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Edwina Bristol PI #1
A Routine Infidelity
A delightfully sharp and clever murder mystery, perfect for fans of Richard Osman’s The Thursday Murder Club
Private investigator Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol deals in the cheating husbands and missing chihuahuas of Melbourne, but yearns for the heart-stopping excitement of real crime.
When Ted discovers her sister, Bob, has fallen prey to an internet catfishing scam, she sets out with her beloved miniature schnauzer and shrewd sidekick, Miss Marple, to catch the swindler. Meanwhile, when conducting routine surveillance on a couple suspected of having an affair, she uncovers a plot to embezzle millions.
As Bob’s case takes a series of bizarre twists and turns and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder, Ted finds her own life in peril. Will she crack her first criminal case before it’s too late?
If you love the madcap adventures of Phryne Fisher, you’re sure to love Ted Bristol, written by Elizabeth Coleman, screenwriter for Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries.
Private investigator Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol deals in the cheating husbands and missing chihuahuas of Melbourne, but yearns for the heart-stopping excitement of real crime.
When Ted discovers her sister, Bob, has fallen prey to an internet catfishing scam, she sets out with her beloved miniature schnauzer and shrewd sidekick, Miss Marple, to catch the swindler. Meanwhile, when conducting routine surveillance on a couple suspected of having an affair, she uncovers a plot to embezzle millions.
As Bob’s case takes a series of bizarre twists and turns and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder, Ted finds her own life in peril. Will she crack her first criminal case before it’s too late?
If you love the madcap adventures of Phryne Fisher, you’re sure to love Ted Bristol, written by Elizabeth Coleman, screenwriter for Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries.
392 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 31, 2023
29 people are currently reading
607 people want to read
About the author
Elizabeth Coleman
37 books43 followersElizabeth Coleman wrote her first novel when she was seven – that’s if you can call four pages in an old exercise book a novel.
She was a huge Enid Blyton fan and didn’t let the fact that she’d never been out of Australia deter her from writing a story about an English boarding school, full of girls having midnight feasts in the dorm and saying stuff like: ‘I say, we’re off to Cornwall for the hols!’
When her mum and dad gently suggested that she try writing about an Australian school, Elizabeth was appalled. Who cares about an Australian school? Not a midnight feast or a scary but benign matron in sight.
Elizabeth is the author of four published plays, including the smash hits Secret Bridesmaids' Business and It's My Party (And I'll Die If I Want To). Her theatre writing has also appeared in several anthologies. As a screenwriter Elizabeth adapted Secret Bridesmaids' Business into an award-winning ABC telemovie and has written for many of Australia's most popular dramas, including Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and Bed of Roses, which she co-created with Jutta Goetze. Losing the Plot is her first novel.
She was a huge Enid Blyton fan and didn’t let the fact that she’d never been out of Australia deter her from writing a story about an English boarding school, full of girls having midnight feasts in the dorm and saying stuff like: ‘I say, we’re off to Cornwall for the hols!’
When her mum and dad gently suggested that she try writing about an Australian school, Elizabeth was appalled. Who cares about an Australian school? Not a midnight feast or a scary but benign matron in sight.
Elizabeth is the author of four published plays, including the smash hits Secret Bridesmaids' Business and It's My Party (And I'll Die If I Want To). Her theatre writing has also appeared in several anthologies. As a screenwriter Elizabeth adapted Secret Bridesmaids' Business into an award-winning ABC telemovie and has written for many of Australia's most popular dramas, including Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and Bed of Roses, which she co-created with Jutta Goetze. Losing the Plot is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
August 31, 2024
I really enjoyed this mystery novel by a new (to me) author who also turned out to be Australian. In fact she is a screen writer for the Miss Fisher's Murder Mystery series.
We meet Edwina Bristol P.I. who calls herself Ted. When she discovers her sister has been taken in by an online catfishing scam she sets out to catch the instigator with some very surprising results. At the same time her day-to-day business of following unfaithful marriage partners exposes a huge embezzlement scheme and a murder. It seems her investigating business is taking off.
This book had everything it needs to be an excellent reading experience. The characters are well written, just slightly quirky and fun, the two mysteries are cleverly spun, and Ted herself is great character. Oh and there is a dog called Miss Marple. Books are always better with a dog especially one as cute as this one.
The second book in this series is already out called A Dance With Murder. I will be reading it very soon.
We meet Edwina Bristol P.I. who calls herself Ted. When she discovers her sister has been taken in by an online catfishing scam she sets out to catch the instigator with some very surprising results. At the same time her day-to-day business of following unfaithful marriage partners exposes a huge embezzlement scheme and a murder. It seems her investigating business is taking off.
This book had everything it needs to be an excellent reading experience. The characters are well written, just slightly quirky and fun, the two mysteries are cleverly spun, and Ted herself is great character. Oh and there is a dog called Miss Marple. Books are always better with a dog especially one as cute as this one.
The second book in this series is already out called A Dance With Murder. I will be reading it very soon.
January 23, 2023
A Routine Infidelity is the debut novel by Australian author Elizabeth Coleman. Featuring newly minted PI Edwina (Ted) Bristol, this pacy crime caper blends a perfect mix of borderline craziness, light-hearted banter and serious detective work while also managing to throw in a darker, more guilt-ridden past once you get to know Ted a little better.
At first glance, it appears that we’re in for a fairly standard PI story. Ted Bristol is the principal, and sole, employee of Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI). She’s a self-proclaimed kick-arse PI who, despite her diminutive size can hold her own when it comes to facing people down. She’s just starting out and is in the building phase of her business as a civil investigator with much of her work consisting of surveillance of possible insurance scams, cheating spouses and serving papers.
But it becomes apparent that there are a few aspects of Ted that sets her apart from her peers. The first is her sidekick, Miss Marple, a miniature schnauzer with a rather diffident attitude. The second is her weekly recreational activity of participating in Swordcraft, a medieval battle game that takes place every Saturday night (she’s a warrior elf). Throw in the fact that she has 7 older brothers and one older sister, she works next door to a maybe-psychic, she’s enjoying a friends-with-benefits relationship with Joel because she has commitment issues and she still can’t speak to her father 30 years after watching her mother drown. Yep, a lot is going on.
While working on what appears to be a reasonably straightforward case to confirm that a husband is cheating on his wife, Ted believes she’s stumbled across a much bigger corporate fraud scam. Sensing this to be the big break that EBI needs to attract future clients, she works it hard and walks straight into danger. And that’s where things really start to get interesting.
I really enjoyed A Routine Infidelity, firstly because of the slightly offbeat humour dotted throughout as well as the rapid-fire action. But mainly for the multi-dimensional subplots that continually added a freshness to the storyline. The traditional private eye work was a good start, but then the hint of the mystical gave it a solid woo-woo feel, the overly large family provides boundless potential for antagonistic showdowns and finally, the hint of a budding romance or two.
Just when it seemed this would be a purely plot-driven mystery we are taken to a darker place to find that Ted is hiding a guilt-ridden past. An exploration of what took place 30 years ago and its effects on her now, plus the impact it had on older sister Bob provides much needed character development.
This is clearly the first book in a series with a tantalising case in the offing providing an appetite whetting ending. I’ll be looking forward to the next case taken on by Edwina Bristol Investigations.
With thanks to NetGalley and Pantera Press for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
At first glance, it appears that we’re in for a fairly standard PI story. Ted Bristol is the principal, and sole, employee of Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI). She’s a self-proclaimed kick-arse PI who, despite her diminutive size can hold her own when it comes to facing people down. She’s just starting out and is in the building phase of her business as a civil investigator with much of her work consisting of surveillance of possible insurance scams, cheating spouses and serving papers.
But it becomes apparent that there are a few aspects of Ted that sets her apart from her peers. The first is her sidekick, Miss Marple, a miniature schnauzer with a rather diffident attitude. The second is her weekly recreational activity of participating in Swordcraft, a medieval battle game that takes place every Saturday night (she’s a warrior elf). Throw in the fact that she has 7 older brothers and one older sister, she works next door to a maybe-psychic, she’s enjoying a friends-with-benefits relationship with Joel because she has commitment issues and she still can’t speak to her father 30 years after watching her mother drown. Yep, a lot is going on.
While working on what appears to be a reasonably straightforward case to confirm that a husband is cheating on his wife, Ted believes she’s stumbled across a much bigger corporate fraud scam. Sensing this to be the big break that EBI needs to attract future clients, she works it hard and walks straight into danger. And that’s where things really start to get interesting.
I really enjoyed A Routine Infidelity, firstly because of the slightly offbeat humour dotted throughout as well as the rapid-fire action. But mainly for the multi-dimensional subplots that continually added a freshness to the storyline. The traditional private eye work was a good start, but then the hint of the mystical gave it a solid woo-woo feel, the overly large family provides boundless potential for antagonistic showdowns and finally, the hint of a budding romance or two.
Just when it seemed this would be a purely plot-driven mystery we are taken to a darker place to find that Ted is hiding a guilt-ridden past. An exploration of what took place 30 years ago and its effects on her now, plus the impact it had on older sister Bob provides much needed character development.
This is clearly the first book in a series with a tantalising case in the offing providing an appetite whetting ending. I’ll be looking forward to the next case taken on by Edwina Bristol Investigations.
With thanks to NetGalley and Pantera Press for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 4, 2023
A Routine Infidelity by Elizabeth Coleman
Synopsis /
Private investigator Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol deals in the cheating husbands and missing chihuahuas of Melbourne, but yearns for the heart-stopping excitement of real crime.
When Ted discovers her sister, Bob, has fallen prey to an internet catfishing scam, she sets out with her beloved miniature schnauzer and shrewd sidekick, Miss Marple, to catch the swindler. Meanwhile, when conducting routine surveillance on a couple suspected of having an affair, she uncovers a plot to embezzle millions.
As Bob’s case takes a series of bizarre twists and turns and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder, Ted finds her own life in peril. Will she crack her first criminal case before it’s too late?
My Thoughts /
Everything that you love, you will eventually lose, but in the end, love will return in a different form.
Small time private investigator, Edwina (Ted) Bristol spends her days serving court documents, exposing cheating spouses, and updating her online exposure for Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI) via various social media apps, such updates include uploading articles like "10 Signs Your Spouse is Cheating". And while EBI is humming along (and very nicely, thank you), Ted wants nothing more than to escape the bread and butter of her PI life and embark on something exciting, something high-profile, something…….dangerous. Be careful what you wish for!
When cheating husbands are a dime a dozen and catching out cheating husbands brings you a reliable income, it can all get rather a little humdrum. But things take a dramatic turn for Ted Bristol when her sister, Bob, falls victim to an online catfishing scam.
Written by established screenwriter Elizabeth Coleman, A Routine Infidelity marks her foray into the cosy crime genre. Although technically, Coleman is not altogether 'new' to the scene, having contributed to every season of televisions Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and writing four published plays, which include the smash hits - Secret Bridesmaid's Business and It's My Party (and I'll Die if I Want To).
Edwina (Ted) Bristol is one of nine siblings. She has seven (yes seven!) brothers - Kerry, Kym, Leslie, Robin, Mel, Pip and Lee; and one sister, Roberta (Bob). Ted's mother passed away when Ted was only four years old (there's a backstory which is revealed slowly over the course of the novel) and Bob basically raised Ted and her brothers because their father was consumed with grief over his wife's passing. Bob and Ted have a very close familial relationship. Bob is a ray of sunshine; looks for the best in everyone and would give you the shirt of her back if you needed it, without question. Ted on the other hand, is a cynic; a sceptic; a doubter - because of her work with Edwina Bristol Investigations. Her only soft spots are reserved for Bob and Miss Marple (her miniature schnauzer).
So it comes as no surprise that when Ted discovers that her big-hearted sister might have fallen prey to a catfishing scam, Ted is outraged, and sets off with her miniature schnauzer sidekick to seek redress on her sister's behalf.
While working on a current case for a client - a case of routine infidelity of a suspected cheating spouse - Ted uncovers far more than just an unfaithful spouse. While working a routine surveillance operation on her "target", which is suspected of having an affair with a co-worker - she uncovers that the targeted duo is working on a plot to embezzle millions of dollars and then disappear with money. Ted is gleeful - EBI has just landed its first proper criminal case! The case takes a series of twists and turns, and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder. Be careful what you wish for!
Coleman writes with snappy dialogue, high drama, and multiple plot threads, but one of the more standout things about this novel are its characters. The relationships Coleman has created between the characters are part of what makes this novel so enjoyable. Ted and Bob are as thick as thieves, and although they don't always see eye-to-eye, always have each other's best interests are heart. Ted, as cranky as she is, would do anything for Bob and, by the end of the book you as the reader would too!
By the end, all plot holes were filled, and loose ends tied up fairly well. A fun and entertaining cozy, with the hint of a sequel to come.
Synopsis /
Private investigator Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol deals in the cheating husbands and missing chihuahuas of Melbourne, but yearns for the heart-stopping excitement of real crime.
When Ted discovers her sister, Bob, has fallen prey to an internet catfishing scam, she sets out with her beloved miniature schnauzer and shrewd sidekick, Miss Marple, to catch the swindler. Meanwhile, when conducting routine surveillance on a couple suspected of having an affair, she uncovers a plot to embezzle millions.
As Bob’s case takes a series of bizarre twists and turns and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder, Ted finds her own life in peril. Will she crack her first criminal case before it’s too late?
My Thoughts /
Everything that you love, you will eventually lose, but in the end, love will return in a different form.
Small time private investigator, Edwina (Ted) Bristol spends her days serving court documents, exposing cheating spouses, and updating her online exposure for Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI) via various social media apps, such updates include uploading articles like "10 Signs Your Spouse is Cheating". And while EBI is humming along (and very nicely, thank you), Ted wants nothing more than to escape the bread and butter of her PI life and embark on something exciting, something high-profile, something…….dangerous. Be careful what you wish for!
When cheating husbands are a dime a dozen and catching out cheating husbands brings you a reliable income, it can all get rather a little humdrum. But things take a dramatic turn for Ted Bristol when her sister, Bob, falls victim to an online catfishing scam.
Written by established screenwriter Elizabeth Coleman, A Routine Infidelity marks her foray into the cosy crime genre. Although technically, Coleman is not altogether 'new' to the scene, having contributed to every season of televisions Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and writing four published plays, which include the smash hits - Secret Bridesmaid's Business and It's My Party (and I'll Die if I Want To).
Edwina (Ted) Bristol is one of nine siblings. She has seven (yes seven!) brothers - Kerry, Kym, Leslie, Robin, Mel, Pip and Lee; and one sister, Roberta (Bob). Ted's mother passed away when Ted was only four years old (there's a backstory which is revealed slowly over the course of the novel) and Bob basically raised Ted and her brothers because their father was consumed with grief over his wife's passing. Bob and Ted have a very close familial relationship. Bob is a ray of sunshine; looks for the best in everyone and would give you the shirt of her back if you needed it, without question. Ted on the other hand, is a cynic; a sceptic; a doubter - because of her work with Edwina Bristol Investigations. Her only soft spots are reserved for Bob and Miss Marple (her miniature schnauzer).
So it comes as no surprise that when Ted discovers that her big-hearted sister might have fallen prey to a catfishing scam, Ted is outraged, and sets off with her miniature schnauzer sidekick to seek redress on her sister's behalf.
While working on a current case for a client - a case of routine infidelity of a suspected cheating spouse - Ted uncovers far more than just an unfaithful spouse. While working a routine surveillance operation on her "target", which is suspected of having an affair with a co-worker - she uncovers that the targeted duo is working on a plot to embezzle millions of dollars and then disappear with money. Ted is gleeful - EBI has just landed its first proper criminal case! The case takes a series of twists and turns, and the embezzlement investigation escalates into murder. Be careful what you wish for!
Coleman writes with snappy dialogue, high drama, and multiple plot threads, but one of the more standout things about this novel are its characters. The relationships Coleman has created between the characters are part of what makes this novel so enjoyable. Ted and Bob are as thick as thieves, and although they don't always see eye-to-eye, always have each other's best interests are heart. Ted, as cranky as she is, would do anything for Bob and, by the end of the book you as the reader would too!
By the end, all plot holes were filled, and loose ends tied up fairly well. A fun and entertaining cozy, with the hint of a sequel to come.
January 24, 2023
4.5★s
A Routine Infidelity is the second novel by Australian playwright, screenwriter and author, Elizabeth Coleman. Cheating spouses are Ted Bristol’s bread and butter. Edwina Bristol Investigations also handles the occasional serving of court summonses, but nothing meatier, meaning her seven older brothers tend not to take her chosen profession too seriously. One even dubs her “the barely civil investigator”.
It’s on just such an assignment that Ted gets her chance: the brawny accountant at the trucking company is not only having an affair with the pretty purchasing officer, but apparently also embezzling a significant amount of the profits. Finally, something that might put EBI on the map, if only her phone recording of their discussion can be made clearer.
While taking advantage of her niece Chuck’s techy talents, she learns that her sweet, kind, elder sister, Bob, has been catfished by one Captain William Ingram, an “SAS soldier serving in Afghanistan” to the tune of five hundred dollars. No way Ted can let that go unanswered. Bob is embarrassed, but takes Ted’s advice to warn the scammer off, so she is surprised to get a visit from someone who purports to be family of the soldier: could this be genuine?
Another potential infidelity case comes from Chantal Considine, grief counsellor turned spiritual medium. When Ted reports back that Andrew’s liaisons appear to be innocent, Chantal feels compelled to share with Ted a warning about her safety, something that involves her mother and the sea and a few other bizarre signs. Sceptical, Ted angrily dismisses this as nonsense, but it does bring to mind the guilty secret that, for three decades, has stifled her relationship with her father.
Chantal always rationalised her faking it as a medium as offering people the comfort they needed, but lately, her experiences have been disturbingly real and accurate…
As well as the excitement of Ted’s embezzlement case, there’s a hint of romance for each of the Bristol sisters: if Bob’s soldier isn’t real, there’s a widowed regular customer of her flower shop in the wings; Ted’s friends-with-benefits with Joel might be over, but despite their oppositional banter at Swordcraft, Senior Detective Spike Tereiti seems attracted to her.
Coleman’s protagonist is interesting and a little quirky; her clever miniature schnauzer, Miss Marple, will appeal to many readers; setting, dialogue and support characters are all well depicted; there’s plenty of humour in the lead up to the dramatic climax; and the final page hints at more books for this entertaining Australian cosy crime read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Pantera Press.
A Routine Infidelity is the second novel by Australian playwright, screenwriter and author, Elizabeth Coleman. Cheating spouses are Ted Bristol’s bread and butter. Edwina Bristol Investigations also handles the occasional serving of court summonses, but nothing meatier, meaning her seven older brothers tend not to take her chosen profession too seriously. One even dubs her “the barely civil investigator”.
It’s on just such an assignment that Ted gets her chance: the brawny accountant at the trucking company is not only having an affair with the pretty purchasing officer, but apparently also embezzling a significant amount of the profits. Finally, something that might put EBI on the map, if only her phone recording of their discussion can be made clearer.
While taking advantage of her niece Chuck’s techy talents, she learns that her sweet, kind, elder sister, Bob, has been catfished by one Captain William Ingram, an “SAS soldier serving in Afghanistan” to the tune of five hundred dollars. No way Ted can let that go unanswered. Bob is embarrassed, but takes Ted’s advice to warn the scammer off, so she is surprised to get a visit from someone who purports to be family of the soldier: could this be genuine?
Another potential infidelity case comes from Chantal Considine, grief counsellor turned spiritual medium. When Ted reports back that Andrew’s liaisons appear to be innocent, Chantal feels compelled to share with Ted a warning about her safety, something that involves her mother and the sea and a few other bizarre signs. Sceptical, Ted angrily dismisses this as nonsense, but it does bring to mind the guilty secret that, for three decades, has stifled her relationship with her father.
Chantal always rationalised her faking it as a medium as offering people the comfort they needed, but lately, her experiences have been disturbingly real and accurate…
As well as the excitement of Ted’s embezzlement case, there’s a hint of romance for each of the Bristol sisters: if Bob’s soldier isn’t real, there’s a widowed regular customer of her flower shop in the wings; Ted’s friends-with-benefits with Joel might be over, but despite their oppositional banter at Swordcraft, Senior Detective Spike Tereiti seems attracted to her.
Coleman’s protagonist is interesting and a little quirky; her clever miniature schnauzer, Miss Marple, will appeal to many readers; setting, dialogue and support characters are all well depicted; there’s plenty of humour in the lead up to the dramatic climax; and the final page hints at more books for this entertaining Australian cosy crime read.
This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by NetGalley and Pantera Press.
February 3, 2024
This. Book. Went. On. Way. Longer. Than. It. Should. Have.
OMG. I remember looking down at one point as it seemed to be wrapping up and seeing I still had another 20% to go and thinking what in the hell is there left to say? Turns out, if you just keep adding on new twists to mostly resolved plot lines, you can go on indefinitely.
I want to talk about Bob. She deserves to be cat-fished into complete and utter financial ruin, I’m actually saddened that she wasn’t shot. I wish Ted had used that gun on Bob. I will never forgive this author for making sit through the absolute bullshit that was Bob negotiating with Ted to let that unhinged woman get off completely scot free.
Unredeemable fucking nonsense.
OMG. I remember looking down at one point as it seemed to be wrapping up and seeing I still had another 20% to go and thinking what in the hell is there left to say? Turns out, if you just keep adding on new twists to mostly resolved plot lines, you can go on indefinitely.
I want to talk about Bob. She deserves to be cat-fished into complete and utter financial ruin, I’m actually saddened that she wasn’t shot. I wish Ted had used that gun on Bob. I will never forgive this author for making sit through the absolute bullshit that was Bob negotiating with Ted to let that unhinged woman get off completely scot free.
Unredeemable fucking nonsense.
March 16, 2023
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
Starts a little slowly and a little repetitive (friends with benefits anyone!!) but it sucks you in!! Ted and Bob are fascinating characters and I look forward to seeing how this new case (no spoilers) impacts on Ted's blossoming relationship!
Starts a little slowly and a little repetitive (friends with benefits anyone!!) but it sucks you in!! Ted and Bob are fascinating characters and I look forward to seeing how this new case (no spoilers) impacts on Ted's blossoming relationship!
November 12, 2022
A quirky feel good crime that takes you on a romp through contemporary Melbourne with a cute schnauzer.
April 22, 2023
I had so much fun reading this!
This has a great cast of characters and I loved all of them. Ted especially was so great especially with her side kick Miss Marple. This was full of twists and turns, offset by family drama and overall a world I wanted to spend more time in. I'm a sucker at the moment for characters that come to terms with their pasts and this book definitely delivered on that. I hope there is more in this world because I will definitely be reading them
This has a great cast of characters and I loved all of them. Ted especially was so great especially with her side kick Miss Marple. This was full of twists and turns, offset by family drama and overall a world I wanted to spend more time in. I'm a sucker at the moment for characters that come to terms with their pasts and this book definitely delivered on that. I hope there is more in this world because I will definitely be reading them
April 3, 2023
I thought this was a pretty decent murder mystery. It reminded me very much of one of those Phryne Fisher stories. It moved along quite quickly and had a few little side plots going on, and I didnt immediately guess the killer, which is always a big upside. I raced through reading this and will definitely keep an eye out for the next book from this writer
February 27, 2023
This was fantastic!
May 13, 2024
What a fun debut novel! Even better that it's a series 🥰
PI Edwina (Ted) Bristol is eager for a serious crime to solve. She spends her days catching cheating spouses and finding missing pets, so when she happens upon a possible embezzlement scheme she is keen to crack the case.
Add her canine sidekick Miss Marple, a psychic neighbour, a catfishing plot and a few twists and turns, this is an entertaining cosy mystery read. Can't wait to read the next book!
PI Edwina (Ted) Bristol is eager for a serious crime to solve. She spends her days catching cheating spouses and finding missing pets, so when she happens upon a possible embezzlement scheme she is keen to crack the case.
Add her canine sidekick Miss Marple, a psychic neighbour, a catfishing plot and a few twists and turns, this is an entertaining cosy mystery read. Can't wait to read the next book!
April 29, 2023
I didn’t like the writing style & too many “coincidences”.
April 7, 2023
“A Routine Infidelity” is a charming crime novel (now there’s a phrase I don’t use often) which should delight a wide range of readers. More complex than a cosy mystery, less violent than a hardboiled crime novel, this is nicely grounded with a touch of escapism.
I really enjoyed reading this. There’s a touch of the sardonic style that I associate with the Phyrne Fisher novels – hardly surprising as Coleman has scripted the TV series’ derived from that, and actively name checks Phyrne. However, this novel and its’ heroine are original.
Edwina “Ted” Bristol is a private eye in current day Melbourne. She’s only licensed as a civil investigator, so much of her work comes from cheating spouses. She dreams, however, of the day she’ll expose a real crime. She’s inappropriately thrilled when a case of a cheating spouse turns into a multi million embezzlement scheme. However, her investigation doesn’t go smoothly, and soon murder has entered the picture.
Meanwhile, Ted’s beloved older sister has fallen prey to a catfisher, denting her heart and her bank account. Ted’s relationship with her large family is prickly and often problematic, but she adores her sister. Outraged, she sets out to find the evildoer and rend him limb from limb. Or at least make his life miserable.
The plotting is excellent – there’s lots going on, not all of it connected. It’s a bit twisty, not easy to anticipate what’s going to happen next, but at the same time very easy to follow as it unfolds. It’s also very believable, and quite contemporary. I found the catfishing plot particularly current.
Coleman chooses to gloss over recent issues (by which I mean the pandemic) but in other regards her Melbourne setting is vividly drawn. If you’ve ever been there, it’ll strike a chord. If you haven’t, you’ll be picturing it very accurately. This background isn’t particularly important to the story, but it contributes to building a story that is very immersive.
I found Ted a vivid and realistic character. Maybe a tiny bit cliched at times, but there would have been a lot less to the novel if she had a happy homelife and no hang-ups. I think Coleman has used some tropes of the genre and a good understanding of people to build a complex and interesting person. Ted isn’t always likable, but I think most readers will be on her side.
The final pages contain a loose thread so obvious it’s more of a rope; a sequel is coming. Most readers will be pleased to realise that. Reading this was a really enjoyable way to spend a day, and I’ll definitely be looking for the sequel.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
I really enjoyed reading this. There’s a touch of the sardonic style that I associate with the Phyrne Fisher novels – hardly surprising as Coleman has scripted the TV series’ derived from that, and actively name checks Phyrne. However, this novel and its’ heroine are original.
Edwina “Ted” Bristol is a private eye in current day Melbourne. She’s only licensed as a civil investigator, so much of her work comes from cheating spouses. She dreams, however, of the day she’ll expose a real crime. She’s inappropriately thrilled when a case of a cheating spouse turns into a multi million embezzlement scheme. However, her investigation doesn’t go smoothly, and soon murder has entered the picture.
Meanwhile, Ted’s beloved older sister has fallen prey to a catfisher, denting her heart and her bank account. Ted’s relationship with her large family is prickly and often problematic, but she adores her sister. Outraged, she sets out to find the evildoer and rend him limb from limb. Or at least make his life miserable.
The plotting is excellent – there’s lots going on, not all of it connected. It’s a bit twisty, not easy to anticipate what’s going to happen next, but at the same time very easy to follow as it unfolds. It’s also very believable, and quite contemporary. I found the catfishing plot particularly current.
Coleman chooses to gloss over recent issues (by which I mean the pandemic) but in other regards her Melbourne setting is vividly drawn. If you’ve ever been there, it’ll strike a chord. If you haven’t, you’ll be picturing it very accurately. This background isn’t particularly important to the story, but it contributes to building a story that is very immersive.
I found Ted a vivid and realistic character. Maybe a tiny bit cliched at times, but there would have been a lot less to the novel if she had a happy homelife and no hang-ups. I think Coleman has used some tropes of the genre and a good understanding of people to build a complex and interesting person. Ted isn’t always likable, but I think most readers will be on her side.
The final pages contain a loose thread so obvious it’s more of a rope; a sequel is coming. Most readers will be pleased to realise that. Reading this was a really enjoyable way to spend a day, and I’ll definitely be looking for the sequel.
An edited version of this review first appeared on www.beautyandlace.net as part of their bookclub.
If you enjoyed this review, please visit www.otherdreamsotherlives.home.blog to read more.
March 23, 2023
4.5★s
A Routine Infidelity is the second novel by Australian playwright, screenwriter and author, Elizabeth Coleman. The audio version is narrated by Ella James. Cheating spouses are Ted Bristol’s bread and butter. Edwina Bristol Investigations also handles the occasional serving of court summonses, but nothing meatier, meaning her seven older brothers tend not to take her chosen profession too seriously. One even dubs her “the barely civil investigator”.
It’s on just such an assignment that Ted gets her chance: the brawny accountant at the trucking company is not only having an affair with the pretty purchasing officer, but apparently also embezzling a significant amount of the profits. Finally, something that might put EBI on the map, if only her phone recording of their discussion can be made clearer.
While taking advantage of her niece Chuck’s techy talents, she learns that her sweet, kind, elder sister, Bob, has been catfished by one Captain William Ingram, an “SAS soldier serving in Afghanistan” to the tune of five hundred dollars. No way Ted can let that go unanswered. Bob is embarrassed, but takes Ted’s advice to warn the scammer off, so she is surprised to get a visit from someone who purports to be family of the soldier: could this be genuine?
Another potential infidelity case comes from Chantal Considine, grief counsellor turned spiritual medium. When Ted reports back that Andrew’s liaisons appear to be innocent, Chantal feels compelled to share with Ted a warning about her safety, something that involves her mother and the sea and a few other bizarre signs. Sceptical, Ted angrily dismisses this as nonsense, but it does bring to mind the guilty secret that, for three decades, has stifled her relationship with her father.
Chantal always rationalised her faking it as a medium as offering people the comfort they needed, but lately, her experiences have been disturbingly real and accurate…
As well as the excitement of Ted’s embezzlement case, there’s a hint of romance for each of the Bristol sisters: if Bob’s soldier isn’t real, there’s a widowed regular customer of her flower shop in the wings; Ted’s friends-with-benefits with Joel might be over, but despite their oppositional banter at Swordcraft, Senior Detective Spike Tereiti seems attracted to her.
Coleman’s protagonist is interesting and a little quirky; her clever miniature schnauzer, Miss Marple, will appeal to many readers; setting, dialogue and support characters are all well depicted; there’s plenty of humour in the lead up to the dramatic climax; and the final page hints at more books for this entertaining Australian cosy crime read.
A Routine Infidelity is the second novel by Australian playwright, screenwriter and author, Elizabeth Coleman. The audio version is narrated by Ella James. Cheating spouses are Ted Bristol’s bread and butter. Edwina Bristol Investigations also handles the occasional serving of court summonses, but nothing meatier, meaning her seven older brothers tend not to take her chosen profession too seriously. One even dubs her “the barely civil investigator”.
It’s on just such an assignment that Ted gets her chance: the brawny accountant at the trucking company is not only having an affair with the pretty purchasing officer, but apparently also embezzling a significant amount of the profits. Finally, something that might put EBI on the map, if only her phone recording of their discussion can be made clearer.
While taking advantage of her niece Chuck’s techy talents, she learns that her sweet, kind, elder sister, Bob, has been catfished by one Captain William Ingram, an “SAS soldier serving in Afghanistan” to the tune of five hundred dollars. No way Ted can let that go unanswered. Bob is embarrassed, but takes Ted’s advice to warn the scammer off, so she is surprised to get a visit from someone who purports to be family of the soldier: could this be genuine?
Another potential infidelity case comes from Chantal Considine, grief counsellor turned spiritual medium. When Ted reports back that Andrew’s liaisons appear to be innocent, Chantal feels compelled to share with Ted a warning about her safety, something that involves her mother and the sea and a few other bizarre signs. Sceptical, Ted angrily dismisses this as nonsense, but it does bring to mind the guilty secret that, for three decades, has stifled her relationship with her father.
Chantal always rationalised her faking it as a medium as offering people the comfort they needed, but lately, her experiences have been disturbingly real and accurate…
As well as the excitement of Ted’s embezzlement case, there’s a hint of romance for each of the Bristol sisters: if Bob’s soldier isn’t real, there’s a widowed regular customer of her flower shop in the wings; Ted’s friends-with-benefits with Joel might be over, but despite their oppositional banter at Swordcraft, Senior Detective Spike Tereiti seems attracted to her.
Coleman’s protagonist is interesting and a little quirky; her clever miniature schnauzer, Miss Marple, will appeal to many readers; setting, dialogue and support characters are all well depicted; there’s plenty of humour in the lead up to the dramatic climax; and the final page hints at more books for this entertaining Australian cosy crime read.
May 1, 2023
I hadn’t heard of this genre before reading this book. A reviewer described it as belonging to the “cozy crime” genre. Wikipedia describes these as: “Cozy mysteries, also referred to as "cozies", are a subgenre of crime fiction in which sex and violence occur off stage, the detective is an amateur sleuth, and the crime and detection take place in a small, socially intimate community.”
In this case, the sleuth is a young woman named Ted (short for Edwina) who, in the absence of other options, has become a private investigator. Most of the cases that she has managed involved people cheating on their partners. In her down time, she plays Swordcraft – which is convenient because one of her fellow Swordcrafters is a police detective. Apparently it is common in Cozies that the main character has a “contact on the police force who can give them access to important information about the case at hand, but the contact is typically a spouse, lover, friend, or family member rather than a former colleague.” (Wikipedia)
Apparently “The supporting characters in cozy mysteries are often very broadly drawn and used as comic relief.” In this book, we have Ted’s miniature schnauzer Miss Marple – a no-nonsense hard-to-please type who often plays a part in the plot of the story.
Cozies are said to “stand in contrast to hardboiled fiction, in which more violence and explicit sexuality are central to the plot.” One reviewer described them as “almost impossibly quaint” (https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/a...) which is a fabulous fit with this novel.
Ted gets involved in a case with a husband who is potentially cheating on his wife but it spirals into something more complex. She also is forced to confront some difficult issues within her family.
This is a really enjoyable piece of fluff. I particularly liked the references to places in Melbourne p- it’s a very local book “that name-drops such iconic neighbourhood locations as Dights Falls and the Collingwood Children’s Farm.” I liked the spirit of Ted and the difficulties she gets herself into. I understand the attraction of the Cozy – I think I read one too many grim Jo Nesbo-style crime novels where young women are tortured in increasingly vile ways and it’s a relief to read a crime novel that has a lighter tone. It reminded me in tone of Lessons in Chemistry – I think that you can see the writer enjoying themselves as they write. Ultimately this novel is about what is important in life - families and connection.
One quibble – why did most of the female characters have male names – it made no sense.
In this case, the sleuth is a young woman named Ted (short for Edwina) who, in the absence of other options, has become a private investigator. Most of the cases that she has managed involved people cheating on their partners. In her down time, she plays Swordcraft – which is convenient because one of her fellow Swordcrafters is a police detective. Apparently it is common in Cozies that the main character has a “contact on the police force who can give them access to important information about the case at hand, but the contact is typically a spouse, lover, friend, or family member rather than a former colleague.” (Wikipedia)
Apparently “The supporting characters in cozy mysteries are often very broadly drawn and used as comic relief.” In this book, we have Ted’s miniature schnauzer Miss Marple – a no-nonsense hard-to-please type who often plays a part in the plot of the story.
Cozies are said to “stand in contrast to hardboiled fiction, in which more violence and explicit sexuality are central to the plot.” One reviewer described them as “almost impossibly quaint” (https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/a...) which is a fabulous fit with this novel.
Ted gets involved in a case with a husband who is potentially cheating on his wife but it spirals into something more complex. She also is forced to confront some difficult issues within her family.
This is a really enjoyable piece of fluff. I particularly liked the references to places in Melbourne p- it’s a very local book “that name-drops such iconic neighbourhood locations as Dights Falls and the Collingwood Children’s Farm.” I liked the spirit of Ted and the difficulties she gets herself into. I understand the attraction of the Cozy – I think I read one too many grim Jo Nesbo-style crime novels where young women are tortured in increasingly vile ways and it’s a relief to read a crime novel that has a lighter tone. It reminded me in tone of Lessons in Chemistry – I think that you can see the writer enjoying themselves as they write. Ultimately this novel is about what is important in life - families and connection.
One quibble – why did most of the female characters have male names – it made no sense.
March 6, 2023
A decent debut from a writer with experience in crime fiction via the silver screen. Set in contemporary Melbourne, Ted is a PI specialising in mostly routine infidelity cases, trying to establish her business. Her next door neighbour is Chantal, a psychic medium with whom Ted has a somewhat combative relationship, probably because Chantal's musings hit close to home. Ted's own life is of course complicated by a large family and somewhat fractious relationship with her Dad because of deep seeded trauma, which also explains why Ted struggles to commit, except to her loyal puppy companion Miss Marple. When one of Ted's cases begins to explode, she needs to learn to rely on the assistance of others, including her policeman associate and Swordplay frenemy Spike.
This one took a while to gel, but towards the end picked up pace and was engaging. It's an obvious start of a series so a lot of time is taken up with establishing characters and their motivations, and showing how they're all interconnected. Ted herself is not always likeable, she's prickly and kind of annoying at times, so I'm hoping in subsequent novels it's easier to relate to her. She's almost a bit too complicated and quirky for me in her current form, and lacks a bit of empathy and fun. I gotta say too I didn't love all the family drama. I know it's the first book, but I'm hoping they take more of a backseat in future reads. The novel has all the requirements of a good crime caper with potential for humour but again I hope this finds its flow in upcoming novels. The book reminded me of Stephanie Plum but not as funny or relaxed. Some of the pop culture references were grating and will date badly I think. It's almost like the author tried to be hip and happening by including these things but it didn't always feel authentic. Overall it was an easy read, keeping you guessing until the end, which was also a decent twist. I'd look for future books in this series.
This one took a while to gel, but towards the end picked up pace and was engaging. It's an obvious start of a series so a lot of time is taken up with establishing characters and their motivations, and showing how they're all interconnected. Ted herself is not always likeable, she's prickly and kind of annoying at times, so I'm hoping in subsequent novels it's easier to relate to her. She's almost a bit too complicated and quirky for me in her current form, and lacks a bit of empathy and fun. I gotta say too I didn't love all the family drama. I know it's the first book, but I'm hoping they take more of a backseat in future reads. The novel has all the requirements of a good crime caper with potential for humour but again I hope this finds its flow in upcoming novels. The book reminded me of Stephanie Plum but not as funny or relaxed. Some of the pop culture references were grating and will date badly I think. It's almost like the author tried to be hip and happening by including these things but it didn't always feel authentic. Overall it was an easy read, keeping you guessing until the end, which was also a decent twist. I'd look for future books in this series.
March 31, 2024
Edwina Bristol is growing her private eye business, working mostly to catch cheating spouses and missing pets, but is craving a chance to sink her teeth in to a real crime. When she overhears one of her cheating spouses talking to his lover about embezzling millions of dollers she is sure this is her chance, and puts her all into tracking down the evidence. Has Ted bitten off more than she can chew though? With her life in danger Ted doesn't know where to turn for help.
I grabbed this from Audible as a daily deal because the blurb caught my eye, and I've been particularly enjoying cosy crime recently. This one was fun and a slightly different take, with our heroine being a private investigator. It was a nice change.
The storyline in this one is a lot of fun. As mentioned in the synopsis Ted's cases tend to focus on cheating spouses and similar things. Her methods sound a bit madcap (such as knowing all of the bin routes so that she can check her clients rubbish) but she gets results. There's plenty of humour and light heartedness to be found in these cases, and even when we get into the nitty gritty of the embezlement case the book still doesn't become too serious or dark.
Ted herself is a bit of an enigma. She's close to her sister, but distanced from her father despite having regular family catch ups. She doesn't want to settle down, keeping her friend with benefits at arms length. It's obvious there is something holding her back from developing these relationships, but it takes time to realise what is going on. This is the part of the book that is taken a little more seriously, but Coleman still manages to do this without getting things too dark and heavy.
All up I thought this was a great lighthearted and fun read. I'll be grabbing the second book, but probably keep it up my sleeve for a while until I need a pick me up listen.
I grabbed this from Audible as a daily deal because the blurb caught my eye, and I've been particularly enjoying cosy crime recently. This one was fun and a slightly different take, with our heroine being a private investigator. It was a nice change.
The storyline in this one is a lot of fun. As mentioned in the synopsis Ted's cases tend to focus on cheating spouses and similar things. Her methods sound a bit madcap (such as knowing all of the bin routes so that she can check her clients rubbish) but she gets results. There's plenty of humour and light heartedness to be found in these cases, and even when we get into the nitty gritty of the embezlement case the book still doesn't become too serious or dark.
Ted herself is a bit of an enigma. She's close to her sister, but distanced from her father despite having regular family catch ups. She doesn't want to settle down, keeping her friend with benefits at arms length. It's obvious there is something holding her back from developing these relationships, but it takes time to realise what is going on. This is the part of the book that is taken a little more seriously, but Coleman still manages to do this without getting things too dark and heavy.
All up I thought this was a great lighthearted and fun read. I'll be grabbing the second book, but probably keep it up my sleeve for a while until I need a pick me up listen.
July 31, 2023
A Routine Infidelity by Elizabeth Coleman
📚 Why I chose it:
I was completely sold by the cover and title.
🤷🏼♀️ What it's about:
Ted is a Private Investigator who specialises in cheating spouses. A seemingly ordinary case unfurls into a lot more and may just give her little business the boost that it needs but calls her safety into question.
✨️ Why I recommend it:
This book was so unapologetically Australian, specifically Melbournian - from the language to the settings and even down to the traffic, and far out I loved it. The multi POV complimented the plot and helped with pacing but it was Ted and her miniature schnauzer Miss Marple that really stole the show. Their internal dialogue shared through looks and facial expressions was such a highlight. It took me time to warm to Ted, I needed to get to know her better before deciding whether I liked her or not. But this felt really authentic and true to her personality, and exactly as it would have happened if I met her in real life. Bob absolutely melted my heart and I was so invested in her journey. The character development was really well done, with each having a solid arc - even Miss Marple. There was humour, family dysfunction, heartbreak, swordcraft, action, mystery, suspense and even a sneaky cameo of some salt and vinegar chips. It had it all and it worked. I’m really looking forward to the next instalment.
🤩 Read if you like:
Murder mystery, contemporary fiction, multi POV, animal sidekicks, Australian setting, conversational tone with dry humour.
📖 Ebook or physical book?
Either format would suit, but the cover looks great in its physical form.
📚 Why I chose it:
I was completely sold by the cover and title.
🤷🏼♀️ What it's about:
Ted is a Private Investigator who specialises in cheating spouses. A seemingly ordinary case unfurls into a lot more and may just give her little business the boost that it needs but calls her safety into question.
✨️ Why I recommend it:
This book was so unapologetically Australian, specifically Melbournian - from the language to the settings and even down to the traffic, and far out I loved it. The multi POV complimented the plot and helped with pacing but it was Ted and her miniature schnauzer Miss Marple that really stole the show. Their internal dialogue shared through looks and facial expressions was such a highlight. It took me time to warm to Ted, I needed to get to know her better before deciding whether I liked her or not. But this felt really authentic and true to her personality, and exactly as it would have happened if I met her in real life. Bob absolutely melted my heart and I was so invested in her journey. The character development was really well done, with each having a solid arc - even Miss Marple. There was humour, family dysfunction, heartbreak, swordcraft, action, mystery, suspense and even a sneaky cameo of some salt and vinegar chips. It had it all and it worked. I’m really looking forward to the next instalment.
🤩 Read if you like:
Murder mystery, contemporary fiction, multi POV, animal sidekicks, Australian setting, conversational tone with dry humour.
📖 Ebook or physical book?
Either format would suit, but the cover looks great in its physical form.
July 28, 2024
Cosy mysteries, like chick lit, are deceptively difficult to get right but I think Coleman nailed the brief.
This book introduces us to Edwina (Ted) Bristol, a private detective based in Melbourne. When on the case of a routine infidelity, Ted stumbles across a major case of embezzlement, and then a murder, leaving Ted on the brink of success or, more concerningly, peril.
There are a couple of other mysteries, including one involving Ted’s sister, Bob, being taken for a ride by an internet scam artist. (Ted has eight siblings, and yes, all her brothers have traditional female names but she and her sister have traditionally male ones.) None of the mysteries are particularly complicated but, to be honest, I think their simplicity and realism suited the book’s style.
A must for cosies are quirky characters, a pet of some sort, and a touch of the supernatural. I approved wholeheartedly of Coleman’s choices here. Ted’s sidekick is the fantastic (in name and personality) Miss Marple, a miniature schnauzer. Ted’s neighbour, Chantal, has visions, but they are used sparingly, making them more believable. Along with the back-to-front names, Coleman adds more quirkiness with Ted’s hobby of park mediaeval sword games.
Coleman was a writer for Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I’m sure you’d enjoy this book if you were a fan of that series. Although this is contemporary, it has a lot of similarities to that series, including its fast pacing, humour and sassy independent female characters.
4 out of 5
This book introduces us to Edwina (Ted) Bristol, a private detective based in Melbourne. When on the case of a routine infidelity, Ted stumbles across a major case of embezzlement, and then a murder, leaving Ted on the brink of success or, more concerningly, peril.
There are a couple of other mysteries, including one involving Ted’s sister, Bob, being taken for a ride by an internet scam artist. (Ted has eight siblings, and yes, all her brothers have traditional female names but she and her sister have traditionally male ones.) None of the mysteries are particularly complicated but, to be honest, I think their simplicity and realism suited the book’s style.
A must for cosies are quirky characters, a pet of some sort, and a touch of the supernatural. I approved wholeheartedly of Coleman’s choices here. Ted’s sidekick is the fantastic (in name and personality) Miss Marple, a miniature schnauzer. Ted’s neighbour, Chantal, has visions, but they are used sparingly, making them more believable. Along with the back-to-front names, Coleman adds more quirkiness with Ted’s hobby of park mediaeval sword games.
Coleman was a writer for Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries and I’m sure you’d enjoy this book if you were a fan of that series. Although this is contemporary, it has a lot of similarities to that series, including its fast pacing, humour and sassy independent female characters.
4 out of 5
February 12, 2023
✍️This is the story of Private Investigator Edwina "Ted" Bristol who mainly focuses on cheating husbands and missing dogs of Melbourne. When she discovers her sister Bob has fallen victim to a catfishing scam she sets out Miss Marple her Schnauzer to catch the fish. While working surveillance on a couple suspected of having an affair she comes across a plot to embezzle money. Will she crack the case before it's too late?
A SUPERLATIVE Cosy Crime, "A Routine Infidelity" had me Entertained, Gripped, Intrigued and Laughing Out Loud from beginning to end. I ADORED it!!
I was mesmerised by the eloquent writing style and savvy dialogue and you can certainly tell that the story was written by a Screenwriter by the Unfaltering and Proficient plot which encompassed all the elements that a good story could bring to life.
I relished the exceptional meticulousness of the writing style and the masterly storytelling. @elizabethcolemanauthor is one of the most talented writers I have encountered.
I was immersed in Ted's world of Sleuthing as she went on an action packed adventure investigating cheating Husbands and missing Chihuahuas as well as car chases, murder and embezzlement schemes. I was kept in suspense the whole time and I couldn't put it down. I couldn't fault it in any way.
I highly recommend!! I can't wait for the next book!!
This fabulous book will be released 31 January
A SUPERLATIVE Cosy Crime, "A Routine Infidelity" had me Entertained, Gripped, Intrigued and Laughing Out Loud from beginning to end. I ADORED it!!
I was mesmerised by the eloquent writing style and savvy dialogue and you can certainly tell that the story was written by a Screenwriter by the Unfaltering and Proficient plot which encompassed all the elements that a good story could bring to life.
I relished the exceptional meticulousness of the writing style and the masterly storytelling. @elizabethcolemanauthor is one of the most talented writers I have encountered.
I was immersed in Ted's world of Sleuthing as she went on an action packed adventure investigating cheating Husbands and missing Chihuahuas as well as car chases, murder and embezzlement schemes. I was kept in suspense the whole time and I couldn't put it down. I couldn't fault it in any way.
I highly recommend!! I can't wait for the next book!!
This fabulous book will be released 31 January
April 24, 2025
Where do I begin? Comparing this to Thursday Murder club is the biggest crime related to this read! I was so keen to read a cozy crime style of book with a murder mystery, but the murder seemed to be the last thing considered in this book. It wasn’t until about 50% of the way through the book I even knew what the ‘main crime’ was and even that wasn’t the whole focus of the book. There was so many storylines packed into such a short book and they were all different genres; family drama, fantasy role play, romance, politics, it gave me whiplash trying to keep up!
Additionally there was so much focus on unimportant story information that was trying to show accurate information then it was followed by so many inaccuracies when it comes to legalities. Yes it’s a story and it doesn’t have to be accurate, but the emphasis on the way crime in Australia drew my attention to it. I mean the fact that the ‘main criminal’ (if that’s what we even want to call her) tried to kill Ted’s sister and they didn’t even call the police was beyond wild to me. I thought the whole point was that Ted wanted real credit for her investigative work? Additionally the focus of that storyline ending being Ted and her sister writing positive reviews for each other’s businesses made me want to give up on this book altogether if I hadn’t already come so far.
I could go on about everything that made me mad about this book, but I’ll leave this review here and move onto my next read!
Additionally there was so much focus on unimportant story information that was trying to show accurate information then it was followed by so many inaccuracies when it comes to legalities. Yes it’s a story and it doesn’t have to be accurate, but the emphasis on the way crime in Australia drew my attention to it. I mean the fact that the ‘main criminal’ (if that’s what we even want to call her) tried to kill Ted’s sister and they didn’t even call the police was beyond wild to me. I thought the whole point was that Ted wanted real credit for her investigative work? Additionally the focus of that storyline ending being Ted and her sister writing positive reviews for each other’s businesses made me want to give up on this book altogether if I hadn’t already come so far.
I could go on about everything that made me mad about this book, but I’ll leave this review here and move onto my next read!
November 4, 2022
Edwina (“Ted”) Bristol is a gutsy, pint-sized Melbourne private investigator who, with her miniature schnauzer Miss Marple, usually exposes unfaithful spouses. When she overhears a conversation between a suspect husband and his girlfriend, she realises she’s uncovered a major fraud and finds herself involved in more sinister doings that lead to murder.
Ted isn’t afraid of challenges but can be cynical and some of her unresolved personal relationships underlie the plot. The other main characters are all well-drawn. There’s Ted’s gentle and trusting sister, Roberta (“Bob”), who seems to have been exposed to an online catfishing scam, and her neighbour Chantal, a New Age spiritual medium who Ted thinks is just another phoney until events prove otherwise. Vying for romantic attention are Joel, who’d like to be more than just a casual “friend with benefits”, and Ted’s “Swordcraft” combatant mate, the shambolic copper, Spike.
This is an easy, fast-paced and hugely entertaining read that has moments of wry humour but also some serious elements. The ending suggests this may be the beginning of a new series and I look forward to more exciting madcap adventures featuring the sassy Ted and her trusty sidekick Miss Marple.
(Many thanks to @betterreadingau previews for the ARC.)
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
Ted isn’t afraid of challenges but can be cynical and some of her unresolved personal relationships underlie the plot. The other main characters are all well-drawn. There’s Ted’s gentle and trusting sister, Roberta (“Bob”), who seems to have been exposed to an online catfishing scam, and her neighbour Chantal, a New Age spiritual medium who Ted thinks is just another phoney until events prove otherwise. Vying for romantic attention are Joel, who’d like to be more than just a casual “friend with benefits”, and Ted’s “Swordcraft” combatant mate, the shambolic copper, Spike.
This is an easy, fast-paced and hugely entertaining read that has moments of wry humour but also some serious elements. The ending suggests this may be the beginning of a new series and I look forward to more exciting madcap adventures featuring the sassy Ted and her trusty sidekick Miss Marple.
(Many thanks to @betterreadingau previews for the ARC.)
https://www.marinamaxwellauthor.com/b...
December 2, 2022
A Routine Infidelity
This plot has everything imaginable twisting and turning to the end.
We begin when Private Investigator Edwina (Ted) Bristol thinks she has satisfactorily solved the ‘routine infidelity’ but suddenly everything becomes complicated with embezzlement, murder and attempts on her life. During all this she is guilt-ridden by her mother’s death and her inability to hug her father.
Almost every female has a male name. Why? There really was no point apart from annoying me. I had to keep reminding myself “Who is Ted, Bob, Jackie, Chuck?”
Set in Melbourne, the plot involves online dating and catfishing, unresolved family tensions and guilt, fantasy wargames, returned Vets with PTSD, phoney psychics, doggy daycare, computer whiz-kids and embezzling from employers. Melbourne’s diverse population is represented with characters from Arabic, Japanese, Maori, Chinese, British, Indian and Schnauzer backgrounds.
Yes, ‘Miss Marple’ the Schnauzer is Ted’s sidekick.
Location names and the “casual” mention of RM Williams’ boots, Cheezels, silo murals and Missy Higgins adds authenticity and familiarity.
I enjoyed the book with and its clever interweaving of subplots but I recommend a notebook to keep track of characters’ annoying names and their connection.
Published by Pantara Press it is available from 31 January 2023.
This plot has everything imaginable twisting and turning to the end.
We begin when Private Investigator Edwina (Ted) Bristol thinks she has satisfactorily solved the ‘routine infidelity’ but suddenly everything becomes complicated with embezzlement, murder and attempts on her life. During all this she is guilt-ridden by her mother’s death and her inability to hug her father.
Almost every female has a male name. Why? There really was no point apart from annoying me. I had to keep reminding myself “Who is Ted, Bob, Jackie, Chuck?”
Set in Melbourne, the plot involves online dating and catfishing, unresolved family tensions and guilt, fantasy wargames, returned Vets with PTSD, phoney psychics, doggy daycare, computer whiz-kids and embezzling from employers. Melbourne’s diverse population is represented with characters from Arabic, Japanese, Maori, Chinese, British, Indian and Schnauzer backgrounds.
Yes, ‘Miss Marple’ the Schnauzer is Ted’s sidekick.
Location names and the “casual” mention of RM Williams’ boots, Cheezels, silo murals and Missy Higgins adds authenticity and familiarity.
I enjoyed the book with and its clever interweaving of subplots but I recommend a notebook to keep track of characters’ annoying names and their connection.
Published by Pantara Press it is available from 31 January 2023.
December 14, 2024
If you like cozy crime stories like Miss Marple or Miss Fisher's Muder Mysteries, you will love this one because it's written by the screenwriter of the latter!
Ted, alongside the assistance of her pet who ironically is named Miss Marple, is a kick ass PI in investigating infidelities of cheating partners. When her neighbour Chantel, who works as a medium, asks for her help to investigate her potentially cheating husband, it seems like a simple case (also very odd that a medium can't tell if her husband is cheating on her or not but ok). But Chantel's has a vision of Ted danger filled future, and soon a series of events unfold.
In addition, her current case has her investigating a workplace affair and a multimillion dollar theft. If only she could get the police involved and have her and her business taken seriously, instead of the Mickey Mouse civil investigation, they think she is running.
Meanwhile, Ted is battling tension in her family, not to mention her older sister getting involved in a possible online catfish saga.
Although the pace seems to dip slightly in the middle, and you may begin to wonder how or why all of the events are connected, everything comes together in the end.
Ted, alongside the assistance of her pet who ironically is named Miss Marple, is a kick ass PI in investigating infidelities of cheating partners. When her neighbour Chantel, who works as a medium, asks for her help to investigate her potentially cheating husband, it seems like a simple case (also very odd that a medium can't tell if her husband is cheating on her or not but ok). But Chantel's has a vision of Ted danger filled future, and soon a series of events unfold.
In addition, her current case has her investigating a workplace affair and a multimillion dollar theft. If only she could get the police involved and have her and her business taken seriously, instead of the Mickey Mouse civil investigation, they think she is running.
Meanwhile, Ted is battling tension in her family, not to mention her older sister getting involved in a possible online catfish saga.
Although the pace seems to dip slightly in the middle, and you may begin to wonder how or why all of the events are connected, everything comes together in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 11, 2023
A Routine Infidelity is a fun, easy and vivid read. I could clearly see all the characters in my head and appreciated the differing POVs to get more context and feeling. Ted’s character is so quirky and tough, but with an underlying vulnerability that makes you really care about her. I wasn’t expecting to read about grief, guilt and love while also traversing an enjoyable Whodunit, but I’m glad for it as it added so much more depth to the story and characters.
Ted and Bob’s relationship had me super emotional especially - we love women supporting women, especially when they’re sisters. They were so human with one another and it gave me all the feels.
There’s also plenty of humour and Australianism that made me feel at home. And the silent communication between Ted and her miniature Schnauzer Miss Marple was very relatable (I do it with Sam) and added a unique, light twist to both characters - I love it when animals are characterised in books!
All in all, this book is an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to (hopefully?) book 2!
Ted and Bob’s relationship had me super emotional especially - we love women supporting women, especially when they’re sisters. They were so human with one another and it gave me all the feels.
There’s also plenty of humour and Australianism that made me feel at home. And the silent communication between Ted and her miniature Schnauzer Miss Marple was very relatable (I do it with Sam) and added a unique, light twist to both characters - I love it when animals are characterised in books!
All in all, this book is an enjoyable read and I’m looking forward to (hopefully?) book 2!
September 4, 2023
3.5*
An entertaining crime caper where a simple investigation into a case of infidelity rapidly becomes much more dangerous; a little bit zany & a little bit serious.
I enjoyed much of this fast-paced story, but had trouble engaging with the leading lady, Ted Bristol, proprietor of Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI). I found Ted to be a fairly unlikable character at times; her mid-30s going on 15 attitude to people was very grating; immaturity not entirely excused by her personal trauma as a child. On the other hand, some of the supporting characters were very likable: Chantal Considine & Bob Bristol are very sympathetic characters, & worked very well to temper Ted's adolescent displays. Miss Marple, Ted's canine companion, is very useful in a fight, & as a sounding board.
Despite not relating well to Ted, there are signs that she may improve on knowing so I'd give her another try.
An entertaining crime caper where a simple investigation into a case of infidelity rapidly becomes much more dangerous; a little bit zany & a little bit serious.
I enjoyed much of this fast-paced story, but had trouble engaging with the leading lady, Ted Bristol, proprietor of Edwina Bristol Investigations (EBI). I found Ted to be a fairly unlikable character at times; her mid-30s going on 15 attitude to people was very grating; immaturity not entirely excused by her personal trauma as a child. On the other hand, some of the supporting characters were very likable: Chantal Considine & Bob Bristol are very sympathetic characters, & worked very well to temper Ted's adolescent displays. Miss Marple, Ted's canine companion, is very useful in a fight, & as a sounding board.
Despite not relating well to Ted, there are signs that she may improve on knowing so I'd give her another try.
March 26, 2023
In storygraph this is a 3.75, it's not quite a 4 but close enough for Goodreads.
Crime fighting pocket rocket with childhood trauma and a kickass dog named Miss Marple. If that sounds interesting to you, you'll enjoy it. I had a lot of fun and look forward to Ted's next adventure.
If you like PIs that at least try to co-ordinate or share their information with the police, this might not be for you. I personally like my crime procedurals with a police angle but Teddy is too self important for colluding with cops and it frustrated me a little bit.
This book is paced like an episode of tv, theres multiple crime plots and an overarching emotional development arch. I enjoyed it, but it is a bit more sporadic than others in the genre.
If you listen to the audio, be prepared for the Australian accent.
Crime fighting pocket rocket with childhood trauma and a kickass dog named Miss Marple. If that sounds interesting to you, you'll enjoy it. I had a lot of fun and look forward to Ted's next adventure.
If you like PIs that at least try to co-ordinate or share their information with the police, this might not be for you. I personally like my crime procedurals with a police angle but Teddy is too self important for colluding with cops and it frustrated me a little bit.
This book is paced like an episode of tv, theres multiple crime plots and an overarching emotional development arch. I enjoyed it, but it is a bit more sporadic than others in the genre.
If you listen to the audio, be prepared for the Australian accent.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2023
Well, that was fun! I adored Kerry Greenwood’s Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries and Corinna Chapman series’. Elizabeth Coleman’s book caught my eye as I was browsing at the library - with a recommendation from Kerry Greenwood, herself! I then discovered that Elizabeth Coleman had also written for both Fisher tv series, so I had to give it a go.
It was light, fast paced, with the excitement of a Channel 10 drama series like The Secret Life of Us. I loved that it was set in Melbourne, post COVID lock downs, and in so many familiar locations.
The characters were fantastic and engaging. So many twists and turns and intrigues. There were even references to Miss Fisher, Buffy, and Bluey. It really felt like it might have been written just for me - I was definitely the target audience.
It was a rather enjoyable read.
It was light, fast paced, with the excitement of a Channel 10 drama series like The Secret Life of Us. I loved that it was set in Melbourne, post COVID lock downs, and in so many familiar locations.
The characters were fantastic and engaging. So many twists and turns and intrigues. There were even references to Miss Fisher, Buffy, and Bluey. It really felt like it might have been written just for me - I was definitely the target audience.
It was a rather enjoyable read.
February 1, 2025
I am so annoyed at myself! I wish I’d read this first instead of jumping right into ‘A dance with murder’.
Who reads a sequel first, gah 🤦♀️
Here is the back story and character development I initially missed.
Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol is a kick ass PI, fiercely independent and somewhat quirky.
I pictured her as Lisbeth Salander minus the Tatts and piercings and with a penchant for Swordcraft.
This is a cosy crime where we follow multiple storyline’s- an embezzlement, an online catfishing scam, multiple ‘routine’ infidelities.
But it’s also a story about letting down your guard and facing up to past truths.
And of course, Ted has some beautiful supporting cast including her schnauzer Miss Marple, her sister Bob and the spunky Spike Tereiti.
I really enjoyed getting lost in this book and am looking forward to the next instalment!
Who reads a sequel first, gah 🤦♀️
Here is the back story and character development I initially missed.
Edwina ‘Ted’ Bristol is a kick ass PI, fiercely independent and somewhat quirky.
I pictured her as Lisbeth Salander minus the Tatts and piercings and with a penchant for Swordcraft.
This is a cosy crime where we follow multiple storyline’s- an embezzlement, an online catfishing scam, multiple ‘routine’ infidelities.
But it’s also a story about letting down your guard and facing up to past truths.
And of course, Ted has some beautiful supporting cast including her schnauzer Miss Marple, her sister Bob and the spunky Spike Tereiti.
I really enjoyed getting lost in this book and am looking forward to the next instalment!
November 19, 2022
A routine infidelity by Elizabeth Coleman
This novel had me hooked by page 20. It was a perfect blend of love interest, intrigue and family tension. The carefully measured pace worked perfectly with sections of suspense long enough to create tension but resolved quickly enough to keep the pace flowing. The main characters of the book were very likable and engaging and the unorthodox use of gender neutral family names added quirkiness and wit. Even the secondary characters were well rounded and compelling. The non-verbal interaction with Miss Marple the miniature schnauzer was delightful. I was excited by the teaser of follow-up novel at the conclusion of the story. I can’t wait to be able to recommend this book to all and sundry next year. A cracker of a novel – Brilliant!
This novel had me hooked by page 20. It was a perfect blend of love interest, intrigue and family tension. The carefully measured pace worked perfectly with sections of suspense long enough to create tension but resolved quickly enough to keep the pace flowing. The main characters of the book were very likable and engaging and the unorthodox use of gender neutral family names added quirkiness and wit. Even the secondary characters were well rounded and compelling. The non-verbal interaction with Miss Marple the miniature schnauzer was delightful. I was excited by the teaser of follow-up novel at the conclusion of the story. I can’t wait to be able to recommend this book to all and sundry next year. A cracker of a novel – Brilliant!
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