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The Country Club Murders #5
Watching the Detectives
Ellison Russell wanted a decorator, not a corpse. Too bad she finds Mrs. White in the study killed with a revolver. Things go from bad to worse when she finds Mr. White in the dining room killed with a candlestick.
With so many bodies, is it any wonder Detective Anarchy Jones’ new partner considers Ellison a suspect?
With the country club gossips talking a mile a minute, an unexpected cocktail party, a visit from Aunt Sis, and a romantic decision, Ellison hardly has time to think about murder. Unfortunately, the killer has plenty of time to think about her.
With so many bodies, is it any wonder Detective Anarchy Jones’ new partner considers Ellison a suspect?
With the country club gossips talking a mile a minute, an unexpected cocktail party, a visit from Aunt Sis, and a romantic decision, Ellison hardly has time to think about murder. Unfortunately, the killer has plenty of time to think about her.
253 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 23, 2017
537 people are currently reading
1633 people want to read
About the author
Julie Mulhern
41 books1,632 followersJulie Mulhern is the USA Today bestselling author of The Country Club Murders and the Poppy Fields Adventures.
She is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean--and she's got an active imagination. Truth is--she's an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.
She is a Kansas City native who grew up on a steady diet of Agatha Christie. She spends her spare time whipping up gourmet meals for her family, working out at the gym and finding new ways to keep her house spotlessly clean--and she's got an active imagination. Truth is--she's an expert at calling for take-out, she grumbles about walking the dog and the dust bunnies under the bed have grown into dust lions.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
June 16, 2018
A cozy mystery that is a funny and a superb read yet it deals with a major social problem. The first portion had me laughing at the antics. This is the fifth book in the series and I have been fortunate to read all of them. The series is set in the 1970's and features members of the Country Club's set. Details of the area are perfect. Telephone on the wall, going next door to call out, the comments on Mr. Coffee are fabulous. I still remember my first one and I am not a coffee drinker. While each book can be read as a standalone, reading in order will add to your enjoyment.
Ellison Russell is a widow and her teenage daughter is Grace. She has a dog, Max. Her caregiver is Aggie. Her Mother wants everything to be proper. Much to her Mother's dismay, Ellison keeps finding dead people who have been murdered. She has selected Hunter Tafft for Ellison next husband while Allison is developing a crush on the lead homicide detective, Anarchy.
In this book, Ellison leaves her decorator, Khaki White alone in her home to pick up Aggie. She is gone 20 minutes and finds Khaki dead in her study. Anarchy has a new partner, Detective Peters who a law abiding officer. He feels everything is black and white. At this point, the tale has enough twists to keep you reading. I didn't put down until finished it. You will learn about Society's feeling about domestic abuse at the time. I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Henery Press through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
Ellison Russell is a widow and her teenage daughter is Grace. She has a dog, Max. Her caregiver is Aggie. Her Mother wants everything to be proper. Much to her Mother's dismay, Ellison keeps finding dead people who have been murdered. She has selected Hunter Tafft for Ellison next husband while Allison is developing a crush on the lead homicide detective, Anarchy.
In this book, Ellison leaves her decorator, Khaki White alone in her home to pick up Aggie. She is gone 20 minutes and finds Khaki dead in her study. Anarchy has a new partner, Detective Peters who a law abiding officer. He feels everything is black and white. At this point, the tale has enough twists to keep you reading. I didn't put down until finished it. You will learn about Society's feeling about domestic abuse at the time. I highly recommend this book and series.
Disclosure: I received a free copy from Henery Press through NetGalley for an honest review. I would like to thank them for this opportunity to read and review the book. The opinions expressed are my own.
September 9, 2021
I think it is going to be really difficult for Ellison Russell to find a decorator. The one she attempted to hire in the previous book was selling stolen artifacts. Her choice in Book 5 gets murdered in the den that was to be redone. This is going to be a crazy week. Mr. Coffee is going to get a workout. Yes, that esteemed appliance is still Ellison's leading man. Changes are ahead in the Hunter/Anarchy love triangle, Grace is growing up, and there is a mystery to be solved. The underlying theme is spousal abuse. A hero of mine takes a severe beating in this novel without being given the chance to speak a word. I am quite certain that if our heroine and the vilified cultural icon were to have a conversation, they might realize they have more in common than they think.
April 15, 2017
Author Julie Mulhern’s eagerly anticipated fifth novel in the 1970s series featuring Ellison Russell — a widowed artist and a member of Kansas City’s WASP elite —proved literally irresistible. I simply had to devour it in one sitting!
Ellison literally can’t leave her house for 20 minutes without someone getting murdered. When she leaves interior decorator Khaki White alone in her house, taking measurements to redo the study, on her return, Ellison’s finds Khaki shot dead. Who would want to kill Khaki? The sultry Detective Anarchy Jones’ gruff, disagreeable new partner likes Ellison for the murder, although she’s soon cleared. But Ellison’s in the thick of it, picking up clues amongst her well-heeled family and friends. And the book’s message is fabulous, although I won’t spoil the novel’s mystery by revealing it here. Highly, highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Henery Press in exchange for an honest review.
Ellison literally can’t leave her house for 20 minutes without someone getting murdered. When she leaves interior decorator Khaki White alone in her house, taking measurements to redo the study, on her return, Ellison’s finds Khaki shot dead. Who would want to kill Khaki? The sultry Detective Anarchy Jones’ gruff, disagreeable new partner likes Ellison for the murder, although she’s soon cleared. But Ellison’s in the thick of it, picking up clues amongst her well-heeled family and friends. And the book’s message is fabulous, although I won’t spoil the novel’s mystery by revealing it here. Highly, highly, highly recommended.
In the interest of full disclosure, I received this book from NetGalley and Henery Press in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2017
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Ellison Russell really needs to stop finding dead bodies. This story starts out like a game of Clue – Mrs. White in the study killed with a revolver – Mr. White in the dining room killed with a candlestick. All these bodies are driving her mother over the edge. Her Aunt Sis coming to visit doesn’t help matters. Detective Anarchy Jones knows Ellison didn’t kill anyone but his new partner isn’t so sure. With the ceiling literally crashing down around her she has no time to prove otherwise but the killer does have her in his sights.
Julie Mulhern takes us back to the 70’s, no cell phones, big hair, cocktail parties and no Starbucks on every corner. Ellison and her romance with Mr. Coffee always brings a smile to my face. The story starts out with Ellison simple wanting to redecorate her study. Hunter sets he up with an appointment with ex and in less than an hour her world is turned inside out. Ellison is a strong character, a widowed mom trying to raise a teenager on her own, a successful artist, trying to find her way in her family and in society. Her mother, Frances, demands perfection and Ellison always seems to fall short in her eyes. Her mother believes she needs a man in her life and while she already has two men interested she just isn’t ready for a serious relationship yet…but things are heating up and Frances may not be happy with her daughter’s choice.
This is a fast paced story and it is full of absolutely hilarious moments. It does take a very serious twist at the end and addresses an important issue not talked about much in the 1970’s. It is still a hot issue today but it handled much more openly.
Ms. Mulhern never disappoints. These characters are believable and the dialogue is crisp. She wraps them lively mystery that is beyond entertaining and she balances the drama with humor perfectly.
I can’t believe how fast I read this book and was not ready to leave Ellison, her family and friends when I reached the final page. I hope the author doesn’t keep us waiting too long for the next episode. Write fast Julie!!
For maximum enjoyment read this series from the start.
Ellison Russell really needs to stop finding dead bodies. This story starts out like a game of Clue – Mrs. White in the study killed with a revolver – Mr. White in the dining room killed with a candlestick. All these bodies are driving her mother over the edge. Her Aunt Sis coming to visit doesn’t help matters. Detective Anarchy Jones knows Ellison didn’t kill anyone but his new partner isn’t so sure. With the ceiling literally crashing down around her she has no time to prove otherwise but the killer does have her in his sights.
Julie Mulhern takes us back to the 70’s, no cell phones, big hair, cocktail parties and no Starbucks on every corner. Ellison and her romance with Mr. Coffee always brings a smile to my face. The story starts out with Ellison simple wanting to redecorate her study. Hunter sets he up with an appointment with ex and in less than an hour her world is turned inside out. Ellison is a strong character, a widowed mom trying to raise a teenager on her own, a successful artist, trying to find her way in her family and in society. Her mother, Frances, demands perfection and Ellison always seems to fall short in her eyes. Her mother believes she needs a man in her life and while she already has two men interested she just isn’t ready for a serious relationship yet…but things are heating up and Frances may not be happy with her daughter’s choice.
This is a fast paced story and it is full of absolutely hilarious moments. It does take a very serious twist at the end and addresses an important issue not talked about much in the 1970’s. It is still a hot issue today but it handled much more openly.
Ms. Mulhern never disappoints. These characters are believable and the dialogue is crisp. She wraps them lively mystery that is beyond entertaining and she balances the drama with humor perfectly.
I can’t believe how fast I read this book and was not ready to leave Ellison, her family and friends when I reached the final page. I hope the author doesn’t keep us waiting too long for the next episode. Write fast Julie!!
For maximum enjoyment read this series from the start.
March 15, 2018
Book received from NetGalley.
I loved this book, while the mystery was great and it took me almost to the end to figure out whodunnit, those weren't the reasons for my high rating of the book. Part of it was due to nostalgia, the books are set in the 1970's and it brought back quite a few things of my childhood, a big plus in my book. The other reason was the fact one of the subplots dealt with an extremely tough topic, made even worse by the time the book was set in. The 1970's was an era where women just took it when their husband or boyfriend hit them, it was almost a joke about women hiding their black eyes behind the huge sunglasses of the day. Unlike many, the woman who was abused in this book got out, and her husband's family stood behind her, not their relative when she finally broke her silence after ending up in the hospital. So kudos to Julie Mulhern, for dealing with this topic and maybe this will help someone now break the silence and get out.
I loved this book, while the mystery was great and it took me almost to the end to figure out whodunnit, those weren't the reasons for my high rating of the book. Part of it was due to nostalgia, the books are set in the 1970's and it brought back quite a few things of my childhood, a big plus in my book. The other reason was the fact one of the subplots dealt with an extremely tough topic, made even worse by the time the book was set in. The 1970's was an era where women just took it when their husband or boyfriend hit them, it was almost a joke about women hiding their black eyes behind the huge sunglasses of the day. Unlike many, the woman who was abused in this book got out, and her husband's family stood behind her, not their relative when she finally broke her silence after ending up in the hospital. So kudos to Julie Mulhern, for dealing with this topic and maybe this will help someone now break the silence and get out.
May 21, 2017
I approached this book with some trepidation. There were five books planned for this series – and this was number five. Would Ellison finally decide between the “devastatingly handsome, terminally charming, thrice divorced” Hunter Tafft, and the gorgeous policeman, Anarchy Jones, with eyes the colour of perfectly brewed coffee”. And could I forgive her if she chose Hunter Tafft? Of course, these books are so much more than just a romance. There is the wonderful social milieu of the Country Club with its iron clad rules on deportment, ruled over by force of nature, Frances Walford (“Attila the Hun had a strong personality. Mother was a mile-wide tornado with hundred-fifty-mile-per-hour winds”), and also the uncanny attraction that Ellison has for dead bodies.
The first dead body of this book appears a mere four days after the events of the last book. Four days! I feel I have to agree with Frances – “Ellison, this simply must stop”. However, she had little choice this time, as the corpse (in)conveniently died in Ellison’s house: “Mrs. White in the study with a revolver.” I suspect that the whole book was written so that line could be used. Later we got “Mr. White in the dining room with a candlestick. My life was turning into a sinister board game”.
Not only Frances, but the neighbours are also getting concerned, though Ellison has little sympathy for their feelings: “I didn’t complain when she donned her witch outfit and rode her broomstick. She shouldn’t complain when a body showed up at my house”. Her daughter, Grace, however remains remarkably unbothered by all this fuss – another day another body. She is either an unusually well-adjusted, mature teen – or a psychological meltdown biding its time. Likewise, lovesick Hunter Tafft and Anarchy Jones do not bat an eyelid. Anarchy now has a new partner, Detective Peters. He is not in love with Ellison, so has no hesitation in adding her to the rather limited list of suspects.
As with the first book, the seedy underbelly of the Country Club is exposed. The perfect, happy marriages on show are hiding some nasty secrets. It is no wonder that Ellison does not see a new husband as an attractive proposition. Her independence – particularly her financial independence – has been hard won, and is not to be carelessly laid aside: “A woman in an unhappy marriage didn’t think it was privilege to be dependent on her husband. That woman was trapped by economics. What kind of job could she get when her resume included raising children and having dinner on the table by six? That woman needed equal rights.” It is the rights of these unhappy women that come to be the focus of this tale.
As always, the sparkling wit of the author shines through. A few of my favourite lines were: “I smoothed my expression, less Marie Antoinette on her way to the guillotine, more Marie Antoinette on her way to eat cake”; “To the casual observer, he looked as if he might lose an intelligence battle with an orangutan”; the shocking “Mother was losing an argument, an occurrence as rare as Haley’s Comet. Unlike Haley’s Comet, Mother had the ability to change course”; and best of all “Many naugas had given their hydes for that chair”.
I really do hope there will be more Country Club murders. They have all been so well written and enjoyable, and surely there must be more of Ellison’s acquaintances dying to get into a new book.
Who does she choose – Hunter, Anarchy or neither. You will just have to read to find out.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
The first dead body of this book appears a mere four days after the events of the last book. Four days! I feel I have to agree with Frances – “Ellison, this simply must stop”. However, she had little choice this time, as the corpse (in)conveniently died in Ellison’s house: “Mrs. White in the study with a revolver.” I suspect that the whole book was written so that line could be used. Later we got “Mr. White in the dining room with a candlestick. My life was turning into a sinister board game”.
Not only Frances, but the neighbours are also getting concerned, though Ellison has little sympathy for their feelings: “I didn’t complain when she donned her witch outfit and rode her broomstick. She shouldn’t complain when a body showed up at my house”. Her daughter, Grace, however remains remarkably unbothered by all this fuss – another day another body. She is either an unusually well-adjusted, mature teen – or a psychological meltdown biding its time. Likewise, lovesick Hunter Tafft and Anarchy Jones do not bat an eyelid. Anarchy now has a new partner, Detective Peters. He is not in love with Ellison, so has no hesitation in adding her to the rather limited list of suspects.
As with the first book, the seedy underbelly of the Country Club is exposed. The perfect, happy marriages on show are hiding some nasty secrets. It is no wonder that Ellison does not see a new husband as an attractive proposition. Her independence – particularly her financial independence – has been hard won, and is not to be carelessly laid aside: “A woman in an unhappy marriage didn’t think it was privilege to be dependent on her husband. That woman was trapped by economics. What kind of job could she get when her resume included raising children and having dinner on the table by six? That woman needed equal rights.” It is the rights of these unhappy women that come to be the focus of this tale.
As always, the sparkling wit of the author shines through. A few of my favourite lines were: “I smoothed my expression, less Marie Antoinette on her way to the guillotine, more Marie Antoinette on her way to eat cake”; “To the casual observer, he looked as if he might lose an intelligence battle with an orangutan”; the shocking “Mother was losing an argument, an occurrence as rare as Haley’s Comet. Unlike Haley’s Comet, Mother had the ability to change course”; and best of all “Many naugas had given their hydes for that chair”.
I really do hope there will be more Country Club murders. They have all been so well written and enjoyable, and surely there must be more of Ellison’s acquaintances dying to get into a new book.
Who does she choose – Hunter, Anarchy or neither. You will just have to read to find out.
I received this copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
May 28, 2017
“’There’s been an incident…Mrs. White in the study with a revolver.”
Mulhern is on a roll. This is the fifth book in the Country Club Murders series, but I plunged in without having seen the first four, and it was still a treat. Thank you, thank you to Net Galley and Henery Press for the DRC, which I snagged free and in advance in exchange for this honest review. It is now available to everyone.
The story is set among the Caucasian upper middle class of the 1970s, and Mulhern renders the period—when this reviewer was a mere, blushing wisp of a girl—so well that I checked twice to see whether it was an older title being re-released.
Ellison Russell is our protagonist, and people keep dying at her domicile. It’s become a nuisance, and there’s a cop that thinks it’s too great a coincidence. Ellison’s in a jam, and her thirteen-year-old daughter Grace isn’t helping. She sulks when they are told they must leave the house for a few days because it’s a crime scene, exclaiming that people have died at their house before and they didn’t have to leave. It’s just not fair!
Ellison is a widow, and a merry one at that; she has a flirtation going with a local cop whose name is Anarchy—a guy who believes in rules-- but her main man is Mr. Coffee. He’s always there for her.
I moan when Ellison’s mother is introduced—yet one more overbearing mother, I thought, and authors always blame everything on mothers, just like everyone else does—but then I am surprised by where she takes it. I won’t say more lest I ruin it for you. But I will say this: every overused or overworked plot element is here for a reason, either to take it apart, or to make fun of it. Mulhern considers every word in this dandy novel carefully, and the result is splendid.
As the story unfolds there are other witty tidbits tucked in here and there, such as a character named Margaret Hamilton who is such a witch. But the frippery and snarky humor aren’t the whole package; while the mystery is a romp, serving up the snobbery of the petit bourgeoisie with a sharp skewer, this excellent novel is also a nicely turned feminist manifesto. While the mystery is a fine 4-star beach read, the author’s purpose is a strong one that’s delivered well. It is for this aspect that the fifth star is given.
Highly recommended for strong women and those that love them.
Mulhern is on a roll. This is the fifth book in the Country Club Murders series, but I plunged in without having seen the first four, and it was still a treat. Thank you, thank you to Net Galley and Henery Press for the DRC, which I snagged free and in advance in exchange for this honest review. It is now available to everyone.
The story is set among the Caucasian upper middle class of the 1970s, and Mulhern renders the period—when this reviewer was a mere, blushing wisp of a girl—so well that I checked twice to see whether it was an older title being re-released.
Ellison Russell is our protagonist, and people keep dying at her domicile. It’s become a nuisance, and there’s a cop that thinks it’s too great a coincidence. Ellison’s in a jam, and her thirteen-year-old daughter Grace isn’t helping. She sulks when they are told they must leave the house for a few days because it’s a crime scene, exclaiming that people have died at their house before and they didn’t have to leave. It’s just not fair!
Ellison is a widow, and a merry one at that; she has a flirtation going with a local cop whose name is Anarchy—a guy who believes in rules-- but her main man is Mr. Coffee. He’s always there for her.
I moan when Ellison’s mother is introduced—yet one more overbearing mother, I thought, and authors always blame everything on mothers, just like everyone else does—but then I am surprised by where she takes it. I won’t say more lest I ruin it for you. But I will say this: every overused or overworked plot element is here for a reason, either to take it apart, or to make fun of it. Mulhern considers every word in this dandy novel carefully, and the result is splendid.
As the story unfolds there are other witty tidbits tucked in here and there, such as a character named Margaret Hamilton who is such a witch. But the frippery and snarky humor aren’t the whole package; while the mystery is a romp, serving up the snobbery of the petit bourgeoisie with a sharp skewer, this excellent novel is also a nicely turned feminist manifesto. While the mystery is a fine 4-star beach read, the author’s purpose is a strong one that’s delivered well. It is for this aspect that the fifth star is given.
Highly recommended for strong women and those that love them.
October 30, 2023
This series is based in 1974 and tackles some serious topics. Domestic violence and women’s rights are front and center here. Ellison is shaking off old norms and expectations to live an independent lifestyle at a time and social setting where it’s frowned upon. She stands up for herself against her parents and love interests. A very engaging character.
July 24, 2017
I love The Country Club Murders books. I didn't want to finish reading this one because it's the last one and I wanted to stay in Kansas City with these characters. I have grown attached to the characters over the course of the series and found each book to be interesting and entertaining. I especially love Ellison's fierceness. I hope Julie Mulhern writes more books in this series. I will read every one.
July 24, 2017
Watching the Detectives is the fifth entry in Julie Mulhern’s Country Club Murders series, Set in Kansas City in 1974, in that bygone era before computers, the Internet, and cell phones changed our lives. Ellison Russell has developed a remarkable talent for discovering bodies, sometimes in her own house, while juggling her teenage daughter Grace, her overbearing mother, and two attractive men, Detective Anarchy Jones and attorney Hunter Tafft. This time around, Ellison discovers an interior decorator whose life is as much a mystery as her death, contributes to a luncheon without finding out who the guest speaker is, and delves into some dark domestic secrets. Excellent as always.
March 13, 2017
Another fabulous addition to a fabulous series.
July 26, 2018
The best yet. I can't recommend this enough.
April 14, 2017
Watching the Detectives is the fifth book in Julie Mulhern’s Country Club Murders series. Ms. Mulhern’s writing style is crisp and clear, the storyline is well developed, and the characters are entertaining, fun, and a little quirky. The setting for this series is the 1970s country club society in Kansas City, Missouri, and all the details are right on target from telephones that must be attached to a wall to work to the some of the carpets being shag to the description of clothes worn by the characters. The mystery is interesting and witty statements and humor are disbursed throughout the book. This book is steadily paced, with lots of twists and turns and enough suspects to keep the reader engaged. The sensitive subject of spousal abuse is addressed in this book. I highly recommend this series to readers who enjoy well-crafted cozy mysteries.
Ellison Russell is a widow, an artist, the mother of a teenager daughter, loves Mr. Coffee, and seems to attract murder victims. Ellison isn’t sure she’s ready for a relationship but has two handsome and caring men, Detective Anarchy Jones, and a lawyer, Hunter Tafft, interested in pursuing one with her. She recently fired her decorator and agreed to meet with Khaki White, a decorator who just happens to be Hunter’s ex-wife, and have her bid on turning her late husband’s office into a study. Aggie DeLucci, her housekeeper, calls with car trouble and Ellison leaves Khaki in her home while she picks up Aggie and their groceries. When they arrive at Ellison’s home, they discover Khaki has been murdered. When Detective Jones and his new partner show up, Detective Peters immediately focuses on Ellison as his prime suspect. Ellison’s socially proper mother, who can be difficult and demanding, is helping Cora, her cousin Thornton’s wife, chair a benefit luncheon and due to plumbing problems at her home offers Ellison’s home for the benefactor’s dinner. When another body shows up at the dinner, Detective Peters is even more convinced of Ellison’s involvement. Ellison thinks Khaki was involved in some shady activities and can’t resist asking questions and investigating on her own, placing herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
Ellison Russell is a widow, an artist, the mother of a teenager daughter, loves Mr. Coffee, and seems to attract murder victims. Ellison isn’t sure she’s ready for a relationship but has two handsome and caring men, Detective Anarchy Jones, and a lawyer, Hunter Tafft, interested in pursuing one with her. She recently fired her decorator and agreed to meet with Khaki White, a decorator who just happens to be Hunter’s ex-wife, and have her bid on turning her late husband’s office into a study. Aggie DeLucci, her housekeeper, calls with car trouble and Ellison leaves Khaki in her home while she picks up Aggie and their groceries. When they arrive at Ellison’s home, they discover Khaki has been murdered. When Detective Jones and his new partner show up, Detective Peters immediately focuses on Ellison as his prime suspect. Ellison’s socially proper mother, who can be difficult and demanding, is helping Cora, her cousin Thornton’s wife, chair a benefit luncheon and due to plumbing problems at her home offers Ellison’s home for the benefactor’s dinner. When another body shows up at the dinner, Detective Peters is even more convinced of Ellison’s involvement. Ellison thinks Khaki was involved in some shady activities and can’t resist asking questions and investigating on her own, placing herself in harm’s way.
I received an Advance Reader Copy of this book from NetGalley and voluntarily reviewed it.
May 5, 2018
I loved this book and the series. Ellison had a knack of finding dead bodies, often on her own property. This book is no exception. When she gets a call from Aggie, her housekeeper about her car breaking down, she heads off to the local shopping center to get her. She leaves her decorator in the house to continue coming up with ideas while she is gone. Well, you guessed it, when she gets back home less than half an hour later, she is dead in the den with a bullet in her head. Of course Ellison calls Anarchy, the handsome detective that she has a budding relationship and he shows up with his new partner. There is a lot going on in this story, with another body along the way and some women who also end up in the hospital.
The mystery kept me guessing until the end, which I always like. This book was not just a mystery. This series takes place in the 70s and at that time, police and medical practitioners felt that physical abuse between spouses was a personal matter and they did not intervene. This was an era where women just took it when their husband or boyfriend hit them, it was almost a joke about women hiding their black eyes behind the huge sunglasses of the day. Unlike many, the woman who was abused in this book got out, and her husband's family stood behind her, not her husband who was their relative. It was due to Ellison's persistence that she finally spoke up. So kudos to Julie Mulhern, for dealing with this topic and maybe this will help someone now break the silence and get out. The setting is also very nostalgic to those of us who grew up during that time so it adds another enjoyable dimension. I suppose you could read this book without reading the rest of the series, but who would want to. This is one of the best cozy series I have read.
The mystery kept me guessing until the end, which I always like. This book was not just a mystery. This series takes place in the 70s and at that time, police and medical practitioners felt that physical abuse between spouses was a personal matter and they did not intervene. This was an era where women just took it when their husband or boyfriend hit them, it was almost a joke about women hiding their black eyes behind the huge sunglasses of the day. Unlike many, the woman who was abused in this book got out, and her husband's family stood behind her, not her husband who was their relative. It was due to Ellison's persistence that she finally spoke up. So kudos to Julie Mulhern, for dealing with this topic and maybe this will help someone now break the silence and get out. The setting is also very nostalgic to those of us who grew up during that time so it adds another enjoyable dimension. I suppose you could read this book without reading the rest of the series, but who would want to. This is one of the best cozy series I have read.
May 24, 2017
Watching the Detectives is the fifth book is the Country Club Murders mystery series. Four whole days have gone by since the last body was found. And this Monday morning holds the promise of crisp early fall days. In fact, it starts off so well, until. . .
But then Khaki White arrives to give Ellison Russell a quote on redecorating her dark study. And then her housekeeper, Aggie, calls panicked that her car has died and she has perishable groceries, will Ellison please come get her. With deep loyalty to Aggie, Ellison hurries to get her leaving Khaki to her measurements.
When they return less than half an hour later, Ellison and Aggie find Mrs. White shot in the study. Thus begins the flurry of police, investigators, and detectives. Detective Anarchy Jones, Ellison's detective, now has a rumpled, grumpy partner, Detective Peters. And Detective Peters suspects everyone.
With no obvious motive, it seems impossible to figure out who committed this crime. But when more victims turn up, and one is severely beaten but still living, the pieces begin coming together.
Set in a time before women had many rights, could not buy a car or open a charge account without their husband's permission, and were still considered property by many men, this takes a poignant look at how far women have come in a little over forty years. Written with humor, strong female characters, and an ever evolving storyline, Julie Mulhern has done it again. I do recommend this book!
But then Khaki White arrives to give Ellison Russell a quote on redecorating her dark study. And then her housekeeper, Aggie, calls panicked that her car has died and she has perishable groceries, will Ellison please come get her. With deep loyalty to Aggie, Ellison hurries to get her leaving Khaki to her measurements.
When they return less than half an hour later, Ellison and Aggie find Mrs. White shot in the study. Thus begins the flurry of police, investigators, and detectives. Detective Anarchy Jones, Ellison's detective, now has a rumpled, grumpy partner, Detective Peters. And Detective Peters suspects everyone.
With no obvious motive, it seems impossible to figure out who committed this crime. But when more victims turn up, and one is severely beaten but still living, the pieces begin coming together.
Set in a time before women had many rights, could not buy a car or open a charge account without their husband's permission, and were still considered property by many men, this takes a poignant look at how far women have come in a little over forty years. Written with humor, strong female characters, and an ever evolving storyline, Julie Mulhern has done it again. I do recommend this book!
May 17, 2017
FANTASTIC!!
What is there NOT to love about this book?? I was hooked immediately and wanted to read it from cover to cover without pause, but unfortunately I had to take care of "real life issues." I kept sneaking back to read what was happening next in this compelling book about the life of Ellison Russell! Watching the Detectives is the 5th Book in The Country Club Murders and it is brilliantly written. Mulhern has captured the time and essence of the 70's and managed to tackle one of society's darkest secrets then as well as now. Her characters are vivid, the family dynamics are intense, her understanding of time and place are on point, and her riveting descriptions of crime scenes is remarkable! Poor Ellison cannot catch a break. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and NetGalley. This opinion is strictly my own and without influence.
What is there NOT to love about this book?? I was hooked immediately and wanted to read it from cover to cover without pause, but unfortunately I had to take care of "real life issues." I kept sneaking back to read what was happening next in this compelling book about the life of Ellison Russell! Watching the Detectives is the 5th Book in The Country Club Murders and it is brilliantly written. Mulhern has captured the time and essence of the 70's and managed to tackle one of society's darkest secrets then as well as now. Her characters are vivid, the family dynamics are intense, her understanding of time and place are on point, and her riveting descriptions of crime scenes is remarkable! Poor Ellison cannot catch a break. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and NetGalley. This opinion is strictly my own and without influence.
May 25, 2017
Take a trip back to the 1970s with Ellison and the gang in Watching the Detectives. The latest book in the Country Club Murders Mystery Series by Julie Mulhern.
This series has become one of those where I look forward to the next installment coming out.
If you want a book that has a 1970s Gilmore Girls feel to it and is full of humor, romance, and wit, then this is a book for you to try!
Book Review Published in it's full form here:
https://cozyexperience.com/watching-t...
This series has become one of those where I look forward to the next installment coming out.
If you want a book that has a 1970s Gilmore Girls feel to it and is full of humor, romance, and wit, then this is a book for you to try!
Book Review Published in it's full form here:
https://cozyexperience.com/watching-t...
August 15, 2017
I love me some easy and entertaining page-turners. And if they involve murder and humor: even better! I stumbled across the "Country Club Murders" book series by Julie Mulhern not too long ago, and love each and every single one of them.
So I was happy when NetGalley and Henery Press sent me the kindle version of the latest book in the series: "Watching the Detectives". It did not disappoint! The story is quick, fun, catching and I could literally not put the book down. Great plot and backstory! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
So I was happy when NetGalley and Henery Press sent me the kindle version of the latest book in the series: "Watching the Detectives". It did not disappoint! The story is quick, fun, catching and I could literally not put the book down. Great plot and backstory! Can't wait for the next book in the series!
June 11, 2017
I cannot wait for...
Book 6 in this series! Absolutely love Ellison and Anarchy! There are always enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the reveal! And vicariously reliving the 70s is awesome. So many memories that are clearer now that I am old enough to understand. Thank you and keep the books coming!
Book 6 in this series! Absolutely love Ellison and Anarchy! There are always enough red herrings to keep you guessing until the reveal! And vicariously reliving the 70s is awesome. So many memories that are clearer now that I am old enough to understand. Thank you and keep the books coming!
August 31, 2024
Okay I really loved this one. The case had much more weight as it not only of course involved murder but the issues surrounding it (DV) were pretty new to Ellison. I love watching her grow with each book but it’s usually something that happens more parallel to the case playing out. I really liked how it was more tied together this time.
I’m not upset about the triangle seemingly being resolved for now. I didn’t have super strong feelings about the suitors but I had a feeling which way things would play out based on story potential.
I’m not upset about the triangle seemingly being resolved for now. I didn’t have super strong feelings about the suitors but I had a feeling which way things would play out based on story potential.
November 20, 2017
Another fabulous book in this series. With a sad heart I move on to the last one. Maybe I won’t be sad for too long while I await a new one. I will be here patiently waiting.....
July 4, 2017
In this latest entry in the 1970s Country Club Murders series, widow Ellison Russell wants to redecorate her late husband Henry's study. But after leaving her home for a short errand, the last thing Ellison expects is to find the body of her decorator, Khaki White, on the floor of her study. Unfortunately, it's only been a week since the last body was found and her mother is not amused. And this time Detective Anarchy Jones has a new partner who sees Ellison as the prime suspect. Then Ellison’s overbearing mother forces Ellison into hosting a cocktail party on short notice for her cousin Cora who is chairing a charity luncheon with an explosive speaker. Poor Ellison is stunned when another dead body shows up during the event. Spousal abuse was not a topic publicly acknowledged in 1974 and this plays a key role in the motive for the killings.
I received this book for free from Netgalley and Henery Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book for free from Netgalley and Henery Press in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
August 19, 2017
What a great series! The only bad thing about finishing this book is I now have to wait until the next in the series comes out.
Ellison once again is finding bodies and her mother wants her to stop it! But Ellison doesn't always do what her mother wants, including who she dates. Ellison is trying to be a strong, independent woman and that was not the way women behaved in her mother's circle. The only "man" Ellison really depends on is Mr. Coffee.
This is another great installment in the series and I can't wait for the next one.
Ellison once again is finding bodies and her mother wants her to stop it! But Ellison doesn't always do what her mother wants, including who she dates. Ellison is trying to be a strong, independent woman and that was not the way women behaved in her mother's circle. The only "man" Ellison really depends on is Mr. Coffee.
This is another great installment in the series and I can't wait for the next one.
January 20, 2019
All of Julie Mulhern's books are great!
June 1, 2017
In this book we follow Ellison and Grace Russell and their family and friends. Ellison has decided it's time to redo Henry's study and is thinking about hiring Khaki White who in about a half hour winds up dead in the study while Ellison ran out to pick up her house keeper. Who killed Khaki and why?
As things go by Ellison's mother has an emergency and has Ellison host a dinner party. Which is so not what Ellison wants to be doing but does it anyway. This is happening after Ellison has broken up with Hunter deeming she wants to find out what kind of woman she is without a man. Or maybe Hunter isn't the right kind of man for Ellison. Next thing we are dragged through a drug overdose, an arrest at a luncheon over protesting the speaker. Never seems to be a dull day with the Russell's, as the bodies pile up Ellison is determined to find out what is going on!
I love this book being back in the 80's pre-cell phones like we know them now, seeing how people were different back then you wanted to see someone you called on the house phone or paid a visit. Totally different then now. Families spent time together and the greatest invention seems to be Mr. Coffee the star of the book that helps Ellison think and work out her theories granted he's the strong silent type but you got to love him.
I am such a huge fan and my husband who was a teen in the 80's can appreciate all the various things that are mentioned when I repeat them to him it's like a trip down memory lane move over Jessica Fletcher Ellison Russell is on the case!
As things go by Ellison's mother has an emergency and has Ellison host a dinner party. Which is so not what Ellison wants to be doing but does it anyway. This is happening after Ellison has broken up with Hunter deeming she wants to find out what kind of woman she is without a man. Or maybe Hunter isn't the right kind of man for Ellison. Next thing we are dragged through a drug overdose, an arrest at a luncheon over protesting the speaker. Never seems to be a dull day with the Russell's, as the bodies pile up Ellison is determined to find out what is going on!
I love this book being back in the 80's pre-cell phones like we know them now, seeing how people were different back then you wanted to see someone you called on the house phone or paid a visit. Totally different then now. Families spent time together and the greatest invention seems to be Mr. Coffee the star of the book that helps Ellison think and work out her theories granted he's the strong silent type but you got to love him.
I am such a huge fan and my husband who was a teen in the 80's can appreciate all the various things that are mentioned when I repeat them to him it's like a trip down memory lane move over Jessica Fletcher Ellison Russell is on the case!
April 13, 2017
A hoot of a salute to the 70s.
In spite of the fact that interior designer Khaki White is Hunter Tafft's 2nd ex-wife, Ellison invites Khaki in to quote on redecorating Henry's study. Khaki's clients are all in Ellison's Country Club circle. Something seems to be off - when the redecorating is done most of the couples get a divorce!
Social issues are exposed and Ellison finds herself facing a gun when Khaki's murderer thinks that Ellison knows more than she does. Will Anarchy Jones arrive in time to rescue Ellison?
I'm not going to spoil this plot. It is just so much fun to be back in 1974. Book 5 takes place 6 months after book 1 and Ellison's love life is definitely improving.
The only sad part is that now I have to wait another year for the next book!
Thank you Henery Press and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 5/5
In spite of the fact that interior designer Khaki White is Hunter Tafft's 2nd ex-wife, Ellison invites Khaki in to quote on redecorating Henry's study. Khaki's clients are all in Ellison's Country Club circle. Something seems to be off - when the redecorating is done most of the couples get a divorce!
Social issues are exposed and Ellison finds herself facing a gun when Khaki's murderer thinks that Ellison knows more than she does. Will Anarchy Jones arrive in time to rescue Ellison?
I'm not going to spoil this plot. It is just so much fun to be back in 1974. Book 5 takes place 6 months after book 1 and Ellison's love life is definitely improving.
The only sad part is that now I have to wait another year for the next book!
Thank you Henery Press and Net Galley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. 5/5
July 19, 2023
It's weird to say perhaps but I do like that this series isn't afraid to go to dark places and to really engage with the historical reality in which it is being written. (This is about this book and the one I am on now, shocker, I have already moved on to the next I know.) It's probably past time for Anarchy to have a partner but boo, we do not like him. Anyway, I continue to have a blast with these.
May 28, 2017
Welcome back, Ellison! I have missed you so much!
I adore the Country Club Murders series. To start, the series is unique in that it is set in 1970s Kansas City, (and maintaining a monopoly on cozy mysteries sent then and there). The books are filled with delightful and hilarious characters. Strong, elegant, determined Ellison Russell is one of the most sympathetic and admirable main character in mysteries. She is surrounded by strong personalities, and more and more often, by murderers and poor, murdered people.
Although book four let me down a smidgen with all the clowns and Mr. Coffee, Watching the Detectives brought no dissatisfaction. Ellison is again cool and capable, and the eye of the storm that consists of grumbling teen daughter Grace, iron-willed, tyrannical Mother, mischievous instigator Aunt Sis, fun-loving best friend Libba, gossipy bridge partner Jinx, and a gaggle of zealously well-behaved women from the country club.
A darker subject emerges, which results in Ellison being endangered and under police scrutiny. While being under Anarchy's watch is usually more benevolent than troublesome, Anarchy has a new partner with a penchant for intimidating citizens, and a suspicion that Ellison is a murderess.
Even with such dark subject matter, the book was still filled with Mulhern's characteristic witty one liners, piercing characterization and ridiculous situations.
"I smoothed my expression, less Marie Antoinette on her way to the guillotine, more Marie Antoinette on her way to eat cake.”
"A second man got out of the car. One I didn't know. One who looked as if he'd borrowed Columbo's trench coat, rolled it into a ball, used it as a pillow for a week or two, then decided to wear it.
"He looked like a cross between Dirty Harry and Oscar the Grouch"
Also, 1970s references! Naugahyde noises, rumaki, Marlin Perkins. This series, especially Watching the Detectives, is a treat to read. Great mystery, fantastic characters, entertaining backstory and funny dialogue. Thoroughly enjoyable; I hope there are more to come.
**eARC Netgalley**
I adore the Country Club Murders series. To start, the series is unique in that it is set in 1970s Kansas City, (and maintaining a monopoly on cozy mysteries sent then and there). The books are filled with delightful and hilarious characters. Strong, elegant, determined Ellison Russell is one of the most sympathetic and admirable main character in mysteries. She is surrounded by strong personalities, and more and more often, by murderers and poor, murdered people.
Although book four let me down a smidgen with all the clowns and Mr. Coffee, Watching the Detectives brought no dissatisfaction. Ellison is again cool and capable, and the eye of the storm that consists of grumbling teen daughter Grace, iron-willed, tyrannical Mother, mischievous instigator Aunt Sis, fun-loving best friend Libba, gossipy bridge partner Jinx, and a gaggle of zealously well-behaved women from the country club.
A darker subject emerges, which results in Ellison being endangered and under police scrutiny. While being under Anarchy's watch is usually more benevolent than troublesome, Anarchy has a new partner with a penchant for intimidating citizens, and a suspicion that Ellison is a murderess.
Even with such dark subject matter, the book was still filled with Mulhern's characteristic witty one liners, piercing characterization and ridiculous situations.
"I smoothed my expression, less Marie Antoinette on her way to the guillotine, more Marie Antoinette on her way to eat cake.”
"A second man got out of the car. One I didn't know. One who looked as if he'd borrowed Columbo's trench coat, rolled it into a ball, used it as a pillow for a week or two, then decided to wear it.
"He looked like a cross between Dirty Harry and Oscar the Grouch"
Also, 1970s references! Naugahyde noises, rumaki, Marlin Perkins. This series, especially Watching the Detectives, is a treat to read. Great mystery, fantastic characters, entertaining backstory and funny dialogue. Thoroughly enjoyable; I hope there are more to come.
**eARC Netgalley**
June 27, 2017
Ellison Russell wanted a decorator, not a corpse. Too bad she finds Mrs. White in the study killed with a revolver. Things go from bad to worse when she finds Mr. White in the dining room killed with a candlestick. With so many bodies, is it any wonder Detective Anarchy Jones’ new partner considers Ellison a suspect?
With the country club gossips talking a mile a minute, an unexpected cocktail party, a visit from Aunt Sis, and a romantic decision, Ellison hardly has time to think about murder. Unfortunately, the killer has plenty of time to think about her.
My Thoughts: In this fifth book of the series, Ellison is her usual wise-cracking self who talks to her Mr. Coffee in the mornings and regularly resists the push and pull of her mother’s directives.
Her teenage daughter Grace is as feisty as ever, but she is not like the annoying teens we often see in books. She has a layer of maturity that can only come from being Ellison’s daughter.
Watching the Detectives is set in the 1970s, in St. Louis, Missouri, like the previous books in the series, but this book introduces some new elements: spousal abuse in the country club set, something Ellison was not expecting. Another new element: a detective partnering with Anarchy, an annoying man named Detective Peters. From the descriptions of him and his crumpled trench coat, he could have been a stand-in for Colombo. Except that he lacks that detective’s amiable approach.
As always, the red herrings kept me guessing until the very end…and then Detective Anarchy Jones rides in to save the day. 5 stars for this delightful and fun read.
With the country club gossips talking a mile a minute, an unexpected cocktail party, a visit from Aunt Sis, and a romantic decision, Ellison hardly has time to think about murder. Unfortunately, the killer has plenty of time to think about her.
My Thoughts: In this fifth book of the series, Ellison is her usual wise-cracking self who talks to her Mr. Coffee in the mornings and regularly resists the push and pull of her mother’s directives.
Her teenage daughter Grace is as feisty as ever, but she is not like the annoying teens we often see in books. She has a layer of maturity that can only come from being Ellison’s daughter.
Watching the Detectives is set in the 1970s, in St. Louis, Missouri, like the previous books in the series, but this book introduces some new elements: spousal abuse in the country club set, something Ellison was not expecting. Another new element: a detective partnering with Anarchy, an annoying man named Detective Peters. From the descriptions of him and his crumpled trench coat, he could have been a stand-in for Colombo. Except that he lacks that detective’s amiable approach.
As always, the red herrings kept me guessing until the very end…and then Detective Anarchy Jones rides in to save the day. 5 stars for this delightful and fun read.
April 25, 2017
The Country Club Murders series is one of my all time favorites, and continues to impress with its well developed characters, the 1970's setting, and a wonderful protagonist, Ellison Russell. Watching the Detectives is funny and amusing, but between the macrame owls, Aunt Sis and Grace being arrested, and the horrid buffet arranged by Ellison's mother for a party, it also deals with murder and some very serious and "not spoken of in polite society" issues facing women of that time period. Additionally, Anarchy has a new partner, a wannabe Columbo, who is convinced that Ellison is the murderer ("don't leave town, Mrs. Russell"). Ellison and Anarchy's relationship continues to sizzle (as does her long-time relationship with her Mr. Coffee), and Ellison's continued ability to stand up to her mother, Frances, is very satisfying. I cannot say enough wonderful things about this book, and hated to see it end. Watching the Detectives would be very easy to read in one sitting, but I like to draw it out as long as I can (which isn't very long!) because I love how Julie Mulhern writes. I highly recommend this book, as I do all the books in the Country Club series -- you won't be disappointed.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley and all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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