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A Marjorie McClelland Mystery #2
Ghost of A Chance
In 1935, it's simply not ladylike for young women to involve themselves in macabre matters such as murder. But fiercely independent mystery writer Marjorie McClelland, a.k.a. Miss Never-Say-Die, can?t resist when another killing strikes their small Connecticut town. No one sees the poison dart hit a man riding the Ferris wheel at the church festival. Much to the annoyance ...moreIn 1935, it's simply not ladylike for young women to involve themselves in macabre matters such as murder. But fiercely independent mystery writer Marjorie McClelland, a.k.a. Miss Never-Say-Die, can?t resist when another killing strikes their small Connecticut town. No one sees the poison dart hit a man riding the Ferris wheel at the church festival. Much to the annoyance of her fianc?, police detective Robert Jameson, Marjorie finagles her way into the investigation. And soon Creighton Ashcroft, a wealthy Englishman hopelessly smitten with the beautiful writer, is helping out, too. Together, the unusual trio piece together the life of the victim who left behind two wives and a huge gambling debt. While the case unfolds, Marjorie faces another dilemma that sends her heart into a tailspin. Should she marry the reliable, if dull, police detective . . . or is she ready to risk security for passion?
312 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2007
12 people are currently reading
153 people want to read
About the author
Amy Patricia Meade
19 books210 followersAuthor of the critically acclaimed Marjorie McClelland Mysteries, the Rosie the Riveter historical mysteries, and the recent Vermont series, Amy Patricia Meade is a native of Long Island, NY, where she cut her teeth on classic films and books featuring Nancy Drew and Encyclopedia Brown.
Later in her youth, she’d come to admire the works of Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers, leading her to pursue a degree in English as well as business.
Amy currently resides in Bristol, England where she's busy adding to her Tish Tarragon and Vermont Country Living Mysteries.
When not writing, Amy enjoys travel, testing out new recipes, classic films, and, of course, reading mysteries.
Later in her youth, she’d come to admire the works of Agatha Christie and Dorothy Sayers, leading her to pursue a degree in English as well as business.
Amy currently resides in Bristol, England where she's busy adding to her Tish Tarragon and Vermont Country Living Mysteries.
When not writing, Amy enjoys travel, testing out new recipes, classic films, and, of course, reading mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
June 25, 2015
Taking a break from adapting their whirlwind sleuthing adventure into her latest novel, Marjorie and Creighton are headed to the carnival for some well deserved fun. But what begins as some much deserved time off turns into another case when a man is found murdered on the ferris wheel. Alongside her new beau Detective Jameson, Marjorie once again proves female intuition is all it takes - and maybe a little help from her friends.
Thoroughly enjoyed this second instalment in Amy Patricia Meades McClelland series. Just as the first, this is packed with twists and turns, plenty of suspects, love triangles and fun screwball type banter. Great cozy mystery, very much looking forward to reading the third.
*Thank you Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this review copy
Thoroughly enjoyed this second instalment in Amy Patricia Meades McClelland series. Just as the first, this is packed with twists and turns, plenty of suspects, love triangles and fun screwball type banter. Great cozy mystery, very much looking forward to reading the third.
*Thank you Netgalley and Beyond the Page Publishing for this review copy
July 22, 2020
An entertaining mystery rich in many of the traits of a Golden Age Mystery: exotic poisons, disguises, attitudes that women should stay in the home while women were challenging their expected roles, deaths in impossible or almost impossible situations, and red herrings and many suspects. Marjorie is a sparkling young woman full of life and ideas. She is a great protagonist. Robert and Creighton play supporting roles with just the right amount of romance that adds interest to the story without overpowering the mystery. I really enjoyed this series.
September 28, 2019
I love the "Marjorie McClelland" mystery series! I didn't guess who the murderer was until just a couple of pages before the reveal. Nice work, Ms. Meade!
(For some reason, the "Contact" feature on Ms. Meade's website is malfunctioning, or I would send the following to her directly.
Editing oversights found in the Kindle version of Ghost of a Chance:
Page 11, Yes there is / Yes, there is ; 13, Alright? / All right? ; 14, You're just in time too / You're just in time, too ; 16, creativity runs in the family I see / creativity runs in the family, I see ; 18, Oh come on / Oh, come on ; 20, What do you mean 'There isn't any' Creighton / What do you mean, 'There isn't any,' Creighton ; 20, Oh yes, very easy / Oh, yes, very easy; 22, your next word may be used / your next word MIGHT be used ; 24, Yes it is / Yes, it is ; 34, He may even call off / He MIGHT even call off ;
Page 34, don't you Mrs. Patterson? / don't you, Mrs. Patterson? ; 36, glimpsing Marjorie and Creighton his demeanor suddenly darkened / glimpsing Marjorie and Creighton, his demeanor suddenly darkened ; 39, Me too / Me, too ; 46, No sirree / No, sirree ; 48, against the hard terrazo floor / against the hard TERRAZZO floor ; 49, Oh no, we live here / Oh, no, we live here ; 52, who pass it to his secretary / who WILL pass it to his secretary ; 56, Oh well / Oh, well ; 57, No sir / No, sir ; 57, Oh yes / Oh, yes ; 59, Ha ha / Ha, ha ;
Page 62, Oh she does / Oh, she does ; 62, Oh no / Oh, no ; 65, in the Nussbaum's hotel room / in the NUSSBAUMS' hotel room ; 65, Oh good / Oh, good ; 71, Oh I don't know / Oh, I don't know ; 75, I hate you Herbert! / I hate you, Herbert! ; 77, Oh she was --- / Oh, she was --- ; 78, Oh no / Oh, no ; 86, a social visit either / a social visit, either ; 88, Oh no, dear / Oh, no, dear ; 92, No thanks / No, thanks ; 97, trying to make her leave / trying to TAKE her leave ; 102, Me too? / Me, too? ; 102, you too / you, too ;
Page 105, I didn't lie either / I didn't lie, either ; 105, Yes you did / Yes, you did ; 106,
protective of your wife aren't you / protective of your wife, aren't you ; 106, --- oh wait, I'm wrong! / --- oh, wait, I'm wrong! ; 106, Why that no-good / Why, that no-good ; 112, Oh no, and me wearing / Oh, no, and me wearing ; 112, that was a mess too / that was a mess, too ; 112, Well there's no reason / Well, there's no reason ; 113, probably best Marjorie and I / probably best THAT Marjorie and I ;
Page 113, don't you, Vanessa. / don't you, Vanessa? (interrogative sentence needs ?) ; 114, whatever may have occurred / whatever MIGHT have occurred ; 115, So you noticed it too / So you noticed it, too ; 116, about Creighton and I working / about Creighton AND ME working (Creighton and I = WE, Creighton and me = US; about US working) ; 117, You want children don't you / You want children, don't you ; 117, Oh not six / Oh, not six ; 120, An overturned ashtray as much as the fire / An overturned ashtray, as much as the fire ;
Page 122, you're in love with her aren't you? / you're in love with her, aren't you? ; 127, The mans in love with you / The man's in love with you ; 128, Why hello / Why, hello ; 129, Yes I did / Yes, I did ; 129, Yes it was / Yes, it was ; 129, I liked him too / I liked him, too ; 129, May I have some coffee please / May I have some coffee, please ; 130, answer to Creightons proposal / answer to Creighton's proposal ; 131, oh and Bing Crosby / oh, and Bing Crosby ; 132, and provide breakfast too / and provide breakfast, too ;
Page 133, Yes I did / Yes, I did ; 135, Thanks officer / Thanks, officer ; 135, Oh yeah / Oh, yeah ; 136, No this kid was funny / No, this kid was funny ; 136, he's a cool customer that one / he's a cool customer, that one ; 138, Oh no you don't / Oh, no, you don't ; 138, Oh hiya Mike / Oh, hiya, Mike ; 138, Oh yeah? / Oh, yeah? ; 142, Hey Bob / Hey, Bob ; 143, Oh yeah / Oh, yeah ; 144, Weren't you Herbert? / Weren't you, Herbert? ; 145, an interesting theory detective, but first / an interesting theory, Detective, but first ;
Page 146, No answer for that either? / No answer for that, either? ; 147, head of the table, Detective Jameson who nodded / head of the table, Detective Jameson, who nodded ; 148, have your cake and eat it too / have your cake and eat it, too ; 148, profited from the arrangement too / profited from the arrangement, too ; 149, Smart too / Smart, too ; 150, Oh yeah? / Oh, yeah? ; 150, Yeah and left his wife / Yeah, and left his wife ; 155, Ha ha / Ha, ha ; 156, I'm surprised too / I'm surprised, too ;
Page 156, Ok, but why not arrest them / OK, but why not arrest them --or-- Okay, but why not arrest them (either is acceptable, though I lean toward "okay") ; 157, Although, it pretty much exonerates / Although it pretty much exonerates (comma is not needed) ; 159, My dear, Marjorie / My dear Marjorie (comma is not needed) ; 160, Probably the other side too / Probably the other side, too ; 163, It doesn't seem fair does it? / It doesn't seem fair, does it? ; 163, Yes ma'am? / Yes, ma'am? ; 164, Yes ma'am! / Yes, ma'am! ; 164, Oh yes / Oh, yes ;
Page 165, Oh Vanessa! / Oh, Vanessa! ; 168, My dear, Marjorie / My dear Marjorie (ibid. p. 159) ; 168, No we aren't / No, we aren't ; 173, has he ever eluded to you / has he ever ALLUDED to you (allude = refer indirectly, elude = escape or avoid) ; 175, Vanessa sent Creighton and I out / Vanessa sent Creighton AND ME out (ibid. p. 116) ; 181, They closed a few months ago didn't they? / They closed a few months ago, didn't they? ; 189, Didn't stick around for long though / Didn't stick around for long, though ;
Page 189, I'm sure she's sorry too / I'm sure she's sorry, too ; 190, but the Cullen's can't even access / but the Cullens can't even access (plural, not possessive) ; 192, Yes, well I guess / Yes, well, I guess ; 194, It is isn't it? / It is, isn't it? ; 203, Why you shameless little hussy / Why, you shameless little hussy ; 205, You heard him ladies / You heard him, ladies ; 207, more than a couple words / more than a couple OF words ; 209, You're very smart then / You're very smart, then ; 213, Oh no, I wanted / Oh, no, I wanted ;
Page 214, Oh I'm sure / Oh, I'm sure ; 215, Oh yes / Oh, yes ; 217, Oh good / Oh, good ; 225, to keep Josie in lipstick, who knows. / to keep Josie in lipstick, who knows? (query requires ?) ; 228, I'm waiting see if your code / I'm waiting TO see if your code ; 231, agree that whomever coded that piece / agree that WHOEVER coded that piece ; 232, Goodbye, Mrs. Hodgkin and thanks / Goodbye, Mrs. Hodgkin, and thanks ; 249, But, you do realize / But you do realize (comma is not needed) ;
Page 250, You think you're somethin' don't ya / You think you're somethin', don't ya ; 252, You saw who killed your father didn't you / You saw who killed your father, didn't you ; 254, But, the Bible was the key / But the Bible was the key (comma is not needed) ; 255, Oh no, just to industrial espionage / Oh, no, just to industrial espionage ; 256, Oh no! / Oh, no! ; 258, Unless, Natalie poisoned herself / Unless Natalie poisoned herself (comma is not needed) ; 258, Oh yeah, yeah / Oh, yeah, yeah ;
Page 260, the situation that way could she / the situation that way, could she ; 261, I don't either / I don't, either ; 261, Umm, no Noonan, I don't think / Umm, no, Noonan, I don't think ; 261, Oh they will / Oh, they will ; 263, What is this about Miss McClelland / What is this about, Miss McClelland ; 265, Now think Bernice / Now think, Bernice ; 265, don't you Miss McClelland / don't you, Miss McClelland ; 267, he was there too / he was there, too ; 268, it's a good thing too / it's a good thing, too ; 272, Oh no / Oh, no ;
Page 275, And Stewart of course / And Stewart, of course ; 276, That's strange considering the check was cut / That's strange, considering the check was cut ; 276, Industrial espionage perhaps / Industrial espionage, perhaps ; 278, You said that you 'marched straight into your doctor's office.' / You said that you 'WALKED straight into your doctor's office.' (quote from page 121) ; 279, don't you dear? / don't you, dear? ; 286, Yes, yes she is / Yes, yes, she is ;
Page 287, He may never have come to Boston / He MIGHT never have come to Boston ; 289, Oh yes, I even triple checked / Oh, yes, I even triple checked ; 290, Eventually you'll see it too / Eventually, you'll see it, too ; 294, having dinner with your mother and I tomorrow night / having dinner with your mother AND ME tomorrow night (your mother and I = WE, your mother and me = US; having dinner with US) ; 295, Oh yes, tomorrow night / Oh, yes, tomorrow night ;
Page 295, Oh I know you're not sure about going out either / Oh, I know you're not sure about going out, either ; 296, what do you suggest then? / what do you suggest, then? ; 297, He'll be hungry I expect / He'll be hungry, I expect ; 297, Oh no. / Oh, no. ; 301, Even if I had stayed I wouldn't have / Even if I had stayed, I wouldn't have ; 301, all the other things too / all the other things, too ; 302, Oh no! / Oh, no! ; 303, Although, why I should be so nice / Although why I should be so nice (omit comma) ; 304, Yes you do / Yes, you do .)
(For some reason, the "Contact" feature on Ms. Meade's website is malfunctioning, or I would send the following to her directly.
Editing oversights found in the Kindle version of Ghost of a Chance:
Page 11, Yes there is / Yes, there is ; 13, Alright? / All right? ; 14, You're just in time too / You're just in time, too ; 16, creativity runs in the family I see / creativity runs in the family, I see ; 18, Oh come on / Oh, come on ; 20, What do you mean 'There isn't any' Creighton / What do you mean, 'There isn't any,' Creighton ; 20, Oh yes, very easy / Oh, yes, very easy; 22, your next word may be used / your next word MIGHT be used ; 24, Yes it is / Yes, it is ; 34, He may even call off / He MIGHT even call off ;
Page 34, don't you Mrs. Patterson? / don't you, Mrs. Patterson? ; 36, glimpsing Marjorie and Creighton his demeanor suddenly darkened / glimpsing Marjorie and Creighton, his demeanor suddenly darkened ; 39, Me too / Me, too ; 46, No sirree / No, sirree ; 48, against the hard terrazo floor / against the hard TERRAZZO floor ; 49, Oh no, we live here / Oh, no, we live here ; 52, who pass it to his secretary / who WILL pass it to his secretary ; 56, Oh well / Oh, well ; 57, No sir / No, sir ; 57, Oh yes / Oh, yes ; 59, Ha ha / Ha, ha ;
Page 62, Oh she does / Oh, she does ; 62, Oh no / Oh, no ; 65, in the Nussbaum's hotel room / in the NUSSBAUMS' hotel room ; 65, Oh good / Oh, good ; 71, Oh I don't know / Oh, I don't know ; 75, I hate you Herbert! / I hate you, Herbert! ; 77, Oh she was --- / Oh, she was --- ; 78, Oh no / Oh, no ; 86, a social visit either / a social visit, either ; 88, Oh no, dear / Oh, no, dear ; 92, No thanks / No, thanks ; 97, trying to make her leave / trying to TAKE her leave ; 102, Me too? / Me, too? ; 102, you too / you, too ;
Page 105, I didn't lie either / I didn't lie, either ; 105, Yes you did / Yes, you did ; 106,
protective of your wife aren't you / protective of your wife, aren't you ; 106, --- oh wait, I'm wrong! / --- oh, wait, I'm wrong! ; 106, Why that no-good / Why, that no-good ; 112, Oh no, and me wearing / Oh, no, and me wearing ; 112, that was a mess too / that was a mess, too ; 112, Well there's no reason / Well, there's no reason ; 113, probably best Marjorie and I / probably best THAT Marjorie and I ;
Page 113, don't you, Vanessa. / don't you, Vanessa? (interrogative sentence needs ?) ; 114, whatever may have occurred / whatever MIGHT have occurred ; 115, So you noticed it too / So you noticed it, too ; 116, about Creighton and I working / about Creighton AND ME working (Creighton and I = WE, Creighton and me = US; about US working) ; 117, You want children don't you / You want children, don't you ; 117, Oh not six / Oh, not six ; 120, An overturned ashtray as much as the fire / An overturned ashtray, as much as the fire ;
Page 122, you're in love with her aren't you? / you're in love with her, aren't you? ; 127, The mans in love with you / The man's in love with you ; 128, Why hello / Why, hello ; 129, Yes I did / Yes, I did ; 129, Yes it was / Yes, it was ; 129, I liked him too / I liked him, too ; 129, May I have some coffee please / May I have some coffee, please ; 130, answer to Creightons proposal / answer to Creighton's proposal ; 131, oh and Bing Crosby / oh, and Bing Crosby ; 132, and provide breakfast too / and provide breakfast, too ;
Page 133, Yes I did / Yes, I did ; 135, Thanks officer / Thanks, officer ; 135, Oh yeah / Oh, yeah ; 136, No this kid was funny / No, this kid was funny ; 136, he's a cool customer that one / he's a cool customer, that one ; 138, Oh no you don't / Oh, no, you don't ; 138, Oh hiya Mike / Oh, hiya, Mike ; 138, Oh yeah? / Oh, yeah? ; 142, Hey Bob / Hey, Bob ; 143, Oh yeah / Oh, yeah ; 144, Weren't you Herbert? / Weren't you, Herbert? ; 145, an interesting theory detective, but first / an interesting theory, Detective, but first ;
Page 146, No answer for that either? / No answer for that, either? ; 147, head of the table, Detective Jameson who nodded / head of the table, Detective Jameson, who nodded ; 148, have your cake and eat it too / have your cake and eat it, too ; 148, profited from the arrangement too / profited from the arrangement, too ; 149, Smart too / Smart, too ; 150, Oh yeah? / Oh, yeah? ; 150, Yeah and left his wife / Yeah, and left his wife ; 155, Ha ha / Ha, ha ; 156, I'm surprised too / I'm surprised, too ;
Page 156, Ok, but why not arrest them / OK, but why not arrest them --or-- Okay, but why not arrest them (either is acceptable, though I lean toward "okay") ; 157, Although, it pretty much exonerates / Although it pretty much exonerates (comma is not needed) ; 159, My dear, Marjorie / My dear Marjorie (comma is not needed) ; 160, Probably the other side too / Probably the other side, too ; 163, It doesn't seem fair does it? / It doesn't seem fair, does it? ; 163, Yes ma'am? / Yes, ma'am? ; 164, Yes ma'am! / Yes, ma'am! ; 164, Oh yes / Oh, yes ;
Page 165, Oh Vanessa! / Oh, Vanessa! ; 168, My dear, Marjorie / My dear Marjorie (ibid. p. 159) ; 168, No we aren't / No, we aren't ; 173, has he ever eluded to you / has he ever ALLUDED to you (allude = refer indirectly, elude = escape or avoid) ; 175, Vanessa sent Creighton and I out / Vanessa sent Creighton AND ME out (ibid. p. 116) ; 181, They closed a few months ago didn't they? / They closed a few months ago, didn't they? ; 189, Didn't stick around for long though / Didn't stick around for long, though ;
Page 189, I'm sure she's sorry too / I'm sure she's sorry, too ; 190, but the Cullen's can't even access / but the Cullens can't even access (plural, not possessive) ; 192, Yes, well I guess / Yes, well, I guess ; 194, It is isn't it? / It is, isn't it? ; 203, Why you shameless little hussy / Why, you shameless little hussy ; 205, You heard him ladies / You heard him, ladies ; 207, more than a couple words / more than a couple OF words ; 209, You're very smart then / You're very smart, then ; 213, Oh no, I wanted / Oh, no, I wanted ;
Page 214, Oh I'm sure / Oh, I'm sure ; 215, Oh yes / Oh, yes ; 217, Oh good / Oh, good ; 225, to keep Josie in lipstick, who knows. / to keep Josie in lipstick, who knows? (query requires ?) ; 228, I'm waiting see if your code / I'm waiting TO see if your code ; 231, agree that whomever coded that piece / agree that WHOEVER coded that piece ; 232, Goodbye, Mrs. Hodgkin and thanks / Goodbye, Mrs. Hodgkin, and thanks ; 249, But, you do realize / But you do realize (comma is not needed) ;
Page 250, You think you're somethin' don't ya / You think you're somethin', don't ya ; 252, You saw who killed your father didn't you / You saw who killed your father, didn't you ; 254, But, the Bible was the key / But the Bible was the key (comma is not needed) ; 255, Oh no, just to industrial espionage / Oh, no, just to industrial espionage ; 256, Oh no! / Oh, no! ; 258, Unless, Natalie poisoned herself / Unless Natalie poisoned herself (comma is not needed) ; 258, Oh yeah, yeah / Oh, yeah, yeah ;
Page 260, the situation that way could she / the situation that way, could she ; 261, I don't either / I don't, either ; 261, Umm, no Noonan, I don't think / Umm, no, Noonan, I don't think ; 261, Oh they will / Oh, they will ; 263, What is this about Miss McClelland / What is this about, Miss McClelland ; 265, Now think Bernice / Now think, Bernice ; 265, don't you Miss McClelland / don't you, Miss McClelland ; 267, he was there too / he was there, too ; 268, it's a good thing too / it's a good thing, too ; 272, Oh no / Oh, no ;
Page 275, And Stewart of course / And Stewart, of course ; 276, That's strange considering the check was cut / That's strange, considering the check was cut ; 276, Industrial espionage perhaps / Industrial espionage, perhaps ; 278, You said that you 'marched straight into your doctor's office.' / You said that you 'WALKED straight into your doctor's office.' (quote from page 121) ; 279, don't you dear? / don't you, dear? ; 286, Yes, yes she is / Yes, yes, she is ;
Page 287, He may never have come to Boston / He MIGHT never have come to Boston ; 289, Oh yes, I even triple checked / Oh, yes, I even triple checked ; 290, Eventually you'll see it too / Eventually, you'll see it, too ; 294, having dinner with your mother and I tomorrow night / having dinner with your mother AND ME tomorrow night (your mother and I = WE, your mother and me = US; having dinner with US) ; 295, Oh yes, tomorrow night / Oh, yes, tomorrow night ;
Page 295, Oh I know you're not sure about going out either / Oh, I know you're not sure about going out, either ; 296, what do you suggest then? / what do you suggest, then? ; 297, He'll be hungry I expect / He'll be hungry, I expect ; 297, Oh no. / Oh, no. ; 301, Even if I had stayed I wouldn't have / Even if I had stayed, I wouldn't have ; 301, all the other things too / all the other things, too ; 302, Oh no! / Oh, no! ; 303, Although, why I should be so nice / Although why I should be so nice (omit comma) ; 304, Yes you do / Yes, you do .)
May 11, 2010
Only a short time has passed since amateur sleuths Marjorie and Creighton closed their first “case” – a mystery surrounding a long-buried murder that was uncovered at Creighton’s newly-purchased home. Marjorie is hard at work turning their crime-solving caper into a true-crime novel while furthering a romantic relationship with Robert, the handsome local detective who wishes she was just a bit more conventional. Meanwhile, Creighton is still hopelessly in love with Marjorie and determined to win her affections, even though she views him as nothing more than a friend (and an often annoying one at that). At the annual carnival, a prime opportunity for Marjorie and Creighton to spend time together drops in their laps when a man begins a Ferris wheel ride very much alive and ends it quite dead. Before Creighton and Marjorie realize it, they find themselves caught up in a case involving bigamy, hidden identities, and industrial espionage. To top it off, much to Marjorie’s chagrin, Creighton may just be ready to move on when the case brings him into contact with an old flame. Marjorie finds herself investigating her own feelings as much as the murder, and the clock is ticking on her chance of finding the killer and making a very important decision about her future before it’s too late.
The first Marjorie mystery, Million Dollar Baby, was a delightful surprise all around, though a tad on the longish side. Ghost of a Chance takes everything that worked in the first book and improves on it. The characters are quirkier and more richly developed, the story is plotted with greater tightness and precision, and the pacing is more focused and keeps events flowing at a brisk pace. Meade peppers the storyline of Ghost of a Chance with enough red herrings to keep you guessing, giving the mystery several rich layers that are a great deal of fun to watch unfold on the page. I also love the 1930s setting. Meade mixes the small-town feel of a mystery show such as Murder, She Wrote and endows it with enough period charm to bring the Depression-era US to vivid life. But more than setting details, Meade anchors her characters in the time period. Meade crafts her characters with a cinematic touch, and for classic movie lovers it’s impossible not to imagine Marjorie’s adventures unfolding in black and white like the classic screwball comedies of the time period.
I didn’t think it would be possible to enjoy Creighton and Marjorie’s developing relationship more than I did during their introduction in Million Dollar Baby, but I’m happy to say Meade has outdone herself. More than ever, I can so easily visualize Myrna Loy and William Powell, of the Thin Man movie fame, bringing Creighton and Marjorie to life on the silver screen. Like their Old Hollywood counterparts Nick and Nora, it is so much fun watching Creighton and Marjorie needle and poke at each other, because you know their “fights” are rooted in affection and mutual attraction. Meade’s biggest strength is her characters – they are funny and memorable, very real and quirky people that you can’t help but fall in love with. With a stronger, more tightly plotted mystery, engaging characters, rapid-fire dialogue and loads of humor, Ghost of a Chance is a winner. I can’t wait to see what adventures Marjorie and Creighton encounter next!
The first Marjorie mystery, Million Dollar Baby, was a delightful surprise all around, though a tad on the longish side. Ghost of a Chance takes everything that worked in the first book and improves on it. The characters are quirkier and more richly developed, the story is plotted with greater tightness and precision, and the pacing is more focused and keeps events flowing at a brisk pace. Meade peppers the storyline of Ghost of a Chance with enough red herrings to keep you guessing, giving the mystery several rich layers that are a great deal of fun to watch unfold on the page. I also love the 1930s setting. Meade mixes the small-town feel of a mystery show such as Murder, She Wrote and endows it with enough period charm to bring the Depression-era US to vivid life. But more than setting details, Meade anchors her characters in the time period. Meade crafts her characters with a cinematic touch, and for classic movie lovers it’s impossible not to imagine Marjorie’s adventures unfolding in black and white like the classic screwball comedies of the time period.
I didn’t think it would be possible to enjoy Creighton and Marjorie’s developing relationship more than I did during their introduction in Million Dollar Baby, but I’m happy to say Meade has outdone herself. More than ever, I can so easily visualize Myrna Loy and William Powell, of the Thin Man movie fame, bringing Creighton and Marjorie to life on the silver screen. Like their Old Hollywood counterparts Nick and Nora, it is so much fun watching Creighton and Marjorie needle and poke at each other, because you know their “fights” are rooted in affection and mutual attraction. Meade’s biggest strength is her characters – they are funny and memorable, very real and quirky people that you can’t help but fall in love with. With a stronger, more tightly plotted mystery, engaging characters, rapid-fire dialogue and loads of humor, Ghost of a Chance is a winner. I can’t wait to see what adventures Marjorie and Creighton encounter next!
August 27, 2010
The thing I liked best about the late 30's-early 40's movies was the wonderfully strong female characters with their snappy dialog...enter this series.
We got to meet the main characters in "Million Dollar Baby" and this book gives us further insight into their world via murder mysteries. There is also a darn good romance that keeps in time with the period of the post-stock crash of '29.
This series is a treat to read.
We got to meet the main characters in "Million Dollar Baby" and this book gives us further insight into their world via murder mysteries. There is also a darn good romance that keeps in time with the period of the post-stock crash of '29.
This series is a treat to read.
May 30, 2021
I was originally given a copy from Netgalley in 2015, discovered in 2021 that I hadn't read or reviewed the book, and, in fact, forgotten to download the book. Feeling guilty, I found a copy at my local library, so this review is based on the published version.
My first thought when I started was that it felt like a mystery written about the time the story takes place. After that, the story sort of lost any detail that made it seem set in the 30's. It also had way more romance than any of my mother's mysteries (I first got into mysteries when I was 9 by reading her Agatha Christie and Rex Stout books) that were written in the 30's and 40's. It's not detailed or salacious, but there was none that I recall from my mother's books. Neither really put me off.
The author did a good job of providing an assortment of suspects with credible motives and the story chugged along.
My first thought when I started was that it felt like a mystery written about the time the story takes place. After that, the story sort of lost any detail that made it seem set in the 30's. It also had way more romance than any of my mother's mysteries (I first got into mysteries when I was 9 by reading her Agatha Christie and Rex Stout books) that were written in the 30's and 40's. It's not detailed or salacious, but there was none that I recall from my mother's books. Neither really put me off.
The author did a good job of providing an assortment of suspects with credible motives and the story chugged along.
October 21, 2019
I enjoyed this book more than the first in the series. It felt like the author was getting the hang of the world and characters she'd created, and the writing flowed more smoothly. I still found some typos and other inconsistencies, however, which I blame on the editor (or lack of one).
The story was fun, though, and the mystery, while predictable, held together more strongly than in the first book. Even though a lot of the book (like the first one) felt over-the-top or unrealistic, it all fit in the screwball comedy world of a 1930s romp.
Also, major props to the author for making the main character a mystery writer. A fun touch!
The story was fun, though, and the mystery, while predictable, held together more strongly than in the first book. Even though a lot of the book (like the first one) felt over-the-top or unrealistic, it all fit in the screwball comedy world of a 1930s romp.
Also, major props to the author for making the main character a mystery writer. A fun touch!
February 4, 2018
I really like this series but it is only four books and I am now half way through. Apparently the romance has set that number--first book Marjorie meets the men, second book Marjorie has second thoughts though I haven't read them yet I assume she gets married in the third and the fourth offers her as a married partner probably announcing a pregnancy at the end and an end to her mystery solving career. Anyway again this seems to be a fairly straight forward murder but there is a catch and a wild coincidence--you know one of those things that most detectives totally discount.
November 28, 2018
Marjorie McClelland, a mystery writer in the 1930's, tags along with her fiance, police detective Robert Jameson to try to solve the murder of a man killed by a poison dart while riding a Ferris wheel. Motives abound, and bigamy and industrial spying complicate the plot. Childhood friend Creighton Ashcroft joins the team, and Marjorie is attracted to him, though they seem to quarrel constantly. This is a quick read period piece with a light romance.
May 10, 2020
In this historic mystery, set in depression-era Connecticut, Miss Marjorie McClelland, full-time mystery writer and part-time sleuth. is engaged to Detective Jameson. When she involves herself in his current investigation of the death of a salesman, her life changes forever as she finds herself falling in love with her editor, handsome millionaire Creighton Ashcroft.
November 8, 2021
Fun read with a complicated murder mystery, and for Marjorie complications in relationships with the men in her life. To marry or solve the murder or figure out what she really wants is the sub-theme of the book. Chemical companies, old flames, meeting the perspective in-laws all while solving who really wanted not one, but two people dead.
December 4, 2017
I love this series
I love this series. It is well written and the characters are colorful. If you love a good mystery give the series a try.
I love this series. It is well written and the characters are colorful. If you love a good mystery give the series a try.
May 1, 2019
Love
Always love Amy's who done it mystery murders. Can't wait to read the next ones. Always a page turning experience
Always love Amy's who done it mystery murders. Can't wait to read the next ones. Always a page turning experience
March 27, 2020
The salesman
Interesting characters in this mystery. S good mystery going on with a very good twist at the end.I can see this in a mystery movie.
Interesting characters in this mystery. S good mystery going on with a very good twist at the end.I can see this in a mystery movie.
March 31, 2020
THE MARJORIE MCCLELLAND MYSTERIES ARE REALLY GOOD. THERE IS HUMOR ALONG WITH THE MYSTERY. INTELLIGENT HUMOR, NOT BUFFOONERY. I LOVE IT!
November 9, 2021
Another multi crime mystery with plenty of suspects and plenty of twists. Creighton is definitely my favorite character.
December 25, 2016
The second book in the Marjorie McClelland Mystery series.
May 12, 2012
My rating should really be 2.5 stars, I think. Although I enjoyed the screwball comedy tone, in the end I felt that what was sufficient to sustain movies back in the day was not really enough to sustain a novel. Possibly if I'd had time to read the book all in one sitting I would have noticed it less ... but possibly not. And there are other flaws discussed in more detail below.
Although Marjorie McClelland is a pretty good strong female lead, and her two beaus (Creighton Ashfcroft and Robert Jameson) were an interesting contrast to one another, the way they tried so hard to be gentlemanly about the whole thing left all the conflict in the situation up to Marjorie's internal confusion, which didn't do her any favors from the strength point of view - and sapped the plot of a lot of tension. In a movie, her shilly-shallying would have kept the tension going nicely via a fifteen-second scene or three. In a book, whole paragraphs of indecision at multiple points, mostly internally voiced, have the opposite effect.
As far as the mystery goes, the murder of a man while he was riding a Ferris wheel was certainly interesting, and the various wrinkles that piled up were quite entertaining. I did not anticipate the identity of the murderer (not that I'm a real whiz at that). I was sure it wasn't two of the most obvious suspects, but the actual person was a bit of a surprise. (Though the ultimate resolution of that bit of conflict was not a surprise at all.)
I'm going back and forth on being annoyed by the fact that Mead invented a "Hartford County Police" for Jameson to be a detective for, though there was never any such animal. On the one hand, the Constable of Ridgebury would have a very limited range; on the other hand, he could have been a deputy county sheriff or - even better - a member of the relatively new State Police. Ultimately it seems to me that the Hartford-County-Police thing was probably a quick and easy solution to a plot/character problem, which should have been corrected with some rather simple research.
Which brings us to the characters. Overall the characters were distinctive, as well as lively and entertaining where called for.
But it fell down for me when characters with obviously Jewish names did not act Jewish at all. Funerals (and weddings) are where cultural traditions are trotted out, no matter how assimilated people may be the rest of the time. It would have been unusual in the 1930s for the Nussbaums to not belong to a synagogue; even if they didn't, I have trouble believing that they would have failed to secure a rabbi (through the funeral home if necessary) for the funeral. And that they would have an open casket - !!! No. Flowers are also unlikely (unless sent by goyim who don't know better - not unheard of, in truth). And then there's the conversation with the daughter, where she asks Creighton if he believes in hell! NOT a Jewish question at all.
This and the police force thing incline me more toward a two-star review, because both demonstrate a lack of depth, and of commitment to depth on the author's part, that impresses me not at all.
But I left it three-star because it's a pretty good story overall - if a bit lacking in tension in the last third - and I did like the screwball comedy thing.
Although Marjorie McClelland is a pretty good strong female lead, and her two beaus (Creighton Ashfcroft and Robert Jameson) were an interesting contrast to one another, the way they tried so hard to be gentlemanly about the whole thing left all the conflict in the situation up to Marjorie's internal confusion, which didn't do her any favors from the strength point of view - and sapped the plot of a lot of tension. In a movie, her shilly-shallying would have kept the tension going nicely via a fifteen-second scene or three. In a book, whole paragraphs of indecision at multiple points, mostly internally voiced, have the opposite effect.
As far as the mystery goes, the murder of a man while he was riding a Ferris wheel was certainly interesting, and the various wrinkles that piled up were quite entertaining. I did not anticipate the identity of the murderer (not that I'm a real whiz at that). I was sure it wasn't two of the most obvious suspects, but the actual person was a bit of a surprise. (Though the ultimate resolution of that bit of conflict was not a surprise at all.)
I'm going back and forth on being annoyed by the fact that Mead invented a "Hartford County Police" for Jameson to be a detective for, though there was never any such animal. On the one hand, the Constable of Ridgebury would have a very limited range; on the other hand, he could have been a deputy county sheriff or - even better - a member of the relatively new State Police. Ultimately it seems to me that the Hartford-County-Police thing was probably a quick and easy solution to a plot/character problem, which should have been corrected with some rather simple research.
Which brings us to the characters. Overall the characters were distinctive, as well as lively and entertaining where called for.
But it fell down for me when characters with obviously Jewish names did not act Jewish at all. Funerals (and weddings) are where cultural traditions are trotted out, no matter how assimilated people may be the rest of the time. It would have been unusual in the 1930s for the Nussbaums to not belong to a synagogue; even if they didn't, I have trouble believing that they would have failed to secure a rabbi (through the funeral home if necessary) for the funeral. And that they would have an open casket - !!! No. Flowers are also unlikely (unless sent by goyim who don't know better - not unheard of, in truth). And then there's the conversation with the daughter, where she asks Creighton if he believes in hell! NOT a Jewish question at all.
This and the police force thing incline me more toward a two-star review, because both demonstrate a lack of depth, and of commitment to depth on the author's part, that impresses me not at all.
But I left it three-star because it's a pretty good story overall - if a bit lacking in tension in the last third - and I did like the screwball comedy thing.
May 14, 2015
'Ghost of a Chance' is the second book in the Marjorie McClelland murder-mystery/detective series written by Amy Patricia Meade. However, from the very beginning of the book, it is impossible not to feel the familiarity of the 1930/40s Screwball Comedy genre pervading everything, particularly in the guise of the strong, often over-dominant female lead character, Marjorie McClelland, the famous murder-mystery writer of Hartford, Connecticut, who mercilessly runs rings round her undeniably dull detective fiance, Robert Jameson, and her doe-eyed admirer, Creighton Ashcroft, the elusive and debonair English bachelor.
The love triangle played out between these three characters, constantly throwing the will-she, won't-she questions at the reader, amidst Marjorie's ever-changing, confused and, sometimes frustratingly contradictory mind, mingled with endless moments of lighthearted, if stereotypically patronising and chauvinistic humour, typical of the time period in which it is set, ensures the reader's focus remains throughout. Added to this is the 'ghostly' presence of actors such as Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracey and their ilk, which are prevalent in these characters - they would have played these scenes out superbly if such a film version would have existed then.
You have to read this book a little tongue in cheek - those with a tendency to take offence at anything remotely chauvinistic and patronising are best leaving this book to others because, as mentioned before, this is typical of the time period in which it is set and it really does have an authentic feel in those terms. However, if you can manage to read it with this in mind, you will find it an enjoyable, easy read, full of great humour and wonderfully created characters. The plot is well constructed and, whilst you might figure out the 'murderer' before the end, there are lots of twists and turns before that to keep you guessing.
In my opinion, this is a well-written book that doesn't take itself too seriously and which is worthy of your perusal for guaranteed entertainment from beginning to end.
The love triangle played out between these three characters, constantly throwing the will-she, won't-she questions at the reader, amidst Marjorie's ever-changing, confused and, sometimes frustratingly contradictory mind, mingled with endless moments of lighthearted, if stereotypically patronising and chauvinistic humour, typical of the time period in which it is set, ensures the reader's focus remains throughout. Added to this is the 'ghostly' presence of actors such as Cary Grant, Katherine Hepburn, Spencer Tracey and their ilk, which are prevalent in these characters - they would have played these scenes out superbly if such a film version would have existed then.
You have to read this book a little tongue in cheek - those with a tendency to take offence at anything remotely chauvinistic and patronising are best leaving this book to others because, as mentioned before, this is typical of the time period in which it is set and it really does have an authentic feel in those terms. However, if you can manage to read it with this in mind, you will find it an enjoyable, easy read, full of great humour and wonderfully created characters. The plot is well constructed and, whilst you might figure out the 'murderer' before the end, there are lots of twists and turns before that to keep you guessing.
In my opinion, this is a well-written book that doesn't take itself too seriously and which is worthy of your perusal for guaranteed entertainment from beginning to end.
April 8, 2015
Ghost of a Chance, the second Marjorie McClelland mystery is as enjoyable as the first. As in Million Dollar Baby, humor and murder walk hand in hand, with romance not far behind.
Much of the second novel focuses on Marjorie’s convoluted love life. Although she is engaged to Detective Jameson, she is uncertain of her feelings, especially when she discovers that Creighton loves her. As in classic romantic comedies, absurd situations, nobility of character and misunderstandings based on half heard conversations complicate matters immensely.
Creighton and Marjorie remind me of Agatha Christie’s classic detective duo Tommy and Tuppence. The characters play off one another, and much of the dialogue is spirited banter and good-natured teasing. Marjorie is extremely persistent in pursuit of her investigative goals, earning her the fitting nickname of Miss Never-Say-Die. Creighton’s charm and connections open doors and give access to otherwise difficult to reach suspects. Together they are an irrepressible team of detectives.
The murder is cleverly plotted. When a man dies on the Ferris wheel at the local fair, first impressions indicate natural causes. Marjorie is quick to discover that the death is actually murder – by a poison dart no less. There are numerous suspects and motives, as well as plenty of plot twists.
If you enjoy classic black and white romantic comedies or historical cozy mysteries with plenty of humorous hijinks, Ghost of a Chance is the mystery for you. Lighthearted and fun it is suitable for all ages of mystery aficionado.
Ghost of a Chance is currently available exclusively on Amazon.com.
I received a copy of Ghost of a Chance from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
–Crittermom
Much of the second novel focuses on Marjorie’s convoluted love life. Although she is engaged to Detective Jameson, she is uncertain of her feelings, especially when she discovers that Creighton loves her. As in classic romantic comedies, absurd situations, nobility of character and misunderstandings based on half heard conversations complicate matters immensely.
Creighton and Marjorie remind me of Agatha Christie’s classic detective duo Tommy and Tuppence. The characters play off one another, and much of the dialogue is spirited banter and good-natured teasing. Marjorie is extremely persistent in pursuit of her investigative goals, earning her the fitting nickname of Miss Never-Say-Die. Creighton’s charm and connections open doors and give access to otherwise difficult to reach suspects. Together they are an irrepressible team of detectives.
The murder is cleverly plotted. When a man dies on the Ferris wheel at the local fair, first impressions indicate natural causes. Marjorie is quick to discover that the death is actually murder – by a poison dart no less. There are numerous suspects and motives, as well as plenty of plot twists.
If you enjoy classic black and white romantic comedies or historical cozy mysteries with plenty of humorous hijinks, Ghost of a Chance is the mystery for you. Lighthearted and fun it is suitable for all ages of mystery aficionado.
Ghost of a Chance is currently available exclusively on Amazon.com.
I received a copy of Ghost of a Chance from the publisher and Netgalley.com in exchange for an honest review.
–Crittermom
April 12, 2015
This entertaining story really is a "bit of light reading". A murder mystery romance set in the mid-1930s, the heroine is predictably feisty, pretty and outspoken, indeed almost every character is a bit of a caricature. So don't take the book too seriously. It is supposed to be fun. If you take it too seriously you might be upset by some sexist comments from the male characters, even though they might be appropriate for the period. I also found the explicit references to the age and physical size of characters a bit jarring. Do I really need to be repeatedly reminded that Sharon is a plump girl who likes her food? That this female character is the younger and that one is the older? I deducted a star for that. But yes, the jokes are funny.
The story itself is a little convoluted, with many suspects and clues that sometimes seem inconsistent but fall into place at the end. Worth a read if you need something to relax with.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing it.
The story itself is a little convoluted, with many suspects and clues that sometimes seem inconsistent but fall into place at the end. Worth a read if you need something to relax with.
I received a Kindle copy of this book from NetGalley for the purpose of reviewing it.
March 25, 2015
Review: GHOST OF A CHANCE by Amy Patricia Meade (A Marjorie McClelland Mystery Book 2)
Generally I'm not a big fan of cozy mysteries. I prefer my mysteries and horror extreme and graphic, at minimum police-procedural. However, prolific author Amy Patricia Meade may just change all that. GHOST OF A CHANCE, which is second and newest in her series starring Depression Era crime novelist and feisty heroine-with-intellect Marjorie McClelland, is great!! Marjorie is not only intellectual, she is clever, a researcher, an author, and has an eye that cuts through nonsense to the heart of the matter and a wry sense of humor. Rarely do I laugh out loud reading any mystery, but Ms. McClelland is an irrepressible delight.
Now, it's off to repair my lack of Amy Patricia Meade mysteries!
Generally I'm not a big fan of cozy mysteries. I prefer my mysteries and horror extreme and graphic, at minimum police-procedural. However, prolific author Amy Patricia Meade may just change all that. GHOST OF A CHANCE, which is second and newest in her series starring Depression Era crime novelist and feisty heroine-with-intellect Marjorie McClelland, is great!! Marjorie is not only intellectual, she is clever, a researcher, an author, and has an eye that cuts through nonsense to the heart of the matter and a wry sense of humor. Rarely do I laugh out loud reading any mystery, but Ms. McClelland is an irrepressible delight.
Now, it's off to repair my lack of Amy Patricia Meade mysteries!
December 28, 2016
Second in a series set in the depression era throughout Connecticut, in which the love triangle between Marjorie, bored British millionaire Creighton Ashcroft and her police detective fiancé is finally resolved in a rather heavy-fisted fashion, as the police detective longs for his fiancé to conform strictly to gender roles, and Marjorie refuses to do so. The reader might imagine the dialogue being swapped by Katherine Hepburn and Spencer Tracy, but for the occasional mean-spiritedness of the characters attitudes towards others, particularly Sharon Schutt. The mystery itself was a bit more convoluted than in Meade’s debut novel, and not quite as satisfying.
January 3, 2020
This was a thrilling and interesting murder mystery fiction. I did get a bit confused with when it was supposed to be set as the historical tone felt all over the place and it was only checking the blurb that i found out when i was meant to be set. The murder mystery aspect was good and the detecting was done well. The plot holes were generally wrapped up well but i found that the relationship portion of the book was the weakest part and i could have done without that.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2008
This book was just a shadow of the first in the series, Million Dollar Baby. All the humor and wonderful dialog was lost as the author turned her attempts at a mystery into a romance. I believe there is one more in the series which I am willing to try in the hopes that it is more like the first book.
April 24, 2015
Bubby: I so love an independent woman! Our heroine, Marjorie McClelland is one sassy gal.
Sissy: I love the way she gives it back to all the raging chauvinists around her, her own fiance included. Read our full review of Ghost of a Chance by Amy Patricia Meade.
Sissy: I love the way she gives it back to all the raging chauvinists around her, her own fiance included. Read our full review of Ghost of a Chance by Amy Patricia Meade.
July 22, 2008
I didn't like this book as much as the first in the series. The mystery played second fiddled to a forced, unnecessary romantic triangle, and the eponomyous character fell on the wrong side of the line between "independent" and obnoxious.
June 19, 2012
I loved this book. The author has a great way of making the characters seem like close friends to me, because she's so in depth with their way of thinking and their personalities!! She's a great author and I can't wait to read the next:)
August 21, 2012
Just as lively as the first in the series, love the repartee between characters, it really is like something you would expect to see Cary Grant, Jimmy Stewart, and Katherine Hepburn in the movie version. Fun stories, plan to read the entire series.
May 19, 2013
While I liked this book, I thought the first one was better. This one made the main characters just a little more over the top - almost to the point of being annoying. I also thought the pacing on this book was a little off (probably because of all the back and forth to Boston).
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