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Eve Mallow Mystery #8
Mystery at Lovelace Manor
Lovelace Manor has a famous past… but when a historian becomes history at its annual open day, amateur sleuth Eve Mallow is on the case!
Everyone in Saxford St Peter flocks to Lovelace Sunday, the festival celebrating the romantic history of beautiful Lovelace Manor. This year will be even more exciting, as famous TV historian Cammie Harington is planning a spectacular stunt with a hot-air balloon for her new show.
Eve Mallow jumps at the chance to volunteer – it’s a great people-watching opportunity. But she soon realises there is no love lost between Cammie and the family who own the manor… so why did Cammie agree to come?
When Cammie’s hot-air balloon tumbles from the sky, Eve feels sure this is no accident. Alongside dachshund Gus, she sets to work investigating the mystery, piecing together all the odd things she’s seen and heard.
Could the killer be discreet Diana, lady of the manor, who fell out with Cammie years ago? Or Diana’s dashing brother Sebastian, whose dark secret Cammie knew? Why was the loyal gardener following Cammie around? And had Cammie uncovered something explosive about the manor’s past, as she claimed?
When someone breaks into Cammie’s cottage and a priceless Lovelace heirloom goes missing, Eve is sure she’s on the right track… but can she solve the case, before the killer brings her crashing down?
Everyone in Saxford St Peter flocks to Lovelace Sunday, the festival celebrating the romantic history of beautiful Lovelace Manor. This year will be even more exciting, as famous TV historian Cammie Harington is planning a spectacular stunt with a hot-air balloon for her new show.
Eve Mallow jumps at the chance to volunteer – it’s a great people-watching opportunity. But she soon realises there is no love lost between Cammie and the family who own the manor… so why did Cammie agree to come?
When Cammie’s hot-air balloon tumbles from the sky, Eve feels sure this is no accident. Alongside dachshund Gus, she sets to work investigating the mystery, piecing together all the odd things she’s seen and heard.
Could the killer be discreet Diana, lady of the manor, who fell out with Cammie years ago? Or Diana’s dashing brother Sebastian, whose dark secret Cammie knew? Why was the loyal gardener following Cammie around? And had Cammie uncovered something explosive about the manor’s past, as she claimed?
When someone breaks into Cammie’s cottage and a priceless Lovelace heirloom goes missing, Eve is sure she’s on the right track… but can she solve the case, before the killer brings her crashing down?
- GenresMysteryCozy MysteryCozy
293 pages, ebook
First published May 17, 2022
891 people are currently reading
177 people want to read
About the author
Clare Chase
34 books315 followersClare Chase writes classic mysteries. Her aim is to take readers away from it all via some armchair sleuthing in atmospheric locations.
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
Her debut novel was shortlisted for Novelicious’s Undiscovered Award, as well as an EPIC award post-publication, and was chosen as a Debut of the Month by LoveReading. Murder in the Marshes (Tara Thorpe 1) was shortlisted for an International Thriller Writers award.
Like her heroines, Clare is fascinated by people and what makes them tick. Before becoming a full-time writer, she worked in settings as diverse as Littlehey Prison and the University of Cambridge, in her home city. She’s lived everywhere from the house of a lord to a slug-infested flat and finds the mid-terrace she currently occupies a good happy medium.
As well as writing, Clare loves family time, art and architecture, cooking, and of course, reading other people’s novels.
You can find Clare's website and blog at www.clarechase.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
April 27, 2022
This is the eighth book in the Eve Mallow series by author Clare Chase although it is personally my first. It took awhile for me to get into this one, which is probably due to the characters being new to me but the more I read the more I enjoyed it. I suppose it comes into the category of ‘cosy crime’ and I would fully expect to grow into this series given more time. Nicely written with interesting characters and a fairly gentle plot.
The story is set at Lovelace Manor where they are holding a festival attended by TV historian Cammie Harington. To add excitement to the event they are planning a spectacular stunt with a hot-air balloon for her new show. But when the hot air balloon plunges from the sky killing Cammie Harington foul play is a foot and Eve Mallow is already there to investigate.
There is no shortage of suspects and plenty of secrets to discover.
If I am completely honest I don’t expect to read anymore of this series as I already have enough similar style series that I follow.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set at Lovelace Manor where they are holding a festival attended by TV historian Cammie Harington. To add excitement to the event they are planning a spectacular stunt with a hot-air balloon for her new show. But when the hot air balloon plunges from the sky killing Cammie Harington foul play is a foot and Eve Mallow is already there to investigate.
There is no shortage of suspects and plenty of secrets to discover.
If I am completely honest I don’t expect to read anymore of this series as I already have enough similar style series that I follow.
I would like to thank both Netgalley and Bookouture for supplying a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
May 19, 2022
Eve Mallow is happy to volunteer at a celebration at Lovelace Manor. A planned hot-air balloon stunt has everyone excited - until the television historian that would be in the air balloon falls to her death. Her name was Cammie Harungrm and Eve is sure that this was no accident. With plenty of suspects, Eve is interested in more than writing the obituary for the victim, sh8s to find the killer herself.
As a well-respected obituary writer, Eve easily has the opportunity to talk to the many people that knew the victims as a basis for background information for the article, but Eve goes much further. Eve turns over clues left and right in order to get closer to identifying the killer. Per normal whenever it comes to Eve solving a murder, there are no shortage of suspects, but the closer she gets, the more danger she finds herself in.
Eve is not in this alone. She has Robin, police officer turned gardener, although their relationship is secret due to an occurrence from his previous career. Then there is Gus, her faithful dachshund. With more than a few surprises, a gorgeous setting, even pacing and Eve's delightful introspection, this book definitely kept me guessing, and this made it a real page-turner. I love the fact that I was not able to identify the killer myself, thus this book came to an exciting conclusion. Clare Chase has written another winner with this eighth book in this thoroughly engaging cozy mystery series, and I am sure the next book will be just as enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
As a well-respected obituary writer, Eve easily has the opportunity to talk to the many people that knew the victims as a basis for background information for the article, but Eve goes much further. Eve turns over clues left and right in order to get closer to identifying the killer. Per normal whenever it comes to Eve solving a murder, there are no shortage of suspects, but the closer she gets, the more danger she finds herself in.
Eve is not in this alone. She has Robin, police officer turned gardener, although their relationship is secret due to an occurrence from his previous career. Then there is Gus, her faithful dachshund. With more than a few surprises, a gorgeous setting, even pacing and Eve's delightful introspection, this book definitely kept me guessing, and this made it a real page-turner. I love the fact that I was not able to identify the killer myself, thus this book came to an exciting conclusion. Clare Chase has written another winner with this eighth book in this thoroughly engaging cozy mystery series, and I am sure the next book will be just as enjoyable.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
June 8, 2022
When Eve Mallow volunteers to help with Lovelace Sunday, the annual event commemorating a romantic interlude from the past that occurred at the stately Lovelace Manor, she soon runs into troublesome undercurrents. All is not well between the sister managing the estate and her younger brother who will ultimately inherit it. Will the family sniping dampen the festivities?
Television historian, Cammie Harington wants to bring the history of the manor into the public light, staging a festive, hot-air balloon launch to kick the celebrations off. When tragedy strikes, Eve believes the disaster may not be an accident. As she probes the relationship between the unlucky historian and the manor owners, she learns of jilted relationships and dark secrets that threaten to reveal the true history of happenings at the manor. As the deadly deeds continue, will Eve's sleuthing result in her becoming a victim too?
Author Chase weaves an intriguing whodunnit with unexpected twists. The characters, settings, and storyline kept this mystery lover entertained! I look forward to reading more of this cozy series, highly recommended!
Television historian, Cammie Harington wants to bring the history of the manor into the public light, staging a festive, hot-air balloon launch to kick the celebrations off. When tragedy strikes, Eve believes the disaster may not be an accident. As she probes the relationship between the unlucky historian and the manor owners, she learns of jilted relationships and dark secrets that threaten to reveal the true history of happenings at the manor. As the deadly deeds continue, will Eve's sleuthing result in her becoming a victim too?
Author Chase weaves an intriguing whodunnit with unexpected twists. The characters, settings, and storyline kept this mystery lover entertained! I look forward to reading more of this cozy series, highly recommended!
May 18, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Mystery At Lovelace Manor' by Clare Chase.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Clare Chase, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th May 2022
This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the eighth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Mystery At The Old Mill ' which is the fourth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series, 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' which is the fifth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' and 'Mystery At The Church' which is the sixth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series and 'Mystery At Magpie Lodge' which is the seventh book in the series and which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely gripping English cozy mystery, perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, J.R. Ellis and Betty Rowlands.' I am a huge fan of Faith Martin and Betty Rowlands so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Clare Chase and if this is half as good as 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel', 'Mystery At The Old Mill', 'Mystery At The Church' and 'Mystery At Magpie Lodge' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 47 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in a fictional town based in Suffolk, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Suffolk on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Clare has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Eve Mallow. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
Yet another page turning, fantastic adventure with Eve, Gus and Robin!!! If you have never read any books in this epic series you are missing out!!!
This book is very well written making it a lovely smooth read. The atmosphere and vivid descriptions are perfect for the plot and helps give that cosy feeling while reading. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly. I'm looking forward to reading more of Clare Chase's books including any prior to this one that I have yet to read.
The storyline itself is a lovely cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. It is filled with tension, suspense, murder, red herrings galore and a sprinkle of romance. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me with the amount of crime books I read but you definitely managed it. There were so many potential suspects and each one of my guesses were way out!! I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. Clare portrays village life perfectly and the community within them in each and every one of her books which makes them even more realistic. I absolutely love reading Eve's obituary at the end of each book and she captivates the personality of the victim absolutely perfectly. I think it is a lovely unique touch and gives a summary of what we learned about them through the story serving as a reminder. I loved the atmosphere at Lovelace Manor with its romantic and yet slightly gothic atmosphere. This book was absolutely filled with surprises and another fantastic addition to the addictive 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series.
Clear your schedules as once you've picked this up you won't be able to put it down!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I absolutely love meeting them in each of these series. They have become like friends to me and I find myself missing them as soon as I have closed the pages. When I "meet" them again it is like they have never been away. I love Eve and of course Gus and I really enjoyed meeting them again along with Robin and Viv. I find Eve to be slightly eccentric which I enjoyed the most about her. She has such a large personality which is unforgettable. I always love her interactions with Viv and the both of them together always make me giggle at some point. I was absolutely over the moon when Robin said something to Eve and my reply was "about time!" I have absolutely loved watching their relationship grow and develop and I'm looking forward to seeing how it continues to grow. I also enjoyed meeting all the new characters who all had such strong personalities although I could not stand Sebastian and found him to be a pig who absolutely adored himself, apologies to pigs everywhere!! I won't go into any further detail about him or several other characters as I don't want to give anything away. Regardless, if you love them or hate them they all come together to make this novel yet another amazing success by Clare! I cannot wait to read what Eve, Robin and Gus get up to next!!
Congratulations to Clare Chase on another successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. This is why when I want an addictive cosy mystery which I can read anywhere I hunt your books down. Here's to youe next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely compelling, addictive and page turning gothic cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Suspense, Cozy Crafts & Hobbies Mystery, Cozy Culinary Mystery, Cozy Animal Mystery and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of cosy mysteries, Faith Martin, Agatha Christie, Frances Evesham, J.R. Ellis and Betty Rowlands.
330 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MysteryAtLovelaceManor #Bookouture #ClareChase #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@ClareChase @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
Review for 'Mystery At Lovelace Manor' by Clare Chase.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Clare Chase, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 7th May 2022
This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the eighth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series but it can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Mystery At The Old Mill ' which is the fourth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series, 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel' which is the fifth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' and 'Mystery At The Church' which is the sixth book in the 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series and 'Mystery At Magpie Lodge' which is the seventh book in the series and which I would highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'A completely gripping English cozy mystery, perfect for fans of Frances Evesham, J.R. Ellis and Betty Rowlands.' I am a huge fan of Faith Martin and Betty Rowlands so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Clare Chase and if this is half as good as 'Mystery At The Abbey Hotel', 'Mystery At The Old Mill', 'Mystery At The Church' and 'Mystery At Magpie Lodge' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 47 chapters. The chapters are short in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in a fictional town based in Suffolk, UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited Suffolk on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Clare has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Eve Mallow. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out on anything.
Yet another page turning, fantastic adventure with Eve, Gus and Robin!!! If you have never read any books in this epic series you are missing out!!!
This book is very well written making it a lovely smooth read. The atmosphere and vivid descriptions are perfect for the plot and helps give that cosy feeling while reading. The synopsis and cover suited the storyline perfectly. I'm looking forward to reading more of Clare Chase's books including any prior to this one that I have yet to read.
The storyline itself is a lovely cosy mystery that kept me guessing all the way through. It is filled with tension, suspense, murder, red herrings galore and a sprinkle of romance. I had no idea who the killer was so a huge congratulations to Clare!!!! It is getting harder and harder to surprise me with the amount of crime books I read but you definitely managed it. There were so many potential suspects and each one of my guesses were way out!! I enjoyed that it wasn't really a case of just one mystery but how several linked smoothly and everything was tied up nicely at the end, I hate loose ends!! I really enjoyed going on this adventure with Eve and investigating with her. Clare portrays village life perfectly and the community within them in each and every one of her books which makes them even more realistic. I absolutely love reading Eve's obituary at the end of each book and she captivates the personality of the victim absolutely perfectly. I think it is a lovely unique touch and gives a summary of what we learned about them through the story serving as a reminder. I loved the atmosphere at Lovelace Manor with its romantic and yet slightly gothic atmosphere. This book was absolutely filled with surprises and another fantastic addition to the addictive 'Eve Mallow Mystery' series.
Clear your schedules as once you've picked this up you won't be able to put it down!!
Although this is the eighth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
The characters were all realistic, strong and an eclectic bunch to say the least. It was really fun learning all of their different characteristics, personalities and backgrounds. I absolutely love meeting them in each of these series. They have become like friends to me and I find myself missing them as soon as I have closed the pages. When I "meet" them again it is like they have never been away. I love Eve and of course Gus and I really enjoyed meeting them again along with Robin and Viv. I find Eve to be slightly eccentric which I enjoyed the most about her. She has such a large personality which is unforgettable. I always love her interactions with Viv and the both of them together always make me giggle at some point. I was absolutely over the moon when Robin said something to Eve and my reply was "about time!" I have absolutely loved watching their relationship grow and develop and I'm looking forward to seeing how it continues to grow. I also enjoyed meeting all the new characters who all had such strong personalities although I could not stand Sebastian and found him to be a pig who absolutely adored himself, apologies to pigs everywhere!! I won't go into any further detail about him or several other characters as I don't want to give anything away. Regardless, if you love them or hate them they all come together to make this novel yet another amazing success by Clare! I cannot wait to read what Eve, Robin and Gus get up to next!!
Congratulations to Clare Chase on another successful and addictive page turning murder mystery. This is why when I want an addictive cosy mystery which I can read anywhere I hunt your books down. Here's to youe next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely compelling, addictive and page turning gothic cosy mystery that is perfect to read on front of the fire.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Suspense, Cozy Crafts & Hobbies Mystery, Cozy Culinary Mystery, Cozy Animal Mystery and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of cosy mysteries, Faith Martin, Agatha Christie, Frances Evesham, J.R. Ellis and Betty Rowlands.
330 pages.
This book is just £2.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#MysteryAtLovelaceManor #Bookouture #ClareChase #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@ClareChase @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
https://www.instagram.com/bookwormwhi...
April 10, 2022
Eve Mallow fascinates me. On the one hand she lives a buttoned up life as she keeps her private life and growing romance with Robin shrouded in secret. On the other, she's outgoing, well known and liked as a community friend, worker, and volunteer. She definitely more observant than the average person. I mean, who else would spot a tiny hole in a juice bottle and connect it to murder? Or think that a discarded gum wrapper might lead to a meaningful clue? An excellent writer and interviewer, her obituary writing job gives her the perfect excuse to ask questions without being looked askance at. She displays dogged determination to find the truth, even when it puts her in danger, too.
I loved the fact that in her quest to find the truth behind the murder of celebrity dare-devil Cammie, that there were no big reveals. Yes, she gets tiny bits of information here and there, but it's up to her to put it all together. It's fascinating to watch. Death by hot-air balloon isn't exactly a common murder tactic, you have to admit. Toss in a grand, stately home, competing personalities, and the possibility money and prestige is involved and Eve is in the midst of a volatile situation. Then the dead bodies start piling up. What secret could be so dangerous, so harmful, that it has lead someone to commit murder to keep it from being revealed? Or, hmm, was it all about money? Maybe love, or rejected love?
It seemed like for every legitimate clue Eve found, it only lead to more questions. What, if anything, had Cammie discovered in her research? Was Raven friend or foe? Could Diana be involved? How about successful model Sebastian? How could someone ignite the leaking gas from the balloon from the ground? Why was Ralph Roscoe insistent he jump into the balloon basket with Cammie? As the murders pile up, so do the suspects but, then, so does the business for the funeral director. Was he for real? Was he trying to ask Eve for a date or to buy a casket? And....oh, so many more questions, all of which we ponder both on our own and inside Eve's mind as we read.
Despite a deceptively slow beginning as the hot-air balloon murder plot plays out, the plot moves along quickly as Eve pursues gathering info for the obituary she's to write on Cammie. The twists, turns, and misdirection kept me guessing until the end. I liked Eve and Robin, not to mention Eve's little dog Gus. I loved the plot and pace, which kept my attention. Even though I didn't guess "whodunit", it all made sense at the end. Nicely done, Clare Chase. I highly recommend "Mystery at Lovelace Manor".
Thank you #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back into Eve's world again. You can almost see the wheels turning in her brain, even when running for her life.
I loved the fact that in her quest to find the truth behind the murder of celebrity dare-devil Cammie, that there were no big reveals. Yes, she gets tiny bits of information here and there, but it's up to her to put it all together. It's fascinating to watch. Death by hot-air balloon isn't exactly a common murder tactic, you have to admit. Toss in a grand, stately home, competing personalities, and the possibility money and prestige is involved and Eve is in the midst of a volatile situation. Then the dead bodies start piling up. What secret could be so dangerous, so harmful, that it has lead someone to commit murder to keep it from being revealed? Or, hmm, was it all about money? Maybe love, or rejected love?
It seemed like for every legitimate clue Eve found, it only lead to more questions. What, if anything, had Cammie discovered in her research? Was Raven friend or foe? Could Diana be involved? How about successful model Sebastian? How could someone ignite the leaking gas from the balloon from the ground? Why was Ralph Roscoe insistent he jump into the balloon basket with Cammie? As the murders pile up, so do the suspects but, then, so does the business for the funeral director. Was he for real? Was he trying to ask Eve for a date or to buy a casket? And....oh, so many more questions, all of which we ponder both on our own and inside Eve's mind as we read.
Despite a deceptively slow beginning as the hot-air balloon murder plot plays out, the plot moves along quickly as Eve pursues gathering info for the obituary she's to write on Cammie. The twists, turns, and misdirection kept me guessing until the end. I liked Eve and Robin, not to mention Eve's little dog Gus. I loved the plot and pace, which kept my attention. Even though I didn't guess "whodunit", it all made sense at the end. Nicely done, Clare Chase. I highly recommend "Mystery at Lovelace Manor".
Thank you #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back into Eve's world again. You can almost see the wheels turning in her brain, even when running for her life.
May 7, 2022
Lovelace Manor has a well-known romantic heritage which is celebrated annually on Lovelace Sunday. Obituary writer and sometime murder investigator, Eve Mallow, along with best friend and cafe owner Viv, has volunteered to help with setting up everything before selling culinary delights to the many enthusiastic guests.
The cost of the upkeep of the manor is exorbitant and the owner hopes the presence of successful television historian Cammie Harrington will add excitement to the popular event encouraging more crowds to flock through the gates. When tragedy strikes and is determined by the police to be an accident Eve isn't convinced and, after a second death is confirmed, is determined to discover the truth.
This is the eighth book in Clare Chase's wonderful series and the most complex so far. The main protagonists, Eve, Viv, Robin, and of course, trusty dashund, Gus, are all reassuringly familiar and up against a variety of murder suspects all of whom were extremely plausible. I love the relationships, village location and overall cosy atmosphere of these stories which are a pleasure to read. I hope they will continue for a long, long, time.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is one of my favourite series and this is an excellent next installment.
The cost of the upkeep of the manor is exorbitant and the owner hopes the presence of successful television historian Cammie Harrington will add excitement to the popular event encouraging more crowds to flock through the gates. When tragedy strikes and is determined by the police to be an accident Eve isn't convinced and, after a second death is confirmed, is determined to discover the truth.
This is the eighth book in Clare Chase's wonderful series and the most complex so far. The main protagonists, Eve, Viv, Robin, and of course, trusty dashund, Gus, are all reassuringly familiar and up against a variety of murder suspects all of whom were extremely plausible. I love the relationships, village location and overall cosy atmosphere of these stories which are a pleasure to read. I hope they will continue for a long, long, time.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This is one of my favourite series and this is an excellent next installment.
December 10, 2022
Mystery at Lovelace Manor, the eighth book, is another strong entry in Clare Chase’s Eve Mallow cozy mystery series. Like its predecessors, it combines an intrepid amateur sleuth with a clever mystery, lively characters, and a charming town.
In this installment, Eve Mallow is volunteering for the annual festival at Lovelace Manor, a home with a romantic and mysterious history. Historian Cammie Harington is on hand to cover the event for television. However, when a stunt involving a hot air balloon goes awry and Cammie is killed, the questions begin. Was this an accident . . . or murder? Eve Mallow is quick to grab up the assignment of Cammie’s obituary and to take up the charge in solving the mystery. Will her investigation lead to a killer, or to her own demise?
The mystery’s suspense is greatly enhanced by the abundance of family secrets and historical drama that comes to light in the investigation. And the suspects – well, let’s just say there are plenty of people with either motive or opportunity to have committed the crime. Eve has always struck me as the logical, organized type – the perfect combination to keep all of the clues in line. Here, these skills come in particularly useful as the investigation is decidedly linear. As always, Gus, her dachshund, is a faithful companion. I always smile when there is a scene with him. Viv is her usual vibrant self, and I wish we had even more of her in this book. Robin, the former inspector who has assumed a new identity as a gardener, too, is a character I’m always pleased to see. And, even more pleasing, Eve and Robin’s relationship, which has been simmering for some time now, takes a much-needed step forward in this book.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is everything I have come to expect from Clare Chase. These books are an absolute delight, and I will be reading the next book in the series shortly.
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at Lovelace Manor from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
In this installment, Eve Mallow is volunteering for the annual festival at Lovelace Manor, a home with a romantic and mysterious history. Historian Cammie Harington is on hand to cover the event for television. However, when a stunt involving a hot air balloon goes awry and Cammie is killed, the questions begin. Was this an accident . . . or murder? Eve Mallow is quick to grab up the assignment of Cammie’s obituary and to take up the charge in solving the mystery. Will her investigation lead to a killer, or to her own demise?
The mystery’s suspense is greatly enhanced by the abundance of family secrets and historical drama that comes to light in the investigation. And the suspects – well, let’s just say there are plenty of people with either motive or opportunity to have committed the crime. Eve has always struck me as the logical, organized type – the perfect combination to keep all of the clues in line. Here, these skills come in particularly useful as the investigation is decidedly linear. As always, Gus, her dachshund, is a faithful companion. I always smile when there is a scene with him. Viv is her usual vibrant self, and I wish we had even more of her in this book. Robin, the former inspector who has assumed a new identity as a gardener, too, is a character I’m always pleased to see. And, even more pleasing, Eve and Robin’s relationship, which has been simmering for some time now, takes a much-needed step forward in this book.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is everything I have come to expect from Clare Chase. These books are an absolute delight, and I will be reading the next book in the series shortly.
Note: I received an ARC of Mystery at Lovelace Manor from NetGalley and Bookouture. The above is my honest review.
May 16, 2022
It's so nice to be back in Saxford St. Peter with Eve Mallow and friends for another cozy murder mystery. This time, Eve's sleuth skills are put to the test trying to find out what happened to celebrity Cammie Harrington, after a hot-air balloon stunt goes wrong. Was it an accident or was it murder?
This is the eighth in the series, but each book has a standalone mystery, so don't be put off if you haven't read the others.
There's plenty of murder and mayhem along the way during the story, with plenty of suspects, clues and red herrings to keep me guessing.
I loved the setting of Lovelace manor. I love country houses for mystery settings, but this one was extra special with its history, traditions and the myths that surrounded it.
As always, I had my suspicions over who the culprit might be, but it wasn't clear until the end who it was. I was a little annoyed that I had guessed wrong!
Mystery at Lovelace manor is an engrossing and entertaining read, perfect if you love a British cozy mystery.
This is the eighth in the series, but each book has a standalone mystery, so don't be put off if you haven't read the others.
There's plenty of murder and mayhem along the way during the story, with plenty of suspects, clues and red herrings to keep me guessing.
I loved the setting of Lovelace manor. I love country houses for mystery settings, but this one was extra special with its history, traditions and the myths that surrounded it.
As always, I had my suspicions over who the culprit might be, but it wasn't clear until the end who it was. I was a little annoyed that I had guessed wrong!
Mystery at Lovelace manor is an engrossing and entertaining read, perfect if you love a British cozy mystery.
October 16, 2022
I love this series and enjoyed catching up with another Eve Mallow story
June 4, 2022
A good mystery filled with more twists than your average mystery. I enjoy the characters and the setting. But more important of all is a story that keeps you guessing about did it and all the ins and outs. This one definitely delivers.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest opinion.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in return for an honest opinion.
July 6, 2022
Oh dear. Eve Mallow once again makes her way through four deaths all connected to the beautiful, old Lovelace Manor not far from her village. As usual, the story plods along, with Eve overthinking all the clues. But still I keep reading this series, because I do like the settings and admittedly the little village of Saxford St. Peter, along with it's fascinating inhabitants, is quite enchanting.
This time there are four murders all presumably by the same killer, and quite necessary because he or she left too many untidy clues and therefore can't let anyone who knows too much escape. As mentioned, there are things I like in this series; but with Eve constantly repeating what she knows about all the possible leads on her list, it gets rather boring at times. However, much to the chagrin of the local police chief, she always manages to sort it out, even though she puts herself into a great deal of danger being so smart. Somehow, someone always appears at the last moment just in tine to save her.
At least her romance with Robin is heating up. So, as I say, there are things about the series that I do like and I will keep on forging ahead.
This time there are four murders all presumably by the same killer, and quite necessary because he or she left too many untidy clues and therefore can't let anyone who knows too much escape. As mentioned, there are things I like in this series; but with Eve constantly repeating what she knows about all the possible leads on her list, it gets rather boring at times. However, much to the chagrin of the local police chief, she always manages to sort it out, even though she puts herself into a great deal of danger being so smart. Somehow, someone always appears at the last moment just in tine to save her.
At least her romance with Robin is heating up. So, as I say, there are things about the series that I do like and I will keep on forging ahead.
May 19, 2022
Eve Mallow jumps at the opportunity to volunteer for Lovelace Sunday, a big to-do held each year at Lovelace Manor. The manor has quite the history and romantic legend, and this year popular historian Cammie Harrington will be there as well, so Eve figures it will be worth taking part. What she didn’t expect was that she’d be writing Cammie’s obituary and working to solve her murder, too.
Clare Chase writes a delightful mystery! It’s full of people like you’d expect to find in a small English town, and some you might not expect. Eve’s love interest, Robin, is actually in the witness protection program. That tidbit makes their relationship a bit more complicated than most, as they can’t do anything that will risk his true identity being revealed.
Eve is one of my favorite kinds of protagonists – intelligent, keenly observant, and just a bit quirky. I mean, she’s a professional obituary writer. That’s not your everyday kind of job. And she’s got a dachshund. That automatically makes her good people as far as I’m concerned.
Eve’s job drafting Cammie’s obituary gives her an opportunity to ask all sorts of questions to plenty of suspects. It seems like there are any number of people who might have had reason to want Cammie out of the way. Could it be Ralph Roscoe, her university ex-boyfriend, who tried to jump into the hot air balloon at the last minute? What about Diana Pickford-Jones, the owner of Lovelace Manor, who had once been so close to Cammie? Or Diana’s drop-dead gorgeous model brother, Sebastian, and the deep dark secret Cammie said she knew? The taciturn gardener, Josh Standish? And what about the mysterious storyteller, Raven, who may or may not be who she seems to be?
The story is also full of twists and surprises, and even more than one death. Some I saw coming, some I didn’t, and one or two I suspected.
Is there anything really new and unexpected about the story? No. But it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery in a British setting, which I always like. It’s set in a small town, full of characters that I feel like I’d like to know. It’s a quick, easy read, perfect for unwinding after a hard day at work or relaxing in a comfy chair by the pool. If you like a mystery heavy on cozy and light on gory details, with just a touch of romance, I highly recommend Mystery at Lovelace Manor!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy from Bookouture and NetGalley. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
Clare Chase writes a delightful mystery! It’s full of people like you’d expect to find in a small English town, and some you might not expect. Eve’s love interest, Robin, is actually in the witness protection program. That tidbit makes their relationship a bit more complicated than most, as they can’t do anything that will risk his true identity being revealed.
Eve is one of my favorite kinds of protagonists – intelligent, keenly observant, and just a bit quirky. I mean, she’s a professional obituary writer. That’s not your everyday kind of job. And she’s got a dachshund. That automatically makes her good people as far as I’m concerned.
Eve’s job drafting Cammie’s obituary gives her an opportunity to ask all sorts of questions to plenty of suspects. It seems like there are any number of people who might have had reason to want Cammie out of the way. Could it be Ralph Roscoe, her university ex-boyfriend, who tried to jump into the hot air balloon at the last minute? What about Diana Pickford-Jones, the owner of Lovelace Manor, who had once been so close to Cammie? Or Diana’s drop-dead gorgeous model brother, Sebastian, and the deep dark secret Cammie said she knew? The taciturn gardener, Josh Standish? And what about the mysterious storyteller, Raven, who may or may not be who she seems to be?
The story is also full of twists and surprises, and even more than one death. Some I saw coming, some I didn’t, and one or two I suspected.
Is there anything really new and unexpected about the story? No. But it’s an enjoyable cozy mystery in a British setting, which I always like. It’s set in a small town, full of characters that I feel like I’d like to know. It’s a quick, easy read, perfect for unwinding after a hard day at work or relaxing in a comfy chair by the pool. If you like a mystery heavy on cozy and light on gory details, with just a touch of romance, I highly recommend Mystery at Lovelace Manor!
Disclaimer: I received an advance review copy from Bookouture and NetGalley. All opinions here are mine, and I don’t say nice things about books I don’t actually like.
July 12, 2022
Eve Mallow has now settled into life in the village of Saxford St Peter in Suffolk, following her move from London and divorce from her controlling husband. She earns her living as an obituary writer. It is her style to learn everything she can about the deceased which evolves interviewing the people who knew the person throughout their life, which has resulted in her turning into an amateur sleuth.
Our story opens with the annual event at one of the oldest grand old, moated houses that dates back to medieval times, although a later added wing is Tudor. Lovelace Manor is just a few miles from Saxford St Peter. The current owner is Diana Pickford-Jones. The annual event is associated with the love story of Diana and her half-brother Sebastian’s great-grandparents Louisa Lovelace and the then gardener Seth Pickford. They had fallen passionately in love and eloped. And so, each year their love story is celebrated.
Diana has this year invited the famous TV celebrity Cammie Harrington, who is planning a stunt with a hot air balloon.
Along with Moira from the post office and Viv who runs the local café where Eve works part time, and several others, Eve jumps at the chance to volunteer to help get everything ready for the big day. It also gives her a bird’s eye view of what is happening. Is she nosy? Who Eve? Perish the thought.
But soon it becomes clear that there are many tensions bubbling beneath the surface of this pleasant day. And when the day turns into disaster as the hot-air balloon catches fire the question is ‘Was this an unfortunate accident’ or was it orchestrated? If so, is there a killer at Lovelace Manor?
With her ear to the ground Eve learns that all was far from well between Diana and Cammie, who were once like mother and daughter, and half-brother Sebastian who is expecting to inherit the manor from Diana, but does she have other ideas. Into this mix comes Raven, the storyteller, who seems at odds with everyone, including Josh Standish the gardener. I wonder why?
This is an intriguing mystery I veered from character to character trying to work out just who was killer. Another murder didn’t help it just had me even more confused. And how do the Lovelace missing heirlooms fit in? Like all good mysteries one must look to the secrets of the past to unravel the problems of the present.
A terrific read. Highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
Our story opens with the annual event at one of the oldest grand old, moated houses that dates back to medieval times, although a later added wing is Tudor. Lovelace Manor is just a few miles from Saxford St Peter. The current owner is Diana Pickford-Jones. The annual event is associated with the love story of Diana and her half-brother Sebastian’s great-grandparents Louisa Lovelace and the then gardener Seth Pickford. They had fallen passionately in love and eloped. And so, each year their love story is celebrated.
Diana has this year invited the famous TV celebrity Cammie Harrington, who is planning a stunt with a hot air balloon.
Along with Moira from the post office and Viv who runs the local café where Eve works part time, and several others, Eve jumps at the chance to volunteer to help get everything ready for the big day. It also gives her a bird’s eye view of what is happening. Is she nosy? Who Eve? Perish the thought.
But soon it becomes clear that there are many tensions bubbling beneath the surface of this pleasant day. And when the day turns into disaster as the hot-air balloon catches fire the question is ‘Was this an unfortunate accident’ or was it orchestrated? If so, is there a killer at Lovelace Manor?
With her ear to the ground Eve learns that all was far from well between Diana and Cammie, who were once like mother and daughter, and half-brother Sebastian who is expecting to inherit the manor from Diana, but does she have other ideas. Into this mix comes Raven, the storyteller, who seems at odds with everyone, including Josh Standish the gardener. I wonder why?
This is an intriguing mystery I veered from character to character trying to work out just who was killer. Another murder didn’t help it just had me even more confused. And how do the Lovelace missing heirlooms fit in? Like all good mysteries one must look to the secrets of the past to unravel the problems of the present.
A terrific read. Highly recommended.
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Reviewer: Lizzie Sirett
May 17, 2022
Wowsers! Book 8 and still as fresh as the series opener... The novelty of the main character being a rather quirky obituary writer has also not lost its shine at all. I even played a guessing game with my book buddie to guess the profession of Eve and they were completely flummoxed, and shocked (in a good way) when I divulged... But that's by the by... It's a cracking series and although the main story is self-contained, do yourself a favour and meet and get to know the characters properly by starting from book one... You'll thank me later!
So... Lovelace Sunday, an annual affair set at Lovelace Manor. Guest starring Cammie Harrington, a famous TV historian who has done her own research on the family and history of both them and the manor itself. But before she could expand further, there's a tragic accident. A hot air balloon bursts into flames and she plummets to her death. Eve is on hand to witness but, well, isn't convinced that it was an accident. But who would want Cammie dead? Aficionados of the series will know where this is now going... The police will bungle things, Eve will get the gig to write Cammie's obit and, in doing so, will gain access to family & friends and be able to begin her own investigation... And that's where we go...
It's cosy crime at its very best. Yes, it's a wee bit formulaic but... and here's the rub, if it works, it works! And it does. I love dipping into village life, catching up with the series characters - main and bit-part - every one giving that little bit to the whole to make the story either progress, or to add some comedy or respite to the proceedings. Or, in this case, a little romance too...
And the crimes are always well plotted and ably executed, little clues dotted here and there, some of which I pick up, others fall by the wayside. There's always something to shock and surprise along the way. And, at the end of the day, all comes to a wholly satisfying conclusion.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be one of my favourite series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
So... Lovelace Sunday, an annual affair set at Lovelace Manor. Guest starring Cammie Harrington, a famous TV historian who has done her own research on the family and history of both them and the manor itself. But before she could expand further, there's a tragic accident. A hot air balloon bursts into flames and she plummets to her death. Eve is on hand to witness but, well, isn't convinced that it was an accident. But who would want Cammie dead? Aficionados of the series will know where this is now going... The police will bungle things, Eve will get the gig to write Cammie's obit and, in doing so, will gain access to family & friends and be able to begin her own investigation... And that's where we go...
It's cosy crime at its very best. Yes, it's a wee bit formulaic but... and here's the rub, if it works, it works! And it does. I love dipping into village life, catching up with the series characters - main and bit-part - every one giving that little bit to the whole to make the story either progress, or to add some comedy or respite to the proceedings. Or, in this case, a little romance too...
And the crimes are always well plotted and ably executed, little clues dotted here and there, some of which I pick up, others fall by the wayside. There's always something to shock and surprise along the way. And, at the end of the day, all comes to a wholly satisfying conclusion.
All in all, a cracking addition to what is shaping up to be one of my favourite series. Roll on next time. My thanks go to the Publisher and Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
May 20, 2022
Mystery at Lovelace Manor by Clare Chase is an Eve Mallow mystery. Eve is in top form here, although I would like to see her solve a mystery without almost dying at the hands of the perpetrator. It gets old. Eve is volunteering at the annual festival at Lovelace Manor, celebrating the romance between a disowned daughter of the house and her gardener lover. They ran away, but eventually returned after being left the house. It had items of interest, but more importantly the myth that those who attended were promised a happy life; the walled garden promised luck in love. It was a lovely story and a lovely festival. The house itself was expensive to maintain and in danger of being razed or turned into condos.
Eve had a list of suspects, some of which were quickly eliminated when they were themselves murdered. As always, Robin, Eve's gentleman friend was deeply involved in the investigation, including his duties as bodyguard. The first death was of a young woman in a hot air balloon, when it caught fire and she was unable to escape. That turned into an interesting story and broke the string of murders wide open for Eve. Her cover, talking to people, ostensibly writing obituaries for national magazines, stood her in good stead as always although not everyone was interested in talking. This series and this book, in particular, are entertaining cozies with a different perspective and are well worth your time.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at Lovelace Manor by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #clarechase #mysteryatlovelacemanor
Eve had a list of suspects, some of which were quickly eliminated when they were themselves murdered. As always, Robin, Eve's gentleman friend was deeply involved in the investigation, including his duties as bodyguard. The first death was of a young woman in a hot air balloon, when it caught fire and she was unable to escape. That turned into an interesting story and broke the string of murders wide open for Eve. Her cover, talking to people, ostensibly writing obituaries for national magazines, stood her in good stead as always although not everyone was interested in talking. This series and this book, in particular, are entertaining cozies with a different perspective and are well worth your time.
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of Mystery at Lovelace Manor by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #clarechase #mysteryatlovelacemanor
May 22, 2022
"Lovelace Manor has a famous past… but when a historian becomes history at its annual open day, amateur sleuth Eve Mallow is on the case!"
Eve volunteered to help with preparations for and at Lovelace Sunday thus providing her with the perfect opportunity to meet and observe the key players in the lead up to the balloon crash. The trick is to sort out what games and lies some are playing and why. There are several suspects for the initial death but then things get far more complicated and Eve has her work cut out for her to figure out who is behind all of the happenings.
My thoughts:
This is book #8 in the Eve Mallow Mystery Series by Clare Chase and it does not disappoint!
Ms Chase writes fascinating stories of murder. The characters are well thought out and the reasoning behind the murder(s) is often complex and deeply layered.
Eve is intelligent, thorough and yet still ends up in some sticky situations before the guilty is in custody.
Her relationship with Robin is tender. There time together is secret out of necessity, but also an opportunity for them to share information on the case and a welcome romance.
Viv is a hoot as she insists on being kept in the loop of the investigation and taking part when she can. On the other hand, Moira in her position as village store owner and chief gossip could drive a person round the bend with her penchant for nosiness. (She'd also make a lousy match maker!)
I'm already looking forward to "Mystery at Southwood School" which releases in November 2022!
Eve volunteered to help with preparations for and at Lovelace Sunday thus providing her with the perfect opportunity to meet and observe the key players in the lead up to the balloon crash. The trick is to sort out what games and lies some are playing and why. There are several suspects for the initial death but then things get far more complicated and Eve has her work cut out for her to figure out who is behind all of the happenings.
My thoughts:
This is book #8 in the Eve Mallow Mystery Series by Clare Chase and it does not disappoint!
Ms Chase writes fascinating stories of murder. The characters are well thought out and the reasoning behind the murder(s) is often complex and deeply layered.
Eve is intelligent, thorough and yet still ends up in some sticky situations before the guilty is in custody.
Her relationship with Robin is tender. There time together is secret out of necessity, but also an opportunity for them to share information on the case and a welcome romance.
Viv is a hoot as she insists on being kept in the loop of the investigation and taking part when she can. On the other hand, Moira in her position as village store owner and chief gossip could drive a person round the bend with her penchant for nosiness. (She'd also make a lousy match maker!)
I'm already looking forward to "Mystery at Southwood School" which releases in November 2022!
May 23, 2022
I am delighted to be catching up with the latest happenings in this charming cozy mystery series. It was great to be back with Eve and her beloved dachshund Gus who live in the sweet little village of Saxford St Peter.
Amateur sleuth, tea-shop employee and obituary writer, Eve just keeps getting better and better with each story. I find her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing, which is a credit to Clare Chase's writing skills, and I feel as though I am meeting up with an old friend when I'm reading a new Eve Mallow mystery. Her dog, Gus is also a favourite who has captured my heart. The author's superb and varied characterisation is fantastic, and in this brilliant story, there is certainly no shortage of suspects, as Eve realises.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor has a well-thought-out, compelling plot, and enough twists to keep the most demanding armchair sleuth satisfied. Clare Chase always writes with such flair and an easy style and this was a story that held my attention well, loving my escape into Eve's world of diabolical deeds. Whilst I recommend reading the books in order, you don’t need to be familiar with the characters to fully enjoy these mysteries. I am eagerly anticipating what Clare Chase has in store for Eve Mallow next, in book nine, Mystery at Southwood School.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
Amateur sleuth, tea-shop employee and obituary writer, Eve just keeps getting better and better with each story. I find her ebullience, confidence and intuitiveness very refreshing, which is a credit to Clare Chase's writing skills, and I feel as though I am meeting up with an old friend when I'm reading a new Eve Mallow mystery. Her dog, Gus is also a favourite who has captured my heart. The author's superb and varied characterisation is fantastic, and in this brilliant story, there is certainly no shortage of suspects, as Eve realises.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor has a well-thought-out, compelling plot, and enough twists to keep the most demanding armchair sleuth satisfied. Clare Chase always writes with such flair and an easy style and this was a story that held my attention well, loving my escape into Eve's world of diabolical deeds. Whilst I recommend reading the books in order, you don’t need to be familiar with the characters to fully enjoy these mysteries. I am eagerly anticipating what Clare Chase has in store for Eve Mallow next, in book nine, Mystery at Southwood School.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my unbiased opinion.
November 26, 2023
In another enthralling and colourful mystery, obituary writer Eve Mallow is once again on the trail of a murderer. Adventurer and celebrity, Cammie Harington, takes off in a hot air balloon as a climax to the open day at Lovelace Manor. But a fire in the basket of the balloon leads to an explosion and her death.
It all looks like a tragic accident until evidence reveals foul play. Determined to uncover the truth, Eve starts to piece together a number of minor and seemingly unconnected events that reveal secrets, affairs and arguments among the well-heeled of Lovelace Manor and those connected with the estate.
Narrowing down the list of suspects to reveal the killer is no mean feat when the motive for the murder is not clear. But the deeper Eve probes, the more risks she takes. The tension mounts and as the truth becomes clear in an unexpected twist, another exciting climax beckons.
I’ve followed Eve and the delightful characters of Saxford St Peter through every book in this original and engaging series. There’s humour, romance and all the gossip you’d expect from a small village. The characters and relationships have evolved and developed, adding something extra to my enjoyment and entertainment.
There is something warm and captivating about life in Saxford St Peter to balance out the murders Eve investigates. Looking forward to more adventures in the next book in the series.
It all looks like a tragic accident until evidence reveals foul play. Determined to uncover the truth, Eve starts to piece together a number of minor and seemingly unconnected events that reveal secrets, affairs and arguments among the well-heeled of Lovelace Manor and those connected with the estate.
Narrowing down the list of suspects to reveal the killer is no mean feat when the motive for the murder is not clear. But the deeper Eve probes, the more risks she takes. The tension mounts and as the truth becomes clear in an unexpected twist, another exciting climax beckons.
I’ve followed Eve and the delightful characters of Saxford St Peter through every book in this original and engaging series. There’s humour, romance and all the gossip you’d expect from a small village. The characters and relationships have evolved and developed, adding something extra to my enjoyment and entertainment.
There is something warm and captivating about life in Saxford St Peter to balance out the murders Eve investigates. Looking forward to more adventures in the next book in the series.
May 13, 2022
Everyone in Saxford St Peter flocks to Lovelace Sunday, the festival celebrating the romantic history of beautiful Lovelace Manor. This year will be even more exciting, as famous TV historian Cammie Harington is planning a spectacular stunt with a hot-air balloon. Eve Mallow jumps at the chance to volunteer as it’s a great people-watching opportunity. When Cammie’s hot-air balloon tumbles from the sky, Eve feels sure this is no accident. Alongside dachshund Gus, she sets to work investigating the mystery, piecing together all the odd things she’s seen and heard. Then the body count rises.
This is the eighth outing for Eve & whilst it could be read on its own over the series relationships have developed & grown especially Eve’s relationship with Robin & also Eve's friendship with Viv. There are plenty of suspects as well as plenty of red herrings & of course twists & turns. There are secrets, which are gradually revealed & it isn't until the climax that Eve puts it all together. I also loved the final page when declarations are made. An engrossing read, which I thoroughly enjoyed & I didn’t work out who the villain was - always a bonus. I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the eighth outing for Eve & whilst it could be read on its own over the series relationships have developed & grown especially Eve’s relationship with Robin & also Eve's friendship with Viv. There are plenty of suspects as well as plenty of red herrings & of course twists & turns. There are secrets, which are gradually revealed & it isn't until the climax that Eve puts it all together. I also loved the final page when declarations are made. An engrossing read, which I thoroughly enjoyed & I didn’t work out who the villain was - always a bonus. I look forward to more in the series
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
January 24, 2025
An annual festival at Lovelace Manor ends in tragedy with the death of a celebrity historian in a bizarre hot air balloon incident. Amateur sleuth and professional obituary writer Eve Mallow is on hand to investigate the tangled relationships that could provide the motive and identify the killer...
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is the eighth book in the Eve Mallow series.
The book starts with the balloon incident and then goes back in time a couple of days to show events leading up to the death. Relationships between the victim and a host of suspects are strained so Eve has plenty of people to investigate.
The familiar characters from the rest of the series return including Gus the dachshund. Eve and Robin are still keeping their romance a secret which adds another dimension to their characters and the plot.
The book is written in the third person, mainly showing Eve's perspective. There is little violence or graphic detail about the victim's injuries. The plot develops at a moderate pace as Eve explores the alibis and motives of the suspects. I liked the way that the author maintained the mystery and kept me guessing.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery novel.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is the eighth book in the Eve Mallow series.
The book starts with the balloon incident and then goes back in time a couple of days to show events leading up to the death. Relationships between the victim and a host of suspects are strained so Eve has plenty of people to investigate.
The familiar characters from the rest of the series return including Gus the dachshund. Eve and Robin are still keeping their romance a secret which adds another dimension to their characters and the plot.
The book is written in the third person, mainly showing Eve's perspective. There is little violence or graphic detail about the victim's injuries. The plot develops at a moderate pace as Eve explores the alibis and motives of the suspects. I liked the way that the author maintained the mystery and kept me guessing.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery novel.
May 15, 2022
4.5* upped to 5
It's always a pleasure read a new novel featuring Eve Mallow as there's a continuous improvement and the mysteries are always solid and an interesting puzzle to solve.
Clare Chase is an excellent storyteller and this story kept me turning pages and I ended it in one setting.
I think that Ms Chase always pays homage to a Golden Age trope and there's a couple in this story too: I won't talk about it because I don't wan to spoil any relevant details of the story.
Eve is a lovely character: clever, curious and never reckless. I love her and I love Gus and the cast of characters.
It would be great if there could be a new police inspector as it would be an interesting twists.
The mystery is darker and more complex that usual, there's plenty of secrets and surprises. I had some doubts about the culprit but I wasn't able to guess the motive. The solutions surprised me as there were some expected twists.
A highly entertaining, compelling, and gripping cozy mystery that I loved.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It's always a pleasure read a new novel featuring Eve Mallow as there's a continuous improvement and the mysteries are always solid and an interesting puzzle to solve.
Clare Chase is an excellent storyteller and this story kept me turning pages and I ended it in one setting.
I think that Ms Chase always pays homage to a Golden Age trope and there's a couple in this story too: I won't talk about it because I don't wan to spoil any relevant details of the story.
Eve is a lovely character: clever, curious and never reckless. I love her and I love Gus and the cast of characters.
It would be great if there could be a new police inspector as it would be an interesting twists.
The mystery is darker and more complex that usual, there's plenty of secrets and surprises. I had some doubts about the culprit but I wasn't able to guess the motive. The solutions surprised me as there were some expected twists.
A highly entertaining, compelling, and gripping cozy mystery that I loved.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
January 17, 2023
If you enjoy reading a cosy mystery
One set in a Manor with lots of history
Involving secrets, plans and murder, too,
This could be the book that's right for you!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book today
A great read, a page turner, I have to say.
With Eve Mallow unable to resist the desire
To investigate events, starting with a deadly fire.
The Manor is famous for a long ago romance
With visitors dreaming of a similar chance.
The annual open day is popular, too,
With lots of people coming to view.
A TV historian is the guest of honour this year
But her planned spectacular costs her dear.
As Eve endeavours to discover what happened then
She's on the track of a killer again.
Get ready for characters to distrust....
Following the clues uncovered is a must!
Can you identify who did what - and why
Despite all the twists, secrets and lies?
I really enjoyed reading this book
And highly recommend you give it more than a look
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
An intriguing, enthralling read and this is my honest review.
One set in a Manor with lots of history
Involving secrets, plans and murder, too,
This could be the book that's right for you!
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book today
A great read, a page turner, I have to say.
With Eve Mallow unable to resist the desire
To investigate events, starting with a deadly fire.
The Manor is famous for a long ago romance
With visitors dreaming of a similar chance.
The annual open day is popular, too,
With lots of people coming to view.
A TV historian is the guest of honour this year
But her planned spectacular costs her dear.
As Eve endeavours to discover what happened then
She's on the track of a killer again.
Get ready for characters to distrust....
Following the clues uncovered is a must!
Can you identify who did what - and why
Despite all the twists, secrets and lies?
I really enjoyed reading this book
And highly recommend you give it more than a look
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
An intriguing, enthralling read and this is my honest review.
June 30, 2025
My favourite amateur sleuth and her trusty sidekick, dachshund Gus, are back to sniff out a killer in the 8th instalment in this wonderful series.
Lovelace Manor, home to its annual Lovelace Sunday Festival, brings the residents of Saxon St Peter together for a day of fun. With special guest, TV historian Cammie Harington, there is a lot of excitement in the air. But things take a deadly turn for Cammie when a stunt in a hot-air balloon goes terribly wrong.
I really enjoyed this latest fresh mystery and piecing together the puzzle. What I love the most, is how it is never obvious who the killer is and how we are given enough characters, each with their own different issues with Cammie, to make them a suspect.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is another super fun cozy read that has been impeccably written and executed. I just love the series and its characters more with each book and I am so excited that book 9 will be released in November. I will be very impatiently waiting to read this one!
Lovelace Manor, home to its annual Lovelace Sunday Festival, brings the residents of Saxon St Peter together for a day of fun. With special guest, TV historian Cammie Harington, there is a lot of excitement in the air. But things take a deadly turn for Cammie when a stunt in a hot-air balloon goes terribly wrong.
I really enjoyed this latest fresh mystery and piecing together the puzzle. What I love the most, is how it is never obvious who the killer is and how we are given enough characters, each with their own different issues with Cammie, to make them a suspect.
Mystery at Lovelace Manor is another super fun cozy read that has been impeccably written and executed. I just love the series and its characters more with each book and I am so excited that book 9 will be released in November. I will be very impatiently waiting to read this one!
April 15, 2022
I was looking forward to reading Eve Mallow's newest sleuthing adventure and I'm now pleased to report that, like the previous seven books in the series, it entirely lived up to my expectations.
It starts with what looks like an accident, in unusual circonstances (a balloon crash during a fete), and even before that Eve has started noticing intriguing behaviour from future suspects and victims. Then, as usual, I greatly enjoyed following her as she interviewed people, gathered clues and discovered secrets.
For those who haven't read the previous books yet, this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book unless you already have this one, can't buy the others immediately and really don't mind partial spoilers.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
It starts with what looks like an accident, in unusual circonstances (a balloon crash during a fete), and even before that Eve has started noticing intriguing behaviour from future suspects and victims. Then, as usual, I greatly enjoyed following her as she interviewed people, gathered clues and discovered secrets.
For those who haven't read the previous books yet, this one wouldn't spoil the ending of either of the others but would reveal the secret of one suspect from the first, so I still recommend to start with the first book unless you already have this one, can't buy the others immediately and really don't mind partial spoilers.
I received an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2022
Eve Mallow volunteered to help out with the annual festival at Lovelace Manor, the largest old home in Saxford St. Peter so she could finally get to see it up close. Cammie Harrington, a well-known t.v. historian had been delving into the Manor's past and promised to announce some amazing facts she'd uncovered about its' history. Before that could happen though, Cammie (who also thrived on doing dangerous stunts) dies in a hot air balloon ascent gone wrong as the festival is in full swing. At first it appears to be an accident. Then a discovery of a poisoned drink in Cammie's refrigerator reveals that someone was definitely trying to kill her.
These Eve Mallow mysteries just keep getting better. I look forward to each new one that comes out. I love the characters from the town who appear in every book, as well as those who are central to the plot. I did not figure out who the murderer was until it was revealed in the final chapters.
These Eve Mallow mysteries just keep getting better. I look forward to each new one that comes out. I love the characters from the town who appear in every book, as well as those who are central to the plot. I did not figure out who the murderer was until it was revealed in the final chapters.
May 22, 2022
This was a most enjoyable read. There was intrigue and the twists and turns were most engaging. There was even some eyebrow raising in surprise at one point!! It's a great addition ( Book 8) to the Eve Mallow #cozymystery series. I particularly liked the inclusion of some of the other villagers in this story (of course, it's not that we don't love the coffee shop and pub crew but a broader cast is. most welcome).; their involvement was cleverly done and their roles were integral to the plot. Well Done!
Lovely to see the romance move along at least a smidge.... perhaps a little more here? I'll admit to being just a little impatient here.
So looking forward to reading the next in this series.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Bookouture and the author, Clare Chase, for my free advanced reader copy to review in exchange for an honest opinion.
Lovely to see the romance move along at least a smidge.... perhaps a little more here? I'll admit to being just a little impatient here.
So looking forward to reading the next in this series.
With thanks to #NetGalley, Bookouture and the author, Clare Chase, for my free advanced reader copy to review in exchange for an honest opinion.
April 18, 2022
Mystery at Lovelace Manor Is the first book that I have read in this series and it may be read as a standalone though there are references to past books. As Cammie’s Hot Air balloon tumbles from the sky, with it falling, another murder mystery tumbles into Eve’s lap.
Cozy Mystery comfort at its best, slipping into this book is like slipping into the comfiest cashmere sweater. As Eve starts to look into Cammie’s death, more bodies pile up with their own secrets. Eve must uncover the killer before she falls victim. I absolutely adored this delightful cozy mystery with its cast of quirky but loveable characters and charming setting, I could picture myself enjoying a tour of Lovelace Manor. I enjoyed this book and will have to go back and read the previous installments.
Cozy Mystery comfort at its best, slipping into this book is like slipping into the comfiest cashmere sweater. As Eve starts to look into Cammie’s death, more bodies pile up with their own secrets. Eve must uncover the killer before she falls victim. I absolutely adored this delightful cozy mystery with its cast of quirky but loveable characters and charming setting, I could picture myself enjoying a tour of Lovelace Manor. I enjoyed this book and will have to go back and read the previous installments.
May 22, 2022
Mystery at Lovelace Manor sees Eve helping out at a local manor house's annual festival. The manor has a romantic past, but the current owner, newly widowed Diana, struggles with the upkeep, and her stepbrother is of little help. When Cammie, a celebrity historian, meets with an untimely accident, Eve's investigation is increasingly dangerous and twisted.
There are many motives and suspects in this cosy mystery. It immerses the reader in the story through amateur sleuth Eve's methodical investigations. The characters are believably flawed, and they all have credible motives for the murders. The ending is exciting and menacing.
I enjoyed the characters and clever plotting in this engaging and entertaining cosy mystery.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
There are many motives and suspects in this cosy mystery. It immerses the reader in the story through amateur sleuth Eve's methodical investigations. The characters are believably flawed, and they all have credible motives for the murders. The ending is exciting and menacing.
I enjoyed the characters and clever plotting in this engaging and entertaining cosy mystery.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
June 10, 2022
Four murders in Saxford, will our Eve be number five?
It's Lovelace Sunday - an event of epic proportions - and Eve is on hand as a volunteer. But that puts her squarely in place for the first murder, which Palmer - true to form - is happy to write off as accidental.
Chase's characters are friends by now, and catching up with them as they delve into a new murder is, as always, a guarantee of intrigue and adventure. With some duplicity thrown in just to make it interesting.
If you haven't visited Saxford St Peter yet, start with this one. I guarantee you'll be picking up all the previous volumes too. Easily read as a stand alone, why would you though, when each new Eve adventure is better than the previous one?
It's Lovelace Sunday - an event of epic proportions - and Eve is on hand as a volunteer. But that puts her squarely in place for the first murder, which Palmer - true to form - is happy to write off as accidental.
Chase's characters are friends by now, and catching up with them as they delve into a new murder is, as always, a guarantee of intrigue and adventure. With some duplicity thrown in just to make it interesting.
If you haven't visited Saxford St Peter yet, start with this one. I guarantee you'll be picking up all the previous volumes too. Easily read as a stand alone, why would you though, when each new Eve adventure is better than the previous one?
June 19, 2022
Another lovely cozy mystery in the Eve Mallow series, this one set at Lovelace Manor.
A series of twists and turns and Eve is once again embroiled in murder and mystery as a local Manor House is setting up for an annual event with a celebrity balloon ride set to start proceedings off in style. However the celebration is quickly over as the balloon catches fire and the first death is recorded.
This series is very well written and again this book was easy to read and very enjoyable. Highly recommended that readers start from the first and read them all to understand the relationships of the main characters, however it would still be good also as a standalone.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
A series of twists and turns and Eve is once again embroiled in murder and mystery as a local Manor House is setting up for an annual event with a celebrity balloon ride set to start proceedings off in style. However the celebration is quickly over as the balloon catches fire and the first death is recorded.
This series is very well written and again this book was easy to read and very enjoyable. Highly recommended that readers start from the first and read them all to understand the relationships of the main characters, however it would still be good also as a standalone.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
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