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Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries #2
Cupboards All Bared
“Page-turning addicting!” — The Ginger Morticia, Bookstagram Reviewer
In this sequel to Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, we're once again transported to Spokane, 1901. A body discovered in Hangman Creek looks to be the result of an accidental fall, but what begins as a "simple" mystery for Thomas Carew and his twin brother Bernard quickly becomes a lot more complicated, including implications that tie in with the bombings at the Idaho mines, and perhaps even President McKinley's planned visit. Not everyone is who you think they are, and the question of identity is asked once more in Cupboards All Bared.
Cupboards All Bared is Book Two in the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries.
In this sequel to Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, we're once again transported to Spokane, 1901. A body discovered in Hangman Creek looks to be the result of an accidental fall, but what begins as a "simple" mystery for Thomas Carew and his twin brother Bernard quickly becomes a lot more complicated, including implications that tie in with the bombings at the Idaho mines, and perhaps even President McKinley's planned visit. Not everyone is who you think they are, and the question of identity is asked once more in Cupboards All Bared.
Cupboards All Bared is Book Two in the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries.
334 pages, Paperback
Published May 17, 2022
5 people are currently reading
577 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Meredith
11 books94 followerslinktr.ee/pmeredithauthor
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
Patricia Meredith is an author of historical and cozy mysteries. When she’s not writing, she’s playing board games with her husband, creating imaginary worlds with her two children, or out in the garden reading a good book with a cup of tea. Patricia's first series, the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, is the product of uncovering fascinating local history circa 1901, making it the first historical mystery series set in Spokane, Washington. Her second series about Anna Katharine Green is the first and only historical fiction featuring the Mother of Detective Fiction. Her mysteries are clean, cozy reads known for their quirky yet believable characters.
Before taking the dive into mystery, Patricia Meredith was the fiction editor of over 20 novels and miscellaneous publications, working with magazines, businesses, and publishers on a variety of projects from art books (such as The Art of George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire) to fantasy novels (such as Rising Sun, Falling Shadows, winner of the 2013 Scribe Award for Best Original Novel). Her specialty is science-fiction and fantasy novels. She has worked with such names as George R.R. Martin, Tracy Hickman, and Graham McNeill. She launched the novel department for Fantasy Flight Games, so she also has experience in the behind-the-scenes of publication.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
March 16, 2023
I really enjoyed this follow-up! A period mystery done right. Patricia Meredith has reignited my love of mysteries. 1900 Spokane comes alive in this character-driven masterpiece. Taking place just a couple of months after Butcher Baker Candlestick Taker. We follow our police brothers as another murder has fallen onto their desks. The characterization is on point. The mystery isn’t easy to solve. I could only hazard a guess that wasn’t even entirely correct by the 80% mark. While not as good as Book 1 which I LOVED. This is still an amazing sequel.
Overall this book is delightful
Food description 5/5
Immersion 4.5/5
Story 4/5
Characterization 4.5/5
Mystery 4/5
Pacing 4/5
Structure 5/5
Prose 3.5/5 is very readable and enjoyable
Enjoyment 4.5/5
Overall this book is delightful
Food description 5/5
Immersion 4.5/5
Story 4/5
Characterization 4.5/5
Mystery 4/5
Pacing 4/5
Structure 5/5
Prose 3.5/5 is very readable and enjoyable
Enjoyment 4.5/5
February 21, 2023
And Patricia Meredith does it again! This second instalment in the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries series took everything that was good from book 1 and somehow cranked it all up a notch, it was fantastic!
We return to our favourite characters from book 1 as they find themselves wrapped up in another mind-boggling murder mystery. And if you thought the mystery in book 1 was confounding, then I suggest you buckle up, because this one kept me on my toes even more!
The absolute highlight of this series is 100% the delightful cast of characters though! These people (yes, they are absolutely real people in my mind, thank you very much) are just so well-realised and they all have SO much personality, I love them all!
It's such a wonderfully diverse motley crew and the relationships in this series are some of the best I have ever read, just so heartwarming and touching! Roselyn and Bernard are true relationship goals, we love to see it.
Also, I really appreciate how deeper themes of identity, disability and mental illness are explored in a very organic and authentic way through these characters' personal journeys. I especially love that we see two disabled characters who are in fact capable of living very full and fulfilling lives, that's so important and uplifting to see!
There is simply so much to love about this series, I just can't get enough! If you like historical mysteries with fantastic characters, murder and mayhem, excellent atmosphere and lots of heart, then this is the series for you!
We return to our favourite characters from book 1 as they find themselves wrapped up in another mind-boggling murder mystery. And if you thought the mystery in book 1 was confounding, then I suggest you buckle up, because this one kept me on my toes even more!
The absolute highlight of this series is 100% the delightful cast of characters though! These people (yes, they are absolutely real people in my mind, thank you very much) are just so well-realised and they all have SO much personality, I love them all!
It's such a wonderfully diverse motley crew and the relationships in this series are some of the best I have ever read, just so heartwarming and touching! Roselyn and Bernard are true relationship goals, we love to see it.
Also, I really appreciate how deeper themes of identity, disability and mental illness are explored in a very organic and authentic way through these characters' personal journeys. I especially love that we see two disabled characters who are in fact capable of living very full and fulfilling lives, that's so important and uplifting to see!
There is simply so much to love about this series, I just can't get enough! If you like historical mysteries with fantastic characters, murder and mayhem, excellent atmosphere and lots of heart, then this is the series for you!
March 25, 2025
There are so many good things I can say about this book. The twists and turns, the expert character development, and the pacing of the plot are all spectacularly crafted. And the food! I was constantly hungry while reading the book, just as I was with book one. Patricia Meredith continues to impress, and I can confidently say she’s a new favorite author. I also loved reading her historical notes about the time period, and how she utilized them. Another fantastic entry from a fantastic mystery author!
April 12, 2022
Absolutely brilliant!!! The second book in the series, I think, is even better than the first! Amazing historical information and the plot is page turning addicting to try to figure out! I can’t wait for book three!
I am so honored that Patricia has allowed me to be a part of her book releases! Her writing style is amazing! She brings forth mystery, history and thriller aspects perfectly!
A historical fiction series based in Spokane Wa, 1901.
A body is discovered that looks like an accidental fall, but what looks so simple a case is much more complex.
Duel personalities, conmen, and an assassination attempt on the president. This story has it all! Twin brothers, Detective Carew and officer Carew have their hands full figuring out what to do with their captured murderer from their last case and now another murder. Officer Carew and Clock Maker Archie are both interested in the same woman who also has a secret identity she isn’t sure she can let go of….
I am so honored that Patricia has allowed me to be a part of her book releases! Her writing style is amazing! She brings forth mystery, history and thriller aspects perfectly!
A historical fiction series based in Spokane Wa, 1901.
A body is discovered that looks like an accidental fall, but what looks so simple a case is much more complex.
Duel personalities, conmen, and an assassination attempt on the president. This story has it all! Twin brothers, Detective Carew and officer Carew have their hands full figuring out what to do with their captured murderer from their last case and now another murder. Officer Carew and Clock Maker Archie are both interested in the same woman who also has a secret identity she isn’t sure she can let go of….
March 16, 2023
5/5 Stars
I recieved a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Cupboards All Bared brings a captivating sequel to the Spokane Clocktower Mysteries. From a mysterious death, great character work, and delicious food, this was another binge worthy read.
Picking up one month after the events of Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, readers are brought back into the lives of the Carew brothers. When a body is discovered in Hangman Creek, the Carew brothers investigate what looks to be an accidental fall. Though it quickly turns into something bigger than they anticipated.
I found Cupboards All Bared to have different tone compared with Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker. Where the first book felt more mystery oriented, Cupboards All Bared balances the mystery with more focus on the characters. I personally loved getting to know the characters better and to see more of their history, relationship dynamics and how this impacts the story. There were also new characters to meet along the way, some of which were detestable or intriguing. Ultimately taking characters I enjoyed and turning them into characters I love.
Patricia Meredith’s passion for history and literature is clear within her stories. Creating her stories within historical events, places, and figures, while mixing in literary references appropriate for the period.
I can’t forget to mention the representation of disability and mental illness. Done in a way that’s appropriate for the period but also gives a nuanced depth to the characters.
I also read the physical book along with the audiobook. The narrator, Rebecca Cook, is quickly becoming one of my favorite narrators for her ability to capture the characters personalities.
With memorable characters, eerie moments, and an intriguing mystery this was a compelling read.
I recieved a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Cupboards All Bared brings a captivating sequel to the Spokane Clocktower Mysteries. From a mysterious death, great character work, and delicious food, this was another binge worthy read.
Picking up one month after the events of Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker, readers are brought back into the lives of the Carew brothers. When a body is discovered in Hangman Creek, the Carew brothers investigate what looks to be an accidental fall. Though it quickly turns into something bigger than they anticipated.
I found Cupboards All Bared to have different tone compared with Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker. Where the first book felt more mystery oriented, Cupboards All Bared balances the mystery with more focus on the characters. I personally loved getting to know the characters better and to see more of their history, relationship dynamics and how this impacts the story. There were also new characters to meet along the way, some of which were detestable or intriguing. Ultimately taking characters I enjoyed and turning them into characters I love.
Patricia Meredith’s passion for history and literature is clear within her stories. Creating her stories within historical events, places, and figures, while mixing in literary references appropriate for the period.
I can’t forget to mention the representation of disability and mental illness. Done in a way that’s appropriate for the period but also gives a nuanced depth to the characters.
I also read the physical book along with the audiobook. The narrator, Rebecca Cook, is quickly becoming one of my favorite narrators for her ability to capture the characters personalities.
With memorable characters, eerie moments, and an intriguing mystery this was a compelling read.
April 30, 2023
Book 2 is another hit! I'm so attached to these characters. They're all so unique and interesting. I love all the historical facts throughout the book. There were lots of twists and turns, which kept me guessing until the end. I also love the faith elements!
May 23, 2022
Patricia Meredith has done it again. A well-researched historical novel, with a cast of colorful characters, and a plot with twists and turns that satisfy. Take a trip back to what was an up and coming small city in the frontier west. Untangle a mystery with a good helping of intrigue. Get to know a wide variety of characters who may or may not be what they seem. Be sure you read Meredith’s Book One of the Spokane Clock Tower Mysteries, Butcher, Baker Candlestick Taker, beforehand as Cupboards All Bared builds on the first.
November 18, 2022
This is the second book in the Spokane Clocktower mysteries, and you really need to read them in order. But once you do, you will be hooked! This story in particular had such an interesting tie-in to President McKinley and his assassination. The characters are developing and feel like family to me! I love how her books have been laid out: not chapters really, but by days, with changing point-of-views each day. It makes it hard to put down, and a quick read! There were twists in this one I didn't expect! Looking forward to more by this author.
October 3, 2022
Patricia Meredith is a worthy successor to Agatha. Her stories are very well-crafted. I challenge you to stop a few chapters before the end and solve the mystery. I promise you won’t be quite right although all the clues were there to see. It’s fun to recognize places you know but you don’t have to be from the area to really enjoy this series. Eagerly awaiting Book 3
July 14, 2022
This next mystery in the Spokane Clocktower series was a joy to read. Meredith flawlessly reintroduces us to the characters from her first novel and adds more depth by showing flaws, hopes, and fears. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is the teamwork. The author has done a fantastic job using each of the characters’ aspects to come together to solve the mystery. I LOVE teamwork storylines (eg Avengers, Avatar TLA, DND, etc), so when I saw how this mystery was coming along, I was 1000% down for it. Another aspect that I come to love about Meredith’s books is the amount of historical facts are interwoven and the section at the back where she reveals which parts are based on or are real events, headlines, people, etc.
Grab a blueberry scone, a large cup of earl grey, and brace yourself to rejoin these beloved characters as they get tangled up in yet another mystery.
Grab a blueberry scone, a large cup of earl grey, and brace yourself to rejoin these beloved characters as they get tangled up in yet another mystery.
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October 6, 2023Thank you, dear Readers, for reading my book and leaving a review! If you’d like to learn more about the history behind the mystery, check out my website at Patricia-Meredith.com and my YouTube channel @pmeredithauthor.
Be sure to continue the journey into 1901 Spokane with Book 3, Crazy Maids in a Row!
Be sure to continue the journey into 1901 Spokane with Book 3, Crazy Maids in a Row!
October 17, 2023
Rating: 2.25 / 5 ⭐
I kind of read the Carew brothers as being silly bumbling idiot detectives in the first book... but the way they're written in this book seems like they're not supposed to be silly and bumbling? They're just dumb and keep comparing themselves to Sherlock and Watson. It got a bit annoying and they're a much bigger part of this book.
Also, what is with authors and their obsession with food? Do we really need every character to trip over themselves about every bit of food.
I'm also not sure making the mass murderer (from the previous book) be someone with multiple personality disorder, is a good look...
The ending:
If you didn't mind the detective brothers in the first book, then this might work for you, but it didn't for me.
Content Warnings (not exhaustive):
-Graphic:
-Moderate: murder
-Minor:
I kind of read the Carew brothers as being silly bumbling idiot detectives in the first book... but the way they're written in this book seems like they're not supposed to be silly and bumbling? They're just dumb and keep comparing themselves to Sherlock and Watson. It got a bit annoying and they're a much bigger part of this book.
Also, what is with authors and their obsession with food? Do we really need every character to trip over themselves about every bit of food.
I'm also not sure making the mass murderer (from the previous book) be someone with multiple personality disorder, is a good look...
The ending:
If you didn't mind the detective brothers in the first book, then this might work for you, but it didn't for me.
Content Warnings (not exhaustive):
-Graphic:
-Moderate: murder
-Minor:
January 14, 2023
A fantastic read! I am falling even more in love with all of the characters. I loved learning more about Roselyn - she is a character that really sticks with me because of her intelligence, beauty (inside and out), and ability to read others. The mystery was thoughtful and pulled at my heartstrings. I can't wait to read the next one!
January 5, 2024
First 5 star read of 2024! I love the painstakingly detailed history in these books! The humor translates amazingly and for being a period piece is a joy to read (or listen to) especially for the modern reader. The mysteries are head scratching and enjoyable as they should be! Also the underlying story is why I'll be running to book #3 as soon as I can!
March 26, 2025
A wonderful sequel to Butcher, Baker, Candlestick Taker. I love these characters (especially Archie). A well written mystery that keeps you guessing, even when you think you know what’s going on. Looking forward to book 3, and hopefully I won’t wait quite so long in between as I did with book 1.
December 29, 2023
better that book one
January 17, 2025
Series set in Spokane, easy read
June 22, 2024
Really wonderful way to enjoy the history of Spokane.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews