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The Mila K. Mysteries #1
The Final Assignment
Mila stood in front of the University of Chernivtsi, and it was like time had stood still. The gate and the buildings looked the same as when she was a student there, and yet somehow, she was the one who had changed and aged. Of course, nobody could call her old. Mila was thirty-two, but today she felt older than the university.
Mila remembered when she left for her Ph.D. in Kyiv; she was heartbroken and swore she would never return to her hometown. However, life has a way of interfering with people’s plans and Mila was no exception…
First her mother died, then her father retired because of a heart condition, and Mila knew she had to come home to take care of him. It was a good excuse to return when a call came from her best friend that a professor position was open at the university.
So, there she was, all dressed up and ready to confront a past demon and prove herself more than capable to become a professor…
Mila Kovalenko has returned to her alma mater to fill the vacant position of professor of ancient history.
Happy to reunite with her best friend Ania, the university’s librarian, they discuss a manuscript that has come to Ania’s attention. No sooner had Mila signed her contract when someone steals the manuscript from the library.
However, when the detective assigned to the case pegs her as the prime suspect, Mila must use her expertise and cunning to prove him wrong, or at least find another motive and suspect.
Realizing the book is more dangerous than it appears, and its origins are even more evil than they thought, Mila hopes to help the detective find the book before it falls into the wrong hands. However, the detective is not so willing to accept her help, infuriating Mila, if only he wasn’t so annoying, she could grow to like him, he was quite attractive…
Mila remembered when she left for her Ph.D. in Kyiv; she was heartbroken and swore she would never return to her hometown. However, life has a way of interfering with people’s plans and Mila was no exception…
First her mother died, then her father retired because of a heart condition, and Mila knew she had to come home to take care of him. It was a good excuse to return when a call came from her best friend that a professor position was open at the university.
So, there she was, all dressed up and ready to confront a past demon and prove herself more than capable to become a professor…
Mila Kovalenko has returned to her alma mater to fill the vacant position of professor of ancient history.
Happy to reunite with her best friend Ania, the university’s librarian, they discuss a manuscript that has come to Ania’s attention. No sooner had Mila signed her contract when someone steals the manuscript from the library.
However, when the detective assigned to the case pegs her as the prime suspect, Mila must use her expertise and cunning to prove him wrong, or at least find another motive and suspect.
Realizing the book is more dangerous than it appears, and its origins are even more evil than they thought, Mila hopes to help the detective find the book before it falls into the wrong hands. However, the detective is not so willing to accept her help, infuriating Mila, if only he wasn’t so annoying, she could grow to like him, he was quite attractive…
- GenresMysteryCozy Mystery
61 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 26, 2020
87 people are currently reading
116 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
January 9, 2021
First off: this is marketed as a Cozy Mystery. By definition, Cozy Mysteries do NOT employ any but the mildest profanity. This employed frequent profanity; not only f-bombs, but also numerous cases of God's name taken in vain. There are numerous typos and at times, it felt like I was reading a bad Google translation. There was NO attempt to explain or develop characters until the final chapter where the author hurriedly unveiled the mystery and just as quickly dismissed all the book's 1 dimensional characters. Really and truly a book that needs to be thrown in the rubbish, which is right where it belongs. I will never read another of this author's attempts at literature and I would happily advise any and all to do the same thing.
March 21, 2021
Final Assignment is a cute, atypical mystery/thriller. Set in Russia, the story features strong female lead characters.
I found the plot to be a little rushed and the characters not well fleshed out. However, the story had some intriguing twists and links to fascinating historical myths.
A nice, quick read for an evening.
I found the plot to be a little rushed and the characters not well fleshed out. However, the story had some intriguing twists and links to fascinating historical myths.
A nice, quick read for an evening.
January 24, 2021
Mila returns to teach at her alma mater after many years away. Little does she know that she is going to be thrust into an intriguing case of theft when history and present-day violently clash.
I'm at a loss as to how to review this. The plot was unique and exciting but the language was stilted. The story was enjoyable but wrapped up very quickly at the end and I wasn't a fan of Mila who seemed a little "rough and tumble" for a professor.
To breakdown my rating: I averaged my feelings for the story (4 stars) with my feelings for the characters (2 stars) and took off 2 stars for language and Language (3 stars). I'd loved to have given more, but it needs more editing.
I'm at a loss as to how to review this. The plot was unique and exciting but the language was stilted. The story was enjoyable but wrapped up very quickly at the end and I wasn't a fan of Mila who seemed a little "rough and tumble" for a professor.
To breakdown my rating: I averaged my feelings for the story (4 stars) with my feelings for the characters (2 stars) and took off 2 stars for language and Language (3 stars). I'd loved to have given more, but it needs more editing.
August 17, 2021
It was believed that the manuscript was destroyed by a fire, but the inquirer knew better.
Brother John (former leader) did things by the book.
Professor Denys Kulik (U of Chernivtsi) was Brother John’s confidant, but he had passed away also.
Chernivtsi, W. Ukraine. U of Chernivtsi. Dr/Professor Mila Kovalenko (32, PhD) was anxious to start her job teaching ancient history.
Ivan Dimitri Popov (20+, student) greeted her when she walked into the building.
Dean Dr/Professor Pietro Melnik (PhD) interviewed & hired her.
Ania (BFF, librarian) invited Mila to the pub & catch up.
Kostiantyn Tomashchuk made a very important contribution to our Scientific Library. The 148th book of the 147 that were donated is unusual.
Ania had called Dr/Professor Mila Kovalenko but was not picking up her cell.
Detective Oleck Popov integrated Dr/Professor Kovalenko.
Vladyslav Kovalenko father, retired PD Captain heart condition) had arrived & was speaking with Detective Popov.
Somebody broke in & stole the mysterious manuscript.
Will the mysterious manuscript be recovered & the thief brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
Brother John (former leader) did things by the book.
Professor Denys Kulik (U of Chernivtsi) was Brother John’s confidant, but he had passed away also.
Chernivtsi, W. Ukraine. U of Chernivtsi. Dr/Professor Mila Kovalenko (32, PhD) was anxious to start her job teaching ancient history.
Ivan Dimitri Popov (20+, student) greeted her when she walked into the building.
Dean Dr/Professor Pietro Melnik (PhD) interviewed & hired her.
Ania (BFF, librarian) invited Mila to the pub & catch up.
Kostiantyn Tomashchuk made a very important contribution to our Scientific Library. The 148th book of the 147 that were donated is unusual.
Ania had called Dr/Professor Mila Kovalenko but was not picking up her cell.
Detective Oleck Popov integrated Dr/Professor Kovalenko.
Vladyslav Kovalenko father, retired PD Captain heart condition) had arrived & was speaking with Detective Popov.
Somebody broke in & stole the mysterious manuscript.
Will the mysterious manuscript be recovered & the thief brought to justice?
I do not receive any type of compensation for reading & reviewing free books from publishers & authors. Therefore, I am under no obligation to write a positive review, only an honest one.
An awesome book cover, great font & writing style. A very professionally written mystery book. It was quite easy for me to read/follow from start/finish & never a dull moment. There were no grammar/typo errors, nor any repetitive or out of line sequence sentences. Lots of exciting scenarios, with several twists/turns & a huge description list of unique characters, settings, facts etc. to keep track of. This could also make another great mystery movie, or better yet a mini-TV series. There is no doubt in my mind this is an extremely easy rating of 5 stars.
Thank you for the free author; BookFunnel; OddlyBooks; Amazon Digital Services LLC. Kindle Mobi; PDF book
Tony Parsons MSW (Washburn)
April 13, 2021
~Interesting, but predictable, short story
~It held my attention enough to work my way through the entire book. There were some plot twists…but it was kinda predictable. It was definitely a ‘cozy’ novel in the romantic relationships of the main characters. True, there is a certain level of profanity that some cozy readership might find objectionable.
~The plot was one that we have seen before…not a new surprise twist.
~The characters are interesting, yet somewhat underdeveloped.
~It was nice to read a story set in a different location.
~I felt that the story line moved along, it did not have large plot gaps.
~Rather than a complete stand-alone short story, this feel like it is the opening part of a larger story. Yes, I realize that it is a series…however, there was not enough in this book to make me want to purchase the additional books to get the remainder of the story.
~I would recommend it, IF you plan on reading all three books to get the complete story. But I cannot recommend it if this is the only one that you plan on reading…there is simply not enough to it.
~It held my attention enough to work my way through the entire book. There were some plot twists…but it was kinda predictable. It was definitely a ‘cozy’ novel in the romantic relationships of the main characters. True, there is a certain level of profanity that some cozy readership might find objectionable.
~The plot was one that we have seen before…not a new surprise twist.
~The characters are interesting, yet somewhat underdeveloped.
~It was nice to read a story set in a different location.
~I felt that the story line moved along, it did not have large plot gaps.
~Rather than a complete stand-alone short story, this feel like it is the opening part of a larger story. Yes, I realize that it is a series…however, there was not enough in this book to make me want to purchase the additional books to get the remainder of the story.
~I would recommend it, IF you plan on reading all three books to get the complete story. But I cannot recommend it if this is the only one that you plan on reading…there is simply not enough to it.
October 17, 2023
Good introduction
A good introduction to Mila.
This is a fairly short story that can be read in around an hour.
Mila has returned to her home town for a job at the university where she graduated before moving on to Kyiv.
She is using her mother’s death and father’s ailing health for her return but telling her dad that she came back for work.
There is a theft of an old book and investigations revolve around what the book was about and why was it stolen. Not all of that is answered in the story but it gives a decent back history about Mila and her father, setting the scene for further books in the series, which I will read and I’m sure they will get better and better as there’s a good foundation for future stories.
A good introduction to Mila.
This is a fairly short story that can be read in around an hour.
Mila has returned to her home town for a job at the university where she graduated before moving on to Kyiv.
She is using her mother’s death and father’s ailing health for her return but telling her dad that she came back for work.
There is a theft of an old book and investigations revolve around what the book was about and why was it stolen. Not all of that is answered in the story but it gives a decent back history about Mila and her father, setting the scene for further books in the series, which I will read and I’m sure they will get better and better as there’s a good foundation for future stories.
January 3, 2022
Wow!!! Awesome Read ever!
Can't believe I'm book so soon. If my but feeling is right you may become my favorite author of all time! I will not be able to stop now, I am reading this whole holding my Mother-in-law 's hand as she is in her last stages of life and I needed something to distract my mind from losing her. Well this book has done that, although not entirely. My rating reason, obviously because it was deserving of five star's and more! My likes all of it, dang anyone with a head on their shoulder would come to the same conclusion. And I would recommend this Book and no doubt the other three books to anyone that feels the same way I do about great 👍 reads!!! You and I have a lot in common, I don't find that with many people. Sense I could first read I fell in love with my home town library and soon after their librarian, ( she got tired of me reading the two books allowed and coming back for more in just a short time, she started letting me check out ten at a time. At least she only saw me once every day or so!Thanks for your talent as a writer, you are very much appreciated by me!! On to the next book. Pegge
Can't believe I'm book so soon. If my but feeling is right you may become my favorite author of all time! I will not be able to stop now, I am reading this whole holding my Mother-in-law 's hand as she is in her last stages of life and I needed something to distract my mind from losing her. Well this book has done that, although not entirely. My rating reason, obviously because it was deserving of five star's and more! My likes all of it, dang anyone with a head on their shoulder would come to the same conclusion. And I would recommend this Book and no doubt the other three books to anyone that feels the same way I do about great 👍 reads!!! You and I have a lot in common, I don't find that with many people. Sense I could first read I fell in love with my home town library and soon after their librarian, ( she got tired of me reading the two books allowed and coming back for more in just a short time, she started letting me check out ten at a time. At least she only saw me once every day or so!Thanks for your talent as a writer, you are very much appreciated by me!! On to the next book. Pegge
November 26, 2021
A very interesting story involving long last love affairs and historial histories. Mila returns to the university she graduated from in a position of professor of ancient history. Her old friend is the librarian and informs her of a book which was received by the univesity but had not been cataloged.
Soon afterwards the book is found missing and Mila is one of the suspects. The police detective handling the case is one of the best and his attitude towards Mila is not pleasant. The dean of the university calls her father who is a retired police Captain and Mila gets her release with the warning not to interfere in the investigation. However; that is the wrong approach to take with her so she and her friend start doing research . However; there are some hidden danges lurking. Will worth reading,.
Soon afterwards the book is found missing and Mila is one of the suspects. The police detective handling the case is one of the best and his attitude towards Mila is not pleasant. The dean of the university calls her father who is a retired police Captain and Mila gets her release with the warning not to interfere in the investigation. However; that is the wrong approach to take with her so she and her friend start doing research . However; there are some hidden danges lurking. Will worth reading,.
May 4, 2023
I've been meaning to read this book for years, but just now got the chance. It gives an idea of what life was like in Ukraine, before the current war began, and I find books are the one of the best ways to learn about different places and cultures.
Mila goes back to her hometown for a new job, and ends up in a mystery. A book is missing, but who would take it, and why? Is it related to the Borgias? Or some sort of secret society? No one seems to know, but Mila's going to figure it out.
I feel like it was good for a first in series-setting things up, introducing characters, etc. However, I felt like it could have been a little longer, fleshed out some things a bit more. Overall, a well done story, and I look forward to more of Mila's adventures.
Mila goes back to her hometown for a new job, and ends up in a mystery. A book is missing, but who would take it, and why? Is it related to the Borgias? Or some sort of secret society? No one seems to know, but Mila's going to figure it out.
I feel like it was good for a first in series-setting things up, introducing characters, etc. However, I felt like it could have been a little longer, fleshed out some things a bit more. Overall, a well done story, and I look forward to more of Mila's adventures.
April 15, 2024
The Cozy Mystery Book Club Bingo
Prompt : International Cosy
Absolutely not. I am sorry to the author, she seems like a lovely person but this was terrible. And again I feel like I’m shooting on the Red Cross because this is self-published, but if you make people pay money for stuff, then people can also get upset when they waste said money.
This was set in Ukraine, and it would be so nice to read a book set there, if only that the society painted was awful. I know some Ukrainian people and I really like them, so I want to believe that some behaviours in this novella are not normal. 3 chapters in and a woman that presumably the ex of the MC got with is called a “dumb bitch” and it’s implied she’s stupid. Then some student is sexually explicit on campus with the MC (who is potentially his new teacher) and the MC takes revenge on some rude guy by telling a girl who is “all over him” that he gave her a rash, which not only is a bad thing to say but also potentially criminal???
You would think this was written max in 2005 but it was published in 2020??? Come on.
The MC Mila is also insufferable. At one point, she threatens to fail a student if he doesn't help her, forfeiting all her academic integrity. Not sure why I should root for her. Also, she hears of a British secret society that shut down 100 years ago, then she reads about Giovanni Borgia having a secret society and she thinks the two things are connected and it can't be a coincidence and like maam, there have been more than 1 single secret society throughout history, and Giovanni lived in Italy in the 1500s, where do you see this connection??? Explain???
The potential love interest is also terrible. Oleck being the best detective of the country makes me sad for Ukraine since he dismisses information about the stolen book by the expert on books. And then says she should be in jail for obstruction of justice but my man she is actually finding info, she is doing your job, she is doing some provision of justice!!
Some other details strongly needed a very good editor. Apparently Ania’s account gives her limited access. The librarian’s account gives her limited access to archives and paywalls. A LIBRARIAN’S account. Come on. Anyone in academia can tell you the librarians are not only the ones having access to everything, but they can GIVE you access to things. Like it’s their job to go out there and buy or get access to academic stuff.
Continuity was also an issue, with stuff like the school year supposed to start in 2 weeks, but like after 3 days Ivan has exams. What are these exams exactly??
The only good thing about this novella is that it’s short, but I really don’t recommend it.
Prompt : International Cosy
Absolutely not. I am sorry to the author, she seems like a lovely person but this was terrible. And again I feel like I’m shooting on the Red Cross because this is self-published, but if you make people pay money for stuff, then people can also get upset when they waste said money.
This was set in Ukraine, and it would be so nice to read a book set there, if only that the society painted was awful. I know some Ukrainian people and I really like them, so I want to believe that some behaviours in this novella are not normal. 3 chapters in and a woman that presumably the ex of the MC got with is called a “dumb bitch” and it’s implied she’s stupid. Then some student is sexually explicit on campus with the MC (who is potentially his new teacher) and the MC takes revenge on some rude guy by telling a girl who is “all over him” that he gave her a rash, which not only is a bad thing to say but also potentially criminal???
You would think this was written max in 2005 but it was published in 2020??? Come on.
The MC Mila is also insufferable. At one point, she threatens to fail a student if he doesn't help her, forfeiting all her academic integrity. Not sure why I should root for her. Also, she hears of a British secret society that shut down 100 years ago, then she reads about Giovanni Borgia having a secret society and she thinks the two things are connected and it can't be a coincidence and like maam, there have been more than 1 single secret society throughout history, and Giovanni lived in Italy in the 1500s, where do you see this connection??? Explain???
The potential love interest is also terrible. Oleck being the best detective of the country makes me sad for Ukraine since he dismisses information about the stolen book by the expert on books. And then says she should be in jail for obstruction of justice but my man she is actually finding info, she is doing your job, she is doing some provision of justice!!
Some other details strongly needed a very good editor. Apparently Ania’s account gives her limited access. The librarian’s account gives her limited access to archives and paywalls. A LIBRARIAN’S account. Come on. Anyone in academia can tell you the librarians are not only the ones having access to everything, but they can GIVE you access to things. Like it’s their job to go out there and buy or get access to academic stuff.
Continuity was also an issue, with stuff like the school year supposed to start in 2 weeks, but like after 3 days Ivan has exams. What are these exams exactly??
The only good thing about this novella is that it’s short, but I really don’t recommend it.
July 26, 2021
I had thought this book was a cozy mystery which I was looking forward to reading. However, it certainly wasn’t a cozy mystery dropping the f-bomb many times. I also didn’t get a feeling on exactly where they were located, the city was Chernivtsi which I don’t know where this is. The story didn’t flow for me at all. I felt there were many sections which didn’t make sense and it jumped around quite a bit. I wasn’t really into the characters and the plot was ok, but didn’t feel like it was much. My first read from the author and it didn’t do much for me. I will give the author another chance in a future read.
December 12, 2021
Mila returns to her home town in the Ukraine after the death of her mother to look after her father and to take up a teaching position at her former university.
When a rare book goes missing from the antiquities department Mila gets dragged into the investigation to find the thief.
More a short story than a novella this was an enjoyable read with a couple of twists to keep you interested. Not long enough to allow any real characterisation but with a plot that races to its conclusion.
An enjoyable short read.
This nicely introduces us to Mila ahead of the next book in the series Ivan’s Dilemma where she once again gets sucked into a police investigation…but this time its murder
When a rare book goes missing from the antiquities department Mila gets dragged into the investigation to find the thief.
More a short story than a novella this was an enjoyable read with a couple of twists to keep you interested. Not long enough to allow any real characterisation but with a plot that races to its conclusion.
An enjoyable short read.
This nicely introduces us to Mila ahead of the next book in the series Ivan’s Dilemma where she once again gets sucked into a police investigation…but this time its murder
November 18, 2023
The Final Assignment - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A brief (56 pages), novella in which KC Brennan's MC, Mila Kovalenko, returns to her Alma mater at Chernivtsi, this time as a tutor.
Reunited with her beloved retired police chief father and former fellow-student now librarian, Ania, Mila's soon embroiled in the mystery around an ancient manuscript...that's now missing. Whom does Detective Popov suspect?
An intriguing mystery-thriller that is sure to endear KC Brennan's to new readers and a must for fans of Agatha Christie, Umberto Eco and Ellis Peters.
Get your copy of The Final Assignment today - and be careful not to lick your fingers while turning the pages...just in case!
A brief (56 pages), novella in which KC Brennan's MC, Mila Kovalenko, returns to her Alma mater at Chernivtsi, this time as a tutor.
Reunited with her beloved retired police chief father and former fellow-student now librarian, Ania, Mila's soon embroiled in the mystery around an ancient manuscript...that's now missing. Whom does Detective Popov suspect?
An intriguing mystery-thriller that is sure to endear KC Brennan's to new readers and a must for fans of Agatha Christie, Umberto Eco and Ellis Peters.
Get your copy of The Final Assignment today - and be careful not to lick your fingers while turning the pages...just in case!
December 29, 2024
This is a promising start to a series. The book and series is unusual in a number of ways. It is set in a rather obscure part of western Ukraine, near the Romanian and Moldovan borders. The protagonist is a woman professor.
The writing is not smooth and some word choices are odd. And the protagonist gets drunk after only a few vodkas in the campus bar, which seems rather surprising for a Ukrainian raised on the stuff. The solution to the mystery was telegraphed from the beginning -- honestly, it was so loud that I thought that was a red herring.
The characters and the enveloping conspiracy are interesting enough that I will continue the series.
The writing is not smooth and some word choices are odd. And the protagonist gets drunk after only a few vodkas in the campus bar, which seems rather surprising for a Ukrainian raised on the stuff. The solution to the mystery was telegraphed from the beginning -- honestly, it was so loud that I thought that was a red herring.
The characters and the enveloping conspiracy are interesting enough that I will continue the series.
November 15, 2020
Mila returns home to Chernivtsi to take a job at the University and also so she is closer to look after her dad, who has a heart condition.
She has barely been hired when a rare manuscript is stolen and fingers are pointed in her direction.
Mila and her best friend, Ania research the history of the manuscript to try to figure out who may have taken it. They find that the manuscript may be a very dangerous book indeed.
I liked the characters and the friendship of Mila and Ania. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
She has barely been hired when a rare manuscript is stolen and fingers are pointed in her direction.
Mila and her best friend, Ania research the history of the manuscript to try to figure out who may have taken it. They find that the manuscript may be a very dangerous book indeed.
I liked the characters and the friendship of Mila and Ania. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next book in the series.
December 21, 2020
In this novella the story was enjoyable, and the characters well developed. The ending was vaguely unsatisfying though. I understand there are other books in this series to come. It is a quickly read piece, and quite easily finished in one sitting. And I think the idea was bigger than the actual book. I would like to see it extended into a full novel. I am sure that would be enjoyable to read. This author was previously unknown to me, but I would like to read further books.
I nearly gave it four stars. Call it three and a half.
I received this through Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to review.
I nearly gave it four stars. Call it three and a half.
I received this through Voracious Readers and thank them and the author for the opportunity to review.
July 7, 2023
What a delightful short novella mystery. The storyline is very straightforward, the characters defined and interesting and the descriptions of the various venues very believable. While a quick read this short tale is as fulfilling as a long novel. I do not believe in reiterating storylines as I feel that steals from the enjoyment of the reader, but it is about a youngish girl returning to the university she attended as a young lady. I highly recommend this story. I received an ARC and this is my honest evaluation of this novella.
July 26, 2023
3.5 rounded to 4. This was a hard book to rate. It was a short story that was maybe too short. I enjoyed the ride but it seemed tied up before I could really appreciate the characters development. I have to say I really loved the cover of this book. This is not a clean cozy murder mystery but more of a mystery on the cusp of being a thriller. The historical fiction part of the book was so intriguing and I really wanted more. The author certainly has a lot of knowledge about Lucrezia Borgia and her family who is a figure in history who has always intrigued me.
November 4, 2024
1.5/5 rounded up and being generous.
Yikes! The English in this book was badly stilted with a lot of weird usage issues. Ranging from more formal use to suddenly using slang it was all over the place. (I've never heard of a relationship depreciating...) The plot was very obvious. The "villain" was a misogynistic POS but the general attitude of the writing wasn't much better either. Definitely not a cozy as there was liberal use of profanity and belittling language without cause. Definitely won't be continuing with this.
Yikes! The English in this book was badly stilted with a lot of weird usage issues. Ranging from more formal use to suddenly using slang it was all over the place. (I've never heard of a relationship depreciating...) The plot was very obvious. The "villain" was a misogynistic POS but the general attitude of the writing wasn't much better either. Definitely not a cozy as there was liberal use of profanity and belittling language without cause. Definitely won't be continuing with this.
December 1, 2024
This is a great little cozy mystery that takes place in the Soviet Union. As soon as Mila gets her new post at the University of Chernivtsi, a rare book is stolen, and the detective points the finger at her. Of course, she is determined to prove her innocence and discovers that the book is more dangerous than interesting. This one is interesting because Mila uses her academic knowledge to investigate why the book was stolen, pointing out that she had no reason to steal it. The investigation leads her to one man, and this is where the story gets truly exciting.
February 18, 2025
This story has a very interesting background and the potential to be a great book but was not able to achieve this in the short story form. The language was very oddly written and didn't flow very well. There is not much space for character development either. It felt very rushed, especially in the concluding chapters in the effort to wrap up the ending. It is also not a cosy mystery but not a problem for me. I've given it 3 stars as there is a lot of potential in this writer for future longer stories.
August 28, 2020
KC Brennan's story is not based in the UK or USA but in a university outside Kyiv in Ukraine maybe? Not sure. The dialogue was choppy at some places in the story. I didn't get a feel for the location because it wasn't really presented. The mystery of a missing book and the history behind it was engaging but I didn't understand why I didn't get to know what was in the book. And who was the final assignment for?
April 16, 2021
I enjoyed this book. I have never read a book by this author but will probably try another. This is a short book, quick read but there was still enough time to like the characters. The story line was a bit different from the usual mysteries I read so that was a plus. The writing style is a bit elementary especially around the diologue, but not enough to make me stop reading. If ypu like mysteries ypu will enjoy this book.
September 9, 2022
nice start hook!
The story has a great starting hook that draws the reader into the story line. The story is well written with great attention to detail considering it is a bit of a smaller story line. The story flows naturally not rushed or left out parts not discussed throughout the story. The characters are all throughly and vividly imprinted and easily able to imagine in my mind. Thanks for a memorable read! Looking forward to the next book!
The story has a great starting hook that draws the reader into the story line. The story is well written with great attention to detail considering it is a bit of a smaller story line. The story flows naturally not rushed or left out parts not discussed throughout the story. The characters are all throughly and vividly imprinted and easily able to imagine in my mind. Thanks for a memorable read! Looking forward to the next book!
April 1, 2023
This book was a quick read. I love history so this book really appealed to me. I love the friendship between Mila and Ania! Despite being apart and not seeing each other for awhile they pick up right where they left off. I also liked Detective Popov! This was a good mystery involving a poison book from the Borgia era! I recommend this book and this author! I think I will definitely read the rest of those series!
March 4, 2024
The Final Assignment: Mila K. Mysteries (The Mila K. Mysteries Book 1), my first read from author K.C. Brennan. I got this book back in August of 2022 and lost track of it until now. “I received a free Kindle copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review." The gifting of this book did not affect my opinion of it. I look forward to reading more from this author. (RIP Marley January 20, 2014 - July 24, 2018.
September 10, 2024
Though it contains more than 30 chapters, this is really a short novel. It was interesting in that it was set in Western Ukraine. Beyond that, the story was a bit disjointed, and for my taste, misogynistic. The male characters were stereotypical "tough guys". It centers on a stolen "missing" manuscript (yes, I know). The only mystery was the final who-done-it.
* I received this book as a promotional by the author.
* I received this book as a promotional by the author.
February 28, 2022
My only question is 'Why the title?' Mila is just starting a position as a professor at the university. When she previously left town, it was, in part, due to a broken heart - but not due to her study.
** It was coincidental reading a book based in Kyiv when Russia/Putin is invading [even though location didn't really matter.]
** It was coincidental reading a book based in Kyiv when Russia/Putin is invading [even though location didn't really matter.]
September 18, 2022
This book has a good plot and good mystery elements. Mila and Oleck are really nice characters but they need more development. The writing is stilted - almost as though the author’s first language is not English. There are faulty word usages as well as a few plot inconsistencies. The author needs a good editor.
March 12, 2023
A lot of mystery and details in this story. A whole lot of potential to make it a read you could thoroughly enjoy. BUT, the story is still a mystery when it ends. Things did not come together, clues did not flow into details and facts. None of the characters seemed to be the readers eyes, or friends in the story.
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