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Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery #4
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder
A British Cozy Mystery with a Female Amateur Sleuth
A charity ball. A dead guest. Can an amateur sleuth solve the case, or will it ruin Christmas forever?
Aspiring antiques expert, Dotty Sayers, is excited about organizing a ball in a Cotswold country house. When a lecture on modern art leads to a kiss under the mistletoe, she thinks all her Christmases have come at once. But her festive cheer turns sour when a partygoer is found dead on the dance floor.
The police ask Dotty to help wrap up the case of a stolen painting, but as the search continues, she becomes entangled in the murder investigation. When this amateur detective realizes the culprit could be a close friend, will she face the Yuletide music?
Can Dotty put aside her personal feelings and herald a murderer?
A charity ball. A dead guest. Can an amateur sleuth solve the case, or will it ruin Christmas forever?
Aspiring antiques expert, Dotty Sayers, is excited about organizing a ball in a Cotswold country house. When a lecture on modern art leads to a kiss under the mistletoe, she thinks all her Christmases have come at once. But her festive cheer turns sour when a partygoer is found dead on the dance floor.
The police ask Dotty to help wrap up the case of a stolen painting, but as the search continues, she becomes entangled in the murder investigation. When this amateur detective realizes the culprit could be a close friend, will she face the Yuletide music?
Can Dotty put aside her personal feelings and herald a murderer?
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 4, 2022
903 people are currently reading
399 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Tait
46 books328 followersHi, would you like to download Hour is Come, the FREE prequel to my Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series?
If so visit https://bookfunnel.victoriatait.com/s... or visit my website https://www.victoriatait.com
I was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, and never expected to travel the world. I've drawn on my life’s experiences of following my military husband, and a love of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Murder She Wrote, to write British-based cozy mysteries.
My determined and hard-working female sleuths are joined by colourful but realistic teams of helpers, and my settings are vivid and evocative. As you’re compelled to keep turning the pages, you’ll be irresistibly drawn into a world of intrigue, surprises, and humour, as well as a delectable helping of mystery, because tea and intrigue are a perfect blend.
If so visit https://bookfunnel.victoriatait.com/s... or visit my website https://www.victoriatait.com
I was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, and never expected to travel the world. I've drawn on my life’s experiences of following my military husband, and a love of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Murder She Wrote, to write British-based cozy mysteries.
My determined and hard-working female sleuths are joined by colourful but realistic teams of helpers, and my settings are vivid and evocative. As you’re compelled to keep turning the pages, you’ll be irresistibly drawn into a world of intrigue, surprises, and humour, as well as a delectable helping of mystery, because tea and intrigue are a perfect blend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
December 9, 2025
What utter utter crap.
Shockingly badly written. In fact I think a 12 year old could have written it better. Terrible story line, crap writing, dreadful inaccuracies. I got 2/3 of the way through and gave up.
Shockingly badly written. In fact I think a 12 year old could have written it better. Terrible story line, crap writing, dreadful inaccuracies. I got 2/3 of the way through and gave up.
December 21, 2024
3.5* - A fun cozy mystery set in rural England involving an amateur sleuth, art, antiques and of course a murder. The second in a series. I enjoyed it and it was also Christmas themed.
January 7, 2024
Dotty is called an amateur sleuth, But she had little to do with solving the murders. It was right in front of her the whole time and she was too blinded to believe the truth. Others solved the crime. Her interactions with her love interest were creepy. In other words, he was creepy and overbearing. I failed to see the attraction, I would have run. There again there was a good person also interested in her and she totally ignored this, and was very obtuse. Very frustrating read. No strong, independent woman, nothing to see here. Walk away…no run.
November 11, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Aging rockstar Jay Newton returns and again he is opening his home to the public for a charity Christmas gala that includes dinner, dancing, and both a public auction and a silent auction. Dotty and her friend local police sergeant Keya Varma are organizing the event. Dotty is also busy with her work at Akemans Auction House and she just started an Appreciation of Modern Art Short Course that is mostly online but features a weekly in-person lecture by experts. At home, she is helping Aunt Beanie with Uncle Cliff but soon Beanie is going to have to make a huge decision.
The night of the ball arrives and everything is shining bright including Dotty who receives a very special kiss under the mistletoe. But then, just as the silent auction is about to start one of the guests is found dead and later a painting goes missing. The police actually ask for Dotty’s help to find the painting but she quickly realizes that case is coupled with the murder investigation and may involve a friend. Can she remain impartial and find the killer or will these cases ruin everyone’s Christmas?
I love the way Dotty has grown since this series began. She is getting more independent every day and has turned into a strong amateur sleuth. She is also out meeting more people. Taking an art class on her own is a huge step. She is even starting to open up to having a new man in her life.
Dotty is surrounded by a wonderful group of friends but they have struggles of their own. We have watched Uncle Cliff’s dementia change him and it has been hard on Beanie, Norman, and Dotty. In this story, Beanie is under a lot of pressure. Ms. Tait has handled this subplot in a very real way and may make readers get emotional as Beanie works through her decision. I was a little angry with one character but was touched by Beanie the whole time. Another is questioning the strength of her marriage and opens up to Dotty. She has such a compassionate soul, all she wants to do is help.
The author penned a very complex mystery. The victim made his share of enemies so there were plenty of suspects. Murder, money, fidelity, stolen paintings, and forgeries all twist together to set up an incredibly surprising ending, and it’s a bit of a wild ride to get there. I enjoyed every second but am still in shock.
Ms. Tait is a marvelous storyteller. Her characters are diverse and multi-generational. Their interaction and dialogue are true to life. The settings are brought to life with her descriptive writing style. I treasure the feeling of being right there in the room. She includes real everyday issues that we all could face in our own lives. And she always delivers a top-notch mystery that makes me think.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder is an excellent addition to this series. As soon as I finished it I was wishing I had the next book in my hands. Thankfully, my wait won’t be long. Antique Tragedy will be released on December 26. Merry Christmas to me!
Aging rockstar Jay Newton returns and again he is opening his home to the public for a charity Christmas gala that includes dinner, dancing, and both a public auction and a silent auction. Dotty and her friend local police sergeant Keya Varma are organizing the event. Dotty is also busy with her work at Akemans Auction House and she just started an Appreciation of Modern Art Short Course that is mostly online but features a weekly in-person lecture by experts. At home, she is helping Aunt Beanie with Uncle Cliff but soon Beanie is going to have to make a huge decision.
The night of the ball arrives and everything is shining bright including Dotty who receives a very special kiss under the mistletoe. But then, just as the silent auction is about to start one of the guests is found dead and later a painting goes missing. The police actually ask for Dotty’s help to find the painting but she quickly realizes that case is coupled with the murder investigation and may involve a friend. Can she remain impartial and find the killer or will these cases ruin everyone’s Christmas?
I love the way Dotty has grown since this series began. She is getting more independent every day and has turned into a strong amateur sleuth. She is also out meeting more people. Taking an art class on her own is a huge step. She is even starting to open up to having a new man in her life.
Dotty is surrounded by a wonderful group of friends but they have struggles of their own. We have watched Uncle Cliff’s dementia change him and it has been hard on Beanie, Norman, and Dotty. In this story, Beanie is under a lot of pressure. Ms. Tait has handled this subplot in a very real way and may make readers get emotional as Beanie works through her decision. I was a little angry with one character but was touched by Beanie the whole time. Another is questioning the strength of her marriage and opens up to Dotty. She has such a compassionate soul, all she wants to do is help.
The author penned a very complex mystery. The victim made his share of enemies so there were plenty of suspects. Murder, money, fidelity, stolen paintings, and forgeries all twist together to set up an incredibly surprising ending, and it’s a bit of a wild ride to get there. I enjoyed every second but am still in shock.
Ms. Tait is a marvelous storyteller. Her characters are diverse and multi-generational. Their interaction and dialogue are true to life. The settings are brought to life with her descriptive writing style. I treasure the feeling of being right there in the room. She includes real everyday issues that we all could face in our own lives. And she always delivers a top-notch mystery that makes me think.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder is an excellent addition to this series. As soon as I finished it I was wishing I had the next book in my hands. Thankfully, my wait won’t be long. Antique Tragedy will be released on December 26. Merry Christmas to me!
October 29, 2022
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder Earns 5+/5 Silent Auctions…Clever & Engaging!
Dotty Sayers is enjoying her independent lifestyle, improving her knowledge of antiques, taking on a bigger role at Akemans Antiques, and earning the respect of her colleagues. One of those colleagues is Gilmore Chapman, an expert at a London auction house, who is showing interest in more than Dotty’s education. She’s flattered.
Akemens Antiques is always hectic when preparing for the monthly auction, but Dotty’s even busier as she is also helping her friend and local officer Keya Varma organize the Christmas charity ball at Windrush Hall. The last time there was a charity event, also at the Hall, it included a murder, so fingers crossed all goes well. Well, a bit of childhood good luck didn’t work since a guest is discovered collapsed on the dance floor…dead!
Victoria Tait offers up an exciting holiday treat with the fourth book in her Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. A strong, female lead, a clever murder mystery, and some hidden nods to the classic author Dorothy Sayers makes this a top favorite. The antique’s biz may be filled with many honest sellers, brokers, and buyers, but the dark side is illustrated well starting with a victim rumored to use those questionable dealings and confidential connections to his advantage and ending with the revelation of how widespread and dangerous an art scam has become. Victoria’s well-developed, complex tale exposes various financial matters, the condition of several marriages, a search for missing artwork, ins and outs of the art world, some feline and porcine antics, and of course, lots of Christmas cheer. It ends in a shocking, yet a bit perilous, conclusion, and although some of the where, what, and how is revealed about the scam, the who is still an elusive detail.
Victoria Tait’s writing is extremely entertaining from descriptive language and banter illustrating multi-generational personalities. But, it’s Dotty I love! It is exciting to see her going from caterpillar to butterfly, opening up more to the prospect of romance, yet Victoria doesn’t stray from creating her as an independent young woman recognizing it would be counterintuitive to revert her back under someone else’s thumb. Dotty’s friends and colleagues are a joy to follow with varying ages, temperament, and involvement in Dotty’s growth, but Tait’s also included difficulties dealing with a character suffering with dementia, an issue many have personal experience. This cozy is a top contender for my Best of 2022!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
Dotty Sayers is enjoying her independent lifestyle, improving her knowledge of antiques, taking on a bigger role at Akemans Antiques, and earning the respect of her colleagues. One of those colleagues is Gilmore Chapman, an expert at a London auction house, who is showing interest in more than Dotty’s education. She’s flattered.
Akemens Antiques is always hectic when preparing for the monthly auction, but Dotty’s even busier as she is also helping her friend and local officer Keya Varma organize the Christmas charity ball at Windrush Hall. The last time there was a charity event, also at the Hall, it included a murder, so fingers crossed all goes well. Well, a bit of childhood good luck didn’t work since a guest is discovered collapsed on the dance floor…dead!
Victoria Tait offers up an exciting holiday treat with the fourth book in her Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. A strong, female lead, a clever murder mystery, and some hidden nods to the classic author Dorothy Sayers makes this a top favorite. The antique’s biz may be filled with many honest sellers, brokers, and buyers, but the dark side is illustrated well starting with a victim rumored to use those questionable dealings and confidential connections to his advantage and ending with the revelation of how widespread and dangerous an art scam has become. Victoria’s well-developed, complex tale exposes various financial matters, the condition of several marriages, a search for missing artwork, ins and outs of the art world, some feline and porcine antics, and of course, lots of Christmas cheer. It ends in a shocking, yet a bit perilous, conclusion, and although some of the where, what, and how is revealed about the scam, the who is still an elusive detail.
Victoria Tait’s writing is extremely entertaining from descriptive language and banter illustrating multi-generational personalities. But, it’s Dotty I love! It is exciting to see her going from caterpillar to butterfly, opening up more to the prospect of romance, yet Victoria doesn’t stray from creating her as an independent young woman recognizing it would be counterintuitive to revert her back under someone else’s thumb. Dotty’s friends and colleagues are a joy to follow with varying ages, temperament, and involvement in Dotty’s growth, but Tait’s also included difficulties dealing with a character suffering with dementia, an issue many have personal experience. This cozy is a top contender for my Best of 2022!
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
November 8, 2022
Dotty is back in the delightful cozy mystery book, Gavels, Tinsel and Murder. This cozy mystery book is the fourth book in the Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. You can read this without having read the prior three, but you’ll get so much more enjoyment by reading the whole series. As soon as I finished the first book, Fake Death, I immediately went to Amazon to pre-order the following two books which were available. That’s something I almost never do, so that tells you how much I love this series.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder is a British cozy mystery, and if you’ve been reading my reviews for a while, you know I love British cozies. In fact, I’m quite jealous of people who live in small villages in the UK…even if they are fictional people! This series takes place in the Cotswolds (another reason to be jealous of Dotty!) where Dotty and her friend Kaya are organizing a ball in a new friend’s home. The ball includes a silent auction and a small live auction for the most valuable items.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder‘s plot makes for a wonderful backdrop to the murder mystery. I can’t say much about the plot as it might spoil the prior three books for you, and I want you to enjoy them! When the body of an unliked person is found at the ball, there are several plausible suspects. Though the police normally warn Dotty away from investigations, she’s actually asked to keep an eye and ear out for clues to solving the murder as well as a theft which took place at that same location.
The eclectic mix of characters makes this enjoyable series even better. They are one of the reasons I recommend reading the prior books. I think you understand their behaviors and quirks more than you otherwise would. Dotty has grown remarkably throughout the books. Other characters have life altering changes. You’ll be sure to find a character you can relate to or one that you could imagine as your friend. The author’s engaging writing makes for a page-turning book that you won’t want to put down.
I highly recommend Gavels, Tinsel and Murder for its fascinating characters, enjoyable setting, and exciting mystery.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder is a British cozy mystery, and if you’ve been reading my reviews for a while, you know I love British cozies. In fact, I’m quite jealous of people who live in small villages in the UK…even if they are fictional people! This series takes place in the Cotswolds (another reason to be jealous of Dotty!) where Dotty and her friend Kaya are organizing a ball in a new friend’s home. The ball includes a silent auction and a small live auction for the most valuable items.
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder‘s plot makes for a wonderful backdrop to the murder mystery. I can’t say much about the plot as it might spoil the prior three books for you, and I want you to enjoy them! When the body of an unliked person is found at the ball, there are several plausible suspects. Though the police normally warn Dotty away from investigations, she’s actually asked to keep an eye and ear out for clues to solving the murder as well as a theft which took place at that same location.
The eclectic mix of characters makes this enjoyable series even better. They are one of the reasons I recommend reading the prior books. I think you understand their behaviors and quirks more than you otherwise would. Dotty has grown remarkably throughout the books. Other characters have life altering changes. You’ll be sure to find a character you can relate to or one that you could imagine as your friend. The author’s engaging writing makes for a page-turning book that you won’t want to put down.
I highly recommend Gavels, Tinsel and Murder for its fascinating characters, enjoyable setting, and exciting mystery.
December 27, 2022
I still love the characters. I liked the story. I felt let down and disappointed in the end. Stop talking about romance if there will never be one.
November 13, 2022
An excellent holiday set cozy mystery with an authentic Cotswold look and feel.
Gavels, Tinsel, and Murder is another lovely entry in the Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series by author Victoria Tait. I loved that over the course of the series, Dotty has come out of the shell that had been constructed around her growing up and maintained by her much older military spouse. She’s still mourning his death, but time has passed, and healing has started to occur. She’s gotten to a place emotionally where when handsome art buyer, Gilmore Chapman, shows her some very pointed attention, she responds favorably.
The plot hinges on the disappearance of a valuable painting and the practice of some of the local landowners of selling their original artworks after retaining well-done copies to remain in their homes. In this case, Dotty, busy with an upcoming auction at Akeman’s, the Christmas charity ball, her modern art course, and the holidays in general, tries to take a backseat to the police investigation into the murder. However, she’s responsible for the disappearing painting, and the two cases seem to be a matched set, and she must get involved anyway.The author’s easy-to-read style puts the reader in the story right next to her marvelous characters, and it would be a perfect cozy mystery to usher in the feeling of the holidays. I recommend GAVELS, TINSEL, AND MURDER to mystery readers looking for a story set during the holiday season in an authentically portrayed Cotswold setting featuring antiques and fine art.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advanced Review Copy from the author through Great Escapes Virtual Book Tours.
November 2, 2022
Dotty and Keya are organizing a Christmas charity auction and are hard at work with last minute details. Dotty is also furthering her education in the world of art and antiques by taking some course work. Gilmore an expert from the city that Dotty and the gang have met previously seems to be very present and pursuing Dotty rather enthusiastically. Having been rather wishy washy in the past one wonder why he’s being so forward and demonstrative? Popping up everywhere is a rather unpleasant and according to rumors unscrupulous chap Ken Tyler. On the night of the charity ball things are going swimmingly until the silent auction is given the final call and the weasely chap Tyler is found dead. In addition a valuable painting has gone missing. Poor Keya and Dotty they worked so hard to do a good thing and it’s muddled by the terrible actions of a criminal or criminals. Clouding the issue are some suspicious paintings that owners swear are originals but are appraised as forgeries. Which is most assuredly a very good motive for murder.
A tricky case for Keya and the police even with the willing help of Dotty and Aunt Beanie. Lots of personal upheaval in the lives of Beanie and Dotty during this holiday season some good some bad. You’ll have to read for more details. A tricky and intricate case that has all involved stymied right up until the end. Definitely a surprising culprit but a wonderfully captivating mystery!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A tricky case for Keya and the police even with the willing help of Dotty and Aunt Beanie. Lots of personal upheaval in the lives of Beanie and Dotty during this holiday season some good some bad. You’ll have to read for more details. A tricky and intricate case that has all involved stymied right up until the end. Definitely a surprising culprit but a wonderfully captivating mystery!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2022
Darker cosy crime themed around Christmas.
This story could work as a standalone, but would be better if read in sequence as fourth in series. It has ingredients of a cosy crime trope with pets, no violence shown, police getting nowhere and an amateur crime solver. Suspects multiply as the victim is a shady character and opportunity applies to almost everyone we meet. The author describes some locations in detail and it's obvious she has been there.
I was uncertain initially about the inclusion of some darker themes of dementia and divided loyalties, but came to admire the resolutions and feel they added to the merit of the book. However, it may not be everyone's cup of tea if looking for escapism. There is a credible solution to the mystery of murder, but other players are left open so not complete resolution. I suspect this may be leaving the door ajar for another in the series.
I am deducting a star for sloppy editing and too much exposition. The setting is England, but the author intruded at least a couple of times to explain terms for American readers. I think she should not underestimated the intelligence and perspicacity of her international readers. Slipping into US English spellings is another example of sloppiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story could work as a standalone, but would be better if read in sequence as fourth in series. It has ingredients of a cosy crime trope with pets, no violence shown, police getting nowhere and an amateur crime solver. Suspects multiply as the victim is a shady character and opportunity applies to almost everyone we meet. The author describes some locations in detail and it's obvious she has been there.
I was uncertain initially about the inclusion of some darker themes of dementia and divided loyalties, but came to admire the resolutions and feel they added to the merit of the book. However, it may not be everyone's cup of tea if looking for escapism. There is a credible solution to the mystery of murder, but other players are left open so not complete resolution. I suspect this may be leaving the door ajar for another in the series.
I am deducting a star for sloppy editing and too much exposition. The setting is England, but the author intruded at least a couple of times to explain terms for American readers. I think she should not underestimated the intelligence and perspicacity of her international readers. Slipping into US English spellings is another example of sloppiness.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 26, 2022
Another winner for Victoria Tait
Book 4 opens with Dotty taking an art class, organizing a Christmas Ball with Keya at Windrush Hall and doing her job at Akeman's auctions. Also her possible romance with Gilmore Chapman seems to be heating up. Unlike other books in this series there isn't a murder until well into the story. Instead we have much building of the characters and also the introduction of a couple new people into Dotty's circle. Many of her friends seem to be acting a little unusual and Uncle Cliff's condition is continuing to deteriate. One of the new people ins Ken Tyler, a wealthy fellow with somewhat of a questionable moral compass. Not surprisingly he ends up dead at the Christmas Ball and the solving of his murder and the finding of a missing painting make for a very entertaining story. Read and enjoy.
Disclaimer
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Book 4 opens with Dotty taking an art class, organizing a Christmas Ball with Keya at Windrush Hall and doing her job at Akeman's auctions. Also her possible romance with Gilmore Chapman seems to be heating up. Unlike other books in this series there isn't a murder until well into the story. Instead we have much building of the characters and also the introduction of a couple new people into Dotty's circle. Many of her friends seem to be acting a little unusual and Uncle Cliff's condition is continuing to deteriate. One of the new people ins Ken Tyler, a wealthy fellow with somewhat of a questionable moral compass. Not surprisingly he ends up dead at the Christmas Ball and the solving of his murder and the finding of a missing painting make for a very entertaining story. Read and enjoy.
Disclaimer
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2022
Once again Victoria Tait has written a stunning addition to the " A Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery " some wonderfully familiar,and whimsical characters and a few new colorful ,quirky and charming characters .The fabulous characters draw you in right away with their friendly and open approach to life as well as community, then you are enticed further into its intriguing and deadly mystery ,while being carried throughout by the discovery of certain prominent members of society secrets being exposed. As usual once I began this entrancing cozey mystery with murder I wasn't able to put it down until I had reached the unexpected and climatic conclusion. Acquire " Gavels Tinsel and Murder " for hours of intriguing and enjoyable entertainment. Kat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 2, 2022
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder by Victoria Tait is Book 4 of A Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery Series. I quite enjoyed reading about Dotty and her discovering adventures. The characters are believable and entertaining, the plot is tangled enough to be intriguing without being impossible, and the descriptions of the Cotswolds are magnificent. The regular characters in the series are generally quirky and interesting and I really enjoy reading about them. I'm sure plenty of readers can relate to various characters and situations. Dotty's little brush with romance has been a long time coming.
Ms. Tait provides a book with homage paid to Dorothy Sayers but without Ms. Sayer's sometimes exaggerated estimates of the depths of her readers' familiarity with Greek and other esoteric knowledge. Well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Ms. Tait provides a book with homage paid to Dorothy Sayers but without Ms. Sayer's sometimes exaggerated estimates of the depths of her readers' familiarity with Greek and other esoteric knowledge. Well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 24, 2022
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder by Victoria Tait is Book 4 of A Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery Series. Dotty’s new life continues with her job at Akeman's Antiques Auction House after the death of her husband. Likable characters and vivid descriptions keep you interested in Dotty’s job duties. She has made wonderful friends and is settling into her new life. Dotty is tasked with organizing a Christmas ball with an auction. Unfortunately, during the festivities a dead body is discovered. Then an expensive painting is discovered stolen, and the discovery of forgeries has them stumped. Dotty starts to uncover hidden secrets, but will this lead to a friend being charged? This fun, easy to read cozy is a delight to read. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout.
November 4, 2022
Antique expert Dotty Sayers is excited about organizing a ball at Cotswold country House. A lecture on modern art leads to a romance and she thinks her Christmas is special. But a party goer is found dead on the dance floor wrapped with a tinsel round his neck.The police asks Dotty to help and she also has the help of her police friend Sergent Keya Verna. There is a lot of mystery and mayhem when a art scam is revealed. The man who was murdered was also hated by many as he was a blackmailing everyone to get what he wanted. There is a very surprising finish when the culprit is revealed. A Great Read and very enjoyable. I am on the ARC term and I leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
November 4, 2022
Just when Dotty thinks they will have a successful fundraiser part way through the night there is a murder and worst still there are loads of potential suspects including new and old friends! I really liked how you just weren't sure who it was and kept hoping it wasn't someone close to Dotty and while Dotty and others are trying to solve the case there is also her romance that is blossoming as well as a stolen painting and some hard decision for Aunt Beanie to make. There is highs and lows as well as fun and twists along with some new friends to make and secrets that get revealed and I absolutely loved it!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 4, 2024
This is book four in a series I haven’t read. I found the story to be interesting and was able to read it in the airport and on several plane segments, but I found the beginning chapters had way too many names of characters at a party that made me so confused. Perhaps having a character index or maybe fewer “new to this installment” characters speaking? There was a spot or two where our main character, Dottie, overhears people speaking and summarizes. That may provide less distraction from the story for those like me who found a freebie Cozy Mystery that seemed intriguing. Not sure if I’ll read more but will keep it in my book list in case I find myself with time to start at the beginning.
November 6, 2022
Dotty along with friends and family are trying to solve a mystery that revolves around the British art and auction scene. You also get to be involved with real people who must deal with real life issues. All this and an ending to surprise you.
This is part of a series but you can enjoy this as a stand alone.
I love that this is a fictional mystery story but you can almost see it being taken from headlines of your local paper. Victoria has done a wonderful job of giving each of her characters their own voice and enabling you to get to know them.
I'm looking forward to her next book, I want to know what they are up to next.
This is part of a series but you can enjoy this as a stand alone.
I love that this is a fictional mystery story but you can almost see it being taken from headlines of your local paper. Victoria has done a wonderful job of giving each of her characters their own voice and enabling you to get to know them.
I'm looking forward to her next book, I want to know what they are up to next.
November 13, 2022
Gavels, Tinsel and Murder is book #4 in the Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series by Victoria Tait.
Dotty Sayers is helping with a ball and a charity auction. Her personal life is busy with work, school, and a budding relationship. Things are going well until a body is found and artwork is stolen.
Wow! I didn’t see the ending coming. The situation with Cliff and Beanie is so sad and realistic. The mystery of the missing artwork and the murder wrapped up in an unexpected way. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dotty Sayers is helping with a ball and a charity auction. Her personal life is busy with work, school, and a budding relationship. Things are going well until a body is found and artwork is stolen.
Wow! I didn’t see the ending coming. The situation with Cliff and Beanie is so sad and realistic. The mystery of the missing artwork and the murder wrapped up in an unexpected way. I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 20, 2022
Ms. Tait provides a book with homage paid to Dorothy Sayers but without Ms. Sayer's sometimes exaggerated estimates of the depths of her readers' familiarity with Greek and other esoteric knowledge. The characters are believable and entertaining, the plot is tangled enough to be intriguing without being impossible, and the descriptions of the Cotswolds are magnificent. Well done.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 26, 2022
It might be an odd thing to say about a murder mystery, but I always read this series with a little smile on my face.
I love reading about Dotty and her adventures. The regular characters are generally quirky and interesting and I really enjoy reading about them. I'm sure plenty of readers can relate to various characters and situations.
Dotty's little brush with romance has been a long time coming.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love reading about Dotty and her adventures. The regular characters are generally quirky and interesting and I really enjoy reading about them. I'm sure plenty of readers can relate to various characters and situations.
Dotty's little brush with romance has been a long time coming.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2022
I absolutely loved this book!
The setting, the characters and the mystery are a little gem.
The writing is captivating and everything is working like magic to make you forget of the outside world.
Impossible to put down, this book, and the entire series, are a cozy mysteries reader treasure.
Highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The setting, the characters and the mystery are a little gem.
The writing is captivating and everything is working like magic to make you forget of the outside world.
Impossible to put down, this book, and the entire series, are a cozy mysteries reader treasure.
Highly recommended!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2023
Another good story
As with all the previous books in this series, I really enjoyed this book.
Everything was well thought out and each person was presented as very realistic.
I can picture all the places that the author describes, and that's very important to me in terms of a book, as it helps me immerse myself in the story.
The only thing I noticed this time around is that there were quite a lot of errors in this one as opposed to the others.
Other than that, great story!
As with all the previous books in this series, I really enjoyed this book.
Everything was well thought out and each person was presented as very realistic.
I can picture all the places that the author describes, and that's very important to me in terms of a book, as it helps me immerse myself in the story.
The only thing I noticed this time around is that there were quite a lot of errors in this one as opposed to the others.
Other than that, great story!
November 3, 2022
If you love British cozies, this is the book for you! Dotty is organizing a Christmas ball & auction at a country manor. Everything starts out great until she finds one of the guests dead! Nobody liked the victim so there's lots of suspects. Hopefully Dotty will be able to figure this one out. I love all the descriptions of the English countryside and the restaurants and the food too.
November 3, 2022
Really enjoying this series. Book 4 has Dotty being put in charge of organizing a Christmas ball. But when a body is discovered during the ball she of decides to investigate. Also widowed Dotty may have a new man in her life.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 4, 2022
I really have enjoyed this series. Dotty is a great character and the author has done a good job with this character growing in personality in each book. I love when characters don’t stay static! The plot is well written and interesting. Recommended. Thanks to the author, I received a copy of this book. My review is voluntary.
November 6, 2022
I liked this festive mystery. I loved Dotty as a character. She is fun to read about. I loved the storyline and I think that the author did a great job with the setting. It makes you the reader feel that you are with Dotty at the scene of the crime.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2022
Dottie is developing her sleuthing skills with a couple of new puzzles to solve. A murder combines with disappearing and reappearing paintings to keep the reader guessing almost until the end.
A surprise twist reveals who the culprits are and Dottie grows a little stronger with each reveal she uncovers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A surprise twist reveals who the culprits are and Dottie grows a little stronger with each reveal she uncovers.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2022
Who died?
Dotty Sayers organized a Christmas Ball. Somebody was killed at the ball during the meal right before the silent auction!
Who died? Why did the person die? Does anyone have the answers?
An engrossing tale which is sure to hold the readers interest until the very end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dotty Sayers organized a Christmas Ball. Somebody was killed at the ball during the meal right before the silent auction!
Who died? Why did the person die? Does anyone have the answers?
An engrossing tale which is sure to hold the readers interest until the very end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2022
Who died?
Dotty Sayers organized a Christmas Ball. Somebody was killed at the ball during the meal right before the silent auction!
Who died? Why did the person die? Does anyone have the answers?
An engrossing tale which is sure to hold the readers interest until the very end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dotty Sayers organized a Christmas Ball. Somebody was killed at the ball during the meal right before the silent auction!
Who died? Why did the person die? Does anyone have the answers?
An engrossing tale which is sure to hold the readers interest until the very end!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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