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A Gaby Quinn Mystery #1
Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace
Gaby Quinn is hiding from her past, recovering from the senseless death of her husband, and living in a small New England town. She has her law practice, her dog Kat, and a small circle of friends. What more could she need?
But when an unusual probate case crosses her desk, she finds herself looking for a lost body, an abandoned truck, and answers to a mountain of questions, not least of which is, “Who was Pieter Jorgenson?”
Soon enough, she discovers even small towns hold big secrets.
But when an unusual probate case crosses her desk, she finds herself looking for a lost body, an abandoned truck, and answers to a mountain of questions, not least of which is, “Who was Pieter Jorgenson?”
Soon enough, she discovers even small towns hold big secrets.
180 pages, Paperback
Published August 25, 2020
About the author
Andrea O'Connor
4 books104 followers Having received a library card before she began kindergarten (requiring her cursive signature), Andrea began her writing career at age five with a short story describing the seasons. Her next endeavor, at age nine, was a novella featuring Christine O’Leary. So began Andrea’s long love affair with the written word.
Singularly focused on a nursing career, Andrea continued to write for pleasure through high school and college. After completing a master’s degree in order to teach nursing, she was offered a position as a nurse editor with the American Journal of Nursing, where she honed her writing skills through editing others’ works.
Andrea was in the midst of writing a novel styled as a memoir when her husband’s Parkinson’s disease had progressed to the point where John was unable to engage in his usual active life style. He longed to “do something,” so she suggested they write a book together. She had long considered writing a mystery series based on some of her experiences as an attorney, and they settled on one of her early cases as the basis for a book.
It was a great opportunity for both. Andrea had left a long career in a “publish or perish” university setting prior to becoming an attorney. It was hard for her not to view writing fiction as lying on paper. John helped her to push the uneasy feeling that was the seed for Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace into a believable plot line. It was Andrea’s long service as the chief elected official of a small town in Connecticut that provided the story’s sense of place.
Andrea is the author of three award-winning texts in the area of nursing education and staff development as well as numerous articles in peer-reviewed nursing and education journals. Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace is her first foray into the world of fiction. She collects teddy bears and birdhouses, loves to garden and bake bread, and writes from Sherman, Connecticut.
Singularly focused on a nursing career, Andrea continued to write for pleasure through high school and college. After completing a master’s degree in order to teach nursing, she was offered a position as a nurse editor with the American Journal of Nursing, where she honed her writing skills through editing others’ works.
Andrea was in the midst of writing a novel styled as a memoir when her husband’s Parkinson’s disease had progressed to the point where John was unable to engage in his usual active life style. He longed to “do something,” so she suggested they write a book together. She had long considered writing a mystery series based on some of her experiences as an attorney, and they settled on one of her early cases as the basis for a book.
It was a great opportunity for both. Andrea had left a long career in a “publish or perish” university setting prior to becoming an attorney. It was hard for her not to view writing fiction as lying on paper. John helped her to push the uneasy feeling that was the seed for Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace into a believable plot line. It was Andrea’s long service as the chief elected official of a small town in Connecticut that provided the story’s sense of place.
Andrea is the author of three award-winning texts in the area of nursing education and staff development as well as numerous articles in peer-reviewed nursing and education journals. Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace is her first foray into the world of fiction. She collects teddy bears and birdhouses, loves to garden and bake bread, and writes from Sherman, Connecticut.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
November 2, 2020
Gaby Quinn,an estate lawyer in the small Connecticut town of Woodson Falls is asked to handle the estate of a local man found dead in New York city.. She never met the man but is familiar with the procedures necessary to determine the value of his estate, hunt down potential heirs and dispose of the decedent. What she discovers in her hunt for information is a reclusive man with no friends in the community.
Estate law is described in detail, all the steps involved in settling an estate. The writing is pedestrian and the dialogue seems wooden and too formal at times. Some readers might nod off with the author's detailed look at the legal side of closing out an estate. There is a mystery to be solved but clues are there if you look. I did appreciate the author's effort at ramping up tension and intrigue in Gaby’s life. Her past seems to follow her to the small town where she has set up her practice. There is even a hint at a love interest.
Fingers crossed the next book in the series will be less sterile and more emotional.
2.5 stars
ARC received from author via Book Siren for review.
Estate law is described in detail, all the steps involved in settling an estate. The writing is pedestrian and the dialogue seems wooden and too formal at times. Some readers might nod off with the author's detailed look at the legal side of closing out an estate. There is a mystery to be solved but clues are there if you look. I did appreciate the author's effort at ramping up tension and intrigue in Gaby’s life. Her past seems to follow her to the small town where she has set up her practice. There is even a hint at a love interest.
Fingers crossed the next book in the series will be less sterile and more emotional.
2.5 stars
ARC received from author via Book Siren for review.
August 29, 2020
I am grateful to BookSirens for allowing me to read this first book in the Woodson Falls series in exchange for my honest, voluntary review.
16 Lakeview Terrace is unlike any other book I have ever read. The closest I can describe it is a procedural about estate lawyers. I enjoyed reading it, even though it soon became clear to me what was happening. (In recent years my favorite reads have been true crime and police procedurals, so maybe all those reads influenced the way I think. Lol)
This was an entertaining read. I have lived in CT off and on for many years. The trip back there was fun, too, although I never found a place quite like Woodson Falls.
I am definitely going to await eagerly the next book. The author has a clear writing style that I admire. In time, I feel confident that she will develop puzzles that are more difficult to solve. In the meantime, I shall continue to be interested in her characters, including Kat, the lawyer’s dog.
16 Lakeview Terrace is unlike any other book I have ever read. The closest I can describe it is a procedural about estate lawyers. I enjoyed reading it, even though it soon became clear to me what was happening. (In recent years my favorite reads have been true crime and police procedurals, so maybe all those reads influenced the way I think. Lol)
This was an entertaining read. I have lived in CT off and on for many years. The trip back there was fun, too, although I never found a place quite like Woodson Falls.
I am definitely going to await eagerly the next book. The author has a clear writing style that I admire. In time, I feel confident that she will develop puzzles that are more difficult to solve. In the meantime, I shall continue to be interested in her characters, including Kat, the lawyer’s dog.
November 5, 2020
I liked the fast-pace of the story as well as the short chapters. The characters, especially Gaby and Jorgenson, are very three dimensional. I believe Gaby is going to be an interesting character to follow and get to know better This is the first book I have read by Andrea O’Connor but I will be more than happy to pursue more of this author’s work. I understand that she has previously published several non-fiction books but this is her first venture into the realm of fiction. The only thing I can find about the book that I didn’t care for was that the author found it necessary to give detailed descriptions of every step Gaby made when gathering material for probate court or when talking to potential witnesses. Some background is fine but this in-depth info is boring and doesn't really add anything to the story. This however was really a very small annoyance in what was a really excellent and enjoyable read. I liked this book well enough to be watching for the next book in the series. Fans of legal thrillers will really like this new author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. The views expressed by this reviewer are entirely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest opinion. The views expressed by this reviewer are entirely my own.
September 7, 2020
Loved this book and it’s savvy protagonist Gaby. She sets the tone for a classy, cozy mystery that is both intriguing and well paced. I look forward to the next in the series so I can hopefully see her potential love interest continue to add spice to the solving of her next mystery.
September 26, 2020
My goodness, this was a surprisingly great mystery, though unlike any others I can recall. I didn't like the cover but was enticed by the description and now appreciate what the cover represented. I am a retired family attorney and did my share of probating estates so that part of the story was intriguing for obvious reasons.
The protagonist, Gabriella Quinn a/k/a Gaby, was a likable young woman whose past trauma while living in New York City had propelled her to return to her childhood home in Woodson Falls, Connecticut, to set up a solo law practice. She was the court appointed executor of the estate of Pieter Jorgenson, a 50ish man who was unknown to most in the town. The author took us through the details of what Gaby had to do to locate and plan for disposal of the body, search his house to inventory documents and personal property, locate beneficiaries, find his truck and inventory its contents, all while filing the necessary estate paperwork. She was fortunate to connect with a State Trooper who gave her assistance in dealing with New York agencies and by the end of the book had become a good friend (and possibly more in future books in the author's planned mystery series?).
The writing was great, especially for a first time novelist, keeping my attention, and reading nonstop to finish. The mystery was foreshadowed though the ultimate solution was a surprise. I would love to read more in this series by the author.
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Review Copy from Book Sirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
The protagonist, Gabriella Quinn a/k/a Gaby, was a likable young woman whose past trauma while living in New York City had propelled her to return to her childhood home in Woodson Falls, Connecticut, to set up a solo law practice. She was the court appointed executor of the estate of Pieter Jorgenson, a 50ish man who was unknown to most in the town. The author took us through the details of what Gaby had to do to locate and plan for disposal of the body, search his house to inventory documents and personal property, locate beneficiaries, find his truck and inventory its contents, all while filing the necessary estate paperwork. She was fortunate to connect with a State Trooper who gave her assistance in dealing with New York agencies and by the end of the book had become a good friend (and possibly more in future books in the author's planned mystery series?).
The writing was great, especially for a first time novelist, keeping my attention, and reading nonstop to finish. The mystery was foreshadowed though the ultimate solution was a surprise. I would love to read more in this series by the author.
I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Review Copy from Book Sirens and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 24, 2021
I am always game to try new cozy mystery series. I find the variety interesting, and it is usually an adventure (for me) of some sort. However, this series was different in a whole new way. It has promise, and the leading lady is very diligent at her job.
Gaby Quinn is an estate lawyer. This job gives her access to a deceased person's information, everything that even the closest person to them would not have been aware of. This premise is not something I have come across in earlier mystery series and is a 'mystery' in the loosest sense. The character passes under strange circumstances but of natural causes. Gaby then begins painstaking research into his life, and during the process, her old life might be throwing a shadow. But, in the process, she uncovers something - which only happens towards the end.
As I mentioned earlier, it has good promise and a lot of attention to detail. It is not easy to care about the 'case' details, but I liked the end result of all of it put together. It is also a short read, and I would recommend it to anyone on the lookout for something in this genre.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
Gaby Quinn is an estate lawyer. This job gives her access to a deceased person's information, everything that even the closest person to them would not have been aware of. This premise is not something I have come across in earlier mystery series and is a 'mystery' in the loosest sense. The character passes under strange circumstances but of natural causes. Gaby then begins painstaking research into his life, and during the process, her old life might be throwing a shadow. But, in the process, she uncovers something - which only happens towards the end.
As I mentioned earlier, it has good promise and a lot of attention to detail. It is not easy to care about the 'case' details, but I liked the end result of all of it put together. It is also a short read, and I would recommend it to anyone on the lookout for something in this genre.
I received an ARC thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience.
August 15, 2021
This was a really good read! Although it was an amateur woman sleuth, I don't think I'd categorize this as a cozy mystery. There wasn't a lot of detecting, and the conclusion was a bit grim and darker than I expected.
I enjoyed the characters though. Gaby and Matt were exceptional, and I enjoyed the secondary characters as well. I do hope I get to read more about them in future books. Getting to see Gaby at work was a good education as well because I didn't have much background with what a lawyer dealt with while settling an estate.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I enjoyed the characters though. Gaby and Matt were exceptional, and I enjoyed the secondary characters as well. I do hope I get to read more about them in future books. Getting to see Gaby at work was a good education as well because I didn't have much background with what a lawyer dealt with while settling an estate.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSirens, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 17, 2020
I received a review copy from BookSirens and this is my honest opinion. I must admit that I wasn't sure what to expect when I started this book. It appeared to be an interesting story about a probate lawyer and while it didn't seem to have any great mystery or thriller element to it, the synopsis caught my interest. Surprisingly, it was very enjoyable and I was impressed with Ms. O'Connor's ability to keep me interested in a story that I was afraid was going to be boring. Boy, was I ever mistaken! There is a great mystery here and it is revealed when the reader least expects it. The characters are solid, down-to-earth people that the reader can easily relate to, and while there isn't a lot of "action" in terms of "shoot-em-up" action, it isn't missed. Ms. O'Connor creates characters and a storyline that holds the reader's interest without having all the car chases and guns blazing. I was pleasantly surprised. I look forward to reading more of Ms. O'Connor's books in the future.
I want to thank BookSirens and Ms. O'Connor for the opportunity to read Woodson Falls.
I want to thank BookSirens and Ms. O'Connor for the opportunity to read Woodson Falls.
October 1, 2020
I was pleasantly surprised when I began this first book in a new series. From beginning to end I couldn't put it down. Being a retired paralegal who handled a lot of probate, I really enjoyed reading this mystery! Having to Leave New York and get away from her life there, she returns to Woodson Falls, CT and opens a law practice. When she is appointed executor of the estate of Pieter Jorgenson the mystery begins! Very little is known about this decedent in town and it is up to Gaby to not only handle the estate, but find the deceased, his truck, beneficiaries and catalogue the content of his house. And so the author takes us on a ride to the very end! I totally enjoyed the relationship between Gaby and the State Trooper who helped her with the case. Could there be more in the next book? The characters are well developed and real and thoroughly enjoyable. I love Gaby! I can't wait to read the second book in this series! I received an ARC from Book Sirens but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
September 27, 2020
Ever wonder about your neighbor? This novel features Gaby Quinn who has a new law practice in a small Connecticut town when Pieter Jorgensen decides to build a home there. Strange things begin to happen which draw the attention of Gaby. The story moves at a fast pace with good dialogue and strong characters. When I finished the book, I was shocked but looking forward to the next adventure with Gaby Quinn and her dog, Kat, in Woodson Falls.
October 10, 2020
A light read. The reason I chose this book is that the title and cover which caught my eye.
Normally rare books get me hooked, and this was one of them. Otherwise, I just read whenever I get time.
It was unlike any other mystery novels that I read. I loved the character development as I felt Gaby's trauma and had empathy for her. She was a polite, brave woman. The way she dealt with the case was intriguing as well as interesting and got me hooked throughout the book.
Although the ending terrified me, I felt the ending could have had more details or at least more chapters involved, as I wasn't feeling content whilst reaching towards the end of the book.
Gaby's emotions were so real that made me wonder how anyone could write such a different plot. Then I read author's note. It made me sad that her life incident was the inspiration to write this novel. Also, I appreciate that this was her first book which made a great read.
However, I started to love this author now.
Definitely looking forward to her other books as well!
4 stars!!!
Normally rare books get me hooked, and this was one of them. Otherwise, I just read whenever I get time.
It was unlike any other mystery novels that I read. I loved the character development as I felt Gaby's trauma and had empathy for her. She was a polite, brave woman. The way she dealt with the case was intriguing as well as interesting and got me hooked throughout the book.
Although the ending terrified me, I felt the ending could have had more details or at least more chapters involved, as I wasn't feeling content whilst reaching towards the end of the book.
Gaby's emotions were so real that made me wonder how anyone could write such a different plot. Then I read author's note. It made me sad that her life incident was the inspiration to write this novel. Also, I appreciate that this was her first book which made a great read.
However, I started to love this author now.
Definitely looking forward to her other books as well!
4 stars!!!
July 13, 2021
I’m sorry but I didn’t enjoy reading this book. It took me ages to finish it because I couldn’t get into it at all.
I found some of the facts described irrelevant and distracting and some of the dialogues forced and unnatural.
I did find that some scenes were very well described, but over all not a book for me.
I received an advance review copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
I found some of the facts described irrelevant and distracting and some of the dialogues forced and unnatural.
I did find that some scenes were very well described, but over all not a book for me.
I received an advance review copy for free and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2020
Gabriella Quinn is living the quiet life of a small-town lawyer. Life has delt her a hand she never thought she would have to play. Not so very long ago she lived in New York City with her beloved husband. Her world came crashing down the night he was murdered and she was seriously injured by an unknown assailant in the city they both loved. Moving to Woodson Falls and her adored dog Kat are the two things helping her cope with the residual pain and fear from the attack.
When she is called upon to settle the estate of Pieter Jorgenson, a Woodson Falls resident, she happily takes the case. Unfortunately, this case will be anything but ordinary. He was an odd man. He was feuding with his neighbors, and yet he was a kind and compassionate crossing guard for the elementary school children. A loner skilled in woodworking, he seems to have ties in New York City as he was found there, dead in his truck.
As Gaby begins collecting information to settle the estate, she contacts his only known relative, an uncle who paints a picture of Jorgenson as a bullied young boy that grew up to be a loner. One evening after gathering papers from the dead man’s home, Gaby is rammed by a vehicle on the way home. She is shaken, but not hurt. Luckily Officer Matt Thomas was patrolling the area and helped Gaby get a tow truck for her car and got her home safely.
As luck would have it, Matt has ties to New York, and helps grease the wheels for her with the NYPD when she has to go looking for information on Jorgenson’s death. The deeper she digs, the more secrets she finds. Jorgenson apparently was not the man many people thought he was – but who and what exactly was he?
I loved this fast-paced mystery. The characters, especially Gaby and Jorgenson, have many layers that are interesting to peel back and discover. The solid plot that ties up all loose ends in the final chapters is perfect for mystery lovers as well as legal thriller fans. Readers will latch on to this and not let go until the final pages.
This is the first book I have read by Andrea O’Connor but will not be my last. She has previously published several non-fiction books. Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace is her first venture into fiction. I absolutely loved her writing style as well as the plot and characters. I’m adding her to my favorites list so that I can snatch up her next book as soon as it hits the shelves. I highly recommend you check out this fabulous debut fiction author.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Reedsy Discovery in exchange for a fair and honest review. https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/woo... Copyright © 2020 Laura Hartman
When she is called upon to settle the estate of Pieter Jorgenson, a Woodson Falls resident, she happily takes the case. Unfortunately, this case will be anything but ordinary. He was an odd man. He was feuding with his neighbors, and yet he was a kind and compassionate crossing guard for the elementary school children. A loner skilled in woodworking, he seems to have ties in New York City as he was found there, dead in his truck.
As Gaby begins collecting information to settle the estate, she contacts his only known relative, an uncle who paints a picture of Jorgenson as a bullied young boy that grew up to be a loner. One evening after gathering papers from the dead man’s home, Gaby is rammed by a vehicle on the way home. She is shaken, but not hurt. Luckily Officer Matt Thomas was patrolling the area and helped Gaby get a tow truck for her car and got her home safely.
As luck would have it, Matt has ties to New York, and helps grease the wheels for her with the NYPD when she has to go looking for information on Jorgenson’s death. The deeper she digs, the more secrets she finds. Jorgenson apparently was not the man many people thought he was – but who and what exactly was he?
I loved this fast-paced mystery. The characters, especially Gaby and Jorgenson, have many layers that are interesting to peel back and discover. The solid plot that ties up all loose ends in the final chapters is perfect for mystery lovers as well as legal thriller fans. Readers will latch on to this and not let go until the final pages.
This is the first book I have read by Andrea O’Connor but will not be my last. She has previously published several non-fiction books. Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace is her first venture into fiction. I absolutely loved her writing style as well as the plot and characters. I’m adding her to my favorites list so that I can snatch up her next book as soon as it hits the shelves. I highly recommend you check out this fabulous debut fiction author.
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy for free from Reedsy Discovery in exchange for a fair and honest review. https://reedsy.com/discovery/book/woo... Copyright © 2020 Laura Hartman
December 6, 2020
Cozy mysteries should: 1) have an amateur sleuth who plausibly gets involved with the investigation, 2) a dead body is found within the first 50 pages, 3) the romance doesn’t overpower the mystery, 4) the killer is introduced and their story is weaved within the plot….don’t introduce the killer and then we don’t read about them until the end, 5) don’t have the killer just confess, the amateur sleuth needs to work to find the motive, and 6) make the amateur sleuth interesting.
This is not a cozy. A mystery, yes. But not a cozy. OK, I got that out. So I’m reviewing this as a mystery novel.
Gabriella Quinn is an estate lawyer who’s asked to take on a probate case of a local man who passed away while in New York. Gaby has suffered a tragic loss and moved to a small town in Connecticut to start fresh. She has her friendly and trusted dog and has a healthy appetite. And we know this because we’re told about almost every single meal she eats. As she digs through the dead man’s papers and property, it’s a puzzle she has to put together to settle his estate. I liked Gaby a lot and the investigation into the dead man’s life kept me reading. That was by far my favorite part of the mystery.
Although there’s little tension throughout the book, the mystery of Pieter (the dead man) and the eeriness of his strange house and the fear of what could be behind the locked door certainly kept one guessing. When we find out what’s behind the door, though, it’s really rather disturbing.
The main reasons I wouldn’t classify this as a cozy is, one, there was no murder (Pieter’s death was not suspicious), two, as there’s no murder, there’s nothing for Gaby to investigate, and three, what is found in the basement.
Overall, the story is strong enough that the flaws I had with the writing, dialogue, and character descriptions didn’t stop me from finishing and enjoying the book. I hope that Ms. O’Connor’s writing matures as the series progresses.
I’ll definitely give the second book in the series a read.
DISCLOSURE: I received a review copy for free from Book Sirens in exchange for a fair and honest review.
This is not a cozy. A mystery, yes. But not a cozy. OK, I got that out. So I’m reviewing this as a mystery novel.
Gabriella Quinn is an estate lawyer who’s asked to take on a probate case of a local man who passed away while in New York. Gaby has suffered a tragic loss and moved to a small town in Connecticut to start fresh. She has her friendly and trusted dog and has a healthy appetite. And we know this because we’re told about almost every single meal she eats. As she digs through the dead man’s papers and property, it’s a puzzle she has to put together to settle his estate. I liked Gaby a lot and the investigation into the dead man’s life kept me reading. That was by far my favorite part of the mystery.
Although there’s little tension throughout the book, the mystery of Pieter (the dead man) and the eeriness of his strange house and the fear of what could be behind the locked door certainly kept one guessing. When we find out what’s behind the door, though, it’s really rather disturbing.
The main reasons I wouldn’t classify this as a cozy is, one, there was no murder (Pieter’s death was not suspicious), two, as there’s no murder, there’s nothing for Gaby to investigate, and three, what is found in the basement.
Overall, the story is strong enough that the flaws I had with the writing, dialogue, and character descriptions didn’t stop me from finishing and enjoying the book. I hope that Ms. O’Connor’s writing matures as the series progresses.
I’ll definitely give the second book in the series a read.
DISCLOSURE: I received a review copy for free from Book Sirens in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 24, 2021
A most enjoyable read and, I’m glad to say, the first in the series of Gaby Quinn mysteries. I’m happy to return to Woodson Falls when the next book is released.
Gaby Quinn has finally found peace with her life, the move to Woodson Falls having been good for her after the murder of her husband in New York not so long ago. Gaby was there when he died, suffering injuries of her own when an unknown assailant attacked them both for no apparent reason. Mentally, emotionally and physically scarred, she sets up her estate law practice in the home left to her by her grandfather. With only her dog, Kat, for company, she enjoys the less stressful pace of life and the intricacies of her job.
Asked to manage the estate of a Woodson Falls resident, Pieter Jorgenson (a man she never met) she gladly accepts only to learn the case has many loose ends and extends way beyond her regular skillset.
For me, Jorgenson’s character provides great mystery from the outset – neighbours and family despise him, others in town find him friendly and creative in his role as crossing guard at a local school. There is something very iffy about him, and Gaby has her work cut out in sorting his affairs and getting to the truth behind the man who was found dead in his truck back in NYC.
In addition to discovering more about Jorgenson so that she can settle his affairs and pass on any inheritance, there are a couple of subplots running alongside that delve more into Gaby’s past, her husband’s murder, and the amiable officer, Matt Thomas who helps her out more than once. Their frequent connections suggest we’ll be hearing more about Gaby and Matt in future books.
16 LakeView Terrace proved to be a most interesting mystery, with an excellent twist when it came to finally understanding the chilling character of Pieter Jorgenson. For the most part I found it to be a compelling read, maybe a tad heavy on the procedures of her job, nonetheless a fascinating read with well-drawn characters with intriguing backstories to be explored.
Woodson Falls is definitely a place I’ll revisit. My thanks to the author, Emerald Lake Books and Netgalley for my copy which I have reviewed freely.
Can I just add that the cover may look a little creepy but all will become clear when you read the book at which point “creepy” is an understatement!
Gaby Quinn has finally found peace with her life, the move to Woodson Falls having been good for her after the murder of her husband in New York not so long ago. Gaby was there when he died, suffering injuries of her own when an unknown assailant attacked them both for no apparent reason. Mentally, emotionally and physically scarred, she sets up her estate law practice in the home left to her by her grandfather. With only her dog, Kat, for company, she enjoys the less stressful pace of life and the intricacies of her job.
Asked to manage the estate of a Woodson Falls resident, Pieter Jorgenson (a man she never met) she gladly accepts only to learn the case has many loose ends and extends way beyond her regular skillset.
For me, Jorgenson’s character provides great mystery from the outset – neighbours and family despise him, others in town find him friendly and creative in his role as crossing guard at a local school. There is something very iffy about him, and Gaby has her work cut out in sorting his affairs and getting to the truth behind the man who was found dead in his truck back in NYC.
In addition to discovering more about Jorgenson so that she can settle his affairs and pass on any inheritance, there are a couple of subplots running alongside that delve more into Gaby’s past, her husband’s murder, and the amiable officer, Matt Thomas who helps her out more than once. Their frequent connections suggest we’ll be hearing more about Gaby and Matt in future books.
16 LakeView Terrace proved to be a most interesting mystery, with an excellent twist when it came to finally understanding the chilling character of Pieter Jorgenson. For the most part I found it to be a compelling read, maybe a tad heavy on the procedures of her job, nonetheless a fascinating read with well-drawn characters with intriguing backstories to be explored.
Woodson Falls is definitely a place I’ll revisit. My thanks to the author, Emerald Lake Books and Netgalley for my copy which I have reviewed freely.
Can I just add that the cover may look a little creepy but all will become clear when you read the book at which point “creepy” is an understatement!
October 9, 2020
159 pages
4 stars
This book has a unique premise. We meet Gabriella “Gaby” Quinn who is a probate attorney who is asked to take the case of a recently deceased Pieter Jorgenson.
I have never been involved in a probate so I had no idea what to expect from this book. But it was fascinating to learn all the steps and procedures involved in the process. I had no idea. I guess I just figured it happened in the ozone or something...
Still recovering from a vicious knife attack that killed her husband, Gaby has moved home, so to speak. She grew up in the little village and feels safe and comfortable there. She has opened a solo practice and keeps busy enough to sustain life ofr herself and her dog Kat.
When she visits Pieter Jorgenson's home, she learns that it is isolated, doesn't have all the required utilities for habitation and has a neighbor who is/was suing him. For some reason, the house is creepy and makes Gaby uncomfortable.
What she ultimately finds out is explosive.
This book meanders a bit. Gaby has many friends – and that's good, but perhaps a little too much time is spent schmoozing. I liked Gaby and hope her relationship with Trooper Matt blooms. I like her determination in the face of her fears and her dedicated work ethic. I look forward to reading the next in the series. Hopefully, there is a next...
I want to thank NetGalley and Emerald Lake Books/IBPA for forwarding to me a copy of this very good novella for me to read, enjoy and review.
4 stars
This book has a unique premise. We meet Gabriella “Gaby” Quinn who is a probate attorney who is asked to take the case of a recently deceased Pieter Jorgenson.
I have never been involved in a probate so I had no idea what to expect from this book. But it was fascinating to learn all the steps and procedures involved in the process. I had no idea. I guess I just figured it happened in the ozone or something...
Still recovering from a vicious knife attack that killed her husband, Gaby has moved home, so to speak. She grew up in the little village and feels safe and comfortable there. She has opened a solo practice and keeps busy enough to sustain life ofr herself and her dog Kat.
When she visits Pieter Jorgenson's home, she learns that it is isolated, doesn't have all the required utilities for habitation and has a neighbor who is/was suing him. For some reason, the house is creepy and makes Gaby uncomfortable.
What she ultimately finds out is explosive.
This book meanders a bit. Gaby has many friends – and that's good, but perhaps a little too much time is spent schmoozing. I liked Gaby and hope her relationship with Trooper Matt blooms. I like her determination in the face of her fears and her dedicated work ethic. I look forward to reading the next in the series. Hopefully, there is a next...
I want to thank NetGalley and Emerald Lake Books/IBPA for forwarding to me a copy of this very good novella for me to read, enjoy and review.
October 9, 2020
The first of a series about the small town of Woodson Falls - located in Connecticut in the midst of the fabulous display of leaf colours in the Autumn, cold winter weather and generally spectacular scenery. There is lots of detail to introduce us to the town and its inhabitants. This first book tells us the story of a property in the town, the address being the title of the book. Gaby Quinn, the local attorney is asked to administer the estate of the deceased owner who doesn’t have much in the way of family - or friends for that matter. At one point he seems to be a Jekyll and Hyde character - unfriendly and surly to his neighbours but on the other hand volunteers as a school crossing guard and is kind to the children. The story kept me turning the pages until the early hours. It is very well written with good characterisation and the plot unfolds at a steady pace. I very much enjoyed the detail of Gaby’s scrutiny of the deceased’s personal effects which leads her to the resolution of the mystery. A very enjoyable read and hopefully there will be more of the same in the future. Thanks to the author and NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book in return for my honest opinion.
December 19, 2020
Woodson Falls:16 Lakeview Terrace is a crime-thriller by Andrea O'Connor, which centers around Gaby, a real-estate lawyer being handed a case of settling the will of a man who had died unexpectedly in a different town, intestate. Having to deal with the affairs of a dead man and finding more about his case, the life of Pieter Jorgenson seemed odd and peculiar. As if something is strange about the man, but Gaby can't figure out why.
Gaby Quinn is a single women who has made Woodson Falls her home, after a vicious attack on the streets of New York that left her husband, the love of her life, dead and her face, slashed. The man responsible was never indentified by the NYPD. But a fresh start in a small town started unraveling the moment she took Pieter Jorgenson's case. And being a lawyer she has to run down all the leads without being aware what it leads to. With a past trauma to deal with, Gaby digs deeper into the case and into Jorgenson's past transactions. And the more she finds out, the more puzzling everything becomes.
This book's pace was quite slow throughout, with a single jaw-dropping reveal that only some can foresee.
Gaby Quinn is a single women who has made Woodson Falls her home, after a vicious attack on the streets of New York that left her husband, the love of her life, dead and her face, slashed. The man responsible was never indentified by the NYPD. But a fresh start in a small town started unraveling the moment she took Pieter Jorgenson's case. And being a lawyer she has to run down all the leads without being aware what it leads to. With a past trauma to deal with, Gaby digs deeper into the case and into Jorgenson's past transactions. And the more she finds out, the more puzzling everything becomes.
This book's pace was quite slow throughout, with a single jaw-dropping reveal that only some can foresee.
October 3, 2020
Gabrielle Quinn opened her own law office in Woodson Falls while trying to recover from the death of her husband. She enjoys the small-town pace and running with her dog Katrina. When she is asked to handle the probate on a home in town she willing agrees. The owner of the home, Pieter Jorgenson, died unexpectedly in New York and this will mean communicating between the police and medical examiner in New York as well as his last known relatives. As she learns more about him, she realizes that he was not liked by anyone, including his relatives. Searching through his home reveals several odd rooms and collections that makes her uneasy, what was he up to? Gaby is shocked and horrified when circumstances reveal his secret life. A little slow paced due to the enormous amount of research involved probate, but an interesting read. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
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June 27, 202116 LAKEVIEW TERRACE - Andrea O'Connor
I received this to my Kindle for the purpose of review from Book Sirens.
Ms. O'Connor is a brilliant writer and gives great word pictures from a legal standpoint and as well from a medical background.
This fiction mystery is outstanding without any graphic details and offensive language. I appreciated that.
Woodson Falls is a small town in Connecticut and Gaby Quinn is the hometown attorney who is requested to be the executor of a will falling the death of Mr. Jorgensen. Now Jorgensen is not what one would call a neighbor who suddenly died. He is his own special character and the more Ms. Quinn investigates the more she is confused as to who this man is.
Well written and keeping your interest up to finish the book, the book closes and you find out the entire circle of events.
I highly recommend this book and any future books by Ms. O'Connor.
#Goodreads #BookSirens #16Lakeview Terrace
I received this to my Kindle for the purpose of review from Book Sirens.
Ms. O'Connor is a brilliant writer and gives great word pictures from a legal standpoint and as well from a medical background.
This fiction mystery is outstanding without any graphic details and offensive language. I appreciated that.
Woodson Falls is a small town in Connecticut and Gaby Quinn is the hometown attorney who is requested to be the executor of a will falling the death of Mr. Jorgensen. Now Jorgensen is not what one would call a neighbor who suddenly died. He is his own special character and the more Ms. Quinn investigates the more she is confused as to who this man is.
Well written and keeping your interest up to finish the book, the book closes and you find out the entire circle of events.
I highly recommend this book and any future books by Ms. O'Connor.
#Goodreads #BookSirens #16Lakeview Terrace
August 28, 2021
This is a pleasant enough mystery novella set in New England. Gaby is a small-town lawyer assigned to sort out the estate of a recently deceased man who'd been involved in a property dispute with his neighbour. The setting is pleasing and the array of local characters are interesting, though I thought some of the conversations between characters were a little wooden; obviously meant to impart information but not coming across like natural conversations. I also think it’s a pity there wasn’t more made of her relationship with the dog. There weren’t really enough interactions between them to get any sense of the dog’s personality. The mystery denouement was quite a bit darker than I was expecting. I think this could be an enjoyable cosy mystery for someone who likes this kind of peaceful small-town setting, and is looking for a light quick read with a disturbing twist.
I received a copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy from BookSirens in exchange for an honest review.
October 12, 2020
This book has a great premise (and great promise). A small town lawyer needs to deal with the estate of a surly resident who died out of town. In preparing for probate, her routine information gathering reveals a disturbing crime. The bones of this book are good, but I feel like it needs to be fleshed out to have a greater impact on the reader. It just feels flat, even though the author writes descriptions full of adjectives (I counted one sentence that was 51 words long!). Two things that stood out for me were: the checklist feel of the duties Gaby did for the estate, and the over introduction of irrelevant townspeople which served only to confuse me, not enhance the story. If there was more action and suspense I think the book could come to life.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you to BookSirens and the author for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
March 25, 2021
Very good for a first novel. It is easy to see the technical style of the author from her previous careers in nursing and the law. It is a quick,easy read with a predictable story. A definite 3.5 rounded to a 4. The writing is clean, clear and has a nice flow but lacks a lot of depth in characters and plot and maybe a little too many stops for food and cafe chat that serves just to have you turn the pages quicker. However, you will turn the pages and find a nice short read. It will be interesting to see this character grow and the stories become more that you want to be the proverbial "fly on the wall" and see and feel the events as they occur. I was provided an advanced reader copy of the book and was under no obligation to write a review. The opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the author, publisher and BookSirens for allowing me to read this book.
June 30, 2021
Woodson Falls: 16 Lakeview Terrace is a good effort at a first novel by Andrea O’Connor. It could have been better if the pacing had been more even throughout. The beginning chapters dragged a bit with descriptions about what the main character, estate lawyer Gaby Quinn, had to do as executor of the estate of a man she never met. The story picked up, but the ending seemed abrupt. I would have liked a couple more chapters about what happened after Gaby makes a discovery at the dead man’s home, but it went straight to the epilogue, which starts one year later. I also didn’t need to know everything Gaby ate, or was planning to eat. That information did not add to the story. I liked O’Connor’s descriptions of different townspeople in Woodson Falls. Thanks to BookSirens for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2021
Gaby is the only lawyer in her small town and ends up with a wide variety of cases. She moved back from New York City to where she spent many happy summers. Gaby is suffering PTSD from a violent event in the city, with the help of her support dog. When Gaby is involved in settling the estate of a man no one seems to know much about (and many disliked), she learns everything is not as it seems.
I really liked the character of Gaby. She is independent, but able to ask for and accept help when needed. The mystery was well-crafted, the characters well-rounded, and I have already started the next book in this series! Some questions about her past are left unanswered; maybe to be covered in a later book?
I really liked the character of Gaby. She is independent, but able to ask for and accept help when needed. The mystery was well-crafted, the characters well-rounded, and I have already started the next book in this series! Some questions about her past are left unanswered; maybe to be covered in a later book?
June 18, 2021
This is a creepy book about a lawyer in the small Connecticut town of Woodson Falls. You can't help but like Gaby and her dog Kat. Recovering from the death of her husband in an attack in New York City, Gaby moved into the cottage left to her by her grandfather In Woodson Falls, Connecticut and set up a solo law practice doing mostly estate law and wills. She is appointed administrator of the estate of Pieter Jorgenson. You only meet Pieter in the prologue but you can just tell he is up to no good. Pieter is an odd man. No one has much good to say about him, even his one surviving relative. His neighbors don't like him. When he turns up dead in New York City Gaby has to return to the city to close the case and claim the body. While cleaning out the house Gaby finds some strange handmade dolls and other strange stuff but she can't get into the room at the bottom of the house until she finds the key in NYC. I knew the book felt creepy but I never guessed what the really creepy part was! This was a good mystery that kept me reading to the end and looking forward to hearing more about Woodson Falls, Gaby, and Matt.
November 3, 2020
It all started with a land dispute, then someone ended up dead. Gabby Quinn moved to Woodson Falls to escape from the memories of the night her husband was killed and she was injured. Now she is an estate lawyer trying to settle the estate of Pieter Jorgenson, someone not well-liked in his new neighborhood. But he died in New York. What was he doing there? And there are strange pictures of different places in New York in his house. Oh, and a room locked up that Gabby hasn't found a key to. This story is very unique and not your 'run of the mill' lawyer story. I found it very entertaining and fast-paced. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book from BookSirens.
June 30, 2021
Gabriella “Gaby” Quinn is a probate attorney who is asked to take the case of a recently deceased Pieter Jorgenson. Surprisingly, the writing style was simple and enjoyable.
The characters are likable and there is a potential for romance in the future. It was an entertaining read and I look forward to reading more books in the Woodson Falls Series.
Well written and keeping your interest up to finish the book ........
I highly recommend this book and any future books by Ms. O'Connor.
I would like to thank Andrea O'Connor, Emerald Lane Books, and BookSirens for this opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The characters are likable and there is a potential for romance in the future. It was an entertaining read and I look forward to reading more books in the Woodson Falls Series.
Well written and keeping your interest up to finish the book ........
I highly recommend this book and any future books by Ms. O'Connor.
I would like to thank Andrea O'Connor, Emerald Lane Books, and BookSirens for this opportunity to read this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
November 7, 2020
Driven by the dialogue style writing of the author, the story starts on a mellow tone turning into a mysterious death and an even mysterious property. The book can easily be converted into a series or a movie because the author provides authencity to the incidents that occur by the conversation. What I wanted more in the book was the character sketch to be more elaborate and a little more deep but it's the simplicity of the plot that gives it the authenticity of a regular attorneys lifestyle and experience.
December 12, 2020
This was a very interesting cozy. I enjoyed the process of administering the estate of someone. All of the items that are needed to close out someone's estate was fascinating. The characters were fairly well developed while leaving us wondering about some things. Hopefully more will be revealed in future books. The mystery was good and kept things interesting. Am looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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