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St. Marin's Cozy Mystery #4
Plotted For Murder
She has always said if she was running, it’s because she was being chased. That’s never been more true.
It's Autumn, bookstore owner Harvey Beckett’s favorite time of year, and she's most excited about two things – her bookshop's float in the annual Harvest Parade and pumpkin everything. But when her best friend Mart finds the body of her running coach and high school gym teacher behind the bleachers one fall morning, Harvey becomes enthralled in a mystery that uncovers their quaint town's darkest secrets.
When Harvey's curiosity gets the best of her, she and her pup Mayhem find that maybe there are just some secrets better left undiscovered.
It's Autumn, bookstore owner Harvey Beckett’s favorite time of year, and she's most excited about two things – her bookshop's float in the annual Harvest Parade and pumpkin everything. But when her best friend Mart finds the body of her running coach and high school gym teacher behind the bleachers one fall morning, Harvey becomes enthralled in a mystery that uncovers their quaint town's darkest secrets.
When Harvey's curiosity gets the best of her, she and her pup Mayhem find that maybe there are just some secrets better left undiscovered.
204 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 5, 2020
190 people are currently reading
245 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
November 4, 2022
3.5 ⭐️ A cosy murder mystery set in a small town in autumn with a dog mum who owns a bookstore - perfect!
July 13, 2020
I received an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) of this book from the author. I wasn't a big fan of this book. I don't believe the author presented a realistic story.
Believability is probably the most important criteria for any book I read. The characters were falling all over each other in such a way that they came off as phony to me. I couldn't connect with the characters or the town. I've never stumbled across a network of people or a town dripping in perfection as in this book.
Believability is probably the most important criteria for any book I read. The characters were falling all over each other in such a way that they came off as phony to me. I couldn't connect with the characters or the town. I've never stumbled across a network of people or a town dripping in perfection as in this book.
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July 1, 2020I was given an ARC of Plotted For Murder. I had already read all the previous books in this series, so it was exciting to get to read an advance copy. I read it in two sittings because, for one, I had to sleep sometime, and for another, it was an interesting and exciting story. As with the other books in the series, the characters are just super nice and kind. Not so bad a thing, these days. The story focuses on sexual assault. Not in a graphic way, but it does get your attention, as it should. There should be an actual searchlight shone on this subject. The author brings up Anita Hill. I remember well when she was in the news and, even though I wasn't all that old, I remember being outraged that they actually didn't believe her and accused her of trying to ruin "that man's" reputation. That made me so mad! It still does, years later. This is a subject that needs a lot more attention, and I'm happy the author stepped up in the way she has. It's still a nice town, full of good people, but the story shows that sometimes bad things happen to good people. Don't worry that the story is a "downer" though. It's not. I enjoyed this book and I recommend it highly. Can't wait for the next!
July 2, 2020
I received an ARC from the author. It was the first I’ve read in this series and I loved it! Harvey has a bookshop and cafe and is friendly with the other merchants in town as they plan the Harvest Festival and Parade (including themed floats by the merchants). Harvey and her roommate, Mart, are enlisted to help out at the RAINN (Rape Assault Incest a National Network) fundraiser after the parade. Aside from the great characters and fun they have together, in this book they are dealing with the issue of violence against women (including the harassment, stalking and rape), and the long-lasting emotional and psychological effects it has on the victims. There are no explicit scenes described but Bookens deals with this topic in a gentle, yet straightforward manner. There are plenty of scenes about the friendly animals in the story and their antics to add a lighter touch. I also appreciated the Hotline and RAINN information at the end of the book.
August 2, 2020
A COZY MYSTERY THAT DEVIATES FROM THE "LIGHT" SIDE OF COZIES TO INCLUDE SOME
SERIOUS TALK ABOUT SEXUAL AND IT'S EFFECTS. THOUGHT-PROVOKING AND HEARTFELT, THIS UNEXPECTED STORY IS WONDERFULLY WRITTEN AND SHINES A MUCH NEEDED LIGHT ON A CONTROVERSIAL TOPIC. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
THIS IS AN ARC BOOK, AND THIS IS MY FREELY AND HONESTLY GIVEN REVIEW.
SERIOUS TALK ABOUT SEXUAL AND IT'S EFFECTS. THOUGHT-PROVOKING AND HEARTFELT, THIS UNEXPECTED STORY IS WONDERFULLY WRITTEN AND SHINES A MUCH NEEDED LIGHT ON A CONTROVERSIAL TOPIC. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
THIS IS AN ARC BOOK, AND THIS IS MY FREELY AND HONESTLY GIVEN REVIEW.
August 7, 2020
Oh my goodness, another great book by ACF Bookens. As usual, I couldn’t put this book down. The story was so enthralling and literally kept me wondering who the killer was until the very end. If you’re a fan of the previous books in this series, or you’re new to this series, either way you will want to run right out and read this.
July 1, 2020
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read this ARC, this is my honest review. I enjoyed catching up with the characters in St. Marin, as this book is the fourth in a series. I have read the other books so this was like checking in with old friends. I am not sure how easy it would be to start reading with this book, only because some of the characters and how they relate to one another might be confusing at first. The main setting is a small town book store, which I find very appealing. There is a murder and friends come together to solve it. This book also deals gently with the topic of sexual assault, not graphically, but in an awareness, supporting way.
July 31, 2020
I received a free advance review copy of this book and am voluntarily providing my honest review. Wow, what a great story. Mart finds a dead body and so is invested in finding the killer and wants Harvey to investigate. I really recommend this book.
July 1, 2020
I have enjoyed this whole series. This book however really felt timely with some of the things that were happening. I really enjoyed it and highly recommend it. I could not put it down and finished it in one night!
July 1, 2020
This is by far the best of the series so far. Well developed characters, a fast paced story, and a bookstore setting made this a hard book to put down. I did figure out who the killer was partway through but not what his motivation was, however it didn’t deter from the story at all.
July 24, 2020
Wow. These stories just keep getting better and better. This time it is fall and the parade is about to happen. As expected, another dead body shows up and nobody liked him. The list of suspects is long. While investigating, it is discovered the dead man harassed a lot of women. The subject is handled very well throughout the story. By the end, the murdered is caught, money is raised to support harassed women, and a few surprises. Can’t wait for the next book.
July 23, 2020
I received an ARC from the author and am so glad I did. This was my first read in the series. Had no trouble jumping in here there was just enough back story of characters I wasn't lost . I want a bookstore and cafe just like Harvey's and Rocky's in my town. Some red herrings twists and turns kept the story interesting. I will be going back to the beginning reread this one so iam set for the next
July 13, 2020
A good read with a timely topic and good characters.
June 29, 2020
I received this book as I’m an ARC reader.
Boy, I did not want to put it down last night, but, I had to go to sleep! An amazing sequence of events kept me in suspense most of the time. There is also the lovely sequences with the various dogs & the cat that Harvey & Mart own. I’d love to own a bookshop, too. Not surprised I enjoyed the book.
Boy, I did not want to put it down last night, but, I had to go to sleep! An amazing sequence of events kept me in suspense most of the time. There is also the lovely sequences with the various dogs & the cat that Harvey & Mart own. I’d love to own a bookshop, too. Not surprised I enjoyed the book.
August 25, 2022
Congratulations on raising another topic of concern and weaving a great story around it. A serious topic that raises its ugly head regularly and needs to be addressed. Harvey and her friends take things in their stride as usual and help in bringing the culprits to justice after a body is found in the alley next to Harvery's bookstore. A great read.
December 30, 2023
I really enjoy this author's books and the St. Marin's Cozy Mystery series is the only one I am not up to date with yet, so I am still working my way through this one. And I decided this was the perfect time to pick up book 4 as I was in the mood for a good cozy mystery. Plotted for Murder definitely delivered.
I really like reading abut Harvey, her daily life and job as well as all the friends and family she has around her. It's so great to read about all these characters who are just so nice to each other and are always there to help each other out. I really like the cozy and comforting vibe of this series and I enjoyed following Harvey. The bookstore is always great to read about as well. This book also had a bit of an autumn vibe which was fun.
The mystery in this one starts when Harvey's best friend Mart stumbles upon the dead body of her running coach. Quickly they find out that lots of people had a reason to not like the coach. The mystery actually felt a bit slow to progress with not a lot of specific suspects, but it kept me guessing what had happened. I also thought it was interesting how Harvey wasn't technically investigating, but ofcourse she still found out things. And I like how the police are capable and helpful in this series. This mystery was a bit sad and dealt with some people who have done bad things, but I appreciated how the author handled the topic and kept the tone hopeful.
To summarize: I was happy to pick up this fourth book in this series. I enjoy reading about Harvey and her friends and family. I like how they're all there for each other and are always happy to help out. This book has a bit of an autumn theme as well. And there's a mystery that deals with some dark secrets. It kept me guessing about who had done it, but it all made sense at the end. I felt the author handled the sensitive topics well and kept the tone hopeful. I look forward to the next one!
I really like reading abut Harvey, her daily life and job as well as all the friends and family she has around her. It's so great to read about all these characters who are just so nice to each other and are always there to help each other out. I really like the cozy and comforting vibe of this series and I enjoyed following Harvey. The bookstore is always great to read about as well. This book also had a bit of an autumn vibe which was fun.
The mystery in this one starts when Harvey's best friend Mart stumbles upon the dead body of her running coach. Quickly they find out that lots of people had a reason to not like the coach. The mystery actually felt a bit slow to progress with not a lot of specific suspects, but it kept me guessing what had happened. I also thought it was interesting how Harvey wasn't technically investigating, but ofcourse she still found out things. And I like how the police are capable and helpful in this series. This mystery was a bit sad and dealt with some people who have done bad things, but I appreciated how the author handled the topic and kept the tone hopeful.
To summarize: I was happy to pick up this fourth book in this series. I enjoy reading about Harvey and her friends and family. I like how they're all there for each other and are always happy to help out. This book has a bit of an autumn theme as well. And there's a mystery that deals with some dark secrets. It kept me guessing about who had done it, but it all made sense at the end. I felt the author handled the sensitive topics well and kept the tone hopeful. I look forward to the next one!
July 15, 2025
"Plotted For Murder" is another fantastic addition to the series that seamlessly intertwines cozy mystery with heavy, relevant themes. Set against the backdrop of Autumn, we follow Harvey Beckett, a bookstore owner who finds herself tangled in a complex web of secrets after a shocking discovery at the Harvest Parade. The discovery of her former coach's body sends ripples through their quaint town, and Harvey's curiosity propels her deeper into a mystery that unveils startling truths.
What stands out most is the book's thoughtful exploration of sexual violence and the importance of community support for survivors. The narrative approaches this sensitive topic with simplicity and clarity, ensuring that readers grasp the significant differences that compassion and understanding can make in the lives of those affected. It’s a refreshing touch that not only captivates but also educates.
Harvey’s journey reminds us that while some secrets should remain buried, the truth has the power to heal. This installment not only entertains but also invites reflection on societal issues that resonate today. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery that packs an emotional punch, this book is a must-read.
What stands out most is the book's thoughtful exploration of sexual violence and the importance of community support for survivors. The narrative approaches this sensitive topic with simplicity and clarity, ensuring that readers grasp the significant differences that compassion and understanding can make in the lives of those affected. It’s a refreshing touch that not only captivates but also educates.
Harvey’s journey reminds us that while some secrets should remain buried, the truth has the power to heal. This installment not only entertains but also invites reflection on societal issues that resonate today. If you’re looking for a cozy mystery that packs an emotional punch, this book is a must-read.
September 11, 2025
I’m thrilled to have found this book (and the whole series)! The author deserves a big round of applause for capturing real people, you know, the kind we know or wish we had around us, while still sharing some of the harsh realities of the real world. In this book, the truth is that sexual harassment does exist and can be devastating for those affected by it. I won’t go into how the author does this, but I just want to thank them for giving readers enough credit to know that most of us can think about social issues while still enjoying a good mystery. And guess what? There’s humor, intriguing characters that seem to grow with each book, complicated family issues, friends who come to your rescue when you need them, and plenty of book talk. Oh, and did I mention the Charlie Brown-themed parade float and the adorable dogs? There’s so much going on in this book, and it’s a mix of fun, unnerving, inspiring, and it shows the importance of family and friends. If you enjoy cozy mysteries but want something a bit more complex in terms of human needs and emotions, or if you’re willing to admit that while it’s nice to lose ourselves in a book, growing from it is just as valuable, then give this one a read!
October 18, 2020
Book 4 in this book related cosy mystery set in St Marins, USA. Harvey has been in St Marins nearly a year and this time of year there is the harvest parade with floats in the town.
Together with her tight knit band of friends, Mart, her housemate; Daniel, her boyfriend; Cate and Lucas; Stephen and Walter, not guiding the furry four legged part of the gang, Mayhem, Taco and Sasquatch, owned by various members, they put together a float, Harvey wants to win the prestigious blue ribbon to display in the bookshop window for the rest of the year!
Of course, it wouldn't be a cosy mystery without a body, this time Mart, finds the body of the local school coach, dead at the running track. Over time they find out things about the man which doesn't surprise anyone why he was murdered, but the killer is on the loose, and seems to be out to hurt the ones Harvey loves most.
Sheriff Tucker is on the case, but Harvey just can't seem to stop herself from getting involved, again! This time, wil she, and her friends live to tell the tale.
I loved this book, like all the books in the series, and have given it 5 stars, and I can't wait for the next book to be released.
Together with her tight knit band of friends, Mart, her housemate; Daniel, her boyfriend; Cate and Lucas; Stephen and Walter, not guiding the furry four legged part of the gang, Mayhem, Taco and Sasquatch, owned by various members, they put together a float, Harvey wants to win the prestigious blue ribbon to display in the bookshop window for the rest of the year!
Of course, it wouldn't be a cosy mystery without a body, this time Mart, finds the body of the local school coach, dead at the running track. Over time they find out things about the man which doesn't surprise anyone why he was murdered, but the killer is on the loose, and seems to be out to hurt the ones Harvey loves most.
Sheriff Tucker is on the case, but Harvey just can't seem to stop herself from getting involved, again! This time, wil she, and her friends live to tell the tale.
I loved this book, like all the books in the series, and have given it 5 stars, and I can't wait for the next book to be released.
August 11, 2020
This makes the fourth book in this series of a small town with many different types of small town people. Now it's the running coach who had been found murdered,but why? Come to find out as Harvey gets sucked into helping the sheriff cause she just can't help herself,I guess running the bookstore just isn't keeping her busy enough.. As the story goes on the who, why but we know where ,the secrets start to come out,and they aren't very nice.. Is this why?? Follow the leads to this fantastic crime story and help everyone figure out just who did this! Did I tell you about the dogs? You have to read to find out how they help!! Ready for the next mystery crime book and how all the town people are doing and who is next in a small town who isn't suppose to have murder in it..Received a advance copy to read before it got published,thank you so much for such a fantastic series,something is always going on in a sleepy little town!!
January 18, 2023
3.5 stars
Book trigger warnings: discussions on sexual assault (no detailed descriptions) and stalking
Of course Harvey feels compelled to investigate when her best friend, Mart, finds her running coach's body on the track field. Turns out the coach isn't such a nice person and there are quite a few suspects thanks to his perpetual harassment of women. And one of those suspects includes, Tiffany, a recent transplant to St. Marin's who is also a runner.
But Mart and Harvey quickly make friends with Tiffany, finding it hard to believe that she could commit murder, even with her history with the coach.
Along their journey to find the killer, Harvey, Mart, and Tiffany participate in a fundraising event for RAINN, a support group for victims of sexual assault and talk about the climate of today's society and how it treats said victims.
Despite the heavy topic of sexual assault, ACF Bookens manages to keep this mystery cozy and somewhat light hearted.
Book trigger warnings: discussions on sexual assault (no detailed descriptions) and stalking
Of course Harvey feels compelled to investigate when her best friend, Mart, finds her running coach's body on the track field. Turns out the coach isn't such a nice person and there are quite a few suspects thanks to his perpetual harassment of women. And one of those suspects includes, Tiffany, a recent transplant to St. Marin's who is also a runner.
But Mart and Harvey quickly make friends with Tiffany, finding it hard to believe that she could commit murder, even with her history with the coach.
Along their journey to find the killer, Harvey, Mart, and Tiffany participate in a fundraising event for RAINN, a support group for victims of sexual assault and talk about the climate of today's society and how it treats said victims.
Despite the heavy topic of sexual assault, ACF Bookens manages to keep this mystery cozy and somewhat light hearted.
August 10, 2020
This was my first visit to St. Marin’s, but it won’t be my last. I was drawn into the float planning process and met many likable characters. As is common to cozy mysteries, there was a murder - the murder of a man who was disliked by many in the community, especially women. What is not so common was the inclusion of the issue of sexual harassment and its effects on women. This topic was handled most gracefully and did not detract at all from the story line. I admire the author for addressing this problem and for giving the phone number for the National Sexual Assault Telephone Hotline at the end of the book. I highly recommend this book, and I am certain to return to St. Marin’s.
Disclosure: I was given a free ARC and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.
Disclosure: I was given a free ARC and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.
August 11, 2020
Crazy small town cozy with adorable pet companions meets bookstore mystery.
Add in survivors of a variety of sexual assaults, stalking and harassment
Kinda moving and sweet. Kinda seriously scary
Particularly powerful was one bad actor who seemed like a nice, empathetic guy.
One of the most frightening things is that some of the scariest folks almost always know the answers to the questions you pose to try to keep yourself safe - they live a different truth in their moments of aggression. And if they are pathological, they seem like they believe their own lies- an amazing skill at living between suspended realities
An incredible community network mixed with unspeakable horrors
Add in survivors of a variety of sexual assaults, stalking and harassment
Kinda moving and sweet. Kinda seriously scary
Particularly powerful was one bad actor who seemed like a nice, empathetic guy.
One of the most frightening things is that some of the scariest folks almost always know the answers to the questions you pose to try to keep yourself safe - they live a different truth in their moments of aggression. And if they are pathological, they seem like they believe their own lies- an amazing skill at living between suspended realities
An incredible community network mixed with unspeakable horrors
August 11, 2020
I appreciate the way this book series always incorporates an element of social justice. In Plotted for Murder, the theme is sexual assault, so the story really carries a serious message. That said, the charming small town of St. Marin comes to life with an engaging storyline and true-to-life characters.
The St. Marin's Series is one of my favorites because it is centered around a busy "All Booked Up" bookstore, where Harvey Beckett and her friends are always helping others. With good friends, great books, loyal dogs and a mystery to solve, you really don't need anything else. But this time, there's a little extra romance in the equation. And I love a happy ending.
I was given an advance copy to read, and I truly enjoyed it.
The St. Marin's Series is one of my favorites because it is centered around a busy "All Booked Up" bookstore, where Harvey Beckett and her friends are always helping others. With good friends, great books, loyal dogs and a mystery to solve, you really don't need anything else. But this time, there's a little extra romance in the equation. And I love a happy ending.
I was given an advance copy to read, and I truly enjoyed it.
August 4, 2022
I really enjoyed the story but there were some editing issues that frustrated me. Being the 4th book in the series simple things like these shouldn’t be happening. The Sheriff’s name is Tucker Mason meaning that in the beginning when Louise (his wife) is mentioned as Louise Tucker it’s as though the author has forgotten her character’s names. Also,
Mack (Gaylen’s bull dog) suddenly being male had me going back through the previous books to verify she was female originally. I don’t understand how this kind of thing gets missed. While these things don’t make the story bad, it’s something that is hard for me to overlook. It was still a great story and The Who done it parts weren’t glaringly obvious so that is enjoyable to me. This is the reason I still gave it 4 stars.
Mack (Gaylen’s bull dog) suddenly being male had me going back through the previous books to verify she was female originally. I don’t understand how this kind of thing gets missed. While these things don’t make the story bad, it’s something that is hard for me to overlook. It was still a great story and The Who done it parts weren’t glaringly obvious so that is enjoyable to me. This is the reason I still gave it 4 stars.
May 7, 2023
Oh my how am I supposed to review this book?? It’s been months since I read it and they all start to blur together.
I never even took notes on this specific title so I have to dredge up some memories from nothing.
This book deals with topics like rape and sexual assault, which I really hate reading about as they are triggering to me, but here the whole thing ws dealt ok. I was able to stand listening to the story as maybe the whole thing was a bit too fake. The bad guy was just so cartoonishly bad that it was unbelievable, but also for me definitely easier to go through.
I could guess who the murderer was a bit too easily, but I remember that being a constant in the books of this series so I wasn’t surprised and it never really spoiled my enjoyment.
I never even took notes on this specific title so I have to dredge up some memories from nothing.
This book deals with topics like rape and sexual assault, which I really hate reading about as they are triggering to me, but here the whole thing ws dealt ok. I was able to stand listening to the story as maybe the whole thing was a bit too fake. The bad guy was just so cartoonishly bad that it was unbelievable, but also for me definitely easier to go through.
I could guess who the murderer was a bit too easily, but I remember that being a constant in the books of this series so I wasn’t surprised and it never really spoiled my enjoyment.
August 10, 2020
I was glued to this book and finished it in one sitting since I couldn't put it down. I loved all of the characters and wanted to live in the same town and become friends with all of them. At first it seemed that it had to be impossible that a murder had taken place in so nice and friendly a place. Slowly the cracks began to appear in the veneer and you realize it was more than just the murder. So many people had disliked the victim and they all had good reason to kill him but still that wasn't it either.
The police started asking questions but the answers didn't add up, some one was hiding information, but who?
The police started asking questions but the answers didn't add up, some one was hiding information, but who?
September 29, 2024
The book discusses sexual harassment but refuses to acknowledge the way Max acts also constitutes harassment.
Other than the about point I really don't have anything against the book. Everything else is tastefully done.
And I don't exactly recall in which book this is I read book 4 and 5 one after another but Max just gets way too close to Harvey, basically surprise taps on her shoulder from behind, which leads to her getting hurt , I think the ankle gets sprained. While Max doesn't do this on purpose, this is not behavior that anyone should condone.
I do not like Max. Please do something about him author.
Other than the about point I really don't have anything against the book. Everything else is tastefully done.
And I don't exactly recall in which book this is I read book 4 and 5 one after another but Max just gets way too close to Harvey, basically surprise taps on her shoulder from behind, which leads to her getting hurt , I think the ankle gets sprained. While Max doesn't do this on purpose, this is not behavior that anyone should condone.
I do not like Max. Please do something about him author.
August 6, 2020
This was an easy read. It is the 4th book in a series and I have not read the previous books. There was some introduction to the characters, but there were a lot of characters and it was difficult for me to keep track of all of the names, without having read the previous stories. I felt like there was not a lot of suspense as she searched for the murderer at first. Towards the end, the book was much more engaging and captivating. It was an easy and relaxing read, so it definitely fits the cozy mystery category!
August 8, 2020
Mart finds a the dead body of her running coach. The coach had made many enemies by the time he was killed. Harvey promises to not get involved with the investigation. That is not happening, she ends up getting involved in trying to solve the murder. I did not guess who the culprit was at all. I took the ending of the story to figure out all the clues that I had missed. It is a good story to use your little gray cells (hercule poirot), I enjoyed this book. I was given a free copy of this book at my request and this is my honest review.
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