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Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery #6
A Curious Incident
It's up to Gemma and Jayne to root out the killer in national bestselling author Vicki Delany's sixth Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery when the winner of a garden tour trophy is left pushing up daisies.
"I am not a Consulting Detective," Gemma Doyle reluctantly tells 10-year-old Lauren Tierney, when the little girl comes to the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium to beg Gemma to find her missing cat, Snowball. Gemma might not be able to follow the clues to find the cat, but her dog Violet follows her nose to locate the missing kitten in a neighbor's garden shed. Gemma and Violet proudly return Snowball to her grateful owner, and Gemma basks in praise for a job well done. But a few days later Lauren is back with ten dollars in hand, wanting to once again hire a consulting detective, and this time for a far bigger job: Her mother has been accused of murdering her garden club rival.
Sheila Tierney's garden, which everyone said was the one to beat for the West London Garden Club trophy, had been vandalized the night before the club's early summer tour. Sheila confronted her former friend and gardening partner Anna Wentworth in a towering rage, and the women nearly came to blows. Later that night, after having won the trophy for best garden, Anna is found murdered and Sheila Tierney is the police's prime suspect.
Despite herself, and despite the disapproval of her police detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton, the game is once again afoot, and Gemma finds herself and Jayne Wilson using their powers of deduction to ponder yet another curious incident.
"I am not a Consulting Detective," Gemma Doyle reluctantly tells 10-year-old Lauren Tierney, when the little girl comes to the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium to beg Gemma to find her missing cat, Snowball. Gemma might not be able to follow the clues to find the cat, but her dog Violet follows her nose to locate the missing kitten in a neighbor's garden shed. Gemma and Violet proudly return Snowball to her grateful owner, and Gemma basks in praise for a job well done. But a few days later Lauren is back with ten dollars in hand, wanting to once again hire a consulting detective, and this time for a far bigger job: Her mother has been accused of murdering her garden club rival.
Sheila Tierney's garden, which everyone said was the one to beat for the West London Garden Club trophy, had been vandalized the night before the club's early summer tour. Sheila confronted her former friend and gardening partner Anna Wentworth in a towering rage, and the women nearly came to blows. Later that night, after having won the trophy for best garden, Anna is found murdered and Sheila Tierney is the police's prime suspect.
Despite herself, and despite the disapproval of her police detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton, the game is once again afoot, and Gemma finds herself and Jayne Wilson using their powers of deduction to ponder yet another curious incident.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published January 12, 2021
157 people are currently reading
1172 people want to read
About the author
Vicki Delany
62 books1,907 followers“It’s a crime not to read Delany,” so says the London Free Press.
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
Vicki Delany is one of Canada’s most varied and prolific crime writers.
She is the author of four cozy mystery series: The Tea by the Sea series from Kensington Books, the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series from Crooked Lane and the Year Round Christmas series from Penguin. Under the pen name of Eva Gates she writes the Lighthouse Library Series.
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com , www.facebook.com/evagatesauthor, and twitter: @vickidelany
Vicki is part of Mystery Lovers Kitchen (http://www.mysteryloverskitchen.com) and Killer Characters (http://www.killercharacters.com)
Visit Vicki at www.vickidelany.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 344 reviews
September 12, 2020
A Curious Incident is the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series written by Vicki Delany and set to be published in January 2021. I've read all the previous books and when the latest became available on NetGalley, I scooped it up. I always enjoy Delany's cozy mysteries and really like being able to stay current with a few of her series. This one is no exception.
In A Curious Incident, Gemma and Jayne kick off the book with a missing persons... ummm... missing cat case. Poor pre-teen Lauren has lost her kitten, the only thing in her life that seems to love her very much at all. Lauren's mother is a mess. Her father might be having an affair and is never home. Gemma refuses to get involved, as the police will arrest her if she ever does try to solve a case again. If you haven't read the series, just know she seems to thrust herself into every murder investigation around town -- not always intentionally. This is no exception! Gemma finds the cat, and then the next day, Lauren is back again. "I need your help. My mom might've killed someone." And the new mystery begins!
Oh, what fun! Lauren is a great addition, and I had a curious notion that Gemma might need to adopt her. I won't give away any spoilers, but I will say her mother is a prime suspect in the death of a former friend / now enemy who might be the woman breaking up her marriage. There are also a few other garden club members, including an elderly neighbor who takes care of Gemma's garden. My vote was the hunky gardener in the beginning... then I decided on someone else. I won't spoil the surprise, but it has a wonderful side story and keeps you guessing til the end. Speaking of which... what a surprise we got at the end too! I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
I do like this series a lot. Characters are very strongly written. Gemma is direct, and her arguments with the police are always amusing. I think she gets away with it because she's British, and her tone is often misunderstood. That said it might also be due to the fact that she's dating Ryan, a detective on the force in this small Massachusetts town. My only moment or two in this book where I struggled was in Ryan and Gemma's relationship. In the past, even with their banter, there was a spark between them. This time, I thought Ryan treated Gemma poorly. He didn't return her "I love you" and he often rushed around her while investigating. I wonder if a triangle might open in in the next book... I like him, but he wasn't as strong as usual, in this latest book.
Nonetheless, I highly recommend this series. The mysteries are always well written and curious... a solid word for the book's title. Easy 4.5 stars and a bunch of sadness because I'll have to wait a year for the next one. Good thing I know the Christmas book in another of her series will be out soon too!
In A Curious Incident, Gemma and Jayne kick off the book with a missing persons... ummm... missing cat case. Poor pre-teen Lauren has lost her kitten, the only thing in her life that seems to love her very much at all. Lauren's mother is a mess. Her father might be having an affair and is never home. Gemma refuses to get involved, as the police will arrest her if she ever does try to solve a case again. If you haven't read the series, just know she seems to thrust herself into every murder investigation around town -- not always intentionally. This is no exception! Gemma finds the cat, and then the next day, Lauren is back again. "I need your help. My mom might've killed someone." And the new mystery begins!
Oh, what fun! Lauren is a great addition, and I had a curious notion that Gemma might need to adopt her. I won't give away any spoilers, but I will say her mother is a prime suspect in the death of a former friend / now enemy who might be the woman breaking up her marriage. There are also a few other garden club members, including an elderly neighbor who takes care of Gemma's garden. My vote was the hunky gardener in the beginning... then I decided on someone else. I won't spoil the surprise, but it has a wonderful side story and keeps you guessing til the end. Speaking of which... what a surprise we got at the end too! I can't wait to find out what happens in the next book.
I do like this series a lot. Characters are very strongly written. Gemma is direct, and her arguments with the police are always amusing. I think she gets away with it because she's British, and her tone is often misunderstood. That said it might also be due to the fact that she's dating Ryan, a detective on the force in this small Massachusetts town. My only moment or two in this book where I struggled was in Ryan and Gemma's relationship. In the past, even with their banter, there was a spark between them. This time, I thought Ryan treated Gemma poorly. He didn't return her "I love you" and he often rushed around her while investigating. I wonder if a triangle might open in in the next book... I like him, but he wasn't as strong as usual, in this latest book.
Nonetheless, I highly recommend this series. The mysteries are always well written and curious... a solid word for the book's title. Easy 4.5 stars and a bunch of sadness because I'll have to wait a year for the next one. Good thing I know the Christmas book in another of her series will be out soon too!
March 17, 2022
3.5 stars
This review was first posted on Mystery and Suspense. Check it out for features, interviews, and reviews. https://www.mysteryandsuspense.com/re...
In this 6th 'Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery', amateur sleuth Gemma Doyle investigates the murder of an avid gardener. The book work fines as a standalone.
Englishwoman Gemma Doyle now lives in the town of West London in Cape Cod, Massachusetts. There she co-owns 'The Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium'.....
.....with her Uncle Arthur Doyle - a spry nonagenarian who likes to travel and romance the ladies.
Gemma also co-owns the adjoining shop, 'Mrs. Hudson's Tea Room',
which is run by her best friend and business partner Jayne Wilson.
Gemma has a reputation for solving mysteries, so when 11-year-old Lauren Tierney can't find her kitten Snowball she asks Gemma to help. Gemma serendipitously locates the feline while walking her cocker spaniel Violet,
and cements herself as a heroine in Lauren's eyes.
Afterwards, when Lauren's mother Sheila is suspected of murder, the girl asks Gemma for assistance once again.
This puts Gemma on the horns of dilemma. The bookstore owner loves to investigate homicides, but she's been told to stop sticking her nose into police business by her boyfriend Detective Ryan Ashburton and his partner Detective Louise Estrada. Nevertheless, Gemma feels she can't let Lauren down, and snoops around anyway.
Gemma learns that Lauren's mother Sheila Tierney and the victim Anna Wentworth were fellow members of the West London Garden Club.
Both women were expert horticulturists whose yards were on the prestigious garden tour, and in competition for the best garden trophy.
On the morning of the judging Sheila awoke to find her flowers and bushes destroyed. Completely distraught, Sheila rushed to Anna's house, accused her of sabotage, and loudly threatened her. Later that night Anna was killed while walking her dog Peony.
The police find few clues at Anna's murder scene, but Sheila's previous behavior makes her a prime suspect. Moreover, whispers circulate that Anna was having an affair with Sheila's husband David.
While the police make their inquiries, Gemma sneakily inspects the crime scene, surreptitiously snoops into the lives of the Tierneys and Wentworths, and mines the West London rumor mill for information.
During the investigation, 11-year-old Lauren Tierney and her cat Snowball become temporary houseguests at Gemma's home. Since school is out for the summer, Lauren also helps out at the Sherlock Holmes' Bookshop and Emporium - where she assists customers, and at Mrs. Hudson's Tea Shop - where she learns to bake.
Lauren is a sweet girl who hopes to clear her mother of suspicion and repair her parents' seemingly troubled marriage.
When Gemma is busy outside the emporium, she leaves the bookstore in the capable hands of her twentysomething assistant Ashleigh, whose eccentric wardrobe reflects her mood. For instance, inspired by a garden club visit, Ashleigh wears a floppy straw hat and a gardening outfit.
The emporium also gets occasional help from Gemma's friend Donald - a former lawyer turned Sherlock Holmes scholar - who likes to wear an inverness cape and deerstalker hat.
In addition to running her business, Gemma has daily partners' meetings with Jayne in the tea shop. There the ladies enjoy the eatery's leftovers, which can be egg and salmon tea sandwiches,
raspberry tarts,
mini coconut cupcakes,
and raspberry macarons.
Gemma and Jayne also pursue their romantic interests, Gemma's being her cop boyfriend Ryan Ashburton,
and Jayne's being her restaurateur beau Andy Whitehall.
Gemma couldn't be happier about this, since she's been trying to get Jayne and Andy together for ages.
Despite police objections, Gemma unearths clues that help solve the murder, which the astute reader may sniff out as well.
This is an enjoyable cozy mystery with a pleasant New England setting and popular recurring characters.
Thanks to Netgalley, Vicki Delany, and Crooked Lane Books for a copy of the book.
You can follow my reviews at https://reviewsbybarbsaffer.blogspot.com
October 26, 2020
Here I am again jumping into a series at book six instead of starting at the beginning. It was okay though as this book was just fine read as a stand alone. The characters were strong and understandable with the minimum of back story, and the story was complete within the book.
The main character, Gemma Doyle, runs a book store, is a Sherlock Holmes tragic, and shares a number of characteristics with the famous detective. When a local citizen has her garden wrecked and another one is found murdered Gemma is always a step or two ahead of the police in solving the crimes.
The content is all typical of a good cosy mystery plus it is well written, nicely paced and very readable. I enjoyed all the characters and their animals and the setting. Any book set in a bookshop has to be good! I will be looking out for more by this author.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The main character, Gemma Doyle, runs a book store, is a Sherlock Holmes tragic, and shares a number of characteristics with the famous detective. When a local citizen has her garden wrecked and another one is found murdered Gemma is always a step or two ahead of the police in solving the crimes.
The content is all typical of a good cosy mystery plus it is well written, nicely paced and very readable. I enjoyed all the characters and their animals and the setting. Any book set in a bookshop has to be good! I will be looking out for more by this author.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
December 14, 2020
A typical Sherlock Holmesy style detective novel that has you in splits. The tale told from the protagonist's POV has you as surprised, interested, and investigative as the central actor itself. Every episode is as gripping and exciting as the previous one, and the account only continues to get better and better. I literally couldn't hold myself from reading it on an asap basis; it is utterly captivating. The fast-paced narrative has you on your toes.
I know I have made a straight jump into volume six of the series; but, I don't think I must have missed anything from the past books, other than the character relations, as every story idea appeared to be different. The book has a perfect cozy ambiance wherein you sneak into your quilt with a cup of hot cocoa and solely delve into their environment. The book's name, cover, and blurb flawlessly blend with the overall end product.
Appreciate NetGalley and Author Vicki Delany for the ARC of this book. I am voluntarily giving my review in exchange for this book.
I know I have made a straight jump into volume six of the series; but, I don't think I must have missed anything from the past books, other than the character relations, as every story idea appeared to be different. The book has a perfect cozy ambiance wherein you sneak into your quilt with a cup of hot cocoa and solely delve into their environment. The book's name, cover, and blurb flawlessly blend with the overall end product.
Appreciate NetGalley and Author Vicki Delany for the ARC of this book. I am voluntarily giving my review in exchange for this book.
October 25, 2024
Four and a half stars
Gemma Doyle tells young Lauren Tierney that she is ‘not a consulting detective.’ But Lauren has come to her because Gemma has a reputation for having solved other mysteries and she begs Gemma to find her missing kitten. Looking at the expectant, trusting face, Gemma reluctantly agrees to try. When the kitten is located thanks to Violet, Gemma’s dog, the girl is relieved. But then Lauren comes back a few days later, looking to hire Gemma to help her mother Sheila who is accused of murdering Anna Wentworth her garden club rival.
Sheila is under suspicion because her garden was trashed so she could not win the West London Garden club trophy for best garden, which Anna then wins. Would Sheila go to such lengths? Then the same night Anna is found murdered. If Sheila didn’t murder Anna, who did?
Gemma knows she should leave it to the police, which includes her detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton. But she cannot leave it alone. So with her best friend Jayne Wilson, Gemma sets about trying to solve the mystery.
Though it is book 6 in the series, this is my first Sherlock Holmes bookshop mystery. And it’s fine to read without having read others in the series.
I throughly enjoyed it. Gemma and Jayne and Ryan are all likable. Lauren will steal your heart and the mystery throws up enough clues, or perhaps red herrings, to keep the reader second guessing. A light entertaining read that has whetted my appetite for more books in this series. Good fun.
Gemma Doyle tells young Lauren Tierney that she is ‘not a consulting detective.’ But Lauren has come to her because Gemma has a reputation for having solved other mysteries and she begs Gemma to find her missing kitten. Looking at the expectant, trusting face, Gemma reluctantly agrees to try. When the kitten is located thanks to Violet, Gemma’s dog, the girl is relieved. But then Lauren comes back a few days later, looking to hire Gemma to help her mother Sheila who is accused of murdering Anna Wentworth her garden club rival.
Sheila is under suspicion because her garden was trashed so she could not win the West London Garden club trophy for best garden, which Anna then wins. Would Sheila go to such lengths? Then the same night Anna is found murdered. If Sheila didn’t murder Anna, who did?
Gemma knows she should leave it to the police, which includes her detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton. But she cannot leave it alone. So with her best friend Jayne Wilson, Gemma sets about trying to solve the mystery.
Though it is book 6 in the series, this is my first Sherlock Holmes bookshop mystery. And it’s fine to read without having read others in the series.
I throughly enjoyed it. Gemma and Jayne and Ryan are all likable. Lauren will steal your heart and the mystery throws up enough clues, or perhaps red herrings, to keep the reader second guessing. A light entertaining read that has whetted my appetite for more books in this series. Good fun.
December 21, 2024
Even though this is #6, you can read it as a stand-alone.
The main character...
Gemma Doyle, runs a Sherlockian book store, and is quite the detective like Holmes, even though she doesn’t profess to be one.
When a local citizen has her garden wrecked and another one is found murdered Gemma is always a step or two ahead of the police in figuring things out.
If this sounds like a typical cozy, it is – but, it is light and fluffy and pleasant, and the characters are ones you will enjoy hanging around.
The main character...
Gemma Doyle, runs a Sherlockian book store, and is quite the detective like Holmes, even though she doesn’t profess to be one.
When a local citizen has her garden wrecked and another one is found murdered Gemma is always a step or two ahead of the police in figuring things out.
If this sounds like a typical cozy, it is – but, it is light and fluffy and pleasant, and the characters are ones you will enjoy hanging around.
February 3, 2021
This is the 6th book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery series but the first one I have read. Gemma Doyle, a British, owns the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium in a small New England town in Massachusetts and when she is not busy with her shop, it seems she is busy using her powers of deduction towards solving mysteries and crimes... in typical Sherlock Holmes style. This book finds Gemma solving two mysteries: the first, a teeny weeny one of locating the pet cat of a twelve year old girl Lauren and the second and more serious one involving Lauren's mother who is accused of murdering a fellow garden club member Anna Wentworth.
Even though I haven't read any of the previous books, I did manage to get the gist of who and what the main characters are like. The one thing that I was not sure about was Gemma and detective Ryan's relationship. Apparently, their romantic relationship is an on-off-on affair as hinted and going by how they interacted in this book, I don't seem to have much hope for them. I found it weird and hypocritical that Ryan is mostly aloof and indifferent towards Gemma and always telling her not to butt in the official investigation but is ever ready to get any information from her when she comes across any clues or leads. Not too sure about this pairing.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Vicki Delany for the e-Arc of the book. I just discovered that the author Vicki Delany also writes as Eva Gates.
The book was published on 12th January 2021.
Even though I haven't read any of the previous books, I did manage to get the gist of who and what the main characters are like. The one thing that I was not sure about was Gemma and detective Ryan's relationship. Apparently, their romantic relationship is an on-off-on affair as hinted and going by how they interacted in this book, I don't seem to have much hope for them. I found it weird and hypocritical that Ryan is mostly aloof and indifferent towards Gemma and always telling her not to butt in the official investigation but is ever ready to get any information from her when she comes across any clues or leads. Not too sure about this pairing.
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Crooked Lane Books and the author Vicki Delany for the e-Arc of the book. I just discovered that the author Vicki Delany also writes as Eva Gates.
The book was published on 12th January 2021.
November 22, 2020
3.75* Gemma Doyle insists that she's not a consulting detective, but the folks in her small town of West London know she's as close as. The proprietress of the Sherlock Holmes themed book store, she accidentally found the cat that 11 yr old Lauren said was missing. Then Lauren asked for help in proving her mother innocent of murder. She can't very well refuse, now can she? So we get this enjoyable, easy to read cozy mystery. I like the setting and the characters. Appreciate the dogs and cats that our characters have too. While this is the 6th book in this series, it's only the 2nd one I've read. Don't think one really has to read it all in a row. It does reference some incident from months ago that I presumed was detailed in previous books. But it really has no bearing to what happens here. Recommended for Holmes-loving cozy fans.
March 11, 2021
West London, Cape Cod. Present Day. Vicki Delaney’s A Curious Incident (Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery #6) finds Gemma and all who attended The Sherlock Holmes Convention in London in January with her back in West London, and the main topic being discussed is the upcoming flower garden competition.that is being sponsored by the West London Garden Club. While in her Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium, an 10 year old girl approaches Gemma, a person who has Sherlockian detective skills and had assisted the WLPD various times, with hopes the Gemma can find her all white cat, Snowball. “I am not a consulting detective.” Gemma tells Lauren, the 10 year old girl. It appears that some local people have been discussing Gemma ‘s ‘talents’. When Gemma goes home at day’s end to walk Violet, Violet dragged Gemma to a neighbor’s shed. Gemma pushes the shed’s door open, and there she sees Snowball. Problem solved. Lauren is thrilled and convinced Gemma is truly a detective. Then: the night before the garden competition, Lauren’s mother’s gorgeous garden is viciously destroyed, and Sheila Tierney marches to Anna Wenrworth accusing Anna of Sheila’s garden destruction. They even come to blows. Lauren is scared for her mom and asks Gemma to investigate, but there is more going on than Lauren realizes. With WLPD and Gemma’s powers of observation, “A Curious Incident” leads everyone to the murderer/ destroyer. 4 stars.
April 2, 2021
This novel was a pleasant evening's reading. Even if Gemma Doyle has fallen back into the habitual ruts of her life. After the last book, with its diversion to good old London, we're back to the small town, the bookstore, the bakery, and to the animosity of Detective Estrada. At least there's less page time given to meetings between Gemma and Jayne in the bakery and less active poking into police investigations. Gemma mostly relies on the basic sources available to civilians. She can go to restaurants, pay visits to acquaintances, and fraternize with her neighbours without incurring the wrath of Estrada or the disappointment of her detective boyfriend, Ryan.
I really enjoyed the 11 year old Lauren's presence in this volume. It gave Delany a way to make Gemma a bit softer, less completely logical. I hope Lauren shows up in future books, if there are any. Gemma and Ryan haven't made any future plans yet, so I assume there will be at least one more installment to get them hitched.
These books are light, fluffy cozy mysteries (which I am usually allergic to), but for some reason I am invested in what happens in Gemma Doyle's life. (Although I do mix up details of this series with Delany's Year Round Christmas series which has so many similarities!)
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
I really enjoyed the 11 year old Lauren's presence in this volume. It gave Delany a way to make Gemma a bit softer, less completely logical. I hope Lauren shows up in future books, if there are any. Gemma and Ryan haven't made any future plans yet, so I assume there will be at least one more installment to get them hitched.
These books are light, fluffy cozy mysteries (which I am usually allergic to), but for some reason I am invested in what happens in Gemma Doyle's life. (Although I do mix up details of this series with Delany's Year Round Christmas series which has so many similarities!)
Cross posted at my blog:
https://wanda-thenextfifty.blogspot.c...
January 11, 2021
Gemma Doyle owns a Sherlock Holmes themed bookshop, she often stumbles across the crimes of the town of West London on Cape Cod causing discontent among the police force.
In this sixth installment of A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series Gemma decides to help a young girl, Lauren, to clear her mother of murder charges.
The dead body of Anna, a great and well known gardener is found in the darkest part of the park. Without any witness and any evidences the detectives look in the victim’s life and they find out that Anna has fought with a fellow gardener the morning of the murder so all suspicion falls on Sheila. Has Sheila really murdered her ex best friend? Will Gemma succeed to solve this intricate case?
A Curious Incident was an enjoyable novel with a good mystery.
I liked the setting and the plot and the characters. Gemma is a nice, witty character that made me smile throughout the book and the side characters also add depth to the story.
The only thing I couldn't make up an opinion over is Gemma's love relationship with the detective Ryan Ashburton but I'm curious enough to know more about them to keep reading this series, cheering for their happily ever after.
Don't worry if you haven't read the previous books in the series you can easily follow the story because a new mystery is solved at the end of every book.
August 31, 2020
Gemma is keeping busy in the emporium when she is asked to "take on" a private case since she has had such good luck in the past helping solve cases. As much as she doesn't want to get involved, it seems she is destined to be dragged into this one too! The characters have really blossomed in this series and you find yourself not only wanting to like them, but actually connecting with them. Connecting with characters makes the plot that much better for the reader and I'm happy to say that this series has gotten there! This is my favorite book of the series so far as you start to see Gemma as a human rather than a mechanical machine. Even the side characters are extremely well developed and you definitely either dislike/like as the author intends. I'm quite intrigued to see where the characters go next!
September 3, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Is Gemma Doyle a Consulting Detective? A lot of people sure think so. Including 10-year-old Lauren Tierney who wants Gemma to find her missing cat which she did with a big assist from her dog Violet. So when her mother needs help Lauren comes back to Gemma. Her mother, Sheila, is part of the Garden Club and was predicted to take home the trophy but someone had ripped her garden to shreds a few hours before the competition was to begin. She knows Anna Wentworth, her former friend and gardening partner is the one that vandalized her garden. She tracks the woman down and voices loudly her outrage, the two had to be separated before punches were thrown and hair was pulled. Later Anna Wentworth is found dead and Sheila is the prime suspect. So Lauren begs Gemma to save her mom. Ryan Ashburton, Gemma’s detective boyfriend isn’t happy when Gemma and her best friend Jayne start investigating and find there is something very curious about the whole incident.
Vicki Delany creates such strong characters. They are well-developed and continue to grow. Gemma’s relationship with Lauren was a great addition. We learned more about Gemma and are introduced to Lauren who really needs a person like Gemma in her life. I think Lauren has helped soften Gemma’s staunch behavior. Her relationship with Ryan was different this time, he had a few iffy moments that were troubling. I had liked them as a couple but now I am on the fence. I do enjoy Gemma’s neighbor Mrs. Ramsbatten, she has lived a very interesting life. The other new characters in this story developed nicely over the course of this story too.
The mystery was very well-plotted and written. Gemma really has a knack for piecing the clues together or twisting them as the case may be. Very like Sherlock Holmes. She asks the right questions and notices things other people miss. I am always delighted to tag along as she investigates. This time I was kept guessing right up to the end.
I appreciate Ms. Delany’s descriptive writing style. She sets a scene with an expert hand. It is so easy to visualize Gemma’s Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium and Jayne’s Mrs. Hudson’s Tea Room. She also really brings life to her characters. They feel so genuine.
A Curious Incident is a wonderful addition to this series. I was entertained from the first page to the last.
Now, I am curious to see what these fantastic characters will get involved in next. A Three Book Problem is screaming at me from my TBR stacks. I promise to get to it soon.
Is Gemma Doyle a Consulting Detective? A lot of people sure think so. Including 10-year-old Lauren Tierney who wants Gemma to find her missing cat which she did with a big assist from her dog Violet. So when her mother needs help Lauren comes back to Gemma. Her mother, Sheila, is part of the Garden Club and was predicted to take home the trophy but someone had ripped her garden to shreds a few hours before the competition was to begin. She knows Anna Wentworth, her former friend and gardening partner is the one that vandalized her garden. She tracks the woman down and voices loudly her outrage, the two had to be separated before punches were thrown and hair was pulled. Later Anna Wentworth is found dead and Sheila is the prime suspect. So Lauren begs Gemma to save her mom. Ryan Ashburton, Gemma’s detective boyfriend isn’t happy when Gemma and her best friend Jayne start investigating and find there is something very curious about the whole incident.
Vicki Delany creates such strong characters. They are well-developed and continue to grow. Gemma’s relationship with Lauren was a great addition. We learned more about Gemma and are introduced to Lauren who really needs a person like Gemma in her life. I think Lauren has helped soften Gemma’s staunch behavior. Her relationship with Ryan was different this time, he had a few iffy moments that were troubling. I had liked them as a couple but now I am on the fence. I do enjoy Gemma’s neighbor Mrs. Ramsbatten, she has lived a very interesting life. The other new characters in this story developed nicely over the course of this story too.
The mystery was very well-plotted and written. Gemma really has a knack for piecing the clues together or twisting them as the case may be. Very like Sherlock Holmes. She asks the right questions and notices things other people miss. I am always delighted to tag along as she investigates. This time I was kept guessing right up to the end.
I appreciate Ms. Delany’s descriptive writing style. She sets a scene with an expert hand. It is so easy to visualize Gemma’s Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium and Jayne’s Mrs. Hudson’s Tea Room. She also really brings life to her characters. They feel so genuine.
A Curious Incident is a wonderful addition to this series. I was entertained from the first page to the last.
Now, I am curious to see what these fantastic characters will get involved in next. A Three Book Problem is screaming at me from my TBR stacks. I promise to get to it soon.
February 16, 2021
My favorite book in this wonderful series! Loved the storyline with Gemma & Lauren(such a wonderful character...a mini-Gemma!).
December 24, 2020
This was a very good read. It would have been a five star read for me if not for a couple little things. I tend to forget how much I like Gemma and Jayne together and it was fun to be a part of their world again. I liked the story and how Gemma isn't directly involved in the mystery [to begin with and to be fair, she WAS hired. ;-) ]. I love the addition of several new animals, an adorable 11-year old [who desperately needs Gemma as much as Gemma needs her, whether she realizes it or not] and some lovely time spent with Mrs. Ramsbatten [who is a FANTASTIC character and one we need to see much more of]. The mystery itself was good and I learned stuff about plants and flowers that I didn't know [I am much like Gemma and can kill a plant by just looking at it]. And the reveal was very good and unexpected in the way it plays out. So, all-in-all, a really good read. So why not 5 stars right?
1. I knew who the killer was very early. V E R Y early.
2. Ryan. He was very problematic for me in this book. He was flat and one-dimensional [thanks Joy for that description - it works so well here] and V E R Y inconsistent. Any time he is in the story, the story just kind of goes flat and uninteresting. He is a good character and deserves more than what he was given in this book. It was rather disappointing.
3. Louise Estrada. Look, I get that she and Gemma are never going to be friends and that Louise is always going to be caustic and I don't think it is a stretch to say, obnoxious. But she is unacceptable snotty and mean in this book. Gemma goes out of her way to not antagonize her [even compliments her at one point] and Louise responds every time in a mean and obnoxious way. It would have have been a stretch to have her be somewhat kind. It was very off-putting and just made me dislike her even more than I typically do.
All that said, it was still a very good read and I enjoyed it very much. This is absolutely one of my all-time favorite series [thanks again to Joy forshoving this at me...I mean asking me to read/start this series with her; it has been a very good one!!
Thank you to NetGalley, Vicki Delany and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
1. I knew who the killer was very early. V E R Y early.
2. Ryan. He was very problematic for me in this book. He was flat and one-dimensional [thanks Joy for that description - it works so well here] and V E R Y inconsistent. Any time he is in the story, the story just kind of goes flat and uninteresting. He is a good character and deserves more than what he was given in this book. It was rather disappointing.
3. Louise Estrada. Look, I get that she and Gemma are never going to be friends and that Louise is always going to be caustic and I don't think it is a stretch to say, obnoxious. But she is unacceptable snotty and mean in this book. Gemma goes out of her way to not antagonize her [even compliments her at one point] and Louise responds every time in a mean and obnoxious way. It would have have been a stretch to have her be somewhat kind. It was very off-putting and just made me dislike her even more than I typically do.
All that said, it was still a very good read and I enjoyed it very much. This is absolutely one of my all-time favorite series [thanks again to Joy for
Thank you to NetGalley, Vicki Delany and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2020
This is my favorite book in the series so far. The book can be enjoyed as a stand-alone mystery. The characters have continued to develop and evolve over the series. Being a fan of Sherlock Holmes, Gemma is a fun modern spin on Sherlock. I like that Gemma embraces helping the little girl. Her relationship with this young girl gives Gemma a more relatable personality. The secondary characters are realistic, relatable, and entertaining. The mystery is well-developed with several well -lace red-herrings to keep the reader engaged in the story. I recommend this book to fans of the series, Sherlock Holmes, and cozy mysteries.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
February 6, 2021
This is the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series by Vicki Delany set in West London on Cape Cod, Massachusetts featuring Gemma Doyle.
Gemma Doyle manages Great Uncle Arthur's Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium. The shop is located at 222 Baker Street and is also the home of Violet, Gemma's cocker spaniel. In addition, Gemma co-owns the adjoining shop, 'Mrs. Hudson's Tea Room', which is run by her best friend and business partner Jayne Wilson. Gemma has a reputation for being a bit of a mystery-solver, so when 11-year-old Lauren Tierney loses her kitten, Snowball, she asks Gemma for help. Gemma serendipitously locates Snowball whilst out walking Violet, much to Lauren's delight. When Lauren's mother, Sheila is accused of murdering garden club member Anna Wentworth, Lauren turns to Gemma for assistance for a second time.
Once again I'm starting a series late to the party at book six! With her kindness, resourcefulness and sassy attitude, I was pleased to be in Gemma's company. Vicki Delany has surrounded Gemma with a great supporting cast and Jayne especially is easy to warm to. Gemma and Jayne are both in relationships; Gemma is with her detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton, and Jayne's love interest is restaurateur Andy Whitehall. Of course, Violet, Gemma's lovable spaniel, deserves another mention.
The author has written a very strong mystery here too. With its great plot, the pacing is comfortable and I enjoyed trying to unearth clues alongside Gemma despite police objections. Even though I was able to figure out the identity of the killer, there were enough misdirections to keep me guessing awhile. Vicki Delany's abundant humorous touches had me chuckling and helped to make A Curious Incident a really compelling, fun read. I was totally entertained from beginning to end so bring on book #7!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Gemma Doyle manages Great Uncle Arthur's Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium. The shop is located at 222 Baker Street and is also the home of Violet, Gemma's cocker spaniel. In addition, Gemma co-owns the adjoining shop, 'Mrs. Hudson's Tea Room', which is run by her best friend and business partner Jayne Wilson. Gemma has a reputation for being a bit of a mystery-solver, so when 11-year-old Lauren Tierney loses her kitten, Snowball, she asks Gemma for help. Gemma serendipitously locates Snowball whilst out walking Violet, much to Lauren's delight. When Lauren's mother, Sheila is accused of murdering garden club member Anna Wentworth, Lauren turns to Gemma for assistance for a second time.
Once again I'm starting a series late to the party at book six! With her kindness, resourcefulness and sassy attitude, I was pleased to be in Gemma's company. Vicki Delany has surrounded Gemma with a great supporting cast and Jayne especially is easy to warm to. Gemma and Jayne are both in relationships; Gemma is with her detective boyfriend Ryan Ashburton, and Jayne's love interest is restaurateur Andy Whitehall. Of course, Violet, Gemma's lovable spaniel, deserves another mention.
The author has written a very strong mystery here too. With its great plot, the pacing is comfortable and I enjoyed trying to unearth clues alongside Gemma despite police objections. Even though I was able to figure out the identity of the killer, there were enough misdirections to keep me guessing awhile. Vicki Delany's abundant humorous touches had me chuckling and helped to make A Curious Incident a really compelling, fun read. I was totally entertained from beginning to end so bring on book #7!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
January 12, 2021
A Curious Incident by Vicki Delany is the 6th A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery. It can be read as a standalone for those new to the series or if you have missed a book or two. I thought A Curious Incident was well-written with developed characters and steady pacing. Gemma Doyle is a unique protagonist. Gemma is an Englishwoman who lives in West London, Massachusetts where she manages the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium, which she co-owns with her uncle Arthur. Gemma has a keen eye for detail. She notices things and makes connections that others miss. I enjoyed the Sherlock Holmes references in the story as well. West London is a charming small town filled with quaint shops. There is a cast of residents that suit a small town (gossipy woman who compete against each other). Lauren was a great addition to the story. She is such a sweetie. I enjoyed the interactions between Lauren and Gemma. I also love Gemma’s sweet neighbor, Mrs. Ramsbatten. She has such an interesting past. The whodunit had several suspects, a red herring, and good clues. There was one aspect of the case that I found unique. I enjoyed following Gemma as she questioned people and discovered clues. It is fascinating how her mind works. The one thing I am not a fan of is the relationship between Ryan and Gemma. I do not feel any sparks between them in this book and I did not like how Ryan treated Gemma. I am hoping someone new will come to town who will be a better match for Gemma. A Curious Incident was a delight to read. I am eager for the next book in this engaging series. A Curious Incident is an entertaining cozy mystery with a missing moggy, a troubled tween, a clever canine, a disgruntled detective, a grouchy gardener, and a snoopy shop owner.
November 21, 2020
A Curious Incident is the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series and an entertaining read. This time around, the competition between members of the garden club turns deadly, when a garden is destroyed and a member is murdered. This time around, Gemma is asked by a young girl to help prove her mother did not commit the murder. I very much enjoyed the introduction of Lauren, the niece of one of the secondary characters, and the bond that formed between her and Gemma. All of the secondary cast of characters make return appearances with some special things in store for the reader. What I found interesting is that this time around, Gemma actually tried not to investigate but rather leave the case to Ryan and Louise. However, the best-laid plans get derailed.
The mystery kept me guessing because we really don't know all of the people involved in the murder. As always, I enjoyed following Gemma as she unraveled the clues in her very logical, and straightforward manner. She has an eye for detail and an ability to take in all she sees around her, process it, and then form logical conclusions based upon all the facts. She is a unique character, but I also enjoy that she is softening a bit and somewhat less obvious to social queues.
If you are a fan of this series then I'm sure you are going to enjoy this latest mystery from author Vicki Delaney. I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through Netgalley. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.
The mystery kept me guessing because we really don't know all of the people involved in the murder. As always, I enjoyed following Gemma as she unraveled the clues in her very logical, and straightforward manner. She has an eye for detail and an ability to take in all she sees around her, process it, and then form logical conclusions based upon all the facts. She is a unique character, but I also enjoy that she is softening a bit and somewhat less obvious to social queues.
If you are a fan of this series then I'm sure you are going to enjoy this latest mystery from author Vicki Delaney. I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Crooked Lane Books, through Netgalley. The opinions and thoughts expressed are my own.
January 16, 2021
I just finished reading this book yesterday. I will be heading to the library to pick up the previous books shortly! It was that good!
What did I like? First, the main character owns a bookstore, so that's definitely a plus. Second, there are cute dogs and cats which always make me happy. But most important I just couldn't stop reading it! The characters are imaginative and interesting and the story is easy to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this cleverly written book!
What did I like? First, the main character owns a bookstore, so that's definitely a plus. Second, there are cute dogs and cats which always make me happy. But most important I just couldn't stop reading it! The characters are imaginative and interesting and the story is easy to follow.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this cleverly written book!
January 13, 2021
When I started reading A Curious Incident from noted crime writer Vicki Delany, I didn’t realize it was part of a series. After I finished reading, I learned it was the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop series. It didn’t matter. A Curious Incident is a treat for mystery readers and a non-guilty pleasure for fans of Sherlock Holmes.
Gemma Doyle is an Englishwoman who manages her great-uncle Arthur’s bookstore, Sherlock Holmes Bookshop, at 222 Baker Street in West Lincoln on Cape Cod. She’s also an amateur sleuth - she prefers “consulting detective” - who manages to get entangled in any cases that happen in the area. Police detective and boyfriend Ryan Ashburton wishes she would not get involved, and his partner Louise Estrada gets infuriated when Gemma gets caught up in their investigations.
Young Lauren Tierney asks for Gemma’s help finding her lost kitten Snowball. When Gemma stumbles upon the kitten that evening, Lauren is convinced that Gemma can solve any case. A few days later, Lauren wants to hire Gemma (for ten bucks) to clear her outspoken mother Sheila, who is the main suspect in the murder of Anna Wentworth.
On the day of the local gardening society’s judging for its top award, Sheila storms into Anna’s yards and attacks Anna, accusing her of wrecking Sheila’s garden. That night, Anna’s body is found in the woods near the neighborhood walkway. Despite promising Ryan that she will let the police handle the case, Gemma keeps getting drawn back into the investigation. While Gemma is trying to figure out who destroyed Sheila’s garden and who murdered Anna, another mystery gets added to the puzzle. Was someone trying to kill Gemma?
Fans of Sherlock Holmes will appreciate the references to Sherlock Holmes - the character, the books, and even his famous portrayer Benedict Cumberbatch. Mystery fans will enjoy the quick-paced story which captivates the reader. As additional characters are introduced, Delany provides enough clues to keep the reader guessing who committed which crimes and why. In the end, loose ends are tied up in a way that makes sense without being too obvious,
The only downside to starting with book six of the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries? Adding the previous five books to an already lengthy To Read list.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for my honest review
Gemma Doyle is an Englishwoman who manages her great-uncle Arthur’s bookstore, Sherlock Holmes Bookshop, at 222 Baker Street in West Lincoln on Cape Cod. She’s also an amateur sleuth - she prefers “consulting detective” - who manages to get entangled in any cases that happen in the area. Police detective and boyfriend Ryan Ashburton wishes she would not get involved, and his partner Louise Estrada gets infuriated when Gemma gets caught up in their investigations.
Young Lauren Tierney asks for Gemma’s help finding her lost kitten Snowball. When Gemma stumbles upon the kitten that evening, Lauren is convinced that Gemma can solve any case. A few days later, Lauren wants to hire Gemma (for ten bucks) to clear her outspoken mother Sheila, who is the main suspect in the murder of Anna Wentworth.
On the day of the local gardening society’s judging for its top award, Sheila storms into Anna’s yards and attacks Anna, accusing her of wrecking Sheila’s garden. That night, Anna’s body is found in the woods near the neighborhood walkway. Despite promising Ryan that she will let the police handle the case, Gemma keeps getting drawn back into the investigation. While Gemma is trying to figure out who destroyed Sheila’s garden and who murdered Anna, another mystery gets added to the puzzle. Was someone trying to kill Gemma?
Fans of Sherlock Holmes will appreciate the references to Sherlock Holmes - the character, the books, and even his famous portrayer Benedict Cumberbatch. Mystery fans will enjoy the quick-paced story which captivates the reader. As additional characters are introduced, Delany provides enough clues to keep the reader guessing who committed which crimes and why. In the end, loose ends are tied up in a way that makes sense without being too obvious,
The only downside to starting with book six of the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mysteries? Adding the previous five books to an already lengthy To Read list.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for my honest review
November 9, 2020
A CURIOUS INCIDENT is the sixth book in the Sherlock Bookshop Mysteries by Vicki Delany, and with this newest addition, confirms why this series is one of my favorites! Protagonist Gemma Doyle, may at times, be an abrupt quirky character and can be a bit off-putting to some. From my viewpoint though, I’ve found her to be a refreshing change from the typical amateur sleuth in cozy mysteries. And with the Sherlock Bookshop that she co-owns with her uncle, her personality fits into the character of the great detective himself: hyper-observant, methodical analyzation of facts, and no hesitation in offering opinions. That said, in this newest book, the author has expanded Gemma’s personality and shown a softer, more caring side via her interaction with 10-year-old Lauren. Plus there’s a greater interjection of humor throughout the storyline. British Gemma’s misuse of American words had me laughing several times and overall the book has a cheerful feel, despite the murder.
The story starts out with Lauren deciding she has to hire Gemma to find her cat, no matter that Gemma says she can’t do it. But Gemma’s dog, Violet, comes to the rescue and solves the case. Shortly thereafter, Lauren is back and hires Gemma to prove her mom’s innocence in a murder she’s been accused of committing. From there the reader is taken on an engaging page turner as Gemma struggles to do what’s best for Lauren and keep her detective boyfriend from getting angry over her investigations. Not only does Ms. Delany write a strong character-driven story, her well-plotted mystery is solid. With some twists and turns I didn’t see coming and plenty of suspects unearthed to keep me guessing, I was entertained with each turn of the page. I didn’t want to put it down even though I wanted to slowly savor the read since I’ll have to impatiently wait another year before the next book releases.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The story starts out with Lauren deciding she has to hire Gemma to find her cat, no matter that Gemma says she can’t do it. But Gemma’s dog, Violet, comes to the rescue and solves the case. Shortly thereafter, Lauren is back and hires Gemma to prove her mom’s innocence in a murder she’s been accused of committing. From there the reader is taken on an engaging page turner as Gemma struggles to do what’s best for Lauren and keep her detective boyfriend from getting angry over her investigations. Not only does Ms. Delany write a strong character-driven story, her well-plotted mystery is solid. With some twists and turns I didn’t see coming and plenty of suspects unearthed to keep me guessing, I was entertained with each turn of the page. I didn’t want to put it down even though I wanted to slowly savor the read since I’ll have to impatiently wait another year before the next book releases.
I was provided with an advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 11, 2023
A Curious Incident by Vicki Delany is the 6th book in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series. Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium owner, Gemma Doyle, is hired by 10 year old Lauren to help her mother who has been accused of murdering her garden club rival. I love this series and all the Sherlock Holmes references and parallels. I love that Gemma is able to think like the great detective and has exceptional observational skills and is able to use her powers of deduction and knowledge of Sherlock Holmes to solve the case. A superb mystery.
July 21, 2021
While “A Curious Incident” is part of a series (#6 in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series), I had no trouble figuring out who was who and was able to get interested quickly in the story. I did think that the idea of a bookstore specializing only in Sherlock Holmes (books about him, books about the author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, mugs, puzzles, etc.) seemed a bit odd and not a good business plan. But since the location is in a tourist town on Cape Cod, perhaps the tourist trade would be enough to keep it in business.
This story revolved around a local garden club, and jealousy between members. One of the members has her garden trashed the night before a competitive garden tour and another member is found dead. Gemma, the bookshop owner, has a reputation for being very observant, like her hero Sherlock Holmes, and gets involved in trying to figure out what happened, of course, since this is a cozy mystery series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
This story revolved around a local garden club, and jealousy between members. One of the members has her garden trashed the night before a competitive garden tour and another member is found dead. Gemma, the bookshop owner, has a reputation for being very observant, like her hero Sherlock Holmes, and gets involved in trying to figure out what happened, of course, since this is a cozy mystery series.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
December 26, 2020
Review to follow!
January 22, 2021
4.5 stars
This is the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes mystery series by Vicki Delany.
Gemma Doyle is known for her sleuthing ways. When she is hired by a young girl to prove her mother’s innocence, she finds herself perplexed. It would be an easy case for Sherlock, but her, not so much.
This reminded me a little bit of Clue. Was it Sheila in the Garden with the Trophy? Only time will tell.
This was a fun mystery to follow. You really don’t get bored with such a unique protagonist. And when you add the Sherlock stuff, I am all in.
Loving this series. Definitely time for a marathon!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the sixth book in the Sherlock Holmes mystery series by Vicki Delany.
Gemma Doyle is known for her sleuthing ways. When she is hired by a young girl to prove her mother’s innocence, she finds herself perplexed. It would be an easy case for Sherlock, but her, not so much.
This reminded me a little bit of Clue. Was it Sheila in the Garden with the Trophy? Only time will tell.
This was a fun mystery to follow. You really don’t get bored with such a unique protagonist. And when you add the Sherlock stuff, I am all in.
Loving this series. Definitely time for a marathon!
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
January 12, 2021
A Curious Incident is the 6 th book in Vicki Delanys A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series, this is one of my absolute favorite series and this book didn’t disappoint. When the garden tour turns deadly, Gemma and Jayne once again put their sleuthing skills into action, trying to clear the a mother of a young girl of the murder. The well written storyline, and charming, relatable characters make for another entertaining read by Ms. Delany.
I would like to thank Netgalley for the e-ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
I would like to thank Netgalley for the e-ARC which I voluntarily reviewed.
January 16, 2021
I really enjoy this series, Gemma is a character that grows on you. I was fascinated by her in the first book but I didn't like her at all, as time has gone on and we get to know her better Gemma has become more likable. In this book we definitely see a softer side of Gemma as she ends up promising to help a young girl, first find her kitten and then clear her Mom of a murder charge. Logic still prevails but I liked that in several different situations we see a softer side to our Sherlocken sleuth.
January 17, 2021
Well, someone has to go first with one star, it might as well be me. Surely, I can't be the only one to tell what I REALLY think? I finished only because I do not review books I don't finish and I so wanted to review this one.
1- over worked premise. You know how many mysteries I've read with a young woman who owns a store in a small town, with a boyfriend who's a police officer? Who is told by that boyfriend "Don't get involved, don't interfere," and she does anyway? And comes up with obvious things the police missed? And has a close health scare when she gets too close to the truth? Too many. This is just one more.
2- a very unlikable protagonist. Bossy, rude, short with friends, customers, and anyone else she comes in contact with. Of course, she needs to be uncontrollably nosy, even if it means breaking the law. Her boyfriend won't mind. Which leads to #3.
3- "I... lifted my leg to swing it over the crime-scene tape." pg 41
"I stopped by (the crime scene mentioned above) earlier, but Louise (a cop) didn't want my assistance." pg 54 Well, duh Gemma, you co-own a bookstore and tea shop, why would a detective what your assistance?
"I'll take him a gift. Pass me one of those books..." pg 69 Because we ALL want to take a little gift like a book to pay condolences on a husband whose wife was just murdered. "A small gift. I don't think you've read this one yet. It's rather fun and makes some original points." pg 72 Just what the man needs, a book that's "rather fun." Let's ignore the elephant in the room, his wife was just murdered! Yes, just before that she told the man she was sorry for his loss, as she stepped into his house with a "smile." Some nice lady.
When told she couldn't search someone's computer, Gemma responds, "I can, and I intend to... if David wanted to secure his information, he should have password-protected it." pg 121-122 There was no reason David or anyone else would have expected, or imagined, Gemma to be in his home office! She rummaged through the entire house, desk drawers, bedside tables, bathrooms, closets. "I"m never uncomfortable prying into people's things. If they don't want me to pry, they shouldn't get involved in murders." Right... how about we let the police do the prying, alright Gemma?
She opens a mailbox (not her own) and takes out the mail. Told, "You can't read that," she answers, "Why not?" Because, "It's someone's private mail.... I think interfering with the mail is a federal offense." "Someone who involved me in her private affairs, thus inviting me to do so." According to what law, Gemma? pg 131
I do NOT understand the raving reviews. Highly not recommended.
1- over worked premise. You know how many mysteries I've read with a young woman who owns a store in a small town, with a boyfriend who's a police officer? Who is told by that boyfriend "Don't get involved, don't interfere," and she does anyway? And comes up with obvious things the police missed? And has a close health scare when she gets too close to the truth? Too many. This is just one more.
2- a very unlikable protagonist. Bossy, rude, short with friends, customers, and anyone else she comes in contact with. Of course, she needs to be uncontrollably nosy, even if it means breaking the law. Her boyfriend won't mind. Which leads to #3.
3- "I... lifted my leg to swing it over the crime-scene tape." pg 41
"I stopped by (the crime scene mentioned above) earlier, but Louise (a cop) didn't want my assistance." pg 54 Well, duh Gemma, you co-own a bookstore and tea shop, why would a detective what your assistance?
"I'll take him a gift. Pass me one of those books..." pg 69 Because we ALL want to take a little gift like a book to pay condolences on a husband whose wife was just murdered. "A small gift. I don't think you've read this one yet. It's rather fun and makes some original points." pg 72 Just what the man needs, a book that's "rather fun." Let's ignore the elephant in the room, his wife was just murdered! Yes, just before that she told the man she was sorry for his loss, as she stepped into his house with a "smile." Some nice lady.
When told she couldn't search someone's computer, Gemma responds, "I can, and I intend to... if David wanted to secure his information, he should have password-protected it." pg 121-122 There was no reason David or anyone else would have expected, or imagined, Gemma to be in his home office! She rummaged through the entire house, desk drawers, bedside tables, bathrooms, closets. "I"m never uncomfortable prying into people's things. If they don't want me to pry, they shouldn't get involved in murders." Right... how about we let the police do the prying, alright Gemma?
She opens a mailbox (not her own) and takes out the mail. Told, "You can't read that," she answers, "Why not?" Because, "It's someone's private mail.... I think interfering with the mail is a federal offense." "Someone who involved me in her private affairs, thus inviting me to do so." According to what law, Gemma? pg 131
I do NOT understand the raving reviews. Highly not recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 7, 2022
Am I the only one that sees that this series is practically a carbon copy of the books Ms. Delaney writes under the name Eva Gates? Both main characters work with books, have a cat, have a nemesis/frenemy named Louise, have a bestie whose name starts with J who is a baker and has a significant other who owns a restaurant. Additionally both mains are romantically involved with a civil servant [Mayor/Chief Detective] and twice this author has had her character find a clue by looking in a mailbox with it's flag up indicating a delivery. Everyone knows the flag up means the resident is posting mail, after a delivery the flag would be down.
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