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Daisy Thorne Mystery #1
Death at a Country Mansion
“First in a new series…this lively cozy has glamour, intrigue, and romance.” – Booklist
Fans of Agatha Christie won’t want to miss this delightful new mystery set in the charming village of Edgemead in Surrey, England, where you’ll find the latest styles, the juiciest gossip — and the most tantalizing murder clues…
No one would ever accuse famous opera star Dame Serena Levanté of lacking a flare for the dramatic. Unfortunately, it’s curtains down on the dysfunctional diva when she’s found dead at the bottom of a staircase in her elegant home. Solving an opera singer’s murder may not be the typical hairdresser’s aria of expertise. But Dame Serena was the mother of Daisy’s best friend Floria, so Daisy must do-or-dye her best to get to the roots of the case.
When a priceless Modigliani painting in the house is reported missing, the mystery gets even more tangled. Even though the gruff but handsome Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness tells the stylist to stay out of his hair, Daisy is determined to make sure the killer faces a stern makeover—behind bars.
“A promising debut with scads of interesting characters, a spirited heroine, and a hint of romance.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Enjoyable…will appeal to readers of Elizabeth J. Duncan’s 'Penny Brannigan' mysteries.” —Library Journal
“Death at a Country Mansion has more twists than a French braid.” —Sherry Harris
“If you enjoy British manor houses, a touch of budding romance, and a good mystery (like I do), I highly recommend Death at a Country Mansion.” —Vikki Walton
“A little romance, a little art history, and a gorgeous mansion . . . a page-turner that is fun and intriguing.” —ACF Bookens
Fans of Agatha Christie won’t want to miss this delightful new mystery set in the charming village of Edgemead in Surrey, England, where you’ll find the latest styles, the juiciest gossip — and the most tantalizing murder clues…
No one would ever accuse famous opera star Dame Serena Levanté of lacking a flare for the dramatic. Unfortunately, it’s curtains down on the dysfunctional diva when she’s found dead at the bottom of a staircase in her elegant home. Solving an opera singer’s murder may not be the typical hairdresser’s aria of expertise. But Dame Serena was the mother of Daisy’s best friend Floria, so Daisy must do-or-dye her best to get to the roots of the case.
When a priceless Modigliani painting in the house is reported missing, the mystery gets even more tangled. Even though the gruff but handsome Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness tells the stylist to stay out of his hair, Daisy is determined to make sure the killer faces a stern makeover—behind bars.
“A promising debut with scads of interesting characters, a spirited heroine, and a hint of romance.” — Kirkus Reviews
“Enjoyable…will appeal to readers of Elizabeth J. Duncan’s 'Penny Brannigan' mysteries.” —Library Journal
“Death at a Country Mansion has more twists than a French braid.” —Sherry Harris
“If you enjoy British manor houses, a touch of budding romance, and a good mystery (like I do), I highly recommend Death at a Country Mansion.” —Vikki Walton
“A little romance, a little art history, and a gorgeous mansion . . . a page-turner that is fun and intriguing.” —ACF Bookens
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 1, 2020
122 people are currently reading
1447 people want to read
About the author
Louise R. Innes
6 books142 followersLouise R. Innes is an English cozy mystery author and creator of the Daisy Thorne and Little Flower Shop cozy mysteries series.
She lives in beautiful Surrey, in a village not unlike the one in her books. When she's not writing, she can be found traipsing through the parks or kayaking on the River Thames.
Download a free cozy from her website: louiseroseinnes.com/cozy-mysteries.
She lives in beautiful Surrey, in a village not unlike the one in her books. When she's not writing, she can be found traipsing through the parks or kayaking on the River Thames.
Download a free cozy from her website: louiseroseinnes.com/cozy-mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
November 23, 2020
4.5 stars
I thought this was a wonderful start to a new series. Set in a small English village, our protagonist, Daisy Thorne, owns a hair salon and is studying forensic psychology in her free time. When her best friend's mother, a famous opera singer, is murdered, Daisy teams up with the detective on the case to find the culprit.
A fun mystery, with some surprising twists along the way. I loved the English countryside setting and the atmosphere at the hair salon. Daisy is a smart, outgoing, and genuine protagonist. I enjoyed getting to know her and can't wait to see what's in store for her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this was a wonderful start to a new series. Set in a small English village, our protagonist, Daisy Thorne, owns a hair salon and is studying forensic psychology in her free time. When her best friend's mother, a famous opera singer, is murdered, Daisy teams up with the detective on the case to find the culprit.
A fun mystery, with some surprising twists along the way. I loved the English countryside setting and the atmosphere at the hair salon. Daisy is a smart, outgoing, and genuine protagonist. I enjoyed getting to know her and can't wait to see what's in store for her.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 12, 2020
Daisy Thorne is a hair stylist. Not typically someone who jumps into murder investigations. But Daisy also has an interest in forensic psychology. Her after work studies actually come in handy when her best friend's mother is found dead in her country home. The deceased was a very flamboyant diva -- a former opera star who definitely made an impression on those around her. But...who wanted her dead??
This first book in the Daisy Thorne mystery series actually caught me by surprise. I expected the usual simple cozy set in an English village, but the plot actually had a lot going on. There were several twists and turns I didn't expect. The mystery moves along at a nice pace. I liked the village and the local characters. Daisy is an intelligent and interesting main character. And the plot had more going on than most cozies.
Great start to a new series! I will definitely be reading more!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
This first book in the Daisy Thorne mystery series actually caught me by surprise. I expected the usual simple cozy set in an English village, but the plot actually had a lot going on. There were several twists and turns I didn't expect. The mystery moves along at a nice pace. I liked the village and the local characters. Daisy is an intelligent and interesting main character. And the plot had more going on than most cozies.
Great start to a new series! I will definitely be reading more!
**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Kensington Books. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**
December 5, 2020
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Daisy Thorne owns the hair salon, Oh La La in Edgemead England. She is also studying forensic psychology in her spare time. Both come in handy when her best friend, Floria’s mother is found dead at the foot of the staircase of her country mansion. Dame Serena Levanté is a famous opera singer/diva with three ex-husbands and one husband who has just left her for another woman. Last seen, Serena was drowning her sorrows with enough alcohol that her tumbling to her death is easily believable but it is definitely murder. When they notice a famous Modigliani painting is missing the case gets even more intriguing and Daisy vows to cut through the clues and curl the killer right into a jail cell.
Daisy is a people person with the perfect profession. Everyone knows to find the latest news and gossip you head to the beauty salon. Her studies in forensic psychology are teaching her how to read people even better. She is curious, smart, and loyal to her friends. All these things make Daisy Thorne a fantastic protagonist. They also make her the complete opposite of our victim, Dame Serena.
Ms. Innes has filled the story with dynamic and diverse supporting characters as well. From the elderly couple that takes care of the residents and grounds of the country mansion to Serena’s husbands, the staff at Oh La La, the hunky Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness, and more readers are treated to well-crafted characters left with plenty of room to grow.
This mystery was very complicated with surprises and twists. It starts out quickly with the dead body and the pace remains brisk throughout. It was a lot of fun to follow along with Daisy as she worked her way through all the clues. I had given a complete pass on the actual killer until late in the book so I clearly missed something along the way.
Death at a Country Mansion was an enjoyable escape across the pond. I can’t wait to visit Edgemead again soon. Death at the Salon is set to be released on March 30, 2021.
Daisy Thorne owns the hair salon, Oh La La in Edgemead England. She is also studying forensic psychology in her spare time. Both come in handy when her best friend, Floria’s mother is found dead at the foot of the staircase of her country mansion. Dame Serena Levanté is a famous opera singer/diva with three ex-husbands and one husband who has just left her for another woman. Last seen, Serena was drowning her sorrows with enough alcohol that her tumbling to her death is easily believable but it is definitely murder. When they notice a famous Modigliani painting is missing the case gets even more intriguing and Daisy vows to cut through the clues and curl the killer right into a jail cell.
Daisy is a people person with the perfect profession. Everyone knows to find the latest news and gossip you head to the beauty salon. Her studies in forensic psychology are teaching her how to read people even better. She is curious, smart, and loyal to her friends. All these things make Daisy Thorne a fantastic protagonist. They also make her the complete opposite of our victim, Dame Serena.
Ms. Innes has filled the story with dynamic and diverse supporting characters as well. From the elderly couple that takes care of the residents and grounds of the country mansion to Serena’s husbands, the staff at Oh La La, the hunky Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness, and more readers are treated to well-crafted characters left with plenty of room to grow.
This mystery was very complicated with surprises and twists. It starts out quickly with the dead body and the pace remains brisk throughout. It was a lot of fun to follow along with Daisy as she worked her way through all the clues. I had given a complete pass on the actual killer until late in the book so I clearly missed something along the way.
Death at a Country Mansion was an enjoyable escape across the pond. I can’t wait to visit Edgemead again soon. Death at the Salon is set to be released on March 30, 2021.
November 19, 2020
I enjoy reading a contemporary novel based in England because I enjoy the dialogue, different lingo, and characters. Death at a Country Mansion fits the bill and has a great mystery to solve to boot.
Daisy Thorne owns a hair salon, Oh La La in a small village called Edgemead, that she worked hard to make a success, no thanks to her absent parents. Her best friend Floria is from a similar background in that her mother never has paid her much attention. Floria's mother is a famous opera star who is a self centered person that is not liked by many and when she is found dead in her mansion of a home, it appears to be a robbery gone wrong since a valuable painting is missing. But it is changed to murder when the body is examined. There was not a break-in so she must have known her killer, someone who had a key or she let in. She was highly intoxicated, so the latter is probably not the case. There is a plethora of people who fall in the suspect pool, including three ex-husbands and one on the way out the door among others.
Floria is quite the organizer and works hard to make the memorial a special event but things are really thrown into a spin when it is discovered that she has three illegitimate sisters. What a surprise that is!
Daisy is studying forensic psychology, hoping to help as a profiler with a police department. She makes friends with the handsome Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness and gives him information that she gleams through gossip at her hair salon and inside knowledge about the family. There are many surprises in the story that kept me interested to the end. I enjoyed the variety of well developed characters and setting. I need to go back and read the prequel novella and I look forward to the next story. I recommend this for all mystery lovers.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
Daisy Thorne owns a hair salon, Oh La La in a small village called Edgemead, that she worked hard to make a success, no thanks to her absent parents. Her best friend Floria is from a similar background in that her mother never has paid her much attention. Floria's mother is a famous opera star who is a self centered person that is not liked by many and when she is found dead in her mansion of a home, it appears to be a robbery gone wrong since a valuable painting is missing. But it is changed to murder when the body is examined. There was not a break-in so she must have known her killer, someone who had a key or she let in. She was highly intoxicated, so the latter is probably not the case. There is a plethora of people who fall in the suspect pool, including three ex-husbands and one on the way out the door among others.
Floria is quite the organizer and works hard to make the memorial a special event but things are really thrown into a spin when it is discovered that she has three illegitimate sisters. What a surprise that is!
Daisy is studying forensic psychology, hoping to help as a profiler with a police department. She makes friends with the handsome Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness and gives him information that she gleams through gossip at her hair salon and inside knowledge about the family. There are many surprises in the story that kept me interested to the end. I enjoyed the variety of well developed characters and setting. I need to go back and read the prequel novella and I look forward to the next story. I recommend this for all mystery lovers.
I received a complimentary ARC from Kensington Books through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine only.
November 2, 2020
Ms. Innes has written a well-crafted cozy mystery that swept me up into Edgemead,England and didn't let go until the end.
Daisy Thorne owns the local hair salon, Ooh La La, and is studying forensic psychology in her off hours. I liked Daisy from the beginning with her devotion to her friends and staff. The secondary characters provided insight into both Daisy and Floria as the story progressed. A quickly paced plot, murder, theft and several suspects with a twist at the end that I only saw a glimmer of as I was reading made this a great cozy mystery. I'm really looking forward to more stories in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
Daisy Thorne owns the local hair salon, Ooh La La, and is studying forensic psychology in her off hours. I liked Daisy from the beginning with her devotion to her friends and staff. The secondary characters provided insight into both Daisy and Floria as the story progressed. A quickly paced plot, murder, theft and several suspects with a twist at the end that I only saw a glimmer of as I was reading made this a great cozy mystery. I'm really looking forward to more stories in this series.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
March 28, 2021
Death At A Country Mansion is the first in a new cozy mystery series. The body of a famous, unpleasant opera singer is found dead in her country mansion and Daisy Thorne, owner of a hair salon and best friend to the murdered woman's daughter, attempts to track down the killer.
It's a simple premise with all the right elements. The first chapter from the victim's perspective was excellent. Most of what followed though was a let down. The characters are mostly interesting, although I found Daisy to be annoying and insensitive at times. The detective seems to be a nice guy but I didn't feel any chemistry between him and Daisy.
It was pretty unbelievable that a detective would accept and invite help from a citizen. I probably could have got past that if the investigative process had been more interesting. Most of what they "investigated" or considered led nowhere and they still kept pursuing it. Even from the beginning the lines of questioning they considered show a lack of sleuthing ability.
The ending chapters were much more interesting. The pacing was kind of weird because if you cut out most of chapter 2 onward and go straight to the ending chapters you would have the beginnings of a good mystery. It was pretty obvious to me who the killer was and I think it's partly because it took too long to get to any action. I mean there was just not much to investigate before the main event (should have been first event) yet everyone tried to force something that wasn't there.
It's a simple premise with all the right elements. The first chapter from the victim's perspective was excellent. Most of what followed though was a let down. The characters are mostly interesting, although I found Daisy to be annoying and insensitive at times. The detective seems to be a nice guy but I didn't feel any chemistry between him and Daisy.
It was pretty unbelievable that a detective would accept and invite help from a citizen. I probably could have got past that if the investigative process had been more interesting. Most of what they "investigated" or considered led nowhere and they still kept pursuing it. Even from the beginning the lines of questioning they considered show a lack of sleuthing ability.
The ending chapters were much more interesting. The pacing was kind of weird because if you cut out most of chapter 2 onward and go straight to the ending chapters you would have the beginnings of a good mystery. It was pretty obvious to me who the killer was and I think it's partly because it took too long to get to any action. I mean there was just not much to investigate before the main event (should have been first event) yet everyone tried to force something that wasn't there.
March 8, 2021
This was a fun start to the exciting new "Daisy Thorne" cozy mystery series. Someone has done in the diva and a precious Modigliani painting has gone AWOL! There's way too many people with motive for silencing opera sensation, Dame Serena Levanté, not the least of which is her cadre of ex-husbands. Her diva-ness is more than skin deep as she uses and discards people left and right. In walks hair salon owner, Daisy Thorne, as comforting best friend to the Diva's daughter, Floria Levanté. Daisy is also working on procuring her forensic psychology degree through a correspondence course. This comes in handy as she assists Detective Inspector, Paul McGuinness, of Surrey CID, in working out the clues of this mind-boggling mystery. There also appears to be a bit of a spark igniting between these two. Only time will tell.
Author Louise R. Innes spins a fun and at times humorous yarn. The writing flows evenly through the bulk of the story, ramping up to a fierce climax and quickly tapering off. For some, the ending may feel a bit rushed. Yet, it does quickly tie up the loose ends in a pretty little bow. I can't wait to see what Ms. Innes has in store next for Miss Daisy.
I am grateful to Kensington Books for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
Author Louise R. Innes spins a fun and at times humorous yarn. The writing flows evenly through the bulk of the story, ramping up to a fierce climax and quickly tapering off. For some, the ending may feel a bit rushed. Yet, it does quickly tie up the loose ends in a pretty little bow. I can't wait to see what Ms. Innes has in store next for Miss Daisy.
I am grateful to Kensington Books for having provided a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. Their generosity, however, has not influenced this review - the words of which are mine alone.
January 20, 2021
Series debut, and it's a winner! Harking back to Agatha Christie's country estate mysteries with a modern twist. Early on, Daisy Thorne palled around with the daughter of a legendary opera star which gave her firsthand experience with the moneyed class. Now she owns a hair salon, the center for information in their small town, while studying to become a forensic psychologist. When her friend's mother is murdered, Daisy steps up and starts investigating. Intelligent and empathetic, Daisy is a fascinating character and one I am already looking to reading her next adventure. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2020
Dame Serena Levante was a world-renowned opera singer. She’s also the mother of Daisy Thorne’s best friend, Floria, so when news comes that Serena is dead, Daisy rushes to Serena’s mansion outside of the English village of Edgemead. The police quickly see that it was murder, and they believe that robbery was involved since an expensive painting is also missing from the mansion. Daisy owns the local hair salon, and it is a hub of gossip. As a result, she begins to hear things that might help the police in their quest to find out what happened. Can she get the gruff inspector to listen to her?
I wasn’t planning to read this book until I started hearing great things about it, and I’m glad I picked it up. The mystery starts out right away, and we have plenty of twists and turns. The climax wraps everything up neatly for us. Serena was the kind of woman who left behind many suspects, something I always enjoy. We don’t get to know all the suspects super well, but because we like Daisy and Floria, we care about the outcome. We meet some other regulars, and I’m looking forward to spending more time with all of the cast. There are a few things that could have been smoothed out better, including a timeline issue, but they are minor overall. The book is shorter than many today, but there wasn’t a wasted scene. Overall, this is an enjoyable debut, and I’m looking forward to visiting Daisy again soon.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
I wasn’t planning to read this book until I started hearing great things about it, and I’m glad I picked it up. The mystery starts out right away, and we have plenty of twists and turns. The climax wraps everything up neatly for us. Serena was the kind of woman who left behind many suspects, something I always enjoy. We don’t get to know all the suspects super well, but because we like Daisy and Floria, we care about the outcome. We meet some other regulars, and I’m looking forward to spending more time with all of the cast. There are a few things that could have been smoothed out better, including a timeline issue, but they are minor overall. The book is shorter than many today, but there wasn’t a wasted scene. Overall, this is an enjoyable debut, and I’m looking forward to visiting Daisy again soon.
NOTE: I received an ARC of this book.
Read my full review at Carstairs Considers.
November 16, 2020
Our story starts with Daisy, the owner of Ooh-La-La Hair Salon and her best friend, Floria, a wealthy socialite and the only child of an Opera great Dame Serena Levanté. Upon her mother's suspicious death, Floria needs her best friend Daisy's assistance in solving what really happened to her mother. Did she die in a drunken fall over the banister? And why is a priceless Modigliani missing? Why did Floria's mother have a frozen look of horror? Throw in a handsome detective, DI Paul McGuinness, and you're in for a fun and thrilling read. I love the classic country house setting, a village in Edgemead, Surrey, and the mystery was interesting to solve. The author has created a cast of likeable characters who make me look forward to reading the further adventures to come.
I would like to thank Louise R. Innes, Kennington Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I would like to thank Louise R. Innes, Kennington Books and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
October 25, 2020
I enjoyed reading Death at a County Mansion. This story is set in England and the main character runs a hair salon. I really enjoy books set in England- it's a great escape! I found this to be a fast read with plenty to keep me turning pages! I am looking forward to the next book in the series!
May 19, 2019
This is a 3.25 star read.
An entertaining and intriguing murder mystery with a host of funny, interesting characters and a protagonist I can see becoming more fully fleshed as the series progresses.
I was more than a little thrown by the cover though as it looks to be a "serious" murder mystery or police procedural as opposed to the "cozy mystery with bite" that it is.
I received a free PDF copy of this book directly from the author via a Bookfunnel giveaway. I have voluntarily chosen to review the novella and the gifting in no way influences my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
An entertaining and intriguing murder mystery with a host of funny, interesting characters and a protagonist I can see becoming more fully fleshed as the series progresses.
I was more than a little thrown by the cover though as it looks to be a "serious" murder mystery or police procedural as opposed to the "cozy mystery with bite" that it is.
I received a free PDF copy of this book directly from the author via a Bookfunnel giveaway. I have voluntarily chosen to review the novella and the gifting in no way influences my review/rating, which reflects my honest opinion.
April 3, 2021
Death at a Country Mansion is filled with interesting and quirky characters, and an opera diva to die for. Daisy is a bit hard to take at times, she is somewhat insensitive but she is also determined and loyal. The first chapter was very well written and hooked the reader right away. The setting was nice, but I could have done with a bit more info about the background characters and the hair salon.
The victim was not at all likable, which is good in many ways and we never find out how good of an opera singer she was. Although the reader doesn’t care all that much about the victim, they are vested in seeing justice done and the right person arrested for the crime. I would love to have had the murder take place at the hair salon in this first book, but that aside I felt the description of the victim’s house and murder were well done.
There are plenty of suspects, but not one that stands out more than the others. The victim’s daughter, Floria, who is also Daisy’s best friend, is likable, and readers will sympathize with her. Other suspects are not sympathetic, and you find yourself hoping they all did it just to get rid of them permanently. I felt a few of the opera singers' competitors' involvement would have made for some interesting scenes but those were not present. Having some of the suspects show up at Daisy’s hair salon would have been intriguing, but unfortunately, the author didn’t bring that into play. Maybe next time.
In the end, the killer is caught, and even though the killer’s identity or the motive may not be a big surprise to readers, it makes for an emotional scene that is worth the read. There isn’t a lot of action in Death at a Country Mansion, not enough of the hair salon, opera, or the people who work there; this story is a good start to a new series that readers will enjoy.
The victim was not at all likable, which is good in many ways and we never find out how good of an opera singer she was. Although the reader doesn’t care all that much about the victim, they are vested in seeing justice done and the right person arrested for the crime. I would love to have had the murder take place at the hair salon in this first book, but that aside I felt the description of the victim’s house and murder were well done.
There are plenty of suspects, but not one that stands out more than the others. The victim’s daughter, Floria, who is also Daisy’s best friend, is likable, and readers will sympathize with her. Other suspects are not sympathetic, and you find yourself hoping they all did it just to get rid of them permanently. I felt a few of the opera singers' competitors' involvement would have made for some interesting scenes but those were not present. Having some of the suspects show up at Daisy’s hair salon would have been intriguing, but unfortunately, the author didn’t bring that into play. Maybe next time.
In the end, the killer is caught, and even though the killer’s identity or the motive may not be a big surprise to readers, it makes for an emotional scene that is worth the read. There isn’t a lot of action in Death at a Country Mansion, not enough of the hair salon, opera, or the people who work there; this story is a good start to a new series that readers will enjoy.
November 17, 2020
This is the first in the Daisy Thorne mystery series. This is set in the English countryside and Daisy owns the Ooh La La Hair Salon (while studying forensic psychology) and her best friend is Floria daughter of Opera Dame Serena Lavante. When Floria’s mother is found dead under suspicious circumstances she asks her best friend Daisy to help her figure out what happened. Her mother fell over a bannister in her mansion and at first they think it is an accident but Floria is convinced otherwise and Inspector Paul McGuiness tells Daisy to stay out of it but when he realizes what she is studying he does let her assist. An expensive painting goes missing which confirms murder and makes things interesting. This was a good mystery and enjoyable read. I loved the setting as I do not read many cozies set in England but I look forward to the next in the series. Daisy is a great lead and her hair salon is a great place to learn all that is going on in the village. Definitely a winner.
October 27, 2020
If you like murder mysteries that are overflowing with humor and colorful characters this books for you. The story is based in England and involves the murder of a famous opera star at her mansion. You'll fall in love with Daisy, the owner of Ooh-La-La Hair Salon and her best friend, Floria, a wealthy socialite and the only child of the murdered opera singer. Things get interesting when they team up with handsome Inspector Paul. This was a cute story that was well written and fun to read. I received a pdf arc copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it.
June 28, 2024
4.75 stars !! Almost a five star but I guess whodunit but only didn’t know why. Anyways, what a great start of the series. I find it quite a bit funny how they always talking about having drinks.
September 20, 2020
This was a very good cozy. It had mystery, suspense, and humor. I excepted the story to go one way and it went completely a different direction. The ending really surprised me. It drags a little, but not enough to stop reading.( but that could have been me.) I like this book. Will read it again.
I received this book free for an honest review.
I received this book free for an honest review.
October 25, 2020
Right off the top, let it be known that I'm biased with respect to this story. It is an absolute cosy and I adore cosies!
Agatha Raisin or Miss Marple would have been perfectly at home solving this, but instead, we have Daisy Thorne. Daisy, who owns the village hair salon, is also studying forensic psychology which places her in an ideal position of being well acquainted with all the players and actually having some knowledge of criminal behaviour. Once the lead investigator realises this, he makes use of our sleuth and working together they successfully bring the case to a conclusion.
It's impossible to tell you how much I enjoyed this story other than to say it was perfection. The characters (of whom there were many) were unique. Some of them were more sympathetic than others, but they all were easily identifiable. The settings were classic cosy: a manor house and a typical English village (completely with cottages and masses and masses of flowers). And, while the plot was perhaps a little stretched, it was very readable and kept me hooked until the last word.
Agatha Raisin or Miss Marple would have been perfectly at home solving this, but instead, we have Daisy Thorne. Daisy, who owns the village hair salon, is also studying forensic psychology which places her in an ideal position of being well acquainted with all the players and actually having some knowledge of criminal behaviour. Once the lead investigator realises this, he makes use of our sleuth and working together they successfully bring the case to a conclusion.
It's impossible to tell you how much I enjoyed this story other than to say it was perfection. The characters (of whom there were many) were unique. Some of them were more sympathetic than others, but they all were easily identifiable. The settings were classic cosy: a manor house and a typical English village (completely with cottages and masses and masses of flowers). And, while the plot was perhaps a little stretched, it was very readable and kept me hooked until the last word.
November 30, 2020
The charming village of Edgemead in Surrey, England is home to hairdresser & forensic psychology student Daisy Thorne. No one would ever accuse famous opera star Dame Serena Levanté of lacking a flare for the dramatic. Unfortunately, it’s curtains down on the dysfunctional diva when she’s found dead at the bottom of a staircase in her elegant home. Solving an opera singer’s murder may not be the typical hairdresser’s aria of expertise. But Dame Serena was the mother of Daisy’s best friend Floria, so Daisy must do-or-dye her best to get to the roots of the case. When a priceless Modigliani painting in the house is reported missing, the mystery gets even more tangled. Even though the gruff but handsome Detective Inspector Paul McGuinness tells the stylist to stay out of his hair, Daisy is determined to help.
The first book in a new series & I was drawn in from the start & engrossed until the end. Strong characters & a well paced story with plenty of twists, turns & surprises. I loved Daisy who had a knack of getting people to confide in her, I also loved how her relationship with Paul changed & look forward to them locking horns again I did guess who the murderer was but not the reason why the murder was committed. A new author to me & I look forward to more books in the series, Daisy is a delight
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The first book in a new series & I was drawn in from the start & engrossed until the end. Strong characters & a well paced story with plenty of twists, turns & surprises. I loved Daisy who had a knack of getting people to confide in her, I also loved how her relationship with Paul changed & look forward to them locking horns again I did guess who the murderer was but not the reason why the murder was committed. A new author to me & I look forward to more books in the series, Daisy is a delight
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
November 24, 2020
Edgemead is a quiet English village where nothing very much changes. If you do want to discover any local gossip however, you make an appointment at the Ooh La La salon, sit back, relax, be pampered, and listen. Owner Daisy Thorne is a fan of all things psychologically forensic to the point of studying it in her spare time and loves nothing better than trying out her new found skills on whatever is happening around her.
Local celebrity Dame Serena Levanté was a world famous opera singer but as her talent and popularity wained her love of drink increased until she became almost a total recluse. Daisy's best friend, Floria, is her only child and so when the soprano is found dead in her impressive mansion she knows her inside knowledge will be invaluable. DI Paul McGuinness isn't so sure but as the star was murdered he begrudgingly includes Daisy in his investigation as the link between himself, the family and local community.
Serena would never have won mother of the year and as her secrets start to emerge Daisy finds herself drawn into a case as confusing as it is surreal. With Floria, Paul and the salon all calling on her expertise she hopes it won't be too long before justice is served.
This is an enjoyable start to a new series with likeable protagonists and a different slant on a common theme. By having Daisy interested in forensic psychology her thoughts and opinions show what is happening and why very well. I did work out whodunnit but not the reason and the big reveal was very well done. The first chapter of book two is also included which I will be looking out for in the new year.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a great start to what has the potential to be a much anticipated cosy crime series.
Local celebrity Dame Serena Levanté was a world famous opera singer but as her talent and popularity wained her love of drink increased until she became almost a total recluse. Daisy's best friend, Floria, is her only child and so when the soprano is found dead in her impressive mansion she knows her inside knowledge will be invaluable. DI Paul McGuinness isn't so sure but as the star was murdered he begrudgingly includes Daisy in his investigation as the link between himself, the family and local community.
Serena would never have won mother of the year and as her secrets start to emerge Daisy finds herself drawn into a case as confusing as it is surreal. With Floria, Paul and the salon all calling on her expertise she hopes it won't be too long before justice is served.
This is an enjoyable start to a new series with likeable protagonists and a different slant on a common theme. By having Daisy interested in forensic psychology her thoughts and opinions show what is happening and why very well. I did work out whodunnit but not the reason and the big reveal was very well done. The first chapter of book two is also included which I will be looking out for in the new year.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a great start to what has the potential to be a much anticipated cosy crime series.
October 24, 2020
This well written novel reads quickly as you decide to read one more chapter before bed. Well rounded characters make it easy to get drawn into the plot, trying your best to solve the murder of a wealthy opera singer. The protagonist, Daisy, is a witty salon owner who just happens to be best friends with the victim's daughter. Set in the English countryside, scenes between Daisy and the good-looking, gruff detective play out in your mind. Suspects rotate as new information is determined making this book hard to set down.
October 21, 2020
I received an ARC of this delightfully exciting EngliSh cozy murder mystery. Dame Serena LeVante is a wealthy woman with a past as an opera singer, one daughter, and numerous ex-husbands. When she falls to her death, it’s ruled an accident, but Fiona, her daughter doesn’t think it was. So she enlists her best friend, Daisy, who owns the Ooh-La-La Hair Salon to help find out the truth. There were many twists and turns, and a rather surprising ending. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and am looking forward to reading more from this author! Highly recommended!
October 16, 2020
Death at a Country Mansion was provided as an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
It was quite enjoyable. The story is about Dame Serena Levante who lives in Edgemead England. So, if you enjoy reading novels set in England, then this is the story for you. But, wait it gets better.
The main character has lived a very colorful life. She is an opera singer going on husband 4 when she is discovered dead. At first they think it's an accident, but soon it's obvious her death was no accident. Her daughter asks for help in figuring out who killed her mother and the adventure begins.
But, this is no simple murder with twists and turns it will keep you entertained until the very end.
Highly recommend Death at a Country Mansion. Can't wait until the next book.
It was quite enjoyable. The story is about Dame Serena Levante who lives in Edgemead England. So, if you enjoy reading novels set in England, then this is the story for you. But, wait it gets better.
The main character has lived a very colorful life. She is an opera singer going on husband 4 when she is discovered dead. At first they think it's an accident, but soon it's obvious her death was no accident. Her daughter asks for help in figuring out who killed her mother and the adventure begins.
But, this is no simple murder with twists and turns it will keep you entertained until the very end.
Highly recommend Death at a Country Mansion. Can't wait until the next book.
October 20, 2020
Enjoyable cozy mystery with the expected mystery, bit of romance, quirky characters, and no gore. I enjoyed this book as a light read set in England. There is a variety of characters that for the most part are well portrayed. The story has some twists and turns. I will look forward to reading additional books in this series when I’m looking for a light and entertaining read. I received an advance pdf copy of this book from the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 21, 2020
Death at a Country Mansion is the first book in the Daisy Thorne Mystery series and is a great start to this new series.
The characters are well depicted and interesting and the storyline kept my interest from start to finish. With murder, art theft, forgery, twists and turns, some romance, and lots of mystery, this is an excellent way to start this series. I am looking forward to reading more.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
The characters are well depicted and interesting and the storyline kept my interest from start to finish. With murder, art theft, forgery, twists and turns, some romance, and lots of mystery, this is an excellent way to start this series. I am looking forward to reading more.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
October 23, 2020
I enjoyed this easy to read book. Daisy the hairdresser with an interest in crime psychology is a good character. Her friend Floria’s mother is murdered. Now Lady Serena was not a good person & no one really liked her, but, would they kill her? The detective trying to sort everything out is strong & silent! But, he realises that Daisy is a great help. She can get people to open up & chat & of course, the gossip in the shop!! What a great help. Lots of interesting snippets finally come together.
November 16, 2020
Serena Laventa, a former Opera Diva, is murdered in her own manor. Her daughter floria and her best friend Daisy Thorne, owner of Ooh La La hair salon, try to find the killer. The police detective Paul McGuinness, finally realizes that he needs Daisy's help to solve the crime. The investigation continues and leads to another murder before the killer is unmasked. The clues lead to many possible suspects and finding the killer is not easy nor suspected. A clean mystery and an enjoyable read.
I received this book free from Net Gallery for my review of same.
I received this book free from Net Gallery for my review of same.
October 22, 2020
This book was the perfect mystery to read curled up under a blanket on rainy weekend. With Louise's talent for describe things beautifully and the comfortable pace of events, the book transports you quickly into the country setting. Caution! Will keep you up at night wanting to read just one more chapter!
October 24, 2020
When Daisy's best friend's mother is found murdered, she steps in to help solve the mystery. Owner of the Ooh-La-La hair salon, the only one in the small English Village, she hears all the latest gossip.Along with a keen sense of people skills, she helps DI Paul McGuinness solve the crime. Wonderful first book in a series. I will be reading more from this author.
November 23, 2020
I so enjoyed this wonderful new mystery series set in England. Death At A Country Mansion is set in Surry. England. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. My review opinion is my own for a early ARC for review.
Daisy owns a hair salon in her small English village and she is studying Forensic Psychology that she hopes will land her a job with the police department. Her best friend, Floria's mother is the famous opera singer, Dame Serena Lavante. When Dame Serena is found dead, Daisy and Floria want to figure out what happened. As the investigate as a team they find many village secrets abound as well as suspects that may have wanted the difficult women dead. Floria was known to not get along with her Mother so she is suspected as a possible suspect. During the investigation Daisy finds herself with a romantic interest in the detective handling the case. Daisy works with the detective to inform him of their findings and hope he will close the case against her friend and find the real suspect .
This was a nice mystery with good charcters that are all likable. The mystery was well crafted and enjoyable to conclusion. I look forward to the next in series.
Daisy owns a hair salon in her small English village and she is studying Forensic Psychology that she hopes will land her a job with the police department. Her best friend, Floria's mother is the famous opera singer, Dame Serena Lavante. When Dame Serena is found dead, Daisy and Floria want to figure out what happened. As the investigate as a team they find many village secrets abound as well as suspects that may have wanted the difficult women dead. Floria was known to not get along with her Mother so she is suspected as a possible suspect. During the investigation Daisy finds herself with a romantic interest in the detective handling the case. Daisy works with the detective to inform him of their findings and hope he will close the case against her friend and find the real suspect .
This was a nice mystery with good charcters that are all likable. The mystery was well crafted and enjoyable to conclusion. I look forward to the next in series.
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