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Dickens & Christie #7
Pets, Pens & Murder
A conference of crime-loving readers. A shocking discovery of a corpse. Can a sleuth and her charming four-legged sidekicks uncover the fatal twist?
Torquay, Southwest England. Leta Parker can’t wait to reconnect with her boyfriend. After a year of long-distance, she couldn’t be happier to join him at a literary crime festival. But on the event’s second night, she gets embroiled in a real-life murder mystery when a dead body is found…
With a cloud of accusation hovering over Leta’s best friend, not even she and her talking furry companions can untangle the confusing web of complex clues. Add a flirty and fiery redhead all over her boyfriend, and this super-smart snoop’s nerves are bubbling to a boiling point.
Can Leta and the Little Old Ladies’ Detective Agency expose the killer before another deadly page is turned?
Pets, Pens & Murder is the thrilling seventh book in the Dickens & Christie cozy mystery series. If you like classic amateur detective stories, delightfully well-educated characters, and a good dose of a stiff British upper lip, then you’ll love Kathy Manos Penn’s seaside whodunnit.
Torquay, Southwest England. Leta Parker can’t wait to reconnect with her boyfriend. After a year of long-distance, she couldn’t be happier to join him at a literary crime festival. But on the event’s second night, she gets embroiled in a real-life murder mystery when a dead body is found…
With a cloud of accusation hovering over Leta’s best friend, not even she and her talking furry companions can untangle the confusing web of complex clues. Add a flirty and fiery redhead all over her boyfriend, and this super-smart snoop’s nerves are bubbling to a boiling point.
Can Leta and the Little Old Ladies’ Detective Agency expose the killer before another deadly page is turned?
Pets, Pens & Murder is the thrilling seventh book in the Dickens & Christie cozy mystery series. If you like classic amateur detective stories, delightfully well-educated characters, and a good dose of a stiff British upper lip, then you’ll love Kathy Manos Penn’s seaside whodunnit.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2022
124 people are currently reading
45 people want to read
About the author
Kathy Manos Penn
29 books178 followersKathy Manos Penn lives in Sandy Springs, Georgia with her husband and her four-legged office assistants. When she dreamed of retiring from corporate America, she envisioned indulging in her favorite pastimes—reading, traveling, and writing columns for her local paper. Taking her bucket list trip to England was a top priority.
A second career as an author was never part of the plan—until someone uttered the fateful words, “You should write a cozy mystery.”
Twelve books later, readers can’t get enough of the Dickens & Christie mystery series. Kathy adheres to the adage to write what you know and populates her mysteries with well-read, witty senior women, a loyal dog, and a sassy cat.
Her two four-legged office assistants inspire the personalities of Dickens & Christie. Why is Dickens a fiend for belly rubs? Because Kathy’s real-life dog is. The same goes for Christie’s finicky eating habits and penchant for lolling on top of the desk or in the file drawer. She gets it from the calico cat who rules the roost.
How does Kathy describe her life? “I’m living a dream I never knew I had.”
Book I in the series, Bells, Tails & Murder, won a 2020 Readers’ Favorite Gold Award, and Pets, Pens & Murder, Book VII, garnered a 2023 Georgia Author of the Year nomination.
A second career as an author was never part of the plan—until someone uttered the fateful words, “You should write a cozy mystery.”
Twelve books later, readers can’t get enough of the Dickens & Christie mystery series. Kathy adheres to the adage to write what you know and populates her mysteries with well-read, witty senior women, a loyal dog, and a sassy cat.
Her two four-legged office assistants inspire the personalities of Dickens & Christie. Why is Dickens a fiend for belly rubs? Because Kathy’s real-life dog is. The same goes for Christie’s finicky eating habits and penchant for lolling on top of the desk or in the file drawer. She gets it from the calico cat who rules the roost.
How does Kathy describe her life? “I’m living a dream I never knew I had.”
Book I in the series, Bells, Tails & Murder, won a 2020 Readers’ Favorite Gold Award, and Pets, Pens & Murder, Book VII, garnered a 2023 Georgia Author of the Year nomination.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
September 9, 2022
How would you react if you were accused of murder? Leta finds herself in just that position in this installment of the Dickens and Christie Mystery series. And it all started over a seemingly fun jaunt to a literary festival with boyfriend Dave, newly relocated to England from the US, and friends, aka the self dubbed LOLs (Little Old Ladies).
I love the depth of Kathy Manos Penn's writing. Not only do we have well developed characters, both likable and not, but there is a depth to this cozy mystery series. It left me asking myself why someone would be driven to kill. And, not only do we have a twisted killer but romance, friends helping friends, tours of Agatha Christie's residences and frequented spots, plus a wicked smart cat and dog that speak to Leta and join with boyfriend Dave to keep her safe. Toss in so many literary references that I lost count, and glimpses of some of Agatha Christie's most frequented places, and I was in heaven. Oh, and as with many discussions that involve Christie, a bit of a tutorial on poisons. Well, it was a gathering of the mystery lovers, so perhaps that is expected. What isn't expected, however, a real murder.
I won't detail the plot as it's fascinating to try to sort things out along with Leta and her sleuthing friends. Even better, they're not on their home turf. I was delighted to see Dave has not just arrived to stay in England but seems to have fit easily into the group. And, as a cozy mystery fan, it was fun to be able to be a fly on the wall at some of the fictional sessions held at the festival. I've never been to such a festival but imagine it would be fascinating tho' fear my shallow depth of knowledge about the genre and its authors would leave my head spinning.
Anyway, the plot centers about who killed festival organizer Emily. There are several suspects, none of them Leta. Only later, when a suspect who Leta has mentally and vocally labeled a stalker is killed does Leta, who finds the body, probably predictably, become a potential suspect. Leta will need every bit of her powers of observation and putting together clues to clear herself and find the true killer. Leta being Leta, it probably goes without saying that she will find herself in danger at one point but, well, I didn't see the ending coming. There is a great deal of depth to it as we discover the motivations of the killer and what drove them to kill. In the process, we're introduced to new sights and characters and, quite frankly, I had a blast enjoying my virtual visit with Leta and the very likable friends.
If you haven't read this series, don't wait another moment. Grab this book and be ready to lose yourself in the story. You'll also want to check out some of the books/suggestions at the end.
I love the depth of Kathy Manos Penn's writing. Not only do we have well developed characters, both likable and not, but there is a depth to this cozy mystery series. It left me asking myself why someone would be driven to kill. And, not only do we have a twisted killer but romance, friends helping friends, tours of Agatha Christie's residences and frequented spots, plus a wicked smart cat and dog that speak to Leta and join with boyfriend Dave to keep her safe. Toss in so many literary references that I lost count, and glimpses of some of Agatha Christie's most frequented places, and I was in heaven. Oh, and as with many discussions that involve Christie, a bit of a tutorial on poisons. Well, it was a gathering of the mystery lovers, so perhaps that is expected. What isn't expected, however, a real murder.
I won't detail the plot as it's fascinating to try to sort things out along with Leta and her sleuthing friends. Even better, they're not on their home turf. I was delighted to see Dave has not just arrived to stay in England but seems to have fit easily into the group. And, as a cozy mystery fan, it was fun to be able to be a fly on the wall at some of the fictional sessions held at the festival. I've never been to such a festival but imagine it would be fascinating tho' fear my shallow depth of knowledge about the genre and its authors would leave my head spinning.
Anyway, the plot centers about who killed festival organizer Emily. There are several suspects, none of them Leta. Only later, when a suspect who Leta has mentally and vocally labeled a stalker is killed does Leta, who finds the body, probably predictably, become a potential suspect. Leta will need every bit of her powers of observation and putting together clues to clear herself and find the true killer. Leta being Leta, it probably goes without saying that she will find herself in danger at one point but, well, I didn't see the ending coming. There is a great deal of depth to it as we discover the motivations of the killer and what drove them to kill. In the process, we're introduced to new sights and characters and, quite frankly, I had a blast enjoying my virtual visit with Leta and the very likable friends.
If you haven't read this series, don't wait another moment. Grab this book and be ready to lose yourself in the story. You'll also want to check out some of the books/suggestions at the end.
April 10, 2022
Another wonderful adventure with Leta and the gang. This series just keeps getting better and better. Dave is along full time on this adventure and Dickens and Christie are really warming up to him. They even assist him on the case, even though Dave can’t hear them. I love how he’s getting really in-tune with what they’re thinking. Dave is a wonderful supportive addition to the group and it’s so nice to hear his perspective on what’s going on. Great group dynamics with some perfect newcomers joining our regulars. And even though Gemma didn’t make this trip, there was no lack of police involvement from new character, Felicity. DI Jake also shows up to lend a hand. Great mystery with plenty of misdirection and a very surprising wrap-up. Hoping to see some of the new characters show up in Cotswolds in future stories. Always a pleasant experience reading this series and really looking forward to the next story.
August 23, 2022
OMG - what a thrill!🤩
Kathy Manos Penn has done it again - this book is such a great read. You get it all - mystery, murder, clues to evaluate, surprising arrests, hilarious comments, drama and the warm and supporting relationship between all the main characters!🤩
This is book 7 in the Dickens and Christie Mystery series and as an avid reader I find that these books are getting better and better by the book.😃
This time Leta Parker and her wonderful sidekicks, Dickens and Christie, are travelling to Torquay to a conference for crime-loving readers. Bringing her boyfriend and the rest of The Little Old Ladies’ Detective Agency they are ready for some great days together at the crime festival. But then a murder happens, accusations hit a bit too close to home and on top of that a fiery redhead has her claws all over the men in the group - how will Leta find her way and deduce who the culprit is??
I highly recommend this series! On this 7th book I was so lucky to get this book as an ARC reader from the author and this is my honest review given voluntarily.😃
Kathy Manos Penn has done it again - this book is such a great read. You get it all - mystery, murder, clues to evaluate, surprising arrests, hilarious comments, drama and the warm and supporting relationship between all the main characters!🤩
This is book 7 in the Dickens and Christie Mystery series and as an avid reader I find that these books are getting better and better by the book.😃
This time Leta Parker and her wonderful sidekicks, Dickens and Christie, are travelling to Torquay to a conference for crime-loving readers. Bringing her boyfriend and the rest of The Little Old Ladies’ Detective Agency they are ready for some great days together at the crime festival. But then a murder happens, accusations hit a bit too close to home and on top of that a fiery redhead has her claws all over the men in the group - how will Leta find her way and deduce who the culprit is??
I highly recommend this series! On this 7th book I was so lucky to get this book as an ARC reader from the author and this is my honest review given voluntarily.😃
Want to read
April 5, 2022Book 7 is currently with my Beta readers, and I'm pleased to report that those who have finished reading it have loved it. Phew! I'm still on target for the September 27 release date, and I hope you add it to your TBR list. (Of course, it's marked as READ on my shelf because I've read it over and over!)
Merged review:
I hope you're looking forward to Book 7 in the Dickens & Christie mystery series. The manuscript will soon go to my editor, and I'm still on target for a September release. Do you like Golden Age mysteries? This modern-day mystery takes place at the Poison Pens Literary Festival in Torquay and features topics like Agatha & Archaeology, A Taste of Murder, and more. Researching Golden Age authors and the sights in Torquay was tremendous fun!!
Merged review:
I hope you're looking forward to Book 7 in the Dickens & Christie mystery series. The manuscript will soon go to my editor, and I'm still on target for a September release. Do you like Golden Age mysteries? This modern-day mystery takes place at the Poison Pens Literary Festival in Torquay and features topics like Agatha & Archaeology, A Taste of Murder, and more. Researching Golden Age authors and the sights in Torquay was tremendous fun!!
December 10, 2022
Book 7 of the Dickens & Christie series is just as good as the others and the returning characters are just as endearing. The new characters who were introduced kept me guessing which one may not make it through to the end, but one of the MAIN characters was on the hit list, too, and I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough.
Of course, Dickens and Christie always have great problem solving skills, if only everyone could hear them.
I loved the Agatha vs. Sayers controversy, too. (I think Dame Agatha would be quite proud of Dickens & Christie and LOLs)
Of course, Dickens and Christie always have great problem solving skills, if only everyone could hear them.
I loved the Agatha vs. Sayers controversy, too. (I think Dame Agatha would be quite proud of Dickens & Christie and LOLs)
August 25, 2022
A whopper of a story. All of our favorite characters, especially Leta, Christie, and Dickens, come together to craft a perfect "who dun it" as Ms. Penn does time after time. Surprises galore and a stunning result. Grab a copy and enjoy this entertain story that will keep you guessing from beginning to end. Highly Recommended.
August 21, 2022
I am sad to finish another fascinating book in this series featuring characters who are written so realistically and relationships that are tested and yet survive in addition to the wonderful animals who speak their minds literally - at least to the MC.
This novel, perhaps even more than the previous ones in the series, explores how evil can twist someone into a tormenter and a murderer who believes that to “even the score” justifies any action.
Although it was my pleasure to receive this ARC from the author, it was completely my choice to share my honest review.
This novel, perhaps even more than the previous ones in the series, explores how evil can twist someone into a tormenter and a murderer who believes that to “even the score” justifies any action.
Although it was my pleasure to receive this ARC from the author, it was completely my choice to share my honest review.
September 13, 2022
What a great British mystery! Leta and the rest of the Little Old Ladies' Detective Agency are attending the Poisoned Pens Literary Festival along with Leta's pets, Dickens and Christie. Instead of spending their time in discussions over the great classic mystery writers, by the second night they are involved in a real live murder investigation. Stakes are high as one of their own is under suspicion for the murder! Filled with some very colorful characters and talking pets, the author has done a wonderful job of putting the readers right into the middle of things as they try to find out who really dun- it!
September 18, 2022
Excellent mystery books!
I liked the well told story and the many references to other mystery writers and books! Hard to put down.
I liked the well told story and the many references to other mystery writers and books! Hard to put down.
September 18, 2022
Classic English Mystery Wriers
I would recommend this book to any and fans of classic British murder mystery!
This is an amazing tale. A must read.
I would recommend this book to any and fans of classic British murder mystery!
This is an amazing tale. A must read.
September 1, 2022
Kathy Manos Penn takes Dickens and Christie fans on yet another intriguing adventure in the seventh book of the Dickens and Christie mystery series.
Leta Parker and the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency are off on another adventure, this time to the village of Torquay in the Cotswolds. Dave, Dickens and Christie go along for the ride, as the LOL’s stumble onto a murder at the Literary festival, featuring Golden Age authors they are attending. While there we revisit with old friends and make some new ones along the way, while the LOL’s along with Dave, Dickens, and Christie investigate the murder,
Cozy mystery fans alike will be glued to their seats till the end as they go along for the ride with this page turner. I loved every minute of the twists and turns of the book, once again being stumped but pleasantly surprised by the ending. At one point Kathy Manos Penn had me in disbelief as a much loved character is accused of the murder. This book is intriguing and hard to put down, I should know I could not put it down. The book is definitely perfect for lover’s of cozy mysteries as well as anyone who gets a kick out of, dare I say late middle aged ladies who have a penchant for getting into trouble. I definitely give this book a 5 star rating. This is my own expressed opinion and no one else’s.
Leta Parker and the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency are off on another adventure, this time to the village of Torquay in the Cotswolds. Dave, Dickens and Christie go along for the ride, as the LOL’s stumble onto a murder at the Literary festival, featuring Golden Age authors they are attending. While there we revisit with old friends and make some new ones along the way, while the LOL’s along with Dave, Dickens, and Christie investigate the murder,
Cozy mystery fans alike will be glued to their seats till the end as they go along for the ride with this page turner. I loved every minute of the twists and turns of the book, once again being stumped but pleasantly surprised by the ending. At one point Kathy Manos Penn had me in disbelief as a much loved character is accused of the murder. This book is intriguing and hard to put down, I should know I could not put it down. The book is definitely perfect for lover’s of cozy mysteries as well as anyone who gets a kick out of, dare I say late middle aged ladies who have a penchant for getting into trouble. I definitely give this book a 5 star rating. This is my own expressed opinion and no one else’s.
September 5, 2022
I’m a sucker for books with sweet dogs in them, and this series has a lovely mini Great Pyrenees. He’s the Dickens in the series, and Christie is a black cat, both of which are owned by Leta Parker. She is a founding member of the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency, or LOLs, for short. Don’t be fooled though. This group of ladies may be senior in age, but are quick-witted and feisty. This installment has a picturesque setting in England, at a mystery convention focusing on Agatha Christie. The ladies have to summon all their Christie-like powers when the organizer of the event turns up dead.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with realistic characters and sweet pets, I would strongly recommend this series.
If you enjoy cozy mysteries with realistic characters and sweet pets, I would strongly recommend this series.
August 31, 2022
Leta and her friends have gone to a literary festival featuring the Queens of Crime such as Agatha Christie. But the festival soon turns deadly and Leta winds up being a suspect. Can the Little Old Ladies find the real killer?
I've really enjoyed this series, and this book is no exception. The book was well-written with well-rounded characters, and a well-thought-out plot. It'll keep you on the edge of your seat and there are several nail-biting scenes. I always enjoy reading about Leta and the gang and was drawn into this engaging story from the beginning and kept hooked until the end. The mystery will keep you on your toes and guessing throughout. I'm looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend both book and series, which I believe is best read in order although the mystery in each book is self-contained and solved without cliffhangers.
I've really enjoyed this series, and this book is no exception. The book was well-written with well-rounded characters, and a well-thought-out plot. It'll keep you on the edge of your seat and there are several nail-biting scenes. I always enjoy reading about Leta and the gang and was drawn into this engaging story from the beginning and kept hooked until the end. The mystery will keep you on your toes and guessing throughout. I'm looking forward to the next book. I highly recommend both book and series, which I believe is best read in order although the mystery in each book is self-contained and solved without cliffhangers.
August 31, 2022
Pets, Pens and Murder takes Leta and Dickens and Christie to a literary festival where once again there’s a murder.
Leta and her friends, the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency, who are also attending the festival, try to help a police detective solve the murder but he’s not too thrilled by the prospect. So they have to sneak around hotel during the festival events behind his back which makes for interesting reading. You’ll have to keep reading to find out who the murderer is and who solves the case but it’s well worth your time!
Leta and her friends, the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency, who are also attending the festival, try to help a police detective solve the murder but he’s not too thrilled by the prospect. So they have to sneak around hotel during the festival events behind his back which makes for interesting reading. You’ll have to keep reading to find out who the murderer is and who solves the case but it’s well worth your time!
August 31, 2022
Another wonderful entry to this engaging series. Dickens the Dog and Christie the Cat as always have something to say about the goings on of the humans. I’ll admit that they are my favorites. The are enjoying a literary festival when things start going a bit sideways.
So,come along for a little Agatha, a little romance and of course a little murder.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are mine alone.
So,come along for a little Agatha, a little romance and of course a little murder.
I received an ARC copy of this book. All opinions are mine alone.
October 1, 2022
Another enjoyable cozy. I'm looking forward to the next one.
October 18, 2022
This is part of a series , you can read it alone but be warned, once you read it you will want to read more. The LOL, Little Old Ladies are determined to stick, errrr,offer their knowledge to solve , errrr, help the police with the investigation. Because as we all know, people love to talk to LoL's and also tend to talk openly around them. After all , what could LoL's do? ....read on to find out...
June 11, 2024
Leta is going to a Murder Mystery Gala hosted by Emily, there are speakers talking about Author Agatha Christie and other Authors. Emily is murdered and Leta is accused. Leta and Dave her boyfriend have to solve the murder. In the mean time Scarlet is hanging on her boyfriend Dave and also her friend Wendy's boyfriend also. I enjoyed the book it kept me guessing till the end.
October 8, 2022
Kathy is one of my favorite authors. I am never disappointed after spending time with the Little Old Ladies Detective Agency and this book is no exception!
January 7, 2023
Love this series
February 27, 2025
I didn't like this one as much as the earlier ones. Leta did some really stupid things, and she is normally not so dumb.
August 27, 2022
This is book six by this author. The characters still stand the test of time and are enjoyable to follow in the current adventure.
Each book is a stand-alone so you don’t have to read any of the prior books to enjoy the characters. I however would suggest read the first book “Bells, tails and murder” before this one or shortly after. There are several references to the plot and character development the first book provides. If you don’t read the first book, you won’t be lost but it just gives the reader a gleam of some information and helps fill in some gaps that arise.
Wendy and Leta decide to attend the Poison Pen Literary festival in Torquay. It is close to a week-long festival with lots of panels to enjoy at the event. They meet Ellie and Belle there to complete the group that has been dubbed “The Little old ladies detective agency” or LOL for short. They are a group of ladies that vary in ages and get along great together. If a mystery occurs, they have a habit of being in the thick of things and give some input that helps solve it.
They also meet up with a new friend from the prior adventure that can be read in “Castles, catnip and murder”.
There are several sub plots in this offering. We have Wendy meeting up with an old flame from several years ago. We have Leta and Dave working on their new relationship as a couple. The main plot of course in this one is a murder.
I enjoy this series as it is an English cozy with English characters and American implants. I would love to live in the area where these ladies reside. I love watching the process of deductions that the LOL’s show to solve the mystery presented.
The first few chapters give the reader the background of the adventure along with the interaction with the main characters. Of course you don’t have to wait too long before the mystery and main plot ensues. I always enjoy the adventure and am not one of those that over analyze it so it is always a fun romp.
I started reading the books by this author in late 2020 and always am ready to go to the world she has provided. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
Each book is a stand-alone so you don’t have to read any of the prior books to enjoy the characters. I however would suggest read the first book “Bells, tails and murder” before this one or shortly after. There are several references to the plot and character development the first book provides. If you don’t read the first book, you won’t be lost but it just gives the reader a gleam of some information and helps fill in some gaps that arise.
Wendy and Leta decide to attend the Poison Pen Literary festival in Torquay. It is close to a week-long festival with lots of panels to enjoy at the event. They meet Ellie and Belle there to complete the group that has been dubbed “The Little old ladies detective agency” or LOL for short. They are a group of ladies that vary in ages and get along great together. If a mystery occurs, they have a habit of being in the thick of things and give some input that helps solve it.
They also meet up with a new friend from the prior adventure that can be read in “Castles, catnip and murder”.
There are several sub plots in this offering. We have Wendy meeting up with an old flame from several years ago. We have Leta and Dave working on their new relationship as a couple. The main plot of course in this one is a murder.
I enjoy this series as it is an English cozy with English characters and American implants. I would love to live in the area where these ladies reside. I love watching the process of deductions that the LOL’s show to solve the mystery presented.
The first few chapters give the reader the background of the adventure along with the interaction with the main characters. Of course you don’t have to wait too long before the mystery and main plot ensues. I always enjoy the adventure and am not one of those that over analyze it so it is always a fun romp.
I started reading the books by this author in late 2020 and always am ready to go to the world she has provided. I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.
August 29, 2022
The newest book in the wonderfully entertaining Dickens and Christie series features retired American and current Cotswold resident, Leta Petkas Parker and her British friends taking a trip to the Poison Pens Literary Festival on the English Riveria. She will also be reuniting with Dave, her long distance boyfriend, who has recently announced his intention to leave his New York City home and relocate to the Cotswolds. I am excited to see future developments in this relationship. Everyone is anticipating a fun and informative conference, but the arrival of Scarlet Callahan, a flirtatious redhead with designs on any interesting mature male including Dave, hints at trouble. This proves to be prophetic, as the festival’s organizer suddenly dies under baffling circumstances; and Leta, Dave and the LOL (Little Old Ladies) find themselves once again in the middle of an investigation. Luckily, Leta’s pets, Dickens and Christie, have accompanied her and can provide their unique perspective for assistance. I wonder if Dave will ever uncover their secret ability to communicate with his girlfriend.
I am a huge fan of this series and Kathy Manos Penn never fails to give me hours of reading pleasure. Kathy’s books can be counted on for clever, diverse characters, tantalizing mysteries with puzzling clues, beautiful locales and historical references to renown British authors. I always learn something new. The cast list and books noted in the story are among my favorite helpful references. This author gives me everything I want and more, and I can’t wait for the next series entry.
I am a huge fan of this series and Kathy Manos Penn never fails to give me hours of reading pleasure. Kathy’s books can be counted on for clever, diverse characters, tantalizing mysteries with puzzling clues, beautiful locales and historical references to renown British authors. I always learn something new. The cast list and books noted in the story are among my favorite helpful references. This author gives me everything I want and more, and I can’t wait for the next series entry.
September 11, 2022
Was waiting for this one.
I have read the whole series and enjoyed them all, especially Dickens and Christi. I also enjoyed this one except I felt like Leta was just a bit over the top histrionic when she was merely questioned by the police after the second murder. I thought she needed someone to tell her to "snap out of it". She's supposed to be a seasoned "detective" and then she goes all weepy Swooning Southern Belle at the first sign of adversity; Dave needed to practically carry her to their room. She pretty much proved to him right then that she needs someone to take care of her when the going gets too tough for her. And there was an abundance of speculation about the murders, but they never really came up with the right suspect for the right reason. I figured that out way before they did but that's alright - knowing who the killer is doesn't usually ruin the fun I have reading a good mystery. Other than the histrionics, I enjoyed it and I'll read the next one when it comes out, too.
I have read the whole series and enjoyed them all, especially Dickens and Christi. I also enjoyed this one except I felt like Leta was just a bit over the top histrionic when she was merely questioned by the police after the second murder. I thought she needed someone to tell her to "snap out of it". She's supposed to be a seasoned "detective" and then she goes all weepy Swooning Southern Belle at the first sign of adversity; Dave needed to practically carry her to their room. She pretty much proved to him right then that she needs someone to take care of her when the going gets too tough for her. And there was an abundance of speculation about the murders, but they never really came up with the right suspect for the right reason. I figured that out way before they did but that's alright - knowing who the killer is doesn't usually ruin the fun I have reading a good mystery. Other than the histrionics, I enjoyed it and I'll read the next one when it comes out, too.
August 24, 2022
Leta and the LOLs (plus one old codger,) are excited to attend a boo festival featuring works by and about Agatha Christie. Even Christie the cat and Dickens the dog are invited.
Excitement turns to green-eyed jealousy when another participant show too much attention to not only Leta's beau but also an old friend of Wendy's. Later in the book this ends up looking like motive.
I admit it took me a bit to figure out who are the good guys and who is a potential killer.
KMP kept me guessing.
The plot flows well as tensions rise and fall. Will Leta's nosiness put her in danger or possibly something else? Without Gemma and Jake to assist or keep the LOLs in the loop, how will they solve this case without ending up behind bars?
Dickens and Christie add their delightful contributions and play a role in saving the day.
Excitement turns to green-eyed jealousy when another participant show too much attention to not only Leta's beau but also an old friend of Wendy's. Later in the book this ends up looking like motive.
I admit it took me a bit to figure out who are the good guys and who is a potential killer.
KMP kept me guessing.
The plot flows well as tensions rise and fall. Will Leta's nosiness put her in danger or possibly something else? Without Gemma and Jake to assist or keep the LOLs in the loop, how will they solve this case without ending up behind bars?
Dickens and Christie add their delightful contributions and play a role in saving the day.
June 5, 2024
“I feel like I’ve lived through the creepiest kind of horror movie.”
Wow! I’ve never seen a main character put into such jeopardy and with a totally unexpected hero. “How do I love thee…”
The villain of the book was also a surprise given all the successful plot misdirections and red herrings. Is revenge really best served cold?
I only have one complaint which is when items are moved without informing the police. It leads to valuable information for our sleuths but does it break the code of such great mystery writers as Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, and others?
This is a very minor point and did not detract from an otherwise superb story. I highly recommend this book and series to all who enjoy classic cozy mysteries.
It was great fun for Kate Ellis to make a cameo appearance. I’ll read one of her books next knowing there are more Dickens and Christie mysteries in my TBR pile.
Wow! I’ve never seen a main character put into such jeopardy and with a totally unexpected hero. “How do I love thee…”
The villain of the book was also a surprise given all the successful plot misdirections and red herrings. Is revenge really best served cold?
I only have one complaint which is when items are moved without informing the police. It leads to valuable information for our sleuths but does it break the code of such great mystery writers as Agatha Christie, Dorothy Sayers, and others?
This is a very minor point and did not detract from an otherwise superb story. I highly recommend this book and series to all who enjoy classic cozy mysteries.
It was great fun for Kate Ellis to make a cameo appearance. I’ll read one of her books next knowing there are more Dickens and Christie mysteries in my TBR pile.
March 22, 2025
Honestly, the biggest reason I deducted a star for this one is it was clear relatively early who the culprit was and their motivation. The only surprise is the specific motivation for killing one (I assumed it would be something else based on a lack of information that wasn't given until after the fact). The rest was just too pat.
I also wasn't a fan of the stretch needed to include Christie in this adventure. The reasoning was forced at best and made no real sense for her inclusion other than the author needed her to be there to keep the readers who love her happy despite it taking place at a location away from Leta's home. I appreciate the author introducing new locations, but not the lame efforts to include one of the main characters. Even taking her on the yoga retreat made more sense.
I also wasn't a fan of the stretch needed to include Christie in this adventure. The reasoning was forced at best and made no real sense for her inclusion other than the author needed her to be there to keep the readers who love her happy despite it taking place at a location away from Leta's home. I appreciate the author introducing new locations, but not the lame efforts to include one of the main characters. Even taking her on the yoga retreat made more sense.
September 27, 2022
Another great murder mystery in the Dickens and Christie series (number7) by Cathy Manos Penn! Leta is excited to have Dave, from America, finally come to England to be with her. Together, along with the LOL’s (Little Old Ladies Detective Agency) and her pets Christie the cat and Dickens the dog, they attend the literary crime festival in Torquay. A murder on the second night sets the detectives to work investigating, and Leta wondering why Scarlett seems obsessed by Dave and Rhys! A delightful read with great characters, and the added fun of Christie and Dickens comments! I received a free copy of this book and write this review voluntarily.
November 11, 2023
Back with Leta, Dickens, and Christie, this time in Torquay at a conference for lovers of golden age crime and detectives.
When the organiser of the conference is found dead, a member of the LOL's is arrested; its up to Leta and the rest of them to clear their name. However, things go from bad to worse, and the Dowager Countess of Stow, aka Ellie, has to use her influence.
I loved reading this book. The whole series is brilliant, and I'm binge reading them.
The books are all standalone stories, but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and wider storyline.
When the organiser of the conference is found dead, a member of the LOL's is arrested; its up to Leta and the rest of them to clear their name. However, things go from bad to worse, and the Dowager Countess of Stow, aka Ellie, has to use her influence.
I loved reading this book. The whole series is brilliant, and I'm binge reading them.
The books are all standalone stories, but they are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and wider storyline.
February 9, 2023
Writers convention
The group goes to the GALA a writers convention. Dave arrives in town with writer Rye and would be writer Scarlet who is hanging all over Dave. They meet Emily who is in charge of the GALA. Dickens and Christie are on the trip also with Leta, Wendy, Belle and Ellie who drove her Bentley to the affair. A short time later Emily is found dead by Leta who thinks she was strangled. They have a new Detective to deal with, Felicity, they try to stay out of the investigation but of course can't. Good story with lots of twists and suspects, interesting characters.
The group goes to the GALA a writers convention. Dave arrives in town with writer Rye and would be writer Scarlet who is hanging all over Dave. They meet Emily who is in charge of the GALA. Dickens and Christie are on the trip also with Leta, Wendy, Belle and Ellie who drove her Bentley to the affair. A short time later Emily is found dead by Leta who thinks she was strangled. They have a new Detective to deal with, Felicity, they try to stay out of the investigation but of course can't. Good story with lots of twists and suspects, interesting characters.
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