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Myrtle Hardcastle Mysteries #3
Cold-Blooded Myrtle
Finalist for the 2022 Edgar Allan Poe Award, the Agatha Christie Award, and the Anthony Boucher Award!
Myrtle Hardcastle—twelve-year-old Young Lady of Quality and Victorian amateur detective—is back on the case, solving a string of bizarre murders in her hometown of Swinburne and picking up right where she left off in Premeditated Myrtle and How to Get Away with Myrtle.
When the proprietor of Leighton’s Mercantile is found dead on the morning his annual Christmas shop display is to be unveiled, it’s clear a killer had revenge in mind. But who would want to kill the local dry-goods merchant? Perhaps someone who remembers the mysterious scandal that destroyed his career as a professor and archaeologist. When the killer strikes again, each time manipulating the figures in the display to foretell the crime, Myrtle finds herself racing to uncover the long-buried facts of a cold case—and the motivations of a modern murderer.
Myrtle Hardcastle—twelve-year-old Young Lady of Quality and Victorian amateur detective—is back on the case, solving a string of bizarre murders in her hometown of Swinburne and picking up right where she left off in Premeditated Myrtle and How to Get Away with Myrtle.
When the proprietor of Leighton’s Mercantile is found dead on the morning his annual Christmas shop display is to be unveiled, it’s clear a killer had revenge in mind. But who would want to kill the local dry-goods merchant? Perhaps someone who remembers the mysterious scandal that destroyed his career as a professor and archaeologist. When the killer strikes again, each time manipulating the figures in the display to foretell the crime, Myrtle finds herself racing to uncover the long-buried facts of a cold case—and the motivations of a modern murderer.
360 pages, Hardcover
First published October 5, 2021
39 people are currently reading
2462 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth C. Bunce
14 books861 followersElizabeth C. Bunce is the Edgar Award-winning author of the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series, beginning with Premeditated Myrtle, an Edgar Allan Poe "Edgar" Award Winner, a Society of Midland Authors Honoree, a Library of Congress 2021 Book Festival Selection, Amazon Top 20 Children's Book of the Year, Indie Next Pick, and finalist for both the Agatha Award and Anthony Award. Her series continues in How to Get Away with Myrtle (a #1 Amazon New Release) and Cold-Blooded Myrtle, also an Edgar Award finalist, an Agatha Award finalist, and Anthony Award finalist, as well as a Kirkus Top 10 Best Book of the Year, Indie Next Pick, a Silver Falchion Award finalist, and
Wall Street Journal
holiday guide pick. The series' fourth book, In Myrtle Peril, has garnered Elizabeth's third Anthony Award nomination and third Agatha Award nomination, and in 2023 look for the fifth book in the series, Myrtle, Means, & Opportunity! Her first novel, A Curse Dark as Gold, won the inaugural William C. Morris Award for a young adult debut novel and was named a Smithsonian Notable Book and an Amelia Bloomer Project selection. Her high fantasy Thief Errant series includes the novels StarCrossed, A Chicago Public Library Best of the Best book, and Liar's Moon, one of Kirkus Blog's Favorite YA Novels of 2011. StarCrossed and A Curse Dark as Gold have appeared on Oprah's Kids Reading List. Premeditated Myrtle was named both a Best Children's/YAA BookPage Best Book and to A Mighty Girl's Books of the Year. Her novels have been named to the ALA's Best Fiction for Young Adults list, and she is a four-time Kansas Notable Book winner. An accomplished needlewoman and historical costumer, Elizabeth lives in the Midwest with her husband, her cats, and a boggart who steals books.
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September 24, 2021
It is Christmas time in Swinborne. Myrtle and Miss Judson join in the festivities as the local store is about to unveil their display for the season. The curtain goes up to show a detailed miniature of the Schofield College Campanile with an olive and a well painted black in the diorama. The store proprietor, Mr. Leighton, is found dead minutes later with a note next to him. The note is identical to that found next to Socrates: "Crito, we owe a cock to Asclepius. Please, don't forget to pay the debt."
We once again see Myrtle's Exceptional Forbearance on display in her determination to uncover the mystery of a past tragedy and its connection to the present. Peony Another clever and engaging episode in Myrtle's adventures. The Campanile in the story took me back to my college days at Iowa State University. I may have kissed a boy or two as midnight was chiming on that campus centerpiece. In her author's notes, Elizabeth C. Bunce reveals that she grew up in Ames, Iowa, where ISU is located and that very same Campanile inspired her to include one in this book. So glad we can look forward to following more of Myrtle's adventures in In Myrtle Peril.
Thank you to Alonquin and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
We once again see Myrtle's Exceptional Forbearance on display in her determination to uncover the mystery of a past tragedy and its connection to the present. Peony Another clever and engaging episode in Myrtle's adventures. The Campanile in the story took me back to my college days at Iowa State University. I may have kissed a boy or two as midnight was chiming on that campus centerpiece. In her author's notes, Elizabeth C. Bunce reveals that she grew up in Ames, Iowa, where ISU is located and that very same Campanile inspired her to include one in this book. So glad we can look forward to following more of Myrtle's adventures in In Myrtle Peril.
Thank you to Alonquin and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
January 5, 2025
3.5 stars, personally.
Goodness, Myrtle really is one of a kind. Bless her father and Miss Judson because Myrtle impresses me and yet also intimidates me with her knowledge on certain topics!
I did start to see the ending coming into picture as the book drew to a close, but I was still a bit shocked by some things that happened. I must say (Dear Reader, please hear that phrase with a British accent as I intended), that this is a charming series despite having so much to do with murder. Perhaps it’s the audiobooks I’ve been listening to, but I’ve really been enjoying them. I wouldn’t give this series to young readers—definitely not middle-grade readers as that feels unsettling to give books featuring murder to twelve and under—but perhaps thirteen and older if the girl is interested in criminal justice and is well learned.
Main Content-
A few Scriptures are written out (and give clues to the mystery); Someone says a prayer over a dead body (to deliver the person “out the the miseries of this world”. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.” (this comes from a usually very snobby young girl)); Being set at Christmas time, there’s mentions of religious Christmas carols, Jesus’ birth (including notes and comments from Myrtle about His birth not actually being in December, but that the Bible, frustratingly did not specify when it was); Two comments about God resting a person’s soul & another person saying that something is the “God’s honest truth”; Myrtle prays to her late mom once for something to work and earlier thought about “whenever she was”.
Mentions of a Divinity (religion) lecturer at the college (he’s become a cranky grump and is slightly scary to Myrtle which makes her think that a girl could have runaway from home to get away from the terrifying household); A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A couple mentions of Miss Judson being the daughter of missionaries; A mention of Biblical torture (stoning); A mention of a possible Christmas card showing the Holy Land and the Magi (but Myrtle doesn’t this it is representing this as there’s only two of them); A mention of monks; A mention of someone crossing herself.
A note from Myrtle says that the season of Advent is a time to prepare for the arrival of Christmas, but a less happy observation during this time is reflection upon the “Four Last Things: Death, Judgement, Heaven, and Hell.”; A Reverend’s bird screeches “Iniquity! The Sinners shall burn!”; A note about Wales’s Mari Lwyd which features a skeletal horse; Myrtle’s friend and her family are Hindu, but they decorate for Christmas and give gifts to friends; A mention of Italian neighbors having an ancient goddess (Strenia).
Having to do with a pagan society & ritual to join the group, there’s plenty of mentions about it and the Romans it is connected to (including a mention of blood oaths, Saturnalian, and a reverend being very upset about pagan nonsense and says that rituals are holy things, & those who were in the society going on to greater things); Mentions of pagan gods/creatures (like the Minotaur); A few mentions of ghosts (mostly teasing and not believed in); A couple mentions of crystal balls (one which Myrtle and Miss Judson attempted to rig for a meteorological study); A couple mentions of a place being like a shrine; A mention of a song sounding like the player is summoning a ghost or exorcising one; A mention of having something to be like a talisman.
Myrtle finds dead and murdered bodies (up to a few sentences on their appearance and how it happened, but not gruesome as she looks at them with a police eye); There is a moment where Myrtle thinks about the weight on her about the murders; All about & many, many mentions of murder, the killer, a missing young woman (who had reportedly fallen to her death from a tall tower, though no body was found), & how people were murdered (including poison and suicide); Mentions of break-ins, vandals, crimes, blackmail, & arrests.
Myrtle’s father talks to her about being concerned how she is getting involved with the murders and makes her promise to not be involved (which she agrees and mostly sticks to, but does feel guilt when she wriggles around the loophole of what her father meant); Myrtle does lie a few times to gather information about the cases (including to a police investigator); Grief on-page from a widow; Myrtle thinks about her mother, her being sick with cancer and how hard it was, & missing knowing her.
Miss Judson tried (unsuccessfully) to threaten Myrtle with Pere Fouettard (Father Whipper) who supposedly trails alongside St. Nicholas to threat naughty children and Miss Judson gave up when she realized that Myrtle was more interested in “the scientific details of how the wicked French butcher had killed and pickled three boys in brine, who were later resuscitated by the saintly Turkish bishop” (a footnote adds that Miss Judson who is a devout daughter of missionaries, maintains that the event was miraculous and “therefore beyond scientific scrutiny”); A sister is bitter/upset about her sister causing trouble for the family.
A few mentions of alcohol (including Miss Judson allowing Myrtle to have eggnog as she deemed it Medicinally Approproate); A couple mentions of asylums & two troublesome children sending their governess to one (teasing); A couple mentions of someone recommending a criminal to a psychiatric commitment; A mention of mock beheadings in the 1500s.
Some comments and mentions about prejudice towards women and women learning (probably around ten in total, including a woman calling her brother a misogynist for his comments); A few mentions of prejudice towards an Indian man.
Some eye rolling & Sarcasm; God’s name is taken in vain twice (one character says “Lordy” when troubled and Mrtyle’s father exclaimed “Oh, my god!” once); A few mentions of adults cussing (not written); Myrtle thinks of and says in her mind several Inappropriate Words she knows when something happens (twice, none are written out); “What the devil” is exclaimed once and “D-----est thing” is said (written as so, the audiobook said “darnedest thing”; Myrtle calls a girl a cow (for being stubborn).
Myrtle & her father have a discussion about all the mistletoe that’s all over their house (due to Myrtle’s doing in hopes of her father and Miss Judson meeting under a bushel) and her father comments that he can’t go around kissing women in his employ;
A few mentions of scantily clad figure representing Cleopatra; A couple mentions of a married woman possibly having a “gentleman friend” (not confirmed, a suggestion for motive).
(See my content reviews of the other books in this series:
Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, Book 4, and
Book 5)
Goodness, Myrtle really is one of a kind. Bless her father and Miss Judson because Myrtle impresses me and yet also intimidates me with her knowledge on certain topics!
I did start to see the ending coming into picture as the book drew to a close, but I was still a bit shocked by some things that happened. I must say (Dear Reader, please hear that phrase with a British accent as I intended), that this is a charming series despite having so much to do with murder. Perhaps it’s the audiobooks I’ve been listening to, but I’ve really been enjoying them. I wouldn’t give this series to young readers—definitely not middle-grade readers as that feels unsettling to give books featuring murder to twelve and under—but perhaps thirteen and older if the girl is interested in criminal justice and is well learned.
Main Content-
A few Scriptures are written out (and give clues to the mystery); Someone says a prayer over a dead body (to deliver the person “out the the miseries of this world”. Through Jesus Christ, our Lord, amen.” (this comes from a usually very snobby young girl)); Being set at Christmas time, there’s mentions of religious Christmas carols, Jesus’ birth (including notes and comments from Myrtle about His birth not actually being in December, but that the Bible, frustratingly did not specify when it was); Two comments about God resting a person’s soul & another person saying that something is the “God’s honest truth”; Myrtle prays to her late mom once for something to work and earlier thought about “whenever she was”.
Mentions of a Divinity (religion) lecturer at the college (he’s become a cranky grump and is slightly scary to Myrtle which makes her think that a girl could have runaway from home to get away from the terrifying household); A few mentions of Bibles & Bible reading; A couple mentions of Miss Judson being the daughter of missionaries; A mention of Biblical torture (stoning); A mention of a possible Christmas card showing the Holy Land and the Magi (but Myrtle doesn’t this it is representing this as there’s only two of them); A mention of monks; A mention of someone crossing herself.
A note from Myrtle says that the season of Advent is a time to prepare for the arrival of Christmas, but a less happy observation during this time is reflection upon the “Four Last Things: Death, Judgement, Heaven, and Hell.”; A Reverend’s bird screeches “Iniquity! The Sinners shall burn!”; A note about Wales’s Mari Lwyd which features a skeletal horse; Myrtle’s friend and her family are Hindu, but they decorate for Christmas and give gifts to friends; A mention of Italian neighbors having an ancient goddess (Strenia).
Having to do with a pagan society & ritual to join the group, there’s plenty of mentions about it and the Romans it is connected to (including a mention of blood oaths, Saturnalian, and a reverend being very upset about pagan nonsense and says that rituals are holy things, & those who were in the society going on to greater things); Mentions of pagan gods/creatures (like the Minotaur); A few mentions of ghosts (mostly teasing and not believed in); A couple mentions of crystal balls (one which Myrtle and Miss Judson attempted to rig for a meteorological study); A couple mentions of a place being like a shrine; A mention of a song sounding like the player is summoning a ghost or exorcising one; A mention of having something to be like a talisman.
Myrtle finds dead and murdered bodies (up to a few sentences on their appearance and how it happened, but not gruesome as she looks at them with a police eye); There is a moment where Myrtle thinks about the weight on her about the murders; All about & many, many mentions of murder, the killer, a missing young woman (who had reportedly fallen to her death from a tall tower, though no body was found), & how people were murdered (including poison and suicide); Mentions of break-ins, vandals, crimes, blackmail, & arrests.
Myrtle’s father talks to her about being concerned how she is getting involved with the murders and makes her promise to not be involved (which she agrees and mostly sticks to, but does feel guilt when she wriggles around the loophole of what her father meant); Myrtle does lie a few times to gather information about the cases (including to a police investigator); Grief on-page from a widow; Myrtle thinks about her mother, her being sick with cancer and how hard it was, & missing knowing her.
Miss Judson tried (unsuccessfully) to threaten Myrtle with Pere Fouettard (Father Whipper) who supposedly trails alongside St. Nicholas to threat naughty children and Miss Judson gave up when she realized that Myrtle was more interested in “the scientific details of how the wicked French butcher had killed and pickled three boys in brine, who were later resuscitated by the saintly Turkish bishop” (a footnote adds that Miss Judson who is a devout daughter of missionaries, maintains that the event was miraculous and “therefore beyond scientific scrutiny”); A sister is bitter/upset about her sister causing trouble for the family.
A few mentions of alcohol (including Miss Judson allowing Myrtle to have eggnog as she deemed it Medicinally Approproate); A couple mentions of asylums & two troublesome children sending their governess to one (teasing); A couple mentions of someone recommending a criminal to a psychiatric commitment; A mention of mock beheadings in the 1500s.
Some comments and mentions about prejudice towards women and women learning (probably around ten in total, including a woman calling her brother a misogynist for his comments); A few mentions of prejudice towards an Indian man.
Some eye rolling & Sarcasm; God’s name is taken in vain twice (one character says “Lordy” when troubled and Mrtyle’s father exclaimed “Oh, my god!” once); A few mentions of adults cussing (not written); Myrtle thinks of and says in her mind several Inappropriate Words she knows when something happens (twice, none are written out); “What the devil” is exclaimed once and “D-----est thing” is said (written as so, the audiobook said “darnedest thing”; Myrtle calls a girl a cow (for being stubborn).
Myrtle & her father have a discussion about all the mistletoe that’s all over their house (due to Myrtle’s doing in hopes of her father and Miss Judson meeting under a bushel) and her father comments that he can’t go around kissing women in his employ;
A few mentions of scantily clad figure representing Cleopatra; A couple mentions of a married woman possibly having a “gentleman friend” (not confirmed, a suggestion for motive).
(See my content reviews of the other books in this series:
Book 1, Book 2, Book 3, Book 4, and
Book 5)
January 11, 2022
Man I LOVE THIS SERIES! They literally just get better & better, while keeping all the traits that I love at the same time. This has all the historical Victorian feeling vibes I love, & a romp of a good time trying to figure how the whodunnit, whitty banter, comical footnotes, a cat who thinks very highly of themselves & is also part detective, a governess Miss Judson who is Holmes to Myrtle’s Sherlock, & a fantastic list of suspects & more. It’s told from Myrtle’s POV, & she even talks to us occasionally by saying “Dear Reader”. Love. Myrtle is just as smart, funny, tenacious, brave, charming, & a little morbid lol as ever. She is the definition of my perfect version of a female junior sleuth. The way she says her thoughts, & the investigation banter between her & Miss Judson is perfection. This is a perfect example of when I say I love the dialogue in certain detective style MGs. So great. I loved the plot for this 3rd book, & the direction it took, & learning more about someone from Myrtle’s life. The suspense builds at a perfect pace(along with victims!) through the story as do the clues sprinkled throughout. It was great to see some favorite characters, & I will never not love the nickname Stephen. lol Peony, along with Myrtle herself, have my whole heart. I actually even enjoyed her dad even more in this one. He’s always great, but I especially loved him in this. Highly recommend this whole series, & I’m so happy there is more to come. Another STUNNING cover by the amazing Brett Helquist too!💜
July 6, 2021
Myrtle is preparing for Christmas, when the proprietor of a mercantile shop is murdered and the culprit rearranges the display window to predict the next murder. Myrtle has to investigate the cold-case of a young woman who disappeared from the local college years before, in order to solve the string of murders that are threatening to ruin everyone's holiday.
I cannot describe how much I loved this third book in the Myrtle series!
One of the things that made me fall in love with this book is the incredible character development. I love how the main characters change their minds, discover new information, grow in their personalities and abilities, and suddenly realize that their relationships with other characters can be different.
I was fully invested in the character growth and the story from the very first page. The writing drew me in, and emotionally hooked me into the lives of the characters. Myrtle herself is a fantastic main heroine. She is energetic and emotional and incredibly intelligent. I absolutely adored her strong relationship with Miss Judson, and her evolving relationship with her Aunt Helena.
I was massively curious about every clue. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter and the next! I wanted to see how all the disparate clues could possibly come together to a rational conclusion. I was so pleased with the complexity of the mystery, and yet it all made sense in the end with everything explained and every loose end wrapped neatly in a bow. At one point, I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, but I was completely wrong! I was genuinely surprised at the ending.
The secondary characters are wonderful as well, with the townspeople, policemen, newspaper journalists, and Myrtle's friends all playing their part. The setting of the beach, the hotel, the pier, and the ships all give a creepy or homey atmosphere to the story that adds so much to the action of each scene.
One of the things I really loved was how the history of the town was a big part of unraveling the murder mystery. Myrtle had to find out about the past in order to understand what was happening in the present, and it gave the story so much depth. Brilliant writing!
Another nice feature of this book is the gorgeous cover art, which gives little clues to the contents of the book with the olives and the Campanile in the background. All these things feature strongly in the plot, and I love how the artwork incorporates them.
I have to mention how humorous the writing is! There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny aside comments to the reader, a jovial and charming unemployed solicitor, and an irrepressible lady journalist. It’s hilarious and wonderful!
I wish I could give this book 10 stars, and I look forward with extreme eagerness for the next books in the series!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
I cannot describe how much I loved this third book in the Myrtle series!
One of the things that made me fall in love with this book is the incredible character development. I love how the main characters change their minds, discover new information, grow in their personalities and abilities, and suddenly realize that their relationships with other characters can be different.
I was fully invested in the character growth and the story from the very first page. The writing drew me in, and emotionally hooked me into the lives of the characters. Myrtle herself is a fantastic main heroine. She is energetic and emotional and incredibly intelligent. I absolutely adored her strong relationship with Miss Judson, and her evolving relationship with her Aunt Helena.
I was massively curious about every clue. I couldn't wait to read the next chapter and the next! I wanted to see how all the disparate clues could possibly come together to a rational conclusion. I was so pleased with the complexity of the mystery, and yet it all made sense in the end with everything explained and every loose end wrapped neatly in a bow. At one point, I thought that I had figured out who the murderer was, but I was completely wrong! I was genuinely surprised at the ending.
The secondary characters are wonderful as well, with the townspeople, policemen, newspaper journalists, and Myrtle's friends all playing their part. The setting of the beach, the hotel, the pier, and the ships all give a creepy or homey atmosphere to the story that adds so much to the action of each scene.
One of the things I really loved was how the history of the town was a big part of unraveling the murder mystery. Myrtle had to find out about the past in order to understand what was happening in the present, and it gave the story so much depth. Brilliant writing!
Another nice feature of this book is the gorgeous cover art, which gives little clues to the contents of the book with the olives and the Campanile in the background. All these things feature strongly in the plot, and I love how the artwork incorporates them.
I have to mention how humorous the writing is! There is a lot of witty dialogue, funny aside comments to the reader, a jovial and charming unemployed solicitor, and an irrepressible lady journalist. It’s hilarious and wonderful!
I wish I could give this book 10 stars, and I look forward with extreme eagerness for the next books in the series!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts and are not influenced by anyone.
August 13, 2021
Elizabeth C. Bunce has done it again!
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this lovely book. I'd like to thank Elizabeth C. Bunce for bringing Myrtle into existence because clever Victorian girls solving crimes and committing capers is a niche genre I never knew I needed in my life.
I think of all the books in the series so far, this is my favorite. We learn more about Myrtle's mother, and we revisit with some of the characters from prior books, which even, when brief, is a delight. We meet some new ones too whom I hope show up in future installments.
I appreciate the research Bunce did to bring this book to life, the little nods to historical occurrences tickle my fancy.
I know if I were a little girl, I would have loved reading about Myrtle's adventures, and I'd be looking for mysteries to solve. Of course, hopefully I wouldn't come across a murder.
I'd like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC of this lovely book. I'd like to thank Elizabeth C. Bunce for bringing Myrtle into existence because clever Victorian girls solving crimes and committing capers is a niche genre I never knew I needed in my life.
I think of all the books in the series so far, this is my favorite. We learn more about Myrtle's mother, and we revisit with some of the characters from prior books, which even, when brief, is a delight. We meet some new ones too whom I hope show up in future installments.
I appreciate the research Bunce did to bring this book to life, the little nods to historical occurrences tickle my fancy.
I know if I were a little girl, I would have loved reading about Myrtle's adventures, and I'd be looking for mysteries to solve. Of course, hopefully I wouldn't come across a murder.
October 24, 2021
This was so much fun. All the old characters are back and there is one new character who I hope we get to see a lot more of! The mystery is clever and intricate too. I like it when the mystery has several parts to it. This was an investigation of a cold case but also recent murders with some other secrets thrown in.
December 13, 2021
It's Christmas time and 12-year-old Myrtle Hardcastle, her governess Miss Judson and the entire village of Swinbourne are eager to see Mr. Leighton's latest diaroma in the window of Leighton’s Mercantile. When the curtain is pulled back it reveals the entire village, including nearby Schofield College's Campanille belltower with a crowd of people gathered round. There's also a strange turned over black well and a bunch of olives. How odd! Whatever could it mean? Whatever the meaning, it makes Mrs. Munjal pull Caroline's friend away. Before Mr. Leighton can explain, his wife finds him sitting dead in his chair in the back of the shop with a mysterious note written in Latin. Myrtle is Suspicious but the physician declares the man dead of natural causes. Not so fast, claims Dr. Munjal, arriving on the scene. When Myrtle's father recognizes the misquote from Mr. Leighton's note, Myrtle learns her mother was part of a secret society in college, one that was tied to the disappearnce of a student 20 years ago when Mr. Leighton was a professor. The incident ruined his career. Could it now have come back to haunt him to ruin his wife? Myrtle is worried her mother was somehow involved in the incident. Another day, another strange display predicts a second murder. It seems like someone is trying to pick off the survivors of the mysterious secret society one by one. While she promises her father not to investigate Mr. Leighton's murder, she never promises not to look into the mysterious disappearence of Olive Blackwell and Mum's connection. Even Miss Judson seems keen on solving both mysteries. Can Myrtle keep her promise to her father? Will she figure out what happened to Olive and whether Mum was involved?
This is a cracking good story! I couldn't put it down! Mystery wise it's the best one yet. I did figure out it but not until late in the story when the major clue was dropped. In the previous two books it was more obvious, especially the first one. I guessed one part of the past mystery early on before Myrtle discovered the evidence. That much was obvious but I couldn't put all the pieces together. There are still questions that can never be answered. I'm knocing off a star for the lackluster ending.
Myrtle is too funny. Unintentionally. She takes herself seriously and is eager to be a junior Sherlock Holmes. (She's eager to get her hands on a copy of The Strand featuring the latest Sherlock Holmes adventure, which we now know was the last story of Myrtle's childhood before The Hound of the Baskervilles). Myrtle's Observations on Christmas are funny and interesting and her footnotes are a hoot. I love the footnotes. Even I, an adult reader, former English major and History major, learned some new things. Kudos to Myrtle for teaching me something. I liked seeing Myrtle grow and becoming closer to her father. She's always idolized him and loves him, but she feels he is a bit strict about the rules for a Young Lady of Quality. He, of course, loves her and doesn't want to see her hurt or worse. He couldn't bear to lose Myrtle on top of losing his wife. It was nice to see him treat Myrtle with the respect her precocity deserves. It was fun to see them discuss the investigation together and even more fun to see Father unwind and become more youthful because it's Christmas. Myrtle makes a big mistake in her investigation. Any adult sleuth would know to She's a child so I guess she's bound to make mistakes and it will make her more relatable for her fellow tweens but I thought it was uncharacteristic of Miss Judson not to make Myrtle slow down and do more research before accusing someone of murder.
I especially like how the author includes diversity. There are a couple of brown-skinned characters and they each have a different shade of brown skin. The characters of color fit right into the story and don't feel shoehorned in for the sake of having diversity. Miss Judson is a delight. Not your average governess, I think she's Irrepressible herself. She's the one encouraging Myrtle to investigate and poking her nose in. In this novel we see Miss Judson's tough side come out. She has a temper and will stand her ground and fight. Of course this is upsetting for young Myrtle who loves her governess as a mother-figure. I enjoyed watching Miss Judson become involved in the investigating. She seemed to come alive and enjoy herself while pretending to be useful and helpful. Caroline Munjal, Myrtle's best friend, is lively and fun usually but here she's a little more subdued. Does she know something Myrtle doesn't? Her loyalty is to her father, of course, the kindly Dr. Munjal, who was at Schofield College the same time as Myrtle's mum and Olive Blackwell. He knew Professor Leighton too. What does HE know about the murder? His wife seems to know more about the incident with Olive Blackwell than she's telling Caroline. Of course they're not connected to any wrongdoing. As they point out, they must be extra careful and be above reproach because when a scapegoat is needed, the Indian Munjals will be the first to be sacrificed. (It's true, it happened, feel guilty because you should.)
Aunt Helena turned out to be a huge surprise. I think she is a closet Irrepressible. I think she never had the freedom and opportunities Myrtle has and being forced to fit a mold has made her cranky and mean. That doesn't excuse her poor taste in Christmas ornaments though but it makes her more three-dimensional than the usual wicked, strict older relative. She's growing and changing too and I hope Myrtle spends more time with Aunt Helena in the future and rubs off on the older lady. Mr. Blankney is back! I love how he calls Myrtle "Stephen." It's a private joke and not sexist. He's so good humored and eager to join in Myrtle's investigation. It's a good thing he's out of a job as a law clerk but has some knowledge of the law so he can be of help in varied ways.
The Mayor, father of Myrtle's nemesis LaRue Spence Hastings, is pretty awful. He's arrogant most of the time. The power and prestige of his largely ceremonial position has gone to his head. However, I think he seems scared of something and knows a lot more about the 20-year-old mystery and perhaps the present murder than he's willing to let people know about. Peony doesn't get to be a big part of the mystery this time. She is still disapproving, offering her opinion "no" to everything she doesn't like and demanding dinner- and extra dinner to make up for missed tea! She kind of makes me like cats. LaRue Hastings ends up a part of the investigating team. Go figure! She's still a mean girl and incredibly selfish but it's interesting to see how she actually lacks Myrtle's self-confidence and just isn't strong. She may be snotty and rude but she's a little more empathetic here.
There are several new characters tied to both the mysterious disappearence of Olive Blackwell and the present day murders. Mr. (former Professor Leighton) seems like a nice man. He's an artist and passionate about his displays of mini figures. Everyone looks forward to seeing them each Christmas and he works hard to please. His obsession with ancient Rome and archeology may be the key to his murder. I think he was punished enough losing his job, staying in the village and becoming a shopkeeper. I think his death is a real tragedy and undeserved no matter what he may have done. Unless he did something heinous to Olive. He doesn't seem the type but he was accused of corrupting the morals of the youth. His devoted wife prefers the simple life of a humble shopkeeper. She seems shocked by his death but she did have the opportunity. Did she know he was dead when she came to the shop that morning? She claims he stayed in the shop all night to make sure the display was perfect. Did anyone else know that? How would they gain access to the shop? What was his connection to Olive Blackwell? Did he leave behind an archive of papers. (Ooh yes please! More archival research!)
Jemima Bell, Myrtle's Mum, is becoming more of a fully fleshed character. She sounds wonderful! Not only was she smart but also kind and loving. She gave Myrtle the best possible childhood and left behind some sweet memories, some tangible and others just whisps in the back of Myrtle's mind. Her death sounds pretty horrid and my heart breaks for Myrtle. I can see why she misses Mum and why Father misses her too. She balanced out his serious demeanor and helped him lighten up. I don't think Mum seems like the type to have pushed a girl to her death. She's too nice and too intelligent to be a part of anything sordid but it sure sounds like she was involved and perhaps her cancer wasn't actually a tumor or perhaps something CAUSED the cancer to keep her from revealing secrets?
Leah, the organist of the Campanile, seems very nice. She even allows Myrtle to come up and see the inner workings and play the chimes with her. Her knowledge of Olive's disappearance is limited, as Leah was only a small girl 20 years ago. She seems intelligent and curious too. I think Leah is going to be Myrtle's newest ally. Imogene Shelley, the tabloid newspaper reporter, is also an Irrepressible, but not in a good way. She enjoys causing mischief and stirring the pot. While I appreciate a strong female who doesn't allow herself to be limited by societal expectations and social norms, I don't like her. She seems to be using Myrtle to sell papers and to help forward her own investigation. There's no one who can control her at all and that sounds dangerous. She seems overly interested in Olive Blackwell and in Mr. Leighton's murder. She's been on the spot and known specific details not even Myrtle knows. Could she be the murderer? I'm torn in my feelings about that. A much better choice for murderer is Miss Nora Carmichael, one of the gang Mum hung out with in college. She knew Olive Blackwell, Professor Leighton and everything that happened that fateful night. In spite of being a world famous traveler and archeologist (in Egypt! In 1893!) she is not a pleasant person. I would love to see her when Amelia Peabody shows up in Egypt! Something tells me Amelia would not appreciate Nora's more flamboyant style and how Nora seems to enjoy the fame and fortune. Professor Radcliffe Emerson she is NOT! (Meet them in Crocodile on the Sandbank) Nora's late brother was also part of the secret society. Does that give Nora extra insider knowledge of what happened to Olive? It sure seems like it to me. I'd rather have her be the murderer and get locked away than be the victim.
The surving Blackwells are weird and creepy. Mr. Blackwell was some kind of evangelical minister and Damaris seems to be affected or afflicted by his strict viewpoints. I wonder of Olive faked her death and ran away to get away with her disapproving family? That's what Myrtle's Mum hoped and I do too. I suspect Damaris may be the murderer, blaming Mr. Leighton for her family's downfall. She's left alone with her crazy invalid father, left to listen to him day in and day out, to take care of him. She's left to dwell on her mother's death and how Olive's disappearance affected the family. I can certainly see that causing someone to lose their mind and push them to commit murder. That combined with her severe religious beliefs.
This is a thrilling adventure for young and old. Parents will want to steal it from their kids and read it more quickly! I can't wait for In Myrtle Peril!
This is a cracking good story! I couldn't put it down! Mystery wise it's the best one yet. I did figure out it but not until late in the story when the major clue was dropped. In the previous two books it was more obvious, especially the first one. I guessed one part of the past mystery early on before Myrtle discovered the evidence. That much was obvious but I couldn't put all the pieces together. There are still questions that can never be answered. I'm knocing off a star for the lackluster ending.
Myrtle is too funny. Unintentionally. She takes herself seriously and is eager to be a junior Sherlock Holmes. (She's eager to get her hands on a copy of The Strand featuring the latest Sherlock Holmes adventure, which we now know was the last story of Myrtle's childhood before The Hound of the Baskervilles). Myrtle's Observations on Christmas are funny and interesting and her footnotes are a hoot. I love the footnotes. Even I, an adult reader, former English major and History major, learned some new things. Kudos to Myrtle for teaching me something. I liked seeing Myrtle grow and becoming closer to her father. She's always idolized him and loves him, but she feels he is a bit strict about the rules for a Young Lady of Quality. He, of course, loves her and doesn't want to see her hurt or worse. He couldn't bear to lose Myrtle on top of losing his wife. It was nice to see him treat Myrtle with the respect her precocity deserves. It was fun to see them discuss the investigation together and even more fun to see Father unwind and become more youthful because it's Christmas. Myrtle makes a big mistake in her investigation. Any adult sleuth would know to She's a child so I guess she's bound to make mistakes and it will make her more relatable for her fellow tweens but I thought it was uncharacteristic of Miss Judson not to make Myrtle slow down and do more research before accusing someone of murder.
I especially like how the author includes diversity. There are a couple of brown-skinned characters and they each have a different shade of brown skin. The characters of color fit right into the story and don't feel shoehorned in for the sake of having diversity. Miss Judson is a delight. Not your average governess, I think she's Irrepressible herself. She's the one encouraging Myrtle to investigate and poking her nose in. In this novel we see Miss Judson's tough side come out. She has a temper and will stand her ground and fight. Of course this is upsetting for young Myrtle who loves her governess as a mother-figure. I enjoyed watching Miss Judson become involved in the investigating. She seemed to come alive and enjoy herself while pretending to be useful and helpful. Caroline Munjal, Myrtle's best friend, is lively and fun usually but here she's a little more subdued. Does she know something Myrtle doesn't? Her loyalty is to her father, of course, the kindly Dr. Munjal, who was at Schofield College the same time as Myrtle's mum and Olive Blackwell. He knew Professor Leighton too. What does HE know about the murder? His wife seems to know more about the incident with Olive Blackwell than she's telling Caroline. Of course they're not connected to any wrongdoing. As they point out, they must be extra careful and be above reproach because when a scapegoat is needed, the Indian Munjals will be the first to be sacrificed. (It's true, it happened, feel guilty because you should.)
Aunt Helena turned out to be a huge surprise. I think she is a closet Irrepressible. I think she never had the freedom and opportunities Myrtle has and being forced to fit a mold has made her cranky and mean. That doesn't excuse her poor taste in Christmas ornaments though but it makes her more three-dimensional than the usual wicked, strict older relative. She's growing and changing too and I hope Myrtle spends more time with Aunt Helena in the future and rubs off on the older lady. Mr. Blankney is back! I love how he calls Myrtle "Stephen." It's a private joke and not sexist. He's so good humored and eager to join in Myrtle's investigation. It's a good thing he's out of a job as a law clerk but has some knowledge of the law so he can be of help in varied ways.
The Mayor, father of Myrtle's nemesis LaRue Spence Hastings, is pretty awful. He's arrogant most of the time. The power and prestige of his largely ceremonial position has gone to his head. However, I think he seems scared of something and knows a lot more about the 20-year-old mystery and perhaps the present murder than he's willing to let people know about. Peony doesn't get to be a big part of the mystery this time. She is still disapproving, offering her opinion "no" to everything she doesn't like and demanding dinner- and extra dinner to make up for missed tea! She kind of makes me like cats. LaRue Hastings ends up a part of the investigating team. Go figure! She's still a mean girl and incredibly selfish but it's interesting to see how she actually lacks Myrtle's self-confidence and just isn't strong. She may be snotty and rude but she's a little more empathetic here.
There are several new characters tied to both the mysterious disappearence of Olive Blackwell and the present day murders. Mr. (former Professor Leighton) seems like a nice man. He's an artist and passionate about his displays of mini figures. Everyone looks forward to seeing them each Christmas and he works hard to please. His obsession with ancient Rome and archeology may be the key to his murder. I think he was punished enough losing his job, staying in the village and becoming a shopkeeper. I think his death is a real tragedy and undeserved no matter what he may have done. Unless he did something heinous to Olive. He doesn't seem the type but he was accused of corrupting the morals of the youth. His devoted wife prefers the simple life of a humble shopkeeper. She seems shocked by his death but she did have the opportunity. Did she know he was dead when she came to the shop that morning? She claims he stayed in the shop all night to make sure the display was perfect. Did anyone else know that? How would they gain access to the shop? What was his connection to Olive Blackwell? Did he leave behind an archive of papers. (Ooh yes please! More archival research!)
Jemima Bell, Myrtle's Mum, is becoming more of a fully fleshed character. She sounds wonderful! Not only was she smart but also kind and loving. She gave Myrtle the best possible childhood and left behind some sweet memories, some tangible and others just whisps in the back of Myrtle's mind. Her death sounds pretty horrid and my heart breaks for Myrtle. I can see why she misses Mum and why Father misses her too. She balanced out his serious demeanor and helped him lighten up. I don't think Mum seems like the type to have pushed a girl to her death. She's too nice and too intelligent to be a part of anything sordid but it sure sounds like she was involved and perhaps her cancer wasn't actually a tumor or perhaps something CAUSED the cancer to keep her from revealing secrets?
Leah, the organist of the Campanile, seems very nice. She even allows Myrtle to come up and see the inner workings and play the chimes with her. Her knowledge of Olive's disappearance is limited, as Leah was only a small girl 20 years ago. She seems intelligent and curious too. I think Leah is going to be Myrtle's newest ally. Imogene Shelley, the tabloid newspaper reporter, is also an Irrepressible, but not in a good way. She enjoys causing mischief and stirring the pot. While I appreciate a strong female who doesn't allow herself to be limited by societal expectations and social norms, I don't like her. She seems to be using Myrtle to sell papers and to help forward her own investigation. There's no one who can control her at all and that sounds dangerous. She seems overly interested in Olive Blackwell and in Mr. Leighton's murder. She's been on the spot and known specific details not even Myrtle knows. Could she be the murderer? I'm torn in my feelings about that. A much better choice for murderer is Miss Nora Carmichael, one of the gang Mum hung out with in college. She knew Olive Blackwell, Professor Leighton and everything that happened that fateful night. In spite of being a world famous traveler and archeologist (in Egypt! In 1893!) she is not a pleasant person. I would love to see her when Amelia Peabody shows up in Egypt! Something tells me Amelia would not appreciate Nora's more flamboyant style and how Nora seems to enjoy the fame and fortune. Professor Radcliffe Emerson she is NOT! (Meet them in Crocodile on the Sandbank) Nora's late brother was also part of the secret society. Does that give Nora extra insider knowledge of what happened to Olive? It sure seems like it to me. I'd rather have her be the murderer and get locked away than be the victim.
The surving Blackwells are weird and creepy. Mr. Blackwell was some kind of evangelical minister and Damaris seems to be affected or afflicted by his strict viewpoints. I wonder of Olive faked her death and ran away to get away with her disapproving family? That's what Myrtle's Mum hoped and I do too. I suspect Damaris may be the murderer, blaming Mr. Leighton for her family's downfall. She's left alone with her crazy invalid father, left to listen to him day in and day out, to take care of him. She's left to dwell on her mother's death and how Olive's disappearance affected the family. I can certainly see that causing someone to lose their mind and push them to commit murder. That combined with her severe religious beliefs.
This is a thrilling adventure for young and old. Parents will want to steal it from their kids and read it more quickly! I can't wait for In Myrtle Peril!
March 10, 2022
Bunce picks up Myrtle's story just a few months after the events of the previous volume, as the Christmas season is upon them, but nevertheless, that doesn't stop a murder from occurring. Determined not to investigate a new murder, Myrtle can't help herself from getting involved when it quickly appears to connect to a very old case that might involve Myrtle's mother. Fans will rejoice at being reunited with Myrtle, Miss Judson, and even Peony, a cat with attitude. The Myrtle Hardcastle mysteries have quickly become my favorite recent series and young readers will relish solving the crimes alongside a smart and determined young investigator. Review from e-galley.
July 10, 2021
I continue to love Myrtle. Her inquisitive, intelligent, take-charge personality leads her right into the middle of another murder investigation. All of my other favorite characters are still here, from long-suffering, yet secretly supportive Miss Judson to her frenemy, LaRue, and her best friend Caroline, representing a wonderfully diverse cast. This outing includes an important off-stage character, Myrtle's dead mother. Another fun story full of adventure, mystery and danger, set at Christmas time, which makes it perfect holiday reading. Recommended for middle grade (and older!) mystery lovers.
Review based on a review copy received through NetGalley.
Review based on a review copy received through NetGalley.
November 10, 2021
Oh my! I thoroughly enjoy every Myrtle mystery, and this one is no different. Such a delightful, mind-bending mystery. A proper mystery with clues and murder and suspects. Excellent. The best way to put yourself in the Christmas spirit is to read this book. I love that Myrtle's father interacts with us more in this book. We're privy to a few more details about her mum, and are given glimpses into why her father is so protective (along with some instances where he encourages her crime-loving nature). So good. Highly recommend. Can't wait for the next book!
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC! All opinions are my own.
December 14, 2021
The Myrtle Hardcastle series by Elizabeth C. Bunce is always delightful. The characters are so much fun and they always have good mysteries. In Cold-Blooded Myrtle, Myrtle is once again drawn into mystery and intrigue when a local shop owner is murdered and a mysterious message left behind as a signature from the killer. While I did figure out who the killer was early on, that didn't detract from my enjoyment watching the story unfold. I highly recommend this series to middle grade readers and adults alike.
March 11, 2022
Dear Reader, Myrtle finds herself faced with another suspicious death as she's preparing for Christmas. This leads her to a deeper mystery that may involve her mother. Can she trust friends old and new or is one of them the murderer?
Myrtle, Miss Judson, Peony and Aunt Helena don't disappoint in the third installment of the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series. I especially enjoyed the yuletide facts at the beginning of each chapter. Myrtle sure knows how to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, like La Bufana and Mari Lwyd.
Myrtle, Miss Judson, Peony and Aunt Helena don't disappoint in the third installment of the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series. I especially enjoyed the yuletide facts at the beginning of each chapter. Myrtle sure knows how to focus on the true meaning of Christmas, like La Bufana and Mari Lwyd.
January 28, 2022
Details of holiday traditions on various countries are noted, as well other literary and cultural trivia. Intriguing, and sometimes dark, mystery. Myrtle is fun and funny, as she sorts out the clues, some of which hit uncomfortably close to home.
March 7, 2022
I had some strong opinions about this series in the beginning, finding the author’s descriptions of female characters off-putting at best and downright harmful at worst. I think that the whole ~she’s not like other girls~ commentary that the author fell into is outdated and extremely insidious.
However, I stuck it out and kept reading the other books and I am happy that I did. In this one, the nuance displayed towards this overwhelmingly female cast was refreshing. I’m happy that I didn’t give up hope.
Engaging! Fun! Character growth! 4.5!!!
However, I stuck it out and kept reading the other books and I am happy that I did. In this one, the nuance displayed towards this overwhelmingly female cast was refreshing. I’m happy that I didn’t give up hope.
Engaging! Fun! Character growth! 4.5!!!
November 25, 2021
So fun. Looking forward to the next one! I love the asterisk notes at the bottom for further explanation…however, after reading the three books in a row I am finding myself looking toward the bottom of pages of my next book and not understanding why there are no notes 🤦🏼♀️😂
March 9, 2021
Myrtle is my hero, I loved this mystery and jumping back into her world with Miss Judson and Peony.
November 29, 2021
I love this series so freaking much. It gives me so much joy and happiness and warmth and comfort. What more could you want from a story? ❤❤
I can't wait for the next adventure!
I can't wait for the next adventure!
April 28, 2022
Solving murder mysteries in a small English town sounds like a great way to live and Myrtle is becoming a professional at only twelve! She's so entertaining and I love each time she explains things to adults and makes it clear she's a better detective. Myrtle and her governess Miss Judson set out to solve a string of murders that may tie to a missing person's case from years ago and learn some secrets involving Myrtle's late mother too.
These are fun stories and keep the reader interested with new clues, murders, and interesting side characters. I'm in love with Miss Judson, she's a great mentor to Myrtle and a strong, intelligent woman. I liked that this installment featured a cold case along with new murders, there was a lot going on and this sped by!
I love the narrator for the audiobooks! She has a nice accent and embodies Myrtle so well.
These are fun stories and keep the reader interested with new clues, murders, and interesting side characters. I'm in love with Miss Judson, she's a great mentor to Myrtle and a strong, intelligent woman. I liked that this installment featured a cold case along with new murders, there was a lot going on and this sped by!
I love the narrator for the audiobooks! She has a nice accent and embodies Myrtle so well.
February 20, 2022
Read with my 12y/o daughter
From my 12 year old daughter: “I loved the book. It’s very descriptive. And I love Myrtle’s humor.” We can’t wait for the next one!
From my 12 year old daughter: “I loved the book. It’s very descriptive. And I love Myrtle’s humor.” We can’t wait for the next one!
February 8, 2022
As Christmas nears, Myrtle finds herself on the scene of another murder. When Mr. Leighton, the owner of Leighton’s Mercantile, is found dead, questions come up about a mysterious scandal in his past. Myrtle sets out to discover what happened those years before, how it’s related to what’s happening now, and how she can stop the killer from killing again. Another wonderful Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery! Myrtle and Miss Judson are both such strong, interesting, and fun characters! Looking forward to number four!
October 6, 2021
Myrtle and her governess, Miss Judson, are once again thrust onto the crime-fighting scene in this winter tale set in Swinburne. On the morning of the annual reveal of the dry goods Christmas display, the shopkeeper is found dead under very strange circumstances. And the display hints at the tragedy that derailed the shopkeeper's career as a professor and archeologist decades ago.
During the investigation into those academic years, Myrtle discovers a photograph that includes her mother in a group of students. A fellow classmate of her mother fell to her death during their college days, but her demise was never explained or solved. Now Myrtle is trying to track down the others in that photo to find out anything they might know about that tragedy as well as who may have wanted to take revenge on the shopkeeper.
Myrtle, with her exceptional powers of detection and observation, is sadly hampered by a protective father, a proper governess, and rather unimaginative officers of the law. What's a plucky girl to do but try to solve the crime on her own? Even if the process uncovers less than flattering facts about her mother. Join Myrtle on her hunt for truth and justice! A lovely cozy mystery for ages 10 and up. I can't think of a more perfect book to read together as a family on a crisp autumn day or chilly winter night (preferably by a roaring fire)!
Wholesome, witty, vocabulary-building and full of Victorian charm, order the whole series (this is book #3). Check out the author's website for information about the first two books in this delightful series! Hoping that author Elizabeth C. Bunce will pen many more Myrtle adventures!
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reader copy of Cold-Blooded Myrtle from Algonquin Books for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
During the investigation into those academic years, Myrtle discovers a photograph that includes her mother in a group of students. A fellow classmate of her mother fell to her death during their college days, but her demise was never explained or solved. Now Myrtle is trying to track down the others in that photo to find out anything they might know about that tragedy as well as who may have wanted to take revenge on the shopkeeper.
Myrtle, with her exceptional powers of detection and observation, is sadly hampered by a protective father, a proper governess, and rather unimaginative officers of the law. What's a plucky girl to do but try to solve the crime on her own? Even if the process uncovers less than flattering facts about her mother. Join Myrtle on her hunt for truth and justice! A lovely cozy mystery for ages 10 and up. I can't think of a more perfect book to read together as a family on a crisp autumn day or chilly winter night (preferably by a roaring fire)!
Wholesome, witty, vocabulary-building and full of Victorian charm, order the whole series (this is book #3). Check out the author's website for information about the first two books in this delightful series! Hoping that author Elizabeth C. Bunce will pen many more Myrtle adventures!
Disclaimer: I received a free advanced reader copy of Cold-Blooded Myrtle from Algonquin Books for the purpose of review. No other compensation was received.
February 11, 2022
Wonderful middle grade mystery series! Impressed by the writing. Loved the characters but especially the cat, Peony. My only regret is not reading this at Christmas time—would’ve been perfect!
April 23, 2023
Twelve-year-old Myrtle Hardcastle is at Leighton’s Mercantile in Swinburne when Mr. Leighton, former professor of archaeology, is found dead inside following the grand unveiling of his annual Christmas window display, which also contains clues about his death. Accompanied by her French Guianese governess, Ms. Ada Judson, amateur sleuth Myrtle uncovers clues about an event that destroyed Professor Leighton’s career as a leading archaeologist when a female student fell from the Campanile, Schofield College’s famous bell tower, during a secret society initiation that included her now-deceased mum. As Myrtle’s suspects die, the updated window display reveals new clues. After her father, a prosecuting solicitor, insists she stop investigating, Myrtle finds a way to proceed ahead without breaking her promise to him. In a heart-pounding climax, Myrtle risks her life to connect past events to the present murders. Back matter includes “A Note from the Author” about cold cases and archaeology. New readers to the series can catch up with prior adventures of this young Victorian investigator in Premeditated Myrtle (#1, 2020) and How to Get Away with Myrtle (#2, 2020).
October 29, 2021
Thank you Algonquin Young Readers for the gifted book!
What a lovely venture back into the world of Myrtle. This one is so Christmasy and fabulous that I was wanting to get out my Christmas decor in October.
Myrtle is prepping for Christmas and with Miss Judson attends the unveiling of the annual miniature display at the local mercantile. But what is unveiled is the beginning of a mystery and Myrtle and company have to solve to stop the murderer on the loose. Myrtle also has to face some pieces of the past that are crucial to her own story.
Bunce weaves together these mysteries of past and present so skillfully and adds so much character development not only to Myrtle in this one but to the endearing side characters as well. Plus Myrtle's signature advice and information is present at the beginning of each chapter, this time Christmas related. Also, let's not forget, Peony the cat, who is the best animal sidekick a girl could have with her signature commentary. Bunce is an auto buy author for me. Magnificent.
What a lovely venture back into the world of Myrtle. This one is so Christmasy and fabulous that I was wanting to get out my Christmas decor in October.
Myrtle is prepping for Christmas and with Miss Judson attends the unveiling of the annual miniature display at the local mercantile. But what is unveiled is the beginning of a mystery and Myrtle and company have to solve to stop the murderer on the loose. Myrtle also has to face some pieces of the past that are crucial to her own story.
Bunce weaves together these mysteries of past and present so skillfully and adds so much character development not only to Myrtle in this one but to the endearing side characters as well. Plus Myrtle's signature advice and information is present at the beginning of each chapter, this time Christmas related. Also, let's not forget, Peony the cat, who is the best animal sidekick a girl could have with her signature commentary. Bunce is an auto buy author for me. Magnificent.
October 10, 2021
I feel like as we get more into each book the mysteries get more and more exciting. I can’t say this ENOUGH, but I wish I had this book when I was younger, I am enjoying them this much now I know back when I was YA, not that long ago, lol, I would’ve enjoyed it so much. So much goes on in this book, I don’t want to give it away, but I love how it’s never a dull moment EVER! This book was most definitely a page turner.
It’s a great stand alone but for me I loved seeing the older characters from the past books in this one, I’m loving how Miss J has evolved as a character, and who knows when it comes to her and Mr. Hardcastle! Because I KNOW, I’m not the only one who thinks they should be together ALREADY!!! Lol, Can’t wait to read more of Myrtles mystery solving and more of Peony!! Thanks Algonquin for giving me the opportunity to read this book and for my advanced copy….
It’s a great stand alone but for me I loved seeing the older characters from the past books in this one, I’m loving how Miss J has evolved as a character, and who knows when it comes to her and Mr. Hardcastle! Because I KNOW, I’m not the only one who thinks they should be together ALREADY!!! Lol, Can’t wait to read more of Myrtles mystery solving and more of Peony!! Thanks Algonquin for giving me the opportunity to read this book and for my advanced copy….
October 15, 2021
Cold-Blooded Myrtle is a delightful, erudite, middle-grade mystery with a cracking ending. There’s archaeology, maps, model-making, music, patchwork, poison, secret societies, and more helpings of Stansberry Pie.
Set at the cusp of the twentieth-century, with all its thrilling discoveries in science, forensics, and detection, the Myrtle Mysteries stand out for their strong female characters. Miss Judson the governess, Imogen Shelley the newshound, and Nora Carmichael the archaeologist are intelligent, brave, robust women exemplifying derring-do.
But it is twelve-year-old Myrtle who shines brightest. Her distinct, precocious voice, sharp mind, scientific vocabulary, and delightfully-morbid curiosity mark her as a winning and worthy heroine.
Set at the cusp of the twentieth-century, with all its thrilling discoveries in science, forensics, and detection, the Myrtle Mysteries stand out for their strong female characters. Miss Judson the governess, Imogen Shelley the newshound, and Nora Carmichael the archaeologist are intelligent, brave, robust women exemplifying derring-do.
But it is twelve-year-old Myrtle who shines brightest. Her distinct, precocious voice, sharp mind, scientific vocabulary, and delightfully-morbid curiosity mark her as a winning and worthy heroine.
October 5, 2021
Cold-Blooded Myrtle is the third book in the Myrtle Hardcastle Mystery series but each book stands on its own. Once again Myrtle finds herself looking for clues to solve a mystery along with her cat and governess in tow. The book is set in Victorian England and that just adds to the fun. As an adult I love this series and middle grade readers will find it engrossing and educational which I whole heartedly approve. If you have young readers, check out this series. I can't wait to see what Myrtle gets into next!
November 24, 2021
Just in time for putting me in the Christmas mood! Another rollicking Myrtle mystery.
I deeply enjoyed the plot, which was in a Agatha Christie vein of a small town murder suddenly escalating on a wide scale..the ending I felt, was a little frustrating because the character suddenly became incurious when they should have investigated. But maybe I've read so much Agatha Christie I look at plots differently.
Can't wait for the next one!
Really enjoyed getting to know Myrtle's mother better, and more scenes with my favorites.
I deeply enjoyed the plot, which was in a Agatha Christie vein of a small town murder suddenly escalating on a wide scale..the ending I felt, was a little frustrating because the character suddenly became incurious when they should have investigated. But maybe I've read so much Agatha Christie I look at plots differently.
Can't wait for the next one!
Really enjoyed getting to know Myrtle's mother better, and more scenes with my favorites.
November 29, 2021
I've listened to all three (so far) books in the Myrtle Hardcastle series this year and it has been a delightful experience! The mysteries are funny, clever, entertaining, and just all kinds of enjoyable. Bethan Rose Young does an excellent job narrating. I love her.
Like the previous two books in the series, COLD-BLOODED MYRTLE offers up a cast of interesting, lovable characters; an intriguing, twisty mystery; and jaunty, well-written prose. The holiday setting makes the novel especially cozy. I loved the book, just as I have its predecessors. I can't wait for the next installment!
Like the previous two books in the series, COLD-BLOODED MYRTLE offers up a cast of interesting, lovable characters; an intriguing, twisty mystery; and jaunty, well-written prose. The holiday setting makes the novel especially cozy. I loved the book, just as I have its predecessors. I can't wait for the next installment!
June 6, 2021
So excited to see another story with Myrtle. These books are so cute and great for middle grade readers. I always wonder if I can solve the case before Myrtle and it never happens but I have a lot of fun finding out the clues with her. I hope we get more in this series. I loved this one so much and hope to see this series being picked up for a series on tv.
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