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Peach Coast Library Mystery #2
Murder Out of Character
"...an intrepid heroine who rushes headlong into danger to keep her friends safe, and a happily-ever-after ending make this the prose equivalent of a Hallmark family movie. Lovers of small-town cozies can while away a pleasant afternoon with this one." -Publishers Weekly
Marvey, a small-town librarian,
finds a mysterious list of names…
and what happens next can’t be a coincidence!
If you love Hallmark mystery movies,
you’ll love this cozy mystery
with humor, intrigue, and a hint of romance.
Marvey, still adjusting to life in Peach Coast, Georgia, is at a library fundraising event when she comes across a list of four names. One is the name of someone who recently died—and who may have been murdered. Another is Spencer Holt, the handsome newspaper owner who’s become one of Marvey’s best friends.
The four people appear to have nothing in common other than living in Peach Coast. Spencer dismisses the list at first, but before long, he has to admit he may be in danger. As Marvey prepares for a visit from her parents, can she, Spencer, and their intrepid librarian friends stop a killer bent on long overdue revenge?
Marvey, a small-town librarian,
finds a mysterious list of names…
and what happens next can’t be a coincidence!
If you love Hallmark mystery movies,
you’ll love this cozy mystery
with humor, intrigue, and a hint of romance.
Marvey, still adjusting to life in Peach Coast, Georgia, is at a library fundraising event when she comes across a list of four names. One is the name of someone who recently died—and who may have been murdered. Another is Spencer Holt, the handsome newspaper owner who’s become one of Marvey’s best friends.
The four people appear to have nothing in common other than living in Peach Coast. Spencer dismisses the list at first, but before long, he has to admit he may be in danger. As Marvey prepares for a visit from her parents, can she, Spencer, and their intrepid librarian friends stop a killer bent on long overdue revenge?
301 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 13, 2022
22 people are currently reading
632 people want to read
About the author
Olivia Matthews
21 books243 followersOlivia Matthews is a pseudonym for Patricia Sargeant.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
September 3, 2022
This is an excellent story set in the Peach Coast Library in Georgia. Marvey is a librarian but also an amateur sleuth so when not one but two well known citizens are murdered, and her best friend's life is threatened, she gathers her team of librarians to investigate the case.
This is an intriguing mystery with many possibilities. The characters are interesting and it is a fun look at the Southern lifestyle from a New Yorker's point of view. I will be watching out for more books from this author.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is an intriguing mystery with many possibilities. The characters are interesting and it is a fun look at the Southern lifestyle from a New Yorker's point of view. I will be watching out for more books from this author.
My thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
September 15, 2022
Murder Out of Character is the second in the series. I really enjoyed this book and the characters. Marvella (Marvey) Harris is the main character, She is the Director of Library Community Engagement for the Peach Coast Library. in Peach Coast, Georgia. She and the other employees at the library are hosting the first summer solicitation drive cocktail party fundraiser. When cleaning up after the party Marvey comes across a hit list with four people on it. Hank Figg, Nelle Kenton, Brittany Wilson and her best friend Spence Holt. She takes the list to Spence to show it to him, Hank was the head coach of the boys basketball team at the high school who died of a heart attack. After the party Nelle died. It was determined that both of them had been poisoned, They take the list to the police but the police don't believe there is anything to the list. Marvey is determined to protect Spence so he is not killed. This is where the story takes the reader on an adventure to find out who killed Hank and Nelle and why. The story builds up to an exciting ending.
I am looking forward to the next in the series and to see the development of the relationship between Marvey and Spence.
Thank you NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for this ARC.
I am looking forward to the next in the series and to see the development of the relationship between Marvey and Spence.
Thank you NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for this ARC.
December 3, 2023
Murder Out of Character is the second installment of the Peach Coast Library series. This cozy mystery is entertaining and enjoyable with a strong female protagonist. All of the characters are engaging as clues are uncovered leading to a compelling whodunnit. The narration perfectly brought the story to life adding a layer of suspense and intrigue. Thank you, NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for my audiobook.
May 15, 2022
Cozy mystery readers will enjoy this story. Protagonist, Marvey Harris, Director of Community Engagement at the Peach Coast Library is a delightful, strong female character. I like her friend, Spence, the editor of the local newspaper, and usually a voice of reason. Along with a great library staff and other friends, Marvey and Spence quickly make headway in this double murder mystery with clues dating back to their high school years. Could someone on the suspect list be set on avenging a past quarrel?
Great storytelling and a likeable cast highlight this cozy mystery. I feel a bond with the characters, and enjoy the small southern town in its Georgia setting. Clues are dropped throughout the story to help readers guess whodunnit. I can hardly wait for the next story to spend more time with these entertaining characters. The author includes delicious recipes.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing. All opinions are my own.
Great storytelling and a likeable cast highlight this cozy mystery. I feel a bond with the characters, and enjoy the small southern town in its Georgia setting. Clues are dropped throughout the story to help readers guess whodunnit. I can hardly wait for the next story to spend more time with these entertaining characters. The author includes delicious recipes.
I honestly reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing. All opinions are my own.
September 18, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media, Hallmark Publishing for accepting my request to audibly read and review Murder Out of Character.
Author: Olivia Matthews
Published: 09/13/22
Narrator: Janina Edwards
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
With much respect to the author, I do not recall any profanity, and I am appreciative. This does feel like a cozy mystery. I would recommend, gift, and donate this book.
For those who are audible readers and calculate listening time, please note I did have an issue with the narration. It was quickly rectified by lowering the rate of speed. This is one of a handful of books where I stayed at 1.0. My typical is 1.75 with a rare 2.0 rate.
The narrator was friendly, I visualized her getting along really well with Jessica Fletcher.
This is the second book of the series. I was okay with it being a stand alone story. However, I do wonder what little things I missed by not reading book one.
The series centers around Marvey, the town librarian and part-time sleuth, and of course her local pals. It takes place in Georgia. Marvey made herself known to the town by doing a Library sale. She had moved from, I believe New York. Anything else is a spoiler.
This would make a nice nursing home listening activity with a salad and dessert. (Food makes everything nice.) I'm giving 3.5 stars, not rounding up as I have not read book one. I don't want to embarrass myself or you by assuming the lovely portions in book two are a series standard.
Author: Olivia Matthews
Published: 09/13/22
Narrator: Janina Edwards
Genre: Mystery & Thrillers
With much respect to the author, I do not recall any profanity, and I am appreciative. This does feel like a cozy mystery. I would recommend, gift, and donate this book.
For those who are audible readers and calculate listening time, please note I did have an issue with the narration. It was quickly rectified by lowering the rate of speed. This is one of a handful of books where I stayed at 1.0. My typical is 1.75 with a rare 2.0 rate.
The narrator was friendly, I visualized her getting along really well with Jessica Fletcher.
This is the second book of the series. I was okay with it being a stand alone story. However, I do wonder what little things I missed by not reading book one.
The series centers around Marvey, the town librarian and part-time sleuth, and of course her local pals. It takes place in Georgia. Marvey made herself known to the town by doing a Library sale. She had moved from, I believe New York. Anything else is a spoiler.
This would make a nice nursing home listening activity with a salad and dessert. (Food makes everything nice.) I'm giving 3.5 stars, not rounding up as I have not read book one. I don't want to embarrass myself or you by assuming the lovely portions in book two are a series standard.
August 24, 2022
Revenge really is a dish best served cold! If the killer in this book is to be caught, the characters need to think outside the box! Who better to think outside the box than a librarian, newspaper man, accountant and bookstore owner! This cast of characters is so well curated that you want to head to Peach Cove to see the town and meet the characters, if only it were a real place and they were real people! I love the main character being a transplant to the south from New York and having to figure out how to fit in with the slow moving, overly polite small talk of the native southerners. The wit of the writing is fun and often inspires laughing out loud as the main character navigates the southern slang and sayings that she encounters. The narrator does such an outstanding job of bringing the unique personalities of the characters to life! I highly recommend you go the audiobook route!
You really need to start with book one to fully get to know the characters and town as well as to have full enjoyment of the books, but you could enjoy this book as a stand-alone, but why miss out??? I can't wait for the author to release the next audiobook in the series!
You really need to start with book one to fully get to know the characters and town as well as to have full enjoyment of the books, but you could enjoy this book as a stand-alone, but why miss out??? I can't wait for the author to release the next audiobook in the series!
September 11, 2022
I liked book 1 better, but I did like this book. Cozies are hard for me because although I read a lot of mysteries and thrillers and I want to support my fellow Black authors, they’re surface and at times so cute they’re nonsensical. An average citizen solving a crime and besting well-trained members of the police force will never make sense to me. BUT ANYWAY, on to the thoughts about this book.
I have to say, I did not see the killer coming until I was nearly to the end, which is either good (the killer was hidden well, in plain sight) or bad (there was not enough breadcrumbing to give hints or clues). The mystery itself and the catalyst for the murders seemed thin to me— but again I read hard stuff so maybe it works for cozy readers. It can’t be too vicious.
I had hoped for way fewer references to New York in this one but it seemed like there were more in this one. They do not bring me joy.
Little nits here and there tell me this book could have used another round of fluffing out. Not using specifics — like how much was the donations to the library?— was annoying enough to remember the next day.
Also a few of those southern sayings and euphemisms go a long way.
You’re wondering what I DID like? Oh, ok.
The cat, always the cat.
Spence- sweet guy. I loved that he and Marvey watched out for each other
Marvey’s fam- her brother made me laugh, her parents were sweet people and even got in on the investigative action
The town- I love when the setting is a character in itself. Peach Coast sounds like a delightful place to live. If only people weren’t dying left and right.
The story- I mean… it’s a cute cozy, meant to be light, not too serious, charming and entertaining. Mission accomplished!
I have to say, I did not see the killer coming until I was nearly to the end, which is either good (the killer was hidden well, in plain sight) or bad (there was not enough breadcrumbing to give hints or clues). The mystery itself and the catalyst for the murders seemed thin to me— but again I read hard stuff so maybe it works for cozy readers. It can’t be too vicious.
I had hoped for way fewer references to New York in this one but it seemed like there were more in this one. They do not bring me joy.
Little nits here and there tell me this book could have used another round of fluffing out. Not using specifics — like how much was the donations to the library?— was annoying enough to remember the next day.
Also a few of those southern sayings and euphemisms go a long way.
You’re wondering what I DID like? Oh, ok.
The cat, always the cat.
Spence- sweet guy. I loved that he and Marvey watched out for each other
Marvey’s fam- her brother made me laugh, her parents were sweet people and even got in on the investigative action
The town- I love when the setting is a character in itself. Peach Coast sounds like a delightful place to live. If only people weren’t dying left and right.
The story- I mean… it’s a cute cozy, meant to be light, not too serious, charming and entertaining. Mission accomplished!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2022
“Murder Out of Character” the 2nd instalment in A Peach Coast Library Mystery series by Olivia Matthews set in the small town of Peach Coast, Georgia. What a great follow up to book one!
Marvey, a small-town librarian, finds a mysterious list of names…
and what happens next can’t be a coincidence!
I really enjoyed this story, and visiting with Marvey, Spence, Jo and the rest of the library staff again. I love the small town charm, the hint of romance between Marvey and Spence and I really love Phoenix her grey tabby cat.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, with just the right amount of twists and turns. Overall this was an entertaining, fun easy read.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends. I am looking forward to future books in this series.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Hallmark Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Marvey, a small-town librarian, finds a mysterious list of names…
and what happens next can’t be a coincidence!
I really enjoyed this story, and visiting with Marvey, Spence, Jo and the rest of the library staff again. I love the small town charm, the hint of romance between Marvey and Spence and I really love Phoenix her grey tabby cat.
The mystery is interesting, well plotted, with just the right amount of twists and turns. Overall this was an entertaining, fun easy read.
I recommend this book to all my cozy lover friends. I am looking forward to future books in this series.
I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Hallmark Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 19, 2022
I enjoyed this story because the setting appeals to me. I love the idea of a small town library and its impact on the community. Marvey is fundraising and getting things accomplished for her library and making a name for herself. The mystery was interesting but I felt it dragged a little bit. There's something that doesn't sit well with me with this series and I can't quite figure out what it is. It might be the overly cutesy and somewhat inauthentic interactions with the characters. The party at the end seemed over the top and unnecessary. Other than that, this was a good read and I will continue with the series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for an honest review.
December 8, 2022
Fun - Entertaining - Cozy Mystery! You get Libraries and Books - Quaint Small Southern Town with Pralines Recipe - Librarian/Detective want to be - Quirky Characters - Handsome Hunk - Light Romance!
Author Olivia Matthews does an incredible job of describing the settings and the characters including their southern speech and mannerisms. This is a Hallmark Mystery, published through Hallmark Publishing, so no foul language or violence. This is simply a well written mystery set in a small town called Peach Coast, Georgia. It is second in Matthews' Peach Coast Library Series' - but it can be can be read as a stand-a-lone. I enjoyed the 1st one - 'Murder Out of Character'! I will continue to read her new installments to the series. It is like watching a Hallmark Movie!
Author Olivia Matthews does an incredible job of describing the settings and the characters including their southern speech and mannerisms. This is a Hallmark Mystery, published through Hallmark Publishing, so no foul language or violence. This is simply a well written mystery set in a small town called Peach Coast, Georgia. It is second in Matthews' Peach Coast Library Series' - but it can be can be read as a stand-a-lone. I enjoyed the 1st one - 'Murder Out of Character'! I will continue to read her new installments to the series. It is like watching a Hallmark Movie!
October 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this second book in the Peach Coast Library mystery series. Marvey Harris is settling in to her new life. She loves her small home, her job at the Library , her colleagues and her friends. She has some new fundraising plans and with her kickoff a success everything is right in her world, until while cleaning up after the party, she finds a list with four names on it, one of the people had just died under mysterious conditions and when a second is killed after the kickoff party Marvey starts to panic as one of the names left on the list is her good friend Spence and she is determined no harm will come to him. Can Marvey with the help of her friends and colleagues figure out what's really going on or does someone else have to die first?
September 21, 2022
You're a librarian and Community Engagement Director for the Peach Coast Library. You discover a list of four people, including your friend, Spencer. Hopefully, you're looking at a fundraising list but soon you find out it may be a "death list". What's your next step! If you're Marvey Harris - librarian and director, you use your sleuthing skills to uncover a murderer!
What a fun mystery! Marvey is a relatable and smart character I loved. Her relationship with her brother, friends and parents are realistic and fun to read. The mystery kept me guessing with red herrings galore! I enjoyed the descriptions of small town life and the characters who live in Peach.Coast
Settle in with this small town mystery you'll love - I guarantee you'll be ready for Marvey's next mystery!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
What a fun mystery! Marvey is a relatable and smart character I loved. Her relationship with her brother, friends and parents are realistic and fun to read. The mystery kept me guessing with red herrings galore! I enjoyed the descriptions of small town life and the characters who live in Peach.Coast
Settle in with this small town mystery you'll love - I guarantee you'll be ready for Marvey's next mystery!
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 28, 2022
Transplanted from her native Brooklyn, librarian Marvey Harris is trying to raise funds for the Peach Coast library when she finds a list of four names. One of the people listed is dead; a second dies within a few days. The remaining names are a local businesswoman and the prince of the town, a young man whose family owns several businesses and who is, it seems, loved by all. Does that include Marvey? Well, not that she'll admit yet, but he is a good friend and if his name appears on a hit list, no one can figure out why--or what the four names have in common. Marvey is also the focus for her parents' concern, so much so that they fly down from Brooklyn to make sure Georgia is a safe place for their little girl.
March 28, 2022
Thank you Netgalley and Hallmark Publishing for an advance copy of Murder Out of Character by Olivia Matthews.
This is the second book in the Peach Coast Library Mysteries series although I did not read the first one, I was able to read this book without complaints since the mystery is contained to this book. Murder Out of Character is a cozy mystery which is my favorite genre in mystery. The mystery kept me guessing. I didn’t figure it out until later in the book which is a big plus for me. I hate solving the murder before the main character.
While Murder Out of Character had all the hallmarks of a cozy (amateur sleuths solving a mystery), I felt that the characters were not as developed as most cozy mystery characters. There were also a lot of characters to follow and due to the lack of development I had certain characters confused. This may have been because I have not read the first book or it may be that there were too many librarians without distinct characteristics to keep it clear.
Marvey was a strong female lead. I enjoyed her life on Peach Coast, Georgia and look forward to see what happens with her relationship with her friends there.
Marvey’s supporting casts were as I mentioned a bit complicated. I liked that they worked at a library but I would like to know more about each character aside from their looks. Marvey’s parents were my least favorite characters in the books. I get that they were nervous about their adult daughter moving across the country to a new job, but subscribing to the newspaper so they could keep tabs on the town seemed a bit much. Her parents while quirky irritated me.
The descriptions of Peach Coast, Georgia made me want to visit the small town and reminded me of Georgia coastal towns I had visited before.
Overall, the book was a fun cozy mystery. I wish the characters had a bit more development. I will likely read book one to see if these issues were fixed in book one and may be fixed when Murder Out of Character is published in September.
I never comment on grammatical errors in a book. I know that no one is perfect and even big publishing companies have errors. While this book is an advanced copy that is not ready for publication, there were multiple errors throughout the book which made it challenging to read. I am sure Hallmark Publishing will have those errors fixed before publication.
This is the second book in the Peach Coast Library Mysteries series although I did not read the first one, I was able to read this book without complaints since the mystery is contained to this book. Murder Out of Character is a cozy mystery which is my favorite genre in mystery. The mystery kept me guessing. I didn’t figure it out until later in the book which is a big plus for me. I hate solving the murder before the main character.
While Murder Out of Character had all the hallmarks of a cozy (amateur sleuths solving a mystery), I felt that the characters were not as developed as most cozy mystery characters. There were also a lot of characters to follow and due to the lack of development I had certain characters confused. This may have been because I have not read the first book or it may be that there were too many librarians without distinct characteristics to keep it clear.
Marvey was a strong female lead. I enjoyed her life on Peach Coast, Georgia and look forward to see what happens with her relationship with her friends there.
Marvey’s supporting casts were as I mentioned a bit complicated. I liked that they worked at a library but I would like to know more about each character aside from their looks. Marvey’s parents were my least favorite characters in the books. I get that they were nervous about their adult daughter moving across the country to a new job, but subscribing to the newspaper so they could keep tabs on the town seemed a bit much. Her parents while quirky irritated me.
The descriptions of Peach Coast, Georgia made me want to visit the small town and reminded me of Georgia coastal towns I had visited before.
Overall, the book was a fun cozy mystery. I wish the characters had a bit more development. I will likely read book one to see if these issues were fixed in book one and may be fixed when Murder Out of Character is published in September.
I never comment on grammatical errors in a book. I know that no one is perfect and even big publishing companies have errors. While this book is an advanced copy that is not ready for publication, there were multiple errors throughout the book which made it challenging to read. I am sure Hallmark Publishing will have those errors fixed before publication.
September 10, 2022
I read the first book in this series and remembered liking it but honestly I remember nothing about the book at all. This new installment I had a feeling I wouldn’t like from the start....
Starting with a fundraising event and an excessive amount of details and people who I won’t remember. Aside from that it just started off incredibly boring. I’ve watched a lot of Hallmark Movies & Mysteries which are generally based off cozy mystery series. You know where some busybody woman thinks she knows best and gets involved in things she shouldn’t only to inevitably end up putting herself in danger. She typically has some kind of pet and has friends that will discourage her from getting involved but will also aide in her shenanigans. It’s formulaic and it works obviously since people like cozy mysteries.
This time librarian Marvey involves herself after finding a list of names at the library event. One person on the list has recently died and now another has died and since one of her friends is on the list she goes into full busybody mode. She immediately decides that this list must be a hit list and HAD to protect her friend Spencer who she has a crush on like she’s a 15 year old girl writing his names with hearts in a notebook (to be clear that didn’t happen but that’s what her crush feels like to me).
It’s boring just boring and slow going and Marvey is kind of annoying. And seriously there isn’t a detail that isn’t described excessively in this book. Every room someone enters ever street they walk on everything they are wearing must be written out in detail.
If you didn’t read the first book this is fine stand-alone though. If you want a tedious amount of detail and an annoying amount of random people you likely won’t care about, and a busybody woman who has magical powers of observation and behaves more like a teenager than a grown adult... then this is the book for you.
Starting with a fundraising event and an excessive amount of details and people who I won’t remember. Aside from that it just started off incredibly boring. I’ve watched a lot of Hallmark Movies & Mysteries which are generally based off cozy mystery series. You know where some busybody woman thinks she knows best and gets involved in things she shouldn’t only to inevitably end up putting herself in danger. She typically has some kind of pet and has friends that will discourage her from getting involved but will also aide in her shenanigans. It’s formulaic and it works obviously since people like cozy mysteries.
This time librarian Marvey involves herself after finding a list of names at the library event. One person on the list has recently died and now another has died and since one of her friends is on the list she goes into full busybody mode. She immediately decides that this list must be a hit list and HAD to protect her friend Spencer who she has a crush on like she’s a 15 year old girl writing his names with hearts in a notebook (to be clear that didn’t happen but that’s what her crush feels like to me).
It’s boring just boring and slow going and Marvey is kind of annoying. And seriously there isn’t a detail that isn’t described excessively in this book. Every room someone enters ever street they walk on everything they are wearing must be written out in detail.
If you didn’t read the first book this is fine stand-alone though. If you want a tedious amount of detail and an annoying amount of random people you likely won’t care about, and a busybody woman who has magical powers of observation and behaves more like a teenager than a grown adult... then this is the book for you.
July 13, 2022
Happy to see this 2nd in the Peach Coast Mystery series. The main character Marvel has settled in Georgia after her move from NY.. If you are a lover of Hallmark Mysteries you will love this series. The mystery is solid, their are signs of promise of a new romance and librarians are featured....perfect for all cozy mystery affectioniados
. My only con was the level of parental involvement for Marvey's age. I hope the series does continue and/or be on the Hallmark Mystery channel.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Hallmark Publishing and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. It publishes on 9/13/22
. My only con was the level of parental involvement for Marvey's age. I hope the series does continue and/or be on the Hallmark Mystery channel.
Thanks so much to Netgalley, Hallmark Publishing and the author for the opportunity to read and review this book. It publishes on 9/13/22
August 20, 2022
Book Title: Murder out of Character
Series: Peach Coast Library Mystery #2
Author: Olivia Matthews
Audiobook Narrator: Janina Edwards
Publisher: Dreamscape Media ~ Hallmark Publishing
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Pub Date: September 13, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars
Protagonist Marvella (Marvey) Harris is the Director of Library Community Engagement for the Peach Coast Library. in Peach Coast, Georgia. She and the other employees at the library are hosting the first summer solicitation drive cocktail party. When cleaning up after the fundraising event Marvey comes across a hit list with names of four people: Hank Figg, Nelle Kenton, Brittany Wilson and her best friend Spence Holt. She and committee members take to the list to the police but they believe is it only a prank.
This is one of my most enjoyable cozy reads.
I enjoy Cozy Mysteries and usually pick one when I am looking for a fun light read with a little twist.
This one was more complicated and kept me interested!
The narrator Janina Edward has such a pleasant voice it was enjoyable to listen to her performing the characters!
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media ~ Hallmark Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 13, 202
Series: Peach Coast Library Mystery #2
Author: Olivia Matthews
Audiobook Narrator: Janina Edwards
Publisher: Dreamscape Media ~ Hallmark Publishing
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Pub Date: September 13, 2022
My Rating: 4 Stars
Protagonist Marvella (Marvey) Harris is the Director of Library Community Engagement for the Peach Coast Library. in Peach Coast, Georgia. She and the other employees at the library are hosting the first summer solicitation drive cocktail party. When cleaning up after the fundraising event Marvey comes across a hit list with names of four people: Hank Figg, Nelle Kenton, Brittany Wilson and her best friend Spence Holt. She and committee members take to the list to the police but they believe is it only a prank.
This is one of my most enjoyable cozy reads.
I enjoy Cozy Mysteries and usually pick one when I am looking for a fun light read with a little twist.
This one was more complicated and kept me interested!
The narrator Janina Edward has such a pleasant voice it was enjoyable to listen to her performing the characters!
Want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media ~ Hallmark Publishing for this early eGalley.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for September 13, 202
November 7, 2022
New York City transplant Marvella "Marvey" Harris works for the Peach Coast, Georgia, library as their fundraising and marketing lead. She's kind, compassionate, and has two good friends in Jolene "Jo" Gomez, bookstore owner, and Spencer Holt, journalist and businessman.
In the first book, Marvey had worked hard to clear Jo's name when Jo had been accused of murder. Here, during a fundraising event, Marvey stumbles upon a list with four people's names on it, one of whom is already dead, and another soon to be, which is unnerving, but what really sets Marvey off on her new investigation is Spencer's name is also on the list.
Marvey works tirelessly considering possible suspects' backgrounds and motives, while trying to keep Spencer safe and her concerned parents from finding out that she's investigating again.
Marvey is just so darned likeable. I love how much she cares for others, and feels for them when they are happy or hurting. That she would immediately jump from concern for the people whose names appeared on the list to investigating made sense, especially given how reluctant the police were to take the threat seriously. I also liked how she enlisted the help of her fellow librarians considering suspects, even while she was working hard to raise funds for the library.
As liked this book, I'll have to check out Marvey's first adventure as a recent Peach Coast resident.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Hallmark Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
In the first book, Marvey had worked hard to clear Jo's name when Jo had been accused of murder. Here, during a fundraising event, Marvey stumbles upon a list with four people's names on it, one of whom is already dead, and another soon to be, which is unnerving, but what really sets Marvey off on her new investigation is Spencer's name is also on the list.
Marvey works tirelessly considering possible suspects' backgrounds and motives, while trying to keep Spencer safe and her concerned parents from finding out that she's investigating again.
Marvey is just so darned likeable. I love how much she cares for others, and feels for them when they are happy or hurting. That she would immediately jump from concern for the people whose names appeared on the list to investigating made sense, especially given how reluctant the police were to take the threat seriously. I also liked how she enlisted the help of her fellow librarians considering suspects, even while she was working hard to raise funds for the library.
As liked this book, I'll have to check out Marvey's first adventure as a recent Peach Coast resident.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Hallmark Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
September 14, 2022
3.5 stars
This is the second installment of the "Peach coast library mystery" and we follow new resident Marvella Harris in an intricated plot of murders. Her friend Spencer might be the next victim of a serial killer in a hit list.
I've really enjoy this novel considering that I didn't read the first one. I can fully understand the plot without having reading the first book. I really care about Marvella -Marvey for the friends- and her bond to the community of Peach coast.
Olivia Matthews knows her cozy mystery Genre and it is super for fans of the Hallmark mystery movies.
I'm rooting for Spence and Marvey and Jo with Nolan.
The end was great because I didn't see it coming a lot with that suspect.
Great reading for lovers of cozy vibes.
Thanks Netgalley for the arc and Hallmark publisher.
This is the second installment of the "Peach coast library mystery" and we follow new resident Marvella Harris in an intricated plot of murders. Her friend Spencer might be the next victim of a serial killer in a hit list.
I've really enjoy this novel considering that I didn't read the first one. I can fully understand the plot without having reading the first book. I really care about Marvella -Marvey for the friends- and her bond to the community of Peach coast.
Olivia Matthews knows her cozy mystery Genre and it is super for fans of the Hallmark mystery movies.
I'm rooting for Spence and Marvey and Jo with Nolan.
The end was great because I didn't see it coming a lot with that suspect.
Great reading for lovers of cozy vibes.
Thanks Netgalley for the arc and Hallmark publisher.
September 14, 2022
This is the second installment of the "Peach coast library mystery" and we follow new resident Marvella Harris in an intricated plot of murders. Her friend Spencer might be the next victim of a serial killer in a hit list.
I've really enjoy this novel considering that I didn't read the first one. I can fully understand the plot without having reading the first book. I really care about Marvella -Marvey for the friends- and her bond to the community of Peach coast.
Olivia Matthews knows her cozy mystery Genre and it is super for fans of the Hallmark mystery movies.
I'm rooting for Spence and Marvey and Jo with Nolan.
The end was great because I didn't see it coming a lot with that suspect.
Great reading for lovers of cozy vibes.
Thanks Netgalley for the arc and Hallmark publisher.
I've really enjoy this novel considering that I didn't read the first one. I can fully understand the plot without having reading the first book. I really care about Marvella -Marvey for the friends- and her bond to the community of Peach coast.
Olivia Matthews knows her cozy mystery Genre and it is super for fans of the Hallmark mystery movies.
I'm rooting for Spence and Marvey and Jo with Nolan.
The end was great because I didn't see it coming a lot with that suspect.
Great reading for lovers of cozy vibes.
Thanks Netgalley for the arc and Hallmark publisher.
September 11, 2022
A head scratcher of a mystery with many twists and turns...
Small town mysteries always make me feel warm and fuzzy. This mystery does have an edge to it though. There is a serial killer amongst the town of Peach Coast, Georgia. After Marvey solved the first murder of the town only a short time ago, she is again embroiled in another. But this one is very personal as it involves Spencer Holt. Spence is a really good friend, maybe more than a friend. His name appears on a hit list of candidates the serial killer wants to get rid of.
We are taken on a roller coaster ride of mystery and intrigue. I know this town has more mysteries in store, and I am looking forward to reading them.
Small town mysteries always make me feel warm and fuzzy. This mystery does have an edge to it though. There is a serial killer amongst the town of Peach Coast, Georgia. After Marvey solved the first murder of the town only a short time ago, she is again embroiled in another. But this one is very personal as it involves Spencer Holt. Spence is a really good friend, maybe more than a friend. His name appears on a hit list of candidates the serial killer wants to get rid of.
We are taken on a roller coaster ride of mystery and intrigue. I know this town has more mysteries in store, and I am looking forward to reading them.
August 9, 2025
This is quickly becoming one of my favorite series. The characters are well developed and easy to relate too. I love the easy bantering between friends and the comedic relief provided by Jo’s love of the Florida Gators. The mystery was clever and kept me guessing.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
My review is voluntary and all comments and opinions are my own.
September 13, 2022
Murder Out of Character by Olivia Matthews.
Marvey, still adjusting to life in Peach Coast, Georgia, is at a library fundraising event when she comes across a list of four names. One is the name of someone who recently died—and who may have been murdered. Another is Spencer Holt, the handsome newspaper owner who’s become one of Marvey’s best friends.
A very good read. I did like the books on each chapter. I loved Spence the cat. Cozy read. 4*.
Marvey, still adjusting to life in Peach Coast, Georgia, is at a library fundraising event when she comes across a list of four names. One is the name of someone who recently died—and who may have been murdered. Another is Spencer Holt, the handsome newspaper owner who’s become one of Marvey’s best friends.
A very good read. I did like the books on each chapter. I loved Spence the cat. Cozy read. 4*.
November 30, 2022
This is really a 3.5 that I'm rounding up.
Marvey was quick to jump to "serial killer". The characters kept saying that term, but it has a specific connotation to me that's beyond someone who has killed or plans to kill multiple people.
While I do enjoy that the MC is a librarian, there are things in here that make me wonder if the author had any rural librarians for beta readers. A rural library worried about money would never have so many degreed professionals on staff. I work in a group of 30, and only 2 of us are actually librarians. A librarian would never call the rest of her staff "librarians" even if they were only library workers. That's an outsider mistake.
I started the first book before the announcement that the publishing house would be closing by the end of the year. I don't know if there will be more books in this series somewhere else, but the ending of this book could be a satisfying series conclusion.
Marvey was quick to jump to "serial killer". The characters kept saying that term, but it has a specific connotation to me that's beyond someone who has killed or plans to kill multiple people.
While I do enjoy that the MC is a librarian, there are things in here that make me wonder if the author had any rural librarians for beta readers. A rural library worried about money would never have so many degreed professionals on staff. I work in a group of 30, and only 2 of us are actually librarians. A librarian would never call the rest of her staff "librarians" even if they were only library workers. That's an outsider mistake.
I started the first book before the announcement that the publishing house would be closing by the end of the year. I don't know if there will be more books in this series somewhere else, but the ending of this book could be a satisfying series conclusion.
January 29, 2023
WRC 2023- book written by a black author
April 22, 2023
I liked this 2nd book so much more than the 1st! I love her parents.
The mystery was medium OK but the cast of small town characters really grew on me with this book.
The mystery was medium OK but the cast of small town characters really grew on me with this book.
January 27, 2023
There needs to be more books in this series. I really like the characters and want to see them in more adventures. I think there are definitely some southern stereotypes going on but they’re charming and you have to like it. I enjoyed the mystery and even picked the culprit.
March 11, 2022
The book itself, Murder out of Character, is a typical cozy mystery. I found the characters to be slightly less developed than I like, and the main character's (Marvy) family to be completely unrealistic. How many people have parents that are that far in their business at that age? Not many one would think. It goes beyond mere close familial ties and edges into treating their daughter as they would a particularly stupid child. The ending to the tale is a bit too pat and forcibly 'happy'. But then, this is Hallmark, the great home of "You know exactly what you're getting". The novel wasn't bad. It had a fairly nice hook to the mystery, although it took longer than it should have perhaps to fully unfold. And I do have to gratefully commend the author, Olivia Matthews, on her portrayal of the librarians! They're not constantly saying "Shhhh..." and reading behind the info desk. The very real struggles of modern public libraries are well portrayed. Kudos to Ms. Matthews for that!
I chose to set the stars in my rating at 4, even though I really thought the book a 3-3.5 star read. However, the reasons were not strictly all the author's doing, so I upgraded a bit. I certainly hope that the advance copy I got from Hallmark (yes, that Hallmark) Publishers was an uncorrected proof! Many of us find that the errors in books are getting a bit ridiculous, and it really shows here in Murder Out of Character. What detracted horrendously from the whole book was the feel that this was an uncorrected proof. I've read other books lately that were ARCs and they were in 100% better shape than this one was and due to be published later in the year. I pray that the book is fixed and given some editing before the publication date. There are formatting errors, especially at the beginning of every single chapter. There are capitalization errors galore, and worst of all are the usage errors. An example which made me grit my teeth was the use of the word "draws" when Marvy was describing a piece of furniture in her guest room. They're DRAWERS. Not "draws". If this is the intended publication state of the book, then shame to Hallmark! I would never let any author go out in public in The Emperor's New Clothes as it were. It is a shabby look and needs fixing immediately as it takes the reader out of the tale and into a state of "yet another error" irritation. However, it's not the author's fault that this text hasn't been edited. Therefore, as I stated at the start of my review, I gave more star rating power than I would've otherwise.
I do thank Hallmark for giving me the opportunity to read this book before publication in exchange for my fair review. In the future I would suggest to them that they put an "Uncorrected Proof" warning on their ARCs, however.
I chose to set the stars in my rating at 4, even though I really thought the book a 3-3.5 star read. However, the reasons were not strictly all the author's doing, so I upgraded a bit. I certainly hope that the advance copy I got from Hallmark (yes, that Hallmark) Publishers was an uncorrected proof! Many of us find that the errors in books are getting a bit ridiculous, and it really shows here in Murder Out of Character. What detracted horrendously from the whole book was the feel that this was an uncorrected proof. I've read other books lately that were ARCs and they were in 100% better shape than this one was and due to be published later in the year. I pray that the book is fixed and given some editing before the publication date. There are formatting errors, especially at the beginning of every single chapter. There are capitalization errors galore, and worst of all are the usage errors. An example which made me grit my teeth was the use of the word "draws" when Marvy was describing a piece of furniture in her guest room. They're DRAWERS. Not "draws". If this is the intended publication state of the book, then shame to Hallmark! I would never let any author go out in public in The Emperor's New Clothes as it were. It is a shabby look and needs fixing immediately as it takes the reader out of the tale and into a state of "yet another error" irritation. However, it's not the author's fault that this text hasn't been edited. Therefore, as I stated at the start of my review, I gave more star rating power than I would've otherwise.
I do thank Hallmark for giving me the opportunity to read this book before publication in exchange for my fair review. In the future I would suggest to them that they put an "Uncorrected Proof" warning on their ARCs, however.
December 18, 2022
Murder Out of Character, the second book in the Peach Coast Library Mystery series by Olivia Matthews, combines an engaging mystery with a smart and determined sleuth to create an entertaining cozy mystery.
Marvella Harris, the Director of Community Engagement at Peach Coast Library, is in the midst of soliciting the library’s donors when not one, but two, murders occur in rapid succession. Thanks to a note she finds, she discovers that their deaths may be a part of a “hit list” with her friend Spencer Holt the next on the list. Determined to protect Spence, Marvey sets out to find a killer.
This is the second book in the series (and the first I have read). Although it can easily be read as a standalone, I believe that the experience would be enhanced by reading the first book. Marvey is a character you would want to be your friend. She is intelligent, loyal, and willing to persevere against the odds. Spence is charming, practical, and easy on the eyes. The mystery harkens back to their high school days, which adds an element of nostalgia to ramp up the suspense. With a bountiful collection of twists and turns, this is one mystery that will keep you guessing until the end.
I was provided with an audio copy of this book, and I must say that the book’s charm was greatly enhanced by the narrator, Janina Edwards. She brings a healthy dose of Southern charm to the story, and I intend to continue the series in audio version.
All told, Murder Out of Character is a compelling and enjoyable cozy mystery that will leave you wanting to read the next installment.
Note: I received an audio ARC of Murder Out of Character from NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Hallmark Publishing. The above is my honest review.
Marvella Harris, the Director of Community Engagement at Peach Coast Library, is in the midst of soliciting the library’s donors when not one, but two, murders occur in rapid succession. Thanks to a note she finds, she discovers that their deaths may be a part of a “hit list” with her friend Spencer Holt the next on the list. Determined to protect Spence, Marvey sets out to find a killer.
This is the second book in the series (and the first I have read). Although it can easily be read as a standalone, I believe that the experience would be enhanced by reading the first book. Marvey is a character you would want to be your friend. She is intelligent, loyal, and willing to persevere against the odds. Spence is charming, practical, and easy on the eyes. The mystery harkens back to their high school days, which adds an element of nostalgia to ramp up the suspense. With a bountiful collection of twists and turns, this is one mystery that will keep you guessing until the end.
I was provided with an audio copy of this book, and I must say that the book’s charm was greatly enhanced by the narrator, Janina Edwards. She brings a healthy dose of Southern charm to the story, and I intend to continue the series in audio version.
All told, Murder Out of Character is a compelling and enjoyable cozy mystery that will leave you wanting to read the next installment.
Note: I received an audio ARC of Murder Out of Character from NetGalley, Dreamscape Media, and Hallmark Publishing. The above is my honest review.
September 16, 2022
I received a complimentary copy from Hallmark Publishing and all opinions expressed are entirely my own.
Murder Out of Character is book 2 in the Peach Coast Library series and follows librarian and amateur sleuth Marvey Harris. The book starts at a fundraiser where Marvey picks up a list with four names on it -Hank , Nelle, Brittany and Spence Holt. When two people on the list die and so begins the quest to find out if the list is a murder list . With the help of the librarians she is determined to find out who is responsible for the list and the murders.
What I loved about the book: The location of the story , the characters and the way peach cobbler became everything I thought of
Murder Out of Character is book 2 in the Peach Coast Library series and follows librarian and amateur sleuth Marvey Harris. The book starts at a fundraiser where Marvey picks up a list with four names on it -Hank , Nelle, Brittany and Spence Holt. When two people on the list die and so begins the quest to find out if the list is a murder list . With the help of the librarians she is determined to find out who is responsible for the list and the murders.
What I loved about the book: The location of the story , the characters and the way peach cobbler became everything I thought of
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