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Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries #2
Scalpels & Psychopaths
I assumed the worst I'd have to endure at a boring birthday party was cheap champagne, and dull conversation. Murder never crossed my mind.
After three months of struggling to fit into the small town of Rainy Dale, Texas, Maxwell Thornton is once again thrown into the middle of a murder investigation. While attending Mayor Penelope Granger's birthday party, he and Royce are witnesses to the cold blooded murder of her father.
Seeing as he's sheriff, Royce has no choice but to get involved in solving the murder, but he'd prefer Maxwell stay at a safe distance. Maxwell would prefer that too, but when an attempt in made on his life, he's unwillingly sucked into the case.
When Maxwell moved to Rainy Dale, he'd hoped for a new beginning. But after two attempts on his life, and his unnerving emotional attachment to Royce, more and more Maxwell wonders if staying in Rainy Dale is the logical choice. Perhaps it's time to run back to Los Angeles, where he can keep his body, and his heart, safe.
After three months of struggling to fit into the small town of Rainy Dale, Texas, Maxwell Thornton is once again thrown into the middle of a murder investigation. While attending Mayor Penelope Granger's birthday party, he and Royce are witnesses to the cold blooded murder of her father.
Seeing as he's sheriff, Royce has no choice but to get involved in solving the murder, but he'd prefer Maxwell stay at a safe distance. Maxwell would prefer that too, but when an attempt in made on his life, he's unwillingly sucked into the case.
When Maxwell moved to Rainy Dale, he'd hoped for a new beginning. But after two attempts on his life, and his unnerving emotional attachment to Royce, more and more Maxwell wonders if staying in Rainy Dale is the logical choice. Perhaps it's time to run back to Los Angeles, where he can keep his body, and his heart, safe.
248 pages, ebook
First published February 27, 2021
About the author
S.C. Wynne
70 books593 followersS.C. Wynne is a Lambda Award-winning author for Gay Romance. S.C. started writing m/m romance and mystery in 2013. Her characters are usually a little jaded, funny, and ultimately redeemed through love.
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
If you’d like to contact S.C. Wynne she'd love to hear from you. You can contact her at scwynne@scwynne.com
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December 30, 2022Time of death - 30%
September 19, 2024
El Dr. Thornton apenas se esta acostumbrando a su nueva clínica y a su "relación" con el sheriff, cuando un nuevo asesinato ocurre casi que frente a ellos en una fiesta de cumpleaños. Así que ahora el Sheriff tiene que poner todo su empeño y conocimiento en descubrir el porque y quien asesino a este hombre. Por otro lado el Dr. intenta aceptar que su vida en el pueblo esta siendo mas complicada de lo que esperaba, y que quizás no sea suficiente el querer quedarse por el Sheriff, sino que tendrá que ver si realmente el pueblo lo quiere ahí.
Podrá el Dr. aceptar que no solo esta "pasando el rato" con el Sheriff? Podrán descubrir las razones de este nuevo asesino?
Este caso si me tuvo dando vueltas para averiguar el culpable durante toda la trama. No me imagine ni por un momento quien era el asesino, y aunque sospechaba de muchos, la forma como el autor manejo este misterio me resulto mucho mas entretenida que el anterior. Me gusto la forma como ambos protas deciden que si pueden darse una oportunidad sin decirlo, pero no me gusto la forma como siguen auto-recriminándose cosas que ya estaban resueltas (o creo que ya se resolvieron).
Me gusto como comienzan a aparecer mas personajes secundarios interesante, y como el pueblo comienza a aceptar la extraña personalidad de su nuevo doctor.
En fin, me están gustando mucho las aventuras de estos dos, así que voy a continuar con la serie.
Podrá el Dr. aceptar que no solo esta "pasando el rato" con el Sheriff? Podrán descubrir las razones de este nuevo asesino?
Este caso si me tuvo dando vueltas para averiguar el culpable durante toda la trama. No me imagine ni por un momento quien era el asesino, y aunque sospechaba de muchos, la forma como el autor manejo este misterio me resulto mucho mas entretenida que el anterior. Me gusto la forma como ambos protas deciden que si pueden darse una oportunidad sin decirlo, pero no me gusto la forma como siguen auto-recriminándose cosas que ya estaban resueltas (o creo que ya se resolvieron).
Me gusto como comienzan a aparecer mas personajes secundarios interesante, y como el pueblo comienza a aceptar la extraña personalidad de su nuevo doctor.
En fin, me están gustando mucho las aventuras de estos dos, así que voy a continuar con la serie.
April 7, 2025
Reread 04/2025 review- 2.75〜3 stars.
Original 03/2023 review-3.5 stars??
Original 03/2023 review-3.5 stars??
June 8, 2024
I can’t decide if I am going to continue with thjs series. On the one hand, they are nice little, easy read mysteries. On the other hand, one of the main characters is so unlikable and has not really grown on me over the course of the first two books. I wish more context was given to explain why he is the way he is, because mostly he just comes across as a jerk. I really like the other main character, but that just makes the way he’s treated by Maxwell even harder to take. I will probably give it one more book to see if it gets any better. I’m curious if there is satisfying character development over the course of the series for Maxwell and if the reasons for his personality are explained more over the course of the remaining books.
April 4, 2022
4.5-Stars
S.C. Wynne’s ongoing ‘Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries’ series is great fun.
The series follows the developing relationship between two fascinating characters: (1) Dr. Maxwell Thornton, a renowned surgeon from LA who, for reasons of his own, has left that big city behind moving to Rainy Dale, TX where he has accepted a position as that town’s new general practitioner, and (2) Rainy Dale’s long-time, extremely handsome Sheriff, Royce Callum.
Each book in the series presents a new murder, plenty of clues to mislead the reader as to the perpetrator, and, of course, a final arrest of the actual murderer. This formula, as Maxwell is the first to point out, means that Rainy Dale - with a population of about 1,000 - has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
Each book also advances the relationship between Maxwell and Royce - helped along by Royce’s adorable adopted black lab puppy, Grumpy, and Maxwell’s delightful office assistant/manager, Girdy.
Of course Scalpels and Psychopaths follows the series formula making it a great read for anyone who enjoys gay male romance novels combined with a first class mystery.
S.C. Wynne’s ongoing ‘Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries’ series is great fun.
The series follows the developing relationship between two fascinating characters: (1) Dr. Maxwell Thornton, a renowned surgeon from LA who, for reasons of his own, has left that big city behind moving to Rainy Dale, TX where he has accepted a position as that town’s new general practitioner, and (2) Rainy Dale’s long-time, extremely handsome Sheriff, Royce Callum.
Each book in the series presents a new murder, plenty of clues to mislead the reader as to the perpetrator, and, of course, a final arrest of the actual murderer. This formula, as Maxwell is the first to point out, means that Rainy Dale - with a population of about 1,000 - has one of the highest murder rates in the world.
Each book also advances the relationship between Maxwell and Royce - helped along by Royce’s adorable adopted black lab puppy, Grumpy, and Maxwell’s delightful office assistant/manager, Girdy.
Of course Scalpels and Psychopaths follows the series formula making it a great read for anyone who enjoys gay male romance novels combined with a first class mystery.
June 2, 2023
Oh, I liked this even more than the first book. I had to laugh out loud a few times because sometimes Max is just hilarious 😂
February 2, 2022
3,5 stars
February 28, 2021
Once again, S.c. Wynne has given us the perfect combination of mystery and romance. In the latest installment, Royce and Maxwell both struggle to come to terms with their growing emotions while Royce attempts to solve a murder. Maxwell comes off initially as cold and unfeeling but S.c. Wynne gives us peeks into his psyche, allowing the reader to see his struggle with allowing himself to feel. And Royce is just the perfect man—caring and concerned and loving but vulnerable. you just want to hug him.
There's no stinting on the murder investigation either as Royce has to sift through a series of suspects, each of whom has a reason for wanting to kill the victim and the twist at the end will surprise you.
I can't wait for the next book!
There's no stinting on the murder investigation either as Royce has to sift through a series of suspects, each of whom has a reason for wanting to kill the victim and the twist at the end will surprise you.
I can't wait for the next book!
May 18, 2021
For a small Texan easy-going town of just over 1000 folk, I'd be extremely concerned when two murders take place within months of a new doctor relocating there; and especially one whose clinical manner is more akin to Doc Martin than Patch Adams. Following straight on from the disastrous party events at the end of the first book, the plot unfolds via alternating POVs from Dr Max and Sheriff Royce - a straightforward whodunnit with a handful of suspects.
I'm not entirely sure Doctor-Patient confidentiality was best served in one scenario here and it seemed a little too premature that Royce should be divulging case findings with a new 'not quite partner' all that easily. Still - overall, an entertaining 'cozy' with some interesting characters and some progression on the M-M romance front for the MCs. And with the previous book, this one too ends with an 'epilogue' that sets the murderous scene for the next title.
I'm not entirely sure Doctor-Patient confidentiality was best served in one scenario here and it seemed a little too premature that Royce should be divulging case findings with a new 'not quite partner' all that easily. Still - overall, an entertaining 'cozy' with some interesting characters and some progression on the M-M romance front for the MCs. And with the previous book, this one too ends with an 'epilogue' that sets the murderous scene for the next title.
June 9, 2022
Nice cozy mystery, with likable main characters, and an interesting murder mystery.
Just two points where your suspension of disbelief will have to make some heavy lifting:
(1) The known "Jessica Fletcher syndrome" (see the series Gin & Daggers), typical in cozy mystery series, where an inordinate amount of murders happen arround a person or a small(ish) town (see also Ms. Marple).
(2) A small town in Texas with 1000 inhabitants that --from the top of my head-- not only has a doctor, and a sheriff with two deputies and a receptionist, but also 4 restaurants (Burger, Italian, Chinese, Falafel), several gift shops, a tire repair shop, and a general store. I haven't heard about the gas station or the car/tractor workshop, but I'm pretty sure such a busy town must have them.
So, count the series to fantasy if you want, but it is worth a read.
Just two points where your suspension of disbelief will have to make some heavy lifting:
(1) The known "Jessica Fletcher syndrome" (see the series Gin & Daggers), typical in cozy mystery series, where an inordinate amount of murders happen arround a person or a small(ish) town (see also Ms. Marple).
(2) A small town in Texas with 1000 inhabitants that --from the top of my head-- not only has a doctor, and a sheriff with two deputies and a receptionist, but also 4 restaurants (Burger, Italian, Chinese, Falafel), several gift shops, a tire repair shop, and a general store. I haven't heard about the gas station or the car/tractor workshop, but I'm pretty sure such a busy town must have them.
So, count the series to fantasy if you want, but it is worth a read.
February 24, 2021
I just finished reading an advanced review copy of S.C. Wynne’s latest mystery, SCALPELS AND PSYCHOPATHS (book 2 in her DR. MAXWELL THORNTON MURDER MYSTERIES series), and thoroughly enjoyed it. As before, her characters are well-drawn, her protagonists likable and relatable, and the mystery is well-conceived, with enough red herrings and breadcrumbs to keep you guessing right up to the end. In addition, the developing romance between the intractable Dr. Thornton (Max) and his easy-going lover, Sheriff Callum (Royce), is simultaneously as steamy as it is tenuous. Max, a city fish out of water in the small town or Rainy Dale, Texas, can’t seem to break free of his reputation as rude and unlikable by the people who come to him for medical care and he years to return “home” to Los Angeles where he doesn’t need to struggle to fit in … but if he gave up on Rainy Dale, he’d have to give up on a future with Royce too, and that’s a decisions he’s not ready to make. In the meantime, there’s another murder in Rainy Dale that needs solving, and Max inadvertently finds himself in the middle of it once again. A fun ride from beginning to the end, I highly recommend this book.
February 26, 2021
Scalpels and Psychopaths is the second book in this series, and I got to say that I absolutely love Max and Royce, they are truly made for one another and complement each other so perfectly. No better two could have been paired.
There is another murder in Rainy Dale and Royce has got his hands full with this one. A murderer is on the loose and there are way too many suspect. While Royce is trying to catch the murderer, Max is still struggling with the small town dynamics and his terrible beside manners. As well, they are still working on their relationship and what exactly that mean for each of them. So, it's a little mystery (nothing hard core) and a little love all mixed into one. Great read and flows nicely.
So totally enjoyed it. I CANNOT wait to see what happens in the next book!
I received an ARC of this book, and freely provide my review.
There is another murder in Rainy Dale and Royce has got his hands full with this one. A murderer is on the loose and there are way too many suspect. While Royce is trying to catch the murderer, Max is still struggling with the small town dynamics and his terrible beside manners. As well, they are still working on their relationship and what exactly that mean for each of them. So, it's a little mystery (nothing hard core) and a little love all mixed into one. Great read and flows nicely.
So totally enjoyed it. I CANNOT wait to see what happens in the next book!
I received an ARC of this book, and freely provide my review.
February 28, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. Max and Royce are to been thrown right into their next adventure. Another murder has occured - right under everyone's nose. Royce's working overtime to find the killer and Max still tries to make amends with the townspeople. The age-guessing-scene has been a great way to show how he'll might never be successful. Their relationship grows stronger by the day, though neither of them wants to put a label on them and just go with the flow. But when both their lifes are threated, will they stand up for each other or will Max run back to LA? Love this series.
July 12, 2023
Sometimes it takes a while till I get into the groove of maxwells humour. But when you are on the same wavelength it is fun to read.
June 11, 2021
Fun series
I am really enjoying this series. In fact, I’m writing this review at 4:45 in the morning because I didn’t want to put the book down.
Maxwell and Royce are compelling characters who draw you in. Maxwell reminds me a little of Dr. House, though House knew he was being a jerk and didn’t care. Maxwell just has no social graces whatsoever thanks to his upbringing. But he seems to be gradually learning. Royce is an endearing character. I love how he knows Maxwell has issues but can look past them to the man inside.
The mysteries are like good old fashioned mystery whodunit stories. There’s murder and mayhem and a selection of potential suspects. The author does a good job throwing out clues as well as red herrings. I have to say I figured out the killer here just about from the moment the person was introduced. But there are some really unlikeable people here so it would have been nice if quite a few of them ended up in jail!
There are some story elements that could have benefitted from better depth or explanation. A major element of the story really doesn’t make a lot of sense and the justification the perpetrator gives is pretty darn weak.
These books are almost cozy like in nature. The mystery and the characters are the main focus. The relationship element is integral but not really the focus and while there is certainly sex it’s not as steamy as in some other m/m books. I’m enjoying that aspect since I just recently finished a series where the sex seemed to be the primary motivation for the writing.
I’m glad book three in this series was just released so I can move on to it quickly. And Maxwell better watch it or he’ll be Texas’ answer to Jessica Fletcher who seemed to bring murder wherever she went. (I never understood why people kept inviting her places! I’d have avoided her like the plague!!)
I am really enjoying this series. In fact, I’m writing this review at 4:45 in the morning because I didn’t want to put the book down.
Maxwell and Royce are compelling characters who draw you in. Maxwell reminds me a little of Dr. House, though House knew he was being a jerk and didn’t care. Maxwell just has no social graces whatsoever thanks to his upbringing. But he seems to be gradually learning. Royce is an endearing character. I love how he knows Maxwell has issues but can look past them to the man inside.
The mysteries are like good old fashioned mystery whodunit stories. There’s murder and mayhem and a selection of potential suspects. The author does a good job throwing out clues as well as red herrings. I have to say I figured out the killer here just about from the moment the person was introduced. But there are some really unlikeable people here so it would have been nice if quite a few of them ended up in jail!
There are some story elements that could have benefitted from better depth or explanation. A major element of the story really doesn’t make a lot of sense and the justification the perpetrator gives is pretty darn weak.
These books are almost cozy like in nature. The mystery and the characters are the main focus. The relationship element is integral but not really the focus and while there is certainly sex it’s not as steamy as in some other m/m books. I’m enjoying that aspect since I just recently finished a series where the sex seemed to be the primary motivation for the writing.
I’m glad book three in this series was just released so I can move on to it quickly. And Maxwell better watch it or he’ll be Texas’ answer to Jessica Fletcher who seemed to bring murder wherever she went. (I never understood why people kept inviting her places! I’d have avoided her like the plague!!)
March 26, 2025
Max et Royce avec un Culomètre à 🍑🍆
Ben dis donc, je ne pensais pas autant aimer cette série, mais elle me fait le même effet que "Teinté de Mystère" de Aimée Nicole Walker, elle ne paye pas de mine, sauf que, arriver à la fin, je me rends compte que j'ai adoré ma lecture malgré les faiblesses du récit !
On reprend ce tome avec la suite directe du premier, le père de la maire de la ville, Bob, assassiné en pleine fête. Maxwell, qui pensait rester tranquille dans une petite ville, voit deux meurtres en l'espace de peu de temps. Surtout qu'il doit toujours se faire accepter par les habitants malgré son penchant pour dire toutes les vérités qui lui passe par la tête. Heureusement qu'il peut compter sur le chérif Royce pour l'apprécier un tant soit peu et pour le réconforter le soir dans son lit !
Oh mon dieu, le personnage de Maxwell est vraiment hilarant, c'est vraiment un homme cruellement de compassion, bien qu'il travaille comme médecin généraliste, même si, au contact de Royce, il arrive à être de plus en plus chaleureux et empathique avec ses patients, ce n'est absolument pas gagner. Mais sa personnalité va exactement avec son contexte familial : il a été élevé sans amour où juste la performance et le travail acharné ne compte. Autant dire que ce n'est pas ce que recherche des habitants d'une petite ville où le médecin est un peu comme un psy...
Le point ultra-positif est que Royce et Maxwell communiquent très bien, s'ils ont besoin d'un de l'autre, ils n'hésitent pas à le dire, s'ils ont des doutes, ils les éclaircissent et, franchement, ça fait du bien. Au contact de Royce, Max devient moins froid, s'adoucit et apprend à aimer et à recevoir l'amour qu'on lui donne, et, ce n'était absolument pas gagné !!
Concernant l'enquête, ce n'est pas des plus travaillé, mais, on en demande finalement pas plus et elle reste assez développée pour que cela soit intéressant dans le récit. Personnellement, je n'en demande pas plus !
Bref, j'adore vraiment ce que nous propose l'autrice avec cette saga et je serais à fond dedans jusqu'à la fin. Pour les fans de Elle Keaton et sa série "Intensions voilées", je pense que cette série de S.C Wynne pourrait vraiment vous plaire !
Ben dis donc, je ne pensais pas autant aimer cette série, mais elle me fait le même effet que "Teinté de Mystère" de Aimée Nicole Walker, elle ne paye pas de mine, sauf que, arriver à la fin, je me rends compte que j'ai adoré ma lecture malgré les faiblesses du récit !
On reprend ce tome avec la suite directe du premier, le père de la maire de la ville, Bob, assassiné en pleine fête. Maxwell, qui pensait rester tranquille dans une petite ville, voit deux meurtres en l'espace de peu de temps. Surtout qu'il doit toujours se faire accepter par les habitants malgré son penchant pour dire toutes les vérités qui lui passe par la tête. Heureusement qu'il peut compter sur le chérif Royce pour l'apprécier un tant soit peu et pour le réconforter le soir dans son lit !
Oh mon dieu, le personnage de Maxwell est vraiment hilarant, c'est vraiment un homme cruellement de compassion, bien qu'il travaille comme médecin généraliste, même si, au contact de Royce, il arrive à être de plus en plus chaleureux et empathique avec ses patients, ce n'est absolument pas gagner. Mais sa personnalité va exactement avec son contexte familial : il a été élevé sans amour où juste la performance et le travail acharné ne compte. Autant dire que ce n'est pas ce que recherche des habitants d'une petite ville où le médecin est un peu comme un psy...
Le point ultra-positif est que Royce et Maxwell communiquent très bien, s'ils ont besoin d'un de l'autre, ils n'hésitent pas à le dire, s'ils ont des doutes, ils les éclaircissent et, franchement, ça fait du bien. Au contact de Royce, Max devient moins froid, s'adoucit et apprend à aimer et à recevoir l'amour qu'on lui donne, et, ce n'était absolument pas gagné !!
Concernant l'enquête, ce n'est pas des plus travaillé, mais, on en demande finalement pas plus et elle reste assez développée pour que cela soit intéressant dans le récit. Personnellement, je n'en demande pas plus !
Bref, j'adore vraiment ce que nous propose l'autrice avec cette saga et je serais à fond dedans jusqu'à la fin. Pour les fans de Elle Keaton et sa série "Intensions voilées", je pense que cette série de S.C Wynne pourrait vraiment vous plaire !
March 1, 2021
4.5 Stars!
This is the second installment in the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries and it needs to be read in order.
So, while Maxwell has grown on me, I have to admit that his bedside manner is not the best. Although, to his credit, he's really trying his best to be more empathetic, both to Royce and to his patients, even if sometimes it backfires. Royce is definitely a saint and a gentleman, he's amazing with Maxwell and I think he deserves all the good things in the world. I just wanted to give him a huge hug at one point when he was really down. *hugs Royce* I love them together, while Royce is definitely my favorite of the two, Maxwell is really trying to be better for Royce and to make the best of the situation in Rainy Dale.
The mystery/procedural portion of the book was very well done. I really liked the twists and turns, it definitely kept my interest throughout.
Overall, this was an amazing continuation of this series and I can't wait for more. That ending has me hooked! Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
This is the second installment in the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries and it needs to be read in order.
So, while Maxwell has grown on me, I have to admit that his bedside manner is not the best. Although, to his credit, he's really trying his best to be more empathetic, both to Royce and to his patients, even if sometimes it backfires. Royce is definitely a saint and a gentleman, he's amazing with Maxwell and I think he deserves all the good things in the world. I just wanted to give him a huge hug at one point when he was really down. *hugs Royce* I love them together, while Royce is definitely my favorite of the two, Maxwell is really trying to be better for Royce and to make the best of the situation in Rainy Dale.
The mystery/procedural portion of the book was very well done. I really liked the twists and turns, it definitely kept my interest throughout.
Overall, this was an amazing continuation of this series and I can't wait for more. That ending has me hooked! Very recommendable!
*** Copy provided for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
July 18, 2024
This is the second book in the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries series. You need to read the series in order as the relationships develop with each new book. Each book has a separate murder to solve but the main characters remain the same. This is the story of Dr. Maxwell Thornton and Sheriff Royce Callum. Max has absolutely no situational awareness when it comes to social niceties expected behavior. He comes across are uncaring and rude. When you realize that he used to be a well respected surgeon before taking the position of a new general practitioner for the town of Rainy Dale, Texas; it makes perfect sense. In his old job, he did his talking through his surgery skills. He didn't interact with patients and families. Both he and the town are having troubles adjusting to the new work order. Royce on the other hand is friendly and outgoing. Well respected and liked by the town. So the town has a hard time understanding why Royce and Max start seeing each other. But really, it is a case of Ying and Yang. They offset each other. And as the stories progress, we will see more of Royce rubbing off on Maxwell and how he interacts with the townsfolk. This is their story. The book is very well written and easy to read. I quickly devoured it in one sitting. I enjoyed getting to know the townsfolk and seeing how Royce and Maxwell are finding their way towards a relationship. I really enjoyed this book.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
August 13, 2021
5 Stars for Maxwell & Royce, book 2 in this series
No spoilers here! 😀
This pushes all my buttons: continuing series with the same MCs, law enforcement, MCs over 25 (actually around 40), personal baggage, believable mystery without too much gore, great chemistry, hot sex (but not a lot in this series), fun secondary characters including a puppy.
While I see a little more growth in Max, both MCs have communication issues which tend to get on my nerves after awhile. I'm not there yet with this series, but I hope the MCs get a bit better with each subsequent book. I like what is already becoming a running joke between the MCs ( "stay in the car, Max"). While each full length book contains a full mystery, this author is slooooowly moving their relationship forward, but it is realistic for the time span of each book and the periods between each. For this sometimes impatient reader, I need to remember this. 😂 I wouldn't call this a slow burn, though. The MCs know they have chemistry. Murder and their own baggage (especially Max's) keep them from moving forward quicker.
I started reading this series with book 4 to see if I'd like the characters. I did and I do, and I'm really enjoying the series from the beginning. I am looking forward to rereading book 4 after I finish book 3. I know I'll enjoy it even more after reading the previous books.
I definitely recommend this series!
No spoilers here! 😀
This pushes all my buttons: continuing series with the same MCs, law enforcement, MCs over 25 (actually around 40), personal baggage, believable mystery without too much gore, great chemistry, hot sex (but not a lot in this series), fun secondary characters including a puppy.
While I see a little more growth in Max, both MCs have communication issues which tend to get on my nerves after awhile. I'm not there yet with this series, but I hope the MCs get a bit better with each subsequent book. I like what is already becoming a running joke between the MCs ( "stay in the car, Max"). While each full length book contains a full mystery, this author is slooooowly moving their relationship forward, but it is realistic for the time span of each book and the periods between each. For this sometimes impatient reader, I need to remember this. 😂 I wouldn't call this a slow burn, though. The MCs know they have chemistry. Murder and their own baggage (especially Max's) keep them from moving forward quicker.
I started reading this series with book 4 to see if I'd like the characters. I did and I do, and I'm really enjoying the series from the beginning. I am looking forward to rereading book 4 after I finish book 3. I know I'll enjoy it even more after reading the previous books.
I definitely recommend this series!
July 21, 2022
Since his arrival, Maxwell Thornton, the new doctor, now tagged as anti-social by most people in the town, seems to have brought a crime wave with him. The small, sleepy town of Rainy Dale, Texas, doesn’t feel so safe anymore.
Royce Callum, Maxwell’s lover and the town’s sheriff is trying to solve a murder where half of Rainy Dale’s population appears to be possible suspects. But his worries double when it seems that Maxwell may be another target of the killer.
In the second book of the Dr. Thornton Murder Mysteries series, the writer has maintained the cracking pace that began with ‘Strange Medicine.’ The protagonists are building a relationship, but Royce can’t help his uncertainties regarding Maxwell. Having come from the city where he was a leading surgeon, will he be willing to settle for Royce and a long-term relationship in Rainy Dale?
Meanwhile, there is more mayhem as the murderer eludes the best efforts of the town’s police department.
Once again, Wynne’s written a story that kept me entertained from start to finish. I can happily recommend it to anyone who’s after an entertaining read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review
Royce Callum, Maxwell’s lover and the town’s sheriff is trying to solve a murder where half of Rainy Dale’s population appears to be possible suspects. But his worries double when it seems that Maxwell may be another target of the killer.
In the second book of the Dr. Thornton Murder Mysteries series, the writer has maintained the cracking pace that began with ‘Strange Medicine.’ The protagonists are building a relationship, but Royce can’t help his uncertainties regarding Maxwell. Having come from the city where he was a leading surgeon, will he be willing to settle for Royce and a long-term relationship in Rainy Dale?
Meanwhile, there is more mayhem as the murderer eludes the best efforts of the town’s police department.
Once again, Wynne’s written a story that kept me entertained from start to finish. I can happily recommend it to anyone who’s after an entertaining read.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review
June 11, 2021
Really Enjoyed this Book
Another enjoyable book from the Dr Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries where the grumpy Maxwell is still struggling to fit in to the sleepy little town of Rainy Dale in Texas after the city life in LA. He is still not a people person and most of his patients still hate him but the closer he gets to the local sheriff, Royce, the more he finds himself smiling and trying not to antagonise his patients but Maxwell seems to attract murderers and when another attempt is made on his life he is once again sucked into Royce’s latest case.
Maxwell and Royce’s relationship is deepening but Maxwell is scared of his feelings, he has never known love even his parents were cold towards him and he doesn’t know how to show Royce that he isn’t planning to run back to LA. Royce is the only person who understands him, the only person who has ever understood him and even though he is difficult to live with Royce is willing to give it a go.
Although this is a murder mystery it is laced with humour and is a very entertaining read.
Another enjoyable book from the Dr Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries where the grumpy Maxwell is still struggling to fit in to the sleepy little town of Rainy Dale in Texas after the city life in LA. He is still not a people person and most of his patients still hate him but the closer he gets to the local sheriff, Royce, the more he finds himself smiling and trying not to antagonise his patients but Maxwell seems to attract murderers and when another attempt is made on his life he is once again sucked into Royce’s latest case.
Maxwell and Royce’s relationship is deepening but Maxwell is scared of his feelings, he has never known love even his parents were cold towards him and he doesn’t know how to show Royce that he isn’t planning to run back to LA. Royce is the only person who understands him, the only person who has ever understood him and even though he is difficult to live with Royce is willing to give it a go.
Although this is a murder mystery it is laced with humour and is a very entertaining read.
October 11, 2022
I hopped back in the saddle for another visit to Rainy Dale and dose of Maxwell and Royce. Things pick up right after the events of Strange Medicine with Royce trying to solve the murder of the mayor's father and Max still trying to figure out if Rainy Dale is right for him. One thing I really love about these books is that Ms. Wynne is giving Max and Royce's relationship time to grow. The attraction and chemistry is there but these two are very headstrong and god knows that Max is extremely ornery. There's no pushing them. They need to find their own way, even if it takes 3 or 4 books. Knowing Max, it could take way more than that.
I'm enjoying the mysteries and getting to know some of the people of Rainy Dale. Although it does seem like most of them are turning out to be criminals. I really like how just when we thought the murder was solved, the author threw in a big surprise. And of course, we got a tease of the next mystery, which I'm really excited about.
I'm enjoying the mysteries and getting to know some of the people of Rainy Dale. Although it does seem like most of them are turning out to be criminals. I really like how just when we thought the murder was solved, the author threw in a big surprise. And of course, we got a tease of the next mystery, which I'm really excited about.
December 10, 2022
A local Rainy Dale businessman is publicly murdered at his daughter’s birthday party but no one sees it happen. Meanwhile, Dr Maxwell Thornton continues to ruffle his patients’ feathers with his forthright advice and he worries he’ll disappoint Sheriff Royce Marshall if they take their relationship further. When Max is physically attacked, it’s hard to know who might be angry enough. This series is a gem, I love the developing relationship with Max and Royce as much as the mysteries. The emerging pattern is that the detecting is mainly police procedural work calmly carried out by Royce, rather than amateur detection by Max. These are complete stories but each one prefaces the murder in the next book. I’m really enjoying Matt Haynes’ audio narrations, I love the way he voices the characters.
February 28, 2021
This is the second murder mystery in this series, starring Dr. Thornton (Max) and Sheriff Royce. This time the murder victim is a very unpleasant man who had angered, defrauded, and cheated a lot of people, all of whom had plenty of motives to kill him. There are plenty of interesting characters who could have murdered him, and a lot of red herrings, which kept me on the edge of my seat. I didn't figure out who the real murderer was until the very end. During the course of the story, we get to see more of the development of Max and Royce's relationship, as they grow closer. At the end of the story there is an epilogue in which another murder occurs, which is actually the introduction to Book 3. A great murder-mystery series.
March 18, 2021
Absolutely awesome read from this author, Loved it, excellent plot, great characters, and so well written. Terrific story-line,
I really enjoy Max and how he grows to think about other people and their feelings. The town folk are so much fun and his office manager is down right perfect. The chemistry and rapport between Royce and Max is wonderful and that incredible connection motivates them both to be more together.
This is book two of the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries and really should be read in sequence. Lots of character development and the backstory of the main characters is given in book one.
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
I really enjoy Max and how he grows to think about other people and their feelings. The town folk are so much fun and his office manager is down right perfect. The chemistry and rapport between Royce and Max is wonderful and that incredible connection motivates them both to be more together.
This is book two of the Dr. Maxwell Thornton Murder Mysteries and really should be read in sequence. Lots of character development and the backstory of the main characters is given in book one.
I was gifted this book from the author and i freely give my honest opinion and review
July 4, 2021
Another great addition to this series. The case Royce worked on was interesting, and it kept me guessing until the end.
I'm really enjoying the deepening relationship between Maxwell and Royce. Maxwell is finding more depth to his feelings, even though his stoic and reserve nature makes it difficult to always share those feelings with Royce. Luckily, Royce's influence is giving him the courage he needs.
Once again, a little cliffhanger sets up the next book in the series, Arsenic and Old Lies.
I'm really enjoying the deepening relationship between Maxwell and Royce. Maxwell is finding more depth to his feelings, even though his stoic and reserve nature makes it difficult to always share those feelings with Royce. Luckily, Royce's influence is giving him the courage he needs.
Once again, a little cliffhanger sets up the next book in the series, Arsenic and Old Lies.
May 5, 2022
This is the second book in the series and I enjoyed it as much as the first. Dr. Maxwell and Sheriff Royce are dating and dancing around their feelings like gun shy lovers. At a party attended by them, a man is murdered. Once again the Doctor and Sheriff work to find the killer. Dr. Maxwell is emotionally stunted and has no filter so seems unlikeable but I find him endearing, brilliant but lacking empathy and harboring a dislike of people. The Sheriff is a kind, compassionate person who for some inexplicable reason cares for the Doctor. I really like these characters and their cases. I think S.C. has developed a great storyline and written cozy mystery books to bring it to life. I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.,
November 14, 2022
I love how the last book set the stage for the next murder mystery - great way to hook the reader :)
Maxwell is fast becoming one of my favourite characters! I love that while he is a plain speaker, he is willing to think before speaking, not just for Royce and Girdy, but because the town is slowly growing on him... though he does it mainly for Royce ;)
The latest murder is well done - lots of suspects with motives, a few red herrings and the suspect voted 'least likely to murder' is the unexpected culprit!
The romance between Maxwell and Royce has it's ups and downs, but is moving along. Maxwell tends to say the wrong things, but Royce has the patience of a saint and eventually gets that Maxwell is struggling with his emotions - baby steps.
Definitely want to read the next book!
Maxwell is fast becoming one of my favourite characters! I love that while he is a plain speaker, he is willing to think before speaking, not just for Royce and Girdy, but because the town is slowly growing on him... though he does it mainly for Royce ;)
The latest murder is well done - lots of suspects with motives, a few red herrings and the suspect voted 'least likely to murder' is the unexpected culprit!
The romance between Maxwell and Royce has it's ups and downs, but is moving along. Maxwell tends to say the wrong things, but Royce has the patience of a saint and eventually gets that Maxwell is struggling with his emotions - baby steps.
Definitely want to read the next book!
February 28, 2021
The continuation of Dr. Maxwell Thornton’s adventures. This is the second book of the series. The series should be read in order.
I really like the growth of Max. He is realizing he is not 100% right and is trying to correct his abrupt behavior. Still some great moments where his social awkwardness gets him in trouble. Royce is so patient and loving with him. I love their deepening connection.
The mystery is compelling. The story is believable and plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The romance is incorporated into the plot line seamlessly. It doesn’t take away from the mystery. Great book!!
I really like the growth of Max. He is realizing he is not 100% right and is trying to correct his abrupt behavior. Still some great moments where his social awkwardness gets him in trouble. Royce is so patient and loving with him. I love their deepening connection.
The mystery is compelling. The story is believable and plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing. The romance is incorporated into the plot line seamlessly. It doesn’t take away from the mystery. Great book!!
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