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Castle Bookshop Mystery #3
A Deadly Chapter
Thousand Islands bookseller Shelby Cox is caught between a lethal rock and a hardheaded newcomer in Essie Lang's third Castle Bookshop mystery, a must-read for fans of Lorna Barrett and Vicki Delany.
Wake up on a houseboat, moored in scenic Alexandria Bay, New York. Ride the gentle waves to work at quaint Bayside Books, where you spend your days supplying literature and conversation to the charming locals and seasonal tourists. Sounds pleasant, doesn't it? Except bookseller Shelby Cox has already sleuthed two murders from Bayside Books's home base on Blye Island, one of New York State's famed Thousand Islands. And this time, mayhem knocks right on Shelby's waterside door when she finds a body lodged between the side of her houseboat and the dock, his skull shattered.
The victim is no local, but Shelby can't shake the feeling she's seen him before. Twice, in fact—that's how many times he's dropped into Bayside Books asking about an enigmatic woman who lived on Blye Island many years before. The last time? The day before he was found. But the poor man obviously was killed elsewhere, so who brought him down to the bay, and why?
When the victim's daughter hits town demanding answers, Shelby takes the case, despite Police Chief Tekla Stone's usual reservations. But she uncovers more suspects than there are pages in War and Peace, and Shelby can expect no peace—except the peace of the grave—unless she can turn the page on this grisly mystery.
Wake up on a houseboat, moored in scenic Alexandria Bay, New York. Ride the gentle waves to work at quaint Bayside Books, where you spend your days supplying literature and conversation to the charming locals and seasonal tourists. Sounds pleasant, doesn't it? Except bookseller Shelby Cox has already sleuthed two murders from Bayside Books's home base on Blye Island, one of New York State's famed Thousand Islands. And this time, mayhem knocks right on Shelby's waterside door when she finds a body lodged between the side of her houseboat and the dock, his skull shattered.
The victim is no local, but Shelby can't shake the feeling she's seen him before. Twice, in fact—that's how many times he's dropped into Bayside Books asking about an enigmatic woman who lived on Blye Island many years before. The last time? The day before he was found. But the poor man obviously was killed elsewhere, so who brought him down to the bay, and why?
When the victim's daughter hits town demanding answers, Shelby takes the case, despite Police Chief Tekla Stone's usual reservations. But she uncovers more suspects than there are pages in War and Peace, and Shelby can expect no peace—except the peace of the grave—unless she can turn the page on this grisly mystery.
320 pages, Hardcover
First published March 9, 2021
44 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
February 4, 2021
As I sat at home recovering from a broken elbow I found myself reading about a character who -broke her elbow! At least I was able to commiserate with Shelby's problems fully.
I enjoyed A Deadly Chapter: A Castle Bookshop Mystery very much. Shelby is an interesting main character. She lives on a houseboat with her cat, runs the local book shop, and has a Miss Marple like belief that the police cannot solve a crime without a bit of help. This of course gets her into a lot of trouble.
The story begins with the discovery of a body in the water near Shelby's boat and develops into an intriguing mystery. The author gives us a number of excellent characters, a gently developing romance, and some family issues for Shelby. There is a lot going on, all of it interesting.
This was my first book by this author and I will keep a lookout for her others.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
I enjoyed A Deadly Chapter: A Castle Bookshop Mystery very much. Shelby is an interesting main character. She lives on a houseboat with her cat, runs the local book shop, and has a Miss Marple like belief that the police cannot solve a crime without a bit of help. This of course gets her into a lot of trouble.
The story begins with the discovery of a body in the water near Shelby's boat and develops into an intriguing mystery. The author gives us a number of excellent characters, a gently developing romance, and some family issues for Shelby. There is a lot going on, all of it interesting.
This was my first book by this author and I will keep a lookout for her others.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
March 10, 2021
First, it must be established that this is most decidedly NOT a cozy mystery. This is a less-than-averagely written fiction that just happens to have a dead body in it. I knew by chapter 5 who the killer was and then had to sit through the rest of the book and all of Shelby's life and shenanigans that had precious little to do with the mystery itself [HOW many life disasters can one person have in one book?? It was a bit ridiculous]. Shelby should have taken time off from work for all the mooning and disconnectedness [HOW does her job even keep going is beyond me and she does pass a lot of stuff off on Laura in this book, though some of it is understandable with her arm issue] and stuff she had to deal with. It made for a very busy, very disjointed, very L O N G book. And the end with the reveal [FINALLY] of the murderer [which doesn't come until 93%] is extremely anticlimactic and do not EVEN get me started on the whole ending with Shelby and Zach.
Sigh.
I was really hoping that book 2 was a fluke and that this one would be better, but if anything, it was more problematic. Along with all of the above, there are major inconsistencies throughout the book [the MC unpacked the food from the cartons and then two pages later, her Aunt passes her the carton to serve herself from; wine with a screw top being touted as "expensive" and high end wine {no. just. no}, the MC walking to the library and the police station and then driving away etc etc etc] that just kept the book off balance [when the story-line was not] and was rather distracting.
With all this, I have to say I am done with this series. It is a huge disappointment because for the most part I like Shelby and I adore her Aunt Edie and Matthew and the supporting characters in the town. I just cannot deal with how poorly the last two were written and how little of a mystery was in this one. Very, very, disappointing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Essie Lang, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Sigh.
I was really hoping that book 2 was a fluke and that this one would be better, but if anything, it was more problematic. Along with all of the above, there are major inconsistencies throughout the book [the MC unpacked the food from the cartons and then two pages later, her Aunt passes her the carton to serve herself from; wine with a screw top being touted as "expensive" and high end wine {no. just. no}, the MC walking to the library and the police station and then driving away etc etc etc] that just kept the book off balance [when the story-line was not] and was rather distracting.
With all this, I have to say I am done with this series. It is a huge disappointment because for the most part I like Shelby and I adore her Aunt Edie and Matthew and the supporting characters in the town. I just cannot deal with how poorly the last two were written and how little of a mystery was in this one. Very, very, disappointing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Essie Lang, and Crooked Lane Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 23, 2021
Shelby loves living in a houseboat except when she finds a dead body floating next to her home. She knows, and is constantly reminded by the chief of police, that she shouldn't get involved. However the victim's daughter wants help to find out what happened and Shelby really wants to know too. Shelby soon finds her life is full of stress with the murder and two personal decisions that could change her life.
This is a solid mystery with a great setting. With three things going on of importance the reader really becomes connected wondering what will happen in the end. Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
This is a solid mystery with a great setting. With three things going on of importance the reader really becomes connected wondering what will happen in the end. Thanks to Crooked Lane Books and NetGalley for an ARC. The opinions expressed are my own.
May 1, 2021
This is the third book in the Castle Bookshop Mystery series.
What more could you look for in a cozy mystery? Nothing this one has it all, a dead body of course,a romantic island.a bookstore in a castle,a cat,living on a house boat and the characters are dynamic, very likable. You're going to want to read the whole series.
Pub Date 09 Mar 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own
What more could you look for in a cozy mystery? Nothing this one has it all, a dead body of course,a romantic island.a bookstore in a castle,a cat,living on a house boat and the characters are dynamic, very likable. You're going to want to read the whole series.
Pub Date 09 Mar 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own
June 16, 2021
A Deadly Chapter is the third installment in the “A Castle Bookshop Mystery” series. Shelby, a bookshop owner, and houseboat lover, has a knack for getting involved in murder investigations. Even when her family, friends, and the police tell her to stay out of it. She can’t help herself, she just happens to stumble across bodies, and there doesn’t appear to be any hope of her not getting into the thick of things.
Shelby is many things, a bookshop owner, a loyal friend, a compassionate niece, and a neighbor, but no matter how likable she may be, there are times when she is challenging to understand. I love her determination, the bookshop, her houseboat, all of which make her a unique character. But she is also a bit immature with a rebellious teenage nature. This character's greatest downfall is her inability to think before she acts, which significantly impacts the story.
A killer is not someone you want to mess with, invite to your place of work, or your houseboat. If they have killed once, there’s a good chance they will do it again if it means getting away with it. Shelby seems to invite trouble into her life, her business, and her romance. The victim is not someone she knows but has only spoken with twice, she doesn’t even know his name, yet she gets involved in investigating before the body is even cold. There are a few suspects, but none seem to have a valid motive for murdering a man. Evidence, although present, isn’t what it should be.
This series and A Deadly Chapter, in particular, has always had a few minor issues that are easily fixed. A few questions raised in this book were left unanswered, but none made a difference to the outcome. However, this can be a sticking point for some readers. Overall this book is enjoyable to read, has enough mystery to keep readers guessing, and a couple of twists that add value along the way. Shelby’s bookshop and houseboat are always a pleasure to visit, and her Aunt Edie is a wonderful character that many would like to spend more time with. The love interest is a bit rocky for a while, but in the end, it works out well. Readers will enjoy this book, but I highly suggest reading the other two in the series first.
Shelby is many things, a bookshop owner, a loyal friend, a compassionate niece, and a neighbor, but no matter how likable she may be, there are times when she is challenging to understand. I love her determination, the bookshop, her houseboat, all of which make her a unique character. But she is also a bit immature with a rebellious teenage nature. This character's greatest downfall is her inability to think before she acts, which significantly impacts the story.
A killer is not someone you want to mess with, invite to your place of work, or your houseboat. If they have killed once, there’s a good chance they will do it again if it means getting away with it. Shelby seems to invite trouble into her life, her business, and her romance. The victim is not someone she knows but has only spoken with twice, she doesn’t even know his name, yet she gets involved in investigating before the body is even cold. There are a few suspects, but none seem to have a valid motive for murdering a man. Evidence, although present, isn’t what it should be.
This series and A Deadly Chapter, in particular, has always had a few minor issues that are easily fixed. A few questions raised in this book were left unanswered, but none made a difference to the outcome. However, this can be a sticking point for some readers. Overall this book is enjoyable to read, has enough mystery to keep readers guessing, and a couple of twists that add value along the way. Shelby’s bookshop and houseboat are always a pleasure to visit, and her Aunt Edie is a wonderful character that many would like to spend more time with. The love interest is a bit rocky for a while, but in the end, it works out well. Readers will enjoy this book, but I highly suggest reading the other two in the series first.
September 16, 2020
Shelby Cox is on an emotional rollercoaster when a long-lost relative shows up and her romantic relationship faces a crucial juncture. Plus, a murdered body is found bumping against her houseboat. There is plenty of drama to fuel this story and keep the reader interested. And the mystery is solid.
I did enjoy the fact that the local police are not happy with Shelby investigating the murder. She makes mistakes that could result in dreadful consequences; she feels bad about it but it doesn't stop her from investigating more. She had to investigate more for there to be a story but I just wish there had been a better one to get her detecting again than how it happens.
Though this is the third in a series it can be read as a stand-alone. The characters are welcoming and I would love to spend the day with them. Plus, a charming location and a lovable cat makes this cozy a winner.
I was provided with a copy of the ARC by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
I did enjoy the fact that the local police are not happy with Shelby investigating the murder. She makes mistakes that could result in dreadful consequences; she feels bad about it but it doesn't stop her from investigating more. She had to investigate more for there to be a story but I just wish there had been a better one to get her detecting again than how it happens.
Though this is the third in a series it can be read as a stand-alone. The characters are welcoming and I would love to spend the day with them. Plus, a charming location and a lovable cat makes this cozy a winner.
I was provided with a copy of the ARC by Netgalley and the publisher in return for an honest review.
March 9, 2021
This series captivated me from the beginning and gets better with each novel! A booklover’s dream, we visit the beautiful Thousand Islands area of upstate NY, working in a bookstore in a castle on one of the islands. In this compelling third in series, there is a baffling mystery and a huge change of relationships for Shelby. The author’s descriptions of spring in Alexandria Bay brought it to life for this reader, and we learn more about the characters who have cobbled together a wonderful family.
Shelby returned to Alexandria Bay a year ago, where she had once lived when a very young child. For years, she had been told her mother had died, and only recently learned that her mother was still alive and had left Shelby and her father. She and Aunt Edie are is part owners of the two bookshops that Aunt Edie manages. She only planned help while Edie had surgery, then quickly grew to love her aunt and the area, and for the first time had real friends. She met Zach, an investigator with the Coast Guard, and they have grown close. She also helped solve two murders. She is not one of Sheriff Tekla Stone’s favorite residents, but they have forged a mutual respect.
Early one morning, Shelby saw a dead body between her houseboat and the dock. The man had a head injury, so either he fell and hit his head, or someone hit him and sent him into the water. Shelby knew the man slightly; Nathan had been in the bookstore at Blye Castle last fall, and again the day before. He was from Fulsome Falls and looking for a woman who may have moved there seven years earlier. He had been to the main bookstore, library, and various shops. Nobody recognized the woman’s name or photo. Shelby had no plans to look into his death. At least, not until learning that he was the father of a one of her acquaintances, Hilary, an artist who had a showing at the local gallery.
Zach has been in Buffalo on a special project. He has just been promoted and when finished in Buffalo, will have to move to Boston and would like Shelby to consider joining him. Shelby is happy to finally be with family and loves Edie and being mothered by her. She loves working at the bookstore at the castle and has close friends as she had never had when living in Boston before. Her choice is either a long-distance relationship, giving up Zach, or moving with him and being far from her beloved aunt and friends. Then her mother came to town wanting to make amends. Shelby is not ready to listen to her after being rejected by her for so many years, much less give her a second chance.
Helping Hilary talk with people about her father annoys the sheriff, but they do share a little information they find with her. The decision regarding Zach is huge, as is the one about her mother, both consuming her thoughts. Plot twists add suspects, especially as they learn about the consulting work Nathan did locally. The mystery unfolds at a perfect pace, and I enjoyed the castle bookstore, wondering what decisions Shelby would make, and who really killed Nathan. The twist at the end is a huge surprise! The ending is satisfactory, with no loose ends. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy unique settings, bookstores, and well-written cozy mysteries with a good balance of family and relationship challenges.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Shelby returned to Alexandria Bay a year ago, where she had once lived when a very young child. For years, she had been told her mother had died, and only recently learned that her mother was still alive and had left Shelby and her father. She and Aunt Edie are is part owners of the two bookshops that Aunt Edie manages. She only planned help while Edie had surgery, then quickly grew to love her aunt and the area, and for the first time had real friends. She met Zach, an investigator with the Coast Guard, and they have grown close. She also helped solve two murders. She is not one of Sheriff Tekla Stone’s favorite residents, but they have forged a mutual respect.
Early one morning, Shelby saw a dead body between her houseboat and the dock. The man had a head injury, so either he fell and hit his head, or someone hit him and sent him into the water. Shelby knew the man slightly; Nathan had been in the bookstore at Blye Castle last fall, and again the day before. He was from Fulsome Falls and looking for a woman who may have moved there seven years earlier. He had been to the main bookstore, library, and various shops. Nobody recognized the woman’s name or photo. Shelby had no plans to look into his death. At least, not until learning that he was the father of a one of her acquaintances, Hilary, an artist who had a showing at the local gallery.
Zach has been in Buffalo on a special project. He has just been promoted and when finished in Buffalo, will have to move to Boston and would like Shelby to consider joining him. Shelby is happy to finally be with family and loves Edie and being mothered by her. She loves working at the bookstore at the castle and has close friends as she had never had when living in Boston before. Her choice is either a long-distance relationship, giving up Zach, or moving with him and being far from her beloved aunt and friends. Then her mother came to town wanting to make amends. Shelby is not ready to listen to her after being rejected by her for so many years, much less give her a second chance.
Helping Hilary talk with people about her father annoys the sheriff, but they do share a little information they find with her. The decision regarding Zach is huge, as is the one about her mother, both consuming her thoughts. Plot twists add suspects, especially as they learn about the consulting work Nathan did locally. The mystery unfolds at a perfect pace, and I enjoyed the castle bookstore, wondering what decisions Shelby would make, and who really killed Nathan. The twist at the end is a huge surprise! The ending is satisfactory, with no loose ends. I highly recommend this to those who enjoy unique settings, bookstores, and well-written cozy mysteries with a good balance of family and relationship challenges.
From a thankful heart: I received an ARC of this novel from the publisher through NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
March 27, 2021
Cozy mystery series set in a bookshop in a castle. Decent mystery....I did not figure out who the killer was.
October 21, 2020
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!
I have no idea how cozy authors manage to make me so jealous of beautiful locations and setting for books! I really want to live somewhere with a castle, with a bookstore in it that has another store on the mainland. It sounds like a fantasy! I could even handle living on the houseboat if I had such a dream job. Ahem. But enough of that. The mystery! Well, as always with this series, you are intrigued right from the beginning, and hook line and sinker you find yourself desperate to know how it ends. You start going over the clues yourself, wondering what you missed and if a conversation meant more than was originally described. Who could have committed the crime?
I know I say this about a lot of series, but this is one of my favorites. The setting and the characters are always a win and worth returning to. Five stars!
I have no idea how cozy authors manage to make me so jealous of beautiful locations and setting for books! I really want to live somewhere with a castle, with a bookstore in it that has another store on the mainland. It sounds like a fantasy! I could even handle living on the houseboat if I had such a dream job. Ahem. But enough of that. The mystery! Well, as always with this series, you are intrigued right from the beginning, and hook line and sinker you find yourself desperate to know how it ends. You start going over the clues yourself, wondering what you missed and if a conversation meant more than was originally described. Who could have committed the crime?
I know I say this about a lot of series, but this is one of my favorites. The setting and the characters are always a win and worth returning to. Five stars!
November 29, 2020
Aunt Edie and Matthew trumped the lead character, Shelby, in my books. The characters are deep and relatable and offered Shelby both support and love.
I struggled to relate to many of Sehlby's perspectives and her complicated relationship with her boyfriend,Zack. I also couldn't understand why someone would ask a relative stranger to assist her find a murderer when the police were investigating. Her 'bull-in-a-china-shop" approach endangered innocent people. Hmmm...
There were a few twists and turns in the solving of the mystery that I am sure many readers of the cozy, murder mystery genre will enjoy.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Crooked Lane Publishers and the author for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
I struggled to relate to many of Sehlby's perspectives and her complicated relationship with her boyfriend,Zack. I also couldn't understand why someone would ask a relative stranger to assist her find a murderer when the police were investigating. Her 'bull-in-a-china-shop" approach endangered innocent people. Hmmm...
There were a few twists and turns in the solving of the mystery that I am sure many readers of the cozy, murder mystery genre will enjoy.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Crooked Lane Publishers and the author for my advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
January 13, 2021
Author Essie Lang knows how to grab the reader's attention from the start. The mystery is full of twists and turns. The characters s are relatable and intriguing. I look forward to the next book in the series to see how the characters continue to develop.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
All thoughts and opinions are my own, and in no way have I been influenced by anyone.
April 6, 2021
This is the third book in Essie Lang's 'Castle Bookshop Mystery' series. Shelby Cox has now lived in Alexandra Bay, NY, for a year. Having moved from Boston, where she worked as an editor, to help her aunt Edie run the two "Bayside Books" bookstores they co-own in Alexandria Bay and on Blye Island (Blye Castle).
This time, Shelby wakes up to find the body of a man floating directly next to her houseboat. The man is identified as Nathan Miller, who at times visited the area for work. Strangely, he kept an eagle feather in his pocket, also indicating he was not killed near Shelby's houseboat. It turns out that Shelby had spoken to Nathan in her bookstore the day before, as he reminded her of his previous visit and that he was still looking for a woman who had moved to the area 7 years ago.
Shelby joins forces with Nathan's daughter Hilary, a local artist, to find the woman Nathan was looking for and to catch his killer. Much to the dismay of the local police chief Tekla Stone, who disapproves of Shelby's sleuthing, especially because Shelby was the one to solve the previous two murders. While some crucial missteps first endanger someone else, and then Shelby, she ends up solving the case with her wit and quick thinking.
While trying to solve the murder and finding the mystery woman, Shelby has to make some important decisions regarding her relationship with her boyfriend, coastguard Zack. Emotions are also running high when a lot more is revealed about Shelby’s long lost mysterious mother.
It felt like there was less sleuthing going on and also less action in this book in comparison to the first, which I did miss a little bit. I really enjoyed reading the first book in the series, so was delighted to have been approved for this one. It is absolutely inconceivable that I somehow missed reading the second book in the series. I will have to rectify that ASAP. I will definitely read all future books in the series.
The book can be read as part of the series or on its own and the plot does not require knowledge of the previous books. It was well-written and a pleasure to read and the location is stunning. If the coronavirus pandemic ever ends, maybe I can visit the US again and finally see Alexandria Bay/ the Thousand Islands.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, as well as Essie Lang for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This time, Shelby wakes up to find the body of a man floating directly next to her houseboat. The man is identified as Nathan Miller, who at times visited the area for work. Strangely, he kept an eagle feather in his pocket, also indicating he was not killed near Shelby's houseboat. It turns out that Shelby had spoken to Nathan in her bookstore the day before, as he reminded her of his previous visit and that he was still looking for a woman who had moved to the area 7 years ago.
Shelby joins forces with Nathan's daughter Hilary, a local artist, to find the woman Nathan was looking for and to catch his killer. Much to the dismay of the local police chief Tekla Stone, who disapproves of Shelby's sleuthing, especially because Shelby was the one to solve the previous two murders. While some crucial missteps first endanger someone else, and then Shelby, she ends up solving the case with her wit and quick thinking.
While trying to solve the murder and finding the mystery woman, Shelby has to make some important decisions regarding her relationship with her boyfriend, coastguard Zack. Emotions are also running high when a lot more is revealed about Shelby’s long lost mysterious mother.
It felt like there was less sleuthing going on and also less action in this book in comparison to the first, which I did miss a little bit. I really enjoyed reading the first book in the series, so was delighted to have been approved for this one. It is absolutely inconceivable that I somehow missed reading the second book in the series. I will have to rectify that ASAP. I will definitely read all future books in the series.
The book can be read as part of the series or on its own and the plot does not require knowledge of the previous books. It was well-written and a pleasure to read and the location is stunning. If the coronavirus pandemic ever ends, maybe I can visit the US again and finally see Alexandria Bay/ the Thousand Islands.
Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books, as well as Essie Lang for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 2, 2020
Reading a book is supposed to take the reader away, to another place and time, one that will put a smile on your face, and reunite you with old friends. This is exactly what A Deadly Chapter did for me.
Catching up with Shelby Cox, her Aunt Edie, and the other wonderful characters is always fun and exciting.
Visiting Alexandria Bay, the local shops, and of course, Shelby's book store, Bayside Books is definitely a guilty pleasure for this reader.
Shelby has a happy life, she loves her job, her aunt, and things with her boyfriend Zack seem to be going in the right direction.
When out on her houseboat early one morning, she notices something wedged in the water, and as soon as she notices it's a body, she knows that she's in for one heck of a day.
The police chief knows Shelby has a habit of getting involved in her investigations, so she promptly suggests Shelby keep out of it. Since we all know Shelby can't resist a good mystery, it's no wonder she gets involved.
Fast forward to her bookstore in the lovely Blye Castle, where she's helping to coordinate a mystery event with the local library, as well as finding out that the castle also has a problem with theft. Shelby gets caught in the middle as a thief makes a getaway, injuring herself at the same time.
Even though her injury prevents her from being too nosy, she still finds a way to ask questions, much to the chagrin of the local police and her family.
There is so much going on in this book, that I couldn't possibly fit it all into my review, but all I can say is WOW, so much was unexpected, but exciting at the same time.
Thanks to NetGalley and Essie Lang, author, for letting me read this advanced copy. I am excited to see what happens next for this cast of wonderful characters.
#ADeadlyChapter #NetGalley
Catching up with Shelby Cox, her Aunt Edie, and the other wonderful characters is always fun and exciting.
Visiting Alexandria Bay, the local shops, and of course, Shelby's book store, Bayside Books is definitely a guilty pleasure for this reader.
Shelby has a happy life, she loves her job, her aunt, and things with her boyfriend Zack seem to be going in the right direction.
When out on her houseboat early one morning, she notices something wedged in the water, and as soon as she notices it's a body, she knows that she's in for one heck of a day.
The police chief knows Shelby has a habit of getting involved in her investigations, so she promptly suggests Shelby keep out of it. Since we all know Shelby can't resist a good mystery, it's no wonder she gets involved.
Fast forward to her bookstore in the lovely Blye Castle, where she's helping to coordinate a mystery event with the local library, as well as finding out that the castle also has a problem with theft. Shelby gets caught in the middle as a thief makes a getaway, injuring herself at the same time.
Even though her injury prevents her from being too nosy, she still finds a way to ask questions, much to the chagrin of the local police and her family.
There is so much going on in this book, that I couldn't possibly fit it all into my review, but all I can say is WOW, so much was unexpected, but exciting at the same time.
Thanks to NetGalley and Essie Lang, author, for letting me read this advanced copy. I am excited to see what happens next for this cast of wonderful characters.
#ADeadlyChapter #NetGalley
November 16, 2020
A Deadly Chapter is the third book in the Castle Bookshop Mystery series. It can easily be enjoyed as a standalone if you haven't read the others as there isn't really too much carryover. The characters relationships continue to evolve but you're not missing too much stepping in now and they mystery/murder itself is fully contained within.
I really enjoyed the premise of having our nice cozy bookshop on the island and it being this quaint picturesque setting. I could easily imagine the setting and scenery described and readers are transported there. There's something about the small town/closed society that adds that extra element trying to figure out if the "bad guy" is someone in the community or someone who's come in from the outside. You know what they say; "Everyone's a suspect."
The pushback Shelby gets from local law enforcement gives us that element of fun because we can feel their (and her) frustration with one another. Is she making their job harder or helping point them in the right direction? Throw some family and relationship drama into the mix and that pretty much sums up this story.
I received an advanced copy of this story from the author through NetGalley and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
I really enjoyed the premise of having our nice cozy bookshop on the island and it being this quaint picturesque setting. I could easily imagine the setting and scenery described and readers are transported there. There's something about the small town/closed society that adds that extra element trying to figure out if the "bad guy" is someone in the community or someone who's come in from the outside. You know what they say; "Everyone's a suspect."
The pushback Shelby gets from local law enforcement gives us that element of fun because we can feel their (and her) frustration with one another. Is she making their job harder or helping point them in the right direction? Throw some family and relationship drama into the mix and that pretty much sums up this story.
I received an advanced copy of this story from the author through NetGalley and am leaving a voluntary honest review.
December 24, 2020
*I received an ARC from netgalley in exchange for an honest review*
I have to say I was a little skeptical about reading this book because I've always had a (highly irrational..) urge to avoid cozy murders that have a cat on the front. I love cats, I love cozy murders, but somehow these covers always put me off. I'm glad to say my unfounded assumptions at least in this instance were entirely wrong and now I'm going to have to go back and read the first two books of the series.
This isn't a super bookish bookstore cozy mystery. If you really enjoy the deep dive kind of book info that's peppered throughout Lauren Elliott or Vicki Delaney's cozy murders you won't find it here - BUT I think regardless you'll still find a great amount of enjoyment in the read. It's a well-constructed small town mystery.
As with all small town cozies there are a lot of characters, but they're introduced methodically and in a slow enough (but not dragging) fashion that you can remember them as they come along.
There are a few aspects of this book that I really love. The police chief is an older woman, and a lot of the cast are older women - who are presented as active, interesting, multi-faceted people. The police detectives in this genre are almost always men, and almost always romantically entangled with the amateur lady sleuth, so this aspect is so refreshing!
The standard cozy romantic subplot is evident, but there is no love triangle (thank god.. do love triangles exist? sure! does every amateur sleuth need to be in one? god no) and there is actual chemistry between Shelby and Zack. The romantic subplot does start to overwhelm the novel in the middle to later stages (where tje plot does get Very Busy), but the natural affection between the two - and the fact that the book actually hints at physical romance beyond kissing between them (another of my petty annoyances - female amateur sleuths can have sex lives! And cozy murder readers aren't all chaste people who will riot at the suggestion!) definitely makes up for it.
The writing is solid, the important characters a likeable, and the setting works really well (and I think promises the possibility of a lot of interesting plots to come).
One thing that really stuck out to me though and maybe someone can explain to me if they come across this review - do people in the state of New York use language that is more... British? From the very beginning there are scones, jam, loose leaf tea, and Aunt Edie doing a full sunday dinner with roast beef and yorkshire puddings. But apparently her home was built in the 1920s and has always beeb in the family. Very britishy things and something I've only encountered in books set in the US that have a specifically designated british character. Its not a oeeve or amything - just a curiosity!
I have to say I was a little skeptical about reading this book because I've always had a (highly irrational..) urge to avoid cozy murders that have a cat on the front. I love cats, I love cozy murders, but somehow these covers always put me off. I'm glad to say my unfounded assumptions at least in this instance were entirely wrong and now I'm going to have to go back and read the first two books of the series.
This isn't a super bookish bookstore cozy mystery. If you really enjoy the deep dive kind of book info that's peppered throughout Lauren Elliott or Vicki Delaney's cozy murders you won't find it here - BUT I think regardless you'll still find a great amount of enjoyment in the read. It's a well-constructed small town mystery.
As with all small town cozies there are a lot of characters, but they're introduced methodically and in a slow enough (but not dragging) fashion that you can remember them as they come along.
There are a few aspects of this book that I really love. The police chief is an older woman, and a lot of the cast are older women - who are presented as active, interesting, multi-faceted people. The police detectives in this genre are almost always men, and almost always romantically entangled with the amateur lady sleuth, so this aspect is so refreshing!
The standard cozy romantic subplot is evident, but there is no love triangle (thank god.. do love triangles exist? sure! does every amateur sleuth need to be in one? god no) and there is actual chemistry between Shelby and Zack. The romantic subplot does start to overwhelm the novel in the middle to later stages (where tje plot does get Very Busy), but the natural affection between the two - and the fact that the book actually hints at physical romance beyond kissing between them (another of my petty annoyances - female amateur sleuths can have sex lives! And cozy murder readers aren't all chaste people who will riot at the suggestion!) definitely makes up for it.
The writing is solid, the important characters a likeable, and the setting works really well (and I think promises the possibility of a lot of interesting plots to come).
One thing that really stuck out to me though and maybe someone can explain to me if they come across this review - do people in the state of New York use language that is more... British? From the very beginning there are scones, jam, loose leaf tea, and Aunt Edie doing a full sunday dinner with roast beef and yorkshire puddings. But apparently her home was built in the 1920s and has always beeb in the family. Very britishy things and something I've only encountered in books set in the US that have a specifically designated british character. Its not a oeeve or amything - just a curiosity!
April 9, 2021
A Deadly Chapter is the third instalment in the 'Castle Bookshop Mystery' series. I have read all three books and I absolutely adore this series! It has an amazing setting - a bookshop in a castle, no less, and an eye-catching, colourful front cover.
There aren’t many settings as perfect as a bookshop located within a castle, and Essie Lang made great use of this. Blye Castle is in a fine lakeside town, with a real sense of community and a general feeling of nostalgia. This, as well as a town full of secrets, made it a brilliant backdrop for a murder investigation.
A Deadly Chapter sees the return of protagonist Shelby Cox, who has the necessary attributes of any great sleuth - intelligence, curiosity and attention to detail. Also making a reappearance, much to my delight, is Shelby’s endearing, plucky and strong-willed Aunt Edie, of whom I am especially fond.
In this instalment, Shelby sleeps late after a couple of wines the night before. She's in rush to get to the bookshop at Alexandria Bay but whilst deciding what jumper to wear before she sets off from her rented houseboat, she hears an unusual noise. When she goes onto the upper back deck of the boat, she discovers a body, facedown in the water, jammed between the dock and the boat, the head caved in. She calls the police and waits for Chief Tekla Stone who eventually identifies the victim. The man, Nathan Miller, who kept an eagle feather in his pocket, had visited the bookshops at both the Blye Castle store and the store at Alexandria Bay, New York state enquiring about a woman who used to live nearby. Shelby begins to investigate with the victim's daughter much to the dismay of the police chief.
This book has many of the components that make a really good story: from the mood and undercurrents to the very clever writing. The details of the plot were brilliantly executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The end is perfectly satisfactory, with all loose ends neatly tied up. I highly recommend A Deadly Chapter to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries. This is a series I really enjoy, and I very much look forward to my next outing with Shelby and Aunt Edie!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
There aren’t many settings as perfect as a bookshop located within a castle, and Essie Lang made great use of this. Blye Castle is in a fine lakeside town, with a real sense of community and a general feeling of nostalgia. This, as well as a town full of secrets, made it a brilliant backdrop for a murder investigation.
A Deadly Chapter sees the return of protagonist Shelby Cox, who has the necessary attributes of any great sleuth - intelligence, curiosity and attention to detail. Also making a reappearance, much to my delight, is Shelby’s endearing, plucky and strong-willed Aunt Edie, of whom I am especially fond.
In this instalment, Shelby sleeps late after a couple of wines the night before. She's in rush to get to the bookshop at Alexandria Bay but whilst deciding what jumper to wear before she sets off from her rented houseboat, she hears an unusual noise. When she goes onto the upper back deck of the boat, she discovers a body, facedown in the water, jammed between the dock and the boat, the head caved in. She calls the police and waits for Chief Tekla Stone who eventually identifies the victim. The man, Nathan Miller, who kept an eagle feather in his pocket, had visited the bookshops at both the Blye Castle store and the store at Alexandria Bay, New York state enquiring about a woman who used to live nearby. Shelby begins to investigate with the victim's daughter much to the dismay of the police chief.
This book has many of the components that make a really good story: from the mood and undercurrents to the very clever writing. The details of the plot were brilliantly executed and every chapter left me with a compelling need to read on. The end is perfectly satisfactory, with all loose ends neatly tied up. I highly recommend A Deadly Chapter to those who appreciate well-written cozy mysteries. This is a series I really enjoy, and I very much look forward to my next outing with Shelby and Aunt Edie!
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
March 10, 2021
This is the 3rd in series and my favorite one of the series. I have read the previous in series and enjoy returning to this series. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley for the opportunity. The setting is beautiful island life and a bookstore in a castle . All Bibliophiles will love the bookstore in this series. What could be better then owning a charming bookstore in a castle and living on a houseboat. This series is full of charm and sweeps the reader away to the island life.
We return to scenic Alexandria Bay, New York and the island home of Shelby who co owns a bookstore on one of the scenic smaller islands. Shelby has a bit of a reputation for solving murders and now has found a dead body at her bookstore. As she delves back into sleuthing while running her store she finds suspects abound and red herrings plenty to keep her guessing as to the suspect. She has a talent for pushing forward to find the right suspect much to the chagrin of the local police.
I loved this next in series. The author has a talent for writing great charcters and interesting sleuths. I look forward to the next in series.
We return to scenic Alexandria Bay, New York and the island home of Shelby who co owns a bookstore on one of the scenic smaller islands. Shelby has a bit of a reputation for solving murders and now has found a dead body at her bookstore. As she delves back into sleuthing while running her store she finds suspects abound and red herrings plenty to keep her guessing as to the suspect. She has a talent for pushing forward to find the right suspect much to the chagrin of the local police.
I loved this next in series. The author has a talent for writing great charcters and interesting sleuths. I look forward to the next in series.
March 17, 2021
This is the second book I've read in this series. I missed the first book, which put me a little behind on the second book, but the author has caught me up and I know who's who now.
I enjoyed this book on several levels. First of all, the characters are becoming more alive for me. I love Edie. She is full of heart and loves Shelby like a daughter. Shelby discovers her mother in this book. She has mixed feelings considering all that happened in her childhood. I also loved the story and the fact she lives on a houseboat is interesting to me. The Castle and the bookstore play roles in this book as well.
All in all, I thought this book was great! I hope to read the next in the series! Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!
I enjoyed this book on several levels. First of all, the characters are becoming more alive for me. I love Edie. She is full of heart and loves Shelby like a daughter. Shelby discovers her mother in this book. She has mixed feelings considering all that happened in her childhood. I also loved the story and the fact she lives on a houseboat is interesting to me. The Castle and the bookstore play roles in this book as well.
All in all, I thought this book was great! I hope to read the next in the series! Thank you to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for the opportunity to read and review this book!
August 20, 2021
A Deadly Chapter by Essie Lang is such a great cozy mystery. I enjoyed I tremendously and can’t wait for the next book.
In this story Shelby living in a houseboat on the Alexandria Bay finds a body with the skull shattered. A seasoned sleuth needs to find out why someone who is not a local is dead by her boat. As she begins her investigation she realizes she has met him before.
Things become complicated when she realizes that the murder victim was killed elsewhere and dumped by her houseboat. This is not an easy case. Will she prevail?
Very well written with great characters. Highly recommend A Deadly Chapter.
In this story Shelby living in a houseboat on the Alexandria Bay finds a body with the skull shattered. A seasoned sleuth needs to find out why someone who is not a local is dead by her boat. As she begins her investigation she realizes she has met him before.
Things become complicated when she realizes that the murder victim was killed elsewhere and dumped by her houseboat. This is not an easy case. Will she prevail?
Very well written with great characters. Highly recommend A Deadly Chapter.
February 19, 2021
4.5 stars
This is the third book in the Castle Bookshop mystery series by Essie Lang.
This mystery was quite convoluted but it really works. I wish there was more bookish things in this bookstore mystery but beggars can’t be choosers. And the cast seemed a bit tilted to the female side. Not just female but older females. I understand theme books but this seemed a bit much to me. Minor characters threatened to take this over at times.
Overall it is a good read. I love the castle setting and the mystery itself was my favorite part, I think. Definitely will check out other books in this series.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
This is the third book in the Castle Bookshop mystery series by Essie Lang.
This mystery was quite convoluted but it really works. I wish there was more bookish things in this bookstore mystery but beggars can’t be choosers. And the cast seemed a bit tilted to the female side. Not just female but older females. I understand theme books but this seemed a bit much to me. Minor characters threatened to take this over at times.
Overall it is a good read. I love the castle setting and the mystery itself was my favorite part, I think. Definitely will check out other books in this series.
If you like cozy mysteries, definitely check this one out. You won’t be disappointed.
I received this as an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) in return for an honest review. I thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this title.
May 2, 2021
This is the 3rd book in this series and this time Shelby finds a body as she is getting out of her houseboat one morning. Not what she was expecting. This time she does try and stay out of the investigation. She has a couple of things that happen to her which does distract her altogether. She has an unexpected visitor from her pass and Seth decides to pop a question that she was not ready for.
March 12, 2021
Despite my obsession with bookstore-set cozy mysteries, I really can't warm up to this series. The writing is truly clunky. Matters aren't helped by a terrible audiobook reader. Three stars is generous. Meh
December 8, 2023
Il libro non è male, ma sono un po' arrabbiata con la protagonista perché continua a indagare senza poi informare il capo della polizia, che pure mi sembra disposta ad ascoltarla; in più si prende dei rischi veramente inutili. Comunque, questa serie finisce qui e, secondo me, resta un po' in sospeso la faccenda della famiglia della protagonista.
July 19, 2021
This takes place in the spring. The story focuses on the main character's relationships, mainly her romantic one. I didn't like the way that part of the story ended. The mystery was interesting, but it was secondary. It involved a dead body in the lake, blackmail, and adultery.
November 13, 2020
I have never read any books in this series but I plan on going back and ready them after this book. I loved reading Shelby trying to figure out the murder. I liked the idea of a bookstore on an island in a castle. I like the authors writing and involving the characters.
November 17, 2020
Shelby Cox is back and boy is she on an emotional rollercoaster this time! Shelby has now been living in Alexandra Bay for a year and she is still helping her aunt run the two two "Bayside Books" bookstores they own together. She is also still live on her houseboat where a body is found bumping against it. Okay, I have to say this, if I was living in a houseboat and body ( a murder victim at that) is bumping against it I would move that minute! I'm just saying, that would freak me out a bit.
Shelby begins to investigate with the victim's daughter much to the dismay of the police chief. She does make a few mistakes that could have ended up deadly but Shelby persists. I swear I kept waiting for the police chief to start getting that eye tick that the chief had with Inspector Clouseau had (if you've seen those movies you know what I'm talking about.) Shelby as always is such a joy to read and take a journey to figure out what happened with.
This is the third book of the series and can easily be read on its own. I recommend going back and reading the first two because this is such a wonderful series adn the characters are so much fun.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
Shelby begins to investigate with the victim's daughter much to the dismay of the police chief. She does make a few mistakes that could have ended up deadly but Shelby persists. I swear I kept waiting for the police chief to start getting that eye tick that the chief had with Inspector Clouseau had (if you've seen those movies you know what I'm talking about.) Shelby as always is such a joy to read and take a journey to figure out what happened with.
This is the third book of the series and can easily be read on its own. I recommend going back and reading the first two because this is such a wonderful series adn the characters are so much fun.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review. This review was originally posted on Wickedly Romance
December 30, 2021
Wow! There was a lot of non-mystery things going on in this one, involving various parts of Shelby's life. While she discovered a dead body floating in the water next to her houseboat in the opening pages, the mystery often took a back seat to her personal drama. At times it felt as if the author just threw in too many things into this book. It wasn't a bad read, but too much happening at times, and Shelby took far too many chances with her life for me.
October 27, 2020
Every single thing about this series is enchanting and this latest installment just adds to the charm. Shelby finds herself once again investigating a body, this time one she finds herself, right outside of her door. Every clue just adds to the mystery and leaves the reader on the edge of their seat. A book and series that is standing the test of time!
January 14, 2021
The best cozy mystery series let you go live in an unfamiliar place and different lifestyle with the greatest of ease. Essie Lang fully succeeds in this with her book Deadly Chapters. Shelby Cox lives on a houseboat and works at a bookstore on a small island with a “castle,” one of several in New York, yet something I never knew before. Although Shelby has only lived in Alexandra Bay a short time, she has found her roots and footing here. She’s begun to feel secure and grounded but faces a major challenge to that soon. But even before she reaches that, she discovers a body in the water by her home.
Shelby also soon realizes that she knows the man found in the water—not by name, but as a visitor to her bookshop where he asked about finding a woman he was looking for. Then Shelby discovers that she not only knows the victim’s daughter, but that she wants Shelby to help her find out more. Chief Tekla tries to dissuade her, and events with her boyfriend and their relationship distract her. Worse yet, Shelby discovers that her mother wants to re-establish a relationship with her after abandoning her as a young child. With her support system of her Aunt and friends, Shelby plunges forward through it all.
This is the third book in the series but works well as a stand-alone book. I had not read the previous books and did not need additional background to enjoy this volume. The evocative setting is a strength of the book, helping make this a great escape to another. The multiple suspects will also keep the reader guessing both what happened and why the victim was looking for a mystery woman.
Shelby also soon realizes that she knows the man found in the water—not by name, but as a visitor to her bookshop where he asked about finding a woman he was looking for. Then Shelby discovers that she not only knows the victim’s daughter, but that she wants Shelby to help her find out more. Chief Tekla tries to dissuade her, and events with her boyfriend and their relationship distract her. Worse yet, Shelby discovers that her mother wants to re-establish a relationship with her after abandoning her as a young child. With her support system of her Aunt and friends, Shelby plunges forward through it all.
This is the third book in the series but works well as a stand-alone book. I had not read the previous books and did not need additional background to enjoy this volume. The evocative setting is a strength of the book, helping make this a great escape to another. The multiple suspects will also keep the reader guessing both what happened and why the victim was looking for a mystery woman.
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