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Charleton House Mysteries #8
Tales from Charleton House: Charleton House Mystery Shorts
In Kate P. Adams’ delightful first collection of short stories, featuring old friends and new from the successful Charleton House Mysteries, enjoy a world of laughs, friendship, mystery and mischief.
A young woman accepts an invitation to meet her boyfriend’s parents over dinner, unaware that one of the guests will attend from beyond the grave. A warm-hearted seamstress enjoys a glass of champagne with friends, until their happy chatter is silenced by the unmistakable crack of a gunshot. A cad’s comeuppance is served in shades of pink.
Take a journey into the lives of Sophie, Mark, Joyce and the other characters who breathe life into Charleton House, a magnificent stately home set in the stunning Derbyshire hills. Share an old lady’s nostalgia as she ventures down memory lane. Chuckle as a spectre from the past drops in to wreak a bit of festive mayhem. See if you can work out how an impossible crime was committed. Wonder at a haunting visit to a childhood home.
Whether they be ghostly or romantic, mysterious or festive, these charming, quirky and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny short stories will make the perfect cosy companion.
A young woman accepts an invitation to meet her boyfriend’s parents over dinner, unaware that one of the guests will attend from beyond the grave. A warm-hearted seamstress enjoys a glass of champagne with friends, until their happy chatter is silenced by the unmistakable crack of a gunshot. A cad’s comeuppance is served in shades of pink.
Take a journey into the lives of Sophie, Mark, Joyce and the other characters who breathe life into Charleton House, a magnificent stately home set in the stunning Derbyshire hills. Share an old lady’s nostalgia as she ventures down memory lane. Chuckle as a spectre from the past drops in to wreak a bit of festive mayhem. See if you can work out how an impossible crime was committed. Wonder at a haunting visit to a childhood home.
Whether they be ghostly or romantic, mysterious or festive, these charming, quirky and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny short stories will make the perfect cosy companion.
- GenresMystery
130 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2021
46 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
December 26, 2021
#1 - A Stylish Revenge
Sophie is shopping for a sofa with Joyce when Joyce spots her former husband, Edgar, with a young woman. After Edgar and his lady friend leave, Joyce talks to the sales person who took their order and made a few changes to the order with the intent of embarrassing her ex.
#2 - Meet the Family
Joe Greene takes his friend, Ellie, to meet his family. His mother indulges in drink a little too much and things get slightly embarrassing.
#3 - A Lasting Mark
The pews in the Charleton House Chapel have had people engraving their initials in them over the years. James and Ellie are looking at ways to preserve the initials for future generations. One set of initials James notices is H.A. and he wonders who they refer to. Harriet Smedley, who watches over the chapel claims she does not know.
#4 - A Final Visit
Sylvia Critchlow wanted to take one last view of her childhood home. This was the first time that Roger had been working when Sylvia visited and she said it would be her last visit.
#5 - A Christmas Conundrum
Chelsea decided to take a break from monitoring the outdoor food stands and slipped into the Gilded Hall to look at some more of the decorations. She didn't see Mark when she first entered, but he had already been there for a little while. As she looked around, she noticed a pair of boots, then saw a body that looked like Father Christmas on the floor. Fortunately, he was still alive and the paramedics were able to get him to the hospital for treatment. Frank Broom, who formerly worked in security, would dress up as Santa for the children.
What happened to Frank? How did he get hurt?
#6 - The Sibley Hall Mystery
Ginger is terrified by Joyce's driving, which only makes Joyce go faster. They are headed to the home of one of Ginger's long time friends to attend a wedding. While enjoying a champagne toast, a gun shot is heard from elsewhere in the house. The head of the household, Milton Tasker, has been killed. But the room is locked from the inside and the windows are closed and locked as well. When the family finally enters the room, no gun is found, so suicide is not an option.
Who killed Milton? How was he killed? Can Joyce and Ginger unravel the mystery?
Kate Adams has created a wonderful collection of short stories to give readers more insight to the people of Charleton House. They are short stories, but are sure to hold your attention throughout!!
Sophie is shopping for a sofa with Joyce when Joyce spots her former husband, Edgar, with a young woman. After Edgar and his lady friend leave, Joyce talks to the sales person who took their order and made a few changes to the order with the intent of embarrassing her ex.
#2 - Meet the Family
Joe Greene takes his friend, Ellie, to meet his family. His mother indulges in drink a little too much and things get slightly embarrassing.
#3 - A Lasting Mark
The pews in the Charleton House Chapel have had people engraving their initials in them over the years. James and Ellie are looking at ways to preserve the initials for future generations. One set of initials James notices is H.A. and he wonders who they refer to. Harriet Smedley, who watches over the chapel claims she does not know.
#4 - A Final Visit
Sylvia Critchlow wanted to take one last view of her childhood home. This was the first time that Roger had been working when Sylvia visited and she said it would be her last visit.
#5 - A Christmas Conundrum
Chelsea decided to take a break from monitoring the outdoor food stands and slipped into the Gilded Hall to look at some more of the decorations. She didn't see Mark when she first entered, but he had already been there for a little while. As she looked around, she noticed a pair of boots, then saw a body that looked like Father Christmas on the floor. Fortunately, he was still alive and the paramedics were able to get him to the hospital for treatment. Frank Broom, who formerly worked in security, would dress up as Santa for the children.
What happened to Frank? How did he get hurt?
#6 - The Sibley Hall Mystery
Ginger is terrified by Joyce's driving, which only makes Joyce go faster. They are headed to the home of one of Ginger's long time friends to attend a wedding. While enjoying a champagne toast, a gun shot is heard from elsewhere in the house. The head of the household, Milton Tasker, has been killed. But the room is locked from the inside and the windows are closed and locked as well. When the family finally enters the room, no gun is found, so suicide is not an option.
Who killed Milton? How was he killed? Can Joyce and Ginger unravel the mystery?
Kate Adams has created a wonderful collection of short stories to give readers more insight to the people of Charleton House. They are short stories, but are sure to hold your attention throughout!!
January 3, 2022
If you haven’t read the entire series of Charleton House mysteries, I have two suggestions:
Do yourself a huge favor and read them.
You could read this one first as an introduction and then you won’t be able to wait to read the series.
For those of us who have read the entire series, this collection provides additional insights into some of the characters.
Having received an ARC copy, I read Tales From Charleton House on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
It is an extremely rapid read because it captures your interest and will not let go.
I found it to be a very enjoyable change of pace and a superb addition to the collection.
All the entries in this first of its kind presentation of the characters we have come to know and some interesting, but minor characters, offer an enjoyable reading experience with unexpected outcomes.
I highly recommend Tales From Charleton House.
Do yourself a huge favor and read them.
You could read this one first as an introduction and then you won’t be able to wait to read the series.
For those of us who have read the entire series, this collection provides additional insights into some of the characters.
Having received an ARC copy, I read Tales From Charleton House on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.
It is an extremely rapid read because it captures your interest and will not let go.
I found it to be a very enjoyable change of pace and a superb addition to the collection.
All the entries in this first of its kind presentation of the characters we have come to know and some interesting, but minor characters, offer an enjoyable reading experience with unexpected outcomes.
I highly recommend Tales From Charleton House.
December 26, 2021
A delightful collection of short stories concerning our friends at Charleton House. We find Joyce can be sensible and loves a bit of revenge. Poor Joe, if I were he, I would never bring a friend home to visit Mum. Prim and proper Harriet has an unexpected secret. Roger from security is in for a shock concerning a visitor he just escorted. Could Father Christmas be dead? Chelsea comes into her own when supervising the refreshments for a small Christmas gathering. And last, but not least, Joyce and Ginger go sleuthing at the historic home of one of Ginger’s friends. Each short story has a charm of its own and helps us understand the characters we love. I received this as an ARC copy, but the review is totally my opinion.
January 23, 2022
Theses stories made me think and laugh, a wonderful combination. I recommend all books by this author. They are fun and engaging stories. The characters are so likable that you want to sit with them in the cafe enjoying a scone and cup of tea.
January 19, 2022
I enjoyed these stories. Although some were short, they were well written and not abrupt in their conclusions. Several had some great moments of humor and the mysteries were well done. Reading these made me remind myself to continue reading the Charleton House Mysteries series!
Amazon synopsis:
In Kate P. Adams’ delightful first collection of short stories, featuring old friends and new from the successful Charleton House Mysteries, enjoy a world of laughs, friendship, mystery and mischief.
A young woman accepts an invitation to meet her boyfriend’s parents over dinner, unaware that one of the guests will attend from beyond the grave. A warm-hearted seamstress enjoys a glass of champagne with friends until their happy chatter is silenced by the unmistakable crack of a gunshot. A cad’s comeuppance is served in shades of pink.
Take a journey into the lives of Sophie, Mark, Joyce, and the other characters who breathe life into Charleton House, a magnificent stately home set in the stunning Derbyshire hills. Share an old lady’s nostalgia as she ventures down memory lane. Chuckle as a spectre from the past drops in to wreak a bit of festive mayhem. See if you can work out how an impossible crime was committed. Wonder at a haunting visit to a childhood home.
Whether they be ghostly or romantic, mysterious or festive, these charming, quirky, and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny short stories will make the perfect cozy companion.
Amazon synopsis:
In Kate P. Adams’ delightful first collection of short stories, featuring old friends and new from the successful Charleton House Mysteries, enjoy a world of laughs, friendship, mystery and mischief.
A young woman accepts an invitation to meet her boyfriend’s parents over dinner, unaware that one of the guests will attend from beyond the grave. A warm-hearted seamstress enjoys a glass of champagne with friends until their happy chatter is silenced by the unmistakable crack of a gunshot. A cad’s comeuppance is served in shades of pink.
Take a journey into the lives of Sophie, Mark, Joyce, and the other characters who breathe life into Charleton House, a magnificent stately home set in the stunning Derbyshire hills. Share an old lady’s nostalgia as she ventures down memory lane. Chuckle as a spectre from the past drops in to wreak a bit of festive mayhem. See if you can work out how an impossible crime was committed. Wonder at a haunting visit to a childhood home.
Whether they be ghostly or romantic, mysterious or festive, these charming, quirky, and sometimes laugh-out-loud funny short stories will make the perfect cozy companion.
December 26, 2021
A wonderful short story addition to the Charleton house series! We get a little more insight into the main characters in the series like Sophie, Joyce, Mark, Chelsea, Ginger and some of the more subordinate characters like Roger, Ellie and Joe among them. What fun these stories were. This was a page turning group of stories just to see what the characters were up to like the prim and proper Harriet who is in charge of the Charleton House Chapel. What secret did she have that made a difference? And I couldn't stop laughing when Joyce was helping Sophie pick out a new sofa for her little house. It seems Joyce is really great at revenge! Loved it and cheered. And Chelsea when she decided to take a break from checking on the food restaurants on the property to see more of the Christmas Decorations in Gilded Hall when she comes across Father Christmas lying on the floor. And then there is Joyce and Ginger going to the wedding of one of Ginger's long time friends when there is a gun shot heard and the host was murdered. Of course Joyce and Ginger decide they have to investigate and find a murderer. This is just a little summary of a few of the 6 stories. Each one is so much fun to read once you begin, you must keep going to see what and who is next! I receive and ARC of this book but the opinions expressed here are strictly my own.
December 31, 2021
Thoroughly enjoyable and clever collection
As one of the advanced team of readers, as always I was excited to read the latest book about the people who work at Charleton House.
This collection of short stories didn’t disappoint. It was good to find out more detail of some of the characters whom we have met in previous books and the cleverly woven plots introduced us to the sleuthing minds of Sophie’s colleagues.
I particularly liked “A stylish revenge”. I didn’t see the end coming and I laughed out loud. Very, very clever and satisfying.
Joyce features in this and the novella and I enjoyed finding out about what makes Joyce Joyce. It explains a great deal about her attitudes but opens up her big heart which she tries to keep under wraps.
Altogether a great read. Can’t wait for the next instalment in the lives of the Charleton House team.
As one of the advanced team of readers, as always I was excited to read the latest book about the people who work at Charleton House.
This collection of short stories didn’t disappoint. It was good to find out more detail of some of the characters whom we have met in previous books and the cleverly woven plots introduced us to the sleuthing minds of Sophie’s colleagues.
I particularly liked “A stylish revenge”. I didn’t see the end coming and I laughed out loud. Very, very clever and satisfying.
Joyce features in this and the novella and I enjoyed finding out about what makes Joyce Joyce. It explains a great deal about her attitudes but opens up her big heart which she tries to keep under wraps.
Altogether a great read. Can’t wait for the next instalment in the lives of the Charleton House team.
December 27, 2021
I love the Charleton House Mysteries and the characters! This is a collection of some of the characters- some main characters and some lesser known ones. All of the stories are well written but some I liked more than others and the only connecting thread is they all work at the Charleton House property. I really enjoyed the story of Sophie and Joyce going furniture shopping. It was funny and those are two of my favorite characters. There were a couple of cozy mysteries thrown in, but Sophie, who usually solves the mysteries, wasn't involved. It shines the light on other characters but it definitely has a different feel. Overall, it is an enjoyable book. I received an advance copy from the author Kate P Adams for an honest review.
July 6, 2022
Reminds me of old style crime novels
While this book is a departure from what I usually read, I found it well written, although not really "my cup of tea." It reminds me of crime stories written from yesteryear in its style and wording. It is an amalgamation of different short stories and the two that really stuck with me was one that was a bit of a ghost story with paranormal overtones, and the last story in the book that reminds me of Agatha Christie's style where the sleuths points out the details of the murder and who did it. There was quite a few references to drinking including whisky, gin, and champagne, which was a bit tiresome to this reader, but overall a decent read for the right audience.
While this book is a departure from what I usually read, I found it well written, although not really "my cup of tea." It reminds me of crime stories written from yesteryear in its style and wording. It is an amalgamation of different short stories and the two that really stuck with me was one that was a bit of a ghost story with paranormal overtones, and the last story in the book that reminds me of Agatha Christie's style where the sleuths points out the details of the murder and who did it. There was quite a few references to drinking including whisky, gin, and champagne, which was a bit tiresome to this reader, but overall a decent read for the right audience.
Read
January 2, 2022This collection of short stories is a delight. I enjoyed learning more about the people who help Sophie solve the crimes at this stately manor. I never fully understood Joyce and her tenacious nature. If I needed help I would want her in my corner. After Ellie meets Joe's parents, I knew that he had found his perfect match. She is unflappable. I was touched by Sylvia Critchlow's final visit to Charleton House. Her goodbye was eerie and unexpected. Also, Chelsea was a star when she dealt with the attack on Father Christmas. I didn't expect that from her. Kate P. Adams filled in the blanks on these characters. She showed me how lucky Sophie is to be surrounded by such capable people.
January 11, 2022
Tales from Charleton House is an intriguing collection of short stories spotlighting different characters who have made appearances in Kate P. Adams's previous novels in the Charleton House Mysteries series.
Beginning to read this book is akin to opening a box of chocolates...you may intend to sample just one but be warned, its very hard to resist the desire for 'just one more'!
I relished this book of finely crafted little tales and certainly hope that in the future Kate will treat us to more of these little delights along with further full length novels.
I read an ARC of this book but this is my honest review.
Beginning to read this book is akin to opening a box of chocolates...you may intend to sample just one but be warned, its very hard to resist the desire for 'just one more'!
I relished this book of finely crafted little tales and certainly hope that in the future Kate will treat us to more of these little delights along with further full length novels.
I read an ARC of this book but this is my honest review.
February 8, 2022
Besides the major protagonist and antagonist (good guy and bad guy), nearly all stories feature additional characters in various ancillary roles. Sometimes these characters appear in only one story, but in a series they often appear frequently. Unfortunately, too often these characters are somewhat unknown entities.
In this interesting and very well written collection, Kate P. Adams has made some of those ancillary characters the subjects of the stories, giving us a much better insight into who they are. An unusual switch, yes, but highly effective.
The entire Charleton House series is great reading, and this entry certainly does not disappoint.
In this interesting and very well written collection, Kate P. Adams has made some of those ancillary characters the subjects of the stories, giving us a much better insight into who they are. An unusual switch, yes, but highly effective.
The entire Charleton House series is great reading, and this entry certainly does not disappoint.
January 14, 2022
Thoroughly enjoyable!
I already love the Charleton House series, but this collection of Charleton shorts was such fun! Little glimpses into the various characters that are the backbone of the series, fun vignettes that - though I was a bit concerned might be too short, actually turned out to be the perfect length.
A great addition to the series, from an author that keeps it intriguing!
[I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
I already love the Charleton House series, but this collection of Charleton shorts was such fun! Little glimpses into the various characters that are the backbone of the series, fun vignettes that - though I was a bit concerned might be too short, actually turned out to be the perfect length.
A great addition to the series, from an author that keeps it intriguing!
[I was fortunate to receive an Advanced Reader Copy of the book from the author, with no obligation to review. The opinions expressed herein are given freely and are entirely my own.]
January 21, 2023
Just not a series I can like. Something about the two women doesn’t gel for me. I don’t like the way they enter active crime scenes just because they think they can find something, and if they do they choose when to share it. Their characters have no appeal for me in other ways, such as the drinking. This is simply my opinion of this particular series. ⭐️⭐️
The first short story in this book was very good. The stories involving The Charleston House are well written and come together to give a very enjoyable read. Good characters. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The first short story in this book was very good. The stories involving The Charleston House are well written and come together to give a very enjoyable read. Good characters. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 10, 2022
This is a little different from the usual stories, but it is a good different. Short stories that give us an insight into the people of Charleton House that we met in the books. It is a little more about the characters and their jobs. Oh yes, and also a murder! Another fantastic read!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
January 11, 2022
This has a few short stories and one longer one. Various people are involved. The first one involves Joyce & Sophie choosing a sofa & is a real hoot. I laughed out loud. There’s another where Santa is found collapsed under a Christmas tree & a room with quite a bit of damage in it. Chelsea & Mark help out here & the longer one is Joyce & Ginger working out how an “impossible” murder took place. All good reads.
December 26, 2021
Kindle Copy for Review
These are short stories from Charleton House that will put you in a festive mood. Your favourite characters are featured in this delightful read.
Delightful quirky stories that will entertain you in the background of a old house. It is a must for those who enjoy the mystery series.
These are short stories from Charleton House that will put you in a festive mood. Your favourite characters are featured in this delightful read.
Delightful quirky stories that will entertain you in the background of a old house. It is a must for those who enjoy the mystery series.
February 27, 2022
Wow - I loved this short story collection from the POV of several friends and acquaintances of the usual MC of this series. This was the perfect interlude since the previous book ended with a betrayal of family and friends that may impact the dynamics between some of the characters in the future. Highly recommended!
December 26, 2021
This was quite the enjoyable read! It is good to know that Sophie’s friends also have the same deductible minds that she does! It makes her sleuthing that much easier. It was nice to get a further glimpse into the lives of her friends. This was just great!
December 28, 2021
A delightful collection of Charleton House short stories. I really loved the insight into some of the other characters in the series, especially Joyce. Favorites included "A Stylish Revenge" and "The Sibley Hall Mystery", but honestly I enjoyed them all. Highly recommended for fans of the series, or someone looking to get introduced to the characters.
December 29, 2021
A winner!
I don't know how to say how great all these stories are. As well as the author, of course! I have enjoyed every story so much. I am thrilled to know an amazing author who writes unbelievably great! Everyone will love alk her stories, how can they not? Amazing!
I don't know how to say how great all these stories are. As well as the author, of course! I have enjoyed every story so much. I am thrilled to know an amazing author who writes unbelievably great! Everyone will love alk her stories, how can they not? Amazing!
January 29, 2022
Enjoyable read
If you are a Kate P Adams reader already, this one is a fun read to enjoy more characters. If you haven't tried her yet, this collection will show you her style and maybe get you to try all her books. You won't be sorry. Her series is so enjoyable.
If you are a Kate P Adams reader already, this one is a fun read to enjoy more characters. If you haven't tried her yet, this collection will show you her style and maybe get you to try all her books. You won't be sorry. Her series is so enjoyable.
May 4, 2022
Great addition to the Charleton House Mysteries. Love the way they each show the strengths they bring to the "team" that ends up solving the big cases. I really love these books. Kate is a great author!
May 31, 2022
My review for Tales from Charleton House
I absolutely loved it! Brilliantly written! This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. This is a must read series! I can’t wait for next book!
I absolutely loved it! Brilliantly written! This is the beginning of a beautiful friendship. This is a must read series! I can’t wait for next book!
May 3, 2023
Have loved every book in this series. The short tales in this book was interesting. It gave a different look at some of the lesser characters from the books. I loved what Joyce did to her ex-husband in the first story, it was priceless. Definitely recommend this series. I hope there are more.
December 27, 2021
Really enjoyed these short stories. Great to see the interaction between the supporting characters , although Sophie does appear in the first story. Great holiday read.
December 27, 2021
Loved this!
This was a refreshing insight to the
other characters in the books. You won't be disappointed. Read asap.
Great read.
This was a refreshing insight to the
other characters in the books. You won't be disappointed. Read asap.
Great read.
January 7, 2022
A good beach read
If you love the Charleton House series, and I do, you will enjoy this collection of short tales. Our it down, pick it up at the beach or on a plane.
If you love the Charleton House series, and I do, you will enjoy this collection of short tales. Our it down, pick it up at the beach or on a plane.
January 17, 2022
Takes from Charleton House
I loved this book! Though it was definitely to short. I enjoy all of Kate P Adams books but prefer her full novels. Longer stories to get involved in.
I loved this book! Though it was definitely to short. I enjoy all of Kate P Adams books but prefer her full novels. Longer stories to get involved in.
January 23, 2022
These stories made me think and laugh, always a fun combination.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews