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European Voyage #1
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DELITTO (E BAKLAVA) è il romanzo di debutto di una nuova e affascinante serie di gialli scritta dall’autore bestseller numero #1 Blake Pierce, il cui romanzo IL KILLER DELLA ROSA ha oltre 1.500 recensioni a cinque stelle.
Quando London Rose, 33 anni, riceve la proposta di matrimonio dal suo fidanzato di lunga data, si rende conto di trovarsi a dover affrontare una vita stabile, prevedibile, predeterminata (e priva di passione). Si spaventa e scappa, accettando invece un lavoro oltreoceano come guida turistica in una linea di crociere di lusso in Europa. London sta cercando una vita emozionante, improvvisata e più romantica che è sicura di poter trovare da qualche altra parte.
London è felice: le cittadine di fiume europee sono piccole, storiche e affascinanti. Le viene offerta l’occasione di vedere un porto diverso ogni sera, può assaggiare un’infinita gamma di piatti diversi e incontrare una fiumana di gente interessante. È il sogno di ogni viaggiatore, ed è tutt’altro che prevedibile.
Ma quando un ricco passeggero improvvisamente viene trovato morto fuori da Budapest, la crociera si trasforma in qualcosa di un po’ troppo imprevedibile. Ancora peggio: essendo l’ultima persona ad averlo visto vivo, i sospetti ricadono su London e questo non le lascia altra scelta che risolvere il crimine (con il suo nuovo braccio destro, un cane orfano) salvando la sua linea di crociere e se stessa.
Quando London Rose, 33 anni, riceve la proposta di matrimonio dal suo fidanzato di lunga data, si rende conto di trovarsi a dover affrontare una vita stabile, prevedibile, predeterminata (e priva di passione). Si spaventa e scappa, accettando invece un lavoro oltreoceano come guida turistica in una linea di crociere di lusso in Europa. London sta cercando una vita emozionante, improvvisata e più romantica che è sicura di poter trovare da qualche altra parte.
London è felice: le cittadine di fiume europee sono piccole, storiche e affascinanti. Le viene offerta l’occasione di vedere un porto diverso ogni sera, può assaggiare un’infinita gamma di piatti diversi e incontrare una fiumana di gente interessante. È il sogno di ogni viaggiatore, ed è tutt’altro che prevedibile.
Ma quando un ricco passeggero improvvisamente viene trovato morto fuori da Budapest, la crociera si trasforma in qualcosa di un po’ troppo imprevedibile. Ancora peggio: essendo l’ultima persona ad averlo visto vivo, i sospetti ricadono su London e questo non le lascia altra scelta che risolvere il crimine (con il suo nuovo braccio destro, un cane orfano) salvando la sua linea di crociere e se stessa.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2020
828 people are currently reading
1016 people want to read
About the author
Blake Pierce
685 books5,782 followersBlake Pierce is author of the bestselling RILEY PAGE mystery series, which includes seven books (and counting). Blake Pierce is also the author of the MACKENZIE WHITE mystery series, comprising four books (and counting); of the AVERY BLACK mystery series, comprising four books (and counting); and of the new KERI LOCKE mystery series.
An avid reader and lifelong fan of the mystery and thriller genres, Blake loves to hear from you, so please feel free to visit www.blakepierceauthor.com to learn more and stay in touch.
An avid reader and lifelong fan of the mystery and thriller genres, Blake loves to hear from you, so please feel free to visit www.blakepierceauthor.com to learn more and stay in touch.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 216 reviews
December 14, 2020
I have been reading books since the early 1950s and reviewing/posting the reviews for the past decade. I do not know how I missed BLAKE PIERCE for all of those years. I have just read book one in the European Voyage Cozy Mystery series entitled MURDER (AND BAKLAVA). It has two components that I am very fond of – baklava (a dessert) and European travel. It is also a very good mystery with compelling characters. The author written and published nearly 100 books, mostly in genres I like to read. Why have I not heard of Blake before now?
London Rose is the protagonist of this series. Until this story begins, London had been a hostess/cruise director on ocean going cruise ships owned by Epoch World Cruise Line. While on a break, her boyfriend, Ian Mitchell, proposes “a merger” between them. London’s sister had arranged their first date over a year earlier and she is all for “the merger”. At that point, a bombshell is dropped into London’s life.
Jeremy Lapham owner of Epoch offers London a new position (and a promotion), Cruise Director of his newest ship, Nachtmusik. This is the first of Epoch’s new European River cruise ships. He has sold off his ocean liners for financial reasons. His only hope to stay in business is a successful inaugural river cruise. London agrees. Ian terminates his “merger” proposal.
London flies to Budapest where she joins the crew of Nachtmusik on its premiere two-week cruise up the Danube to the Rhine. That is one of my bucket list items to do. On board, London renews her friendship with Elsie Sloan, chief bartender. She meets her top assistant Amy Blasingame (the concierge) whom Elsie calls “the river troll”. Amy wanted the job London was given.
Among the other staff of the ship is Emil Waldmuller who is the ship’s historian and Bryce Yeaton the head chef and medical advisor. Of course, there is a ship’s captain as well. In addition, there are other crewmembers on board.
On her first day in Budapest, London organizes a city tour and dinner (at Duna Etterem) with about ten cruisers and a couple of other staff. One of the guests Mrs. Klimoski, whom all dislike, flaunts her wealth, is obnoxious and carries in a bag her champion Yorkshire terrier Sir Reginald Taft. At the café where they go to for dinner, their waiter makes a fuss about the dog. A stranger, an economics professor smoothes thing out. He also recommends a restaurant, Magyar Orom, in Gyor, the next stop on the cruise.
The next day, London organizes a city tour in Gyor for the same group with lunch at the recommended restaurant. Another confrontation takes place with a strolling street violinist. Afterwards, Mrs. Klimoski disappears with her dog. The dog returns to the café and starts barking at the cruisers. London follows the dog to the cathedral. She goes inside and finds the dog’s owner sitting in a pew. However, Mrs. Klimoski is dead.
Enter the local police who start an investigation. The ship’s departure is to be delayed until the case is solved. London’s boss says to her “solve the case”. Which she does with help of the dog and a sunflower.
This is a fun book with a clever murder/murderer woven into the fabric of the story. Fans of mysteries and travel will enjoy this story. I plan to read the other five in this series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
GO! BUY! READ!
London Rose is the protagonist of this series. Until this story begins, London had been a hostess/cruise director on ocean going cruise ships owned by Epoch World Cruise Line. While on a break, her boyfriend, Ian Mitchell, proposes “a merger” between them. London’s sister had arranged their first date over a year earlier and she is all for “the merger”. At that point, a bombshell is dropped into London’s life.
Jeremy Lapham owner of Epoch offers London a new position (and a promotion), Cruise Director of his newest ship, Nachtmusik. This is the first of Epoch’s new European River cruise ships. He has sold off his ocean liners for financial reasons. His only hope to stay in business is a successful inaugural river cruise. London agrees. Ian terminates his “merger” proposal.
London flies to Budapest where she joins the crew of Nachtmusik on its premiere two-week cruise up the Danube to the Rhine. That is one of my bucket list items to do. On board, London renews her friendship with Elsie Sloan, chief bartender. She meets her top assistant Amy Blasingame (the concierge) whom Elsie calls “the river troll”. Amy wanted the job London was given.
Among the other staff of the ship is Emil Waldmuller who is the ship’s historian and Bryce Yeaton the head chef and medical advisor. Of course, there is a ship’s captain as well. In addition, there are other crewmembers on board.
On her first day in Budapest, London organizes a city tour and dinner (at Duna Etterem) with about ten cruisers and a couple of other staff. One of the guests Mrs. Klimoski, whom all dislike, flaunts her wealth, is obnoxious and carries in a bag her champion Yorkshire terrier Sir Reginald Taft. At the café where they go to for dinner, their waiter makes a fuss about the dog. A stranger, an economics professor smoothes thing out. He also recommends a restaurant, Magyar Orom, in Gyor, the next stop on the cruise.
The next day, London organizes a city tour in Gyor for the same group with lunch at the recommended restaurant. Another confrontation takes place with a strolling street violinist. Afterwards, Mrs. Klimoski disappears with her dog. The dog returns to the café and starts barking at the cruisers. London follows the dog to the cathedral. She goes inside and finds the dog’s owner sitting in a pew. However, Mrs. Klimoski is dead.
Enter the local police who start an investigation. The ship’s departure is to be delayed until the case is solved. London’s boss says to her “solve the case”. Which she does with help of the dog and a sunflower.
This is a fun book with a clever murder/murderer woven into the fabric of the story. Fans of mysteries and travel will enjoy this story. I plan to read the other five in this series. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
GO! BUY! READ!
December 6, 2020
Delightful new series. London Rose is the main character. She has just started a position as the Social Director on a riverboat cruise. The first trip is on the Danube in Hungary.
The story provides a good background into how London ends up in this position and gives us a good understanding of London and her motivations. The mystery is interesting and adds to an already good story. The descriptions of the ship, the cities and the country are wonderful. The characters are well drawn and interesting. I felt like I was on the trip with all of the characters. I'm looking forward to the next book. I received a free copy of this book. The honest opinions in this review are my own.
The story provides a good background into how London ends up in this position and gives us a good understanding of London and her motivations. The mystery is interesting and adds to an already good story. The descriptions of the ship, the cities and the country are wonderful. The characters are well drawn and interesting. I felt like I was on the trip with all of the characters. I'm looking forward to the next book. I received a free copy of this book. The honest opinions in this review are my own.
June 13, 2021
Excellent cozy mystery!!!
November 29, 2020
I like cozy mysteries for quite a few reasons, one of them being that you don’t really expect a whole lot out of the story. It’s meant to be a quick read and usually it’s quite easy to figure out the “whodunnit”. If you happen to get more than that, even better. Some writers do these cozy mysteries very well and you pretty much know what to expect out of each book. That is not the case with this book by Blake Pierce.
I have only read one other series by Mr. Pierce, and I have not actually read the whole series yet. While I enjoyed it I wasn’t rushing to the next book. Murder (and Baklava) definitely have a waiting for the next book. London Rose is our main character. She seems to be at a major cross road in her life. So she does what every character does in this type of book... ignores the advice from the people who love her and takes off to do what she wants of course!
Ms. Rose accepts a new position with her struggling company on a new cruise ship. From the beginning, we have the jealous coworker, the cute coworker, the old friend coworker, and the “ not quite sure what to make of you” coworker. Mr. Pierce takes his time letting us get to know each character and definitely takes his time getting to the murder of the story. I was beginning to think there wouldn’t be one here. I think it worked though because by the time it occurred, we have gotten to know the murder victim and form an opinion about them and their possible enemies. I love that London Rose is a strong female lead. I hope she doesn’t go falling for some guy quickly and become all goo-goo eyed. I think there are many possibilities ahead with this series and it’s one I’m willing to stick around to see what happens next with Ms. Rose. 3.5 ⭐️’s rounded up.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review.
#BookSirens #BlakePierce
I have only read one other series by Mr. Pierce, and I have not actually read the whole series yet. While I enjoyed it I wasn’t rushing to the next book. Murder (and Baklava) definitely have a waiting for the next book. London Rose is our main character. She seems to be at a major cross road in her life. So she does what every character does in this type of book... ignores the advice from the people who love her and takes off to do what she wants of course!
Ms. Rose accepts a new position with her struggling company on a new cruise ship. From the beginning, we have the jealous coworker, the cute coworker, the old friend coworker, and the “ not quite sure what to make of you” coworker. Mr. Pierce takes his time letting us get to know each character and definitely takes his time getting to the murder of the story. I was beginning to think there wouldn’t be one here. I think it worked though because by the time it occurred, we have gotten to know the murder victim and form an opinion about them and their possible enemies. I love that London Rose is a strong female lead. I hope she doesn’t go falling for some guy quickly and become all goo-goo eyed. I think there are many possibilities ahead with this series and it’s one I’m willing to stick around to see what happens next with Ms. Rose. 3.5 ⭐️’s rounded up.
Thank you to BookSirens for providing an e-copy of this book for my voluntary review.
#BookSirens #BlakePierce
September 23, 2021
I liked the premise of this story, a tour guide in a cruise through Europe having adventures and solving a murder case.
I'm a tour guide myself, although at a much smaller scale, so I was curious to see how the author would develop this. I think it was fine, what I kind of expected so no surprises there.
As for the plot, it was simple but cozy as the genre indicates, the mystery wasn't too complicated and was solved in a very quick and unassuming manner.
I just wish the characters had been more developed, more well fleshed...the heroine is obviously the one we get to understand a little better but even then, not enough. I know there are more books to come so this might happen yet, however the writing style does seem to be very precise and without any extras... on one hand this is great, it makes for a quick read, but on the other is makes the story feel too robotic, with just the necessary to work but not to captivate.
I'm a tour guide myself, although at a much smaller scale, so I was curious to see how the author would develop this. I think it was fine, what I kind of expected so no surprises there.
As for the plot, it was simple but cozy as the genre indicates, the mystery wasn't too complicated and was solved in a very quick and unassuming manner.
I just wish the characters had been more developed, more well fleshed...the heroine is obviously the one we get to understand a little better but even then, not enough. I know there are more books to come so this might happen yet, however the writing style does seem to be very precise and without any extras... on one hand this is great, it makes for a quick read, but on the other is makes the story feel too robotic, with just the necessary to work but not to captivate.
April 6, 2021
Determined not to be stuck in a staid marriage, London Rose makes a slight career change and turns from American-based ocean cruise hostess to riverboat cruise director in Hungary.
I do enjoy a Blake Pierce book and this was no exception. London Rose is a unique personality - quite willing to head out into the world alone and look for her own adventures. Hungary is a new-t0-me location so it's very interesting to hear of the history and atmosphere of the area. The dog was such a card; for me, his antics absolutely made the book.
Looking forward to the next in this series.
I do enjoy a Blake Pierce book and this was no exception. London Rose is a unique personality - quite willing to head out into the world alone and look for her own adventures. Hungary is a new-t0-me location so it's very interesting to hear of the history and atmosphere of the area. The dog was such a card; for me, his antics absolutely made the book.
Looking forward to the next in this series.
May 9, 2021
Well done mystery that lets you travel vicariously and includes a smart dog!
February 22, 2021
Cute short read. I loved that I was not screaming at London for doing stupid things. She took chances on things and thought them out. Other than one tiny part...but it was her first try. I like how she interacted with her suspects.
March 22, 2021
Fun little mystery. Easy read, engaging characters, nice little details about European travel (that we are all missing in these COVID times) that make you want to go back. The perfect stress reducer.
January 28, 2022
Se non avessi letto da poco Il killer della rosa, probabilmente non avrei dato un'altra opportunità a Blake Pierce che, diciamocelo, non si capisce se sia un uomo, una donna o un consorzio di diversi autori, tanto sono diverse le storie e le ambientazioni delle sue serie.
In particolare, questo romanzo è così smaccatamente ingenuo da dare l'impressione di essere stato scritto da una ragazzina inesperta, con delle situazioni che mi hanno strappato delle risate folli, tanto erano inverosimili e stupide. London Rose (che cavolo di nome...), hostess di crociere oceaniche, viene mandata in Europa a fare da direttrice di una crociera fluviale, sulle rive del Danubio e delle sue ramificazioni. Lasciamo perdere i nomi delle cabine della nave, che rivelano le conoscenze musicali davvero limitate dell'autrice (no mi rifiuto di pensare che Pierce sia un uomo, e se lo è, questo è comunque un chick-lit di bassissima lega). Questo romanzo è ambientato in Ungheria (anche se il baklava è un dolce turco o mediorentale in genere, e già qui si vede quanto sia approssimativ* *l* nostr* car* Pierce), all'imbarco e nei primi giorni di crociera.
Un'odiosa signora anziana, che si imbarca con il suo cane e insiste a voler andare in giro sempre ingioiellata e impellicciata, malgrado la possibilità di essere rapinata, viene trovata morta a Gyor, nella cattedrale, dove si era ritirata a pregare.
La polizia sospetta un po' di tutti, ma soprattutto di London Rose (ben le sta), che vorrebbe sapere dall'ispettore come vanno le indagini, ma alla fine non capisce bene neanche come è morta la signora.
Intanto il suo capo dagli Stati Uniti pretende che lei si cali nei panni di Nancy Drew e scopra l'assassino perché non si fida degli ungheresi e vuole che la nave riprenda il viaggio.
E London Rose, da brava americana, si sente superiore alla polizia magiara e si mette a indagare davvero, partendo da cosa non si sa, visto che non sa neanche se c'è stata un'autopsia e quindi non sa come sia morta la signora... Ma lei ha l'arma segreta: il cane della vittima, che se potesse parlare... Ma se è stata avvelenata, il cane come diavolo farebbe a saperlo, viste le innumerevoli pillole che prendeva la sua padrona? Però, in effetti, il fiuto del cane (il personaggio più interessante del libro) non si sbaglia.
Ora voglio proprio leggere il secondo caso, ambientato in Austria, giusto per vedere quante altre castronerie riesce a propinarci Pierce questa volta. Ma credo che lo leggerò in inglese perché il livello di italiano della traduzione è pessimo (come se non bastasse il resto!)
In particolare, questo romanzo è così smaccatamente ingenuo da dare l'impressione di essere stato scritto da una ragazzina inesperta, con delle situazioni che mi hanno strappato delle risate folli, tanto erano inverosimili e stupide. London Rose (che cavolo di nome...), hostess di crociere oceaniche, viene mandata in Europa a fare da direttrice di una crociera fluviale, sulle rive del Danubio e delle sue ramificazioni. Lasciamo perdere i nomi delle cabine della nave, che rivelano le conoscenze musicali davvero limitate dell'autrice (no mi rifiuto di pensare che Pierce sia un uomo, e se lo è, questo è comunque un chick-lit di bassissima lega). Questo romanzo è ambientato in Ungheria (anche se il baklava è un dolce turco o mediorentale in genere, e già qui si vede quanto sia approssimativ* *l* nostr* car* Pierce), all'imbarco e nei primi giorni di crociera.
Un'odiosa signora anziana, che si imbarca con il suo cane e insiste a voler andare in giro sempre ingioiellata e impellicciata, malgrado la possibilità di essere rapinata, viene trovata morta a Gyor, nella cattedrale, dove si era ritirata a pregare.
La polizia sospetta un po' di tutti, ma soprattutto di London Rose (ben le sta), che vorrebbe sapere dall'ispettore come vanno le indagini, ma alla fine non capisce bene neanche come è morta la signora.
Intanto il suo capo dagli Stati Uniti pretende che lei si cali nei panni di Nancy Drew e scopra l'assassino perché non si fida degli ungheresi e vuole che la nave riprenda il viaggio.
E London Rose, da brava americana, si sente superiore alla polizia magiara e si mette a indagare davvero, partendo da cosa non si sa, visto che non sa neanche se c'è stata un'autopsia e quindi non sa come sia morta la signora... Ma lei ha l'arma segreta: il cane della vittima, che se potesse parlare... Ma se è stata avvelenata, il cane come diavolo farebbe a saperlo, viste le innumerevoli pillole che prendeva la sua padrona? Però, in effetti, il fiuto del cane (il personaggio più interessante del libro) non si sbaglia.
Ora voglio proprio leggere il secondo caso, ambientato in Austria, giusto per vedere quante altre castronerie riesce a propinarci Pierce questa volta. Ma credo che lo leggerò in inglese perché il livello di italiano della traduzione è pessimo (come se non bastasse il resto!)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 26, 2024
This is the first book in the European Voyage series by Blake Pierce, advertised as a cozy mystery.
My first thoughts after finishing were: "..um…ok, kind of kitschy, but didn’t hate it." What drew me in was the setting—Budapest- I absolutely love this city; it is a gorgeous city with a dark past, it has such a distinct personality. The description of the book seemed like it would be exactly what I was in mood for- to be whisked away to the Hungarian capital and immersed in her atmosphere and mystique. Pierce delivers on the cozy mystery, with a style that nods to Agatha Christie. The plot isn’t quite thrilling—think gentle action, highly-troped spread of characters, there aren’t mind blowing twists. That said, the murder solve revives the intrigue; unraveling the motivation behind the crime was unexpected and added a interest.
The novel follow London Rose on her change-of-pace-adventure after she dodges a marriage proposal from her stuffy, lame boyfriend. She can’t bare to commit to his ordinary life, so she ditches him and take a job abroad—honestly, good for her. She heads back to to Budapest where she did a semester abroad, and lands a gig as the social director for a cruise line. Everything is dreamy until one of her passengers- — turns up dead.
Suddenly, everyone’s a suspect—including London. To make matters worse, the investigation causes the most inconvenient delay in the cruise departure, irritating London’s boss. Naturally, it falls to London to save the day by solving the murder and getting the passengers back on track for their vacation.
It’s super corny and there are tons or eye roll moments, but Murder and Baklava does what it sets out to do: cozy mystery, light entertainment, dreamy Budapest vibes. Yet, I probably will read the entire series...
My first thoughts after finishing were: "..um…ok, kind of kitschy, but didn’t hate it." What drew me in was the setting—Budapest- I absolutely love this city; it is a gorgeous city with a dark past, it has such a distinct personality. The description of the book seemed like it would be exactly what I was in mood for- to be whisked away to the Hungarian capital and immersed in her atmosphere and mystique. Pierce delivers on the cozy mystery, with a style that nods to Agatha Christie. The plot isn’t quite thrilling—think gentle action, highly-troped spread of characters, there aren’t mind blowing twists. That said, the murder solve revives the intrigue; unraveling the motivation behind the crime was unexpected and added a interest.
The novel follow London Rose on her change-of-pace-adventure after she dodges a marriage proposal from her stuffy, lame boyfriend. She can’t bare to commit to his ordinary life, so she ditches him and take a job abroad—honestly, good for her. She heads back to to Budapest where she did a semester abroad, and lands a gig as the social director for a cruise line. Everything is dreamy until one of her passengers- — turns up dead.
Suddenly, everyone’s a suspect—including London. To make matters worse, the investigation causes the most inconvenient delay in the cruise departure, irritating London’s boss. Naturally, it falls to London to save the day by solving the murder and getting the passengers back on track for their vacation.
It’s super corny and there are tons or eye roll moments, but Murder and Baklava does what it sets out to do: cozy mystery, light entertainment, dreamy Budapest vibes. Yet, I probably will read the entire series...
November 17, 2020
What a delightful new character!
London Rose is quite something. I love how the story began giving me a glimpse into who London Rose is before jumping in to the mystery. And a great mystery it was! With all the red herrings, I was stumped until the end. I love the fact that London Rose is finally finding herself, especially the “spunk” that she didn’t realize she was blessed with coming to life.
I have long been a fan of Blake Pierce works. When I came across an opportunity to read an ARC for Blake Pierce, I was excited to accept the offer. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was the first book in a new series. I thoroughly enjoyed this fun whodunit. It was well-written, well-edited, and very entertaining. I appreciate the storytelling talent of Blake Pierce who is able to pen such a variety of series with each maintaining its own identity.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author via BookSirens. This gift did not affect my review of the book. This review is my voluntary and honest opinion.
London Rose is quite something. I love how the story began giving me a glimpse into who London Rose is before jumping in to the mystery. And a great mystery it was! With all the red herrings, I was stumped until the end. I love the fact that London Rose is finally finding herself, especially the “spunk” that she didn’t realize she was blessed with coming to life.
I have long been a fan of Blake Pierce works. When I came across an opportunity to read an ARC for Blake Pierce, I was excited to accept the offer. I was pleasantly surprised to find it was the first book in a new series. I thoroughly enjoyed this fun whodunit. It was well-written, well-edited, and very entertaining. I appreciate the storytelling talent of Blake Pierce who is able to pen such a variety of series with each maintaining its own identity.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author via BookSirens. This gift did not affect my review of the book. This review is my voluntary and honest opinion.
January 7, 2021
I have a lot of heavy-ish books on the burner and upcoming, so I decided to borrow this cozy mystery, especially because I've enjoyed Blake Pierce's other mystery books, and this is their first cozy mystery (I think). This hit the spot, especially because I learned a little bit more about Hungary. I loved imagining being able to travel on a small river boat, learning the history and culture of the stops along the way, and making friends with other people on the tour. The main character could be annoying at times, as I often find amateur sleuths in cozies, but I still liked her, and the fact that she has a bit of wanderlust and a desire to find a satisfying career and life. I actually guessed the killer, which is unusual, since I rarely try hard to solve whodunnits, generally preferring to enjoy the ride. I still had fun reading this, though, and I'm glad that there is another one for me to pick up.
August 6, 2021
Questa recensione vale per l'audiolibro.
Non sarà intimo ma è decisamente leggero. Anzi, proprio inconsistente. Più guida turistica che investigatrice la protagonista procede a tentoni nell'investigazione, in una ambientazione che fa ridere i polli per quanto è incredibile.
Si rifà, pesantemente, al giallo classico all'inglese, ma manca del fascino e del meccanismo ad orologeria che era la caratteristica di quel genere. E, per quanto sia abituata al poliziotto un po' tonto, qui si esagera.
Il cane è la cosa migliore del romanzo.
Nota a margine. Non ho particolarmente apprezzato la voce della lettrice, che trovo metallica, e nemmeno la traduzione, con tutti quei disse, disse, disse (dire avrà anche dei sinonimi, no?) ripetitivi e fastidiosi.
Non sarà intimo ma è decisamente leggero. Anzi, proprio inconsistente. Più guida turistica che investigatrice la protagonista procede a tentoni nell'investigazione, in una ambientazione che fa ridere i polli per quanto è incredibile.
Si rifà, pesantemente, al giallo classico all'inglese, ma manca del fascino e del meccanismo ad orologeria che era la caratteristica di quel genere. E, per quanto sia abituata al poliziotto un po' tonto, qui si esagera.
Il cane è la cosa migliore del romanzo.
Nota a margine. Non ho particolarmente apprezzato la voce della lettrice, che trovo metallica, e nemmeno la traduzione, con tutti quei disse, disse, disse (dire avrà anche dei sinonimi, no?) ripetitivi e fastidiosi.
November 5, 2023
Murder (and Baklava) by Blake Pierce is the first book in the European Voyage series. London Rose accepts a job as social director for a European cruise line aboard the new Nachtmusik but finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation when a wealthy passenger is found dead in a church. I love cruises and I enjoyedreading about Budapest and Gyor which sound like interesting places to visit. The investigation was rather strange but I liked getting to know London and the other staff on the cruise. An enjoyable travel cozy mystery.
September 9, 2023
I didn't think I'd write a review for this, but it was too bad not to.
To sum it up simply, this is the most clichéd, boring, and frankly dumb book I've read.
The characters were one-dimensional, cringy and dull. The romance was forced and as if the author had just copy and pasted an annoying trope into the book. The characters and plot fell flat and weren't remotely interesting, even when there was a swing at comedy, it was cliché and unfunny, and made me have second-hand embarrassment.
The descriptions of scenery was ok - I guess, but nothing remotely special or engaging, definitely not good enough to make me enjoy this read - every time I picked this up I was bored out of my mind, I tried to finish it, but it was too hard, I ended up dnf-ing
To sum it up simply, this is the most clichéd, boring, and frankly dumb book I've read.
The characters were one-dimensional, cringy and dull. The romance was forced and as if the author had just copy and pasted an annoying trope into the book. The characters and plot fell flat and weren't remotely interesting, even when there was a swing at comedy, it was cliché and unfunny, and made me have second-hand embarrassment.
The descriptions of scenery was ok - I guess, but nothing remotely special or engaging, definitely not good enough to make me enjoy this read - every time I picked this up I was bored out of my mind, I tried to finish it, but it was too hard, I ended up dnf-ing
March 31, 2021
I really enjoyed the clever ending...but it took rather a lot to get to that clever ending. The worst part was London Rose's boss telling her SHE had to solve the murder...REALLY??? Bosses can be quite demanding to be sure - but to tell a civilian that she had to solve the murder or she would lose her job was really quite ridiculous just on its face.
I did like the main character, London Rose - she was rather interesting. My favorite part was the dog. While it was nice enough a read for a lazy afternoon - it didn't make me want to read any of the sequels as this book was sort of banal.
I will say, the book was decently edited...only a couple of typos to be found. While I wasn't thrilled with the read, I will say that the author, Blake Pierce obviously has talent as a writer.
I did like the main character, London Rose - she was rather interesting. My favorite part was the dog. While it was nice enough a read for a lazy afternoon - it didn't make me want to read any of the sequels as this book was sort of banal.
I will say, the book was decently edited...only a couple of typos to be found. While I wasn't thrilled with the read, I will say that the author, Blake Pierce obviously has talent as a writer.
February 27, 2022
This was a fun whodunit, the European backdrop was extremely riveting to me. Multiple facts about places and history were added as well to bring the whole tour guide setup some credibility.
The author was able to create feelings of excitement and awe via London's character-while it carried me through this first installment, I am in no hurry to pick up the second piece. Mainly because all books of a series usually follow a similar pattern and for this series, following the same people just in different places spouting facts about new locations, will become monotonous to me pretty soon.
Maybe I'll read the next one after some break🤔
The author was able to create feelings of excitement and awe via London's character-while it carried me through this first installment, I am in no hurry to pick up the second piece. Mainly because all books of a series usually follow a similar pattern and for this series, following the same people just in different places spouting facts about new locations, will become monotonous to me pretty soon.
Maybe I'll read the next one after some break🤔
June 9, 2022
A lighthearted and frothy murder mystery to enjoy on a summer afternoon. London Rose, the protagonist turns down an eminently suitable marriage proposal and escapes to Europe with her new job as Social Director aboard a river cruise ship travelling down the Danube. But her new job with all its perks, brings with it more responsibilities, envious colleagues and cantankerous passengers. London, however, sets to with a will and diligently polishes up her scant knowledge of Hungarian as the cruise begins in Budapest. As if this challenge was not big enough, a murder takes place, and the police suspect someone aboard the ship, if not London, herself. With little faith in the local police, she decides to conduct her own investigation, without even knowing where to begin. As she stumbles from clue to clue, she uncovers a hidden talent within for observation and detection and begins to make progress. Add to this, a quirky set of passengers and crew and an adorable little Yorkshire terrier, and you have all the ingredients for an enjoyable read.
August 19, 2022
This was just a plain fun read for a sumer holiday Enjoyed it
June 30, 2024
4.75⭐️
November 2, 2021
Pretty good for the genre
Cozy mysteries are not my favorite genre, but I occasionally buy one when the storyline seems interesting. The fact that a primary location was Budapest, a place I love, was an added attraction. Having said that, I almost stopped reading after the beginning of the book when London Rose was dining with her boyfriend anticipating a proposal. Talk about uncomfortable…
I did enjoy Blake Pierce’s descriptions of the two Hungry locales, their history, food and traditions. Character descriptions and development were pretty good, and the storyline, while a tad incredulous, was interesting and kept me guessing. The fact that the owner of the river cruise line demanded that London Rose solve the mystery was quite unbelievable. On a positive note, I loved the dog Sir Reggie!
Cozy mysteries are not my favorite genre, but I occasionally buy one when the storyline seems interesting. The fact that a primary location was Budapest, a place I love, was an added attraction. Having said that, I almost stopped reading after the beginning of the book when London Rose was dining with her boyfriend anticipating a proposal. Talk about uncomfortable…
I did enjoy Blake Pierce’s descriptions of the two Hungry locales, their history, food and traditions. Character descriptions and development were pretty good, and the storyline, while a tad incredulous, was interesting and kept me guessing. The fact that the owner of the river cruise line demanded that London Rose solve the mystery was quite unbelievable. On a positive note, I loved the dog Sir Reggie!
June 23, 2023
Our protagonist London Rose is off to Europe. While in Budapest, there is a sudden death. Of course she is the the one to discover the body and is one of the suspects according to the Hungarian police.
There is touristy and historic detail of many Budapest landmarks that are factual - something I adore. I had fun looking up the perusing each one.
This is a cozy mystery. No gruesome or special scenes. It is a bit humorous when the policeman in charge calls London a MS Marple and a superior calls her Nancy Drew. She is indignant but continues to insinuate herself into the investigation to exonerate herself, save her job and simply because it is the right thing to do.
There is touristy and historic detail of many Budapest landmarks that are factual - something I adore. I had fun looking up the perusing each one.
This is a cozy mystery. No gruesome or special scenes. It is a bit humorous when the policeman in charge calls London a MS Marple and a superior calls her Nancy Drew. She is indignant but continues to insinuate herself into the investigation to exonerate herself, save her job and simply because it is the right thing to do.
December 5, 2020
This was worse than a Scooby Doo cartoon.
February 2, 2021
Utterly unoriginal. A classic whodunnit without a single compelling character or plot.
dnf
November 13, 2021When the heroine is going to say yes to a guy that it seems like she actively hates just because she’s like tired or something, I am out
January 10, 2022
Not for me. I found the characterisation shallow and the plot unbelievable.
April 20, 2022
Not really interesting
I thought the story was a little draggy. No real exciting parts. To much history and not enough pizzazz. Probably won't read anymore of cozy mysteries
I thought the story was a little draggy. No real exciting parts. To much history and not enough pizzazz. Probably won't read anymore of cozy mysteries
June 29, 2023
Don’t waste your time. So much repetition in chapters or sentences reworded and the slowest moving story ever. Even in audiobook form.
November 23, 2020
London Rose is in her early 30's where everyone thinks she should settle down and stop chasing dreams. She has worked on cruise ships and stays at her sister's home when not working. She has been in a year long relationship with a solid stable guy who pops the question of marriage in a methodical and business like manner. She feels she's on the verge of losing her job and is considering this proposal, because she isn't sure what else she should do. She takes a video call from the owner of her cruise line not knowing that he is actually offering her a job for a much bigger adventure and more responsibility, he needs to know right away because she has to leave the next day. She decides to take it and thus begins her adventure on the European seas. London encounters interesting characters which of course includes the typical uncouth 40 something married couple, the kind elderly couple and the bitter rich elderly woman who is rude to everyone she meets. The book took too long to build up to the point of the story, halfway through it reveals the death of someone that is suspected as a murder and London is given the responsibility by her employer to solve the murder or else. I found London to be judgy of others when they expressed thoughts on certain people when she herself had the same thoughts but didn't necessarily express them to others. She made herself sound above everyone else. I did enjoy a glimpse of the history of the tours of the cities they arrived at, but the lead up to the mystery and the finality of it felt a little forced. With the title including 'Baklava ' I thought it was going to be something to do with the sugary dessert but it only was placed at a few spots in the story that was not necessarily needed. Especially since she did eventually solve the murder, all her employer thanked her with was the dessert, even though he practically threatened her that he would be ruined if she didn't solve the case. Overall the book was ok for it being a first in a series, not sure how much I liked London Rose to continue on to the other books in the series. The rating kf 3 was given for the detailed research the author did in the cities as well as her detailed descriptions, London will hopefully grow in the next books. Thank you @BookSirens for giving me the opportunity to read this book and give my honest opinion.
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