What do you think?
Rate this book
Agnes Lockwood Mysteries #1
Murder on Tyneside
ASIN moved from less recent edition
Recently widowed Agnes Lockwood is spending a few days on Tyneside in Northeast England, keen on catching up with her past. But after only a few days at the hotel, an expensive item of jewelry is stolen.
After more jewelry goes missing, Chief Inspector Alan Johnson is assigned to the case. During the investigation, Alan recognizes Agnes as a friend from schooldays and they rekindle their friendship – with Agnes bombarding him with questions about the case.
After having dinner together one evening, they find a body lying on the roadside. Fearing for her safety, Alan warns Agnes to stay away from the case: theft is one thing, but murder is something else.
But being an inquisitive woman, Agnes can’t resist getting involved... too involved.
Recently widowed Agnes Lockwood is spending a few days on Tyneside in Northeast England, keen on catching up with her past. But after only a few days at the hotel, an expensive item of jewelry is stolen.
After more jewelry goes missing, Chief Inspector Alan Johnson is assigned to the case. During the investigation, Alan recognizes Agnes as a friend from schooldays and they rekindle their friendship – with Agnes bombarding him with questions about the case.
After having dinner together one evening, they find a body lying on the roadside. Fearing for her safety, Alan warns Agnes to stay away from the case: theft is one thing, but murder is something else.
But being an inquisitive woman, Agnes can’t resist getting involved... too involved.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 30, 2016
1799 people are currently reading
1266 people want to read
About the author
Eileen Thornton
24 books126 followersSince beginning a comprehensive writing course with The Writers Bureau in 2001, my articles and short stories have been published in a variety of magazines. These include Heritage, Scottish Field, The Lady and People’s Friend. In 2005 a couple of my short stories were included in two quite different anthologies. The first story was in an International Anthology, published in June, while the second appeared in Café Ole – Too Hot To Handle, which was launched in Glasgow during August.
My debut novel, The Trojan Project, an action thriller, was published at the end of May 2008 by Austin & Macauley Publishers Ltd. Now my novel is to be re-published in the USA later this year with a brand new cover. Details of my novel can be found on my website. www.eileenthornton.co.uk I also review books for newbooks a bi-monthly magazine informing the public of new books on the shelves.
I am a member of the Society of Authors, the Society of Women Writer’s and Journalists, The Edinburgh Writer’s Club, The Borders Writer’s Forum, Mystery Women and The Melrose Literary Society, as well as being an Associate Member of NAWG (National Association of Writers Groups).
My debut novel, The Trojan Project, an action thriller, was published at the end of May 2008 by Austin & Macauley Publishers Ltd. Now my novel is to be re-published in the USA later this year with a brand new cover. Details of my novel can be found on my website. www.eileenthornton.co.uk I also review books for newbooks a bi-monthly magazine informing the public of new books on the shelves.
I am a member of the Society of Authors, the Society of Women Writer’s and Journalists, The Edinburgh Writer’s Club, The Borders Writer’s Forum, Mystery Women and The Melrose Literary Society, as well as being an Associate Member of NAWG (National Association of Writers Groups).
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews
July 31, 2022
If you're a fan of British crime thrillers, cozy mysteries, Agatha Christie-esque puzzles, or charming women who are inadvertently thrown in the middle of a murder, Murder on Tyneside is a book you will enjoy. Author Eileen Thornton delivers quite a caper with a wonderful side slice of charisma and old-fashioned wit with the launch of her Tyneside mystery series. The book was published in late 2016 amidst a sea of her other fun-sounding stories, but this had the most appeal when I decided to sample a Thornton novel. At the time, I hadn't realized it was a series nor did I know what Tyneside was, but its premise drew me in. Now I've been happily clued into both!
Recent widow in her mid-50s, Agnes Lockwood, travels back home to try to figure out what's next in her life. From the very first chapter, you can tell she misses her husband, but she's also practical enough to want to enjoy the rest of her life despite the recent loss. I fancy her as a cross between Nancy Drew and Miss Marple... not quite young enough to be a funny, flirtatious girl about town, but not old enough to seem like a nosy aging neighbor. She's witty and smart, but cautious and curious all the same. Someone I'd love to have a few drinks with and study the people sitting in the room around us. And that's basically how she solves the crimes. What starts off as a series of jewelry heists in the hotel where she's temporarily residing turns into a couple of murders. A mysterious man has been following her, and sometimes he seems innocent, yet at others we clearly know he's got ulterior motives. When Agnes meets a former high school friend AKA potential new love interest, she finds herself privy to all the information on the case given he's the lead detective doing the investigating. It's always good to have that kind of access to the clues, right?
Thornton has an easy, breezy writing style that makes you feel invested yet not over-stimulated. It's not quite a cozy or a thriller, but a fine balance of good old-fashioned detection and intuition combined with a few fun chase scenes, double crossing curious dialog and a tad of necessary romance. At times, it felt like I was sitting there with Agnes re-telling me the story days after it happened. It was driving me a bit nuts trying to guess how the thief was breaking into the hotel rooms given all the facts we learned about access cards, keys and background checks. Thornton cleverly leads us on a path to miss the obvious. I'm usually good at guessing the how, but this time I was stumped. I was certain who the criminal was, and I am glad I at least got that part right!
I'm curious where the author plans to go with the series, as I know there is at least one other book already published, but what about the future! Some clues were left behind in this series debut, and I'm sure there's a secret about Agnes' husband's death at some point, not to mention what's really going on with her sons' sudden move to Australia. She tells us why she chose not to go with them, but not much more... a good way to invest readers in the characters without knowing too much about their lives. Throw in a few areas of conflict with the other members of the police, a peculiar hotel setting, and a lovely woman who needs a new purpose in life, you've got all the makings of a strong following.
I'm glad I bought this book when it was on-sale last month, and I believe it will be again sometime later this year. Mark it on Amazon or other book sites so you can catch the sale and enjoy a new series. Now I need to figure out what book might be next for me from this author... another Tyneside or should I chance a completely different stand-alone book from Thornton's body of works.
Recent widow in her mid-50s, Agnes Lockwood, travels back home to try to figure out what's next in her life. From the very first chapter, you can tell she misses her husband, but she's also practical enough to want to enjoy the rest of her life despite the recent loss. I fancy her as a cross between Nancy Drew and Miss Marple... not quite young enough to be a funny, flirtatious girl about town, but not old enough to seem like a nosy aging neighbor. She's witty and smart, but cautious and curious all the same. Someone I'd love to have a few drinks with and study the people sitting in the room around us. And that's basically how she solves the crimes. What starts off as a series of jewelry heists in the hotel where she's temporarily residing turns into a couple of murders. A mysterious man has been following her, and sometimes he seems innocent, yet at others we clearly know he's got ulterior motives. When Agnes meets a former high school friend AKA potential new love interest, she finds herself privy to all the information on the case given he's the lead detective doing the investigating. It's always good to have that kind of access to the clues, right?
Thornton has an easy, breezy writing style that makes you feel invested yet not over-stimulated. It's not quite a cozy or a thriller, but a fine balance of good old-fashioned detection and intuition combined with a few fun chase scenes, double crossing curious dialog and a tad of necessary romance. At times, it felt like I was sitting there with Agnes re-telling me the story days after it happened. It was driving me a bit nuts trying to guess how the thief was breaking into the hotel rooms given all the facts we learned about access cards, keys and background checks. Thornton cleverly leads us on a path to miss the obvious. I'm usually good at guessing the how, but this time I was stumped. I was certain who the criminal was, and I am glad I at least got that part right!
I'm curious where the author plans to go with the series, as I know there is at least one other book already published, but what about the future! Some clues were left behind in this series debut, and I'm sure there's a secret about Agnes' husband's death at some point, not to mention what's really going on with her sons' sudden move to Australia. She tells us why she chose not to go with them, but not much more... a good way to invest readers in the characters without knowing too much about their lives. Throw in a few areas of conflict with the other members of the police, a peculiar hotel setting, and a lovely woman who needs a new purpose in life, you've got all the makings of a strong following.
I'm glad I bought this book when it was on-sale last month, and I believe it will be again sometime later this year. Mark it on Amazon or other book sites so you can catch the sale and enjoy a new series. Now I need to figure out what book might be next for me from this author... another Tyneside or should I chance a completely different stand-alone book from Thornton's body of works.
November 28, 2023
Three and a half stars
I suppose this would be called a cozy mystery. Parts of the mystery are pretty obvious but sometimes the main characters miss them.
I suppose this would be called a cozy mystery. Parts of the mystery are pretty obvious but sometimes the main characters miss them.
June 2, 2018
Lovable and Entertaining
Agnes and Alan rekindle their friendship, like in the old school days. He is a detective, she is a recently widowed hotel guest. They meet accidentally due to a case of theft, followed by some more and finally a murder.
The book is well written, immersive and enjoyable. The style is appropriate for a murder mystery with sufficient twists and turns. The reader is gladly entertained and would definitely want to read the rest of the series.
Agnes and Alan rekindle their friendship, like in the old school days. He is a detective, she is a recently widowed hotel guest. They meet accidentally due to a case of theft, followed by some more and finally a murder.
The book is well written, immersive and enjoyable. The style is appropriate for a murder mystery with sufficient twists and turns. The reader is gladly entertained and would definitely want to read the rest of the series.
March 30, 2017
This is the second book I have read by this author and it is once again a fun read. The author has written an intriguing crime story, which is similar in style to an Agatha Christie story. The heroine is a bit of a Miss Marple. I liked Agnes and Alan as characters and I'm sure we will see them in further books. An easy read, sure to appeal to lovers of murder mysteries.
October 16, 2018
About three-quarters of the way through this mystery, one of the policemen involved in the case calls it “ridiculous.” I can’t think of a better word to describe the plot of this book.
March 5, 2017
Oh, I enjoyed this book. It was a novel filled with interesting characters that had a complicated jewelry theft and murders.
Widow, Agnes Lockwood decides to go back to Newcastle, On Tyne, U.K. to visit the sites of her childhood. She missed the 'friendliness' of the local persons. She missed her childhood schoolmates and even hoped for a reunion.
Well, Agnes got her reunion with handsome Detective Chief Inspector Alan Johnson, as he is called to Agnes' hotel to investigate a jewelry theft.
The couple have instant comfort with each other and make plans to have dinner. The dinner goes splendidly and the reader, me, decides that this couple is a wonderful romance in the making...however, for Agnes and Alan things get mucky when they hear a loud thump, and the duo discover the first murder victim.
Agnes takes the reader on a wonderful scenic trip of the Tyne River and the buildings/businesses surrounding it. All along a gentle cozy sparks more thefts, heists, and murders. Even a kidnapping?
This was, I hope, the first novel in a series that Cozy readers will adore!
Widow, Agnes Lockwood decides to go back to Newcastle, On Tyne, U.K. to visit the sites of her childhood. She missed the 'friendliness' of the local persons. She missed her childhood schoolmates and even hoped for a reunion.
Well, Agnes got her reunion with handsome Detective Chief Inspector Alan Johnson, as he is called to Agnes' hotel to investigate a jewelry theft.
The couple have instant comfort with each other and make plans to have dinner. The dinner goes splendidly and the reader, me, decides that this couple is a wonderful romance in the making...however, for Agnes and Alan things get mucky when they hear a loud thump, and the duo discover the first murder victim.
Agnes takes the reader on a wonderful scenic trip of the Tyne River and the buildings/businesses surrounding it. All along a gentle cozy sparks more thefts, heists, and murders. Even a kidnapping?
This was, I hope, the first novel in a series that Cozy readers will adore!
January 9, 2024
This was fun at first, but then the plot got a little (or rather, a lot) silly. The writing was also a little amateurish and clunky at times, and despite the random silliness, the plot was still pretty predictable.
Tell you what though, a random middle-aged lady with no experience in policing whatsoever figuring out all the clues before the actual police did? As someone who's dealt with the shambles that is the police in this country before, that bit's actually quite believable.
Tell you what though, a random middle-aged lady with no experience in policing whatsoever figuring out all the clues before the actual police did? As someone who's dealt with the shambles that is the police in this country before, that bit's actually quite believable.
January 30, 2017
First off, I must say I really enjoyed this. It begins with widow Agnes Lockwood deciding to pay a long overdue visit to her hometown of Newcastle. As Agnes begins to settle in, an item of jewellery goes missing, then more pieces disappear. The police are called and Chief Inspector Alan Johnson is in charge of the case.
To her delight Agnes discovers Alan is an old friend from schooldays. Maybe she can find out more about the robberies and possibly help? After having dinner together to chat about old times they take a walk and discover a body in the roadside. Now Agnes is really interested.
I had to smile at how determined Agnes is to get in on the action despite Alan insisting she leave it to the police.
Will Agnes manage to keep out of the way and let them get on with it without her help?
Will she stay out of danger? Will her meddling be helpful?
What about her friendship with Alan? Can anything come of it ?
You will have to read this for yourself but you will enjoy yourself along the way.
Plenty of clues, lots of twists and turns. Definitely a good read.
To her delight Agnes discovers Alan is an old friend from schooldays. Maybe she can find out more about the robberies and possibly help? After having dinner together to chat about old times they take a walk and discover a body in the roadside. Now Agnes is really interested.
I had to smile at how determined Agnes is to get in on the action despite Alan insisting she leave it to the police.
Will Agnes manage to keep out of the way and let them get on with it without her help?
Will she stay out of danger? Will her meddling be helpful?
What about her friendship with Alan? Can anything come of it ?
You will have to read this for yourself but you will enjoy yourself along the way.
Plenty of clues, lots of twists and turns. Definitely a good read.
June 10, 2017
Agnes has lost her husband a year ago and her two sons are living far away in Australia. Still coping to adjust to her new life situation and to fight the loneliness, she decides to return to the place where she grew up, Tyneside, a middle-sized riverside town in England. Already on her first day in the hotel, a piece of jewellery gets stolen and this is a big piece of luck for Agnes - in two ways: for the first, she is very interested in puzzles and solving mysteries, so she simply cannot keep out of the investigation, particularly when it comes to more such thefts in her hotel. For the second, the investigating chief inspector is an old schoolmate of her and they get plenty of opportunity to meet. While he tries his best to keep her out of his case, especially when realising that it is starting to get dangerous for her, Agnes cannot be stopped and contributes with good observations and explanations to his investigations. On top of this, they start fancying each other.
This is an entertaining cosy mystery novel reminding of the stories around Miss Marple and I hope the author will produce as many sequels as Agatha Christie!
This is an entertaining cosy mystery novel reminding of the stories around Miss Marple and I hope the author will produce as many sequels as Agatha Christie!
May 31, 2017
I am a huge fan of Agatha Christie and Miss Marple--and “Murder on Tyneside” falls right into that category! It was a fun, British whodunit with Agnes Lockwood on a holiday. Of course, things begin to happen around her, and she helps the police with their investigation. A friendship is rekindled with Chief Inspector Alan Johnson, and a romance starts to bloom. This has the feel of a classic mystery, with a modern flare. I hope Ms. Thornton gives us more widow Agnes in future books.
June 11, 2018
Not for me
I got this as it had great reviews and was set in Tyneside . It really only covered a very small area on the Quayside .The plot was a shambles ,the poIice were pathetic ,no cctv,no use of forensics .The main romantic relationship was unbelievable and their language out of the 50s.
I got this as it had great reviews and was set in Tyneside . It really only covered a very small area on the Quayside .The plot was a shambles ,the poIice were pathetic ,no cctv,no use of forensics .The main romantic relationship was unbelievable and their language out of the 50s.
May 24, 2018
Agnes is a great character and there are lots of twists in the plot. A few typos, but a fast moving story.
August 20, 2018
Three and a Half Stars – Fun Read
Recently widowed, Agnes Lockwood, returns to her childhood hometown of Tyneside. It has been years since she last visited and she wants to spend time reacquainting herself with the town where she was born. While at the hotel, another guest next to her room has some jewellery stolen. When the police arrive Agnes meets the Chief Inspector, Allan Johnson, who turns out to have been a classmate of hers many years ago. Having a penchant for mysteries, Agnes involves herself in the investigation. But has she gone too far?
I have to say I struggled a bit with rating this story. While I don’t think it deserves three stars, there were also a couple of issues that prevented me from thinking it was a four-star read. I found the voice in the dialogue a miss. If it weren’t for tags, it would be difficult to know who spoke. One particular character was Achmed. It is said that he was a foreigner learning the language, yet his dialogue sounded the same as everyone else’s. The second issue I had was with the character Chief Inspector, Alan Johnson. For a detective, he certainly let Agnes tell him a lot about his case and he allowed her to interfere. I found him weak.
As for the story itself, this is a fun read. Author, Eileen Thornton, has a great way of keeping the reader interested in what will happen next and there are some surprising twists right up until the end. The character of Agnes reminded me of Jessica Fletcher from the TV show Murder, She Wrote.
If you like a nice mystery then you will enjoy this story.
Recently widowed, Agnes Lockwood, returns to her childhood hometown of Tyneside. It has been years since she last visited and she wants to spend time reacquainting herself with the town where she was born. While at the hotel, another guest next to her room has some jewellery stolen. When the police arrive Agnes meets the Chief Inspector, Allan Johnson, who turns out to have been a classmate of hers many years ago. Having a penchant for mysteries, Agnes involves herself in the investigation. But has she gone too far?
I have to say I struggled a bit with rating this story. While I don’t think it deserves three stars, there were also a couple of issues that prevented me from thinking it was a four-star read. I found the voice in the dialogue a miss. If it weren’t for tags, it would be difficult to know who spoke. One particular character was Achmed. It is said that he was a foreigner learning the language, yet his dialogue sounded the same as everyone else’s. The second issue I had was with the character Chief Inspector, Alan Johnson. For a detective, he certainly let Agnes tell him a lot about his case and he allowed her to interfere. I found him weak.
As for the story itself, this is a fun read. Author, Eileen Thornton, has a great way of keeping the reader interested in what will happen next and there are some surprising twists right up until the end. The character of Agnes reminded me of Jessica Fletcher from the TV show Murder, She Wrote.
If you like a nice mystery then you will enjoy this story.
March 3, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this book. I felt sorry for poor Agnes and Sandra what they went through.
A nice story and a bit predictable at times. I recommend this one.
A nice story and a bit predictable at times. I recommend this one.
March 17, 2017
Agnes wants to get away and she decides to visit Tyneside, a place of happy childhood memories. After a few days though, her hotel is plagued with thefts and Chief Inspector Johnson is assigned the case. Much to Agnes’s delight, Johnson is an old schoolmate and a friendship is reborn, but so is Agnes’s desire and curiosity as to who is committing these thefts, right under the noses of the guests and hotel staff.
When a body is dropped almost at Agnes’s feet, her curiosity is just too strong and she pursues the case both on her own and with CI Johnson.
This was a fun and intricate mystery with a ton of twists and turns to keep you turning pages. I hope to this isn’t the last we see of Agnes and her quirky personality.
Typically I receive books for free in exchange for an honest and unbiased review, however this is a verified purchase.
See all our reviews at our Book Explosions page on Goodreads.
When a body is dropped almost at Agnes’s feet, her curiosity is just too strong and she pursues the case both on her own and with CI Johnson.
This was a fun and intricate mystery with a ton of twists and turns to keep you turning pages. I hope to this isn’t the last we see of Agnes and her quirky personality.
Typically I receive books for free in exchange for an honest and unbiased review, however this is a verified purchase.
See all our reviews at our Book Explosions page on Goodreads.
March 7, 2017
A delightful low-key mystery
Agnes Lockwood has returned to Tyneside, her childhood home, for a holiday. She hoped to visit some of the places she remembered and hopefully find some of her former friends and acquaintances.
However, a jewel robbery is reported and Alan Johnson, the chief inspector who responded, remembers her from school. They have dinner together and, walking back to her hotel, discover a dead woman alongside the road.
Then there is another jewel robbery, and another, and another. Then there's another dead body.
This is rather a serene, low-key, almost cozy mystery with interesting characters and an intriguing plot. I would recommend this book for a lazy, rainy-day read.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected at least 75 errors.
Agnes Lockwood has returned to Tyneside, her childhood home, for a holiday. She hoped to visit some of the places she remembered and hopefully find some of her former friends and acquaintances.
However, a jewel robbery is reported and Alan Johnson, the chief inspector who responded, remembers her from school. They have dinner together and, walking back to her hotel, discover a dead woman alongside the road.
Then there is another jewel robbery, and another, and another. Then there's another dead body.
This is rather a serene, low-key, almost cozy mystery with interesting characters and an intriguing plot. I would recommend this book for a lazy, rainy-day read.
If I had proofread this book, I would have corrected at least 75 errors.
February 26, 2017
I really felt dragged into the lives of the main characters Agnes & Alan. Agnes Lockwood is a modern day Miss Marple who you really wouldn't really want living next door to you. (Trouble follows this woman)
Looking forward to the sequal which I'm sure Eileen is working on. I'm slightly biased as I'm a Geordie living down south.
5 Star read.
Looking forward to the sequal which I'm sure Eileen is working on. I'm slightly biased as I'm a Geordie living down south.
5 Star read.
February 8, 2017
Fast moving story told from unusual angle.
Enjoyed this detective story told mainly by a Lady on holiday. Some parts a bit predictable but story moved along quickly and held interest
Enjoyed this detective story told mainly by a Lady on holiday. Some parts a bit predictable but story moved along quickly and held interest
March 13, 2022
A holiday to be spent reminiscing is spoilt by a rash of burglaries at the upscale hotel Agnes Lockwood has chosen as her home base. A chance encounter with an old friend draws Agnes into the investigation and places her life in jeopardy.
I always find that I need to be fond of the main characters in a story to be drawn into it and happily, this was the case for Murder on Tyneside. Both Agnes (the amateur) and Alan (the police officer) were sympathetic characters and I wanted to hear more of their story. The setting, Tyneside, was new to me and this backdrop was a beautiful accompaniment.
At first, I was drawn into the book. The story was compelling and the action scenes had me quite concerned for our heroine. But as the telling continued I found that the pace needed to be increased yet plot points required further explanation. At the conclusion of the narrative, there were several events left unexplained and I felt uneasy as though I'd missed something. The wrap up left me a shade unsatisfied.
While it might sound as though I didn't enjoy the story, I honestly did. There was so much about this novel that was praiseworthy - from the uniqueness of the sleuth to the creativity of the plot. Other reviewers have commented that Agnes is a modern-day Miss Marple. I don't think that's too far afield.
I always find that I need to be fond of the main characters in a story to be drawn into it and happily, this was the case for Murder on Tyneside. Both Agnes (the amateur) and Alan (the police officer) were sympathetic characters and I wanted to hear more of their story. The setting, Tyneside, was new to me and this backdrop was a beautiful accompaniment.
At first, I was drawn into the book. The story was compelling and the action scenes had me quite concerned for our heroine. But as the telling continued I found that the pace needed to be increased yet plot points required further explanation. At the conclusion of the narrative, there were several events left unexplained and I felt uneasy as though I'd missed something. The wrap up left me a shade unsatisfied.
While it might sound as though I didn't enjoy the story, I honestly did. There was so much about this novel that was praiseworthy - from the uniqueness of the sleuth to the creativity of the plot. Other reviewers have commented that Agnes is a modern-day Miss Marple. I don't think that's too far afield.
June 14, 2018
Recently widowed Agnes and private-eye, Alan relight their acquaintance. Because of a theft, they cross paths but what shadows is, sleuthy Agnes just can’t help herself from getting tangled in a murder mystery even though Alen had counseled her to stay clear of the case. The characters are up to date. There are many suspects to keep you on your toes. The plot is mysterious with a mix of modern and days gone by. There were surprises but then circumstances enveloped quite nicely. Really enjoyed this one and looking forward to more of this authors work. Great job, Eileen Thornton!
May 13, 2018
Theft and Murder
A year after her husband dies, Agnes Lockwood comes back to visit Tyneside. In the Millenium Hotel where she is staying, some jewel thefts occur. That's where she reconnects with former classmate, Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. Being the inquisitive sort, Agnes cannot stay away from the jewel theft investigation. Even when it turns to murder. And the inspector can't keep away from Agnes.
A year after her husband dies, Agnes Lockwood comes back to visit Tyneside. In the Millenium Hotel where she is staying, some jewel thefts occur. That's where she reconnects with former classmate, Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. Being the inquisitive sort, Agnes cannot stay away from the jewel theft investigation. Even when it turns to murder. And the inspector can't keep away from Agnes.
December 17, 2017
I always read through the reviews after reading a book. It sometimes gives me insight into my own thoughts. I think this book, very well written with no distractions of any kind evident, is wonderful. Yes it is in the mold of Agatha Christie and Miss Marple, identified by one of the main characters of the book as being a favorite of hers.And the author makes her character work just as well as Miss Marple.
The characters of the book, both the good guys and the bad guys (there are both in the classic sense) are well created, real, with thoughts and deeds coming from their characterizations. With great characters, such as this book shows, with a strong story line that has some interesting twists to it, how could anyone be convinced the author's work deserved less than five stars. Certainly I was very well convinced from the first ten pages of the book. Wonderful Loved it.
The characters of the book, both the good guys and the bad guys (there are both in the classic sense) are well created, real, with thoughts and deeds coming from their characterizations. With great characters, such as this book shows, with a strong story line that has some interesting twists to it, how could anyone be convinced the author's work deserved less than five stars. Certainly I was very well convinced from the first ten pages of the book. Wonderful Loved it.
December 5, 2017
Agnes Lockwood returns to Newcastle to rekindle memories of her childhood.
She doesn't expect to be in the middle of a murder and jewelry investigation. Or. to reunite with Detective Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. Yet, that's where she's at.
Interesting characters and a well thought-out plot. Mystery at its best.
From page one I entered the story and loved it to the last word. I didn't see the twist coming, nor did the bad guy.
She doesn't expect to be in the middle of a murder and jewelry investigation. Or. to reunite with Detective Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. Yet, that's where she's at.
Interesting characters and a well thought-out plot. Mystery at its best.
From page one I entered the story and loved it to the last word. I didn't see the twist coming, nor did the bad guy.
November 23, 2018
Obviously I can't review my own book. But what I can tell you is that Murder on Tyneside (Agnes Lockwood Mysteries Book 1) is FREE to download until 25th November 2018.
However, please note, the cover has changed from the one shown here.
Book 2 of the series is now also available. Therefore you could take this opportunity to download both books for the price of one. Happy reading.
However, please note, the cover has changed from the one shown here.
Book 2 of the series is now also available. Therefore you could take this opportunity to download both books for the price of one. Happy reading.
July 11, 2018
Murder On Tyneside - Review by Martha A. Cheves
Alan sighed, as he turned back to face into the room. He had a case to solve. But where did they start with this one? Using his fingers, he counted off what the police knew. One: there was a body. Two: the victim had been shot and thrown from this window. Three: there was no blood found in the room. Four: the Scene of Crime Officers team had found no trace of blood in the entire building. Five: According to the curator, the windows and doors were all locked before he went home that evening. Yet the murder must have taken place here. Why would anyone carry a dead body up here only to throw it from this window back down onto the street? It just didn't make any sense. And then there was the question of how they got in.
Agnes' mind was also working on the crime and how it took place. She too decided to tick off the events on her fingers. First there were robberies. Then a woman, who happened to be staying at the hotel, was murdered, though her body was not found at the hotel. Third, today they find that another guest could possibly be involved in one- or even both of the crimes. So what would be next? She sighed. This was as close as she had ever come to investigating a real crime and she wasn't going to be put off by the detective working the case, even if he was trying to keep her out of harm's way. But where did she go from here? What would be number four on the list?
Agnes Lockwood had been away from Tyneside for a number of years. After the death of her husband she has decided to take some time and visit some of her childhood memories. Agnes had chosen the Millennium Hotel for her stay. It's views were beautiful and everything was up to date. After checking in she decided to take a short walk around. When she returned to the hotel she was surprised to find loud voices and a visit from the police. Apparently someone had broken into one of the guest rooms and stolen an expensive necklace. And this was just the beginning.
Chief Inspector Alan Johnson was assigned to the theft at the Millennium Hotel. As soon as he saw Agnes, he recognized her from their childhood. As children he had had a crush on her that ended when she and her family moved away. Well, maybe some of the crush was still there. In the back of his mind he seemed to hope so and even invited her out for a dinner of reminiscing. That is when they found the body that appeared to have been thrown out of the window above.
I read for this woman several years ago and loved her work then. And she didn't disappoint me with her writing of Murder on Tyneside. Her technique of allowing you to follow the characters as they actually 'think' things through makes her writing different from most books I've read. She includes the suspense, drama and mystery but also keeps the reading light with short chapters that makes it easier to keep turning every page to see what happens next. I will admit that I had an idea of who the culprit would be but she made it difficult to be sure as she twisted the story to lead me in other directions. Can't wait for Book #2
Alan sighed, as he turned back to face into the room. He had a case to solve. But where did they start with this one? Using his fingers, he counted off what the police knew. One: there was a body. Two: the victim had been shot and thrown from this window. Three: there was no blood found in the room. Four: the Scene of Crime Officers team had found no trace of blood in the entire building. Five: According to the curator, the windows and doors were all locked before he went home that evening. Yet the murder must have taken place here. Why would anyone carry a dead body up here only to throw it from this window back down onto the street? It just didn't make any sense. And then there was the question of how they got in.
Agnes' mind was also working on the crime and how it took place. She too decided to tick off the events on her fingers. First there were robberies. Then a woman, who happened to be staying at the hotel, was murdered, though her body was not found at the hotel. Third, today they find that another guest could possibly be involved in one- or even both of the crimes. So what would be next? She sighed. This was as close as she had ever come to investigating a real crime and she wasn't going to be put off by the detective working the case, even if he was trying to keep her out of harm's way. But where did she go from here? What would be number four on the list?
Agnes Lockwood had been away from Tyneside for a number of years. After the death of her husband she has decided to take some time and visit some of her childhood memories. Agnes had chosen the Millennium Hotel for her stay. It's views were beautiful and everything was up to date. After checking in she decided to take a short walk around. When she returned to the hotel she was surprised to find loud voices and a visit from the police. Apparently someone had broken into one of the guest rooms and stolen an expensive necklace. And this was just the beginning.
Chief Inspector Alan Johnson was assigned to the theft at the Millennium Hotel. As soon as he saw Agnes, he recognized her from their childhood. As children he had had a crush on her that ended when she and her family moved away. Well, maybe some of the crush was still there. In the back of his mind he seemed to hope so and even invited her out for a dinner of reminiscing. That is when they found the body that appeared to have been thrown out of the window above.
I read for this woman several years ago and loved her work then. And she didn't disappoint me with her writing of Murder on Tyneside. Her technique of allowing you to follow the characters as they actually 'think' things through makes her writing different from most books I've read. She includes the suspense, drama and mystery but also keeps the reading light with short chapters that makes it easier to keep turning every page to see what happens next. I will admit that I had an idea of who the culprit would be but she made it difficult to be sure as she twisted the story to lead me in other directions. Can't wait for Book #2
January 4, 2019
4.5 rating
For all the death, life threats, and theift that this book is packed with, I still found it to be very light and inquisitive. As weird as this sounds, I felt like it was a very a lovely read. Over all, it was kind of a slow burn for me. I usually struggle with slow burns, but with Murder on Tyneside I didn't. I found the pace to be cozy and comfortable, it's a book that causes you to lose yourself in thought without feeling rushed. It lingers and smoulders in a way, and for me it was more of a test in joining the characters to figure out the culprit, rather than getting too emotionally attached. Regularly, I'd rather the emotional attachment in a book to stay connected, but with Eileen's style of writting I actually enjoyed the overthinking that this book brought about.
Agnes, the main character is a widdow who is returning to Tynside for a visit per-say. She's from this place originally but hasn't been back to see it for years. Many changes have been made since her upbringing. The city as a whole has updated, mainly for the sake of tourism. It's a beachside place that brings in all sorts of outsiders. Agnes had seen the changes on the news, but this is the first she's seen them in person. She's excited and nervous to see home, yet at the same time she's lonely. She hasn't travled much since her husband passed, and he's always in the back of her mind.
The thing about Agnes, is that she's a bit of a mystery junky, so when a very expensive peice of jewelry goes missing from a room at the hotel she's staying at she manages to wedge herself right into the middle of the investigation. Almost imiditely she recognizes one of the leading authorities on the case. His name is Alan, and they wen't to school together as kids. Although their years of aging and life sircumsatnce has lead them each down different paths, they still hit it off. What I love about the premis of Agnes and Alan is that there is a very clear attraction from the begining, yet this isn't a romance. They do dates and spend a lot of time together as the case turns from one of theift to multiple murders, yet it doesn't turn to romance. The entire book revolves around the mystery only, which is refreshing.
Now, when I say that the case turns to murder, I don't say it lightly. Agnes is a nosy and observitive lady, so her input is needed and valuable. Within the first couple days of her stay two people turn up dead, and they're just as connected to the hotel she's staying at as the jewelry theift... but can they possibly be connected? Thanks to Agnes' observations in people watching, and her tedious overthinking ways, the clues, although hard to crack, are uncovered in places that no one else seems to be able to find.
I really enjoyed this book and will most certanly be reading book #2 in the Agnes Lockwood series!
For all the death, life threats, and theift that this book is packed with, I still found it to be very light and inquisitive. As weird as this sounds, I felt like it was a very a lovely read. Over all, it was kind of a slow burn for me. I usually struggle with slow burns, but with Murder on Tyneside I didn't. I found the pace to be cozy and comfortable, it's a book that causes you to lose yourself in thought without feeling rushed. It lingers and smoulders in a way, and for me it was more of a test in joining the characters to figure out the culprit, rather than getting too emotionally attached. Regularly, I'd rather the emotional attachment in a book to stay connected, but with Eileen's style of writting I actually enjoyed the overthinking that this book brought about.
Agnes, the main character is a widdow who is returning to Tynside for a visit per-say. She's from this place originally but hasn't been back to see it for years. Many changes have been made since her upbringing. The city as a whole has updated, mainly for the sake of tourism. It's a beachside place that brings in all sorts of outsiders. Agnes had seen the changes on the news, but this is the first she's seen them in person. She's excited and nervous to see home, yet at the same time she's lonely. She hasn't travled much since her husband passed, and he's always in the back of her mind.
The thing about Agnes, is that she's a bit of a mystery junky, so when a very expensive peice of jewelry goes missing from a room at the hotel she's staying at she manages to wedge herself right into the middle of the investigation. Almost imiditely she recognizes one of the leading authorities on the case. His name is Alan, and they wen't to school together as kids. Although their years of aging and life sircumsatnce has lead them each down different paths, they still hit it off. What I love about the premis of Agnes and Alan is that there is a very clear attraction from the begining, yet this isn't a romance. They do dates and spend a lot of time together as the case turns from one of theift to multiple murders, yet it doesn't turn to romance. The entire book revolves around the mystery only, which is refreshing.
Now, when I say that the case turns to murder, I don't say it lightly. Agnes is a nosy and observitive lady, so her input is needed and valuable. Within the first couple days of her stay two people turn up dead, and they're just as connected to the hotel she's staying at as the jewelry theift... but can they possibly be connected? Thanks to Agnes' observations in people watching, and her tedious overthinking ways, the clues, although hard to crack, are uncovered in places that no one else seems to be able to find.
I really enjoyed this book and will most certanly be reading book #2 in the Agnes Lockwood series!
December 31, 2018
A Strong Female Character
I had read great comments about both Book One and Book Two in this series so decided to start at the beginning. I was not disappointed and found the main character, Agnes Lockwood to have a strong personality, definitely not passive-aggressive.
Agnes gets her way, much to the chagrin of Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. In fact, her assertiveness to be involved in a murder investigation drives him a little mad. She’s smart about it though, identifying clues and making herself valuable in the investigation. This story unfolds with speed and continues along, not a dull moment. Agnes finds herself in the ultimate situation of being a potential murder victim and yet, saves herself only to become embroiled in another similar incident, this one could cost her life.
I really appreciate Agnes’s character and found myself rooting for her each time she found new clues or her summations helped drive the investigation forward. Suspense builds throughout with a climactic ending. While this story wraps up in an exciting manner, I’m wondering if Agnes and Chief Inspector Alan Johnson have a future in Book Two, which I’ll now be reading.
I had read great comments about both Book One and Book Two in this series so decided to start at the beginning. I was not disappointed and found the main character, Agnes Lockwood to have a strong personality, definitely not passive-aggressive.
Agnes gets her way, much to the chagrin of Chief Inspector Alan Johnson. In fact, her assertiveness to be involved in a murder investigation drives him a little mad. She’s smart about it though, identifying clues and making herself valuable in the investigation. This story unfolds with speed and continues along, not a dull moment. Agnes finds herself in the ultimate situation of being a potential murder victim and yet, saves herself only to become embroiled in another similar incident, this one could cost her life.
I really appreciate Agnes’s character and found myself rooting for her each time she found new clues or her summations helped drive the investigation forward. Suspense builds throughout with a climactic ending. While this story wraps up in an exciting manner, I’m wondering if Agnes and Chief Inspector Alan Johnson have a future in Book Two, which I’ll now be reading.
April 4, 2019
Cosy Mystery
Ms Thornton brings murder and jewel thievery under the same hat, adds a little spy spice and serves up an effective yarn. Her protagonist is a mature woman with a penchant for shopping and a brain to solve mysteries through sudden inspirations. As such, it is an enjoyable piece of escapism. My reservations lie in a few plot inconsistencies — a white van that plays a role is never secured — let alone searched for. Ms Thornton’s easy-going prose makes up for the inconsistencies, she is a skilled narrator. It’s easy to get lulled into the, perhaps Agatha Christie inspired, book. The characters are plausible and the setting characteristic.
Ms Thornton brings murder and jewel thievery under the same hat, adds a little spy spice and serves up an effective yarn. Her protagonist is a mature woman with a penchant for shopping and a brain to solve mysteries through sudden inspirations. As such, it is an enjoyable piece of escapism. My reservations lie in a few plot inconsistencies — a white van that plays a role is never secured — let alone searched for. Ms Thornton’s easy-going prose makes up for the inconsistencies, she is a skilled narrator. It’s easy to get lulled into the, perhaps Agatha Christie inspired, book. The characters are plausible and the setting characteristic.
August 22, 2021
A VERY ENJOYABLE READ.
Agnes Lockwood's husband had died the year before, with her children living away, she decides to go back to her own place at Tyneside to see how things had changed. She books into a hotel. Its here she meets an old school friend who happens to be Chief Inspector Alan Johnson, who works for The Newcastle Police Force. They soon find themselves friends again. When jewelry starts getting stolen from the hotel, then two murderers happen, Agnes finds joy in helping, Alan, seeing she was with him from the time it happened. Trouble is, Agnes hasn't realised the danger she can get involved in. But action certainly seeks out Agnes in this thoroughly enjoyable read.
A recommended Read.
Agnes Lockwood's husband had died the year before, with her children living away, she decides to go back to her own place at Tyneside to see how things had changed. She books into a hotel. Its here she meets an old school friend who happens to be Chief Inspector Alan Johnson, who works for The Newcastle Police Force. They soon find themselves friends again. When jewelry starts getting stolen from the hotel, then two murderers happen, Agnes finds joy in helping, Alan, seeing she was with him from the time it happened. Trouble is, Agnes hasn't realised the danger she can get involved in. But action certainly seeks out Agnes in this thoroughly enjoyable read.
A recommended Read.
June 8, 2024
Cozy contemporary mystery set in England. Agnes travels back to her hometown after the death of her husband. While staying at a classy hotel, a robbery takes place and the chief inspector turns out to be a former classmate.
The story is easy to follow and the mystery was easy to solve in advance of the ending. I found that Agnes was a very pushy individual and that turned me off to reading another book in this series.
The story is easy to follow and the mystery was easy to solve in advance of the ending. I found that Agnes was a very pushy individual and that turned me off to reading another book in this series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 222 reviews