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Hamptons Murder Mysteries #1
Death on Windmill Way: A Cozy Mystery
First book in the Hamptons Murder Mysteries cozy series! Antonia's looking for some peace and quiet... too bad she moved to the Hamptons!
Featuring the quirky chef and amateur sleuth Antonia Bingham, this new mystery book
Perfect for Fans of Denise Swanson and Louise PennyFor readers of classic murder mysteries and scenic town cozy mysteriesThe Hamptons are known for beautiful beaches, luxurious living, millionaire mansions, and now...murder! Antonia Bingham, a renowned chef and the new owner of East Hampton's Windmill Inn, escaped to the Hamptons to get away from a harrowing past. Yet she finds herself in more danger than ever when she learns about a curse that haunts the inn—all previous owners have died suspiciously.
When she's not cooking sumptuous meals for her guests Antonia digs into the investigation to uncover who's behind the curse. Could the culprit be a guest at the inn, or is there a killer on the road? And the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she gets to being the next victim—will she solve the case in time to save herself?
This highly anticipated new cozy mystery release is full of superb dinners, walks on the beach, and baffling clues.
Featuring the quirky chef and amateur sleuth Antonia Bingham, this new mystery book
Perfect for Fans of Denise Swanson and Louise PennyFor readers of classic murder mysteries and scenic town cozy mysteriesThe Hamptons are known for beautiful beaches, luxurious living, millionaire mansions, and now...murder! Antonia Bingham, a renowned chef and the new owner of East Hampton's Windmill Inn, escaped to the Hamptons to get away from a harrowing past. Yet she finds herself in more danger than ever when she learns about a curse that haunts the inn—all previous owners have died suspiciously.
When she's not cooking sumptuous meals for her guests Antonia digs into the investigation to uncover who's behind the curse. Could the culprit be a guest at the inn, or is there a killer on the road? And the closer she gets to the truth, the closer she gets to being the next victim—will she solve the case in time to save herself?
This highly anticipated new cozy mystery release is full of superb dinners, walks on the beach, and baffling clues.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2016
244 people are currently reading
1781 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Doyle
15 books361 followersCarrie Doyle is a bestselling author who has written fourteen books. (She also has written under the name Carrie Karasyov.)
THE MURDER GAME was nominated as one of the best YA books of 2021 by Suspense Magazine.
IT TAKES TWO TO MANGO was named one of the best books of 2021 by KING'S RIVER LIFE MAGAZINE.
Her new book, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGONFRUIT TATTOO, was out January 2023.
THE MURDER GAME was nominated as one of the best YA books of 2021 by Suspense Magazine.
IT TAKES TWO TO MANGO was named one of the best books of 2021 by KING'S RIVER LIFE MAGAZINE.
Her new book, THE GIRL WITH THE DRAGONFRUIT TATTOO, was out January 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
December 30, 2018
There are lots of reasons why I choose a novel. For instance, I won a giveaway last year for the second book in the Hamptons Murder Mystery series written by Carrie Doyle and enjoyed reading it. Given the author doesn't live too far from me in NYC and I've been to the Hamptons where the books take place, it felt like a good match... so I'm reading the series from the beginning starting with the first one, Death on Windmill Way. 4.5 stars to this wonderful gem that helped me jump out of a small reading slump last week where I tried three books and couldn't get into any of them. This one left me excited to read again, and I'll soon be picking up the next in series to keep moving forward.
Antonia moved to the Hamptons ~8 months earlier on a whim. She'd been in an awful relationship, lived in California, and needed a fresh start. She purchased an inn (sight unseen) based on a friend's suggestion and immediately remodeled it. When the book kicks off, she's just re-opened post-summer season to good reviews but is still struggling to make ends meet. Antonia slowly learns of a curse haunting past owners of the inn which steers her in the direction of researching the history she should've learned about before buying the place (she knows she messed up, too!). Unfortunately, she learns the curse is more than just a rumor - someone has been killing them, but why? Between former and new staff at the inn, some residents in the town, a few friends she makes, and the local reporter, Antonia uses her ingenuity to solve the case. The police aren't even involved until a second murder takes place, but since it looks like an accident at first, they're not inclined to do much.
My absolute favorite part of the book occurs when Antonia gathers all the suspects together at a dinner party and one by one picks them off... um, I mean... reveals their secrets or explains why they could be the killer. She leaves someone for last, and it's a doozy! I had two possible culprits in mind, and I was right with one of them. That said, it's not obvious, and the weaving in and out of everyone's alibis and motives is truly a great story. Antonia is a strong lead character, very well developed, but with a few personality traits that might irk some. She's a tad judgmental (equally against all people in an understandable way) but overly honest and dedicated. I really look forward to see how she develops over the series and getting to meet the rest of the regulars in the town.
Antonia moved to the Hamptons ~8 months earlier on a whim. She'd been in an awful relationship, lived in California, and needed a fresh start. She purchased an inn (sight unseen) based on a friend's suggestion and immediately remodeled it. When the book kicks off, she's just re-opened post-summer season to good reviews but is still struggling to make ends meet. Antonia slowly learns of a curse haunting past owners of the inn which steers her in the direction of researching the history she should've learned about before buying the place (she knows she messed up, too!). Unfortunately, she learns the curse is more than just a rumor - someone has been killing them, but why? Between former and new staff at the inn, some residents in the town, a few friends she makes, and the local reporter, Antonia uses her ingenuity to solve the case. The police aren't even involved until a second murder takes place, but since it looks like an accident at first, they're not inclined to do much.
My absolute favorite part of the book occurs when Antonia gathers all the suspects together at a dinner party and one by one picks them off... um, I mean... reveals their secrets or explains why they could be the killer. She leaves someone for last, and it's a doozy! I had two possible culprits in mind, and I was right with one of them. That said, it's not obvious, and the weaving in and out of everyone's alibis and motives is truly a great story. Antonia is a strong lead character, very well developed, but with a few personality traits that might irk some. She's a tad judgmental (equally against all people in an understandable way) but overly honest and dedicated. I really look forward to see how she develops over the series and getting to meet the rest of the regulars in the town.
June 14, 2020
DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY by Carrie Doyle is the first book in the Hamptons Murder Mysteries series and the first book by this author that I have read. The novel is set in the Hamptons in New York. Antonia Bingham moved there about six months ago to buy the run-down Windmill Inn. She has now renovated it and is open for business in both the inn and restaurant. However, life here is not all beaches and luxurious living. Besides the hard work of running her business, including functioning as a chef, previous owners of the inn have died. Some believe there is a curse, others think it is natural. Of course, Antonia decides to investigate.
Antonia is someone you can root for, but I did not really connect with her. She did not seem to have done her research on the inn before she purchased it. However, she did have a distinct voice with flaws and virtues. Additionally, her goals were clear and her motivations seemed believable. The author does a great job of painting a picture of the inn, the people, the beach, and the food. The story line was interesting and had plenty of red herrings. However, the mystery was too easy for me to solve.
Overall, this book was enjoyable and entertaining. If you enjoy cozy mysteries and beautiful settings, then this may be the series for you.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Carrie Doyle for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
Antonia is someone you can root for, but I did not really connect with her. She did not seem to have done her research on the inn before she purchased it. However, she did have a distinct voice with flaws and virtues. Additionally, her goals were clear and her motivations seemed believable. The author does a great job of painting a picture of the inn, the people, the beach, and the food. The story line was interesting and had plenty of red herrings. However, the mystery was too easy for me to solve.
Overall, this book was enjoyable and entertaining. If you enjoy cozy mysteries and beautiful settings, then this may be the series for you.
Many thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and Carrie Doyle for a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley and the opportunity to provide an honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way.
September 3, 2020
Signs I will hate the [insert book genre here:] fantasy historical novel cozy mystery you have written:
(1) The point of view you have used is that of your main character, and your main character is:
a. Not terribly bright.
Antonia, main character of this novel, seems to have spent the last year or so of her life flinging money around like a crazed flowergirl tossing rose petals all over the congregation at a wedding. And then, because she has paid little to no attention to such matters, is shocked – SHOCKED, I say – when someone points out to her that, really, money is a rather finite thing when income is as limited as theirs is, and maybe she should stop spending quite so freely – and maybe shouldn't have ordered furniture shipped over from England and so forth. Shocked, I tell you. Also, someone makes an actual effort to kill her, and she … just … decides to decide that "It had just been a fluke".
b. Disgustingly judgmental.
Antonia instantly assesses the physical appearance of everyone she meeets. Reactions tend to be about 45% "oh he/she's ever so attractive until looked at more closely but then she/he's just average" and 45% outright contemptful "bleh", with the other 10% swooning and all-but-literally drooling adoration for a celebrity. For example, the incredibly ugly personality bound up in the reporter who gloms onto her is enclosed in an almost-attractive personage, but he's ridiculously short, therefore can't be attractive at all. (I'm five feet tall. This did not sit well with me.) Now, granted, of course everyone makes such assessments of other people – but even with my low opinion of humanity I cling to hope that most people aren’t this ugly in their internal monologue. Typical example of character description: "She had the husky voice of a smoker and the yellow stained teeth to confirm it. The green apron fit snugly over her Easter egg blue sweater and her low-hanging ample breasts were making an effort to burst out of the front but instead were flopping out to the sides. She had on gold dangling earrings that softened her somewhat harsh, bird-like features." Is that level of nastiness necessary?
c. Under the impression (s)he is a better detective than the detectives.
"I remember you used to be obsessed with your ex-husband’s cases. You were more of a detective than he was."
"I was better at it than he was."
d. Ridiculously vain over her appearance
She complacently notes that she doesn't have a single gray hair, and hopes she never will have. By that point, I was hoping much the same thing – because the only way you're going to naturally avoid gray hairs is to die young, and I was ready to kill her myself.
e. Surrounded by characters I came quickly to loathe almost as much as your main character.
This does not make for a pleasant reading experience.
(2) You apparently came across some facts in your research that you just have to regurgitate into your text, whether they make sense or not. After all, with these bits shoehorned in there, you can feel like you've done a public service. Or something.
I did not make note of how long the diatribe on bees went on. It was several pages, however, and for some unknown reason included ancient Egypt and multitudinous statistics.
a. However, all the research you did failed to make your writing accurate or entirely coherent.
- Bees' nests and hives are not the same thing.
- And this makes no sense: "Throughout much of the nineteenth century the Windmill Inn had housed a tannery in the barn out back; guests stayed in the main building while their saddles were treated." How can someone attempt to write a book in which a tannery is brought up without knowing that a tannery stank to high heaven, and any guest staying at an inn adjacent to a tannery would have most probably been those unable to afford better?
ETA: Also, I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure that's not how a tannery works. It's not a spa for saddles, I'm pretty sure.
- "I have a garden out back. I love wild flowers." – If they're planted in a garden, does that not mean they're not actually wildflowers?
- "But I was his common-law wife for five years." No, you weren't. Common law marriage is not recognized in the state of New York – in fact, it's only recognized in a handful of states. So living with someone for five years – or fifteen, or eighty-two – just means you've lived with someone for that many years. You're either married or you're not. It took me less than five minutes to learn this.
(3). There are holes in your plot that could hold a spacious and overly expensive Hamptons inn.
- The owner of the inn in question prior to the piece of work that is Antonia died. Official cause of death: heart failure. Someone at some point mentions that there was swelling on the man's face that looked like (not was, mind: looked like) a bee-sting; was he allergic? Antonia takes this as a statement instead of a question and goes haring off in all directions a. spreading the unfounded rumor that the man was murdered by bee-sting (in December) and b. that he was allergic enough to bee venom that it would kill him. At no point does anyone ever actually say "Yes, this man was definitely highly allergic to bee-stings and being stung would cause his death" –that "common-law wife", the man's sister, and a woman who worked with for many years apparently knew nothing of any such allergy … and yet Antonia takes it as a given, and a highly unlikely and unusual method of murder. "You did know he was allergic to bees, didn’t you?" But - - - seriously, was he?? And – really? Based on absolutely nothing the so-brilliant Main Character actually is suggesting exhumation of the body??
(4) Your editor sucks, and your writing badly needs a good editor.
a. This is kind of self-evident – no examples needed.
- But because I made notes of them I'll give examples of bad writing anyway. "Maybe she just snapped one day with Gordon." The character Gordon's killing was not a "snappy" kind of murder; it was something that took planning and forethought. If someone "just snapped" they might have strangled or stabbed or shot the guy, but probably would not have located a bee, plotted out some way of conveying said bee to the victim's person in such a way that it would sting him, and watched while he asphyxiated. Not that that's probably what happened.
- "She swallowed gently as if reluctant to release the sandwich from her tastebuds to her stomach." I'm not even starting on that. It's a terrible sentence in every possible way except actual grammar – it's nonsense, but I think it's technically correct nonsense. I'm just kind of afraid to go back and examine it. Also, it's kind of disgusting.
- "It would make sense that he was after booze, thought Antonia. Didn’t he work at a liquor store?" Why would someone who worked at a liquor store be "after booze" someplace else?
- That's not what "impart" means.
- "I didn’t set out to have a beehive, it just sort of happened. I kind of inherited it. And they make the most delicious honey in the world!" This is a) asinine, and b) who or what are "they"? There is no plural anything in prior sentences
- Main character orders – in her own inn – a breakfast with "all the bells and whistles". And then hopes that the server knows what she meant. And then is content with what is brought – which, apparently, was tea and mini muffins. Given the absurd level of description in the book I would think I'd have been informed of every crumb on the tray, but no: mini muffins. That doesn't sound very bell-and-whistle to me. It's not even just whistle.
(5) You have littered the ground with suspects when there may not have even been any murders. Now, yes, it is accepted practice to obfuscate a killer's identity behind a cloud of other possibilities, but this is just ridiculous.
a. "They found arsenic in the cake, which Charmaine swore must have gotten in there by accident. She had picked some thyme from the garden to add to the cake and must have mistakenly included it, she claimed." – How could thyme a) mistakenly find its way into a cake (because what kind of cake has thyme as an ingredient?!), or b) be responsible for any quantity of arsenic? Is there some way to plant arsenic in your garden that I've never heard of?
(6) The book seems to be heavily padded.
- At one point I made a note: "oh my sweet god she ate crackers put away groceries watered a plant touched up makeup and put on lotion HELP ME". If any of the puttering that went on in several pages worth of wasted time ever became relevant, it was after I quit. Wait – the puttering, which also included long contemplation of a mysterious box she had been given along with a lengthy examination of said plant and whether she had killed it or not, did serve a purpose: it made her much too … er, busy to open this mysterious box before she decided she was needed in the kitchen. And so the box went unopened. For no legitimate reason.
- See above: bees. Pages on the subject of.
- Am I supposed to really care that the main character loves her Uggs and that the fabric on her chair came from a company called Quadrille of which I've never heard? Was the author hoping for freebies from these companies?
(7) Having a pretty cover will only make it worse that the book is bad. This has a very pretty cover. But it's a really rather bad book.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
(1) The point of view you have used is that of your main character, and your main character is:
a. Not terribly bright.
Antonia, main character of this novel, seems to have spent the last year or so of her life flinging money around like a crazed flowergirl tossing rose petals all over the congregation at a wedding. And then, because she has paid little to no attention to such matters, is shocked – SHOCKED, I say – when someone points out to her that, really, money is a rather finite thing when income is as limited as theirs is, and maybe she should stop spending quite so freely – and maybe shouldn't have ordered furniture shipped over from England and so forth. Shocked, I tell you. Also, someone makes an actual effort to kill her, and she … just … decides to decide that "It had just been a fluke".
b. Disgustingly judgmental.
Antonia instantly assesses the physical appearance of everyone she meeets. Reactions tend to be about 45% "oh he/she's ever so attractive until looked at more closely but then she/he's just average" and 45% outright contemptful "bleh", with the other 10% swooning and all-but-literally drooling adoration for a celebrity. For example, the incredibly ugly personality bound up in the reporter who gloms onto her is enclosed in an almost-attractive personage, but he's ridiculously short, therefore can't be attractive at all. (I'm five feet tall. This did not sit well with me.) Now, granted, of course everyone makes such assessments of other people – but even with my low opinion of humanity I cling to hope that most people aren’t this ugly in their internal monologue. Typical example of character description: "She had the husky voice of a smoker and the yellow stained teeth to confirm it. The green apron fit snugly over her Easter egg blue sweater and her low-hanging ample breasts were making an effort to burst out of the front but instead were flopping out to the sides. She had on gold dangling earrings that softened her somewhat harsh, bird-like features." Is that level of nastiness necessary?
c. Under the impression (s)he is a better detective than the detectives.
"I remember you used to be obsessed with your ex-husband’s cases. You were more of a detective than he was."
"I was better at it than he was."
d. Ridiculously vain over her appearance
She complacently notes that she doesn't have a single gray hair, and hopes she never will have. By that point, I was hoping much the same thing – because the only way you're going to naturally avoid gray hairs is to die young, and I was ready to kill her myself.
e. Surrounded by characters I came quickly to loathe almost as much as your main character.
This does not make for a pleasant reading experience.
(2) You apparently came across some facts in your research that you just have to regurgitate into your text, whether they make sense or not. After all, with these bits shoehorned in there, you can feel like you've done a public service. Or something.
I did not make note of how long the diatribe on bees went on. It was several pages, however, and for some unknown reason included ancient Egypt and multitudinous statistics.
a. However, all the research you did failed to make your writing accurate or entirely coherent.
- Bees' nests and hives are not the same thing.
- And this makes no sense: "Throughout much of the nineteenth century the Windmill Inn had housed a tannery in the barn out back; guests stayed in the main building while their saddles were treated." How can someone attempt to write a book in which a tannery is brought up without knowing that a tannery stank to high heaven, and any guest staying at an inn adjacent to a tannery would have most probably been those unable to afford better?
ETA: Also, I'm no expert, but I'm pretty sure that's not how a tannery works. It's not a spa for saddles, I'm pretty sure.
- "I have a garden out back. I love wild flowers." – If they're planted in a garden, does that not mean they're not actually wildflowers?
- "But I was his common-law wife for five years." No, you weren't. Common law marriage is not recognized in the state of New York – in fact, it's only recognized in a handful of states. So living with someone for five years – or fifteen, or eighty-two – just means you've lived with someone for that many years. You're either married or you're not. It took me less than five minutes to learn this.
(3). There are holes in your plot that could hold a spacious and overly expensive Hamptons inn.
- The owner of the inn in question prior to the piece of work that is Antonia died. Official cause of death: heart failure. Someone at some point mentions that there was swelling on the man's face that looked like (not was, mind: looked like) a bee-sting; was he allergic? Antonia takes this as a statement instead of a question and goes haring off in all directions a. spreading the unfounded rumor that the man was murdered by bee-sting (in December) and b. that he was allergic enough to bee venom that it would kill him. At no point does anyone ever actually say "Yes, this man was definitely highly allergic to bee-stings and being stung would cause his death" –that "common-law wife", the man's sister, and a woman who worked with for many years apparently knew nothing of any such allergy … and yet Antonia takes it as a given, and a highly unlikely and unusual method of murder. "You did know he was allergic to bees, didn’t you?" But - - - seriously, was he?? And – really? Based on absolutely nothing the so-brilliant Main Character actually is suggesting exhumation of the body??
(4) Your editor sucks, and your writing badly needs a good editor.
a. This is kind of self-evident – no examples needed.
- But because I made notes of them I'll give examples of bad writing anyway. "Maybe she just snapped one day with Gordon." The character Gordon's killing was not a "snappy" kind of murder; it was something that took planning and forethought. If someone "just snapped" they might have strangled or stabbed or shot the guy, but probably would not have located a bee, plotted out some way of conveying said bee to the victim's person in such a way that it would sting him, and watched while he asphyxiated. Not that that's probably what happened.
- "She swallowed gently as if reluctant to release the sandwich from her tastebuds to her stomach." I'm not even starting on that. It's a terrible sentence in every possible way except actual grammar – it's nonsense, but I think it's technically correct nonsense. I'm just kind of afraid to go back and examine it. Also, it's kind of disgusting.
- "It would make sense that he was after booze, thought Antonia. Didn’t he work at a liquor store?" Why would someone who worked at a liquor store be "after booze" someplace else?
- That's not what "impart" means.
- "I didn’t set out to have a beehive, it just sort of happened. I kind of inherited it. And they make the most delicious honey in the world!" This is a) asinine, and b) who or what are "they"? There is no plural anything in prior sentences
- Main character orders – in her own inn – a breakfast with "all the bells and whistles". And then hopes that the server knows what she meant. And then is content with what is brought – which, apparently, was tea and mini muffins. Given the absurd level of description in the book I would think I'd have been informed of every crumb on the tray, but no: mini muffins. That doesn't sound very bell-and-whistle to me. It's not even just whistle.
(5) You have littered the ground with suspects when there may not have even been any murders. Now, yes, it is accepted practice to obfuscate a killer's identity behind a cloud of other possibilities, but this is just ridiculous.
a. "They found arsenic in the cake, which Charmaine swore must have gotten in there by accident. She had picked some thyme from the garden to add to the cake and must have mistakenly included it, she claimed." – How could thyme a) mistakenly find its way into a cake (because what kind of cake has thyme as an ingredient?!), or b) be responsible for any quantity of arsenic? Is there some way to plant arsenic in your garden that I've never heard of?
(6) The book seems to be heavily padded.
- At one point I made a note: "oh my sweet god she ate crackers put away groceries watered a plant touched up makeup and put on lotion HELP ME". If any of the puttering that went on in several pages worth of wasted time ever became relevant, it was after I quit. Wait – the puttering, which also included long contemplation of a mysterious box she had been given along with a lengthy examination of said plant and whether she had killed it or not, did serve a purpose: it made her much too … er, busy to open this mysterious box before she decided she was needed in the kitchen. And so the box went unopened. For no legitimate reason.
- See above: bees. Pages on the subject of.
- Am I supposed to really care that the main character loves her Uggs and that the fabric on her chair came from a company called Quadrille of which I've never heard? Was the author hoping for freebies from these companies?
(7) Having a pretty cover will only make it worse that the book is bad. This has a very pretty cover. But it's a really rather bad book.
The usual disclaimer: I received this book via Netgalley for review.
June 23, 2020
This caught my eye (that cover is wholly responsible) and I'm always a fan of reading about small communities that are "off-season" (resort or college towns). This was set during autumn and gave a very good feel for the pace and also a look in at the shops and the inn Antonia (our amateur sleuth) owns and runs. I was about even on what I liked and what I found didn't quite work for me (pretty usual for a first in a series) so first what I liked.
The setting was perfect and very well described. The detail of the Inn, the town, and the food everywhere was inviting. The recitations of meals were so well done, I was a bit disappointed there were no recipes included at the end. This was a longer cozy and quite a lot was taken up with such descriptions. As such, it did take away from the pace of the mystery.
The characters were a bit of a mixed bag. Antonia, the main character had some grating tendencies that I'm attributing to first book quirks and hoping resolves as the series continues. Her almost complete abdication of responsibility for the finances of her business was jarring. I have a peeve about this with cozies in particular. I have little patience for the shopkeeper (innkeeper, in this instance) who sleuths to the exclusion of taking care of their business, gives away all their wares or has a shady employee emptying the coffers (because no oversight) and then is completely surprised when the ledger is screaming red and the business is on the brink of the brink. It's a credibility dasher for me and Antonia personified it and it hits in chapter 13 (of 36 chapters). I admit, I held it against her throughout and found that this held for the main of the story. She brings together all of the suspects in the vein of Poirot and Marple to out the murderer and I felt it was an unearned affectation on her part. I actually cheered on a character who challenged her with "Let's get to the point here, Bingham." while she was doing her interrogations of everyone. So, not a great feeling to have toward a main character one is supposed to want to follow. She had other flaws but none of those were as off-putting.
I thought Larry, the town reporter was the most vividly drawn character and while he's probably not around to be a liked character, I enjoyed his presence. He was interesting and often, the perfect skewer to Antonia's personality quirks. I hope there's more of him in subsequent books because he's worth it. Joseph was another stand out character. I loved how his relationship with Antonia was portrayed and how they worked as a team. The very end of the story was heartwarming and made me smile. I look forward to more of him also. Genevieve, Antonia's BFF is almost a non-entity and I was never quite sure why she existed unless she was just there to give us information about Antonia's past. Nick is probably going to be Antonia's love interest but for the time being, he's basically a boyfriend blank. He had no real purpose in this story. Hopefully, Genevieve and Nick come more into focus as characters and purpose as the series continues.
As mentioned before, the pace of the mystery was a bit slow additionally, the killer was easy to call early on. Sadly, the path to the reveal didn't make up for the early realization. It could be a first book quirk so I'm hoping that doesn't happen with the next, which I will be on the lookout for.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an Advance Reader Copy.
The setting was perfect and very well described. The detail of the Inn, the town, and the food everywhere was inviting. The recitations of meals were so well done, I was a bit disappointed there were no recipes included at the end. This was a longer cozy and quite a lot was taken up with such descriptions. As such, it did take away from the pace of the mystery.
The characters were a bit of a mixed bag. Antonia, the main character had some grating tendencies that I'm attributing to first book quirks and hoping resolves as the series continues. Her almost complete abdication of responsibility for the finances of her business was jarring. I have a peeve about this with cozies in particular. I have little patience for the shopkeeper (innkeeper, in this instance) who sleuths to the exclusion of taking care of their business, gives away all their wares or has a shady employee emptying the coffers (because no oversight) and then is completely surprised when the ledger is screaming red and the business is on the brink of the brink. It's a credibility dasher for me and Antonia personified it and it hits in chapter 13 (of 36 chapters). I admit, I held it against her throughout and found that this held for the main of the story. She brings together all of the suspects in the vein of Poirot and Marple to out the murderer and I felt it was an unearned affectation on her part. I actually cheered on a character who challenged her with "Let's get to the point here, Bingham." while she was doing her interrogations of everyone. So, not a great feeling to have toward a main character one is supposed to want to follow. She had other flaws but none of those were as off-putting.
I thought Larry, the town reporter was the most vividly drawn character and while he's probably not around to be a liked character, I enjoyed his presence. He was interesting and often, the perfect skewer to Antonia's personality quirks. I hope there's more of him in subsequent books because he's worth it. Joseph was another stand out character. I loved how his relationship with Antonia was portrayed and how they worked as a team. The very end of the story was heartwarming and made me smile. I look forward to more of him also. Genevieve, Antonia's BFF is almost a non-entity and I was never quite sure why she existed unless she was just there to give us information about Antonia's past. Nick is probably going to be Antonia's love interest but for the time being, he's basically a boyfriend blank. He had no real purpose in this story. Hopefully, Genevieve and Nick come more into focus as characters and purpose as the series continues.
As mentioned before, the pace of the mystery was a bit slow additionally, the killer was easy to call early on. Sadly, the path to the reveal didn't make up for the early realization. It could be a first book quirk so I'm hoping that doesn't happen with the next, which I will be on the lookout for.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an Advance Reader Copy.
August 24, 2016
This is the first in a new, cozy, mystery series set in East Hampton. Antonia Bingham is thirty five, when, after an unhappy divorce and the loss of her father, she decides to make the move from California to the East Coast. Her friend suggests she buys the Windmill Inn, whose former owner, Gordon Haslett, recently died of a heart attack.
At first, Antonia is enthused by her new Inn – although her heart is really in the restaurant. For Antonia is a foodie and she often judges people by whether they will accept one of her scrumptious snacks! However, soon she begins to hear some disturbing rumours. There is a superstition that owners of the Windmill Inn die under suspicious circumstances and whispers that the generally unpopular former owner of the inn did not die of natural causes…
When Antonia meets handsome movie star, Nick Darrow, on the beach, she dreams of romance. However, he indirectly introduces her to the sleazy crime reporter, Larry Lipper and she questions him about Gordon Haslett’s death. When a fight erupts in the Inn between Haslett’s sister, Naomi and his girlfriend, named Barbie (honestly!) then she begins to investigate in earnest. Is she imagining the odd things happening around her ? Is she under threat of a curse, or is the Inn haunted?
This is a fun read, with a good cast of characters to flesh out the story. Antonia is a very likeable lady and becomes good friends with the widowed, historical novelist, Joseph Fowler, who becomes something of a father figure to her. The extremely un-PC Larry Lipper is also a good character and there are a good cast of possible suspects and motives. I am sure this is a series I will continue with as it is a good, light read, with a good setting. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
At first, Antonia is enthused by her new Inn – although her heart is really in the restaurant. For Antonia is a foodie and she often judges people by whether they will accept one of her scrumptious snacks! However, soon she begins to hear some disturbing rumours. There is a superstition that owners of the Windmill Inn die under suspicious circumstances and whispers that the generally unpopular former owner of the inn did not die of natural causes…
When Antonia meets handsome movie star, Nick Darrow, on the beach, she dreams of romance. However, he indirectly introduces her to the sleazy crime reporter, Larry Lipper and she questions him about Gordon Haslett’s death. When a fight erupts in the Inn between Haslett’s sister, Naomi and his girlfriend, named Barbie (honestly!) then she begins to investigate in earnest. Is she imagining the odd things happening around her ? Is she under threat of a curse, or is the Inn haunted?
This is a fun read, with a good cast of characters to flesh out the story. Antonia is a very likeable lady and becomes good friends with the widowed, historical novelist, Joseph Fowler, who becomes something of a father figure to her. The extremely un-PC Larry Lipper is also a good character and there are a good cast of possible suspects and motives. I am sure this is a series I will continue with as it is a good, light read, with a good setting. I received a copy of this book from the publisher, via NetGalley, for review.
February 22, 2022
Judgy Judgerson, aka Carrie, is a bigoted jerk who thinks she knows how people should dress and look.
Full of misogyny and society standards, this book is a complete load of rubbish. Shame on the author for having this sort of mindset. Grow up.
I was hoping for a fun new mystery series. Not this garbage.
Full of misogyny and society standards, this book is a complete load of rubbish. Shame on the author for having this sort of mindset. Grow up.
I was hoping for a fun new mystery series. Not this garbage.
March 15, 2018
If you’ve ever visited The Hamptons you will love this series. Carrie Doyle takes her time to create a picture of East Hampton as the backdrop to her story and series.
Antonia may have thought her days would be filled only with the ins and outs of running an inn and restaurant but fate has something else in mind. The new innkeeper is also testing out her investigative skills after learning that Windmill Inn’s owners don’t get out of the business alive. She wants to solve the mystery of how the last two keepers died and ensure she doesn’t join them.
The mystery of what happened to former owner Gordon Haslett is fairly well-plotted. There are doubts as to how exactly he died and that aspect of the story is explained during the novel. The second murder happens early enough in the story to create just the right amount of tension and motivation to get Antonia interested in solving the crime. I think the clues are well-placed throughout the story. The red herrings are present, some more absorbing than others. The big reveal at the end is overdramatic yet highly entertaining. I don’t think it was that hard to figure out the ‘who’ but I was really invested in trying to determine the ‘why’.
The setting is East Hampton. The author knows this region well and wants us all to delight in it. On the plus side, there is a vivid picture created for the reader to imagine the setting. There are interesting tidbits about the day to day realties of actually living in The Hamptons, a place most people only know as a tourist destination. On the down side, there is so much description that it interrupts the flow of the story at times. This novel sits at 400 pages, which is quite long for a cozy mystery. There are detailed descriptions, of almost every single place visited, which add to the length.
Antonia and the other characters: Antonia has an interesting back story and maybe in subsequent novels that story will be further explored. I liked that in this novel we see her pushing herself to try new things. She’s comfortable in her own skin but knows there are things she can improve. The secondary characters are interesting. Joseph is written charmingly and will win you over. Larry is brilliantly described right down his smarmy antics and is easy to dislike. Antonia’s best friend, Genevieve may need some more fleshing out. Most of the suspects are well-drawn as well.
This is definitely a cozy mystery story to delight the senses. If you love a beach setting, delicious food, very descriptive writing and an endearingly dramatic heroine, you will certainly enjoy Death on Windmill Way.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Antonia may have thought her days would be filled only with the ins and outs of running an inn and restaurant but fate has something else in mind. The new innkeeper is also testing out her investigative skills after learning that Windmill Inn’s owners don’t get out of the business alive. She wants to solve the mystery of how the last two keepers died and ensure she doesn’t join them.
The mystery of what happened to former owner Gordon Haslett is fairly well-plotted. There are doubts as to how exactly he died and that aspect of the story is explained during the novel. The second murder happens early enough in the story to create just the right amount of tension and motivation to get Antonia interested in solving the crime. I think the clues are well-placed throughout the story. The red herrings are present, some more absorbing than others. The big reveal at the end is overdramatic yet highly entertaining. I don’t think it was that hard to figure out the ‘who’ but I was really invested in trying to determine the ‘why’.
The setting is East Hampton. The author knows this region well and wants us all to delight in it. On the plus side, there is a vivid picture created for the reader to imagine the setting. There are interesting tidbits about the day to day realties of actually living in The Hamptons, a place most people only know as a tourist destination. On the down side, there is so much description that it interrupts the flow of the story at times. This novel sits at 400 pages, which is quite long for a cozy mystery. There are detailed descriptions, of almost every single place visited, which add to the length.
Antonia and the other characters: Antonia has an interesting back story and maybe in subsequent novels that story will be further explored. I liked that in this novel we see her pushing herself to try new things. She’s comfortable in her own skin but knows there are things she can improve. The secondary characters are interesting. Joseph is written charmingly and will win you over. Larry is brilliantly described right down his smarmy antics and is easy to dislike. Antonia’s best friend, Genevieve may need some more fleshing out. Most of the suspects are well-drawn as well.
This is definitely a cozy mystery story to delight the senses. If you love a beach setting, delicious food, very descriptive writing and an endearingly dramatic heroine, you will certainly enjoy Death on Windmill Way.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
November 15, 2016
Welcome to the Hampton's better known as the playground
for the rich and famous!!
The location, houses, furnishings and clothing worn in the
story are vividly described making the reader feel as if you
were there with the characters.
Antonia Bingham has bought the East Hampton Windmill Inn.
She is a well known chef hailing from California. Antonio has
spent a lot of time researching the historical structure and
features of the earlier Inn. She has renovated the Windmill
Inn to fit into the Hampton older households and
furnishings traditions.
But has Antonio has made an unpleasant discovery....the
Inn has a curse attached to it. It seems all the other owners
have meet with unnatural deaths!!!
Then unexplainable pranks start to befall on her. She needs
to figure out what is happening and who is behind the
murder and mayhem associated with the Inn.
The cast of characters are vivid, colorful, engaging and
entertaining. They were many suspicious suspects for
Antonio to investigate.
Creative writing, unique plot with twists, turns, thrills
and chills.
This is the first book in the Hampton's Murder Mystery
series.
A very enjoyable read. I highly recommend this book.
I volunteered to read this book. Thanks to the author via
The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book. My opinion
is my own.
for the rich and famous!!
The location, houses, furnishings and clothing worn in the
story are vividly described making the reader feel as if you
were there with the characters.
Antonia Bingham has bought the East Hampton Windmill Inn.
She is a well known chef hailing from California. Antonio has
spent a lot of time researching the historical structure and
features of the earlier Inn. She has renovated the Windmill
Inn to fit into the Hampton older households and
furnishings traditions.
But has Antonio has made an unpleasant discovery....the
Inn has a curse attached to it. It seems all the other owners
have meet with unnatural deaths!!!
Then unexplainable pranks start to befall on her. She needs
to figure out what is happening and who is behind the
murder and mayhem associated with the Inn.
The cast of characters are vivid, colorful, engaging and
entertaining. They were many suspicious suspects for
Antonio to investigate.
Creative writing, unique plot with twists, turns, thrills
and chills.
This is the first book in the Hampton's Murder Mystery
series.
A very enjoyable read. I highly recommend this book.
I volunteered to read this book. Thanks to the author via
The Cozy Mystery Review Crew for the book. My opinion
is my own.
May 25, 2020
The previous owners of Antonia’s inn have died suspicious deaths. Curious about a potential curse, Antonia begins to dig into the circumstances around the death of the previous owner. But is she digging her own grave? Or is a homicidal maniac about to be uncovered? The reveal in Death in Windmill Way is both entertaining and satisfying. This is a nice light read.
June 21, 2020
Death on Windmill Way by Carrie Doyle is the first novel in A Hamptons Murder Mystery series. The cover is just lovely for this cozy mystery. Antonia Bingham bought Windmill Inn without seeing it in person on the advice of her best friend, Genevieve. Antonia was anxious for a new start after her divorce from her controlling ex-husband. The main thing that sold her on the property was the large restaurant because Antonia is a chef who loves to cook. When Antonia learns that there may be a curse attached to the inn, she decides to do a little snooping. After all, her childhood nickname was “snoop” per Genevieve and Antonia claims to be a better detective than her former husband. I had high hopes for Death on Windmill Way, but there were several things that kept me from enjoying this cozy mystery. Carrie Doyle is a detail-oriented writer. A person is described down to the color of their nail polish and a room is discussed in detail including where she obtained the fabric and the color of the lamps. Every single person is given this attention along with other properties, rooms, stores, streets, etc. I felt it was too much detail and bogged down the story. There was a discourse on bees that went on for several pages and included information that was interesting but not relevant. There were also some facts in the book that were inaccurate (an example is New York does not recognize common law marriage but a character in the book kept claiming to be Gordon’s common law wife). There were a variety of characters in Death on Windmill Way. I liked John Fowler who lives near Antonia and eats at the restaurant each night. Larry, though, was a piece of work. I really wish the author had not included the obnoxious man considering how he views women and his inappropriate comments. Antonia’s best friend, Genevieve is another unlikeable individual. She is vain and shallow. I am baffled why Antonia likes Genevieve who cares more about herself than her friend. The mystery had multiple suspects, red herrings and pointed clues. The guilty party could easily be identified early in the story. The reveal scene is reminiscent of Murder, She Wrote, but Jessica Fletcher got to the point much quicker than Antonia. The reveal scene seemed to go on forever (I lost track if it was two chapters or three) and lacked concrete facts. Unlike most cozies, this one does contain foul language. Death on Windmill Way contains 416 pages which could have easily been edited down with the elimination of repeated case details and the overly descriptive sentences. The author failed to develop the main character (I know it is shocking, but true). We are given scant details on her past. Antonia needs to be fleshed out and made more likeable. I found Antonia to be contradictory. She carefully furnishes each room in the inn paying close attention to every detail, but then she lets someone she does not know control the finances. Antonia seems to be unaware that she has overspent on renovations and not bringing in enough income to pay the number of people she has employed. I also felt the romance was too soon for Antonia after what she had been through with her husband and she seemed a little obsessed with the man (searching for him each day). A Hamptons Murder Mysteries has potential. It just needs editing and rewriting to help achieve it. The food sounded delectable and the town sounded lovely. Death on Windmill Way is a culinary cozy mystery with a curious curse, bewildering bees, a fashionista friend, bothersome bookkeeping, and a chef cooking culinary cuisine.
November 17, 2016
Antonia needed a do over on her life so at the suggestion of her best friend, Genevieve, she uses most of her inheritance to buy an inn and restaurant in East Hamptons, New York. What she doesn’t know is that the town talks of a curse that claims that all the inn’s owners die under suspicious circumstances. Unfortunately, Antonia only hears about this curse after she has done a complete renovation and has officially opened for business, what can she do now? Solve the murders, of course!
There is quite the cast of characters here! Movie stars, tourists, tourist hating locals, etc. Antonia is spunky and fun but I felt that we never got to know her and since she is the main character that would have been nice. Some of the townspeople are quirky and fun but it seems like you only get small bits about them as well.
The only characters that stood out were the local crime reporter, Larry, and the best friend, Genevieve. The only reasons are that Larry was such an obnoxious man and Genevieve was immature and didn’t even seem to be liked by Antonia! I would have like a few more people to like in East Hamptons.
The setting is idyllic and sounds beautiful and Antonia’s quite the chef and foodie so reading some of the restaurant and kitchen scenes made me hungry. I could picture the inn and it sounded great but a wonderful setting isn’t all you need in a good mystery. The idea behind the mystery was a good one but I honestly did not even care who may or may not have murdered these people that we didn’t even get to know.
I think that this could have been a great cozy mystery with all the quirky characters and the setting but there was just too much miscellaneous and useless information put in instead of details that added to the story. Too many incidences of mundane information thrown in (cheese love, 2 pages of changing a light bulb!?) that didn't add to the story or the characters. At nearly 400 pages, I was expecting a much more enjoyable read and in depth read.
http://stephsbookramblings.blogspot.com/
There is quite the cast of characters here! Movie stars, tourists, tourist hating locals, etc. Antonia is spunky and fun but I felt that we never got to know her and since she is the main character that would have been nice. Some of the townspeople are quirky and fun but it seems like you only get small bits about them as well.
The only characters that stood out were the local crime reporter, Larry, and the best friend, Genevieve. The only reasons are that Larry was such an obnoxious man and Genevieve was immature and didn’t even seem to be liked by Antonia! I would have like a few more people to like in East Hamptons.
The setting is idyllic and sounds beautiful and Antonia’s quite the chef and foodie so reading some of the restaurant and kitchen scenes made me hungry. I could picture the inn and it sounded great but a wonderful setting isn’t all you need in a good mystery. The idea behind the mystery was a good one but I honestly did not even care who may or may not have murdered these people that we didn’t even get to know.
I think that this could have been a great cozy mystery with all the quirky characters and the setting but there was just too much miscellaneous and useless information put in instead of details that added to the story. Too many incidences of mundane information thrown in (cheese love, 2 pages of changing a light bulb!?) that didn't add to the story or the characters. At nearly 400 pages, I was expecting a much more enjoyable read and in depth read.
http://stephsbookramblings.blogspot.com/
November 17, 2016
DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, the first book in the Hamptons Murder Mystery series, is a delightful introduction to Antonia Bingham, owner of the Windmill Inn. When local gossip about previous owners of the Windmill Inn meeting suspicious deaths reaches Antonia, she is shaken and determines to find out if it’s true or not. Unable to trust the police, Antonia starts asking questions and once she finds that the previous owner was murdered (even though it was ruled a heart attack) decides to find the killer on her own.
The author, Carrie Doyle, delves into the social issue of domestic violence with sensitivity, weaving the theme into the plot and making the protagonist someone who is multi-dimensional. Antonia is a character worthy of attention as she struggles to make a new life for herself while viewing the world with a somewhat wry sense of humor. Windmill Inn and the Hamptons’ East End is a charming setting. The author provides great detail about what went in to the development of the Inn along with Antonia’s restaurant. I know some people find so much detail distracting but it made me “see” the settings as the author envisioned them. And then there’s the food! Antonia is a gourmet chef and is obsessed with food. My suggestion would be to not read this book on an empty stomach because you will be craving the many delectable treats mentioned by Antonia! I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I willingly provided a review upon receipt of a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The author, Carrie Doyle, delves into the social issue of domestic violence with sensitivity, weaving the theme into the plot and making the protagonist someone who is multi-dimensional. Antonia is a character worthy of attention as she struggles to make a new life for herself while viewing the world with a somewhat wry sense of humor. Windmill Inn and the Hamptons’ East End is a charming setting. The author provides great detail about what went in to the development of the Inn along with Antonia’s restaurant. I know some people find so much detail distracting but it made me “see” the settings as the author envisioned them. And then there’s the food! Antonia is a gourmet chef and is obsessed with food. My suggestion would be to not read this book on an empty stomach because you will be craving the many delectable treats mentioned by Antonia! I look forward to reading the next book in this series.
I willingly provided a review upon receipt of a copy from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 21, 2016
I know they say you can't judge a book by its cover, but when I saw my copy of Death on Windmill Way by Carrie Doyle, I fell in love with it -- it is very reminiscent of the M. A Hadley pottery I grew up with as a child, and just charming. The story is wonderful and engaging as well. Antonia Bingham has moved from California, escaping an abusive marriage, to East Hampton, New York to run the Windmill Inn and Restaurant, which has seen much better days. She finds she is very talented at both, especially in the kitchen, and is making a success of her new endeavor. One night, she discovers that the the previous owner of the Windmill Inn may have been murdered, and that there may be a curse on the Inn. Known as "Snoopy" as a child for her inquisitive nature, Antonia is determined to investigate and make sure that she does not become a victim of the curse as well.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about the workings of the Inn, Antonia's friendships, and of course the mystery of the previous owners. There are some great characters in Death on Windmill Way, and Antonia is a strong protagonist who is determined not to let go of her dream of being an Innkeeper. You can see the love she has for the Windmill Inn and East Hampton throughout the story. This book is the first in the Hamptons Murder Mysteries, and I look forward to future books about Antonia and the Inn.
I voluntarily reviewed this book, and all opinions are my own.
I really enjoyed this book. It was fun to read about the workings of the Inn, Antonia's friendships, and of course the mystery of the previous owners. There are some great characters in Death on Windmill Way, and Antonia is a strong protagonist who is determined not to let go of her dream of being an Innkeeper. You can see the love she has for the Windmill Inn and East Hampton throughout the story. This book is the first in the Hamptons Murder Mysteries, and I look forward to future books about Antonia and the Inn.
I voluntarily reviewed this book, and all opinions are my own.
February 20, 2017
I have always enjoyed a new cozy series, coming into a new 'town' and learning the sites, residents, and the atmosphere of my new home from the next few days... Death on Windmill Way welcomes you into a historic Inn with a charming chef protagonist and a hometown filled to the brim with interesting people. When Antonia first buys the Inn, she is surprised to find out the previous owner died under suspicious circumstances. She has come to dodge her own past, but the mystery of how he dies and the thrill of solving said mystery is too much to keep her nose out of. With the help of a few sordid characters and a charming setting, Antonia will do her best to keep from becoming the second mysterious death.
For those who enjoy the fun, clean cozy environment, this is a perfect book. I loved it so much!!
For those who enjoy the fun, clean cozy environment, this is a perfect book. I loved it so much!!
July 13, 2017
The setting is quaint, love the food porn, the side characters are vibrant. I wish Antonia was "more": funnier, sillier, quirky, etc.
November 20, 2016
This book left me somewhat frustrated, but hopeful that there will be a second book following these characters. The author had great character development in most cases, except for her main character. The weak point of the book was the main character and her vapid best friend. I'm hoping that the inconsistencies in Antonia's character development will be tweaked so that she will become more fleshed out and likeable in a second book. The plot was inventive and fun to follow even though you clearly know who the killer is very early on in the book. The setting of the storyline, The Hampton's at an inn and surrounding town, is a great location that is well developed into the story. A good book should make you wish to be in that location and this book does do that. However, once again the inconsistent personality of the author/main character shines through even at the inn. The inn is redone to its former historic grandeur and furnished in period appropriate antiques, except the dining room with its modern flair. Just another point of bi-polarism or indecisiveness of the main character. Antonia is fresh out of an abusive marriage in which her ex has basically murdered her father and yet she completely allows a stranger complete control of the finances of the inn. A person who has just finally escaped one abusive relationship would not trust so completely someone else who obviously disapproves of her. While it sounds as if I didn't like the book, I really must say that I did like the story. I just struggled to like the main character. I am hopeful that the ending leads the second book in the series, if there is one, to a much stronger main character. She has put her future into the inn and is supposedly an amazing chef so let's see the character grow up and actually run the inn. Her relationship with Joseph as a surrogate father figure is hopefully a great way to write in a turning point to make Antonia's character less frenetic and her personality less of a zig-zag mess so that she can become the smart, creative and in control character that the author was aiming for. I get that to be fully fleshed out she needs flaws, but lets narrow down the flaws and lose the "air-headedness" that is extremely contradictory to the strength and intelligence the character supposedly has. If the main character was strengthened, I could forgive the shallow and vapid best friend. All in all, I'd say this was a fun murder mystery that has a bit of a Jessica Fletcher/Perry Mason "reveal" at the end that while a bit silly, was entertaining. I'll definitely pick up the second book to see how the characters develop should the author go down the road of series with these characters and setting. There is a lot of potential for future murders/mysteries to happen here!
October 17, 2016
This first book in a new cozy series is sure to delight with it’s mouth watering descriptions of the scrumptious food served in the restaurant at the inn, to the gorgeous architect inside the inn, around town, and down at the beach.
This cozy was a bit different than any other ones that I have read. The cozies I normally read come in paperback, whereas this one is a trade paperback (so it’s larger in dimensions), and it was much longer than a lot of other cozies. Whereas most top out at 300 pages, you get 100 more to enjoy with this book.
It took a bit for me to get use to this one since is was so descriptive. A lot of other cozies focus more on the relationships between the characters. While this one did too, I’m thinking that’s where the extra 100 pages came in handy, to encompass all the wonderful depictions.
I am so happy that the possible future love interest is not a law enforcement agent. So many series do this, and while it’s handy for the plot, it is really over done. Another thing that I really enjoyed was the relationship between Antonia and Joseph. Off the top of my head I can’t think of any other cozies where the characters are decades apart in age and are not also both women, that have such a great friendship.
Carrie Doyle included lots of red herrings when it came to the mystery. While I can’t claim that it took me to the end to figure out the killer, I will say that all the various scenarios of who it could have been, were very well thought out. And I really enjoyed how the final showdown to reveal the killer was done in a style that would have made Miss Marple proud.
I highly recommend this mystery, and am looking forward to book two in the Hampton Murder Mysteries, Death on Lily Pond Lane.
This cozy was a bit different than any other ones that I have read. The cozies I normally read come in paperback, whereas this one is a trade paperback (so it’s larger in dimensions), and it was much longer than a lot of other cozies. Whereas most top out at 300 pages, you get 100 more to enjoy with this book.
It took a bit for me to get use to this one since is was so descriptive. A lot of other cozies focus more on the relationships between the characters. While this one did too, I’m thinking that’s where the extra 100 pages came in handy, to encompass all the wonderful depictions.
I am so happy that the possible future love interest is not a law enforcement agent. So many series do this, and while it’s handy for the plot, it is really over done. Another thing that I really enjoyed was the relationship between Antonia and Joseph. Off the top of my head I can’t think of any other cozies where the characters are decades apart in age and are not also both women, that have such a great friendship.
Carrie Doyle included lots of red herrings when it came to the mystery. While I can’t claim that it took me to the end to figure out the killer, I will say that all the various scenarios of who it could have been, were very well thought out. And I really enjoyed how the final showdown to reveal the killer was done in a style that would have made Miss Marple proud.
I highly recommend this mystery, and am looking forward to book two in the Hampton Murder Mysteries, Death on Lily Pond Lane.
August 23, 2016
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review.
Set in the beautiful Hamptons, this is a cozy mystery with enough suspects to keep you guessing until the very end.
Antonia Bingham is a divorced culinary wonder and she is the new owner of the Windmill Inn. Her excitement over the purchase of the inn keeps her busy with new ideas to bring in the tourists.
When local gossip reaches Antonia, she isn't sure if the rumors are true or false, but they are enough to set her to investigating.
It seems that the rumor is all the previous owners of the inn have met with death, and not the natural kind either. Antonia can't believe that all the owners have died under suspicious cause, so she asks her efficient but cold bookkeeper, Lucy, to compile a list of all the previous owners.
Before long, Antonia is the victim of childish pranks, but pranks that could be detrimental.
There are many colorful characters in this book and some will just make you laugh until you cry.
The author has created a wonderful story packed with interesting characters and set in a wonderful place.
I enjoyed the story very much, I did find some of it a bit boring, that is the only reason this is not a 5 star review.
This will appeal to many cozy mystery readers, I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
Set in the beautiful Hamptons, this is a cozy mystery with enough suspects to keep you guessing until the very end.
Antonia Bingham is a divorced culinary wonder and she is the new owner of the Windmill Inn. Her excitement over the purchase of the inn keeps her busy with new ideas to bring in the tourists.
When local gossip reaches Antonia, she isn't sure if the rumors are true or false, but they are enough to set her to investigating.
It seems that the rumor is all the previous owners of the inn have met with death, and not the natural kind either. Antonia can't believe that all the owners have died under suspicious cause, so she asks her efficient but cold bookkeeper, Lucy, to compile a list of all the previous owners.
Before long, Antonia is the victim of childish pranks, but pranks that could be detrimental.
There are many colorful characters in this book and some will just make you laugh until you cry.
The author has created a wonderful story packed with interesting characters and set in a wonderful place.
I enjoyed the story very much, I did find some of it a bit boring, that is the only reason this is not a 5 star review.
This will appeal to many cozy mystery readers, I am looking forward to reading the next one in the series.
July 5, 2017
Death On Windmill Way
By
Carrie Doyle
What it's all about...
This is a delightfilled mystery that takes place in the Hamptons. Antonia buys an old inn and totally renovates it only to discover that every inn keeper/owner of that particular inn is dead...possibly murdered! So...Antonia starts her own investigation! Antonia also has to deal with jealous mistresses of dead owners, an annoying sister of a dead owner and an irritating annoying local reporter. Plus mysterious things keep happening to Antonia...her apartment was broken into and she was locked in a closet...among lots of other things.
Why I wanted to read it...
I loved reading about the Hamptons and its history.
What made me truly enjoy this book...
Antonia was a fun main character. I loved reading about her in and out of her relationships. I loved the food descriptions, too. She loved to eat...especially cheeses and crackers!
Why you should read it, too...
Any reader who loves a cozy foodie mystery should truly enjoy this book. There were enough annoying and mysterious characters to make the pages fly...especially near the middle and end of the book. I loved this book and can't wait to delve into the next two! But I need to be armed with lots of gourmet cheeses and Carr's Crackers!
By
Carrie Doyle
What it's all about...
This is a delightfilled mystery that takes place in the Hamptons. Antonia buys an old inn and totally renovates it only to discover that every inn keeper/owner of that particular inn is dead...possibly murdered! So...Antonia starts her own investigation! Antonia also has to deal with jealous mistresses of dead owners, an annoying sister of a dead owner and an irritating annoying local reporter. Plus mysterious things keep happening to Antonia...her apartment was broken into and she was locked in a closet...among lots of other things.
Why I wanted to read it...
I loved reading about the Hamptons and its history.
What made me truly enjoy this book...
Antonia was a fun main character. I loved reading about her in and out of her relationships. I loved the food descriptions, too. She loved to eat...especially cheeses and crackers!
Why you should read it, too...
Any reader who loves a cozy foodie mystery should truly enjoy this book. There were enough annoying and mysterious characters to make the pages fly...especially near the middle and end of the book. I loved this book and can't wait to delve into the next two! But I need to be armed with lots of gourmet cheeses and Carr's Crackers!
October 11, 2020
Death on Windmill Way was a fun cozy with a delightful setting in the Hamptons. I could picture every nook and cranny of the elegant Windmill Inn, not to mention the mouth-watering culinary offerings. The protagonist, Antonia, had a charming personality, and I loved the way she dealt with the most annoying of characters. The mystery itself was diabolically clever, with lots of twists and turns. A great start to a promising new series! I’m anxious for my next visit to the Windmill Inn.
July 26, 2018
Thank you Carrie Doyle and Frances Hart of Dunemere Books for the signed copy.
Book one in Carrie Doyle's Hamptons Murder Mystery series is a very enjoyable cozy mystery about Antonia Bingham's venture into the innkeeping business. In DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, Antonia becomes disheartened when she learns that the previous owners of her inn have all died under mysterious circumstances. So, in addition to her many responsibilities and the financial pressures related to her business, she has the sense of dread that she will be the next victim.
Doyle paints a detailed picture of the Hamptons, her characters, and the food Antonia enjoys serving at her inn. The reader has only to sit back and enjoy the tour, and watch as Antonia finds the murderer.
Book one in Carrie Doyle's Hamptons Murder Mystery series is a very enjoyable cozy mystery about Antonia Bingham's venture into the innkeeping business. In DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY, Antonia becomes disheartened when she learns that the previous owners of her inn have all died under mysterious circumstances. So, in addition to her many responsibilities and the financial pressures related to her business, she has the sense of dread that she will be the next victim.
Doyle paints a detailed picture of the Hamptons, her characters, and the food Antonia enjoys serving at her inn. The reader has only to sit back and enjoy the tour, and watch as Antonia finds the murderer.
June 13, 2017
Hamptons Murder Mysteries are indeed strictly for cosy mysteries fans. Its plus points include quaint Hampton setting, likeable female detective, lots of mention of mouth-watering delicacies and a host of delightful supporting characters. Unfortunately, the mystery part is rather predictable. The murderer is in plain sight of Antonia; the homegrown sleuth in this series. And after figuring out who the culprit is in Chapter 4, it felt rather tedious to finish the book. However, I was rather curious as to Antonia's romantic obsession with the charming movie star; Nick Darrow and will gleefully read the next book in the hopes that she will find her happy ending.
April 3, 2018
This book was a nice light mystery set on Long Island amidst both splendid mansions and more common folk. I found the characters well-fleshed out and the author did a marvelous job of describing the inn and the town settings. the dialog was snappy and the story easily moved along.
I sure was not bored - the ending was rather difficult to guess but worth the wait. I am looking forward to Mystery # 2 in the series! Recommend.
I sure was not bored - the ending was rather difficult to guess but worth the wait. I am looking forward to Mystery # 2 in the series! Recommend.
January 21, 2018
Nicely written cosy mystery with a good cast of "local" characters. The object at the centre of the murder plot - a windmill. Why is ownership of this building cause for the deaths of its owners. The author teases us with clues until the final denoument.
December 27, 2017
Quite fun
This is a little bon bon, a very fun mystery with a great setting, Easy Hampton, New York. I enjoyed this mystery, especially the witty asides thrown in by the author which are laugh out loud.
This is a little bon bon, a very fun mystery with a great setting, Easy Hampton, New York. I enjoyed this mystery, especially the witty asides thrown in by the author which are laugh out loud.
May 10, 2018
A cute cozy mystery that takes place in East Hampton. Fun descriptions and if you are familiar with this area probably more interesting. Not enough substance for how long is was.
May 1, 2020
Through NetGalley, I received a free copy of DEATH ON WINDMILL WAY (Book 1 of the Hamptons Murder Mysteries) by Carrie Doyle in exchange for an honest review. Antonia Bingham has purchased and luxuriously refurbished East Hampton’s Windmill Inn. Business is slowly increasing, but Antonia’s new business is still running in the red. When one of the guests informs Antonia that most of the previous owners have died under suspicious circumstances, Antonia’s lovely inn begins to seem more creepy than comforting. Before long, the person who sold the inn to Antonia dies under her own set of suspicious circumstances. Antonia then begins her hunt for the person making the spooky story a true tale. After all, Antonia doesn’t want to become the next victim of the local legend.
I thought this book was a good start to a new series. I liked that the author didn’t kick off the series by making the heroine or someone close to her a murder suspect. Instead, the author found a different way to give Antonia an interest in solving the case. I recommend this book to fans of Carrie Doyle and to fans of cozy mysteries featuring murder, inns, restaurants, new beginnings, and new businesses.
I thought this book was a good start to a new series. I liked that the author didn’t kick off the series by making the heroine or someone close to her a murder suspect. Instead, the author found a different way to give Antonia an interest in solving the case. I recommend this book to fans of Carrie Doyle and to fans of cozy mysteries featuring murder, inns, restaurants, new beginnings, and new businesses.
February 23, 2021
I'm really on the fence on this one. I loved all the description in the writing of the places and the foods, but I heartily disliked the foil and the main character. In the end, I came down on the side of the good writing, but that's not without a caveat.
Antonia Bingham sprang off the page as an interesting well-developed individual and I would have actually taken to her if not for her superficial judgements of anyone who didn't meet her body ideal. I was surprised by her bond with Joseph who didn't read as a particularly warm character designed to draw people in and so I just couldn't buy their strong friendship.
My main complaint is the foil, Larry Lipper. A vile persona, I couldn't see a justification for his words nor his actions. And Larry is the reason for my warning. While he has a horrible attitude towards women, I could have stomached most of his nonsense until he made such misogynistic and demeaning suggestions concerning Antonia's attire that my mild dislike of the character turned into absolute hatred. I nearly DNF'ed at that point.
The only bright point of the novel was the character of Nick Darrow. He came across and both likeable and unassuming which made it hard to reconcile his friendship with loathsome Larry. Nick has charisma - I was starstruck myself so I completely understood Antonia's reaction to him. If I do continue this series, it will be in the hopes of more time with Nick and everyone else mellowing out.
Antonia Bingham sprang off the page as an interesting well-developed individual and I would have actually taken to her if not for her superficial judgements of anyone who didn't meet her body ideal. I was surprised by her bond with Joseph who didn't read as a particularly warm character designed to draw people in and so I just couldn't buy their strong friendship.
My main complaint is the foil, Larry Lipper. A vile persona, I couldn't see a justification for his words nor his actions. And Larry is the reason for my warning. While he has a horrible attitude towards women, I could have stomached most of his nonsense until he made such misogynistic and demeaning suggestions concerning Antonia's attire that my mild dislike of the character turned into absolute hatred. I nearly DNF'ed at that point.
The only bright point of the novel was the character of Nick Darrow. He came across and both likeable and unassuming which made it hard to reconcile his friendship with loathsome Larry. Nick has charisma - I was starstruck myself so I completely understood Antonia's reaction to him. If I do continue this series, it will be in the hopes of more time with Nick and everyone else mellowing out.
November 6, 2020
5.0 out of 5 stars Extremely good cozy!
Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2020
I just love a cozy set in opulent surroundings! The characters are fleshed out and the story was well written. Plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest opinion
Reviewed in the United States on November 5, 2020
I just love a cozy set in opulent surroundings! The characters are fleshed out and the story was well written. Plenty of twists and turns to keep me guessing. I received an ARC from NetGalley and the publisher and this is my honest opinion
July 14, 2020
This is the first book in the new cozy series "Hamptons Murder Mystery" by cozy author Carrie Doyle.
Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity for review. My review opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this first in series with the perfect summer location of the Hamptons. The author perfectly describes the coastal enclave of a mix of locals and visiting wealthy types. The characters are richly defined and likable. The sleuthing was done to perfection. We are introduced to Antonio Bingham who wants to solve the mystery of who is killing the inn keepers at The Windmill Inn of which she is the new owner. As she researches the history and talks to the locals she finds out every previous inn keeper has died under mysterious circumstances. When a series of pranks occur to her she fears she may be next. She has the help of her trusty staff and friends in the local residents who help her decipher clues .
This was a fun sleuth that centered on both present and past. I love the descriptions of the old Inn and the supporting charcters. I look forward to reading further books in this fun new series set in the Hamptons.
Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity for review. My review opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this first in series with the perfect summer location of the Hamptons. The author perfectly describes the coastal enclave of a mix of locals and visiting wealthy types. The characters are richly defined and likable. The sleuthing was done to perfection. We are introduced to Antonio Bingham who wants to solve the mystery of who is killing the inn keepers at The Windmill Inn of which she is the new owner. As she researches the history and talks to the locals she finds out every previous inn keeper has died under mysterious circumstances. When a series of pranks occur to her she fears she may be next. She has the help of her trusty staff and friends in the local residents who help her decipher clues .
This was a fun sleuth that centered on both present and past. I love the descriptions of the old Inn and the supporting charcters. I look forward to reading further books in this fun new series set in the Hamptons.
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