What do you think?
Rate this book
Joe McCullen Cozy Mystery #1
Murder at the Convent
A murdered nun.
A convent full of suspects.
Who could have committed such a horrible crime?
Father Joe McCullen is no ordinary priest.
He has a heart of gold, but he's no pushover.
Very little passes his ears or his eyes and he can smell a "rat" from a mile away.
The community of Old Providence is held by higher standards by the beloved priest, yet "skeletons" still manage to creep out of the closets of his faithful parishioners every now and then, and oftentimes are not headed anywhere in the direction of the confessional.
Join Father Joe McCullen on the most extraordinary, eyebrow-raising adventures of mystery, suspense, humor - and surprise after surprise!
A convent full of suspects.
Who could have committed such a horrible crime?
Father Joe McCullen is no ordinary priest.
He has a heart of gold, but he's no pushover.
Very little passes his ears or his eyes and he can smell a "rat" from a mile away.
The community of Old Providence is held by higher standards by the beloved priest, yet "skeletons" still manage to creep out of the closets of his faithful parishioners every now and then, and oftentimes are not headed anywhere in the direction of the confessional.
Join Father Joe McCullen on the most extraordinary, eyebrow-raising adventures of mystery, suspense, humor - and surprise after surprise!
- GenresMystery
226 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 1, 2022
426 people are currently reading
81 people want to read
About the author
Tanya R. Taylor
87 books368 followersTanya R. Taylor is the author of both fiction and non-fiction literature, including two #1 bestsellers on Amazon - 'Cornelius' and the 'INFESTATION: A Small Town Nightmare' series. She writes in various genres including: Paranormal romance, science fiction, mystery and suspense.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews
November 10, 2025
I actually liked this book more than what I thought I would have. It started off slow and meh honestly and I was like is this worth countine it. And I'm really glad I decided to continue it as it was really good and I enjoyed it as the story progressed. I think there was just a vibe of this book that made it a great cozy mystery. I feel the story was told a development was done really well. I will definitely be countine the series and I recommend this it is on kindle unlimited.
September 4, 2022
Well written with great characters that will keep you intrigued. A murder that has to be solved, will Joe be the one. Absolutely loved everything about it.
October 8, 2022
Who killed Mother Elizabeth Rhinehart and why??? Even though she wasn’t well liked, was she??? I enjoyed this story and recommend the book.
October 1, 2022
Murder at the Convent by Tanya r. Taylor is the first book in this series. Joe McCullen is a priest and a amateur sleuth. He is true to his calling as a priest and he always tries to find the truth in situations. A murder has been committed. The head nun or "Mother" has been murdered. A young man has been accused. Can Father Joe find the real murder and salvage young Mike's reputation?
This is a book that had me trying to solve the crime along with Father Joe. I did not do well! The plot and characters are well developed and you will be guessing until the end. I like the way the book wrapped up the different characters and their stories so that there were no doubts or unfinished details left to the reader to wonder about what happened. I received an advance reader copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. I recommend this book.
This is a book that had me trying to solve the crime along with Father Joe. I did not do well! The plot and characters are well developed and you will be guessing until the end. I like the way the book wrapped up the different characters and their stories so that there were no doubts or unfinished details left to the reader to wonder about what happened. I received an advance reader copy of this book and I always review every book that I read. I recommend this book.
July 29, 2022
Murder at the Convent - a review by Rosemary Kenny.
A series opener for Tanya R.Taylor's Father Joe McCullen Cozy Mysteries Series is Murder at the Convent.
Father Joe is strongly reminiscent of Father Brown in the G.K. Chesterton novels and tv series, (perhaps mixed in with a soupçon of Dick van Dyke in Diagnosis Murder) as a seemingly quiet community of nuns is shocked to the core by the murder of their often obstreperous Mother Superior.
A perhaps too obvious suspect turns out to have had nothing to do with the killing.
But surely it couldn't be one of the other nuns?
Read Tanya R Taylor's latest offering, Murder at the Convent, and prepare to be enchanted, quickly addicted and eager for more of the Joe McCullen Cozy Mysteries series!
A series opener for Tanya R.Taylor's Father Joe McCullen Cozy Mysteries Series is Murder at the Convent.
Father Joe is strongly reminiscent of Father Brown in the G.K. Chesterton novels and tv series, (perhaps mixed in with a soupçon of Dick van Dyke in Diagnosis Murder) as a seemingly quiet community of nuns is shocked to the core by the murder of their often obstreperous Mother Superior.
A perhaps too obvious suspect turns out to have had nothing to do with the killing.
But surely it couldn't be one of the other nuns?
Read Tanya R Taylor's latest offering, Murder at the Convent, and prepare to be enchanted, quickly addicted and eager for more of the Joe McCullen Cozy Mysteries series!
July 27, 2022
"Believe the incredible and you can do the impossible. "
Mother Elizabeth was dead. When an innocent was arrested, Father Joe made it his business to try to solve the murder and clear the one jailed. His "sleuthing" is not admired by the local cops who really didn't do a very good job. Now what does he do?
This is the start of a new series for author Tanya R Taylor and the character Father Joe hasn't developed fully in my opinion. But, as retired clergy, I understand some of his hesitancy and see that these stories have potential to become a favorite. Recommended 4/5
[Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntary read and reviewed it]
Mother Elizabeth was dead. When an innocent was arrested, Father Joe made it his business to try to solve the murder and clear the one jailed. His "sleuthing" is not admired by the local cops who really didn't do a very good job. Now what does he do?
This is the start of a new series for author Tanya R Taylor and the character Father Joe hasn't developed fully in my opinion. But, as retired clergy, I understand some of his hesitancy and see that these stories have potential to become a favorite. Recommended 4/5
[Disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntary read and reviewed it]
September 16, 2022
It is all too easy to blame someone for something if they have had even a little trouble in the past. Thank heavens for Father Joe McCullen. He knew the person accused of murdering the Nun did not do it. It took quite a bit to find out who did do it, while holding his congregation to their supposed religious beliefs!
The Nun who was murdered was not the nicest person and very few of the other Nuns really liked her. But could one of them have done it? This clean cozy will keep you reading in order to find out.
I have read a few of this author's novel--but they were ghost stories. I definitely loved those--but am looking forward to reading the rest of this cozy series!!
The Nun who was murdered was not the nicest person and very few of the other Nuns really liked her. But could one of them have done it? This clean cozy will keep you reading in order to find out.
I have read a few of this author's novel--but they were ghost stories. I definitely loved those--but am looking forward to reading the rest of this cozy series!!
July 24, 2022
Who would kill Mother!
When a murder occurs behind the locked doors of the convent, Father Joe McCullen cannot allow an innocent to be arrested. Old Providence will not be safe until the murderer is behind bars.
This series is off to a good start. Father Joe is an interesting combination of confessor and inquisitor as he pursues the case. He has a gentle yet humorous attitude with his parishioners but is adamant about standing up for what is right. I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary. I look forward to seeing where this series will go next.
When a murder occurs behind the locked doors of the convent, Father Joe McCullen cannot allow an innocent to be arrested. Old Providence will not be safe until the murderer is behind bars.
This series is off to a good start. Father Joe is an interesting combination of confessor and inquisitor as he pursues the case. He has a gentle yet humorous attitude with his parishioners but is adamant about standing up for what is right. I received an advance copy but my review is honest and voluntary. I look forward to seeing where this series will go next.
July 27, 2022
The unfortunate passing of Mother Elizabeth, who was murdered in the convent in South Pickstock, was shocking news to the community, especially Father Joe McCullen!
Everyone seemed a potential suspect as the investigation being carried out.
Who on earth would commit such sinful act on such sacred ground?
Tanya Taylor’s MURDER AT THE CONVENT is a wealth of suspense and intrigue. I truly enjoyed it and highly recommend this book to anyone who would enjoy such cozy mysteries!
I would like to thank Tanya Taylor for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
Everyone seemed a potential suspect as the investigation being carried out.
Who on earth would commit such sinful act on such sacred ground?
Tanya Taylor’s MURDER AT THE CONVENT is a wealth of suspense and intrigue. I truly enjoyed it and highly recommend this book to anyone who would enjoy such cozy mysteries!
I would like to thank Tanya Taylor for the ARC in exchange of my honest review.
July 28, 2022
Who committed the ultimate sin of murdering Mother Superior? When the teen that Father Joe McCullen took under his wing is charged with the murder, Father Joe is not accepting the charge. Father Joe isn't going to sit back and let an innocent kid go to prison for murder. The police believe that they have their suspect, so they aren't looking for anyone else. Does Father Joe find out who killed the Mother Superior? Are the police correct, do they have the right suspect? Find out what really happened in this surprise ending.
I voluntary read and reviewed this advanced copy of this book.
I voluntary read and reviewed this advanced copy of this book.
July 30, 2022
A surprising murder
A murdered nun. Other nuns in a panic. An incompetent detective. Fr Joe is perplexed. Who would want to kill a nun? Granted that she was a nasty human being but is that sufficient reason? When an innocent teenager is accused, Fr Joe does his own sleuthing to find the real culprit. I enjoyed reading this book in one sitting. The story line was intriguing and the cast of characters well portrayed. I love the cover of the book. Tanya Taylor is one of my favourites.
A murdered nun. Other nuns in a panic. An incompetent detective. Fr Joe is perplexed. Who would want to kill a nun? Granted that she was a nasty human being but is that sufficient reason? When an innocent teenager is accused, Fr Joe does his own sleuthing to find the real culprit. I enjoyed reading this book in one sitting. The story line was intriguing and the cast of characters well portrayed. I love the cover of the book. Tanya Taylor is one of my favourites.
July 27, 2022
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great suspense and found myself second guessing every thought I had continuously.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
July 27, 2022
This was a clean murder mystery. The characters were well defined. I read this almost all the way through without stopping. There were a few homilies vs direct preachiness. I didn't like Father Joe using slang. The man of the cloth was dignified but relaxed with those around him. The y'all's just didn't sit right with me. I would gladly read another book in this series.
I was sent a free Advance Reader's Copy of this book for a fair & unbiased review.
I was sent a free Advance Reader's Copy of this book for a fair & unbiased review.
July 31, 2022
Murder At The Convent is book #1 in Joe McCullen Cozy Mystery series by Tanya R. Taylor.
A nun is murdered at a convent. The police latch onto a suspect on flimsy evidence leading Father Joe to step up and investigate. It was a quick read and I look forward to seeing Father Joe develop.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
A nun is murdered at a convent. The police latch onto a suspect on flimsy evidence leading Father Joe to step up and investigate. It was a quick read and I look forward to seeing Father Joe develop.
I received an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
August 2, 2022
This was a quick but intense story. I read it in one sitting. The premise is different and kept me turning the pages. Father Joe McCullen is a fun character whom I am looking forward to getting to know him in further stories. The characters were relatable and the dialogue was realistic....highly recommend. I received an advance copy of this book from the author and this is my honest review.
October 20, 2022
Mother Elizabeth, the Mother Superior, has been found murdered. It seems that Mother Elizabeth has made a few enemies as she is harsh and less than Christian in her dealings with her fellow sister as well as congregants. At 82, she should have retired of but refused. Who could have killed her? Very enjoyable; couldn't put it down!
July 28, 2022
I thought I knew who “done” it right from the beginning
I was certain I had seen the clues.
And then it was nothing like I thought; and I was totally wrong L0L.
I missed all the clues.
Overall an enjoyable short read.
I was certain I had seen the clues.
And then it was nothing like I thought; and I was totally wrong L0L.
I missed all the clues.
Overall an enjoyable short read.
August 2, 2022
I have thoroughly enjoyed other books by Tanya Taylor. But this read like a first attempt, for some reason. To me, the characters were too two-dimensional. Not a bad read. The murder mystery gets solved.
December 7, 2022
Father Joe is an amazing character. This was a very fun fast read. The story kept turning in ways that kept my interest to the end - which I did not expect! I received an Acadlike it so much, I purchased a copy.
July 4, 2023
Enjoyed the way this mystery was written. The story was solid--I had no idea who the villain was. Characters were strong and mostly likeable. I do think some of Father Joe's congregants need to come to mass more often or listen better, but it made the story more believable. Recommend reading.
October 15, 2024
How is this series so highly rated
I am struggling to understand how this series is so highly rated - characters are not fleshed out and borderline caricatures, the story is disjointed, there is no sense of time or place, and the ending is pat and, frankly, eye rolling.
I am struggling to understand how this series is so highly rated - characters are not fleshed out and borderline caricatures, the story is disjointed, there is no sense of time or place, and the ending is pat and, frankly, eye rolling.
August 17, 2022
The cover of the same book I read was a fall setting and was so pretty. This was a mystery that had you guessing at every stage. Tanya hit the ball straight up the middle for a triple!
October 27, 2022
My rating: 2-1/2 stars. I found some serious mistakes that got missed in the proof reading
November 7, 2022
This was the first book I've read from this author. I enjoyed the cozy mystery. A few twists and turns in the solving of the crime. I enjoyed it. Reminded me of the FATHER BROWN Mysteries I used to watch on PBS TV. Very enjoyable.
June 11, 2023
murder at the convent
I enjoyed the book.
I did not solve the murder as I usually do. A twist I didn’t expect.
Enjoyable character.
I enjoyed the book.
I did not solve the murder as I usually do. A twist I didn’t expect.
Enjoyable character.
September 2, 2023
A 3.5….I enjoyed the characters and especially Father Joe’s handling of delicate situations (real life lessons learned). Will definitely read others in the series.
June 28, 2024
I really enjoyed reading this first book in the series because it reminds me of the Father Brown Mysteries.
August 2, 2022
father Joe
This new series of cozy mysteries shows promise. It was a good read, but the ending seemed rushed and was presented too hurriedly.
This new series of cozy mysteries shows promise. It was a good read, but the ending seemed rushed and was presented too hurriedly.
October 10, 2022
Excellent first book in a new series. A new (to me) author.
Currently reading
November 27, 2022Author discount 99
Displaying 1 - 30 of 31 reviews