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Kate Palmer #3
A Body at the Tea Rooms
Meet Kate Palmer! A semi-retired nurse with a sweet tooth for cake and a talent for solving crimes.
Kate Palmer is most disappointed when renovations at her sister Angie’s new tea rooms are derailed after a body is discovered in the cellar. She was looking forward to clotted cream teas with a seaside view. Instead she has another murder mystery to solve…
If the village gossip is to be believed, the unfortunate man was connected to the wealthy Hedgefield family. Kate is reluctant to get caught up in the investigation but a curious card in the victim’s jacket pocket sparks her interest. Not to mention the ridiculous rumour Angie is somehow involved! Keen to clear her sister’s name so she can finally eat cake in the charming tea rooms, Kate teams up with handsome retired Detective ‘Woody’ Forrest to untangle the baffling case.
After quizzing the locals over copious cups of tea, Kate begins to realise the Hedgefields, who live in a grand mansion and own half the village, are not as perfect as they make out. They’re hiding a long-buried family secret and plenty of people have a grudge against them, including a number of their ex-employees.
But who could have murdered a member of Lower Tinworthy’s most enviable family? Was it the old gardener? The seemingly sweet cook? Or the bitter maid?
Just as she inches closer to the truth, Angie goes missing. Does amateur sleuth Kate have what it takes to get to the bottom of this extraordinary puzzle and save her sister at the same time?
Kate Palmer is most disappointed when renovations at her sister Angie’s new tea rooms are derailed after a body is discovered in the cellar. She was looking forward to clotted cream teas with a seaside view. Instead she has another murder mystery to solve…
If the village gossip is to be believed, the unfortunate man was connected to the wealthy Hedgefield family. Kate is reluctant to get caught up in the investigation but a curious card in the victim’s jacket pocket sparks her interest. Not to mention the ridiculous rumour Angie is somehow involved! Keen to clear her sister’s name so she can finally eat cake in the charming tea rooms, Kate teams up with handsome retired Detective ‘Woody’ Forrest to untangle the baffling case.
After quizzing the locals over copious cups of tea, Kate begins to realise the Hedgefields, who live in a grand mansion and own half the village, are not as perfect as they make out. They’re hiding a long-buried family secret and plenty of people have a grudge against them, including a number of their ex-employees.
But who could have murdered a member of Lower Tinworthy’s most enviable family? Was it the old gardener? The seemingly sweet cook? Or the bitter maid?
Just as she inches closer to the truth, Angie goes missing. Does amateur sleuth Kate have what it takes to get to the bottom of this extraordinary puzzle and save her sister at the same time?
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 5, 2021
1083 people are currently reading
202 people want to read
About the author
Dee MacDonald
16 books264 followersThe Runaway Wife is Dee’s first (published) novel but in fact she wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
October 23, 2021
EXCERPT: In the medical centre Kate went about her duties, without comment, as all around everyone voiced their theories about Locker Man's identity. News traveled fast in a small place like this.
'Your sister must have got the shock of her life when she found that body,' Sue said, with a delighted shiver, as she and Kate stood chatting to Denise at the reception desk later.
'Yes, she did,' Kate agreed.
'But how come Polly Lock never found it then?' Denise asked. 'She must have had that place a good ten years. And Larry had it before that. It's funny that Angie was the one to find it...'
Kate was aware that Angie could be a suspect in the minds of the villagers who had no idea how old the body was. After all, she was a newcomer to the village and not everyone knew her very well.
ABOUT 'A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS': Meet Kate Palmer! A semi-retired nurse with a sweet tooth for cake and a talent for solving crimes.
Kate Palmer is most disappointed when renovations at her sister Angie’s new tea rooms are derailed after a body is discovered in the cellar. She was looking forward to clotted cream teas with a seaside view. Instead she has another murder mystery to solve…
If the village gossip is to be believed, the unfortunate man was connected to the wealthy Hedgefield family. Kate is reluctant to get caught up in the investigation but a curious card in the victim’s jacket pocket sparks her interest. Not to mention the ridiculous rumour Angie is somehow involved! Keen to clear her sister’s name so she can finally eat cake in the charming tea rooms, Kate teams up with handsome retired Detective ‘Woody’ Forrest to untangle the baffling case.
After quizzing the locals over copious cups of tea, Kate begins to realise the Hedgefields, who live in a grand mansion and own half the village, are not as perfect as they make out. They’re hiding a long-buried family secret and plenty of people have a grudge against them, including a number of their ex-employees.
But who could have murdered a member of Lower Tinworthy’s most enviable family? Was it the old gardener? The seemingly sweet cook? Or the bitter maid?
Just as she inches closer to the truth, Angie goes missing. Does amateur sleuth Kate have what it takes to get to the bottom of this extraordinary puzzle and save her sister at the same time?
MY THOUGHTS: A Body at the Tea Rooms is the first book I have read by Dee MacDonald, but it's not the last. I enjoyed this so much I have already begun the next in this series, A Body at the Altar.
I am really enjoying reading books about older characters, and by older I mean not in their first flush of youth, who still have a zest for life and a penchant for 'sticking their noses in'. Kate Palmer is a fifty-nine year old semi-retired nurse, dubbed 'Cornwall's Miss Marple' after she has become involved in solving a series of murders. Her partner is Abraham Lincoln Forrest, mostly known as 'Woody' except when Kate is trying to make a point, a retired detective. Kate and her sixty-one year old sister Angie live in Lavender Cottage, a property they purchased together. Angie has been what is known as 'a free spirit', but seems to be setting down and is working on opening a café/bistro with Fergus, an Irishman she has become attached to.
It's in the cellar of the old building that Angie is renovating that a body is discovered, and Kate decides to get involved in the investigation as some of the locals are blaming Angie. No one knows whose the body is, but a DNA test provides some interesting information.
I love both the characters and the plot development in A Body at the Tea Rooms. Kate and Woody have an interesting relationship. While Woody is rather proud of Kate's investigative prowess, he is also concerned about the danger she puts herself in and from time to time tries, unsuccessfully, to rein in her endeavours and this does lead
to the occasional discord between them. I love Kate's thought processes, her penchant for making lists, and the numerous questions she inevitably comes up with. She and Angie row quite often, but love each other fiercely.
Although I guessed most of the twists and the eventual outcome by playing 'if I were the author, what would I plot?', I absolutely loved A Body at the Tea Rooms. It was great fun solving the murder, and I am enjoying getting to know the many and varied residents of Tinworthy who will, no doubt, appear in other stories to come.
Although A Body at the Tea Rooms is #3 in the Kate Palmer series, it is easily read as a stand-alone. Personally, I intend to get my hands on #s 1 and 2 in the series so I can discover how Kate and Woody meet and begin their relationship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#ABodyattheTeaRooms #NetGalley
I: #deemacdonald @bookouture
T: @DMacDonaldAuth @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #murdermystery
THE AUTHOR: Dee MacDonald wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of A Body at the Tea Rooms for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
'Your sister must have got the shock of her life when she found that body,' Sue said, with a delighted shiver, as she and Kate stood chatting to Denise at the reception desk later.
'Yes, she did,' Kate agreed.
'But how come Polly Lock never found it then?' Denise asked. 'She must have had that place a good ten years. And Larry had it before that. It's funny that Angie was the one to find it...'
Kate was aware that Angie could be a suspect in the minds of the villagers who had no idea how old the body was. After all, she was a newcomer to the village and not everyone knew her very well.
ABOUT 'A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS': Meet Kate Palmer! A semi-retired nurse with a sweet tooth for cake and a talent for solving crimes.
Kate Palmer is most disappointed when renovations at her sister Angie’s new tea rooms are derailed after a body is discovered in the cellar. She was looking forward to clotted cream teas with a seaside view. Instead she has another murder mystery to solve…
If the village gossip is to be believed, the unfortunate man was connected to the wealthy Hedgefield family. Kate is reluctant to get caught up in the investigation but a curious card in the victim’s jacket pocket sparks her interest. Not to mention the ridiculous rumour Angie is somehow involved! Keen to clear her sister’s name so she can finally eat cake in the charming tea rooms, Kate teams up with handsome retired Detective ‘Woody’ Forrest to untangle the baffling case.
After quizzing the locals over copious cups of tea, Kate begins to realise the Hedgefields, who live in a grand mansion and own half the village, are not as perfect as they make out. They’re hiding a long-buried family secret and plenty of people have a grudge against them, including a number of their ex-employees.
But who could have murdered a member of Lower Tinworthy’s most enviable family? Was it the old gardener? The seemingly sweet cook? Or the bitter maid?
Just as she inches closer to the truth, Angie goes missing. Does amateur sleuth Kate have what it takes to get to the bottom of this extraordinary puzzle and save her sister at the same time?
MY THOUGHTS: A Body at the Tea Rooms is the first book I have read by Dee MacDonald, but it's not the last. I enjoyed this so much I have already begun the next in this series, A Body at the Altar.
I am really enjoying reading books about older characters, and by older I mean not in their first flush of youth, who still have a zest for life and a penchant for 'sticking their noses in'. Kate Palmer is a fifty-nine year old semi-retired nurse, dubbed 'Cornwall's Miss Marple' after she has become involved in solving a series of murders. Her partner is Abraham Lincoln Forrest, mostly known as 'Woody' except when Kate is trying to make a point, a retired detective. Kate and her sixty-one year old sister Angie live in Lavender Cottage, a property they purchased together. Angie has been what is known as 'a free spirit', but seems to be setting down and is working on opening a café/bistro with Fergus, an Irishman she has become attached to.
It's in the cellar of the old building that Angie is renovating that a body is discovered, and Kate decides to get involved in the investigation as some of the locals are blaming Angie. No one knows whose the body is, but a DNA test provides some interesting information.
I love both the characters and the plot development in A Body at the Tea Rooms. Kate and Woody have an interesting relationship. While Woody is rather proud of Kate's investigative prowess, he is also concerned about the danger she puts herself in and from time to time tries, unsuccessfully, to rein in her endeavours and this does lead
to the occasional discord between them. I love Kate's thought processes, her penchant for making lists, and the numerous questions she inevitably comes up with. She and Angie row quite often, but love each other fiercely.
Although I guessed most of the twists and the eventual outcome by playing 'if I were the author, what would I plot?', I absolutely loved A Body at the Tea Rooms. It was great fun solving the murder, and I am enjoying getting to know the many and varied residents of Tinworthy who will, no doubt, appear in other stories to come.
Although A Body at the Tea Rooms is #3 in the Kate Palmer series, it is easily read as a stand-alone. Personally, I intend to get my hands on #s 1 and 2 in the series so I can discover how Kate and Woody meet and begin their relationship.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.4
#ABodyattheTeaRooms #NetGalley
I: #deemacdonald @bookouture
T: @DMacDonaldAuth @Bookouture
#contemporaryfiction #crime #familydrama #murdermystery
THE AUTHOR: Dee MacDonald wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Bookouture via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of A Body at the Tea Rooms for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
May 3, 2021
Oops! I somehow contrived to miss book two. It did not really matter though as I managed to piece together what had happened to the main characters before A Body at the Tea Rooms opens.
Kate seems destined to be involved in detective work as her sister finds a skeleton in the cellar of her new cafe. The rest of the book is mainly Kate running around finding out information from various interested parties. Kate and ex Inspector Forrest have a nice developing relationship. Angie also seems to have found someone although she may well move on at any time.
There is an interesting mystery involving DNA and related family members, which is fun, and the story is fast moving. A twist or two at the end turns the whole investigation on its head and a certain policeman leaves ignominiously. Serves him right! It was all very entertaining and definitely a good read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Kate seems destined to be involved in detective work as her sister finds a skeleton in the cellar of her new cafe. The rest of the book is mainly Kate running around finding out information from various interested parties. Kate and ex Inspector Forrest have a nice developing relationship. Angie also seems to have found someone although she may well move on at any time.
There is an interesting mystery involving DNA and related family members, which is fun, and the story is fast moving. A twist or two at the end turns the whole investigation on its head and a certain policeman leaves ignominiously. Serves him right! It was all very entertaining and definitely a good read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
May 4, 2021
7th book from this wonderful author and the 3rd of this delightful series and by that you can already tell I am a fan
The author has the ability to bring you into her wonderful world of ( in this series’ ) Cornwall, ageing characters with more than a ‘glint’ still in their eye and heinous murders, secrets and plots that fall into Kate’s path
Kate is this time trying to work who wthe unfortunate man found in the cellar of the renovated Tea Rooms her gin, man loving Sister Angie has found was and wether certain villagers know more than they are letting on and with the help of ‘Woody’ her ‘man friend’ she sets out to discover the truth and she meets a wide cast of colourful characters on her way including Ida ( a wonderful gossip ) who I adored and the ‘posh folk’ up the ‘posh house’ with their ‘fancy ways’
Another mystery is on the way to being solved but not before a dose of high drama and action threatens both Kate and Angie
These books are so unlike most I read and I love everything about them, the predictability of my enjoyment of them is never wrong and the only bad thing about them is when they end
Roll on Book 4
10/10
5 Stars
The author has the ability to bring you into her wonderful world of ( in this series’ ) Cornwall, ageing characters with more than a ‘glint’ still in their eye and heinous murders, secrets and plots that fall into Kate’s path
Kate is this time trying to work who wthe unfortunate man found in the cellar of the renovated Tea Rooms her gin, man loving Sister Angie has found was and wether certain villagers know more than they are letting on and with the help of ‘Woody’ her ‘man friend’ she sets out to discover the truth and she meets a wide cast of colourful characters on her way including Ida ( a wonderful gossip ) who I adored and the ‘posh folk’ up the ‘posh house’ with their ‘fancy ways’
Another mystery is on the way to being solved but not before a dose of high drama and action threatens both Kate and Angie
These books are so unlike most I read and I love everything about them, the predictability of my enjoyment of them is never wrong and the only bad thing about them is when they end
Roll on Book 4
10/10
5 Stars
May 8, 2021
A Body at the Tea Rooms is the second instalment in the Kate Palmer Cosy Mystery series, set in the fictional village of Lower Tinworthy, Cornwall. Semi-retired registered nurse Kate has ventured over the Atlantic to The Sunshine State of California accompanying her retired Detective boyfriend Woody Forrest on a trip to visit his family. They are on the return flight home when they serendipitously find that Aaron Hedgefield, an affluent Cornwall landowner, is on the same flight from Los Angeles and offers them a ride back to the village instead of them taking the four-hour bus trip they had psyched themselves up for. But no sooner than Kate reaches the door to Lavender Cottage she is approached by her flustered sister Angie. Angie had recently inherited a large sum of money unexpectedly from her ex-mother-in-law and decided to purchase The Locker Cafe, near the beach, with the plan to renovate it and rename it Tea Rooms; she also hoped to obtain a licence to open it as a bar in the evenings. However, during the gutting of the property, Angie had come upon an old cellar she didn't know even existed. There she had uncovered a skeleton behind a bricked-up wall. Kate and Woody begin their investigation almost immediately alongside the new Detective Inspector, Bill Robson and are informed that the remains had likely been there anywhere between 10 and 40 years. Interestingly there was some modern clothing found in the six feet by six feet gap in which the bones rested.
It soon becomes clear that there are connections to the Hedgefields up at the Tremarron Estate, so Kate and Woody are shrewd and decide to take Aaron up on his offer of dinner made on their journey from the airport back to the village. They hope that perhaps they will discover or learn something helpful that could break the case. Kate becomes like a dog with a bone, following leads as though her life depended on it and she has a suspect in mind but she's searching for evidence to back up her theory before revealing it to Woody. Can Kate use her sharp investigative skills to discover who the remains belong to, what exactly happened to them and the motive for the killing? This is compelling, gripping and compulsively readable cosy with plenty of high stakes action and dizzying drama throughout. The setting once again comes alive on the page; a quiet, quaint, chocolate box village on the coast rife with gossiping busybodies and community spirit. And how could I forget the characters? The story is peopled by quirky, nosy villagers with eccentricities in abundance who you really can't help but find likeable and affable. I love how easy and quick these books are to get through and with an intriguing mystery at its heart, loveable characters who almost feel like friends, some unexpected twists in the tale and a stunning rural setting this is a guaranteed great read. Highly recommended.
It soon becomes clear that there are connections to the Hedgefields up at the Tremarron Estate, so Kate and Woody are shrewd and decide to take Aaron up on his offer of dinner made on their journey from the airport back to the village. They hope that perhaps they will discover or learn something helpful that could break the case. Kate becomes like a dog with a bone, following leads as though her life depended on it and she has a suspect in mind but she's searching for evidence to back up her theory before revealing it to Woody. Can Kate use her sharp investigative skills to discover who the remains belong to, what exactly happened to them and the motive for the killing? This is compelling, gripping and compulsively readable cosy with plenty of high stakes action and dizzying drama throughout. The setting once again comes alive on the page; a quiet, quaint, chocolate box village on the coast rife with gossiping busybodies and community spirit. And how could I forget the characters? The story is peopled by quirky, nosy villagers with eccentricities in abundance who you really can't help but find likeable and affable. I love how easy and quick these books are to get through and with an intriguing mystery at its heart, loveable characters who almost feel like friends, some unexpected twists in the tale and a stunning rural setting this is a guaranteed great read. Highly recommended.
May 14, 2021
“Meet Kate Palmer! A semi-retired nurse with a sweet tooth for cake and a talent for solving crimes”
I don’t really know whether to be pleased with myself, or a little disappointed, as I had worked out some of what was going on in this explosive storyline from a little over half way through the book, ahead of both amateur sleuth, nurse Kate Palmer and her often reluctant assistant, retired DI, Woody Forrest. Although to be fair, I wasn’t quite certain about the identity of the true villain of the piece until all the facts were being laid out before Kate, the final twist in the tale was revealed, and just as she was almost about to make that fatal mistake which would mean that she couldn’t fulfil my strict fourth criteria for an all-round inclusive story, that of not being dead!
Not that anything about the storyline was in any way diminished by my knowing half an outcome; as with Kate, Woody, Angie and Fergal around the place and on the case, there is never a dull moment and the journey is always as eventful and unpredictable as the getting there. Oh! and of course, only Angie and Fergal could find a skeleton in their basement!
Kate seems to have the knack of always being in the right place at the wrong time, or the wrong place at the right time, depending on your perspective; and although this is the third case she has become embroiled in, in a very short space of time, you could quite happily jump into her life right here and now and know all you need to know about her past within a short while, as author Dee MacDonald does an awesome job of managing a full re-cap of all the pertinent facts, in a few concise lines, making these books excellent stand alone stories. Catching up with Kate, is like putting on a pair of comfy slippers and curling up in the chair, for a cozy night in front of the fire and a good ‘girlie’ chat, although beware! as Kate has a way of finding out all the information she needs to glean from you, without you even realising it – That must be her nurse’s ‘bedside manner’!
This well structured and developed, multi-layered storyline is textured, intense and rich in atmosphere. With it’s short punchy chapters, it moves along at a cracking pace, with the location and character changes being faultlessly fluid and seamless. Dee is an excellent storyteller and knows exactly where she is going with a storyline, skilfully and effortlessly leading me in that direction, almost without my realising it. There were plenty of twists and turns in this plot, with loads of red herrings planted along the way to trip up the unwary, lies and deception come as a second nature to some people, and just remember, don’t assume that anyone is who they say they are!
The assured, observational and descriptive narrative, together with some excellent conversational dialogue, offers a real sense of time and place, all set in a location that is one of my personal favourites, which adds a real depth and range to the story for me personally.
Each new case sees Dee weave a unique cast of suspects into the story and they really are designed to make me want to cringe, almost to the point where I would like them all to be guilty, but then that’s what makes these lovely mysteries so immersive. All the central characters are so beautifully defined and drawn, and all seem to be growing in stature and confidence each time I meet them. There is some excellent synergy between them, which makes them easy to relate to and invest in. Everything about the way Kate and Woody approach a case, is designed to put any potential suspects, of which there are always plenty, at ease and off their guard. Woody even begins referring to Kate as his ‘Miss Marple’, although I think that she has earned her stripes in her own right now, as her style is unique and she has made the role her own. The banter between them is natural and authentic. I felt at home in their company and sad to have to leave them behind until next time.
I tend to read this genre of story for: enjoyment, entertainment, escapism and emotion. A Kate Palmer adventure always comes good for me in each and every one of those criteria, and what’s a body or two between friends!
“The female of the species is more deadly than the male”
For more fun facts about this book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
I don’t really know whether to be pleased with myself, or a little disappointed, as I had worked out some of what was going on in this explosive storyline from a little over half way through the book, ahead of both amateur sleuth, nurse Kate Palmer and her often reluctant assistant, retired DI, Woody Forrest. Although to be fair, I wasn’t quite certain about the identity of the true villain of the piece until all the facts were being laid out before Kate, the final twist in the tale was revealed, and just as she was almost about to make that fatal mistake which would mean that she couldn’t fulfil my strict fourth criteria for an all-round inclusive story, that of not being dead!
Not that anything about the storyline was in any way diminished by my knowing half an outcome; as with Kate, Woody, Angie and Fergal around the place and on the case, there is never a dull moment and the journey is always as eventful and unpredictable as the getting there. Oh! and of course, only Angie and Fergal could find a skeleton in their basement!
Kate seems to have the knack of always being in the right place at the wrong time, or the wrong place at the right time, depending on your perspective; and although this is the third case she has become embroiled in, in a very short space of time, you could quite happily jump into her life right here and now and know all you need to know about her past within a short while, as author Dee MacDonald does an awesome job of managing a full re-cap of all the pertinent facts, in a few concise lines, making these books excellent stand alone stories. Catching up with Kate, is like putting on a pair of comfy slippers and curling up in the chair, for a cozy night in front of the fire and a good ‘girlie’ chat, although beware! as Kate has a way of finding out all the information she needs to glean from you, without you even realising it – That must be her nurse’s ‘bedside manner’!
This well structured and developed, multi-layered storyline is textured, intense and rich in atmosphere. With it’s short punchy chapters, it moves along at a cracking pace, with the location and character changes being faultlessly fluid and seamless. Dee is an excellent storyteller and knows exactly where she is going with a storyline, skilfully and effortlessly leading me in that direction, almost without my realising it. There were plenty of twists and turns in this plot, with loads of red herrings planted along the way to trip up the unwary, lies and deception come as a second nature to some people, and just remember, don’t assume that anyone is who they say they are!
The assured, observational and descriptive narrative, together with some excellent conversational dialogue, offers a real sense of time and place, all set in a location that is one of my personal favourites, which adds a real depth and range to the story for me personally.
Each new case sees Dee weave a unique cast of suspects into the story and they really are designed to make me want to cringe, almost to the point where I would like them all to be guilty, but then that’s what makes these lovely mysteries so immersive. All the central characters are so beautifully defined and drawn, and all seem to be growing in stature and confidence each time I meet them. There is some excellent synergy between them, which makes them easy to relate to and invest in. Everything about the way Kate and Woody approach a case, is designed to put any potential suspects, of which there are always plenty, at ease and off their guard. Woody even begins referring to Kate as his ‘Miss Marple’, although I think that she has earned her stripes in her own right now, as her style is unique and she has made the role her own. The banter between them is natural and authentic. I felt at home in their company and sad to have to leave them behind until next time.
I tend to read this genre of story for: enjoyment, entertainment, escapism and emotion. A Kate Palmer adventure always comes good for me in each and every one of those criteria, and what’s a body or two between friends!
“The female of the species is more deadly than the male”
For more fun facts about this book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
April 19, 2021
4.66 stars
A Body at the Tea Rooms was a delightful, fast paced book with a funny, dynamic characters. I have not read the previous books in the series and found that this did not impact my experience at all. This, in my opinion, attest to the author’s ability in create rounded, well developed characters. I felt like I knew Angie and Kate. I would have loved if a certain character’s loss and their resulting mental breakdown had been more explored, but the way it was handled served the plot well.
I loved the book’s atmosphere and felt like I got to know the Mansion and the village. In future novels, I would like to keep exploring Lower Tinworthy and everything the British small seaside village has to offer.
MacDonald played fair with her plotting and solution and I enjoyed myself while reading A Body at the Tea Room.
I love mysteries, even though I not always pick up Cozy Mysteries because they tend to be formulaic and a genre, I prefer watching than reading. For me to pick up a cozy mystery book, relies solely on the main character and I must admit, Kate Palmer was it for me. She is funny and witty and confident, and the fact that she is older and has had a successful career as a nurse added to her charm. I will be picking up other books in the series.
Disclaimer: I first read it as an ARC. In exchange for an honest review, I am thankful to Booktoure, NetGalley and Dee MacDonald for providing me with a copy of A Body at the Tea Rooms.
#ABodyattheTeaRooms #NetGalley
for my full review visit: https://frostawingsit.ca/2021/04/18/a...
A Body at the Tea Rooms was a delightful, fast paced book with a funny, dynamic characters. I have not read the previous books in the series and found that this did not impact my experience at all. This, in my opinion, attest to the author’s ability in create rounded, well developed characters. I felt like I knew Angie and Kate. I would have loved if a certain character’s loss and their resulting mental breakdown had been more explored, but the way it was handled served the plot well.
I loved the book’s atmosphere and felt like I got to know the Mansion and the village. In future novels, I would like to keep exploring Lower Tinworthy and everything the British small seaside village has to offer.
MacDonald played fair with her plotting and solution and I enjoyed myself while reading A Body at the Tea Room.
I love mysteries, even though I not always pick up Cozy Mysteries because they tend to be formulaic and a genre, I prefer watching than reading. For me to pick up a cozy mystery book, relies solely on the main character and I must admit, Kate Palmer was it for me. She is funny and witty and confident, and the fact that she is older and has had a successful career as a nurse added to her charm. I will be picking up other books in the series.
Disclaimer: I first read it as an ARC. In exchange for an honest review, I am thankful to Booktoure, NetGalley and Dee MacDonald for providing me with a copy of A Body at the Tea Rooms.
#ABodyattheTeaRooms #NetGalley
for my full review visit: https://frostawingsit.ca/2021/04/18/a...
December 22, 2021
3.5
I just love Ms. Dee MacDonald’s books. I am a huge fan!
Ms. MacDonald has a total of seven books; “A Body at the Tea Rooms” is the third one in the Kate Palmer series. The author has the ability to bring characters of that “certain age”, seniors, to life. She gives them excitement, spunk, love, romance, second chances and amusing adventures. She always makes me giggle.
In this cosy mystery series, Kate Palmer, the “wanna-be sleuth” works as a nurse at the local medical centre. Kate and her older sister, Angie, “the gin lover”, have pooled their finances and relocated to a quiet village in Cornwall. Well, maybe not so quiet as a body is found in the cellar of Angie’s newly purchased tea room. Kate and her friend, retired Detective Woody, are trying to identify the unfortunate man.
Since this is a small village, everyone knows everyone else and someone is hiding something. But who? I enjoyed the fast pace and the quirky characters. Ms. MacDonald had me guessing throughout. In this book, Kate is much more discreet and mature.
I totally enjoy Ms. MacDonald ‘s books and that all the main characters are in my age group (or older). Awesome!
I just love Ms. Dee MacDonald’s books. I am a huge fan!
Ms. MacDonald has a total of seven books; “A Body at the Tea Rooms” is the third one in the Kate Palmer series. The author has the ability to bring characters of that “certain age”, seniors, to life. She gives them excitement, spunk, love, romance, second chances and amusing adventures. She always makes me giggle.
In this cosy mystery series, Kate Palmer, the “wanna-be sleuth” works as a nurse at the local medical centre. Kate and her older sister, Angie, “the gin lover”, have pooled their finances and relocated to a quiet village in Cornwall. Well, maybe not so quiet as a body is found in the cellar of Angie’s newly purchased tea room. Kate and her friend, retired Detective Woody, are trying to identify the unfortunate man.
Since this is a small village, everyone knows everyone else and someone is hiding something. But who? I enjoyed the fast pace and the quirky characters. Ms. MacDonald had me guessing throughout. In this book, Kate is much more discreet and mature.
I totally enjoy Ms. MacDonald ‘s books and that all the main characters are in my age group (or older). Awesome!
May 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. Loved all the characters as they pertained to the book. The main character, Kate and her boyfriend, Woody made perfect sleuths. Her sister, Angie and her boyfriend Fergal were quite entertaining.
The story line and it's ending were perfect for this book. I enjoyed it so much I plan to read the first two books in the series. and look forward to the fourth installment. This was "A Totally Addictive English Murder Novel."
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
The story line and it's ending were perfect for this book. I enjoyed it so much I plan to read the first two books in the series. and look forward to the fourth installment. This was "A Totally Addictive English Murder Novel."
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC.
July 21, 2021
After dealing with a couple of difficult situations where murder was the name of the game, Kate Palmer is looking forward to taking it easy for a bit. In fact, she is rather excited that her sister Angie is renovating tea rooms due to a recent inheritance. Once all is done it should be a really relaxing environment of sipping tea and sharing gossip. However, plans are instantly stilted when the work begins and a body is found in the cellar. True to form, Kate is determined to solve this murder, much to the consternation of love interest Woody Forrest. As Woody is a rather newly retired Detective Inspector he is more than familiar with murder and the dangers of getting too close. Woody patiently assisted Kate in previous cases, but this time he puts his foot down and tells her to stay away.
Kate's interest only grows when someone she and Woody met on their flight home from California has an unusual connection to the case at hand. Having read the previous book in this series, A Body at Seaview Grange, I have been able to get to know Kate and her dogged nature to look for clues wherever she can and how Woody reluctantly helps her every time.
Not only do I thoroughly enjoy the quaint little village where they reside, the characters are truly endearing. I also enjoy the fact that Kate and Woody's relationship is growing stronger despite Kate's stubborn nature. The mystery element in this book, combined with the relevant danger, proves more than compelling, thus making A Body at the Tea Rooms another delightful read by Dee MacDonald.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Kate's interest only grows when someone she and Woody met on their flight home from California has an unusual connection to the case at hand. Having read the previous book in this series, A Body at Seaview Grange, I have been able to get to know Kate and her dogged nature to look for clues wherever she can and how Woody reluctantly helps her every time.
Not only do I thoroughly enjoy the quaint little village where they reside, the characters are truly endearing. I also enjoy the fact that Kate and Woody's relationship is growing stronger despite Kate's stubborn nature. The mystery element in this book, combined with the relevant danger, proves more than compelling, thus making A Body at the Tea Rooms another delightful read by Dee MacDonald.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
May 3, 2021
I am excited to be taking part in the #BooksOnTour #BlogTour for Dee MacDonald's cosy mystery A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS.
Although this is the third in the Kate Palmer series, this is my first read by Dee MacDonald. I was in the mood for a cosy mystery and Cornwall always does it for me. Having not read any of the previous books in the series, I didn't feel as though I had missed out on anything nor did it impact my experience at all. As the characters are few, I didn't feel lost coming into the series at Book 3. However what was refreshing was that the main characters are older and not the usual younger type who find themselves caught up in crime and mystery in these books.
Semi-retired nurse Kate Palmer moved to Cornwall a year ago and in that time she has several solved mysteries under her belt. She bought the quaint Lavender Cottage in which she lives with her sister Angie who, although being two years older, appears to be going through a second childhood I doubt she really ever left. And then there is Woody Forrest, recently retired Detective Inspector, who having assisted her on the previous cases is now looking forward to enjoying the quiet life with Kate. Also in the mix is Fergus who is somehow or other attached to Kate's sister Angie, though exactly how she isn't quite sure.
The story begins with Kate and Woody having returned from sunny California where she was introduced to Woody's family. On their return to Heathrow they met Aaron Hedgefield who was driving back to Cornwall and offered them a lift instead of taking the four hour coach trip. Having hit it off with Aaron, he invited them to the Tremarron estate sometime. But no sooner were they in the door when they were assailed by Angie who was in a whirlwind of excitement with what had just taken place in the village.
Having come into a surprise inheritance from her ex-mother-in-law, Angie bought the old Locker cafe intending to gut it out and re-open it as a Tea Rooms by day and a bar by night. But in the process of doing so, discovered an old disused cellar and uncovering skeletal remains behind a bricked up wall. So excited by the prospect that this could be an old pirate or smuggler that had somehow met his fate below the old building, Angie began making plans on how to cash in on the find.
Kate's interest was piqued and she couldn't help putting her recently discovered investigative skills to use to identify whose remains they indeed were. Despite Angie's excitement over it being historically linked to smuggling or the like, Woody received information that the body had more than likely been there between ten and forty years. Added to that was the more modern clothing found with the remains, so it was hardly likely to be one of Angie's smugglers.
But when it appears that the body may be linked to the Hedgefield family up at Tremarron, Kate and Woody decide to take Aaron up on his offer of dinner with them in the hope they might be able to discover something more about the family. In the meantime, Kate sets out to investigate what she has already discovered to try and prove what she now suspects...before sharing it with Woody.
But will her investigating get her into hot water and put not only hers but her sister's life at risk? Or will Kate uncover the truth once again? Village gossip, DNA, grand country house, gardeners, cook, an old boathouse and two untimely deaths around the time the remains were sealed behind the wall in the cellar...this book has it all!
A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS is a delightful cosy mystery that is a very easy read. So easy that I read it in one sitting when I went to bed...and didn't stop until I finished it just after 1am. There are no complexities or twisted tales here. Just like an afternoon in Midsomer on the Cornish coast.
Of course, like all good mysteries, there is a twist at the end which I didn't even anticipate I was in such a relaxed state with the book! But it was a good twist and certainly explained a lot bringing everything to a satisfying conclusion.
Although the third book in the series, A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS can be read perfectly well on its own...as I read it. Kate and Woody are extremely likeable, even if I could've throttled Angie at times, as they bounce ideas off each in an effort to solve the case.
An enjoyable read, A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS is perfect for fans of cosy reads and Agatha Christie.
I would like to thank #DeeMacDonald, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ABodyAtTheTeaRooms in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
Although this is the third in the Kate Palmer series, this is my first read by Dee MacDonald. I was in the mood for a cosy mystery and Cornwall always does it for me. Having not read any of the previous books in the series, I didn't feel as though I had missed out on anything nor did it impact my experience at all. As the characters are few, I didn't feel lost coming into the series at Book 3. However what was refreshing was that the main characters are older and not the usual younger type who find themselves caught up in crime and mystery in these books.
Semi-retired nurse Kate Palmer moved to Cornwall a year ago and in that time she has several solved mysteries under her belt. She bought the quaint Lavender Cottage in which she lives with her sister Angie who, although being two years older, appears to be going through a second childhood I doubt she really ever left. And then there is Woody Forrest, recently retired Detective Inspector, who having assisted her on the previous cases is now looking forward to enjoying the quiet life with Kate. Also in the mix is Fergus who is somehow or other attached to Kate's sister Angie, though exactly how she isn't quite sure.
The story begins with Kate and Woody having returned from sunny California where she was introduced to Woody's family. On their return to Heathrow they met Aaron Hedgefield who was driving back to Cornwall and offered them a lift instead of taking the four hour coach trip. Having hit it off with Aaron, he invited them to the Tremarron estate sometime. But no sooner were they in the door when they were assailed by Angie who was in a whirlwind of excitement with what had just taken place in the village.
Having come into a surprise inheritance from her ex-mother-in-law, Angie bought the old Locker cafe intending to gut it out and re-open it as a Tea Rooms by day and a bar by night. But in the process of doing so, discovered an old disused cellar and uncovering skeletal remains behind a bricked up wall. So excited by the prospect that this could be an old pirate or smuggler that had somehow met his fate below the old building, Angie began making plans on how to cash in on the find.
Kate's interest was piqued and she couldn't help putting her recently discovered investigative skills to use to identify whose remains they indeed were. Despite Angie's excitement over it being historically linked to smuggling or the like, Woody received information that the body had more than likely been there between ten and forty years. Added to that was the more modern clothing found with the remains, so it was hardly likely to be one of Angie's smugglers.
But when it appears that the body may be linked to the Hedgefield family up at Tremarron, Kate and Woody decide to take Aaron up on his offer of dinner with them in the hope they might be able to discover something more about the family. In the meantime, Kate sets out to investigate what she has already discovered to try and prove what she now suspects...before sharing it with Woody.
But will her investigating get her into hot water and put not only hers but her sister's life at risk? Or will Kate uncover the truth once again? Village gossip, DNA, grand country house, gardeners, cook, an old boathouse and two untimely deaths around the time the remains were sealed behind the wall in the cellar...this book has it all!
A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS is a delightful cosy mystery that is a very easy read. So easy that I read it in one sitting when I went to bed...and didn't stop until I finished it just after 1am. There are no complexities or twisted tales here. Just like an afternoon in Midsomer on the Cornish coast.
Of course, like all good mysteries, there is a twist at the end which I didn't even anticipate I was in such a relaxed state with the book! But it was a good twist and certainly explained a lot bringing everything to a satisfying conclusion.
Although the third book in the series, A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS can be read perfectly well on its own...as I read it. Kate and Woody are extremely likeable, even if I could've throttled Angie at times, as they bounce ideas off each in an effort to solve the case.
An enjoyable read, A BODY AT THE TEA ROOMS is perfect for fans of cosy reads and Agatha Christie.
I would like to thank #DeeMacDonald, #NetGalley and #Bookouture for an ARC of #ABodyAtTheTeaRooms in exchange for an honest review.
This review appears on my blog at https://stinathebookaholic.blogspot.com/.
May 25, 2021
Looking forward to my next read in the series.
October 21, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' by Dee MacDonald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Dee MacDonald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author and it is the third book in the 'Katie Palmer' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read the second book in the series 'A Body In Seaview Grange' which I enjoyed and would recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. I am also a fan of Dee's previous book 'A Body In Seaview Grange' and if this is half as good as that it is sure to be a great read. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis.' I am a huge fan of Agatha and Faith so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cornwall, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Cornwall on several occasions so am looking forward to see if I recognise anywhere.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist being Kate Palmer. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Well done Dee on another successful cosy mystery!!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly.
The plot really sucked me in and I really enjoyed curling up on the sofa and getting dragged into this cosy mystery. I was so absorbed I read it in one sitting. The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. Although it is part of a series it worked well as a standalone as any previous characters and relationships made were adequately explained in just the right amount of detail. This book is well constructed and traditional and what starts off as one murder becomes quite multi layered with all the characters backgrounds coming out. It was a very compelling read. I would never have guessed who did what and I was completely shocked by the mega twist. Congratulations Dee, it is getting harder and harder to surprise me and you did just that!!! I must admit I wasn't shocked in the second book in this series so it just goes to show how Dee has definitely improved even further, as although I wasn't completely shocked in the previous book it still held some surprises!! I'm looking forward to the next book in this addictive series.
I loved meeting all the characters again who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I really enjoyed the main characters of Kate, Woody and Angie and think they really worked well together as a team, well Kate and Woody but I also enjoyed Kate and Angie relationship develop and am looking forward to see where it leads in the next book. I am certainly looking forward to reading more Dee McDonald's books especially the first which I still haven't got around to and any further books in this series.
Congratulations Dee on another successful book, keep up the fantastic work and I look forward to meeting Dee, Woody, Angie and even Fergal again!!
Overall an intriguing and compelling cosy mystery that is perfect for Agatha Christie fans.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Cosy Mystery, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and anyone who enjoys a good mystery by the fire.
275 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Review for 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' by Dee MacDonald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Dee MacDonald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 10th May 2021.
This is the second book I have read by this author and it is the third book in the 'Katie Palmer' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read the second book in the series 'A Body In Seaview Grange' which I enjoyed and would recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. I am also a fan of Dee's previous book 'A Body In Seaview Grange' and if this is half as good as that it is sure to be a great read. It also stated in the synopsis that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Joy Ellis.' I am a huge fan of Agatha and Faith so am looking forward to see if it lives up to this. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 40 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cornwall, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Cornwall on several occasions so am looking forward to see if I recognise anywhere.
This book is written in third person perspective with the main protagonist being Kate Palmer. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Well done Dee on another successful cosy mystery!!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly.
The plot really sucked me in and I really enjoyed curling up on the sofa and getting dragged into this cosy mystery. I was so absorbed I read it in one sitting. The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. Although it is part of a series it worked well as a standalone as any previous characters and relationships made were adequately explained in just the right amount of detail. This book is well constructed and traditional and what starts off as one murder becomes quite multi layered with all the characters backgrounds coming out. It was a very compelling read. I would never have guessed who did what and I was completely shocked by the mega twist. Congratulations Dee, it is getting harder and harder to surprise me and you did just that!!! I must admit I wasn't shocked in the second book in this series so it just goes to show how Dee has definitely improved even further, as although I wasn't completely shocked in the previous book it still held some surprises!! I'm looking forward to the next book in this addictive series.
I loved meeting all the characters again who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. I really enjoyed the main characters of Kate, Woody and Angie and think they really worked well together as a team, well Kate and Woody but I also enjoyed Kate and Angie relationship develop and am looking forward to see where it leads in the next book. I am certainly looking forward to reading more Dee McDonald's books especially the first which I still haven't got around to and any further books in this series.
Congratulations Dee on another successful book, keep up the fantastic work and I look forward to meeting Dee, Woody, Angie and even Fergal again!!
Overall an intriguing and compelling cosy mystery that is perfect for Agatha Christie fans.
Genres covered in this book include Mystery, Thriller, Cosy Mystery, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and anyone who enjoys a good mystery by the fire.
275 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
April 14, 2021
This is the first time I've read this author. Few enough characters that you don't feel lost coming into the series at book 3. However, like most series, if you can start at book 1. I liked the older MC. I liked the town, and the MC's job made it reasonable that she would find out information. I found the mystery interesting and would recommend this book.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for my eARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 5, 2021
This is the first book I have read in this series, and it was perfectly fine to read on its own. Kate’s sister Angie and her boyfriend are renovating a tea room, and unfortunately find a body sealed behind the wall in the cellar … who is he, how did he get there.
DNA, grand country house, chauffeurs, gardeners, cook … we follow Kate (nurse at local clinic) chats with her patients and digs into the history of the town, together with her partner Woody Forrest (retired detective)
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a an early read in exchange for my honest opinion
DNA, grand country house, chauffeurs, gardeners, cook … we follow Kate (nurse at local clinic) chats with her patients and digs into the history of the town, together with her partner Woody Forrest (retired detective)
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a an early read in exchange for my honest opinion
May 13, 2021
Nurse/amateur sleuth Kate is back from her holiday with her boyfriend Woody when a body is unearthed in the cellar of her sister Angie's new tea room. Angie is hoping for a pirate or a smuggler, but the body turns out to be from only twenty years ago. Village gossip is rife, some even accusing Angie and her new beau Fergal. Kate can't resist looking into it.
This is the third in the Kate Palmer series but it's a self-contained mystery with no overlapping storylines or cliffhangers and easily read as a standalone.
What I like about this series is the characters each have their flaws, making them believable. I sometimes find cozy mystery sleuths are sometimes a little too perfect. Kate is still her determined self but of course that determination for the truth often gets her into trouble and this story was no exception.
Another favourite thing about this book is the setting of Cornwall. On the surface a quiet, charming tiny village, but underneath there's plenty of disreputable goings on and the whole place seems to run on gossip!
What I will say is I didn't think the overall mystery was as strong as in the previous books, but of course that's just my opinion.
A Body At The Tea Rooms is a solid cozy mystery with flawed, believable characters and a quaint setting. A definite must if you love this genre!
This is the third in the Kate Palmer series but it's a self-contained mystery with no overlapping storylines or cliffhangers and easily read as a standalone.
What I like about this series is the characters each have their flaws, making them believable. I sometimes find cozy mystery sleuths are sometimes a little too perfect. Kate is still her determined self but of course that determination for the truth often gets her into trouble and this story was no exception.
Another favourite thing about this book is the setting of Cornwall. On the surface a quiet, charming tiny village, but underneath there's plenty of disreputable goings on and the whole place seems to run on gossip!
What I will say is I didn't think the overall mystery was as strong as in the previous books, but of course that's just my opinion.
A Body At The Tea Rooms is a solid cozy mystery with flawed, believable characters and a quaint setting. A definite must if you love this genre!
October 11, 2021
This is a brilliant addition to this cosy mystery series featuring Kate Palmer, who just can’t resist investigating when a body is discovered in the cellar of the tea rooms that her sister is renovating. Despite the reiterated warnings from Woody, her retired police Detective ‘boyfriend’, she just has to endeavour to discover the truth. Using her contact with patients, Kate starts to uncover secrets from the past but can she stay safe this time or will Woody need to come to the rescue again?
This is a lovely cosy murder mystery with plenty of twists and turns, romance and intrigue. It involves Kate determinedly acting as sleuth, using her local contacts and ability to encourage gossip to help her uncover pertinent information to help solve the case. It is an enjoyable read, with great characters, some laugh out loud incidents and several suspense filled scenarios, too. The seaside area is a beautiful setting, complete with a whole range of village folk who are brought to life in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and will definitely be looking out for more stories in this series in future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
This is a lovely cosy murder mystery with plenty of twists and turns, romance and intrigue. It involves Kate determinedly acting as sleuth, using her local contacts and ability to encourage gossip to help her uncover pertinent information to help solve the case. It is an enjoyable read, with great characters, some laugh out loud incidents and several suspense filled scenarios, too. The seaside area is a beautiful setting, complete with a whole range of village folk who are brought to life in the story. I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and will definitely be looking out for more stories in this series in future.
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
April 4, 2021
The third book in the Kate Palmer series finds Kate with a skeleton on her hands. Her sister Angela has been busy renovating her coffee shop and in the process manages to unearth a skeleton. It isn't long before Kate is deep into the mystery, trying to find out what had happened. Now that her boyfriend Woody is retired from the police force, he seems a little more willing to help her out. It's still Kate that leads this investigation.
I do enjoy these gentle mysteries. Kate is a likeable character who just seems to have a knack for getting people to open up to her. That said, I had this one figured out long before Kate did and neither she or her ex-policeman boyfriend seem to be that quick on the uptake when it comes to some of the clues.
That doesn't really matter though. The mystery worked and I enjoyed Kates attempts to get to the bottom of everything. I'm not sure what murder she'll manage to stumble across next, but I've no doubt that this will be the last one that she finds herself in the middle of.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I do enjoy these gentle mysteries. Kate is a likeable character who just seems to have a knack for getting people to open up to her. That said, I had this one figured out long before Kate did and neither she or her ex-policeman boyfriend seem to be that quick on the uptake when it comes to some of the clues.
That doesn't really matter though. The mystery worked and I enjoyed Kates attempts to get to the bottom of everything. I'm not sure what murder she'll manage to stumble across next, but I've no doubt that this will be the last one that she finds herself in the middle of.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 4, 2021
Kate Palmer returns from spending Christmas in California with Woody to the news that a body has been discovered in the cellar at her sister Angie’s new tea rooms If the village gossip is to be believed, the unfortunate man was connected to the wealthy Hedgefield family. Kate is reluctant to get caught up in the investigation but a curious card in the victim’s jacket pocket sparks her interest. Not to mention the ridiculous rumour Angie is somehow involved! Kate teams up with handsome retired Detective ‘Woody’ Forrest to untangle the baffling case.
This is the third book in the series & once again a well written page turner. Kate is like a terrier once she gets a whiff of a clue & won’t let go, I love how she wheedles clues just by chatting. I also love her relationship with Woody & how it’s developed throughout the series. Her relationship with Angie often has me smiling at the bickering sisters who also love each other. There are twists & turns before the murder is uncovered, I did work out some of what had happened but not everything. I read the book in a couple of sittings & look forward to many more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the third book in the series & once again a well written page turner. Kate is like a terrier once she gets a whiff of a clue & won’t let go, I love how she wheedles clues just by chatting. I also love her relationship with Woody & how it’s developed throughout the series. Her relationship with Angie often has me smiling at the bickering sisters who also love each other. There are twists & turns before the murder is uncovered, I did work out some of what had happened but not everything. I read the book in a couple of sittings & look forward to many more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 25, 2021
Kate Palmer, semi retired RN and her beau Woody, a retired Detective are at it again. Kate's sister has bought property and is turning it into a Tea Room.While renovating, a body turns up in the cellar...and a mystery case begins. This is number 3 in the Kate Palmer series. For a reason I have yet to determine this one did not grab me like the other 2 books did. Perhaps I like more of the sister interaction while this book had less. So 4 stars instead of 5 on this one. That being said the ending did catch me by surprise.. Thanks to the author and Bookouture Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this book. It releases on May 10, 2021
March 26, 2021
A quick and easy read, likable characters with an interesting plot. Third in the series, but works as a stand alone. I thought I had it all solved until the twist at the end. Traditional cosy with no gratuitous sex or language, easy to recommend to teens through to elders.. Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for an advance copy.
July 9, 2025
This is a pretty good series.
May 18, 2021
This is the 3rd instalment in the Kate Palmer Mystery series by Dee MacDonald and features experienced nurse Kate who has relocated from West London to Cornwall along with her sister, Angie. The sisters live in gorgeous Lavender Cottage in the picturesque village of Lower Tinworthy, and they still hope for a relatively peaceful life.
In this instalment, Kate is looking forward to sampling the cream teas at Angie's new tearooms but is upset when the renovations are delayed. A dead body has been found in the cellar hidden in a wall and Kate is determined to solve the murder, against the judgement of love interest Woody Forrest.
Retired DI Woody is on hand and to figure out whodunnit Kate doggedly begins following leads with a suspect in mind as she searches for evidence to back up her speculation before divulging it to Woody, working alongside the new Detective Inspector, Bill Robson. This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring countryside locale. Divorcee Kate is an intrepid and caring character. Her fondness for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about and they make an effective sleuthing duo. This is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and a great cast of characters. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with a fulfilling conclusion, A Body at the Tea Rooms is the perfect novel to curl up with on chilly spring evenings.
A wonderfully fulfilling read with appealing characters, and very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this instalment, Kate is looking forward to sampling the cream teas at Angie's new tearooms but is upset when the renovations are delayed. A dead body has been found in the cellar hidden in a wall and Kate is determined to solve the murder, against the judgement of love interest Woody Forrest.
Retired DI Woody is on hand and to figure out whodunnit Kate doggedly begins following leads with a suspect in mind as she searches for evidence to back up her speculation before divulging it to Woody, working alongside the new Detective Inspector, Bill Robson. This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring countryside locale. Divorcee Kate is an intrepid and caring character. Her fondness for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about and they make an effective sleuthing duo. This is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and a great cast of characters. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with a fulfilling conclusion, A Body at the Tea Rooms is the perfect novel to curl up with on chilly spring evenings.
A wonderfully fulfilling read with appealing characters, and very highly recommended.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
April 11, 2021
Fans of the English village mystery will delight in this series by Dee MacDonald. Seeing this third entry in the Kate Palmer series available from Netgalley caused me to go back and read the other two books before diving into A Body at the Tearooms, which concerns a skeleton found in the restaurant/bar Kate's sister Angela is renovating. Of course, Kate is immediately drawn into trying to determine the dead man's identity and how he wound up buried in the cellar.
Of course, Kate is a busy body, a characteristic she is well situated for as a nurse whose practice lets her interact with all levels of village society. Complicating this investigation is a case of mistaken identity and two untimely deaths that occurred near the time of the original murder.
Kate is a fine heroine, and I appreciate that she is over 60 and is secure in her identity, unlike so many cozy main characters. The Cornwall setting itself is a recurring character and adds to the atmospherics.
These books are fun, quick reads--great for an afternoon of reading whist sipping a hot cup of tea.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
Of course, Kate is a busy body, a characteristic she is well situated for as a nurse whose practice lets her interact with all levels of village society. Complicating this investigation is a case of mistaken identity and two untimely deaths that occurred near the time of the original murder.
Kate is a fine heroine, and I appreciate that she is over 60 and is secure in her identity, unlike so many cozy main characters. The Cornwall setting itself is a recurring character and adds to the atmospherics.
These books are fun, quick reads--great for an afternoon of reading whist sipping a hot cup of tea.
Full Disclosure--NetGalley and the publisher provided me with a digital ARC of this book. This is my honest review.
May 9, 2021
Well, it's short. As much as I appreciate that the MC isn't young (a typical twenty- or thirty-something as is usual in cosy mysteries), this feels like it needs another go-round with an editor to both flesh it out and tidy it up. The characters aren't particularly robust and conversations are liberally peppered with exclamation marks, adverbs and italics. It feels like it needs one more draft to tighten it up.
And, although I've not spent time in Cornwall for several decades, it's a beautiful place and deserves more focus and description than it gets here.
Kate's sister Angie has uncovered a skeleton during renovations on a building she is hoping to convert to tea rooms. Kate is drawn into helping solve this mystery. Who is it, and how did they get there? And why does the skeleton have a credit card belonging to the local landowner's son? This being a contemporary mystery, DNA is requested and this is where it all fell apart for me because from this point on (24%) there's only one obvious and predictable result.
Not a series for me, I'm afraid.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
And, although I've not spent time in Cornwall for several decades, it's a beautiful place and deserves more focus and description than it gets here.
Kate's sister Angie has uncovered a skeleton during renovations on a building she is hoping to convert to tea rooms. Kate is drawn into helping solve this mystery. Who is it, and how did they get there? And why does the skeleton have a credit card belonging to the local landowner's son? This being a contemporary mystery, DNA is requested and this is where it all fell apart for me because from this point on (24%) there's only one obvious and predictable result.
Not a series for me, I'm afraid.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC to read and review. All opinions are strictly my own.
August 31, 2022
Dee Macdonald makes reading fun. He style is comfortable, a bit witty, and intriguing at the same time. I'm waiting for her next book due out in November in 2022. I've thoroughly enjoyed reading all of her books.
May 9, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "A Body at the Tea Rooms" in exchange for my honest review.
This is the 3rd book in the Kate Palmer series. We are once again treated to a visit with Kate Palmer, her boyfriend Woody Forrest, her sister Angie and her slightly dubious, yet charming Irish friend Fergal. Of course there is some mention of Barney the springer spaniel that Angie still continues to forget to walk. The sisters live in Lavender Cottage in Lower Tinworthy, a seaside village on the Cornish Atlantic coast.
Angie after inheriting some money for her former mother-in-law bought a café near the beach which is is converting into what she hopes will be a true money-maker. When a skeleton is found in a cupboard in the cellar of the café Angie starts dreaming of smugglers and pirates and how that will bring in the tourists. Kate and Woody have a feeling that it will prove not to be centuries old but Angie is positive it is.
At the beginning of the story Woody and Kate are just returning from a visit to the United States where Woody is from originally. At the luggage carousel at Heathrow they run into Aaron Hedgefield of Tremorron House. He insists on giving them a lift home instead of spending 4 hours on a bus. Soon they are invited to dinner at Tremorron and meet Aaron's wife Eve.
When DNA evidence points towards the Hedgefield family, they seem to want to become very good friends with Kate and Woody. Why are so many suspicious deaths linked to this family? People that had information they were planning to take to the police. Kate soon uncovers a secret pregnancy that produced twins. Adoption papers that show a link to the skeleton in Angie's cellar.
Of course, Kate cannot resist meddling, making lists and as usual nearly getting killed in the process. She's a delightful character that often forgets that she's a nurse and not a detective.
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of the series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next one.
This is the 3rd book in the Kate Palmer series. We are once again treated to a visit with Kate Palmer, her boyfriend Woody Forrest, her sister Angie and her slightly dubious, yet charming Irish friend Fergal. Of course there is some mention of Barney the springer spaniel that Angie still continues to forget to walk. The sisters live in Lavender Cottage in Lower Tinworthy, a seaside village on the Cornish Atlantic coast.
Angie after inheriting some money for her former mother-in-law bought a café near the beach which is is converting into what she hopes will be a true money-maker. When a skeleton is found in a cupboard in the cellar of the café Angie starts dreaming of smugglers and pirates and how that will bring in the tourists. Kate and Woody have a feeling that it will prove not to be centuries old but Angie is positive it is.
At the beginning of the story Woody and Kate are just returning from a visit to the United States where Woody is from originally. At the luggage carousel at Heathrow they run into Aaron Hedgefield of Tremorron House. He insists on giving them a lift home instead of spending 4 hours on a bus. Soon they are invited to dinner at Tremorron and meet Aaron's wife Eve.
When DNA evidence points towards the Hedgefield family, they seem to want to become very good friends with Kate and Woody. Why are so many suspicious deaths linked to this family? People that had information they were planning to take to the police. Kate soon uncovers a secret pregnancy that produced twins. Adoption papers that show a link to the skeleton in Angie's cellar.
Of course, Kate cannot resist meddling, making lists and as usual nearly getting killed in the process. She's a delightful character that often forgets that she's a nurse and not a detective.
I thoroughly enjoyed this installment of the series and I'm eagerly awaiting the next one.
May 14, 2021
A Body at the Tea Rooms by Dee MacDonald is a cozy mystery from England and I just love it. It takes place in Cornwall, in a small village and the two investigators are Kate Palmer, a 60ish nurse who is in semi-retirement in Lower Tinworthy, and Woody Forest who is her other half. Woody is a 62 year-old retired police detective that she met while they were both investigating earlier crimes. They are the kind of couple every 60ish person aspires to be a part of. They get along well, no one is in a hurry to marry, they have a healthy sex life, and they share common interests, although Woody worried. Kate also has a sister, about the same age, who drinks too much and has a very short attention span. That sister inherited some money and she and her current boyfriend are refurbishing an old tearoom, looking toward reopening it, and serving liquor at night. Kate has her doubts. Then, as the refurbishing is moving forward, the workers find a body behind a brick wall in the cellar. They are all hoping it is a pirate or something else historical, but alas, it's a man, about twenty. Been in the wall for about twenty years. Thus it begins.
I this love series, in part because of the ages of the protagonists. I love this particular book because of the family history research, which led Kate to a possible solution. As it turns out, she was wrong, but the research held. Murders this old are difficult to solve, at best. When no one has been reported missing, it is harder. There were clues along the way, and Kate even noticed them, but didn't put them together. The book is well-written and the mystery is a good one, although it was easy to put some of the clues together and get to a partial solution before Kate and Woody did. They are such good characters and MacDonald writes such a good story I can do nothing but recommend you read it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body at the Tea Rooms by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #abodyatthetearooms
I this love series, in part because of the ages of the protagonists. I love this particular book because of the family history research, which led Kate to a possible solution. As it turns out, she was wrong, but the research held. Murders this old are difficult to solve, at best. When no one has been reported missing, it is harder. There were clues along the way, and Kate even noticed them, but didn't put them together. The book is well-written and the mystery is a good one, although it was easy to put some of the clues together and get to a partial solution before Kate and Woody did. They are such good characters and MacDonald writes such a good story I can do nothing but recommend you read it.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body at the Tea Rooms by Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #abodyatthetearooms
May 25, 2021
Nurse and amateur sleuth Kate Palmer returns from holiday to find her sister's business plans in tatters following the discovery of a body in the premises. Kate can't resist another mystery to investigate even though it exasperates her lover, former police officer Woody Forrest.
A Body At The Tea Rooms is the third book to feature Kate Palmer as she adjusts to life in Cornwall with her sister Angie (who is rather keen on gin) and a developing relationship with Woody.
Angie's latest project is renovating some tea rooms with her feckless boyfriend Fergal. They find a skeleton behind a wall and initially hope it is a centuries old smuggler but then find it is only about 20 years old. Kate is convinced that the locals must know the identity and the DNA links the victim to a rich landowner. She embarks on a mission to trump the unhelpful police by uncovering the victim's name and his killer.
The plot develops at a medium pace as Kate collects evidence through speaking to a range of characters who were around 20 years earlier. There is a big twist and I did guess it but this made me feel proud of my own intuition rather than spoiling my enjoyment. The ending was quite dramatic but was in keeping with the tone of the rest of the book.
I think this was actually my favourite of the books so far. Angie has a purpose so is drinking less which makes her more likeable. Kate is naturally gregarious and gets on well with people, using her career as a nurse to chat to people without appearing nosy. Her inquisitiveness works well with her calming and caring demeanour to get others to reveal information. Her relationship with Woody continues to develop although he is frustrated by her involvement in another mystery.
A Body At The Tea Rooms is quite a traditional English murder mystery. The focus of the book is on the investigation and motives, with very little forensic detail. I would love to see this series televised!
A Body At The Tea Rooms is the third book to feature Kate Palmer as she adjusts to life in Cornwall with her sister Angie (who is rather keen on gin) and a developing relationship with Woody.
Angie's latest project is renovating some tea rooms with her feckless boyfriend Fergal. They find a skeleton behind a wall and initially hope it is a centuries old smuggler but then find it is only about 20 years old. Kate is convinced that the locals must know the identity and the DNA links the victim to a rich landowner. She embarks on a mission to trump the unhelpful police by uncovering the victim's name and his killer.
The plot develops at a medium pace as Kate collects evidence through speaking to a range of characters who were around 20 years earlier. There is a big twist and I did guess it but this made me feel proud of my own intuition rather than spoiling my enjoyment. The ending was quite dramatic but was in keeping with the tone of the rest of the book.
I think this was actually my favourite of the books so far. Angie has a purpose so is drinking less which makes her more likeable. Kate is naturally gregarious and gets on well with people, using her career as a nurse to chat to people without appearing nosy. Her inquisitiveness works well with her calming and caring demeanour to get others to reveal information. Her relationship with Woody continues to develop although he is frustrated by her involvement in another mystery.
A Body At The Tea Rooms is quite a traditional English murder mystery. The focus of the book is on the investigation and motives, with very little forensic detail. I would love to see this series televised!
May 11, 2021
This is the third and final book in the fabulous cozy mystery, Kate Palmer series. I loved every book it was a fantastic and I hate to see it come to an end.
Semi-retired nurse Kate Palmer is at it again and ready to solve a crime. When her sister Angie has almost completed the renovations of the Tea Rooms, she finds a dead body in the cellar. But luckily her sister Kate is a super sleuth and she is on the case. The villagers suspect Angie is the murderer and Kate is determined to clear her sister’s name. Kate teams up with the handsome Detective Woody Forrest who is retired but takes the case. As the finger pointing continues, there are so many intriguing details, with awesome twists and turns. I really like the detailed description of the characters, especially the relationship between Kate and Woody. The eccentric personalities of the villagers is so captivating that you are sure to quickly flip page after page. This “curl up on the sofa” mystery will keep your attention and reading quickly, unable to stop until you get to the end. As you flip the last page you are completely stunned as the culprit is revealed. The charming mystery is so entertaining, a true laugh out loud and enjoyable read.
Dee MacDonald, does a fantastic job of keeping the reader very engaged and yet not knowing whodunnit until the last page is turned. I loved this series, and I highly recommend it. It was such a fun cozy murder mystery. Thank you Dee MacDonald for such a wonderful series.
Semi-retired nurse Kate Palmer is at it again and ready to solve a crime. When her sister Angie has almost completed the renovations of the Tea Rooms, she finds a dead body in the cellar. But luckily her sister Kate is a super sleuth and she is on the case. The villagers suspect Angie is the murderer and Kate is determined to clear her sister’s name. Kate teams up with the handsome Detective Woody Forrest who is retired but takes the case. As the finger pointing continues, there are so many intriguing details, with awesome twists and turns. I really like the detailed description of the characters, especially the relationship between Kate and Woody. The eccentric personalities of the villagers is so captivating that you are sure to quickly flip page after page. This “curl up on the sofa” mystery will keep your attention and reading quickly, unable to stop until you get to the end. As you flip the last page you are completely stunned as the culprit is revealed. The charming mystery is so entertaining, a true laugh out loud and enjoyable read.
Dee MacDonald, does a fantastic job of keeping the reader very engaged and yet not knowing whodunnit until the last page is turned. I loved this series, and I highly recommend it. It was such a fun cozy murder mystery. Thank you Dee MacDonald for such a wonderful series.
April 29, 2021
Returning home after a wonderful holiday in America, practice nurse Kate Palmer and her partner retired detective Woody Forrest are glad to be back in their small Cornish village. Kate's sister Angie is full of news about her latest venture especially as a body has been discovered in the cellar of her soon to open tea rooms.
Wanting to help Angie while keen to continue honing her recently discovered investigative skills, Kate is soon deeply involved in identifying the body and trying to find out why he was in the area to start with. With a reluctant Woody's assistance and the local police chief discouraging her every move it soon becomes clear there is more going on than it seemed at first.
This is the third book in the Kate Palmer series and gets better with each installment. I found Angie very annoying in the first book but she has mellowed and is now a likeable and vital part of this series dynamic. Kate and Woody are good as a couple and bounce clues off each other thus helping the reader work out what's likely to happen.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is an easy to read, well written, cozy crime series with empathetic and believable protagonists.
Wanting to help Angie while keen to continue honing her recently discovered investigative skills, Kate is soon deeply involved in identifying the body and trying to find out why he was in the area to start with. With a reluctant Woody's assistance and the local police chief discouraging her every move it soon becomes clear there is more going on than it seemed at first.
This is the third book in the Kate Palmer series and gets better with each installment. I found Angie very annoying in the first book but she has mellowed and is now a likeable and vital part of this series dynamic. Kate and Woody are good as a couple and bounce clues off each other thus helping the reader work out what's likely to happen.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is an easy to read, well written, cozy crime series with empathetic and believable protagonists.
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