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Beaufort Scales Mystery #3
A Manor of Life & Death - A Cozy Mystery (with Dragons): A Beaufort Scales Mystery, Book 3
Warring staff. “Accidental” poisonings. Topiary of dubious intent. Throw in the full complement of the Toot Hansell Women’s Institute and dragons doing yoga on the terrace, and DI Adams is starting to wonder if she might have made a small misjudgement signing up for this particular spa weekend in the country. And that’s before the dead body in the sauna and the storm that cuts them off from the rest of the world. Now she’s dealing with a houseful of guests (and staff) who’re looking more suspicious by the moment, fending off protesters wielding table condiments, and trying to keep everyone safe as the storm closes in. She needs to find the killer, keep the dragons hidden, stop the W.I. forming some sort of pearl-and-twinset posse, and try to resist the urge to arrest everyone. And that’s even before she addresses the problem of the invisible dog. Sure. It’s going to be a wonderful weekend. A Manor of Life & Death is a feel-good cozy mystery, perfect for those who like their whodunnits served with a generous helping of humour, friendship, and magic. This is the third Beaufort Scales cozy mystery (with dragons) - check out Baking Bad and Yule Be Sorry for more dragonish adventure! This cozy mystery
346 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2020
148 people are currently reading
198 people want to read
About the author
Kim M. Watt
42 books335 followersHello lovely people!
I’m Kim (as you may have guessed, given that you're on the author page for Kim). I write funny fantasies and off-beat cosy (or cozy, depending where you're from) mysteries set in a world not so dissimilar to ours - and in fact sharing many locations.
And in this not-dissimilar world you'll find mystery-solving dragons with a strong affection for barbecues and scones, and snarky feline PIs with human sidekicks. You'll run across baking-obsessed reapers running petting cafes stocked with baby ghouls, Apocalyptic riders on Vespas, and women of a certain age Getting Things Done. There may even be the odd born-again troll redefining troll-ness for the modern age about the place.
You'll find myth and reality clashing in small and spectacular ways, and discover the healing magic of tea and a really good lemon drizzle cake.
But, most of all, there will be friendship, and loyalty, and people of all species looking out for one another. Because these, above all things, are magic.
And you can find me rambling on about all this (and more) over on my website, or join me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for bad puns and many, many cat memes. Many.
Come join me!
I’m Kim (as you may have guessed, given that you're on the author page for Kim). I write funny fantasies and off-beat cosy (or cozy, depending where you're from) mysteries set in a world not so dissimilar to ours - and in fact sharing many locations.
And in this not-dissimilar world you'll find mystery-solving dragons with a strong affection for barbecues and scones, and snarky feline PIs with human sidekicks. You'll run across baking-obsessed reapers running petting cafes stocked with baby ghouls, Apocalyptic riders on Vespas, and women of a certain age Getting Things Done. There may even be the odd born-again troll redefining troll-ness for the modern age about the place.
You'll find myth and reality clashing in small and spectacular ways, and discover the healing magic of tea and a really good lemon drizzle cake.
But, most of all, there will be friendship, and loyalty, and people of all species looking out for one another. Because these, above all things, are magic.
And you can find me rambling on about all this (and more) over on my website, or join me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for bad puns and many, many cat memes. Many.
Come join me!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 88 reviews
September 5, 2024
'Manor Of Life And Death' was a bit of a disappointment in comparison to the first two offerings in the Beaufort Scales series 'Baking Bad' and 'Yule Be Sorry'.
The book had a promising start with DI Adams agreeing to take a weekend spa break with the women of the WI at an English country house owned by Miriam's sister. I liked the idea of seeing DI Adams' off-duty self (although it turned out she didn't have one, or at least one she was prepared to share. I was amused at watching invisible-to-those-not-in-the-know dragons joining in with a Yoga class on the terrace. And then there was the big 'dog' only DI Adams could see.
The dog was the main reason I was there. I prefer the DI Adams books to the Beaufort books, they feel sharper and better written and the 'dog' is with DI Adams in her next DI Adams escapade, 'All Out Of Leeds' so I wanted to read the book where they first met.
I settled down to see what kind of country house mystery Adams, the dragons and the WI would find themselves unentangling. There were lots of possibilities with sets of guests who probably weren't who they claimed to be, strange creatures in the woods, an invisible dog, a talking cat and rivalries and resentments between the staff and within Miriam's more-than-a-little-eccentric family, Add in a suspicious death in the sauna in the middle of the night and a massive storm that cuts the house off from the outside world and you have the makings of a fun mystery.
Unfortunately, these makings never really became a cake. The plot was chaotic. There was too much going on and no clear point of focus for viewing them through. There were funny lines and tense moments and surprises but they didn't hang together. Adams, the WI and the dragons were all out of their element and that seemed to make it hard for the story to get traction.
I loved some of the scenes- the dragons in flight coming to the rescue, the encounters with the other forest creatures, the bitter struggles between Miriam and her unreconcilable sisters - but these got lost in the messy, over-stuffed plot.
The book had a promising start with DI Adams agreeing to take a weekend spa break with the women of the WI at an English country house owned by Miriam's sister. I liked the idea of seeing DI Adams' off-duty self (although it turned out she didn't have one, or at least one she was prepared to share. I was amused at watching invisible-to-those-not-in-the-know dragons joining in with a Yoga class on the terrace. And then there was the big 'dog' only DI Adams could see.
The dog was the main reason I was there. I prefer the DI Adams books to the Beaufort books, they feel sharper and better written and the 'dog' is with DI Adams in her next DI Adams escapade, 'All Out Of Leeds' so I wanted to read the book where they first met.
I settled down to see what kind of country house mystery Adams, the dragons and the WI would find themselves unentangling. There were lots of possibilities with sets of guests who probably weren't who they claimed to be, strange creatures in the woods, an invisible dog, a talking cat and rivalries and resentments between the staff and within Miriam's more-than-a-little-eccentric family, Add in a suspicious death in the sauna in the middle of the night and a massive storm that cuts the house off from the outside world and you have the makings of a fun mystery.
Unfortunately, these makings never really became a cake. The plot was chaotic. There was too much going on and no clear point of focus for viewing them through. There were funny lines and tense moments and surprises but they didn't hang together. Adams, the WI and the dragons were all out of their element and that seemed to make it hard for the story to get traction.
I loved some of the scenes- the dragons in flight coming to the rescue, the encounters with the other forest creatures, the bitter struggles between Miriam and her unreconcilable sisters - but these got lost in the messy, over-stuffed plot.
March 23, 2023
I am probably dating myself with this comment, but here goes. Reading this book was like watching a Keystone Cops movie. Totally zany with multiple plot twists. Kim M. Watt has a knack for writing chaotic, funny scenes. Particularly when she mixes the "folk" with humans. And only some humans can even see or hear the "folk." What are "folk?" Pixies, gnomes, creatures invented by Watt and of course, the dragons. And oh, you belligerent gnomes let loose in the wine cellar, you really, really do not want to piss off a dragon.
A death in the manor. Accident? Murder? Read, sort out the characters, and you may find an answer.
Have fun!
A death in the manor. Accident? Murder? Read, sort out the characters, and you may find an answer.
Have fun!
June 3, 2024
I really enjoy this series. Each entry adds more richness to the world, including the relationships among the characters and the details about the Folk and their lives too.
March 27, 2019
What a wonderful sense of humour this author has! I am really enjoying the tales of mystery solving dragons, the ladies of the local WI, and the long suffering if not very patient police detective. This one involves a "relaxing" spa weekend, and DI Adams really should have known better! but it's fun for the readers and we're introduced to some new (to me) mythical creatures and more than one crime is solved, and the dragons learn yoghurt LOL. Oh, and the recipes are as fun to read as the story, a wonderful bonus. Looking forward to the next one.
April 1, 2019
This series is a lot of fun! In this one, the murder mystery is nearly eclipsed by all the other action-packed antics. I have grown very fond of the Toot Hansel Women’s Institute, the Cloverly dragons, and Detective Inspector Adams. I have even, somewhat reluctantly, developed a bit of affection for Thompson, the cat. A delightful purely escapist read full of twists and surprises, tea and cakes, and even some comforting wisdom.
January 23, 2021
Once again, a tale of dragons and mystery that is absolutely to be loved!
I don't know what more to say, honestly. Between an invisible dog, a talking cat, and, of course, dragons befriending a group of elderly ladies and a disgruntled detective, each one of the books in this series provides more entertainment and suspense.
I don't know what more to say, honestly. Between an invisible dog, a talking cat, and, of course, dragons befriending a group of elderly ladies and a disgruntled detective, each one of the books in this series provides more entertainment and suspense.
March 15, 2025
As joyous as ever
I could not love the Beaufort Scales books more and this one was a joy from beginning to end. It did feel that the storyline got a little lost amongst the chaotic goings on and, unusually, there didn't seem to be quite enough cake but the quirky characters, the warmth, and the humour are more than enough to make up for that.
I feel that Kim M. Watt's beautiful writing can be easily underestimated in a book this funny but believe me that she weaves a powerful spell. Reading each one of the Beaufort Scales books feels like visiting old friends and, as with the others I have read, the ending made me cry.
Perfect reading for these ragged and uncertain times.
I could not love the Beaufort Scales books more and this one was a joy from beginning to end. It did feel that the storyline got a little lost amongst the chaotic goings on and, unusually, there didn't seem to be quite enough cake but the quirky characters, the warmth, and the humour are more than enough to make up for that.
I feel that Kim M. Watt's beautiful writing can be easily underestimated in a book this funny but believe me that she weaves a powerful spell. Reading each one of the Beaufort Scales books feels like visiting old friends and, as with the others I have read, the ending made me cry.
Perfect reading for these ragged and uncertain times.
April 3, 2019
Another fun instalment in the lives of Beaufort, Mortimer and the Toot Hansell WI. Highly recommended for fans of cozy mysteries and dragons.
January 25, 2025
I really love this series! Each book lets you dive into this world more deeply, uncovers more Folk, gives more depth to the characters and deepens their bonds!
April 2, 2019
Hurray! Another visit to the Cloverly dragons and their friends in the Toot Hansell W.I.!
This time, the ladies, along with Beaufort, Mortimer (who I have decided is my spirit animal :)) and a very dubious D.I. Adams are having a relaxing spa weekend. Or at least, that was the plan...
But circumstances, as ever, mean that "relaxing" is far from the best word to describe the ensuing chaos, when various plots and plans of human and nonhuman folk collide amid a storm of Biblical proportions.
Hilarious, engaging, exciting and touching by turns (and sometimes all at once) and of course bolstered by oodles of tea and cake. Go and grab a copy and put the kettle on. You won't be sorry.
This time, the ladies, along with Beaufort, Mortimer (who I have decided is my spirit animal :)) and a very dubious D.I. Adams are having a relaxing spa weekend. Or at least, that was the plan...
But circumstances, as ever, mean that "relaxing" is far from the best word to describe the ensuing chaos, when various plots and plans of human and nonhuman folk collide amid a storm of Biblical proportions.
Hilarious, engaging, exciting and touching by turns (and sometimes all at once) and of course bolstered by oodles of tea and cake. Go and grab a copy and put the kettle on. You won't be sorry.
January 16, 2023
It pains me to rate this book so poorly, but…despite the fact that I still really love the main characters, the level of utter chaos in this instalment was far too deep into absurd territory for me to enjoy it as much as I did the others. I see I’m in the minority with regard to this, and I’m genuinely glad it worked for most readers, but I honestly felt like it was just a whole lot of screaming and running around pell mell and nearly every new character introduced in this volume was completely intolerable. Once you get about a fifth of the way in, it seems like everyone turns their dial up to ten and it stays there for the whole rest of the book, without giving us any time to breathe or think about anything, and sadly the “mystery” gets lost in the fray. However, the final page is so lovely and delightful and emotionally satisfying that it truly does make up for a lot of the grumbles I had while I was reading the rest (which really took far too long), but I can’t bring myself to rate it any higher than this. Hopefully the next one will be more suited to my taste
October 13, 2025
Another story with dragons
This time, the ladies of the WI are having a spa getaway at the manor house owned by Miriam’s sister. The property is inhabited by various folkloric creatures, including a “dandy,” a big, invisible dog seen only by DI Adams, who takes the dog home with her at story’s end. There are eco warriors protesting in the woods around the manor, relatives trying to dream up ways for the manor to make more money, and a sous-chef who is found dead in the sauna. Lots for the dragons and the ladies to take care of, which of course they do. Sweet and quirky, like the other books in this series.
This time, the ladies of the WI are having a spa getaway at the manor house owned by Miriam’s sister. The property is inhabited by various folkloric creatures, including a “dandy,” a big, invisible dog seen only by DI Adams, who takes the dog home with her at story’s end. There are eco warriors protesting in the woods around the manor, relatives trying to dream up ways for the manor to make more money, and a sous-chef who is found dead in the sauna. Lots for the dragons and the ladies to take care of, which of course they do. Sweet and quirky, like the other books in this series.
October 13, 2021
2021 bk 308. The Toots Hansel WI is back and at a spa. When an employee dies in a spa, the women and dragons are off to solve the mystery. A storm, anti hunting protestors and other events add confusion to the mix and the quiet weekend DI Adams is rushed off her feet trying to keep a handle on things. A fun book
December 19, 2023
Dragons doing yoga on a spa weekend? Murder mystery, an investigative cat, wine loving goblins and an indivisible dog all mixed in with lots of tea and cake? As always the Beaufort Scales series does not disappoint.
December 22, 2021
Dragons who stress eat scones, talking cats and the WI, what more could you want ?
March 2, 2024
Initial thoughts: "Meow. Meow meow meow." That cracked me up so much.
A fun story with so much misdirection, rain, Botox but not near enough cake. I'm looking forward to the next one.
A fun story with so much misdirection, rain, Botox but not near enough cake. I'm looking forward to the next one.
June 28, 2021
D.I. Adams thinks she's going to have a relaxing weekend with her friends (acquaintances anyway) from the Toot Hansell Women's Institute. How wrong can you be? As they seek to solve the murder (if it IS a murder) much more is revealed. With the usual mayhem and hilarity. And dragons.
April 10, 2019
This third installment of the Beaufort Scales mystery series finds author Kim M. Watt dropping her charming recurring characters into a traditional English country house mystery. Ms. Watt ticks all the boxes in classic fashion here: a mysterious death which may or may not be murder; a writhing mass of suspects, motives, and juicy subplots; a devasting storm that cuts everyone off from the outside world; and the harried and harassed Detective Inspector, trying desperate to maintain order and her own sanity throughout it all as she strives to solve the mystery.
Of course, in Ms. Watt’s world, things are always…complicated. Especially for DI Adams.
They’re complicated by the ladies of the Toot Hansel Women’s Institute, who are, to put it nicely, inveterate meddlers, jumping in to “help” DI Adams investigate. Always with the best of intentions, of course—in this case, because the suspects include a large portion of Miriam’s family, who either own/work at the manor house in question, or…well, to tell more would venture into spoiler territory.
They’re complicated by the inclusion of the Cloverly dragons. Yes, Beaufort and Mortimer are on a spa weekend with the WI, doing “youghurt” on the terrace, and encountering all manner of friendly (and not so friendly) Folk of the supernatural realms. And doing what they (or at least Beaufort) do best—meddling.
They’re complicated by Thompson, the snarky cat who is actually a member of The Watch, the supernatural police who keep the Folk and humans separated. But who nevertheless allows himself to be drawn into the general meddling and mayhem brought on by the WI and the dragons. Because along with DI Adams, someone has to step up and take charge…
There are some reveals in this tale I’ve been waiting for—like DI Adams first name, and an interesting look at several new species of Folk with whom the dragons interact. But the story does not resolve one of my most burning questions (Alice’s husband, anyone?), and it raises another--what the heck is the Dandy all about? And how will he impact DI Adams life?. And will we ever get a spot of romance between DI’s Adams and Collins? I’m all agog here, and I certainly hope that Ms. Watt provides the answers (and recipes) I’m craving in book four. Please???
A Manor of Life and Death has a quirky cast, a delightful sense of the absurd, and some unexpectedly deep insights on the nature of tea, cakes, and friendship. fOh, yes, and there’s a mystery. And dragons! To sum it all up, if you like cake, chaos, and cozy mysteries, this is the book (and series) for you. Because above all else, A Manor of Life and Death is just purely terrific fun.
Of course, in Ms. Watt’s world, things are always…complicated. Especially for DI Adams.
They’re complicated by the ladies of the Toot Hansel Women’s Institute, who are, to put it nicely, inveterate meddlers, jumping in to “help” DI Adams investigate. Always with the best of intentions, of course—in this case, because the suspects include a large portion of Miriam’s family, who either own/work at the manor house in question, or…well, to tell more would venture into spoiler territory.
They’re complicated by the inclusion of the Cloverly dragons. Yes, Beaufort and Mortimer are on a spa weekend with the WI, doing “youghurt” on the terrace, and encountering all manner of friendly (and not so friendly) Folk of the supernatural realms. And doing what they (or at least Beaufort) do best—meddling.
They’re complicated by Thompson, the snarky cat who is actually a member of The Watch, the supernatural police who keep the Folk and humans separated. But who nevertheless allows himself to be drawn into the general meddling and mayhem brought on by the WI and the dragons. Because along with DI Adams, someone has to step up and take charge…
There are some reveals in this tale I’ve been waiting for—like DI Adams first name, and an interesting look at several new species of Folk with whom the dragons interact. But the story does not resolve one of my most burning questions (Alice’s husband, anyone?), and it raises another--what the heck is the Dandy all about? And how will he impact DI Adams life?. And will we ever get a spot of romance between DI’s Adams and Collins? I’m all agog here, and I certainly hope that Ms. Watt provides the answers (and recipes) I’m craving in book four. Please???
A Manor of Life and Death has a quirky cast, a delightful sense of the absurd, and some unexpectedly deep insights on the nature of tea, cakes, and friendship. fOh, yes, and there’s a mystery. And dragons! To sum it all up, if you like cake, chaos, and cozy mysteries, this is the book (and series) for you. Because above all else, A Manor of Life and Death is just purely terrific fun.
March 6, 2021
A Manor of Life and Death by Kim M. Watt
Rating: 4,5/5 stars
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
DI Adams wanted to spend a relaxing spa weekend with the Toot Hansell Women’s Institute in an old manor, but soon she and the other guests find a dead body and a storm cuts them off from the rest of the world.
My thoughts:
It’s an entertaining and atmospheric mystery novel, which makes one crave cake and more books of this kind.
The story was again adorable and entertaining, though a bit slower this time. The ending was a bit too abrupt for my liking, but everything was cleared up nicely. Some things surprised me, but most of the time it was amusing to watch everybody panic.
The characters are adorable once again, I especially like the moments with Thompson and Godfrey. I also liked the new creatures, though I hope one will learn more about them in the next book (I mean, there will be one, right?) I also liked all the weird behaviour and habits from the other guests. It really was entertaining to watch.
The manor and its surrounding were sketched beautifully; I could imagine the scenery very well. It created a wonderful atmosphere for a little mystery.
The style is what I enjoyed most about this book. I felt as if I was standing at a window, watching the dark and grey world outside, hearing the rain pounding on the glass. I was surprised when I went outside to do the groceries and discovered that, in fact, we had sunshine and twenty degrees.
I also loved all the different perspectives, each distinct and entertaining and so very loveable.
Also, the cover looks adorable (It features the Peacock!) and the Coconut cake recipe sounds wonderful!
And so this novel earns four and a half stars.
Rating: 4,5/5 stars
I was given a copy of this book by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Synopsis:
DI Adams wanted to spend a relaxing spa weekend with the Toot Hansell Women’s Institute in an old manor, but soon she and the other guests find a dead body and a storm cuts them off from the rest of the world.
My thoughts:
It’s an entertaining and atmospheric mystery novel, which makes one crave cake and more books of this kind.
The story was again adorable and entertaining, though a bit slower this time. The ending was a bit too abrupt for my liking, but everything was cleared up nicely. Some things surprised me, but most of the time it was amusing to watch everybody panic.
The characters are adorable once again, I especially like the moments with Thompson and Godfrey. I also liked the new creatures, though I hope one will learn more about them in the next book (I mean, there will be one, right?) I also liked all the weird behaviour and habits from the other guests. It really was entertaining to watch.
The manor and its surrounding were sketched beautifully; I could imagine the scenery very well. It created a wonderful atmosphere for a little mystery.
The style is what I enjoyed most about this book. I felt as if I was standing at a window, watching the dark and grey world outside, hearing the rain pounding on the glass. I was surprised when I went outside to do the groceries and discovered that, in fact, we had sunshine and twenty degrees.
I also loved all the different perspectives, each distinct and entertaining and so very loveable.
Also, the cover looks adorable (It features the Peacock!) and the Coconut cake recipe sounds wonderful!
And so this novel earns four and a half stars.
August 6, 2020
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Yet another great installment in the ongoing tale of mystery-solving dragons, feisty old ladies, lots of baked goods, and the murder and mayhem that ensues!
When going away on a "relaxing" spa weekend with the ladies of the Toot Hansell W.I. (Women's Institute), once again DI Adams is swamped with mysteries, possible murder and dragons. Yup, she should have known better, lol!
Great fun, humour and excellent characters abound with a full supporting cast of rabid protesters, scheming families, hysterical chefs and a variety of Folk that help and hinder indiscriminately.
Thompson the mysterious and snarky Cat from Yule Be Sorry, is a welcome addition to the group, as is DI Colin Collins (don’t ask!) who becomes the far more laid-back side-kick to DI Adams, and another human who can see, and appreciate, the dragons (and other Folk).
I just loved the addition of DI Adams'
Yet another great installment in the ongoing tale of mystery-solving dragons, feisty old ladies, lots of baked goods, and the murder and mayhem that ensues!
When going away on a "relaxing" spa weekend with the ladies of the Toot Hansell W.I. (Women's Institute), once again DI Adams is swamped with mysteries, possible murder and dragons. Yup, she should have known better, lol!
Great fun, humour and excellent characters abound with a full supporting cast of rabid protesters, scheming families, hysterical chefs and a variety of Folk that help and hinder indiscriminately.
Thompson the mysterious and snarky Cat from Yule Be Sorry, is a welcome addition to the group, as is DI Colin Collins (don’t ask!) who becomes the far more laid-back side-kick to DI Adams, and another human who can see, and appreciate, the dragons (and other Folk).
I just loved the addition of DI Adams'
March 31, 2021
What a rollicking, side-splitting good read this is! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would! The world of Toot Hansell and the Women's Institute just got a little funnier, with more amazing adventures with new Folk to enjoy.
November 25, 2024
The first book of the Beaufort Scales Mysteries series was a sometimes flawed but overall enjoyable book, while the second one improved on the first in every way and I absolutely loved it, so I eagerly went into the third book. How did it measure up to the first two?
Man, this was a difficult book to judge. In a way, it doesn't measure up to the first two, but in other ways it really does measure up. The story changes the setting completely, as it now takes place in an old hotel owned by Miriam's sister, Maddie, as the ladies of the WI go there for a spa weekend, which they have done plenty of times before, except this time they invite DI Adams, and Beaufort and Mortimer tag along, the latter quite reluctantly. But when a person is found dead, an investigation must be made, which is made more difficult by everyone in the hotel being cut off from the rest of the world by a combination of a storm and a fallen tree blocking the road. The setting is really great, and I absolutely love a "closed circle" style of story, with everyone trapped by the elements and unable to leave. The book also gets some thrills in the form of a rescue during awfully stormy weather, and then a very worrisome disappearance that sees all the ladies have to step up and then some.
Most of the characters helped, too. The Wi were their usual selves, but while Alice still can be a bit too much of a know-it-al by insisting to get involved in investigations, her control freak tendencies were quite toned down in this book, while Miriam has continued to grow stronger and more capable in general so that's quite nice to see. DI Adams herself has mellowed out some, at the very least by how she accepted the invitation of the WI to join them for a spa weekend, showcasing that whatever differences they may have, the inspector is now most definitely a friend of the group. Beaufort is still his delightful self, and we get to see Mortimer really step up in this book, so that was quite a nice thing to see, plus we get a lot more Thompson in this book. We also get to see a lot more mythical creatures in this book, really expanding the fantasy aspect, which I most definitely welcome. Agatha was my favorite, I loved her rapport with Beaufort from what little we saw of her, and I really hope she shows up again in the future.
Of course, not all the characters can be capable, or likable, or have much of a presence. The family staying over, the kids are basically window dressing, the wife has some common sense, while the husband is a boor. The birdwatchers don't stand out much. Maddie's a great character, but her children are quite something, mainly Reid with his anger and belligerence, and Boyd with his very annoying tendency of spouting poetry that everyone hates, even in the most inopportune of times. But it was the protesters who stood out for all the wrong reasons. My word, these were among the most extremely annoying and infuriating characters I have ever read. They were protesting about the hotel, the lands, the possibility of animals and nature being injured. I normally don't mind that type fo character, but these people were just horrible with their behavior.
The protesters were a bunch of shrieking raging jerks to everyone, with constant insults, destruction of property, pelting people with balloons filled with a variety of sauces (balloons made form a material that could pollute and even kill animals, showing that these protesters are idiots, hypocrites, or both), and so many things. Chief among them was Judith (I refuse to call her by her stupid self-proclaimed name), who is Miriam and Maddie's sister, and who treats the both of them like they are the worst scum of the universe. Judith was the absolute worst character in the whole series thus far, she's a histrionic, extremely angry and utterly deranged pile of garbage, which fits her, she's just so trashy, crass and disgusting, the type of person who think they're always right and everyone else is wrong, and who thinks she can always win any situation by screaming at the top of her lungs and with insults and violence. That's right, these people at some points outright assault and injure other people! And they get away with it!! At that point, despite everyone hating their guts, Maddie was the only one who, very rightfully and no jury in the world would convict her, wanted to kick them out into the storm and let them fend for themselves (she had family and paying guests to care for and these maniacs were assaulting said family and guests). These protesters are the kind of characters you WANT to see get killed in a murder mystery, I honestly just kept muttering "Somebody please do everybody a favor and kill them already". I'm baffled that DI Adam didn't have them arrested or even restrained at any point.
Every single scene with the protesters was a huge annoyance to read through, because not only were they horrible people (they aren't even grateful to Di Adams for risking her life and saving one of them from drowning, instead they treat her even worse afterwards), but they never get punished for their actions, and even get rewarded in the end What in blazes?! They should be in prison at the very least after all they did! Honestly, had the protesters not been there or had people not bent over backwards to let them get away with their horrible behavior despite nobody liking them and had they been punished for their actions, this book would have been 4 or 5 stars, easily, because of the likable characters, the great setting, thrilling situations, mysteries, and a good dose of character development. But the protesters and their antics knocked the book's rating down hard. I'm giving it a three based on the strong points, but it was very close to a 2. Unfortunately, I see from synopsis of a future book that they show up yet again, so I'm not looking forward to that, but I'm certainly looking forward to the next book.
Man, this was a difficult book to judge. In a way, it doesn't measure up to the first two, but in other ways it really does measure up. The story changes the setting completely, as it now takes place in an old hotel owned by Miriam's sister, Maddie, as the ladies of the WI go there for a spa weekend, which they have done plenty of times before, except this time they invite DI Adams, and Beaufort and Mortimer tag along, the latter quite reluctantly. But when a person is found dead, an investigation must be made, which is made more difficult by everyone in the hotel being cut off from the rest of the world by a combination of a storm and a fallen tree blocking the road. The setting is really great, and I absolutely love a "closed circle" style of story, with everyone trapped by the elements and unable to leave. The book also gets some thrills in the form of a rescue during awfully stormy weather, and then a very worrisome disappearance that sees all the ladies have to step up and then some.
Most of the characters helped, too. The Wi were their usual selves, but while Alice still can be a bit too much of a know-it-al by insisting to get involved in investigations, her control freak tendencies were quite toned down in this book, while Miriam has continued to grow stronger and more capable in general so that's quite nice to see. DI Adams herself has mellowed out some, at the very least by how she accepted the invitation of the WI to join them for a spa weekend, showcasing that whatever differences they may have, the inspector is now most definitely a friend of the group. Beaufort is still his delightful self, and we get to see Mortimer really step up in this book, so that was quite a nice thing to see, plus we get a lot more Thompson in this book. We also get to see a lot more mythical creatures in this book, really expanding the fantasy aspect, which I most definitely welcome. Agatha was my favorite, I loved her rapport with Beaufort from what little we saw of her, and I really hope she shows up again in the future.
Of course, not all the characters can be capable, or likable, or have much of a presence. The family staying over, the kids are basically window dressing, the wife has some common sense, while the husband is a boor. The birdwatchers don't stand out much. Maddie's a great character, but her children are quite something, mainly Reid with his anger and belligerence, and Boyd with his very annoying tendency of spouting poetry that everyone hates, even in the most inopportune of times. But it was the protesters who stood out for all the wrong reasons. My word, these were among the most extremely annoying and infuriating characters I have ever read. They were protesting about the hotel, the lands, the possibility of animals and nature being injured. I normally don't mind that type fo character, but these people were just horrible with their behavior.
The protesters were a bunch of shrieking raging jerks to everyone, with constant insults, destruction of property, pelting people with balloons filled with a variety of sauces (balloons made form a material that could pollute and even kill animals, showing that these protesters are idiots, hypocrites, or both), and so many things. Chief among them was Judith (I refuse to call her by her stupid self-proclaimed name), who is Miriam and Maddie's sister, and who treats the both of them like they are the worst scum of the universe. Judith was the absolute worst character in the whole series thus far, she's a histrionic, extremely angry and utterly deranged pile of garbage, which fits her, she's just so trashy, crass and disgusting, the type of person who think they're always right and everyone else is wrong, and who thinks she can always win any situation by screaming at the top of her lungs and with insults and violence. That's right, these people at some points outright assault and injure other people! And they get away with it!! At that point, despite everyone hating their guts, Maddie was the only one who, very rightfully and no jury in the world would convict her, wanted to kick them out into the storm and let them fend for themselves (she had family and paying guests to care for and these maniacs were assaulting said family and guests). These protesters are the kind of characters you WANT to see get killed in a murder mystery, I honestly just kept muttering "Somebody please do everybody a favor and kill them already". I'm baffled that DI Adam didn't have them arrested or even restrained at any point.
Every single scene with the protesters was a huge annoyance to read through, because not only were they horrible people (they aren't even grateful to Di Adams for risking her life and saving one of them from drowning, instead they treat her even worse afterwards), but they never get punished for their actions, and even get rewarded in the end What in blazes?! They should be in prison at the very least after all they did! Honestly, had the protesters not been there or had people not bent over backwards to let them get away with their horrible behavior despite nobody liking them and had they been punished for their actions, this book would have been 4 or 5 stars, easily, because of the likable characters, the great setting, thrilling situations, mysteries, and a good dose of character development. But the protesters and their antics knocked the book's rating down hard. I'm giving it a three based on the strong points, but it was very close to a 2. Unfortunately, I see from synopsis of a future book that they show up yet again, so I'm not looking forward to that, but I'm certainly looking forward to the next book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2019
More fun with the Toot Hansell W. I. - and dragons.
The latest installment of the Beaufort Scales series sees the redoubtable ladies of the Toot Hansell Women's Institute on a relaxing spa weekend. And they've invited Detective Inspector Adams ... and two dragons. So it should come as no surprise to regular readers that relaxation doesn't actually happen. Instead there is a mysterious death, some very suspicious guests, some very obstreperous relatives, and an invisible dog. The ensuing chaos is as ever very funny, sometimes quite exciting, and always so readable one quite forgets it is a book, and not something happening right in front of you. Join Beaufort and Mortimer as they meet friends old and new in yet another uproarious tale from the amazingly talented Kim Watt. Step right in. There's cake!
The latest installment of the Beaufort Scales series sees the redoubtable ladies of the Toot Hansell Women's Institute on a relaxing spa weekend. And they've invited Detective Inspector Adams ... and two dragons. So it should come as no surprise to regular readers that relaxation doesn't actually happen. Instead there is a mysterious death, some very suspicious guests, some very obstreperous relatives, and an invisible dog. The ensuing chaos is as ever very funny, sometimes quite exciting, and always so readable one quite forgets it is a book, and not something happening right in front of you. Join Beaufort and Mortimer as they meet friends old and new in yet another uproarious tale from the amazingly talented Kim Watt. Step right in. There's cake!
November 17, 2020
This is the 3rd Cloverly dragons novel, and the funniest so far. While at a family hotel for a spa weekend with "yoghurt" lessons, as Lord Beaufort calls them (yoga), the dragons and the Toot Hansell W.I. are thrown into a whodunnit while a storm is raging outside. DI Adams is also there and is wrestling with an invisible dog on top of her other problems. Great read, big belly laughs interspersed with poignant moments and beautiful descriptions. I would love to stay in this hotel, if only to try Chef Nita's wonderful cooking. As usual, there are lovely recipes at the end. I must try the Fat Rascals.
May 3, 2023
It is not really badly written, but a little too tedious.
The reason why DI Adams thinks she should interfere in everything escapes me.
The reason why everything topples and falls to pieces when the dragons or the WI are somewhere also escapes me.
The DI wanting to save people who don't want or need to be saved and reacting absurdly to it. And the protesters were so incredibly overly obtuse that it became really annoying to read.
It just didn't work, and it became utterly chaotic every time for no reason.
The only thing that was funny was the Dandy. And he did have a really small part.
The reason why DI Adams thinks she should interfere in everything escapes me.
The reason why everything topples and falls to pieces when the dragons or the WI are somewhere also escapes me.
The DI wanting to save people who don't want or need to be saved and reacting absurdly to it. And the protesters were so incredibly overly obtuse that it became really annoying to read.
It just didn't work, and it became utterly chaotic every time for no reason.
The only thing that was funny was the Dandy. And he did have a really small part.
September 17, 2021
I love the Beaufort scales series, but this book didn't have the same feel. The arguments, bickering, and fighting between the family, staff, and police just felt mean-spirited. I did enjoy learning more about DI Adams and DI Collins and of course the recipes at the end of the book are always a treat.
March 6, 2024
Man, the protestors were annoying to have to listen to, and here we have the author's worst trait - repeating something ad nauseam. Other than that, sure, it was a quick read.
April 5, 2024
Phew! Thank goodness for the comforts of chaos Kim M Watt brings. I was in a reading slump, and needed a break from the romance section (*gasp*). Happily, I realised that I'd missed some Beaufort Scales books. They can be read as stand-alones, so it didn't overly matter that I read this out of order, although some things make more sense if you do.
The WI and the dragons decide to go on a spa weekend, dragging DI Adams along with them. Lovely country manor house. "Yoghurt" (yoga). What could go wrong?
Oh, you're new to this series, perhaps? Answer; only everything. LOL.
Fighting staff, dismal finances and a whole heap of shady guests. Throw in some protestors and many magickal folk, and you have even more chaos than usual. But whodunnit?
Poor DI Adams!
I thoroughly enjoyed this mayhem. It's more chaos mystery than cosy mystery, I reckon. It's like whack-a-mole - deal with one problem and someone else sticks their nose in. And although it gets rowdy, there's no graphic violence or swearing.
There is, fortunately, always a good supply of cake to get through it all.
Suddenly, my life feels a lot easier!?
I can't recommend this series enough, especially if you want a good laugh.
The WI and the dragons decide to go on a spa weekend, dragging DI Adams along with them. Lovely country manor house. "Yoghurt" (yoga). What could go wrong?
Oh, you're new to this series, perhaps? Answer; only everything. LOL.
Fighting staff, dismal finances and a whole heap of shady guests. Throw in some protestors and many magickal folk, and you have even more chaos than usual. But whodunnit?
Poor DI Adams!
I thoroughly enjoyed this mayhem. It's more chaos mystery than cosy mystery, I reckon. It's like whack-a-mole - deal with one problem and someone else sticks their nose in. And although it gets rowdy, there's no graphic violence or swearing.
There is, fortunately, always a good supply of cake to get through it all.
Suddenly, my life feels a lot easier!?
I can't recommend this series enough, especially if you want a good laugh.
September 5, 2021
Spas can be murder
D I Adams has been invited to a spa weekend with the ladies of the Toot Hansell W.I.. Miriam's sister, Maddie owns the converted house & is struggling to make ends meet. When Adams arrives, she finds two unexpected guests, Beaufort, High Lord of the Cloverly Dragons & his stressed out protege, Mortimer. When the recently hired sous chef is found dead in the sauna following an argument with one of Maddie's sons, Adams relaxing weekend turns into a nightmare investigation. Between suspects including a nosy reporter, weird birdwatchers & a fake American family plus involvement of the Folk, the dragons, the ladies of the W.I. & D I Adams, can they literally weather the storm to solve the mystery?
Along with a very excellent mystery is the humour & the bonds of friendship between determined humans & the magical Folk that inhabit this world. The Folk are real if you only expect to see them.
D I Adams has been invited to a spa weekend with the ladies of the Toot Hansell W.I.. Miriam's sister, Maddie owns the converted house & is struggling to make ends meet. When Adams arrives, she finds two unexpected guests, Beaufort, High Lord of the Cloverly Dragons & his stressed out protege, Mortimer. When the recently hired sous chef is found dead in the sauna following an argument with one of Maddie's sons, Adams relaxing weekend turns into a nightmare investigation. Between suspects including a nosy reporter, weird birdwatchers & a fake American family plus involvement of the Folk, the dragons, the ladies of the W.I. & D I Adams, can they literally weather the storm to solve the mystery?
Along with a very excellent mystery is the humour & the bonds of friendship between determined humans & the magical Folk that inhabit this world. The Folk are real if you only expect to see them.
September 23, 2021
A fun read again but honestly some of the characters frustrated me so much and no one listens to DI Adams, which frustrates me again! Ha.
Okay so this was a decent mystery and i liked the set up and all the new people, but Miriam’s relatives are all so annoying (apart from Collins who I like very much).
I did get very irritated with the protesters’ intransigence and although they had a point regarding Reid, they also bombarded anyone they disliked with water/cranberry jam bombs made from balloons. Balloons being a pollutant and danger to the wildlife they’re trying to preserve. Did no one think of pointing this out to them?
The end was exciting but also something I had to reread because I couldn’t work out who was doing what. It got a bit confusing but at the same time it was fun.
I liked the way everything was explained at the end with no huge denouement a la Poirot, but a cosy chat over cake.
And I’m very interested in Fat Rascals now. Must make them!
Okay so this was a decent mystery and i liked the set up and all the new people, but Miriam’s relatives are all so annoying (apart from Collins who I like very much).
I did get very irritated with the protesters’ intransigence and although they had a point regarding Reid, they also bombarded anyone they disliked with water/cranberry jam bombs made from balloons. Balloons being a pollutant and danger to the wildlife they’re trying to preserve. Did no one think of pointing this out to them?
The end was exciting but also something I had to reread because I couldn’t work out who was doing what. It got a bit confusing but at the same time it was fun.
I liked the way everything was explained at the end with no huge denouement a la Poirot, but a cosy chat over cake.
And I’m very interested in Fat Rascals now. Must make them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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