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Eve Mallow Mystery #6
Mystery at the Church
When a TV drama crew descends on sleepy Saxford St Peter, Eve Mallow joins the excited throng of extras in a funeral scene. But then a real body is found… and Eve gets a starring role as sleuth!
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous – and tempestuous – as she’s always imagined.
But then someone delivers a bouquet of poisonous flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she’s noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus’s body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it’s clear that someone’s out for the kill in real life.
Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they’re on the case, interrogating the suspects one by one. Is it the devastating diva whose relationship with Rufus was far from professional? The cameraman who caught Rufus doing something he shouldn’t? Or the groupie groundskeeper who’s in the background of every shot? One thing’s for sure – Eve must catch the killer before she stars in their next murderous production…
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous – and tempestuous – as she’s always imagined.
But then someone delivers a bouquet of poisonous flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she’s noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus’s body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it’s clear that someone’s out for the kill in real life.
Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they’re on the case, interrogating the suspects one by one. Is it the devastating diva whose relationship with Rufus was far from professional? The cameraman who caught Rufus doing something he shouldn’t? Or the groupie groundskeeper who’s in the background of every shot? One thing’s for sure – Eve must catch the killer before she stars in their next murderous production…
265 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 4, 2021
1162 people are currently reading
195 people want to read
About the author
Clare Chase
34 books315 followersClare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
August 9, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
There was a distasteful, meditative look in his eye as though she was a fly on his bowl of trifle and he was working out how best to swat her.
If a man had been unfaithful once, why would you assume it wasn’t his habit? Saskia struck her as someone who’d been on cloud nine and failed to look down.
His ego was like a cobweb: painstakingly constructed but easily destroyed.
My Review:
This tale had a slow and maddeningly meandering progression to the well-crafted head-scratcher of a mystery with oddly unlikable and prickly victims and a multitude of suspects as nearly everyone in the cast had cause to snuff out these vile players. The writing was lively, light with storylines that were entertaining and easy to follow.
Amongst a nest of entertainment professionals, it proved to be even more difficult to determine if reactions and statements were real or an act. The little village was abuzz with gossip and rumors, and Eve was still working to keep her relationship under the radar. The intrepid Eve and her lovable little Gus were on the case from the beginning being extras on the set where the murders occurred and Eve being the very one to find the first body. I wasn’t the only one having a hard time narrowing down the guilty party, Eve was flip-flopping as well, but luckily she had little Gus and the lovely Robin to talk things through.
There was a distasteful, meditative look in his eye as though she was a fly on his bowl of trifle and he was working out how best to swat her.
If a man had been unfaithful once, why would you assume it wasn’t his habit? Saskia struck her as someone who’d been on cloud nine and failed to look down.
His ego was like a cobweb: painstakingly constructed but easily destroyed.
My Review:
This tale had a slow and maddeningly meandering progression to the well-crafted head-scratcher of a mystery with oddly unlikable and prickly victims and a multitude of suspects as nearly everyone in the cast had cause to snuff out these vile players. The writing was lively, light with storylines that were entertaining and easy to follow.
Amongst a nest of entertainment professionals, it proved to be even more difficult to determine if reactions and statements were real or an act. The little village was abuzz with gossip and rumors, and Eve was still working to keep her relationship under the radar. The intrepid Eve and her lovable little Gus were on the case from the beginning being extras on the set where the murders occurred and Eve being the very one to find the first body. I wasn’t the only one having a hard time narrowing down the guilty party, Eve was flip-flopping as well, but luckily she had little Gus and the lovely Robin to talk things through.
August 3, 2021
Mystery at the Church is the sixth instalment in the Eve Mallow Mystery series set in Saxford St Peter, Suffolk. When a television film crew descend on the picture-perfect English village the residents are all recruited to play extras in the TV Mini-series entitled Last of the Lindens. Eve is purely there to deliver delicious baked goods to keep the actors energised, but that soon changes when Rufus Beaumont, the director, is found dead; luckily the body is discovered right when Eve is on one of her runs collecting the trays to take back to Monty’s teashop. She had just spoken to Rufus a few minutes earlier after someone had handed him a bunch of Wolfsbane flowers delivered to him specially. The poisonous blooms had been accompanied by a note, which Eve had stolen a cheeky glance at while the two were talking. Eve and close friend Robin Yardley begin to investigate alongside daschund Gus and they must ascertain whether the flowers had anything to do with Rufus’ untimely murder.
Eve and Robin work the case together but from separate angles as they cannot be seen in public together due to an ongoing situation. Will amateur sleuth Eve and former police detective Robin both be able to put their skills into action and prove that two heads are better than one? This is such a compelling, gripping and whimsical cosy mystery by an author who is at the top of her game and is superbly executed in terms of both the plot and cast of idiosyncratic characters. It's immersive and twisty with that small-town community feel where everyone knows each other’s business and gossip runs rife with the way the story is cleverly woven making it a pure unadulterated joy to read. It has every ingredient required for a brilliant cosy: humour, an engrossing mystery, engaging, quirky characters and plenty of surprises. A captivating, charming and thoroughly entertaining read and another solid addition to the series. Highly recommended.
Eve and Robin work the case together but from separate angles as they cannot be seen in public together due to an ongoing situation. Will amateur sleuth Eve and former police detective Robin both be able to put their skills into action and prove that two heads are better than one? This is such a compelling, gripping and whimsical cosy mystery by an author who is at the top of her game and is superbly executed in terms of both the plot and cast of idiosyncratic characters. It's immersive and twisty with that small-town community feel where everyone knows each other’s business and gossip runs rife with the way the story is cleverly woven making it a pure unadulterated joy to read. It has every ingredient required for a brilliant cosy: humour, an engrossing mystery, engaging, quirky characters and plenty of surprises. A captivating, charming and thoroughly entertaining read and another solid addition to the series. Highly recommended.
August 4, 2021
Eve Mallow, part-time obituary writer and also an amateur sleuth, is excited when her village, Saxford St. Peter, is chosen as the location of a television drama. Eve was excited to hang around the set, even if it is only to bring trays of yummy cupcakes from Monty's teashop, one of her favorite haunts. Eve soon finds herself delivering more than cupcakes. In fact, when the director, Rufus Beaumont, is discovered murdered, Eve happened to be there while picking up the teashop's trays. Eve had just spoken to Rufus, especially after someone delivered Wolfsbane flowers to him, and these flowers are deadly poisonous. The flowers were accompanied by a note, which Eve had a chance to glance at while talking to Rufus.
Is it any coincidence that Rufus is soon found dead? Eve and beloved dachshund Gus are on scene, along with Robin Yardley behind the scenes. Robin is Eve's good friend and likely romantic prospect, and they are going to get to the bottom of Rufus's murder. However, Robin has a situation going on that prevents him and Eve being seen together publicly, but Eve keeps him informed of the people she speaks to. Also, Robin has a history as a former police detective, so he also has inside informaton. Will what Eve learns and what Robin shares with her be enough for her to solve the murder?
As always, Eve knocks heads with Detective Inspector Palmer, who is getting pretty tired of the coincidences that keep Eve involved in solving murders. Nonetheless, with Eve preparing to write Rufus's obituary, she is free to talk to everyone who has been at the set while the rehearsals for the television set had been underway.
It turns out that Rufus had an agenda with at least one of his cast members, so that raises concerns, and there are other things that begin to come to light that prove that more than one person had major issues with Rufus. Will Eve be able to suss out the facts and find the killer before anyone else - including her - loses their life?
Mystery at the Church is a delightful cozy mystery story and a great additon to an enjoyable series. I love Eve, her friendships, her role as a parent to adult twin children, and her growing relationship with Robin. I also love her powers of deduction, even if she has a penchant for getting into trouble. I am very much looking for the next installment in this engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Is it any coincidence that Rufus is soon found dead? Eve and beloved dachshund Gus are on scene, along with Robin Yardley behind the scenes. Robin is Eve's good friend and likely romantic prospect, and they are going to get to the bottom of Rufus's murder. However, Robin has a situation going on that prevents him and Eve being seen together publicly, but Eve keeps him informed of the people she speaks to. Also, Robin has a history as a former police detective, so he also has inside informaton. Will what Eve learns and what Robin shares with her be enough for her to solve the murder?
As always, Eve knocks heads with Detective Inspector Palmer, who is getting pretty tired of the coincidences that keep Eve involved in solving murders. Nonetheless, with Eve preparing to write Rufus's obituary, she is free to talk to everyone who has been at the set while the rehearsals for the television set had been underway.
It turns out that Rufus had an agenda with at least one of his cast members, so that raises concerns, and there are other things that begin to come to light that prove that more than one person had major issues with Rufus. Will Eve be able to suss out the facts and find the killer before anyone else - including her - loses their life?
Mystery at the Church is a delightful cozy mystery story and a great additon to an enjoyable series. I love Eve, her friendships, her role as a parent to adult twin children, and her growing relationship with Robin. I also love her powers of deduction, even if she has a penchant for getting into trouble. I am very much looking for the next installment in this engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
August 17, 2021
Combining a clever plotline, an intrepid sleuth, and an engaging television industry backdrop, Mystery at the Church, the sixth book in Clare Chase’s Eve Mallow Mystery series, is both lively and quintessentially cozy. It is a book that grabs your attention with its dramatic prologue and won’t let go until the thrilling conclusion.
Eve Mallow is taking a break from her obituary writing assignments and her ongoing duties at Viv’s tearoom to join the other residents of Saxford St. Peter who are acting as extras in the television miniseries Last of the Lindens. The lavish production comes to a grinding halt when director Rufus Beaumont is found murdered on set in the vestry of All Souls Church. Given her personal interest in the case, Eve quickly secures permission from her publisher to write Rufus’s obituary. But, as she soon discovers, things are not exactly as they seem. Nearly everyone connected with the program – the producer, cast, crew, and even the caretaker of the onsite housing facility --- is a suspect, each with secrets both past and present that provide ample motive for murder. The tension escalates as one after another of the suspects is eliminated -- permanently. In the face of mounting danger, Eve must assemble the clues and expose the killer before she, too, faces her final curtain call.
This story is simply a delight. Ms. Chase effortlessly weaves clues and red herrings throughout the novel in way that keeps you guessing along with Eve. It is not often that I am surprised by “who done it,” but in this case, I found that, like Eve, I had dismissed this suspect prematurely. And the climactic scene kept me on the edge of my seat. Bravo for a job well done.
And bravo, too, for the warm and cozy atmosphere. Saxford St. Peter feels like home, and its residents like old friends. Eve Mallow is intelligent, quick witted, observant, and logical. She is also compassionate, loyal and kind – especially with her beloved dachshund, Gus. In short, she is the perfect amateur sleuth. Her surrounding cast, too, are intriguing and delightful. Her friend (and part-time boss) Viv is vivacious and charming. And Robin, the “gardener” with a secret past, has developed into a wonderful confidant for Eve, with more than a hint of romance on the horizon. Gossipy Moira and DS Greg Boles round out the cast of characters, each playing a small, but important, role.
The Eve Mallow series is one of my favorites, and Mystery at the Church may be the best one yet. From start to finish, it embodies the best that the cozy mystery genre has to offer. If you haven’t started this series yet, I do recommend beginning with the first book, Mystery on Hidden Lane. While each book can be read as a standalone, these stories build on each other. As for me, I am eagerly anticipating the next book in this marvelous series (which I’m told should be available in early 2022).
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at the Church from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
Eve Mallow is taking a break from her obituary writing assignments and her ongoing duties at Viv’s tearoom to join the other residents of Saxford St. Peter who are acting as extras in the television miniseries Last of the Lindens. The lavish production comes to a grinding halt when director Rufus Beaumont is found murdered on set in the vestry of All Souls Church. Given her personal interest in the case, Eve quickly secures permission from her publisher to write Rufus’s obituary. But, as she soon discovers, things are not exactly as they seem. Nearly everyone connected with the program – the producer, cast, crew, and even the caretaker of the onsite housing facility --- is a suspect, each with secrets both past and present that provide ample motive for murder. The tension escalates as one after another of the suspects is eliminated -- permanently. In the face of mounting danger, Eve must assemble the clues and expose the killer before she, too, faces her final curtain call.
This story is simply a delight. Ms. Chase effortlessly weaves clues and red herrings throughout the novel in way that keeps you guessing along with Eve. It is not often that I am surprised by “who done it,” but in this case, I found that, like Eve, I had dismissed this suspect prematurely. And the climactic scene kept me on the edge of my seat. Bravo for a job well done.
And bravo, too, for the warm and cozy atmosphere. Saxford St. Peter feels like home, and its residents like old friends. Eve Mallow is intelligent, quick witted, observant, and logical. She is also compassionate, loyal and kind – especially with her beloved dachshund, Gus. In short, she is the perfect amateur sleuth. Her surrounding cast, too, are intriguing and delightful. Her friend (and part-time boss) Viv is vivacious and charming. And Robin, the “gardener” with a secret past, has developed into a wonderful confidant for Eve, with more than a hint of romance on the horizon. Gossipy Moira and DS Greg Boles round out the cast of characters, each playing a small, but important, role.
The Eve Mallow series is one of my favorites, and Mystery at the Church may be the best one yet. From start to finish, it embodies the best that the cozy mystery genre has to offer. If you haven’t started this series yet, I do recommend beginning with the first book, Mystery on Hidden Lane. While each book can be read as a standalone, these stories build on each other. As for me, I am eagerly anticipating the next book in this marvelous series (which I’m told should be available in early 2022).
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at the Church from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
August 7, 2021
I am delighted to be catching up with the latest happenings in this charming cozy mystery series. It was great to be back with Eve and her beloved dachshund Gus who live in the sweet little village of Saxford St Peter.
In this sixth instalment, Eve is excited when Saxford St Peter is to be the chosen location for a drama series. Celebrities and locals alike will be in 'Last of the Lindens' in a funeral scene being filmed at the church. Eve is also there to deliver baked goodies, including orange and raspberry cupcakes. Rufus Beaumont, the director, receives a bunch of purple flowers in his trailer and tries to find out who sent them. The next day Eve and Viv are acting as extras in the funeral wake with their sausage rolls, sandwiches and fake wine for the takes. They are chatting to a man they met the previous day, whilst Rufus has words with the film crew. Later Rufus is found dead and Eve is on the case.
Amateur sleuth, tea-shop employee and obituary writer, Eve just keeps getting better and better with each story. I find her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing, which is a credit to Clare Chase's writing skills, and I feel as though I am meeting up with an old friend when I'm reading a new Eve Mallow mystery. Her dog, Gus is also a favourite who has captured my heart. The author's superb and varied characterisation is fantastic, and in this brilliant story, there is certainly no shortage of suspects, as Eve realises.
Mystery at the Church has a well-thought-out, compelling plot, and enough twists to keep the most demanding armchair sleuth satisfied. Clare Chase writes with such flair and an easy style and this was a story that held my attention well, loving my escape into Eve's world of diabolical deeds. Whilst I recommend reading the books in order, you don’t need to be familiar with the characters to fully enjoy these mysteries. I am eagerly anticipating what Clare Chase has in store for Eve Mallow next, in book seven, Mystery at Magpie Lodge.
Disclosure : Thank you to Bookouture for providing a digital ARC of Mystery at the Church by Clare Chase via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
In this sixth instalment, Eve is excited when Saxford St Peter is to be the chosen location for a drama series. Celebrities and locals alike will be in 'Last of the Lindens' in a funeral scene being filmed at the church. Eve is also there to deliver baked goodies, including orange and raspberry cupcakes. Rufus Beaumont, the director, receives a bunch of purple flowers in his trailer and tries to find out who sent them. The next day Eve and Viv are acting as extras in the funeral wake with their sausage rolls, sandwiches and fake wine for the takes. They are chatting to a man they met the previous day, whilst Rufus has words with the film crew. Later Rufus is found dead and Eve is on the case.
Amateur sleuth, tea-shop employee and obituary writer, Eve just keeps getting better and better with each story. I find her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing, which is a credit to Clare Chase's writing skills, and I feel as though I am meeting up with an old friend when I'm reading a new Eve Mallow mystery. Her dog, Gus is also a favourite who has captured my heart. The author's superb and varied characterisation is fantastic, and in this brilliant story, there is certainly no shortage of suspects, as Eve realises.
Mystery at the Church has a well-thought-out, compelling plot, and enough twists to keep the most demanding armchair sleuth satisfied. Clare Chase writes with such flair and an easy style and this was a story that held my attention well, loving my escape into Eve's world of diabolical deeds. Whilst I recommend reading the books in order, you don’t need to be familiar with the characters to fully enjoy these mysteries. I am eagerly anticipating what Clare Chase has in store for Eve Mallow next, in book seven, Mystery at Magpie Lodge.
Disclosure : Thank you to Bookouture for providing a digital ARC of Mystery at the Church by Clare Chase via Netgalley for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 6, 2021
Eve Mallow, obituary writer and amateur sleuth is so excited when her village, Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. Eve is happy to take on odd jobs, like delivering cupcakes because it allows her the opportunity to hang around the set as much as possible. Being the people watcher that she is, she realizes that television stars are as glamorous as she imagined. But when a bouquet of poisonous flowers is delivered to the director, Rufus Beaumont, soon after, Rufus’s body is found and Eve is on the case. But when Detective Inspector Palmer arrives on scene, he isn’t surprised and isn’t happy, that once again Eve is in the middle of it all. She finds herself interrogating suspects, and trying to find the culprit, before she becomes the next victim. I thoroughly enjoy this series. I absolutely love that Eve’s side kick is Gus, the dachshund. It really personalizes this story. I love this series and I look so forward to its continuation. I highly recommend this book.
Thank you Clare Chase for such a wonderful continuation to a fabulous series. I loved the plot twists so much that it definitely kept me guessing. The characters were relatable and the storyline was fantastic.
Thank you Clare Chase for such a wonderful continuation to a fabulous series. I loved the plot twists so much that it definitely kept me guessing. The characters were relatable and the storyline was fantastic.
July 16, 2021
It is full blown excitement to have a TV crew filming in the small sleepy village of Saxford St Peter. Celebrities abound and
the village people are also taken in as extras for various scenes. Life is very exciting and full at the moment. It takes a turn
when one of the celebrities are killed and the whole film crew and village are under scrutiny.
Eve and her daschund Gus both keen detectives are able to find out much more than the detectives on the case. Eve has been on the
TV site, has befriended many of those working there and her keen skills are much better than the oafish Detective Palmer whom we
have seen in action before.
Altogether a well put together cozy mystery murder. Bodies, suspicion galore, lots of suspects and a winding trail.
A good stand alone in the series.
the village people are also taken in as extras for various scenes. Life is very exciting and full at the moment. It takes a turn
when one of the celebrities are killed and the whole film crew and village are under scrutiny.
Eve and her daschund Gus both keen detectives are able to find out much more than the detectives on the case. Eve has been on the
TV site, has befriended many of those working there and her keen skills are much better than the oafish Detective Palmer whom we
have seen in action before.
Altogether a well put together cozy mystery murder. Bodies, suspicion galore, lots of suspects and a winding trail.
A good stand alone in the series.
July 30, 2021
This is my second Eve Mallow book and it was nice to see Gus again!
I like stories that feature the ins and outs of the film industry so this was interesting. The plot did twist and turn with a great number of red herrings strewn across the path.
A good read.
I like stories that feature the ins and outs of the film industry so this was interesting. The plot did twist and turn with a great number of red herrings strewn across the path.
A good read.
January 6, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Mystery At The Church' by Clare Chase.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Clare Chase, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 4th August 2021.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the sixth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Mystery At The Old Mill ' which is the fourth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series and 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' which is the fifth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely unputdownable page-turner, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Agatha Christie and Betty Rowlands.'. I am a huge fan of Faith Martin and Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Clare Chase and if this is half as good as 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' and 'Mystery At The Old Mill' it is sure to be a page turning read. 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 a prologue and 43 chapters. The chapters are short 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 a fictional town based in Suffolk, 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 Suffolk on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Clare has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Eve Mallow. 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 on anything.
This book is very well written making it a lovely smooth read. The atmosphere and vivid descriptions are perfect for the plot and helps give that cosy feeling while reading. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly. I'm looking forward to reading more of Clare Chase's books including any prior to this one. This book can easily be read as a standalone and anything that has happened prior is described in just the right amount of detail.
The storyline itself is a lovely cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me with the amount of crime books I read but you definitely managed it. I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. The book was filled with crime, mystery, murder, red herrings and some suspense. I also believe that Clare portrayed village life perfectly and the community within them.
The characters were all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I love Eve and of course Gus and I really enjoyed meeting them again along with Robin and Viv. Eve felt to me to be slightly eccentric which I enjoyed the most about her. I also enjoyed meeting all the new characters who all had such strong personalities although I could not stand the way several of the male actors were towards women.
Congratulations to Clare Chase on another successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. Welcome to my favourite author list and I cannot wait to see what Eve and Gus get up to next!!!
Overall an absolutely compelling and page turning cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Suspense and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of cosy mysteries, Faith Martin and Agatha Christie.
259 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on Kindle Unlimited 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.
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Review for 'Mystery At The Church' by Clare Chase.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Clare Chase, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 4th August 2021.
This is the third book I have read by this author. It is also the sixth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Mystery At The Old Mill ' which is the fourth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series and 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' which is the fifth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely unputdownable page-turner, perfect for fans of Faith Martin, Agatha Christie and Betty Rowlands.'. I am a huge fan of Faith Martin and Agatha Christie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Clare Chase and if this is half as good as 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' and 'Mystery At The Old Mill' it is sure to be a page turning read. 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 a prologue and 43 chapters. The chapters are short 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 a fictional town based in Suffolk, 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 Suffolk on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Clare has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Eve Mallow. 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 on anything.
This book is very well written making it a lovely smooth read. The atmosphere and vivid descriptions are perfect for the plot and helps give that cosy feeling while reading. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly. I'm looking forward to reading more of Clare Chase's books including any prior to this one. This book can easily be read as a standalone and anything that has happened prior is described in just the right amount of detail.
The storyline itself is a lovely cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me with the amount of crime books I read but you definitely managed it. I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. The book was filled with crime, mystery, murder, red herrings and some suspense. I also believe that Clare portrayed village life perfectly and the community within them.
The characters were all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I love Eve and of course Gus and I really enjoyed meeting them again along with Robin and Viv. Eve felt to me to be slightly eccentric which I enjoyed the most about her. I also enjoyed meeting all the new characters who all had such strong personalities although I could not stand the way several of the male actors were towards women.
Congratulations to Clare Chase on another successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. Welcome to my favourite author list and I cannot wait to see what Eve and Gus get up to next!!!
Overall an absolutely compelling and page turning cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Suspense and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of cosy mysteries, Faith Martin and Agatha Christie.
259 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon or free on Kindle Unlimited 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.
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August 6, 2021
Eve finds herself immersed in yet another murder.
As an extra on the set of Rufus and Isla's new production, Eve and her neighbors have an up close seat to the gossip, tense relationships and extra marital affair. Their village is practically bursting with gossip - especially since homegrown Dot has a supporting role. Until Rufus is found dead in the church, splayed out for his last photo op.
Eve is hired to write his obituary - granting her a reason to research not only Rufus' life but also discover motive and the murderer.
Trying to keep Gus out of the weeds, her relationship with Roger quiet, and stay out of the DI's way, Eve finds herself juggling a great deal of information.
Humor, realistic characters, small village life - very enjoyable read.
As an extra on the set of Rufus and Isla's new production, Eve and her neighbors have an up close seat to the gossip, tense relationships and extra marital affair. Their village is practically bursting with gossip - especially since homegrown Dot has a supporting role. Until Rufus is found dead in the church, splayed out for his last photo op.
Eve is hired to write his obituary - granting her a reason to research not only Rufus' life but also discover motive and the murderer.
Trying to keep Gus out of the weeds, her relationship with Roger quiet, and stay out of the DI's way, Eve finds herself juggling a great deal of information.
Humor, realistic characters, small village life - very enjoyable read.
August 4, 2021
Wow this author raises the bar with every book. Each one of hers I read I am convinced is the best one yet. Packed with twists, this is a wonderful mystery. Don't miss this one.
July 11, 2021
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "Mystery at the Church" in exchange for my honest review.
This is the 6th book in the Eve Mallow mystery series. Eve is an obituary writer and she works part-time in her friend Viv's teashop called Monty's to supplement her income. The setting is the village of Saxford St Peter where everyone seems to know everyone else's business. My favourite character is Gus the Dachshund who manages to save Eve's life on more than one occasion.
Eve seems to attract trouble. This time in the form of actors and production staff dying on the set of a TV series being filmed in the Village. Most of the Village folk have parts as extras. Viv and Eve are also catering the event with cakes from her teashop.
When one of the actors receives a bouquet of Wolfsbane, Eve is alert to possible trouble - which arrives in the form of a body found in the Church Vestry. At first suspecting a heart attack, they soon find that it was murder. DI Nigel Palmer is once again not happy to cross paths with Eve.
Eve's boyfriend Robin Yardley is still masquerading as a gardener. Only DS Greg Boles is aware that he used to be Robert Kelly a DI in London who exposed high level police corruption, thereby putting him in danger. Greg is married to Robin's cousin and helped him to resettle in the Village.
As more bodies are found, Eve's life is in danger when someone mentions to the killer that Eve is starting to put the pieces together.
Moira is noticing the number of walks that Eve takes with Gus and thinks she's meeting up with a man. Quick thinking Viv comes up with a hobby for Eve - owl watching - as the reason for all those walks.
This is the 6th book in the Eve Mallow mystery series. Eve is an obituary writer and she works part-time in her friend Viv's teashop called Monty's to supplement her income. The setting is the village of Saxford St Peter where everyone seems to know everyone else's business. My favourite character is Gus the Dachshund who manages to save Eve's life on more than one occasion.
Eve seems to attract trouble. This time in the form of actors and production staff dying on the set of a TV series being filmed in the Village. Most of the Village folk have parts as extras. Viv and Eve are also catering the event with cakes from her teashop.
When one of the actors receives a bouquet of Wolfsbane, Eve is alert to possible trouble - which arrives in the form of a body found in the Church Vestry. At first suspecting a heart attack, they soon find that it was murder. DI Nigel Palmer is once again not happy to cross paths with Eve.
Eve's boyfriend Robin Yardley is still masquerading as a gardener. Only DS Greg Boles is aware that he used to be Robert Kelly a DI in London who exposed high level police corruption, thereby putting him in danger. Greg is married to Robin's cousin and helped him to resettle in the Village.
As more bodies are found, Eve's life is in danger when someone mentions to the killer that Eve is starting to put the pieces together.
Moira is noticing the number of walks that Eve takes with Gus and thinks she's meeting up with a man. Quick thinking Viv comes up with a hobby for Eve - owl watching - as the reason for all those walks.
July 26, 2021
Clare Chase invites her readers back deep into the beautiful Suffolk countryside with book number 6 in the Eve Mallow series. This time around it’s lights, camera,action as residents from the village of Saxford St Peter are joining the set of the tv mini series “Last of the Lindens” as extras. Filming is taking place on the Watcher’s Wood site and the place is abuzz with excitement. Directed by Rufus Beaumont, member of the Beaumont acting dynasty and produced by his long term business partner Isla Quinn, the tv cast boasts well known BAFTA winning actress Dot Hampshire and rising star Saskia Thomas. Despite being in the presence of celebrities it’s really only shopkeeper and local gossip Moira (surprise, surprise) who appears starstruck whilst Eve, part time obituary writer/amateur super sleuth and Viv, owner of Monty’s tea shop are taking it all in their stride. During breaks in filming, dishing out cakes courtesy of said tea shop, the naturally curious Eve is provided with ample opportunity to scrutinise each cast and crew member to her hearts content. Is this group of luvvies one big happy family or are there petty jealousies, bruised egos and long held rivalries simmering away behind the scenes? With Eve in the thick of the action you can rely on her to draw the right conclusions! This woman does not miss a trick, her inbuilt danger detecting radar triggered when Rufus is discovered to be the recipient of some poisonous flowers, precipitating a tragic turn of events that once again sees Eve crossing swords with her nemesis DI Palmer. She’s the (wolfs)bane of his life but we wouldn’t want her any other way!
So if you’re a newcomer to the world of Eve Mallow then you’re in for a treat. If like me you’ve been a fan from day one then how reassuring and exciting it is to be back on familiar territory. This popular genre of crime fiction is awash with memorable super sleuths and Eve Mallow earns her place up there with the best of them. The success and appeal of this series hinges on the characters who live and work in this small but perfectly formed village, their comings and goings the source of much amusement and entertainment, complimenting the crime element without ever detracting from the main business in hand.
Kickstarting Eve’s latest round of sleuthing with the discovery of a dead body draws the reader immediately into the heart of another nigh on impossible to solve mystery. Clearly I’m nowhere near as talented as Ms Mallow because six books in and I’ve yet to string all the clues together and uncover the culprit! Clare Chase manages to tie me up in knots EVERY single time! With dachshund Gus acting as a silent witness to his mistress’s conversational style interrogation tactics, as well as a sounding board for Eve’s developing theories as usual she is spoiled for choice when it comes to potential suspects. It quickly transpires thespians are an insecure bunch thanks to the fickle nature of the industry where you can be feted and adored one moment and relegated to minor roles the next. An unfavourable word from the mouth of those with influence can ruin the most promising of careers so all eyes are on both of the female cast members. However you can’t discount the behind the cameras crew members, one of two of whom act rather dubiously nor the custodian of Watcher’s Wood who seems to have an unhealthy obsession with these starlets. It may already be curtains for one unfortunate soul but is the killer waiting in the wings to perform an encore? As Eve digs deeper into the backgrounds of these characters working in this cut throat industry she opens the lid on a Pandora’s box of secrets to reveal more than a few surprises. Red herrings are in abundance as Clare Chase lays a meandering trail of clues that ultimately lead to dead ends. How frustrating! Will Eve, dicing with danger, strike lucky for a sixth time in a row, outwit the likes of DI Palmer and deserve a standing ovation for her role in apprehending the killer? This woman knows how to hog the limelight and my money’s always on her to come up trumps!
In every review of this series so far I’ve waxed lyrical about both the wonderful, warm friendly characters who populate the pages, and the location in which these crimes take place. Quite honestly I’ve run out of superlatives!Returning to Saxford St Peter always feels like a privilege, a home from home where I can relax, catch up with the gossip and soak up the atmosphere. I can tickle my tastebuds with descriptions of Viv’s sweet temptations, breathe in the salty air whilst admiring the wildlife and traipsing through the sand dunes and above all peer over Eve’s shoulder as she methodically combs through the latest piece of evidence. I’ve grown to love many of the residents of this village community ( more of Moira please!) and value their virtual friendship so why do I feel that this latest mystery lacks a certain spark? Could it be that familiarity breeds contempt? After all I have been a loyal follower of Eve’s from her first outing so to feel my enthusiasm for Eve’s sleuthing adventures waning fills me with disappointment. The formula that up until now has kept me thoroughly entertained is in my opinion running out of steam and dare I say all the characters, apart from Gus, seem a bit less vibrant than when I first clapped eyes on them. With Eve’s romance destined to forever remain clandestine, I wonder whether the time has come for Eve and Gus to retire gracefully and head off into the sunset? I’d like to imagine them somewhere else, maybe setting up her own detective agency, free to embrace her relationship with “you know who”without fear of prying eyes or wagging tongues. As a huge fan of the marvellous Ms Mallow I don’t want to lose my affection for this amateur detective but I feel like she’s become firmly stuck in a rut. Sometimes you can have too much of a good thing (a bit like Viv’s mouthwatering cakes!)and maybe that’s the case here. Obviously my thoughts are those of someone who knows this series inside out so don’t let these minor criticisms stop you from enjoying what on the whole is an utterly charming series. I have no idea if another book featuring Eve and Gus is on the horizon but if there is I’ll be ready and waiting for Eve and the regulars to return refreshed and back on sparkling top form.
My thanks as always to the publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
So if you’re a newcomer to the world of Eve Mallow then you’re in for a treat. If like me you’ve been a fan from day one then how reassuring and exciting it is to be back on familiar territory. This popular genre of crime fiction is awash with memorable super sleuths and Eve Mallow earns her place up there with the best of them. The success and appeal of this series hinges on the characters who live and work in this small but perfectly formed village, their comings and goings the source of much amusement and entertainment, complimenting the crime element without ever detracting from the main business in hand.
Kickstarting Eve’s latest round of sleuthing with the discovery of a dead body draws the reader immediately into the heart of another nigh on impossible to solve mystery. Clearly I’m nowhere near as talented as Ms Mallow because six books in and I’ve yet to string all the clues together and uncover the culprit! Clare Chase manages to tie me up in knots EVERY single time! With dachshund Gus acting as a silent witness to his mistress’s conversational style interrogation tactics, as well as a sounding board for Eve’s developing theories as usual she is spoiled for choice when it comes to potential suspects. It quickly transpires thespians are an insecure bunch thanks to the fickle nature of the industry where you can be feted and adored one moment and relegated to minor roles the next. An unfavourable word from the mouth of those with influence can ruin the most promising of careers so all eyes are on both of the female cast members. However you can’t discount the behind the cameras crew members, one of two of whom act rather dubiously nor the custodian of Watcher’s Wood who seems to have an unhealthy obsession with these starlets. It may already be curtains for one unfortunate soul but is the killer waiting in the wings to perform an encore? As Eve digs deeper into the backgrounds of these characters working in this cut throat industry she opens the lid on a Pandora’s box of secrets to reveal more than a few surprises. Red herrings are in abundance as Clare Chase lays a meandering trail of clues that ultimately lead to dead ends. How frustrating! Will Eve, dicing with danger, strike lucky for a sixth time in a row, outwit the likes of DI Palmer and deserve a standing ovation for her role in apprehending the killer? This woman knows how to hog the limelight and my money’s always on her to come up trumps!
In every review of this series so far I’ve waxed lyrical about both the wonderful, warm friendly characters who populate the pages, and the location in which these crimes take place. Quite honestly I’ve run out of superlatives!Returning to Saxford St Peter always feels like a privilege, a home from home where I can relax, catch up with the gossip and soak up the atmosphere. I can tickle my tastebuds with descriptions of Viv’s sweet temptations, breathe in the salty air whilst admiring the wildlife and traipsing through the sand dunes and above all peer over Eve’s shoulder as she methodically combs through the latest piece of evidence. I’ve grown to love many of the residents of this village community ( more of Moira please!) and value their virtual friendship so why do I feel that this latest mystery lacks a certain spark? Could it be that familiarity breeds contempt? After all I have been a loyal follower of Eve’s from her first outing so to feel my enthusiasm for Eve’s sleuthing adventures waning fills me with disappointment. The formula that up until now has kept me thoroughly entertained is in my opinion running out of steam and dare I say all the characters, apart from Gus, seem a bit less vibrant than when I first clapped eyes on them. With Eve’s romance destined to forever remain clandestine, I wonder whether the time has come for Eve and Gus to retire gracefully and head off into the sunset? I’d like to imagine them somewhere else, maybe setting up her own detective agency, free to embrace her relationship with “you know who”without fear of prying eyes or wagging tongues. As a huge fan of the marvellous Ms Mallow I don’t want to lose my affection for this amateur detective but I feel like she’s become firmly stuck in a rut. Sometimes you can have too much of a good thing (a bit like Viv’s mouthwatering cakes!)and maybe that’s the case here. Obviously my thoughts are those of someone who knows this series inside out so don’t let these minor criticisms stop you from enjoying what on the whole is an utterly charming series. I have no idea if another book featuring Eve and Gus is on the horizon but if there is I’ll be ready and waiting for Eve and the regulars to return refreshed and back on sparkling top form.
My thanks as always to the publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for giving me the opportunity to read in exchange for an honest review.
June 21, 2021
What a joy to follow Eve in her sixth sleuthing adventure, this time amongst a TV drama's cast and crew filming at the village that's become her home.
Everything I said the first time still applies:
For those who haven't read Mystery on Hidden Lane, Mystery at Apple Tree Cottage, Mystery at Seagrave Hall, Mystery at the Old Mill and Mystery at the Abbey Hotel yet, this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book unless you already have this one, can't buy the others immediately and really don't mind partial spoilers.
I'm not sure if there will be more in this series but, if another Eve Mallow book arrives in the future, it'll definitely be considered a must-read too. And if we get a new series instead, I know I'll want to meet the new characters even if for now I can't imagine getting attached to them as much as I am to Eve... and her dog. ^^
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Everything I said the first time still applies:
Set in a charming location (the kind of place that makes you wish it wasn't fictional... except for the murders, of course!), this new series of cosy mysteries follows an ordinary woman (divorced, with two children in their twenties and a cute little dog) as her less ordinary job (writing obituaries) suddenly puts her in a definitely-not-ordinary situation - in the best place to investigate a murder.
The plot was suitably intriguing and I really liked the characters - Eve, her dog Gus, and also her new friend Viv (whose cakes contribute to make you wish the place wasn't fictional). One of my favourite things (that I can mention without spoilers) has to be that Eve not only keeps a spreadsheet to organise her thoughts but also talks about the case to her dog.
For those who haven't read Mystery on Hidden Lane, Mystery at Apple Tree Cottage, Mystery at Seagrave Hall, Mystery at the Old Mill and Mystery at the Abbey Hotel yet, this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book unless you already have this one, can't buy the others immediately and really don't mind partial spoilers.
I'm not sure if there will be more in this series but, if another Eve Mallow book arrives in the future, it'll definitely be considered a must-read too. And if we get a new series instead, I know I'll want to meet the new characters even if for now I can't imagine getting attached to them as much as I am to Eve... and her dog. ^^
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 5, 2021
Mystery at the Church by Clare Chase
Pub Date 4 August 2021
Mystery at the Church can be read as a standalone, but if you wish to read the five prequels to this series first, you can find them all on Amazon (Kindle Edition), presently at £1.99 each.
Book 1 Mystery on Hidden Lake
Book 2 Mystery at Apple Tree Cottage
Book 3 Mystery at Seagrove Hall
Book 4 Mystery at The Old Mill
Book 5 Mystery at The Abbey Hotel
Synopsis of Book 6 Mystery at the Church
When a TV drama crew descends on sleepy Saxford St Peter, Eve Mallow joins the excited throng of extras in a funeral scene. But then a real body is found… and Eve gets a starring role as sleuth!
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous – and tempestuous – as she's always imagined.
But then someone delivers a bouquet of poisonous flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she's noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus's body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it's clear that someone's out for the kill in real life.
Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they're on the case, interrogating the suspects one by one. Is it the devastating diva whose relationship with Rufus was far from professional? The cameraman who caught Rufus doing something he shouldn't? Or the groupie groundskeeper who's in the background of every shot? One thing's for sure – Eve must catch the killer before she stars in their next murderous production…
My Review
The author welcomes us to the lovely Suffolk countryside in this the 6th instalment of the Eve Mallow series. In this story, the occupants of Saxford St Peter are joining the set of a tv mini-series, "Last of the Lindens", as extras. During filming breaks, dishing out the cakes is Eve, at her inquisitive best, and she is provided with unrestricted opportunities to watch each cast and crew member. But, unfortunately, murder is never far away.
For me, the success of this charming series is the way the author portrays her characters; they are well developed with great personalities, some vibrant, some tormented, others devious with a touch of menace; who could ask for more?
Mystery at the Church is another charming, cosy mystery murder in this delightful series with bodies, suspicion, and suspects aplenty.
Pub Date 4 August 2021
Mystery at the Church can be read as a standalone, but if you wish to read the five prequels to this series first, you can find them all on Amazon (Kindle Edition), presently at £1.99 each.
Book 1 Mystery on Hidden Lake
Book 2 Mystery at Apple Tree Cottage
Book 3 Mystery at Seagrove Hall
Book 4 Mystery at The Old Mill
Book 5 Mystery at The Abbey Hotel
Synopsis of Book 6 Mystery at the Church
When a TV drama crew descends on sleepy Saxford St Peter, Eve Mallow joins the excited throng of extras in a funeral scene. But then a real body is found… and Eve gets a starring role as sleuth!
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous – and tempestuous – as she's always imagined.
But then someone delivers a bouquet of poisonous flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she's noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus's body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it's clear that someone's out for the kill in real life.
Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they're on the case, interrogating the suspects one by one. Is it the devastating diva whose relationship with Rufus was far from professional? The cameraman who caught Rufus doing something he shouldn't? Or the groupie groundskeeper who's in the background of every shot? One thing's for sure – Eve must catch the killer before she stars in their next murderous production…
My Review
The author welcomes us to the lovely Suffolk countryside in this the 6th instalment of the Eve Mallow series. In this story, the occupants of Saxford St Peter are joining the set of a tv mini-series, "Last of the Lindens", as extras. During filming breaks, dishing out the cakes is Eve, at her inquisitive best, and she is provided with unrestricted opportunities to watch each cast and crew member. But, unfortunately, murder is never far away.
For me, the success of this charming series is the way the author portrays her characters; they are well developed with great personalities, some vibrant, some tormented, others devious with a touch of menace; who could ask for more?
Mystery at the Church is another charming, cosy mystery murder in this delightful series with bodies, suspicion, and suspects aplenty.
January 16, 2022
Originally posted on my blog: Nonstop Reader.
Mystery at the Church is the 6th book in the Eve Mallow village cozy series by Clare Chase. Released 4th Aug 2021, it's 265 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library (along with the rest of the series) to borrow and read for free.
This is a technically adept and well written book. The characters are distinct enough to keep them clear in readers' minds, and the dialogue flows fairly well. There's maybe a trifle too much emphasis on hearsay and gossip (and many of the central characters are middle aged and female and a trifle trope-y), but it's not egregious and I didn't find myself being irritated over it whilst reading. Main protagonist Eve's love/hate relationship with the local constabulary, and her secret relationship with a former detective who is lying low in the district for his own protection after a high profile case in London, add some interest and conflict. The book is peppered with actors and amateur dramatics characters who provide eccentric and light drama.
There were several seemingly disparate plot threads which intertwined into a satisfying denouement and resolution. Despite being the sixth book in the series, it worked well enough as a standalone, though there are some minor spoilers for earlier books if read out of order. I was engaged enough with the writing and the mystery, that I intend to pick up the previous books in the series. This would be a good one for readers who enjoy binge-reading series.
Four stars. This is definitely one for British village cozy readers. Very well written and constructed. Clean language and mostly off-page violence.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
Mystery at the Church is the 6th book in the Eve Mallow village cozy series by Clare Chase. Released 4th Aug 2021, it's 265 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library (along with the rest of the series) to borrow and read for free.
This is a technically adept and well written book. The characters are distinct enough to keep them clear in readers' minds, and the dialogue flows fairly well. There's maybe a trifle too much emphasis on hearsay and gossip (and many of the central characters are middle aged and female and a trifle trope-y), but it's not egregious and I didn't find myself being irritated over it whilst reading. Main protagonist Eve's love/hate relationship with the local constabulary, and her secret relationship with a former detective who is lying low in the district for his own protection after a high profile case in London, add some interest and conflict. The book is peppered with actors and amateur dramatics characters who provide eccentric and light drama.
There were several seemingly disparate plot threads which intertwined into a satisfying denouement and resolution. Despite being the sixth book in the series, it worked well enough as a standalone, though there are some minor spoilers for earlier books if read out of order. I was engaged enough with the writing and the mystery, that I intend to pick up the previous books in the series. This would be a good one for readers who enjoy binge-reading series.
Four stars. This is definitely one for British village cozy readers. Very well written and constructed. Clean language and mostly off-page violence.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
July 26, 2021
Wow! Book six already and with absolutely NO signs of flagging. Obviously usual series rules apply for backstory and character development reasons, although the main story is self-contained.
This time out, resident of Saxford St Peter, obituary writer Eva Mallow adds another string to her bow. That of TV extra. Yes, they're filming in the village. A TV drama to boot. And Eve, along with Gus, are getting in on the action. But it wouldn't be much of a story if things didn't take a dark turn and, in this case, not long after receiving a poisonous bouquet, director Rufus Beaumont is found dead.
And so Eve once again puts on her obituary hat. Which also allows her to investigate the murder too. A nice little sideline she has developed since she lost faith in the local police force, specifically her nemesis DI Palmer. Aided, as usual, by Robin with whom she is now acting on the feelings she has developed for him. As she starts to chip away at Rufus's life, his work, his family, public and private persona, the finger of suspicion starts to point in many directions. Has she bitten off more than she can chew with this one? But then there's another death and the stakes get much much higher...
I love this series. It really has everything I need to make a good book a great read. Cracking characters - both main and extras, set in a wonderful place, acting out a well plotted and executed storyline, all delivered in a no nonsense, no waffle or padding way which means that the book gets on with itself very well indeed. I also love the quirk that our amateur sleuth is an obituary writer which gives her carte blanche to ask questions of those close to the victim. Novel indeed!
We also visit Monty's tearoom with it's quirky mismatched tea sets and yummy cakes. Please don't start this book hungry!
I also love the direction the author is taking with Eve's personal life. I wish her well :)
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series. Roll on next time.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
This time out, resident of Saxford St Peter, obituary writer Eva Mallow adds another string to her bow. That of TV extra. Yes, they're filming in the village. A TV drama to boot. And Eve, along with Gus, are getting in on the action. But it wouldn't be much of a story if things didn't take a dark turn and, in this case, not long after receiving a poisonous bouquet, director Rufus Beaumont is found dead.
And so Eve once again puts on her obituary hat. Which also allows her to investigate the murder too. A nice little sideline she has developed since she lost faith in the local police force, specifically her nemesis DI Palmer. Aided, as usual, by Robin with whom she is now acting on the feelings she has developed for him. As she starts to chip away at Rufus's life, his work, his family, public and private persona, the finger of suspicion starts to point in many directions. Has she bitten off more than she can chew with this one? But then there's another death and the stakes get much much higher...
I love this series. It really has everything I need to make a good book a great read. Cracking characters - both main and extras, set in a wonderful place, acting out a well plotted and executed storyline, all delivered in a no nonsense, no waffle or padding way which means that the book gets on with itself very well indeed. I also love the quirk that our amateur sleuth is an obituary writer which gives her carte blanche to ask questions of those close to the victim. Novel indeed!
We also visit Monty's tearoom with it's quirky mismatched tea sets and yummy cakes. Please don't start this book hungry!
I also love the direction the author is taking with Eve's personal life. I wish her well :)
All in all, a cracking addition to an already well impressive series. Roll on next time.
My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
November 3, 2021
Another good book in the series
I am really enjoying Eve Malllow. I'd like to have her life. For the time I spend reading this series, I guess I'm as close to this character and her beautiful fictional life as I'm going to get. I just love everything the Author has crafted in this series. All of it. The village. The pub. The tea shop. Gus. Viv. Now, Robin. The neighbors. It's all so lovely. This book did not disappoint. One remark, observation, made by Eve really had me laughing out loud. She managed to observe, while on location, that she had no idea that there was so much people managing involved on a film set. Hah! Between the cast and the crew, the combined wattage of ego could power London for a week! Any film set. (I found it funny, being a retired film producer.) The Author's grasp of defining elements of a production, such as tedious rehearsals and OCD/perfectionist behaviors was brilliantly described and remarkably accurate. The murder woven into this setting and the manner in which the plot unfolded was very well done. I love how Eve's obituary writing really is the strongest beam in her sleuthing ability. The supporting friends and villagers give this little village it's color and the cozy description of said village makes me question why I haven't relocated to a village such as this one. I do know it would never live up to the lovely patch and enviable life Clare Chase has crafted for Eve Mallow. So I'll visit on the pages of these books. I highly recommend the entire series. I'm about to start book 7 and have fingers crossed a book 8 will be forthcoming.
I am really enjoying Eve Malllow. I'd like to have her life. For the time I spend reading this series, I guess I'm as close to this character and her beautiful fictional life as I'm going to get. I just love everything the Author has crafted in this series. All of it. The village. The pub. The tea shop. Gus. Viv. Now, Robin. The neighbors. It's all so lovely. This book did not disappoint. One remark, observation, made by Eve really had me laughing out loud. She managed to observe, while on location, that she had no idea that there was so much people managing involved on a film set. Hah! Between the cast and the crew, the combined wattage of ego could power London for a week! Any film set. (I found it funny, being a retired film producer.) The Author's grasp of defining elements of a production, such as tedious rehearsals and OCD/perfectionist behaviors was brilliantly described and remarkably accurate. The murder woven into this setting and the manner in which the plot unfolded was very well done. I love how Eve's obituary writing really is the strongest beam in her sleuthing ability. The supporting friends and villagers give this little village it's color and the cozy description of said village makes me question why I haven't relocated to a village such as this one. I do know it would never live up to the lovely patch and enviable life Clare Chase has crafted for Eve Mallow. So I'll visit on the pages of these books. I highly recommend the entire series. I'm about to start book 7 and have fingers crossed a book 8 will be forthcoming.
December 31, 2021
Mystery at the Church by Clare Chase in another intriguing mystery investigated by obituary writer, Eve Mallow. Eve writes about interesting and famous people for major publications, not just the local rag. Right now she is busy serving as a member of the crowd for the folks making a movie nearby. Nearly everyone in the village is, as well. Plus she and Viv were supplying cakes from the tearoom to serve the actors and extras on break. Moira, the town gossip was there picking up whatever news she could find. Rufus Beaumont was a well-know director from a well-known theatrical family and there were several stars involved as well. Eve was there to people watch and she was getting plenty of action. Then, Rufus ended up dead. Then, others.
This was a good mystery. Not that Eve's doesn't live a mystery given her relationship with gardener, Robin, who isn't a gardener at all but an ex-policeman who uncovered major corruption in the department and now was hiding from reprisal. Eve was involved on the sly and she and Robin worked together to solve crimes, including this one. Eve is a terrific character, with plenty of back-story. The reader doesn't see as much of Robin, but he is a good guy. Viv is a little wild, but a good person, and interesting. Where movie people are involved, nothing is beyond belief and this is no exception. There are twists and turns and red herrings everywhere. In the end, it's a very sad story, but a good one.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at the Church by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #clarechase #mysteryatthechurch
This was a good mystery. Not that Eve's doesn't live a mystery given her relationship with gardener, Robin, who isn't a gardener at all but an ex-policeman who uncovered major corruption in the department and now was hiding from reprisal. Eve was involved on the sly and she and Robin worked together to solve crimes, including this one. Eve is a terrific character, with plenty of back-story. The reader doesn't see as much of Robin, but he is a good guy. Viv is a little wild, but a good person, and interesting. Where movie people are involved, nothing is beyond belief and this is no exception. There are twists and turns and red herrings everywhere. In the end, it's a very sad story, but a good one.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at the Church by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #clarechase #mysteryatthechurch
July 1, 2021
When most of a village has been excitedly hired as extras in a new television production it's all anyone can talk about. For local obituary writer, Eve Mallow and best friend, Viv it's also a chance to show the world just how good the food at Monty's tearoom is as they provide cakes and snacks for the cast and crew.
When local gossip Moira announces how she’s just seen the director in a compromising position he brushes it aside but when his body is discovered not long afterwards it changes everything. Asked to write the obituary Eve finds herself in the middle of things once again and can't help but investigate at the same time. With rivalries and long held grievances simmering just beneath the surface Eve knows she has to keep alert to to the danger surrounding her.
This is the sixth book in a wonderful series and I love reconnecting with all the regular characters living in Saxford St Peter. Moira is the chatty shopkeeper who adds a touch of levity to the proceedings and once again she is pushing her nose in where it isn't wanted which I very much enjoyed. Eve's little dog is another favourite and he also took a starring role.
I think I have an idea of where Eve's storyline will gradually go but I definitely hope there will be a few more outings for her before that happens. As usual I didn't work things out before Eve but I'm pretty sure I fell for most of the red herrings I was supposed to.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my. I love this series and this is a worthy addition.
When local gossip Moira announces how she’s just seen the director in a compromising position he brushes it aside but when his body is discovered not long afterwards it changes everything. Asked to write the obituary Eve finds herself in the middle of things once again and can't help but investigate at the same time. With rivalries and long held grievances simmering just beneath the surface Eve knows she has to keep alert to to the danger surrounding her.
This is the sixth book in a wonderful series and I love reconnecting with all the regular characters living in Saxford St Peter. Moira is the chatty shopkeeper who adds a touch of levity to the proceedings and once again she is pushing her nose in where it isn't wanted which I very much enjoyed. Eve's little dog is another favourite and he also took a starring role.
I think I have an idea of where Eve's storyline will gradually go but I definitely hope there will be a few more outings for her before that happens. As usual I didn't work things out before Eve but I'm pretty sure I fell for most of the red herrings I was supposed to.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my. I love this series and this is a worthy addition.
July 29, 2023
There’s never a quiet moment for obituary writer, Eve Mallow, or the village of Saxford St Peter. This time, the tranquillity is swept aside by a film crew. Eve and many of the residents become extras in what turns out to be a drama within a drama when the director, Rufus Beaumont is murdered.
With a long list of suspects, and plenty of motives among a disparate cast and crew, the scale of Eve’s investigation looks daunting. Once more, she uses her research to write an obituary as an opportunity to get closer to the people involved. But as she digs into the director’s past and relationships, there’s a second murder.
Like the previous novels in the series, the characters and their developing relationships contribute to the enjoyment of the story, adding colour, depth and humour to lighten the darker sides of murder. And of course, there’s Gus the dachshund, who brightens any scene.
The plot takes a winding course, twisting and turning with each discovery Eve makes until she’s as confused as the reader. The breakthrough provides the final surprise. Alibis crumble, revealing new motives that lead swiftly to a thrilling climax.
Eve proves once more that she’s a shrewd, tenacious and resourceful investigator, who’s more than a match for the police.
While you can read this as a standalone, you’re missing out on the previous novels in what has become and engaging and compelling series that gets better with each book. I’m already looking forward to reading the next in the series.
With a long list of suspects, and plenty of motives among a disparate cast and crew, the scale of Eve’s investigation looks daunting. Once more, she uses her research to write an obituary as an opportunity to get closer to the people involved. But as she digs into the director’s past and relationships, there’s a second murder.
Like the previous novels in the series, the characters and their developing relationships contribute to the enjoyment of the story, adding colour, depth and humour to lighten the darker sides of murder. And of course, there’s Gus the dachshund, who brightens any scene.
The plot takes a winding course, twisting and turning with each discovery Eve makes until she’s as confused as the reader. The breakthrough provides the final surprise. Alibis crumble, revealing new motives that lead swiftly to a thrilling climax.
Eve proves once more that she’s a shrewd, tenacious and resourceful investigator, who’s more than a match for the police.
While you can read this as a standalone, you’re missing out on the previous novels in what has become and engaging and compelling series that gets better with each book. I’m already looking forward to reading the next in the series.
June 22, 2025
Clare Chase brings the reader another wonderful tale with this latest offering, Mystery at the Church, the sixth instalment in one of my all time favourite cozy mystery series, featuring Eve Mallow and her beautiful daschund Gus.
Is this a case of life imitating art or art imitating life? When a TV crew comes to Saxford St Peter to shoot a new drama series, Eve Mallow and its residents are excited to join in and be extras. But when its director, Rufus Beaumont is found dead, Eve’s amateur sleuthing skills kick in and she is on the case. Will she be able to solve the mystery before somebody yells cut, that’s a wrap and the final curtain falls?
I loved the plot for this one and I was immediately hooked from its opening chapter. As always Clare Chase makes you feel you are part of the story with beautiful writing that so vividly brings everything to life. It is also always such a delight to be transported back to Saxford St Peter and be reacquainted with its cast of colourful characters both old and new. Clare Chase has created such a great bunch that it always feels like you are catching up with old friends.
Mystery at the Church is a fun read and is another perfect addition to the series. It will hold you captive from beginning to end and with a host of characters to suspect, this one will keep you guessing right up to the big reveal. Although we do have to wait until January 2022 for the next instalment, I am so excited that there is another one to come in this delightful series to look forward too.
Is this a case of life imitating art or art imitating life? When a TV crew comes to Saxford St Peter to shoot a new drama series, Eve Mallow and its residents are excited to join in and be extras. But when its director, Rufus Beaumont is found dead, Eve’s amateur sleuthing skills kick in and she is on the case. Will she be able to solve the mystery before somebody yells cut, that’s a wrap and the final curtain falls?
I loved the plot for this one and I was immediately hooked from its opening chapter. As always Clare Chase makes you feel you are part of the story with beautiful writing that so vividly brings everything to life. It is also always such a delight to be transported back to Saxford St Peter and be reacquainted with its cast of colourful characters both old and new. Clare Chase has created such a great bunch that it always feels like you are catching up with old friends.
Mystery at the Church is a fun read and is another perfect addition to the series. It will hold you captive from beginning to end and with a host of characters to suspect, this one will keep you guessing right up to the big reveal. Although we do have to wait until January 2022 for the next instalment, I am so excited that there is another one to come in this delightful series to look forward too.
August 3, 2021
4.5 Stars
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous and tempestuous as she’s always imagined. But then someone delivers a bouquet of wolfbane flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she’s noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus’s body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it’s clear that someone’s out for the kill in real life. Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they’re on the case aided b the elusive gardener Robin & Montys café owner Viv.
This is the sixth outing for obituary writer & budding cake baker Eve, it could easily be read on its own but starting from the beginning builds a lovely picture of the village & villagers. I love Eve who can’t help herself from getting involved in the murders & I love how she wheedles information from people whilst working on her obituaries. I also love the slow burn, secret romance between Eve & Robin & of course Gus is ever present & saes the day in this book. There are twists & turns, plenty of red herrings & once again I didn’t work out who the murderer was. I look forward to more books in this lovely series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Eve Mallow is looking forward to her fifteen minutes of fame when Saxford St Peter is chosen as the location for a new drama series. A devoted people-watcher, Eve is thrilled to learn that TV stars are just as glamorous and tempestuous as she’s always imagined. But then someone delivers a bouquet of wolfbane flowers to the director Rufus Beaumont, making Eve worry that some of the rivalries she’s noticed are deadly serious. And when Rufus’s body is found in the church where the funeral scene took place, it’s clear that someone’s out for the kill in real life. Eve and dachshund Gus have been on the ground from the start, and now they’re on the case aided b the elusive gardener Robin & Montys café owner Viv.
This is the sixth outing for obituary writer & budding cake baker Eve, it could easily be read on its own but starting from the beginning builds a lovely picture of the village & villagers. I love Eve who can’t help herself from getting involved in the murders & I love how she wheedles information from people whilst working on her obituaries. I also love the slow burn, secret romance between Eve & Robin & of course Gus is ever present & saes the day in this book. There are twists & turns, plenty of red herrings & once again I didn’t work out who the murderer was. I look forward to more books in this lovely series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 1, 2022
Obituary writer and amateur sleuth Eve Mallow joins the locals in being an extra for a TV series that films in their village. But the filming ends in chaos when the director is found dead in the ancient church. The other cast and crew are the main suspects...
Mystery at the Church is the 6th book by Clare Chase to feature Eve Mallow. However, there are no spoilers so would work as a stand alone novel.
The village of Saxford St Peter is overrun with a TV crew and Eve in on hand as an extra but also providing cakes as part of her part time job in between obituary writing. When celebrated director Rufus Beaumont is found dead, Eve seizes the opportunity to write his obituary as well as hunt for his killer. Once again she calls upon former police detective Robin to undermine the ineffective officer in charge of the case.
The personal and professional relationships of the victim with other characters are examined by Eve as she gathers information for her obituary. This enables her to search for clues about the motive for the murder and therefore the person responsible.
There is little forensic information or violence despite the murder plot. As I have said previously about the other books in the series, the plot has a classical Sunday night TV drama feel to it due the traditional English village setting and array of background characters.
Mystery at the Church is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery to add to the series.
Mystery at the Church is the 6th book by Clare Chase to feature Eve Mallow. However, there are no spoilers so would work as a stand alone novel.
The village of Saxford St Peter is overrun with a TV crew and Eve in on hand as an extra but also providing cakes as part of her part time job in between obituary writing. When celebrated director Rufus Beaumont is found dead, Eve seizes the opportunity to write his obituary as well as hunt for his killer. Once again she calls upon former police detective Robin to undermine the ineffective officer in charge of the case.
The personal and professional relationships of the victim with other characters are examined by Eve as she gathers information for her obituary. This enables her to search for clues about the motive for the murder and therefore the person responsible.
There is little forensic information or violence despite the murder plot. As I have said previously about the other books in the series, the plot has a classical Sunday night TV drama feel to it due the traditional English village setting and array of background characters.
Mystery at the Church is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery to add to the series.
June 26, 2021
After reading 'Mystery at the Church' by Clare Chase (the sixth book in the popular Eve Mallow mystery series), I want to move to Saxford St Peter and join Eve in her next adventure. The book is an absolute delight and as we join Eve she is working as an extra on the set of the movie. 'Last of the Lindens' surrounded by the famous and infamous of the big screen. The picturesque village is rife with rumours about life around the movie set and soon Eve uncovers soon of the rumours are true as she witnesses tempers exploding and secret passions being revealed!
When the star is unexpectedly murder, Eve finds herself on the inside, due to her knowledge of life onside the set and is soon assigned the role of writing the the obituary. Just the perfect 'cover' for her to snoop around and soon Eve is on the track of a dangerous killer. A killer who does not hesitate to kill again, and again!
I mentioned that I want to move to Saxford St Peter, why? Well, the village is described as the most chocolate box perfect village but with an edge - brilliantly written and developed characters. Of course, we have the village villar, the nosey parker, the tea shop - the cakes, of the cakes, I was so hungry while reading this book.
Mystery at the Church is a truly enjoyable, fun read and do recommend that you read it this summer. Though perhaps with a cup of tea and some cakes to hand!
When the star is unexpectedly murder, Eve finds herself on the inside, due to her knowledge of life onside the set and is soon assigned the role of writing the the obituary. Just the perfect 'cover' for her to snoop around and soon Eve is on the track of a dangerous killer. A killer who does not hesitate to kill again, and again!
I mentioned that I want to move to Saxford St Peter, why? Well, the village is described as the most chocolate box perfect village but with an edge - brilliantly written and developed characters. Of course, we have the village villar, the nosey parker, the tea shop - the cakes, of the cakes, I was so hungry while reading this book.
Mystery at the Church is a truly enjoyable, fun read and do recommend that you read it this summer. Though perhaps with a cup of tea and some cakes to hand!
August 4, 2021
For my copy of this book thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley too
I chose to read it and this is my honest review.
This is the sixth Eve Mallow Mystery book
If you enjoy cosy mysteries, please take a look!
It is a thoroughly enjoyable read
With intrigue and murders where Eve takes the lead.
When a new TV drama in their village is being made
Eve and the villagers have roles as extras to be played.
Even her dog, Gus, has a special part, too
But a murder changes everything that they can do.
Eve enjoys joining in with the dramatic scenes
That way she is able to watch everyone and see what she gleans.
With poisonous flowers and a threatening note, too
Who’d guess this with murder would be followed through?
Move over Miss Marple - Eve Mallow is here!
She won’t give up until who did it is clear.
She also has help from her secret lover
Who is an ex detective in hiding and undercover.
The victim upset lots of folks all the time
So there are suspects galore for committing the crime.
With help from the villagers, her friends and her lover
Let’s hope Eve Mallow the perpetrator can discover!
So if cosy mysteries are what you desire
With clues galore to keep you guessing and stuck in the mire
I highly recommend you add this book to your reads
And hope it will entertain and meet all your needs!
I chose to read it and this is my honest review.
This is the sixth Eve Mallow Mystery book
If you enjoy cosy mysteries, please take a look!
It is a thoroughly enjoyable read
With intrigue and murders where Eve takes the lead.
When a new TV drama in their village is being made
Eve and the villagers have roles as extras to be played.
Even her dog, Gus, has a special part, too
But a murder changes everything that they can do.
Eve enjoys joining in with the dramatic scenes
That way she is able to watch everyone and see what she gleans.
With poisonous flowers and a threatening note, too
Who’d guess this with murder would be followed through?
Move over Miss Marple - Eve Mallow is here!
She won’t give up until who did it is clear.
She also has help from her secret lover
Who is an ex detective in hiding and undercover.
The victim upset lots of folks all the time
So there are suspects galore for committing the crime.
With help from the villagers, her friends and her lover
Let’s hope Eve Mallow the perpetrator can discover!
So if cosy mysteries are what you desire
With clues galore to keep you guessing and stuck in the mire
I highly recommend you add this book to your reads
And hope it will entertain and meet all your needs!
August 8, 2021
Eve Mallow is eager to take part as an extra in a TV series being filmed in Saxford St Peter. As an avid people watcher, she is keen to observe the goings on behind the scenes of production. When a bouquet of poisonous flowers is secretly delivered to the director and he turns up dead a day later, Eve suspects that one of the off screen rivalries has led to murder! The cast and crew all seem to have secrets and many of them actually hated the director. Which one of them did it and who else will die before the killer is revealed?
Clare Chase does an excellent job with this series. Eve is smart and thorough in doing her research and sorting out truth from falsehoods or outright lies. There are several viable options for who the murderer is and well placed twists and red herrings to keep you wondering almost to the end. Eve's friend Viv - though well meaning is a lovable hoot! Moira - the store owner and resident town gossip is a royal pain but the stories wouldn't be the same without her! Then there is Robin. With only Eve, the vicar and Sgt Boyles knowing his real past, it is interesting to watch him and Eve interact as their romance grows but must also remain secret to protect him. A couple of close calls for them in this book!
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
Clare Chase does an excellent job with this series. Eve is smart and thorough in doing her research and sorting out truth from falsehoods or outright lies. There are several viable options for who the murderer is and well placed twists and red herrings to keep you wondering almost to the end. Eve's friend Viv - though well meaning is a lovable hoot! Moira - the store owner and resident town gossip is a royal pain but the stories wouldn't be the same without her! Then there is Robin. With only Eve, the vicar and Sgt Boyles knowing his real past, it is interesting to watch him and Eve interact as their romance grows but must also remain secret to protect him. A couple of close calls for them in this book!
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
August 14, 2021
As a devoted follower of this series, it definitely gets better with each new book. Eve Mallow, the part-time obituary writer and tea shop helper, is a lovely character. The perfect amateur sleuth being courageous, kind, nosy and quirky. Her latest role as a film extra provides lots of opportunities to use her keen observational skills. A dangerous gift and an unexpected death lead to a new commission and the chance to investigate a murder.
I love the methodical way she draws up a timeline to solve the murder. With her useful police contacts and her opportunity to interview potential suspects in her obituary writer role, she soon has lots of clues, motives and suspects, to consider.
The characters are relatable. The potential suspects have secrets that Eve and Robin discover as the story unfolds. It's a good balance of action, deduction and investigation. The immersive writing style invites the reader to draw their conclusions too.
The perfect read for lovers of classic mystery.
I received a copy of this book from Bookouture via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
July 29, 2021
This is a book which is the part of a cozy crime series featuring obituary writer and part time sleuth Eve Mallow.
It is the first of the series that I have read and I enjoyed the characters and the well described lovely setting although felt that the book would be definitely be even better understood if I had read previous ones and knew more of the character back story.
That having been said I thoroughly enjoyed the fast paced romp in the village and the careful detection being done despite the famous faces involved at a film being made in the village and the interference of the not so well meaning local policeman.
Definitely one to delve into and I will be looking to read the first five and looking forward to reading book 7 when available to continue to discover more about the characters and the area.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
It is the first of the series that I have read and I enjoyed the characters and the well described lovely setting although felt that the book would be definitely be even better understood if I had read previous ones and knew more of the character back story.
That having been said I thoroughly enjoyed the fast paced romp in the village and the careful detection being done despite the famous faces involved at a film being made in the village and the interference of the not so well meaning local policeman.
Definitely one to delve into and I will be looking to read the first five and looking forward to reading book 7 when available to continue to discover more about the characters and the area.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 1, 2021
This is an excellent cozy series and this is the best instalment I read so far.
A complex and gripping story, full of twists and turns, that I read in an afternoon as I couldn't stop reading.
I love Golden Age mysteries and this book features a number of tropes of the mysteries of that era:: a limited number of suspects in a restricted environment, the importance of timetables and the strained relationships full of secrets.
i loved every moment of this story discovering secretes, possible motives, false alibis.
Eve and Gus are as lovely as usual. Eve is a very clever woman who is able to connect details and discover secretes.
The characters are well thought and interesting, there's a lot of care in describing the psychology of the possible suspects and of the victims.
The mystery is solid, no plot hole, and the solution came as a surprise.
I can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
A complex and gripping story, full of twists and turns, that I read in an afternoon as I couldn't stop reading.
I love Golden Age mysteries and this book features a number of tropes of the mysteries of that era:: a limited number of suspects in a restricted environment, the importance of timetables and the strained relationships full of secrets.
i loved every moment of this story discovering secretes, possible motives, false alibis.
Eve and Gus are as lovely as usual. Eve is a very clever woman who is able to connect details and discover secretes.
The characters are well thought and interesting, there's a lot of care in describing the psychology of the possible suspects and of the victims.
The mystery is solid, no plot hole, and the solution came as a surprise.
I can't wait to read the next instalment.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
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