A bookshop of one's own...Jemma's dream of running her own bookshop is turning into a nightmare. She has plenty of ideas, but her assistant Maddy is resistant to the slightest change. Come to that, so are the customers. She'd turn to boyfriend Carl for support, but he's wrapped up in an exciting new project.
To distract herself, Jemma gets involved in Raphael's attempt to recruit a new member of staff - but that doesn't go entirely to plan either, as his wider team turns against him.
Despite their best efforts, Jemma and Raphael are both struggling to cope. Can they work out what's going on and get their lives back to normal before they run out of time?
Double Booked is the third in the Magical Bookshop humorous mystery series, set in modern London.
I grew up in south London, did an English degree, and then took forever to start writing. The stories started to grow longer...and then the murders began!
I tend to write Victorian mysteries of a not-too-scary nature. I've somehow managed to have 3 separate Sherlock Holmes-themed series (why make things easy?). I also co-wrote the Caster & Fleet mystery series with Paula Harmon, and my Maisie Frobisher Mysteries series is a spinoff from that.
I write a modern cozy mystery series, Pippa Parker Mysteries, and my newest series, The Magical Bookshop, is a cozy mystery series with a touch of fantasy and magic.
Visit my website for book info, links to stories, and my blog, in which I ramble on about all sorts of things. Hope to see you soon.
This is the latest in the 'Magical Bookshop' series, another fairly short, but nevertheless very enjoyable light hearted read. In this book Jemma has taken over BJF Antiquarian Books which Raphael won from Brian in the previous book in the series, 'Brought to Book', but she finds herself very dissatisfied, she doesn't know enough about the very expensive it sells and definitely doesn't feel at home in the shop, things aren't helped by the shop assistant Maddy, who rebels against any suggestion of change. Raphael also has his problems with complaints about how he is fulfilling his role as 'Keeper' in the mysterious magical organisation that he works for, and particularly with his approach to recruitment, which Jemma has advised him on, using her business expertise, which is a bit awkward as he wants her to apply. This is an original story, very engaging and with gentle humour in it, peopled by great characters, even if some aren't quite what they seem, and sprinkled with a little bit of romance, making it an enjoyable and engaging read. The only caveat that I would make is that it really needs to be read in sequence with the the other books in the series, starting with 'Every Trick in the Book' as they provide context for some of the characters and situations in this book. This is why I have marked this book down from 5 stars to 4, some more context of the 'Keepers' organisation and a little more background to the characters would have made this book more understandable if it was read without the preceding books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Like the first two books in this series, _Double Booked_ is amazingly good! I read it in one day! I am sure that I will be rereading it and the first two books (I initially listened to the first two on audiobooks) at least several times! I’m so happy that the description of the first book enticed me to listen to the it and that I bought books 1–3 to listen to (the narrator is a woman named Charlie someone; I didn’t see her name and so don’t recall it but not because she doesn’t do a brilliant job! The audiobooks are awesome because of her!). I will buy all these e-books and probably audiobooks 4-6 if they become available and are narrated by the same woman. But only if they are narrated by the same female Charlie! She is fabulous at reading these books! I love the way she can make each character have a unique voice; this makes it easier for a visual learner like I am to follow along with the auditory experience. I send my congratulations to the publisher of the audiobooks on such a great hire! And I send my thanks to the author, Liz Hedgecock, for writing such exceptional books! For the last twenty years, I have read and even enjoyed some books (especially David Eddings’ Belgariad series) but couldn’t tell you their titles or authors’ names because they haven’t been memorable to me with very, very few exceptions, see above). Now I must go so that I can begin reading the next book in The Magical Bookshop series!
Jemma James is struggling with running her own bookstore and balancing her work and private lives. Strangely, it appears that she is not the only one and Raphael seems to be going into a dark place, neglecting his shop and his cat, Folio. Carl, her boyfriend, seems too busy to spend any time with her and her assistant, Maddy, is maddeningly alternating between cooperation and sabotage. Jemma is also acting Assistant Keeper under Raphael and overwhelmed with her responsibilities. Something is definitely wrong and Jemma must figure out what it is before the situation deteriorates further. Once again, Jemma shows her courage and resourcefulness and embarks upon her plan to restore both bookstores and the people who have become like family. As she works diligently with the aid of Raphael, danger draws closer and they must work together to expose the guilty and neutralize the threat. The atmosphere of darkness and shadow is haunting and the story plays out at a rapid pace as they approach the final confrontation. If you read the first two books in the series, you will love this one. If you haven’t experienced a visit to these unique shops, I highly recommend you set aside some time to read all three novels. You are definitely in for a treat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I received my ARC I was struck by a slight disappointment in the first couple of chapters. But as I read on I realised that Jemma is now in charge of her own bookshop and the scene had to be set for the story unfold. She has to contend with a member of staff that appears to have a duel personality and totally undermining her authority, and the fact that Raphael Burns from Burns Bookshop appears to be under threat of losing his position.
This book has brought out a more serious side to the series and I began to wonder just what it was that made me read on. The answer for me was .... the way Liz Hedgecock writes. I can equate to the character of Jemma. I’ve been there and done that. I know what the situation is like and the emotions that go with it. This, to me, is the sign of a good writer. Someone who can capture the attention of the reader in whatever genre of book. “Brought to Book” does this perfectly for me. She uses everyday situations, people and places adds the twist of enchantment and magic and writes “what if?”. It works for me so I recommend you read it and see if it works for you. This book is best read after Books 1 and 2 so that you can follow the thread.
The threats to the bookstore have not ended. Mysterious threatening letters have resumed. There are problems at the new bookstore, the one acquired at the end of the last book, and there is a distinct and growing sense of unease affecting the original bookshop, as well.
As Jenna has grown into her responsibilities in the original bookshop, her special abilities have grown, as well. She, the owner and other staff have worked well together to identify and solve other problems along the way. But, Jemma feels isolated at the new bookshop. She misses her friends. She misses the owner and the bookshop cat. The previous manager of the other bookshop refuses to acknowledge her authority as manager a large part of the time, but Jemma hasn't learned enough about running the second bookshop to do it alone. This is related to another threat to both bookshops and the owner and staff. Each threat is increasingly serious. It will take a concerted effort to deal with each one. Failure is not an option. Catastrophic damage is imminent unless the truth can be uncovered! In every book, the owner and Jemma confront the threats head-on! Keep reading!
This is a enjoyable series that involves magic, just not the way you might think. Also a magical cat, of course. There are two delightful Charing Cross bookshops now. But will either survive? Jemma has her own bookshop now just down the road from Burns Books. Of course, it's Raphael's bookstore, won in the challenge with Brian, the former Assistant Keeper of the antiquarian bookshop. But Brian still casts a long shadow. Maddy, Brian's assistant manager has continued to work in the shop but she blows hot and cold when Jemma tries to change things around. She appears friendly & helpful but suddenly reverses Jemma's decisions without asking which undermines Jemma's shaky confidence in herself. Meanwhile, Raphael, as Keeper of England, must hire a new Assistant Keeper to replace Brian. He offers Jemma a temporary place as AK but that kicks off what seems a firestorm of protest against Raphael. The Old Guard in not happy with Jemma's proposed changes. Will both Jemma and Raphael lose their jobs? And does Brian have a hand in all the chaos?
Jemma James has taken over the BJF Antiquarian Books after Raphael won the Keepers position challenge. But every charge Jemma decides to make is unacceptable to the assistant, Maddy who came with the bookshop. Maddy seems like she has split personality. Meanwhile Raphael is experiencing a setback in the form of a letter of warning for his Keeper position. The magic seems to be fading unless both Raphael and Jemma find a reasonable solution. Will they be able to do so or will they face failure at their book bookshops? Enter the magic in the story!!! I thought the story was interesting plus intriguing. I enjoyed watching the characters grow. This is book # 3 in the Magical Bookshop series. Reading of the first two book will help the reader understand the happenings in this well created story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jemma has finally got the chance to run her very own bookshop but what should be a dream for her appears to be a nightmare. She wants to change the route the shop is taking by selling some fiction books and slightly improving how the feel of the shop is through a little redecorating but every time she does anything the changes appear to be undone. She does like the shop assistant but can she be trusted? To make things even more stressful Raphael has had everyone turn against him when he looks at making some changes to hiring a new member of staff and the terms of employment they will offer but can the two things be linked or is this all just coincidence?
The third instalment of the series has once again proven to be a great read and shows no signs of the series weakening as Liz Hedgecock has delivered a story that works well whilst we continue to have the characters we have grown to love.
Last time, Raphael was successful in winning a Keeper challenge, which gave him the loser's antiquarian bookstore as the prize. Jemma is the manager, but it's not going so well. She wants to make changes, but the remaining store clerk, as well as some of the customers, are obstructing her. Also, business advice she gave Raphael is causing an uproar in the ranks of assistant Keepers and may cost him the Keepership. All seems lost until they manage to figure out where the skulduggery is coming from. Another fun but involving mystery that is resolved to just about everyone's satisfaction. I can't wait to read more of this series, and I hope it comes soon.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Being manager of her own bookstore does not turn out to be the fantasy Jemma dreamed about. Her employee Maddy turns out to be erratic and counteractive, her boyfriend Carl does not act supportive at all, and her boss Raphael has gotten himself into a pickle while searching for a new Assistant Keeper. As a result, Jemma is struggling to cope, feeling vulnerable and lonely. I love the development of her character, and her interaction with Maddy. After really enjoying the first two books in this series, I was looking forward to the third one. And Liz Hedgecock delivered yet another well-crafted humorous mystery. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found the start of this third instalment in the series a little slow. Being a new business owner myself I completely understand how Jemma feels being thrust into making all the decisions herself, especially with Maddy undermining her at every turn. I appreciated the continued character development in this book and how Jemma has started to come out of her shell and grow both personally and professionally. After a slow start, I found this book delightful and a wonderful continuation of the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I adore this series and hope there are many more books in it.
Jemma is now running her own bookstore, or at least trying to with much opposition from her assistant. There are many strange things happening in both bookstores and trying to figure out what is causing all the upset is strange and wonderful all at the same time. I truly wish there were ten more books written for this series as they touch me deeply as I have secretly always thought working in a bookstore would be right up my alley as the bookworm I am and have always been. Don't miss the chance to read this delightful series and I will be waiting with baited breath for the next book to be ready.
I would not consider this a stand alone book. I started it and was completely lost! So, being a reader, I promptly read the previous books so I had a clue. After that, I really enjoyed this book. The characters are interesting and eccentric. The story was well written and engaging. I did read that this was perhaps the final book in the series. If so, that is too bad - if not, the door is open with lots of possibilities! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Since Raphael won the challenge against Brian and became the head keeper of his district, Jemma has taken over the running of Brian's bookstore. She is faced with numerous problems with her assistant Maddy. Raphael is searching for an assistant keeper for the district and asks Jemma for help writing this advertisement. One thing leads to another and progress on either front is slowed down. What or who is causing the problems? It is up to Raphael and Jemma to search for answers. Do they win or lose?
Two magical bookshops and the chaos and suspense that surrounds them before the mystery is figured out. So much happens so fast in this storyline and the effects are intense. Finding out what is really going on and all the quirks that go with that was fun and thrilling. The characters all had great parts to play in the drama. So sorry to see this storyline end for now. Maybe the author can do a series off to the side.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Double Booked is the 3rd book of the Magical Bookshop series. Jemma is now in charge of her own bookshop with a vision of what she wants it to be, but her assistant Maddy blows hot and cold about the changes. Meanwhile Raphael is struggling in his job as Keeper, and appoints Jemma as his Assistant Keeper. A familiar villain resurfaces and they head to Wales to deal with him.
The book is a short, light and enjoyable read. The character of Jemma is becoming more confident and more interesting and the cast of characters is entertaining.
Magic and wonderment fill this story to the max. Love the magical bookstore and Jemma’s new bookstore. Both have that wonderful feeling of being a place you want to spend time exploring. This series is able to take you away from whatever you are doing and transport you to a magical place. As the third book in the series the characters are like old friends. Highly recommend this series to all cozy readers.
Jemma faces some significant challenges at the Friendly bookshop. The stodgy clientele, and stifling existing rules of management seem suffocating
Could more be at work? Constricting maneuvers resulting in damage to store, staff and stock are multi pronged assaults on harmony and successful business
Can the shop and personal matters be successfully sorted for Jemma?
Drama and mayhem
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I found Liz Hedgecock's Sherlock and Jack mysteries through a review and fell in love with her style. Double Booked is equally appealing, a cozy mystery, one of several involving the magic bookshop and set in modern times, and again a short, tight read with personable protagonists and a good mystery. She is an author I will follow, one I can heartily recommend to friends and family.
Reviewed on Goodreads on November 18, 2020. Reviewed on AmazonSmile November 20, 2020. Not available for review on B&N, BookBub, Kobo, or GooglePlay.
Raphael and Jemma are confronted with new challenges in this book and also have to deal with strong inner feelings. However, friends are always present for them and they overcome their problems. Double Booked is a tad more serious than the previous books in the series but it´s just adorable. I wonder what new challenges the next book in the series will bring. Really entertaining.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jemma is having difficulty setting her stamp on the bookstore, especially with Maddie so reluctant to change anything. Meanwhile, Raphael is in crisis, but Jemma is at a loss as to how to help. Double Booked had me reading nonstop and I have especially enjoyed Jemma’s character development from the first book throughout the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Brian is back! Brian is a rotter. Gemma tries to manage her own shop with mixed success, and her new assistant Maddy is oddly contradictory. Seriously, you can guess the plot by page 20 but the series is getting into its stride now. What I particularly like about this book is how the two shops are very different. I’ve know a bookseller on Charing Cross Road, and The Friendly Bookshop fits in rather better. Plus we start to get the feeling that this world might get bigger…
I can't seem to stop reading this series, although I'm usually not a binge reader. What I like about these books is that each one holds a new surprise, moving a little deeper into the realm of magic. The main characters are well known and loved by now, and yet I keep discovering new things about them that make them even dearer to me. I can't say much about the story for fear of spoilers, so I'll stick with this: Read it folks, you won't regret it. Unless you hate magic, that is.
Once again, Jemma shows her courage and resourcefulness and embarks upon her plan to restore both bookstores and the people who have become like family. Danger draws closer, and they must work together to expose the guilty and neutralize the threat. The atmosphere of darkness and shadow is haunting, and the story plays out at a rapid pace as they approach the final confrontation.
I will NOT continue with this cozy fantasy mystery series.
I thought we finally get more magic because we got more magic in the second book and because the series is called Magical bookshop but there are only little bit of magic and mostly this feels like magical realism and I don't like magical realism. If you promise me fantasy story and also promise me a sassy cat, you need start delivering these promises in third book. Yes, there are a cat called Folio but he is NOT big part of story.
Jemma now has her own bookshop to run, but it’s not all smooth sailing. Her assistant is resistant to making changes and Raphael also gets into some trouble.
I enjoyed watching Jemma grow and her relationships with the other members of the team. The mystery in this one was fairly obvious but it was still satisfying to watch them solve it. I definitely enjoyed listening to this trio of novellas.
Jemma is the manager of the bookstore with an assistant Maddy, who doesn’t help with improvements she actually rebels against them. She’s just unhappy and she doesn’t get to see her boyfriend Carl much. Great characters ! Magical bookstores and humor are all wrapped up in this cozy mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A new shop, with new struggles. A new employee, but an old enemy. Managing her own bookshop is more of a challenge than Jemma had ever anticipated. But, with help of Raphael, Carl en Luke, she will manage. The magic is still going strong! I received a copy from Booksprout and chose to review it.