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Ivy Nichols #1
Murder at Hotel 1911
A hotel clerk prone to panic attacks turns amateur detective in this elegant and atmospheric murder mystery.
If you want to spend a night amid the luxury and charm of the early 20th century, book a room at the Hotel 1911. You'll find 28-year-old Ivy Nichols behind the reception desk. The hotel is Ivy's only link to the family that abandoned her when she was a small child. Now, plagued by panic attacks, she pedals her sea-green Schwinn bicycle to work every evening, hoping desperately to hold on to her job.
When wealthy, imperious Ms. Swain arrives at the hotel and belittles Ivy, the young woman seeks consolation in the welcoming kitchen of George, the hotel's chef. Despite her tormentor's barbs, she dutifully informs George that Ms. Swain has a deadly allergy to shellfish. So when Ms. Swain collapses at dinner and dies, the police suspect that the chef made a tragic, inexcusable error. Desperate to save George's career, Ivy sets out sleuthing. She learns that numerous people in and around the hotel had motives to contaminate Ms. Swain's plate. Among them are Jeffrey Swain, the victim's son and heir; painter Rose Jewett; and British expat Hemal Sandeep.
Even after the police find traces of shellfish in George's kitchen, Ivy is determined to clear her friend's name. But the stress of the investigation, in a hotel filled with suspects, threatens to precipitate another terrifying panic attack...or something more deadly.
If you want to spend a night amid the luxury and charm of the early 20th century, book a room at the Hotel 1911. You'll find 28-year-old Ivy Nichols behind the reception desk. The hotel is Ivy's only link to the family that abandoned her when she was a small child. Now, plagued by panic attacks, she pedals her sea-green Schwinn bicycle to work every evening, hoping desperately to hold on to her job.
When wealthy, imperious Ms. Swain arrives at the hotel and belittles Ivy, the young woman seeks consolation in the welcoming kitchen of George, the hotel's chef. Despite her tormentor's barbs, she dutifully informs George that Ms. Swain has a deadly allergy to shellfish. So when Ms. Swain collapses at dinner and dies, the police suspect that the chef made a tragic, inexcusable error. Desperate to save George's career, Ivy sets out sleuthing. She learns that numerous people in and around the hotel had motives to contaminate Ms. Swain's plate. Among them are Jeffrey Swain, the victim's son and heir; painter Rose Jewett; and British expat Hemal Sandeep.
Even after the police find traces of shellfish in George's kitchen, Ivy is determined to clear her friend's name. But the stress of the investigation, in a hotel filled with suspects, threatens to precipitate another terrifying panic attack...or something more deadly.
314 pages, Audio CD
First published September 8, 2020
48 people are currently reading
2250 people want to read
About the author
Audrey Keown
3 books129 followersAudrey Keown set her mystery series in Chattanooga, Tennessee, the place she calls home. She lost her heart to the city in the early days of its downtown revival, and its bridges, coffee shops, breweries, parks, and people are its mixtape back to her. For ten years she wrote professionally for periodicals, which sharpened her storytelling skills for cutting into fiction writing.
Themes of redemption and connection to history often find their way into her work. Like her protagonist, she battles anxiety and writes about mental illness in her fiction in hopes of helping lift the stigma.
Get a beautifully illustrated short story about Mr. Fig, a well-loved character from Hotel 1911, when you sign up for Audrey's newsletter at bit.ly/audreykeownemail
Themes of redemption and connection to history often find their way into her work. Like her protagonist, she battles anxiety and writes about mental illness in her fiction in hopes of helping lift the stigma.
Get a beautifully illustrated short story about Mr. Fig, a well-loved character from Hotel 1911, when you sign up for Audrey's newsletter at bit.ly/audreykeownemail
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 136 reviews
April 13, 2021
Hotel 1911 is an elegant expensive hotel in Chattanooga, Tennessee. A former Victorian mansion, it's ten rooms are now largely occupied by well-to-do patrons.
Ivy Nelson is the front desk clerk at this hotel. While she could not afford to stay at the hotel, she has a deep connection to it. Before it was Hotel 1911, it was her family's home.
In her roll as front desk clerk, Ivy comes into contact with all the guests. When Mrs. Swain checks in, she takes great pains to emphasize to Ivy that she has a shellfish allergy. Ivy takes this information seriously and immediately informs the chef, her friend George. He assures her that Mrs. Swain will not receive any food that has touched shellfish.
At dinner that night, Mrs. Swain was served a different soup than the other guests. After taking two spoonfuls, she gasped, fell to the floor and died. The police were called and the incident investigated. Conclusion: death by shellfish poisoning. The police assume that Ivy's friend, George had made a tragic mistake. If correct, George's career will be over. Ivy decides to launch her own investigation. She determines that several guests at the hotel had motives to wish Mrs. Swain dead. Ivy remains determined to clear George's name even after police find traces of shellfish in his kitchen.
Seems like a standard who done it - until we realize that Ivy suffers from anxiety attacks and has mental health issues. Will the stress of this investigation trigger attacks? Can her determination be enough?
The conclusion is a bit of a surprise but it fits the situations. Ivy is an interesting character who always tries to do her best. With her problems (not drugs or alcohol), Ivy could be the new sleuth of our time.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #MurderatHotel1911
Ivy Nelson is the front desk clerk at this hotel. While she could not afford to stay at the hotel, she has a deep connection to it. Before it was Hotel 1911, it was her family's home.
In her roll as front desk clerk, Ivy comes into contact with all the guests. When Mrs. Swain checks in, she takes great pains to emphasize to Ivy that she has a shellfish allergy. Ivy takes this information seriously and immediately informs the chef, her friend George. He assures her that Mrs. Swain will not receive any food that has touched shellfish.
At dinner that night, Mrs. Swain was served a different soup than the other guests. After taking two spoonfuls, she gasped, fell to the floor and died. The police were called and the incident investigated. Conclusion: death by shellfish poisoning. The police assume that Ivy's friend, George had made a tragic mistake. If correct, George's career will be over. Ivy decides to launch her own investigation. She determines that several guests at the hotel had motives to wish Mrs. Swain dead. Ivy remains determined to clear George's name even after police find traces of shellfish in his kitchen.
Seems like a standard who done it - until we realize that Ivy suffers from anxiety attacks and has mental health issues. Will the stress of this investigation trigger attacks? Can her determination be enough?
The conclusion is a bit of a surprise but it fits the situations. Ivy is an interesting character who always tries to do her best. With her problems (not drugs or alcohol), Ivy could be the new sleuth of our time.
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. #NetGalley #MurderatHotel1911
July 9, 2020
Murder at Hotel 1911 by Audrey Keown is a hotel clerk, prone to panic attacks, who turns amateur detective to solve a murder. 28 year old Ivy Nichols, receptionist at the Hotel 1911, where she was abandoned when she was a small child, informs the chef that one of the guests has a deadly allergy. When the woman drops dead at dinner, the police are quick to blame the chef and a vast mistake. Ivy sets out to save her friend and prove this was a real murder. This was a very good book and the first book by Audrey Keown that I’ve read. The Hotel background was very interesting. There were many suspects and clues yet the book remained a mystery to the end. Thank you to Net Galley for an advanced reader’s copy.
February 16, 2020
Description
A hotel clerk prone to panic attacks turns amateur detective in this elegant and atmospheric murder mystery.
If you want to spend a night amid the luxury and charm of the early 20th century, book a room at the Hotel 1911. You'll find 28-year-old Ivy Nichols behind the reception desk. The hotel is Ivy's only link to the family that abandoned her when she was a small child. Now, plagued by panic attacks, she pedals her sea-green Schwinn bicycle to work every evening, hoping desperately to hold on to her job.
When wealthy, imperious Ms. Swain arrives at the hotel and belittles Ivy, the young woman seeks consolation in the welcoming kitchen of George, the hotel's chef. Despite her tormentor's barbs, she dutifully informs George that Ms. Swain has a deadly allergy to shellfish. So when Ms. Swain collapses at dinner and dies, the police suspect that the chef made a tragic, inexcusable error. Desperate to save George's career, Ivy sets out sleuthing. She learns that numerous people in and around the hotel had motives to contaminate Ms. Swain's plate. Among them are Jeffrey Swain, the victim's son and heir; painter Rose Jewett; and British expat Hemal Sandeep.
Even after the police find traces of shellfish in George's kitchen, Ivy is determined to clear her friend's name. But the stress of the investigation, in a hotel filled with suspects, threatens to precipitate another terrifying panic attack...or something more deadly.
My Review
Murder at Hotel 1911 is a winner!
The setting of Murder at Hotel 1911 is so real I want to step into "Hotel 1911" and live there for a while. The novel starts off with Ivy (which I must say is a well-crafted character) behind the desk at the hotel having to deal with the irate Amelia Swain. A difficult guest to say the least, Ivy tries her best to placate Swain and find her alternative accommodations to her satisfaction.
Ivy's main concern after finding suitable arrangements is to ensure Chef George is aware of Swain's severe allergy. However, at dinner something goes horribly wrong and Swain dies from an allergic reaction to shellfish. Of course Ivy must figure out who killed her impetuous guest before things go from bad to worse.
Can Ivy save the day? Can she figure out who really killed Swain? With various twist and turns arising throughout the book you will be surprised at the end.
Really great read, a must for cozy mystery lovers!
I was provided this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion, thank you.
I give this a definite 5 Star
A hotel clerk prone to panic attacks turns amateur detective in this elegant and atmospheric murder mystery.
If you want to spend a night amid the luxury and charm of the early 20th century, book a room at the Hotel 1911. You'll find 28-year-old Ivy Nichols behind the reception desk. The hotel is Ivy's only link to the family that abandoned her when she was a small child. Now, plagued by panic attacks, she pedals her sea-green Schwinn bicycle to work every evening, hoping desperately to hold on to her job.
When wealthy, imperious Ms. Swain arrives at the hotel and belittles Ivy, the young woman seeks consolation in the welcoming kitchen of George, the hotel's chef. Despite her tormentor's barbs, she dutifully informs George that Ms. Swain has a deadly allergy to shellfish. So when Ms. Swain collapses at dinner and dies, the police suspect that the chef made a tragic, inexcusable error. Desperate to save George's career, Ivy sets out sleuthing. She learns that numerous people in and around the hotel had motives to contaminate Ms. Swain's plate. Among them are Jeffrey Swain, the victim's son and heir; painter Rose Jewett; and British expat Hemal Sandeep.
Even after the police find traces of shellfish in George's kitchen, Ivy is determined to clear her friend's name. But the stress of the investigation, in a hotel filled with suspects, threatens to precipitate another terrifying panic attack...or something more deadly.
My Review
Murder at Hotel 1911 is a winner!
The setting of Murder at Hotel 1911 is so real I want to step into "Hotel 1911" and live there for a while. The novel starts off with Ivy (which I must say is a well-crafted character) behind the desk at the hotel having to deal with the irate Amelia Swain. A difficult guest to say the least, Ivy tries her best to placate Swain and find her alternative accommodations to her satisfaction.
Ivy's main concern after finding suitable arrangements is to ensure Chef George is aware of Swain's severe allergy. However, at dinner something goes horribly wrong and Swain dies from an allergic reaction to shellfish. Of course Ivy must figure out who killed her impetuous guest before things go from bad to worse.
Can Ivy save the day? Can she figure out who really killed Swain? With various twist and turns arising throughout the book you will be surprised at the end.
Really great read, a must for cozy mystery lovers!
I was provided this ARC in exchange for my honest opinion, thank you.
I give this a definite 5 Star
March 4, 2020
Murder at Hotel 1911 is a good, solid cozy mystery with a unique cast of characters. The story mystery builds slowly, giving the reader a chance to get to know the main characters on a bit of a deeper level. I'm looking forward to the next in the series.
May 10, 2020
Review for 'Murder At Hotel 1911' by Audrey Keown
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Crooked Lane Books.
This title will be available to purchase on August 11th.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I am looking forward to reading more of her work.
This book sucked me straight into the storyline from the start and kept me turning pages until the ending. A very interesting crime novel.
A fantastic cosy mystery that I read in a few spaced out hours filled with murder, mystery, red herrings and crime. A true page turner.
THE book is very well written and I found it was very descriptive throughout really putting me in the scene.
THE characters were all very compelling and well rounded as well as (mainly) likeable, realistic and strong. I would love to read more books with these characters in!!
I thought I really had worked out the 'who dunnit' and am very pleased to reveal that I was wrong!! This is always a bonus as it puts me off books where I have already worked out what was going on or who did what.
I recommend this book to fans of crime and murder mysteries.
272 pages
£10.44 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a ridiculous price for any ebook and unfortunately, even though I loved this book, I would never pay that... Hopefully it will come out at a much more reasonable price.
Rated 5/5 ( I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon.Com and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#MurderAtHotel1911 #AudreyKeown #CrookedLaneBooks #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Crooked Lane Books.
This title will be available to purchase on August 11th.
This is the first book that I have read by this author. I am looking forward to reading more of her work.
This book sucked me straight into the storyline from the start and kept me turning pages until the ending. A very interesting crime novel.
A fantastic cosy mystery that I read in a few spaced out hours filled with murder, mystery, red herrings and crime. A true page turner.
THE book is very well written and I found it was very descriptive throughout really putting me in the scene.
THE characters were all very compelling and well rounded as well as (mainly) likeable, realistic and strong. I would love to read more books with these characters in!!
I thought I really had worked out the 'who dunnit' and am very pleased to reveal that I was wrong!! This is always a bonus as it puts me off books where I have already worked out what was going on or who did what.
I recommend this book to fans of crime and murder mysteries.
272 pages
£10.44 to purchase on kindle. I think this is a ridiculous price for any ebook and unfortunately, even though I loved this book, I would never pay that... Hopefully it will come out at a much more reasonable price.
Rated 5/5 ( I loved it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon.Com and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads for more reviews
#MurderAtHotel1911 #AudreyKeown #CrookedLaneBooks #NetGalley #BookReview
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
Read
September 15, 2020Hello there, guests of Hotel 1911!
Thanks so much for reading and for your kind reviews!
I'm always happy to answer any questions you have about the book, my work in progress (book 2 of Ivy Nichols), or something else. So hop over to my author profile and use the Q & A section.
And click here to find me on social media or to get an illustrated copy of my short story on Mr. Fig: https://linktr.ee/audreykeownwrites
(I cleared my star rating. I heard some Goodreaders think that's cheating. It's hilarious to me that authors can rate and review their own books here anyway.)
Thanks so much for reading and for your kind reviews!
I'm always happy to answer any questions you have about the book, my work in progress (book 2 of Ivy Nichols), or something else. So hop over to my author profile and use the Q & A section.
And click here to find me on social media or to get an illustrated copy of my short story on Mr. Fig: https://linktr.ee/audreykeownwrites
(I cleared my star rating. I heard some Goodreaders think that's cheating. It's hilarious to me that authors can rate and review their own books here anyway.)
March 4, 2020
I was disappointed in this novel. The story is just too much into detail. The main protagonist of the story is Ivy, a front desk clerk at a hotel 1911, who has many problems (too many that I don't want to mention here). The story is too much focused around Ivy's illness. And although it is called described as a 'mystery' novel, I didn't find it mysterious at all. Overall, I would give this book 3.5/5.
December 2, 2020
Good start to this series featuring Ivy Nichols, an employee at a hotel with a 1911 theme. Lots of characters, most of whom have motives to commit murder.
September 8, 2020
Ivy Nichols' resilience and persistence is commendable. Audrey Keown's debut novel centers around a protagonist that is determined to uncover truth and justice, while fighting her own deeply personal struggles. Welcome to Hotel 1911. It's not your typical murder mystery; you'll be guaranteed to be kept on your toes, and when the book ends, you'll groan, lamenting that Ivy's adventures are over for now, that is.
While the book does starts off a bit slow, Keown uses such vivid descriptions and imagery that you'll almost feel—and wish—that you're physically there with Ivy and her crew every step of the way. Not only does Ivy have to grapple with the effects of the disappearance of a close family member, but she also seeks to be at the forefront in a race against time—all while also grappling with her own anxiety and mental health.
Readers will grow to love Ivy (and wish that they were fortunate enough to spend a night in Hotel 1911). I enjoyed this fantastic novel, and look forward to further developments in the life of Ivy. And don't skip the Acknowledgements: Keown shows respect and gratitude to the original inhabitants of where Hotel 1911 would be located in a thoughtful land acknowledgement.
I received an advance copy of this book for free, but would gladly read it regardless!
While the book does starts off a bit slow, Keown uses such vivid descriptions and imagery that you'll almost feel—and wish—that you're physically there with Ivy and her crew every step of the way. Not only does Ivy have to grapple with the effects of the disappearance of a close family member, but she also seeks to be at the forefront in a race against time—all while also grappling with her own anxiety and mental health.
Readers will grow to love Ivy (and wish that they were fortunate enough to spend a night in Hotel 1911). I enjoyed this fantastic novel, and look forward to further developments in the life of Ivy. And don't skip the Acknowledgements: Keown shows respect and gratitude to the original inhabitants of where Hotel 1911 would be located in a thoughtful land acknowledgement.
I received an advance copy of this book for free, but would gladly read it regardless!
May 24, 2021
With shades of Agatha Christie, a relatable amateur sleuth, and a charming setting, MURDER AT HOTEL 1911 is an absolute delight. I was immediately drawn into Ivy Nichols' life and plight, and the neatly-woven plot kept me theorizing. Cozy fans, and mystery lovers in general, consider this essential reading.
August 14, 2020
Hotel 1911 has everything I love about a mystery—a likable but flawed protagonist, believable and at times colorful supporting characters, and an atmospheric setting.
Ivy Nichols is a young woman with a history of panic attacks and a mother who disappeared when Ivy was a child. Ivy decides to take a job at the period-themed Hotel 1911, which was once the home of her shadowy ancestors. When an unpleasant guest dies from anaphylactic shock, possibly from an allergic reaction to something she ate, Ivy's best friend, George, the hotel chef is accused of murder. Ivy scrambles for answers while managing her anxiety.
I particularly enjoyed how Ivy learns about her mysterious ancestors through the setting of the hotel. There are intriguing hidden references in this book, and multiple layers to the plot. More character development than a lot of light mysteries. My favorite supporting character is the fascinating Mr. Fig, the hotel manager.
This story plays with classic murder mystery tropes but delivers them in a fresh light. Fans of the genre will see hints of their favorite mysteries in the pages, which are full of lore and introspection.
I received a free copy of this book for a review.
Ivy Nichols is a young woman with a history of panic attacks and a mother who disappeared when Ivy was a child. Ivy decides to take a job at the period-themed Hotel 1911, which was once the home of her shadowy ancestors. When an unpleasant guest dies from anaphylactic shock, possibly from an allergic reaction to something she ate, Ivy's best friend, George, the hotel chef is accused of murder. Ivy scrambles for answers while managing her anxiety.
I particularly enjoyed how Ivy learns about her mysterious ancestors through the setting of the hotel. There are intriguing hidden references in this book, and multiple layers to the plot. More character development than a lot of light mysteries. My favorite supporting character is the fascinating Mr. Fig, the hotel manager.
This story plays with classic murder mystery tropes but delivers them in a fresh light. Fans of the genre will see hints of their favorite mysteries in the pages, which are full of lore and introspection.
I received a free copy of this book for a review.
March 29, 2021
I found this book to be quite unique. From the concept of Hotel 1911, the mythology related room names, the Greek cook and his perfectionism; Mr. Fig, the loyal butler with more history with the hotel; our MC's dad is so lovable and his apparent love for his daughter really tugs at my heart. I find Ivy, our MC, relatable and I admire how she is trying her best to fight of her anxiety and panic attacks. I especially love the scene she had with the little Dupre girl, helping her get over her panic attack. The novel is very descriptive and this is something that both I liked at disliked at times. The investigation felt slightly dragged out and there were a lot of unnecessary scenarios. But I enjoyed the twist in the end because I did not see it coming and I was not able to guess whodunnit. Overall, I enjoyed this book and will read the next one.
March 2, 2021
This was actually my first cozy/murder mystery, and I really enjoyed it! In fact, I read the second half of the book in one sitting. What a ride! Loved Ivy, the other characters, the setting and the multiple layers that involved much more than a murder. I highly recommend this book. Looking forward to the next one in the series! Well done!
February 24, 2021
I listened to this book in one day. I felt like I kept wanting more, but maybe not completely in a good way. Unless I missed a ton, there wasn't a bunch of background information. I'm usually not a huge fan of it, but this is the first in a series and it was needed. Also, the ending wasn't very good...wth!
March 6, 2025
i finished this in a day i think i might love cozy murder mysteries
August 15, 2020
I love when a mystery takes me by surprise! I like to think I'm more clever than the sleuth, but in the case of Ivy Nichols, she's always a few steps ahead of me. An unintentional detective, she's compelled to clear the name of her friend, accused of murder-by-shellfish. Turns out she's quite good at it! And very funny while doing her work.
Ivy is every one of us - a friend, niece, cousin who presents to the world that she's got it all together, but her outsides don't match her insides. I love that honesty. She's vulnerable, human, and likable. And speaking of likable! The hotel butler Mr Fig - he's a bounty of surprises!
This is a fun read that incorporates a little bit of learning and lot of laughs and just enough reality to help us know we're "not the only ones."
Ivy is every one of us - a friend, niece, cousin who presents to the world that she's got it all together, but her outsides don't match her insides. I love that honesty. She's vulnerable, human, and likable. And speaking of likable! The hotel butler Mr Fig - he's a bounty of surprises!
This is a fun read that incorporates a little bit of learning and lot of laughs and just enough reality to help us know we're "not the only ones."
January 2, 2021
Meh...got this one as a "bundle" at the library--the staff "bundles" some titles together since we cannot browse the stacks. A debut novel of a series that takes place in Chattanooga at a boutique antique hotel. Ivy is a descendant of the family who initially owned the mansion generations earlier, and now works as a desk clerk. Oh, and she suffers from panic attacks. A guest succumbs at dinner and her beloved (I didn't pick up on that) friend the cook is blamed for serving shellfish to the guest despite being informed of her allergy. Writing was a bit uneven and elements of the story were introduced but never fully developed (maybe because it is book one of many??), but it made THIS volume stutter and the mystery itself was a bit idiotic. I won't be following this series.
September 6, 2020
This was a fun read and really great for a debut novel. I liked the youthful spirit of the character and found her more intriguing than a lot of flat, transparent amateur sleuths that generally show up as cozy mystery heroines. There is a lot of room for this character to mature and develop in the series and I look forward to watching Ivy's growth while working through her own personal struggles.
Unlike many cozy mystery writers, Keown’s minor characters seem much more interesting with rich back stories that are only hinted at in this introductory book to the series. Ivy is a well-written, fun amateur detective with a lot of personal challenges to work through and a quirky take on things, but I was equally surprised by how much depth and richness there is in the more minor characters. I feel like many authors in the subgenre tend to leave these characters one dimensional and lackluster. I was first introduced to this author when I got a link to read a related stand-alone short story about one of the novel’s side characters, Mr. Fig. It was INCREDIBLE and really helped me enjoy the book so much more. (I got so tickled whenever Mr. Fig made an appearance… he felt like an old friend at that point!) While I liked Ivy, I would really love to see additional short stories about several of the other characters that I liked and wanted to know more about. I would love to get to know George, Clarista, and others from Keown’s POV. You can tell the author really fleshed out the smaller characters and it really added to the quality of the novel. The standalone Mr. Fig story made him so endearing. I highly recommend you read it whenever you read the full-length novel.)
Interestingly, the historic hotel itself plays an essential role in the series opener and is almost a character unto itself. I found the author’s descriptions of the grounds, the rooms, etc. fascinating. I loved that the main character’s primary interest in working there is due in large part to wanting to learn more about her own family history with the house. Her own investigation is intertwined with the murder mystery, and I like watching her make discoveries about her family while she was figuring out the “whodunnit” of the story. The clever use of the hotel itself to propel the story was very cleverly done and really leaves me wanting to know more about Ivy’s family, her mother and relatives and what role their anxiety played in their downfall, and what new mysteries lie in store down the road for us to uncover.
Overall, this was a solid read and a fun, entertaining little mystery. Even if you had a hunch, the author left just enough detail aside for anyone to know for certain who the real killer was until the big reveal. I also really appreciated the setting in the small southern city of Chattanooga, Tennessee and the nods to local history of the area. I can’t wait to see where this series leads and what other fun offshoots it creates. I could totally see a tangent of historical mysteries based in the 1800s involving Ivy’s family members in her ancestral home. She is a fun writer and I am certain this is just the first in a long line of clever stories we will see from her.
Unlike many cozy mystery writers, Keown’s minor characters seem much more interesting with rich back stories that are only hinted at in this introductory book to the series. Ivy is a well-written, fun amateur detective with a lot of personal challenges to work through and a quirky take on things, but I was equally surprised by how much depth and richness there is in the more minor characters. I feel like many authors in the subgenre tend to leave these characters one dimensional and lackluster. I was first introduced to this author when I got a link to read a related stand-alone short story about one of the novel’s side characters, Mr. Fig. It was INCREDIBLE and really helped me enjoy the book so much more. (I got so tickled whenever Mr. Fig made an appearance… he felt like an old friend at that point!) While I liked Ivy, I would really love to see additional short stories about several of the other characters that I liked and wanted to know more about. I would love to get to know George, Clarista, and others from Keown’s POV. You can tell the author really fleshed out the smaller characters and it really added to the quality of the novel. The standalone Mr. Fig story made him so endearing. I highly recommend you read it whenever you read the full-length novel.)
Interestingly, the historic hotel itself plays an essential role in the series opener and is almost a character unto itself. I found the author’s descriptions of the grounds, the rooms, etc. fascinating. I loved that the main character’s primary interest in working there is due in large part to wanting to learn more about her own family history with the house. Her own investigation is intertwined with the murder mystery, and I like watching her make discoveries about her family while she was figuring out the “whodunnit” of the story. The clever use of the hotel itself to propel the story was very cleverly done and really leaves me wanting to know more about Ivy’s family, her mother and relatives and what role their anxiety played in their downfall, and what new mysteries lie in store down the road for us to uncover.
Overall, this was a solid read and a fun, entertaining little mystery. Even if you had a hunch, the author left just enough detail aside for anyone to know for certain who the real killer was until the big reveal. I also really appreciated the setting in the small southern city of Chattanooga, Tennessee and the nods to local history of the area. I can’t wait to see where this series leads and what other fun offshoots it creates. I could totally see a tangent of historical mysteries based in the 1800s involving Ivy’s family members in her ancestral home. She is a fun writer and I am certain this is just the first in a long line of clever stories we will see from her.
January 12, 2021
I think in some ways it was a more it's me not the book thing going on here. It's not badly written but it wasn't really a me book. I did not engage with Ivy as much as I wanted to and since she's the main character....I was interested in a character with anxiety issues (having them and depression myself) but all of that felt off somehow and she also uses it as a crutch/excuse (yes I do know that sounds ableist and I don't mean it to be. As someone with these issues it gets under my skin when it's used to excuse being nasty to others).
Ivy has taken a job at the titular Hotel 1911, which was a Victorian mansion owned by her family but was lost. We don't really know more about this connection other than a) she 'lost' her mother and b) she's hiding that she's working here from her father because she thinks it'll upset him.
The hotel manager is fanatical about keeping things in 1911 clothing/food/room etc. The one best suited to it is Mr. Fig the 'butler'/concierge and he's a very stiff, formal sort. George, the chef, is Ivy's friend and that's what draws her into the crime.
Mrs. Swain, the very unpleasant head of a pork product empire, is nasty to the staff and everyone around her making sure everyone knows she has a shellfish allergy (which makes sense but her nasty way of doing isn't helpful). Naturally she dies and her son blames George and the hotel.
To be honest, here's where some of the 'it's me not them' comes in. I loathe cozies that have cops opposing the amateur sleuth because let's face it, really it's obstruction and interference with a police investigation. It can be criminal. In a way they aren't even doing that much. The cops seem absolutely disinterested in it, seeing it as a mistake George made in prepping the food.
Ivy wants to clear her friend's name. She has about a few semesters of a psych degree under her belt before bailing (Her anxiety got in the way, which is one of the ways it actually felt real) but doesn't have enough knowledge to realize cops can analyze and understand if there was shellfish or poison in the food. Ivy is a very hit or miss character for me. She makes bad choices and then lashes out at others, blaming her illness. She sees herself as 'doing better' so she doesn't need therapy any more (which can happen but there's no indicators on how this happened), her pills taste like cherry etc (she's not a kid, is she taking kid anxiety meds because none of mine ever came in flavors).
The mystery was good. I would probably get another from the library since I just didn't connect with Ivy at all so I wouldn't want to buy it.
Ivy has taken a job at the titular Hotel 1911, which was a Victorian mansion owned by her family but was lost. We don't really know more about this connection other than a) she 'lost' her mother and b) she's hiding that she's working here from her father because she thinks it'll upset him.
The hotel manager is fanatical about keeping things in 1911 clothing/food/room etc. The one best suited to it is Mr. Fig the 'butler'/concierge and he's a very stiff, formal sort. George, the chef, is Ivy's friend and that's what draws her into the crime.
Mrs. Swain, the very unpleasant head of a pork product empire, is nasty to the staff and everyone around her making sure everyone knows she has a shellfish allergy (which makes sense but her nasty way of doing isn't helpful). Naturally she dies and her son blames George and the hotel.
To be honest, here's where some of the 'it's me not them' comes in. I loathe cozies that have cops opposing the amateur sleuth because let's face it, really it's obstruction and interference with a police investigation. It can be criminal. In a way they aren't even doing that much. The cops seem absolutely disinterested in it, seeing it as a mistake George made in prepping the food.
Ivy wants to clear her friend's name. She has about a few semesters of a psych degree under her belt before bailing (Her anxiety got in the way, which is one of the ways it actually felt real) but doesn't have enough knowledge to realize cops can analyze and understand if there was shellfish or poison in the food. Ivy is a very hit or miss character for me. She makes bad choices and then lashes out at others, blaming her illness. She sees herself as 'doing better' so she doesn't need therapy any more (which can happen but there's no indicators on how this happened), her pills taste like cherry etc (she's not a kid, is she taking kid anxiety meds because none of mine ever came in flavors).
The mystery was good. I would probably get another from the library since I just didn't connect with Ivy at all so I wouldn't want to buy it.
August 18, 2020
Out September 8th, Murder at Hotel 1911 is the debut novel for author Andrey Keown. Unfortunately, this book is not set in 1911, which many readers will think, and the story could have benefitted from if it had been. The hotel itself sounds lovely, and having the staff dress in period costume is a fun extra.
Ivy is an unusual character. She is not one hundred percent sure of what she is doing most of the time, she has many issues mental and emotional in her life, and she has secrets that keep her on her toes. She is deceitful with her father, employer, and sometimes her friends, not that she has all that many. She is rude, pushy, and not overly smart but seems to think she is because she can quote Jung. She has the attitude of a teenager going through puberty. The hotel where she works used to be in her family, and why this needs to be kept a secret is never explained. Why she is lying to her father about where she works, her medication, and her therapy aren’t explained either. Overall, Ivy isn’t the type of character readers expect in a cozy or like.
On the other hand, the mystery of Ivy’s past and a current murder keep readers wondering and forces them to finish the book. Other characters were interesting, but more background for these individuals would have made the book enjoyable. The story could have benefitted from a better description of the historic hotel, and those who work there. Background is the main missing piece of this book, and hopefully, this will be rectified in subsequent additions.
Readers were left with no doubt as to whom the murder victim would be, or how the victim would die. Suspects were plentiful, but the perpetrator of the crime was never in doubt. The police are portrayed as bumbling idiots, which is insulting to real investigators everywhere. Many questions were left unanswered, and this made it challenging to like Murder at Hotel 1911. I can only hope that the author will grow along with her characters, and future books in this series will become more engaging and entertaining.
I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy this book as much as I had hoped but I do believe that the author has a good base for future books if she can tweak her characters and make the stories tighter and more believable. I will welcome the chance to visit the Hotel 1911 again.
Ivy is an unusual character. She is not one hundred percent sure of what she is doing most of the time, she has many issues mental and emotional in her life, and she has secrets that keep her on her toes. She is deceitful with her father, employer, and sometimes her friends, not that she has all that many. She is rude, pushy, and not overly smart but seems to think she is because she can quote Jung. She has the attitude of a teenager going through puberty. The hotel where she works used to be in her family, and why this needs to be kept a secret is never explained. Why she is lying to her father about where she works, her medication, and her therapy aren’t explained either. Overall, Ivy isn’t the type of character readers expect in a cozy or like.
On the other hand, the mystery of Ivy’s past and a current murder keep readers wondering and forces them to finish the book. Other characters were interesting, but more background for these individuals would have made the book enjoyable. The story could have benefitted from a better description of the historic hotel, and those who work there. Background is the main missing piece of this book, and hopefully, this will be rectified in subsequent additions.
Readers were left with no doubt as to whom the murder victim would be, or how the victim would die. Suspects were plentiful, but the perpetrator of the crime was never in doubt. The police are portrayed as bumbling idiots, which is insulting to real investigators everywhere. Many questions were left unanswered, and this made it challenging to like Murder at Hotel 1911. I can only hope that the author will grow along with her characters, and future books in this series will become more engaging and entertaining.
I am sorry to say that I did not enjoy this book as much as I had hoped but I do believe that the author has a good base for future books if she can tweak her characters and make the stories tighter and more believable. I will welcome the chance to visit the Hotel 1911 again.
August 24, 2020
Murder at Hotel 1911 is unlike any murder mystery novel that I have read before; as opposed to the standard, often flat plot lines of such books, Keown creates relatable characters that interplay in an interesting, detailed, unique yet relatable world-- complete with first-person inner dialogue. Ivy Nichols, the main protagonist, struggles with severe anxiety, longs to find out more about the family that she has never known, and has a bit of a snarky, honest sense of humor. Keown writes Ivy in a way that is not only relatable to anyone who has personal experience with those very real and trying issues but gives a new narrative to mental health and self-discovery. Ivy's ambition, whit, passion, and insight are modeled alongside her mental illness, and Keown holds the two in an inspiring and interesting juxtaposition. This internal dynamic provide a unique and thoughtful backdrop for the main plot line-- the murder.
Keown is quite descriptive throughout the book, providing details specifically for the architecture of Hotel 1911 and aesthetics of the characters. This helped immerse me in the world of Hotel 1911 because I was able to image just how ornate the world the characters are living in is. Additionally, theses details often utilized aspects of history or greek mythology which gave the book a unique tone. (And, I learned a thing or two along the way!)
So, why is my review four-starred? I would have liked to see more details surrounding Ivy's anxiety, her feelings towards her long-lost family, and her internal dialogue relating to how she is experiencing the events emotionally-- not only what is happening. There were times throughout the book that Keown clued us into how Ivy was feeling and experiencing the events, but adding more depth to this aspect would have added an interesting dynamic that the book was lacking. Based on the title, I suspect this could be the beginning of an Ivy Nichols series for Keown, and I have hope that as we follow Ivy through more mysteries we will gain further insight into the world as he experiences it.
I was lucky enough to be chosen to receive an early release, digital copy of Murder at Hotel 1911 in exchange for an honest review.
Keown is quite descriptive throughout the book, providing details specifically for the architecture of Hotel 1911 and aesthetics of the characters. This helped immerse me in the world of Hotel 1911 because I was able to image just how ornate the world the characters are living in is. Additionally, theses details often utilized aspects of history or greek mythology which gave the book a unique tone. (And, I learned a thing or two along the way!)
So, why is my review four-starred? I would have liked to see more details surrounding Ivy's anxiety, her feelings towards her long-lost family, and her internal dialogue relating to how she is experiencing the events emotionally-- not only what is happening. There were times throughout the book that Keown clued us into how Ivy was feeling and experiencing the events, but adding more depth to this aspect would have added an interesting dynamic that the book was lacking. Based on the title, I suspect this could be the beginning of an Ivy Nichols series for Keown, and I have hope that as we follow Ivy through more mysteries we will gain further insight into the world as he experiences it.
I was lucky enough to be chosen to receive an early release, digital copy of Murder at Hotel 1911 in exchange for an honest review.
October 22, 2020
After much inexcusable delay, I finally read Ms. Keown's Murder at Hotel 1911. Loved it. Here's why, and there are a few reasons: I'm an author myself. Been dinking around with my own work for sometime now. Still, I can't, for the life of me, figure out how to write a mystery. A well crafted mystery, as this is, therefore boggles my mind and impresses me to no end. There are so many rich characters and I found myself suspicious of each one. Murder at Hotel 1911 isn't just a whodunnit though. Though, there is definitely a butler, Mr. Fig, my favorite character in the book who is not named Ivy. Of whom I was instantly suspicious because of the old trope. Evidently Butlers are always doing it. But, no! Mr. Fig is the best of what a butler should be: attentive to every last detail, filled with pertinent knowledge, and very loyal without having to support a Nazi-sympathizing employer come hell or highwater to prove his loyalty. (Sorry, Stevens, you unreliable narrator you...) Ivy Nichols, Ms. Keown's protag, is a fantastic combination of: strong-willed, curious, stubborn, compassionate, unrelenting, relatable (very relatable to the reader, in fact), vulnerable, and independent. Vulnerable in the strongest way possible, I might add, in that Nichols suffers from an anxiety disorder which impedes her investigation of the murder from time to time, yet Nichols has not the time not to be honest with herself and with the characters with whom she interacts regarding her anxiety. It is simply a part of her, which she acknowledges, and then proceeds...about her life, her job, her relationship with her father, and her new-found sleuthing-ability. Sleuthbility. Certainly the strongest piece of Ms. Keown's novel is the relationship Ivy shares with her father. He is kind, loving, wise, and they bond continuously over tea. However, both he and Ivy realize that she has grown into an independent, mature person and both of them feel the strains of great joy/great sorrow as they realize this over the course of the novel. It's a complex relationship that Ms. Keown unfolds for her readers at just the right pace and without bludgeoning them over the head.
All in all, a fantastic read. Highly recommend!
All in all, a fantastic read. Highly recommend!
August 22, 2020
I absolutely loved this traditional mystery and I highly recommend!
For me, pace is everything and Murder at Hotel 1911 sucked me in from the very beginning. Author Audrey Keown provides rich backstory and vivid settings that stimulate the imagination while still delivering a page-turner. I was hooked from the start.
I was delighted to find that I genuinely didn't know who the murderer was until the very end. I'd love to elaborate, but I'll just end up divulging half-spoilers, so no more on that :)
It breaks my heart that Hotel 1911 isn't a real place because I'd pay big money to spend a night there. I was completely enchanted with the location - the historic house revamped into a modern business, the family that originally built and loved the house, and the lavish imagery that Keown used to electrify it all within my imagination. It's just fabulous.
Ivy is a wonderful protagonist. Truly three-dimensional, I really appreciated the real-ness of her character. I'm sick of characters whose most shameful personality quirk isn't shameful at all (e.g. "isn't it cute how she loves to bake casseroles just too much?"). In my opinion, Ivy has more depth than most mystery protagonists - she's a strong woman who also struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. She's a devoted and loving daughter who also struggles with her relationship with her dad. She's not a caricature and I love that.
Moreover, Ivy's not the only strong female character. I love that the women in the book are complicated. I really enjoyed the depth that Keown gave to even the most minor characters (both male and female) by providing just a few interesting and surprising details.
I can't wait to visit Hotel 1911 again! More books, please!
For me, pace is everything and Murder at Hotel 1911 sucked me in from the very beginning. Author Audrey Keown provides rich backstory and vivid settings that stimulate the imagination while still delivering a page-turner. I was hooked from the start.
I was delighted to find that I genuinely didn't know who the murderer was until the very end. I'd love to elaborate, but I'll just end up divulging half-spoilers, so no more on that :)
It breaks my heart that Hotel 1911 isn't a real place because I'd pay big money to spend a night there. I was completely enchanted with the location - the historic house revamped into a modern business, the family that originally built and loved the house, and the lavish imagery that Keown used to electrify it all within my imagination. It's just fabulous.
Ivy is a wonderful protagonist. Truly three-dimensional, I really appreciated the real-ness of her character. I'm sick of characters whose most shameful personality quirk isn't shameful at all (e.g. "isn't it cute how she loves to bake casseroles just too much?"). In my opinion, Ivy has more depth than most mystery protagonists - she's a strong woman who also struggles with anxiety and panic attacks. She's a devoted and loving daughter who also struggles with her relationship with her dad. She's not a caricature and I love that.
Moreover, Ivy's not the only strong female character. I love that the women in the book are complicated. I really enjoyed the depth that Keown gave to even the most minor characters (both male and female) by providing just a few interesting and surprising details.
I can't wait to visit Hotel 1911 again! More books, please!
September 9, 2020
Even with a rather slow start I was sucked into the world of Ivy and Hotel 1911. She's in charge of the reservation desk when a guest checks in, the kind of woman who puts your teeth on edge. If you survive the encounter you deserve a medal sort of encounter. Ms. Swain is described in few but perfect words. She is not happy that she is not going to be staying in the adjoining rooms she requested. It takes all of Ivy's proper Southern upbringing to keep her cool under fire. Not only does she have to placate Ms. Swain, Ivy must do it dressed in 1911 costume and in the manner of speaking, too. During the conversation Ms. Swain makes it clear that she is deathly allergic to all shell fish. The reader now knows she will not be checking out in the usual way of a hotel guest.
When Ms. Swain drops dead at dinner and the chef, a man who runs a one man kitchen with little staff (just the way he likes it), well the prime suspect has been picked. Ivy is certain that her dear friend George couldn't possibly be responsible and sets out to track down the killer. Given that Ivy suffers from panic attacks along with other issues - some tied to the hotel itself - it's quite the challenge for her to step out of her comfort zone and solve the mystery.
I enjoyed Ivy's voice from the start. She has a way with words that I liked. She's human, she's real. The setting was perfect and the various threads of the puzzle kept me engaged from start to finish. I hope there will be more mysteries for Ivy to solve. I'll happily read them.
My thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
When Ms. Swain drops dead at dinner and the chef, a man who runs a one man kitchen with little staff (just the way he likes it), well the prime suspect has been picked. Ivy is certain that her dear friend George couldn't possibly be responsible and sets out to track down the killer. Given that Ivy suffers from panic attacks along with other issues - some tied to the hotel itself - it's quite the challenge for her to step out of her comfort zone and solve the mystery.
I enjoyed Ivy's voice from the start. She has a way with words that I liked. She's human, she's real. The setting was perfect and the various threads of the puzzle kept me engaged from start to finish. I hope there will be more mysteries for Ivy to solve. I'll happily read them.
My thanks to the publisher, Crooked Lane and to NetGalley for giving me an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2020
I have not made a secret of the fact that I have been in a slump. There are different phases of it that I have been cycling through. One primary type is when I continue reading, like/dislike a book and move on without writing reviews immediately. This might be (although I hope I am not jinxing it) the one to nudge me out of the slump.
It is not a brilliant book but is snappy and a quick read with believable characters and a mildly twisted mystery. I really enjoyed getting to know our leading lady and glancing into her troubled mind. The combination of all of the above factors might be the reason I felt good after I turned the last page (even if I did not 'get' what the ending was supposed to mean). I know there is enough packed into the background of the story to provide for at least two more books in the series, any of which I would love to read.
Ivy is hoping that she is at the end of her stints of short-lived jobs. She works in a themed hotel and is juggling a lot of anxiety issues. There is the mystery about her mother, something hinted at regular intervals, as well as the fact that she is keeping secrets from her father which bother her. These things add up to a very frazzled individual, to top it all the death in the hotel has her best friend implicated.
I liked the narrative style, the amount of information provided to us as well as what we can glean behind the scenes. It was not hard to land on the culprit early on, but it seemed to not make a difference in my interest in the ongoing events, something that does not happen often.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
It is not a brilliant book but is snappy and a quick read with believable characters and a mildly twisted mystery. I really enjoyed getting to know our leading lady and glancing into her troubled mind. The combination of all of the above factors might be the reason I felt good after I turned the last page (even if I did not 'get' what the ending was supposed to mean). I know there is enough packed into the background of the story to provide for at least two more books in the series, any of which I would love to read.
Ivy is hoping that she is at the end of her stints of short-lived jobs. She works in a themed hotel and is juggling a lot of anxiety issues. There is the mystery about her mother, something hinted at regular intervals, as well as the fact that she is keeping secrets from her father which bother her. These things add up to a very frazzled individual, to top it all the death in the hotel has her best friend implicated.
I liked the narrative style, the amount of information provided to us as well as what we can glean behind the scenes. It was not hard to land on the culprit early on, but it seemed to not make a difference in my interest in the ongoing events, something that does not happen often.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
September 9, 2020
This is a very enjoyable new series! This is the first in the new cozy series, "Ivy Nichols" by author Audrey Keown.
Right away I like Ivy as portrayed by the author as very real with everyday normal issues. Ivy is prone to panic attacks like so many of us and struggling to keep her life together. She has no family so she struggles alone in life. She is working at a historic hotel at the front desk putting up with all manner of abuse from customers.
Ivy informs the chef that a particularly difficult guest has a shellfish allergy. When said guest told Ivy she was very insulting to Ivy and had upset her terribly. Ivy and the chef discussed the shellfish allergy and he agreed to make sure she did not have contact with any shellfish. When the women dies of a shellfish attack her friend the chef is under suspicion when shellfish is found where here food was prepared. Ivy in spite of her anxiety and panic attacks steps up to help her friend clear his name. As she investigates she finds the women had many enemies and as she grows close to the suspect finds she may be in danger herself.
I am so looking forward to further books in this series. This is a delightful new series with all the right elements of a cozy mystery. Ivy is smart,, real and very devoted to her friends. I like her as a protagonist . Very well done to the author. Review cross posted . Delayed due to fire evacuation.
Right away I like Ivy as portrayed by the author as very real with everyday normal issues. Ivy is prone to panic attacks like so many of us and struggling to keep her life together. She has no family so she struggles alone in life. She is working at a historic hotel at the front desk putting up with all manner of abuse from customers.
Ivy informs the chef that a particularly difficult guest has a shellfish allergy. When said guest told Ivy she was very insulting to Ivy and had upset her terribly. Ivy and the chef discussed the shellfish allergy and he agreed to make sure she did not have contact with any shellfish. When the women dies of a shellfish attack her friend the chef is under suspicion when shellfish is found where here food was prepared. Ivy in spite of her anxiety and panic attacks steps up to help her friend clear his name. As she investigates she finds the women had many enemies and as she grows close to the suspect finds she may be in danger herself.
I am so looking forward to further books in this series. This is a delightful new series with all the right elements of a cozy mystery. Ivy is smart,, real and very devoted to her friends. I like her as a protagonist . Very well done to the author. Review cross posted . Delayed due to fire evacuation.
September 7, 2020
This book is a cozy murder mystery about a hotel clerk, Ivy Nichols, who is prone to panic attacks and turns amateur detective after her friend becomes a suspect in a murder case at the hotel.
I received a free review copy of this book, but NOT in “exchange for a review”. This is my review of the book as both a reader and a writer.
This was a new experience for me seeing as I haven’t read a lot of “cozy mystery” novels. I felt that it started a bit slow, but it didn’t take long for me to get wrapped up in the story. By the time I got to the last few chapters I couldn’t put it down.
I really appreciated the multiple hidden references and Easter eggs in this book. I love when I’m able to find hidden references in books and this one was full of them. It made it really fun for me to read.
The Hotel Butler, Mr. Fig, was a delightful character. I felt like other than Ivy herself, Mr. Fig was the most developed character. Anytime he showed up I was pulled further into the story.
I loved how the murder mystery part of the story wrapped up. However, I felt like certain relationships didn’t wrap up as nicely as I would have liked. I understand that this is the first book of a series so it’s good that some things were left a little open ended. However, I felt that certain relationships were a bit underdeveloped and thus didn’t really have a resolution.
What I loved the most though was the candid way the author, Audrey Keown, addressed the realities of living with a mental illness and being around someone who has a mental illness. When it came to describing the panic attacks, she was able to put into words an experience that we don’t always have the words for. This is the reason why I decided to round my 4.5 star to a 5 star.
I am very excited that this is a series though and that Ivy’s story will continue. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received a free review copy of this book, but NOT in “exchange for a review”. This is my review of the book as both a reader and a writer.
This was a new experience for me seeing as I haven’t read a lot of “cozy mystery” novels. I felt that it started a bit slow, but it didn’t take long for me to get wrapped up in the story. By the time I got to the last few chapters I couldn’t put it down.
I really appreciated the multiple hidden references and Easter eggs in this book. I love when I’m able to find hidden references in books and this one was full of them. It made it really fun for me to read.
The Hotel Butler, Mr. Fig, was a delightful character. I felt like other than Ivy herself, Mr. Fig was the most developed character. Anytime he showed up I was pulled further into the story.
I loved how the murder mystery part of the story wrapped up. However, I felt like certain relationships didn’t wrap up as nicely as I would have liked. I understand that this is the first book of a series so it’s good that some things were left a little open ended. However, I felt that certain relationships were a bit underdeveloped and thus didn’t really have a resolution.
What I loved the most though was the candid way the author, Audrey Keown, addressed the realities of living with a mental illness and being around someone who has a mental illness. When it came to describing the panic attacks, she was able to put into words an experience that we don’t always have the words for. This is the reason why I decided to round my 4.5 star to a 5 star.
I am very excited that this is a series though and that Ivy’s story will continue. I am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
August 17, 2020
Nestled in downtown Chattanooga, high on a bluff overlooking the Tennessee River, is the quaint Victorian themed Hotel 1911, a stylish, architectural marvel steeped in history of a bygone era. It has meandering gardens, upscale rooms, a devoted staff and a chef who excels in the culinary arts. It is no wonder that a room at Hotel 1911 is always in demand, that is until one of it’s guests dies under suspicious circumstances. When Amelia Swain, a visiting wealthy business mogul, dies during dinner from an anaphylactic reaction to a food allergy, the chef, George Anghelescu, is accused of negligence and responsible for her accidental death. It is up to his best friend and coworker Ivy Nichols to clear his name and find the real murderer....because this was no accident.
Follow Ivy as she unearths long hidden secrets and discovers that others have a motive to see Amelia Swain dead. For at Hotel 1911, not all are whom they appear to be.
I am so glad I received a free copy of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed Audrey Keown’s debut novel. She has written a mystery full of quirky characters, a scenic backdrop and surprises. I am eager to read the next book in this series and the see these characters individual personalities grow.
Follow Ivy as she unearths long hidden secrets and discovers that others have a motive to see Amelia Swain dead. For at Hotel 1911, not all are whom they appear to be.
I am so glad I received a free copy of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed Audrey Keown’s debut novel. She has written a mystery full of quirky characters, a scenic backdrop and surprises. I am eager to read the next book in this series and the see these characters individual personalities grow.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 29, 2020
I received a copy of this book, but NOT in "exchange for a review." This is my opinion as a writer. I was delighted to read her novel and provide a review since I adore Audrey Keown's writing.
***
Murder at Hotel 1911 is full of intrigue, murder, and Agatha Christie details that make a mystery fun. Set in Chattanooga, Tennessee, this modern mystery has local and historical flare. While Ivy Nicols, the main character, is discovering clues as to who done it, the story whispers back to Ivy's unknown family history in a time where ladies and gentlemen took tea on the veranda while skeletons hid in the basement.
One of the elements I admire about this book is that this isn't your typical cozy mystery. There are real life details, such as Ivy's anxiety. I love how Keown makes anxiety a part of Ivy's life, not the main crux of the story. In doing so, Keown demystifies anxiety and normalizes it in an entertaining mystery. Hats off to, Keown!
Not enough can be said about the delightful Mr. Figg and his relationship with Ivy.
I love Keown's writing style; it's smooth, quick and clear. I didn't want to put this book down. I'm looking forward to reading the finished copy of her next book.
***
Murder at Hotel 1911 is full of intrigue, murder, and Agatha Christie details that make a mystery fun. Set in Chattanooga, Tennessee, this modern mystery has local and historical flare. While Ivy Nicols, the main character, is discovering clues as to who done it, the story whispers back to Ivy's unknown family history in a time where ladies and gentlemen took tea on the veranda while skeletons hid in the basement.
One of the elements I admire about this book is that this isn't your typical cozy mystery. There are real life details, such as Ivy's anxiety. I love how Keown makes anxiety a part of Ivy's life, not the main crux of the story. In doing so, Keown demystifies anxiety and normalizes it in an entertaining mystery. Hats off to, Keown!
Not enough can be said about the delightful Mr. Figg and his relationship with Ivy.
I love Keown's writing style; it's smooth, quick and clear. I didn't want to put this book down. I'm looking forward to reading the finished copy of her next book.
August 18, 2020
I love a good cozy mystery and this one did not disappoint. In contrast to the intensity of a thriller, the cozy is quirky and suspenseful and Audrey Keown's debut novel was just that.
Ivy Nichols, hotel clerk turned amateur sleuth, is a passionate and determined character intent on clearing the name of her best friend, George, whose career as a chef is on the line after a hotel guest dies of an apparent allergic reaction. More than a mere mystery, Murder at Hotel 1911 delves into the crippling reality of mental illness, childhood trauma, and familial estrangement making it very relatable.
While I found the beginning of the book a bit slow (I wanted a bit more development of some of the characters earlier on in the storyline), I found myself hooked before long and devoured the last few chapters. After putting the book down and starting dinner I couldn't stop thinking about Ivy and the other characters, the clues dropped throughout the story, and what might happen in the books to come.
I'm very much looking forward to Ivy's future cases and learning more of her shadowed family history. I was thankful to receive this book for free and I'll be reading more by Audrey Keown for sure!
Ivy Nichols, hotel clerk turned amateur sleuth, is a passionate and determined character intent on clearing the name of her best friend, George, whose career as a chef is on the line after a hotel guest dies of an apparent allergic reaction. More than a mere mystery, Murder at Hotel 1911 delves into the crippling reality of mental illness, childhood trauma, and familial estrangement making it very relatable.
While I found the beginning of the book a bit slow (I wanted a bit more development of some of the characters earlier on in the storyline), I found myself hooked before long and devoured the last few chapters. After putting the book down and starting dinner I couldn't stop thinking about Ivy and the other characters, the clues dropped throughout the story, and what might happen in the books to come.
I'm very much looking forward to Ivy's future cases and learning more of her shadowed family history. I was thankful to receive this book for free and I'll be reading more by Audrey Keown for sure!
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