasure
The next day, Josie does her own walk through of her new home. In the kitchen she discovers an old dumbwaiter hidden behind a panel and in the dumbwaiter is the missing trunk. Josie informs Maudie Wilson, previous owner of the house, of the find and offers to deliver the trunk to her at the Belle Vista, an assisted living facility. Celia and Stacy had both referred to Aunt Maudie being forgetful, but the woman Josie meets and forms a bond with is anything but forgetful. By the time Josie leaves Bella Vista, she’s found a new friend in Maudie Wilson.
Maudie decides to sell the trunk and its contents, and she wants Josie to handle the sale. Josie arrives at Bella Vista to meet with Celia and Maudie to finalize the paperwork and pick up the trunk. Maudie and Celia fail to keep the appointment, and no one can find either one. Josie finally convinces an administrator to check Maudie’s apartment. Inside is Celia’s body. Someone has taken a presentation box from the trunk and Maudie is still missing.
Where is Maudie? Did the person or persons responsible for murdering Celia take Maudie and steal contents from the trunk? Josie is determined to discover what has happened to her new friend, and someone is determined to stop her. Can Josie figure out what’s happened to Maudie and the missing items before she becomes the next victim?
Recommendation
I enjoyed reading this book. The twists and turns kept me guessing as to the killer’s identity. The threads of the plot and sub-plots were slow to untangle, which kept me involved in the story until the end. I recommend this book for its vibrant characters and smart storytelling.
Copy provided by Netgalley
#Netgalley #hiddentreasure
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