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Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery #5
Antique Tragedy
A British Cozy Murder Mystery with a Female Amateur Sleuth
An antique fair. A dead stallholder. Can an amateur sleuth both bag a bargain and identify a killer? Trainee antique expert, Dotty Sayers, is feeling vulnerable after being framed for art trafficking by a trusted friend. She welcomes the distraction of visiting a vintage sale but is alarmed when an exhibitor is found dead. The police’s resources are stretched when a valuable antiquity is stolen at the same event. As Dotty conducts her own enquiries, this amateur detective can’t help thinking there is more at stake than one man’s death.
Can Dotty scratch off the varnish and expose the truth?
Antique Tragedy is the fifth book in the engaging Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. If you like puzzling mysteries, real-life characters and a charming British setting then you’ll be enthralled by Victoria Tait’s page-turning whodunit.
Buy Antique Tragedy and discover a rare treasure today.
An antique fair. A dead stallholder. Can an amateur sleuth both bag a bargain and identify a killer? Trainee antique expert, Dotty Sayers, is feeling vulnerable after being framed for art trafficking by a trusted friend. She welcomes the distraction of visiting a vintage sale but is alarmed when an exhibitor is found dead. The police’s resources are stretched when a valuable antiquity is stolen at the same event. As Dotty conducts her own enquiries, this amateur detective can’t help thinking there is more at stake than one man’s death.
Can Dotty scratch off the varnish and expose the truth?
Antique Tragedy is the fifth book in the engaging Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. If you like puzzling mysteries, real-life characters and a charming British setting then you’ll be enthralled by Victoria Tait’s page-turning whodunit.
Buy Antique Tragedy and discover a rare treasure today.
230 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 26, 2022
499 people are currently reading
312 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Tait
51 books329 followersHi, would you like to download Hour is Come, the FREE prequel to my Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series?
If so visit https://bookfunnel.victoriatait.com/s... or visit my website https://www.victoriatait.com
I was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, and never expected to travel the world. I've drawn on my life’s experiences of following my military husband, and a love of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Murder She Wrote, to write British-based cozy mysteries.
My determined and hard-working female sleuths are joined by colourful but realistic teams of helpers, and my settings are vivid and evocative. As you’re compelled to keep turning the pages, you’ll be irresistibly drawn into a world of intrigue, surprises, and humour, as well as a delectable helping of mystery, because tea and intrigue are a perfect blend.
If so visit https://bookfunnel.victoriatait.com/s... or visit my website https://www.victoriatait.com
I was born and raised in Yorkshire, England, and never expected to travel the world. I've drawn on my life’s experiences of following my military husband, and a love of Agatha Christie, Dorothy L. Sayers, and Murder She Wrote, to write British-based cozy mysteries.
My determined and hard-working female sleuths are joined by colourful but realistic teams of helpers, and my settings are vivid and evocative. As you’re compelled to keep turning the pages, you’ll be irresistibly drawn into a world of intrigue, surprises, and humour, as well as a delectable helping of mystery, because tea and intrigue are a perfect blend.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
December 30, 2022
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Back to work after being framed for art trafficking by someone she trusted, antique expert trainee, Dotty Sayers is excited to keep learning more about antiques by attending a vintage sale. To make things fun her friend Keya goes along. But before the day is over Keya is pushed into service when one of the exhibitors is found dead. In a crime that may be related a valuable copper jug was stolen from another exhibitor’s booth. As Dotty tries to put clues together, she attends another event with her police friends tagging along, and again Dotty finds a dead body. Can she appraise all the evidence and find who is killing off people at the vintage sales? Or will she find herself in peril?
Dotty continues to surprise me as she grows more independent in each story. What happened in the previous book shook her but she didn’t let it hold her back for long. I love the way her friendship with Sergeant Keya Varma has evolved. They spend a lot of time together and have fun though they keep finding dead bodies. All the while, Beanie is adjusting to Cliff being in a care home but his struggles still affect her greatly. The author continues to develop all her characters in realistic and genuine ways. It is not hard to identify with at least one of them.
Dotty is turning into quite an amateur sleuth. She is very observant and sometimes it takes her some time to pull a memory she needs forward but she doesn’t give up. In this story, there are several suspects, some of who seem to have great alibis but you can tell she loves trying to find things to poke holes in those alibis even if she has to do some fancy footwork to get there. She does find herself in some hot water before all the pieces come together.
What was a little puzzling was that all the mysteries were not solved by the final page. I tried desperately to make my Kindle find more pages. Ms. Tait leaves us with several questions and this first line of the next book’s synopsis:
A victim who dies twice. A web of deceit. With the help of her friends, can an amateur sleuth crack the case, or will she pay the ultimate price?
Priceless Betrayal is scheduled to be released on March 24, 2023!
Antique Tragedy kept me entertained from beginning to end and left me with great anticipation for the next installment of the Dotty Sayers Antique Mysteries. The series is best read in order so if this is a new series for you I recommend starting the new year right with Fake Death, and continuing on so that you are all set when Priceless Betrayal is ready to be delivered to your device.
Back to work after being framed for art trafficking by someone she trusted, antique expert trainee, Dotty Sayers is excited to keep learning more about antiques by attending a vintage sale. To make things fun her friend Keya goes along. But before the day is over Keya is pushed into service when one of the exhibitors is found dead. In a crime that may be related a valuable copper jug was stolen from another exhibitor’s booth. As Dotty tries to put clues together, she attends another event with her police friends tagging along, and again Dotty finds a dead body. Can she appraise all the evidence and find who is killing off people at the vintage sales? Or will she find herself in peril?
Dotty continues to surprise me as she grows more independent in each story. What happened in the previous book shook her but she didn’t let it hold her back for long. I love the way her friendship with Sergeant Keya Varma has evolved. They spend a lot of time together and have fun though they keep finding dead bodies. All the while, Beanie is adjusting to Cliff being in a care home but his struggles still affect her greatly. The author continues to develop all her characters in realistic and genuine ways. It is not hard to identify with at least one of them.
Dotty is turning into quite an amateur sleuth. She is very observant and sometimes it takes her some time to pull a memory she needs forward but she doesn’t give up. In this story, there are several suspects, some of who seem to have great alibis but you can tell she loves trying to find things to poke holes in those alibis even if she has to do some fancy footwork to get there. She does find herself in some hot water before all the pieces come together.
What was a little puzzling was that all the mysteries were not solved by the final page. I tried desperately to make my Kindle find more pages. Ms. Tait leaves us with several questions and this first line of the next book’s synopsis:
A victim who dies twice. A web of deceit. With the help of her friends, can an amateur sleuth crack the case, or will she pay the ultimate price?
Priceless Betrayal is scheduled to be released on March 24, 2023!
Antique Tragedy kept me entertained from beginning to end and left me with great anticipation for the next installment of the Dotty Sayers Antique Mysteries. The series is best read in order so if this is a new series for you I recommend starting the new year right with Fake Death, and continuing on so that you are all set when Priceless Betrayal is ready to be delivered to your device.
December 12, 2022
Another great Dotty Sayers outing.
In this, the 5th full length Dotty Sayers mystery, Dotty is still reeling a bit from Gilmore's betrayal. She is continuing to learn the art, antique and auction world. She is taking further education in art and attending local market sales.
She meets some colorful characters at the fairs as well as through David Rook.
At a fair with her friend Keya they witness a heated exchange with a stallholder who is later found murdered. At the same time a valuable copper jug goes missing. Are the two crimes related?
The investigations both stall as suspects get alibis and leads don't pan out.
Then while attending another local fair with her police friends another murder occurs.
Dotty and her friends have multiple crimes to solve and there is the questions that have been dogging Dotty for a while now that still haven't been resolved.
A great series that keeps you guessing and looking forward to more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
In this, the 5th full length Dotty Sayers mystery, Dotty is still reeling a bit from Gilmore's betrayal. She is continuing to learn the art, antique and auction world. She is taking further education in art and attending local market sales.
She meets some colorful characters at the fairs as well as through David Rook.
At a fair with her friend Keya they witness a heated exchange with a stallholder who is later found murdered. At the same time a valuable copper jug goes missing. Are the two crimes related?
The investigations both stall as suspects get alibis and leads don't pan out.
Then while attending another local fair with her police friends another murder occurs.
Dotty and her friends have multiple crimes to solve and there is the questions that have been dogging Dotty for a while now that still haven't been resolved.
A great series that keeps you guessing and looking forward to more.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 9, 2022
I just love this series!
It's such fun reading about the changes taking place in Dotty's life. She started out as this meek and mild, even naive young widow. Now she's into fashion, learning all about antiques and getting so much more confident and outgoing.
The other regular characters in this series are likeable and begin to feel almost like your own family.
I highly recommend reading these in order so you too can enjoy the changes in all the characters in this series. Plus you get to learn about antiques as well!
It's such fun reading about the changes taking place in Dotty's life. She started out as this meek and mild, even naive young widow. Now she's into fashion, learning all about antiques and getting so much more confident and outgoing.
The other regular characters in this series are likeable and begin to feel almost like your own family.
I highly recommend reading these in order so you too can enjoy the changes in all the characters in this series. Plus you get to learn about antiques as well!
December 29, 2022
Antique Tragedy Earns 5+/5 Copper Jugs … “Couldn’t Put Down” Gem!
It’s back to work, and Dotty Sayers has been taken under everyone’s wing at Akeman’s Antiques. She’s invited to witness priceless stolen artifacts being confiscated by authorities along with various collusive and questionable business practices among sellers and buyers at local antique fairs, and with two friends directly involved, she also gets insights into the investigation into the dark side of the antique’s trade by Gloucestershire’s Rural Heritage and Wildlife Unit. But, when Dotty tags along with her friend Sergeant Keya, in plain clothes so as not to draw attention, to explore the antique fair at the Charbury Castle Hotel, they get more than expected. They observe arguments and verbal reprimands, and eavesdrop on conversations ‘bout the plight of “Roger,” a dealer of questionable repute. But, the news “Roger” has been found dead is something Dotty hoped to avoid. But, a murder or two and a few missing items may end up being the least of Dotty’s worries.
Victoria Tait has captured the top of my “best read” list with the fifth book to her Dotty Sayer Antique Mystery series with another engaging tale of murder along with details on antiques, tricks of the trade, and law enforcement activity, illustrating a serious level of research, along with a diverse, multi-generational cast of characters and continued revelations on an underlying mystery. The first of several crimes had intriguing motives to consider with a disgruntled wife and girlfriend and scruples-challenged sellers and threatening buyers at the top of the list. But with a further search, it becomes obvious the victim had his own list of victims of his own business practices needing to be scrutinized. Efforts to narrow down the suspect list is not an easy task, but each page leads to another twist, another obstacle, another dead body, another shocking cliffhanger, and another “couldn’t put down” experience.
This fifth book is the perfect length to fill in those wintery nights. Victoria weaves around the complex murder mystery, along with thefts, cons, and conspiracies, a delightful life in the Cotswolds: Sunday lunches and afternoon tea at the cookery school and managing Dotty’s British Blue cat Earl Grey and the heartbreak of a love one’s dementia. There’s entertaining foodie talk, characters reflecting on their hopes and dreams, meeting new people, getting entangled in lots of complaints, and lots of topics for a rousing book club discussion. It’s all entertaining and so full of realism you almost feel a part of the drama. All the talk about bacon sandwiches had me picking up some thick-cut bacon, making more than a few “butty” treats, and washing “em down with a pot of breakfast tea.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
It’s back to work, and Dotty Sayers has been taken under everyone’s wing at Akeman’s Antiques. She’s invited to witness priceless stolen artifacts being confiscated by authorities along with various collusive and questionable business practices among sellers and buyers at local antique fairs, and with two friends directly involved, she also gets insights into the investigation into the dark side of the antique’s trade by Gloucestershire’s Rural Heritage and Wildlife Unit. But, when Dotty tags along with her friend Sergeant Keya, in plain clothes so as not to draw attention, to explore the antique fair at the Charbury Castle Hotel, they get more than expected. They observe arguments and verbal reprimands, and eavesdrop on conversations ‘bout the plight of “Roger,” a dealer of questionable repute. But, the news “Roger” has been found dead is something Dotty hoped to avoid. But, a murder or two and a few missing items may end up being the least of Dotty’s worries.
Victoria Tait has captured the top of my “best read” list with the fifth book to her Dotty Sayer Antique Mystery series with another engaging tale of murder along with details on antiques, tricks of the trade, and law enforcement activity, illustrating a serious level of research, along with a diverse, multi-generational cast of characters and continued revelations on an underlying mystery. The first of several crimes had intriguing motives to consider with a disgruntled wife and girlfriend and scruples-challenged sellers and threatening buyers at the top of the list. But with a further search, it becomes obvious the victim had his own list of victims of his own business practices needing to be scrutinized. Efforts to narrow down the suspect list is not an easy task, but each page leads to another twist, another obstacle, another dead body, another shocking cliffhanger, and another “couldn’t put down” experience.
This fifth book is the perfect length to fill in those wintery nights. Victoria weaves around the complex murder mystery, along with thefts, cons, and conspiracies, a delightful life in the Cotswolds: Sunday lunches and afternoon tea at the cookery school and managing Dotty’s British Blue cat Earl Grey and the heartbreak of a love one’s dementia. There’s entertaining foodie talk, characters reflecting on their hopes and dreams, meeting new people, getting entangled in lots of complaints, and lots of topics for a rousing book club discussion. It’s all entertaining and so full of realism you almost feel a part of the drama. All the talk about bacon sandwiches had me picking up some thick-cut bacon, making more than a few “butty” treats, and washing “em down with a pot of breakfast tea.
Disclosure: I received an ARC from the author. My review is voluntary with honest insights and comments.
December 20, 2022
Amateur sleuth, Dotty Sayers is developing quite nicely as an expert on antiques. She’s been employed by Akeman’s Antiques since her military husband died a short time ago. Her knowledge of valuable antiques, even antiquities, is growing from experience and the classes she’s taken. But her knowledge about men involved with priceless antiques is sadly lacking.
In book four, her heart (and confidence) was broken by a man that she thought loved her. In this book, she is slowly recovering (thank goodness) and when a stall owner at an Antiques Fair is murdered, her naturally sharp brain kicks in. She recalls details that even her friend Keya, a Policewoman on the scene, does not remember. But there is a man in this story, one of two, actually (read carefully to see if you can pick the right one) who deceives Dotty again. Oh no!!
I love how Dotty connects tiny things (and how the author, Victoria Tait, slyly writes in those things for her to find. Yes, I often miss them, and have to page back. Then, after an ah-HA! moment I continue on). There are plenty of possible culprits in this book to choose from as the murderer, so you must be clever and watch the details.
Antique Tragedy is unique in that the author (and Dotty Sayers) leave a small murder UNSOLVED at the end!! How can this be? Has our favorite sleuth been knocked about too many times? Will this small murder of an insignificant woman go unsolved? Unpunished? Dotty!!!
Me thinks this is another sly plot twist that will grow into something massive in the sixth (of six) book in the series. Will “E.” get her due? Will the man who deceived Dotty be caught? Will Keya and Officer “Onion” start a Tea shoppe together (just kidding)? This is a clever book, one that surely whets your appetite for a lot more of Dotty L. Sayers!
And yes, all the other characters are alive and well too, including cats, hogs, and cows!
FIVE STARS
In book four, her heart (and confidence) was broken by a man that she thought loved her. In this book, she is slowly recovering (thank goodness) and when a stall owner at an Antiques Fair is murdered, her naturally sharp brain kicks in. She recalls details that even her friend Keya, a Policewoman on the scene, does not remember. But there is a man in this story, one of two, actually (read carefully to see if you can pick the right one) who deceives Dotty again. Oh no!!
I love how Dotty connects tiny things (and how the author, Victoria Tait, slyly writes in those things for her to find. Yes, I often miss them, and have to page back. Then, after an ah-HA! moment I continue on). There are plenty of possible culprits in this book to choose from as the murderer, so you must be clever and watch the details.
Antique Tragedy is unique in that the author (and Dotty Sayers) leave a small murder UNSOLVED at the end!! How can this be? Has our favorite sleuth been knocked about too many times? Will this small murder of an insignificant woman go unsolved? Unpunished? Dotty!!!
Me thinks this is another sly plot twist that will grow into something massive in the sixth (of six) book in the series. Will “E.” get her due? Will the man who deceived Dotty be caught? Will Keya and Officer “Onion” start a Tea shoppe together (just kidding)? This is a clever book, one that surely whets your appetite for a lot more of Dotty L. Sayers!
And yes, all the other characters are alive and well too, including cats, hogs, and cows!
FIVE STARS
December 23, 2022
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I picked this book up for review, I realized, I have enough time to read all the other books before that as well, so this review is not only about this particular book but the entire series so far.
In general, I like the series and it certainly improved with time. In the first books, I could forsee everything that would happen and sometimes even be frustrated, because it would need 10 more chapters, until it actually happened. Also, some repetitive themes were overdone, but tamed down significantly (e.g. Keya's clumsiness, in the first books; she practically couldn't move without kicking something down.)
But my major complaint is about the characters. At some point in the books, there was a kiss and I realized I don't care for the characters at all. I don't have a picture for any of them in my head and the fact, that half of them are always anounced with their family name made it worse, because it enhanced the feeling of distance and know knowing them. That has improved in this book. I still don't have a good feeling for the characters, but it's getting slowly better. Most of the chars are reduced to one or two characteristics, which are repeated in each book, and I don't even have a connection to the main char.
I absolutely like the stories and there is clearly a character development, especially since the end of book 4. Newly introduced characters are fun and I would say, for me, Edith and Ethel have more substance, than someone like George or even Gilly.
As for this book in particular, I thought the resolution of the first murder was very weak. It suddenly came to her and then the quick gathering of half-assed evidence. At least it's acknowledged and the police struggled with physical evidence. But the rest around it was interesting and we are left with unsolved questions and cases for the first time in this series.
It's hard, to write a cozy mystery series in which a normal person suddenly sees deaths left and right, so sometimes they tend to get a bit repetitive or forced, but that's the nature of this genre. But since the cases are mostly nicely explained and interesting to read, I don't mind and certainly will continue reading the series.
When I picked this book up for review, I realized, I have enough time to read all the other books before that as well, so this review is not only about this particular book but the entire series so far.
In general, I like the series and it certainly improved with time. In the first books, I could forsee everything that would happen and sometimes even be frustrated, because it would need 10 more chapters, until it actually happened. Also, some repetitive themes were overdone, but tamed down significantly (e.g. Keya's clumsiness, in the first books; she practically couldn't move without kicking something down.)
But my major complaint is about the characters. At some point in the books, there was a kiss and I realized I don't care for the characters at all. I don't have a picture for any of them in my head and the fact, that half of them are always anounced with their family name made it worse, because it enhanced the feeling of distance and know knowing them. That has improved in this book. I still don't have a good feeling for the characters, but it's getting slowly better. Most of the chars are reduced to one or two characteristics, which are repeated in each book, and I don't even have a connection to the main char.
I absolutely like the stories and there is clearly a character development, especially since the end of book 4. Newly introduced characters are fun and I would say, for me, Edith and Ethel have more substance, than someone like George or even Gilly.
As for this book in particular, I thought the resolution of the first murder was very weak. It suddenly came to her and then the quick gathering of half-assed evidence. At least it's acknowledged and the police struggled with physical evidence. But the rest around it was interesting and we are left with unsolved questions and cases for the first time in this series.
It's hard, to write a cozy mystery series in which a normal person suddenly sees deaths left and right, so sometimes they tend to get a bit repetitive or forced, but that's the nature of this genre. But since the cases are mostly nicely explained and interesting to read, I don't mind and certainly will continue reading the series.
January 7, 2023
Antique Tragedy is the fifth book in the delightful Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series. It's filled with my favorite things: a small British village in the Cotswolds, characters who are well-developed and who don't stay stagnant as the books progress, quirky characters, and well-written mysteries.
This latest book has Dotty smack dab in the middle of two murder mysteries, and only one is solved in this book. I like to know this about a book when I am going to read it, so just FYI, you'll not get all the answers here! Though you could read these books as stand-alone books, I don't recommend doing that. You'll get so much more enjoyment by getting to know the characters by starting with book one. In fact, after I read the first book, I pre-ordered the 2nd and 3rd, and I've pre-ordered each book since!
I enjoyed Antique Tragedy very much and highly recommend them to cozy mystery fans!
This latest book has Dotty smack dab in the middle of two murder mysteries, and only one is solved in this book. I like to know this about a book when I am going to read it, so just FYI, you'll not get all the answers here! Though you could read these books as stand-alone books, I don't recommend doing that. You'll get so much more enjoyment by getting to know the characters by starting with book one. In fact, after I read the first book, I pre-ordered the 2nd and 3rd, and I've pre-ordered each book since!
I enjoyed Antique Tragedy very much and highly recommend them to cozy mystery fans!
December 18, 2022
Trainee antique expert Dotty is feeling vulnerable after being framed for art trafficking by a trusted friend. She welcomes the vintage sale as a distraction but unfortunately at the exhibition Roger is found dead. Valuable antiques are stolen at this event and Dotty conducts her own enquiries .There seems to be more at stake than one death. Her friend sergeant Keya Verma is there and her aunt Beanie are there to help her. There were a lot of people who had a bone to pick with Roger. On the day of the antique fair.There is another murder and this time it is Ethel .There is a lot of mystery and mayhem. A very exciting read. I am on the ARC term and I leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
December 28, 2022
As Victoria Tait has proven before and continues to, is that she is one of the high caliber cozey mystery murder writers and it's always made this series a true classy series as is the latest " Antique Tragedy. " The vibrant, colorful and quirky array of characters will draw you in wanting to get to know them. The intriguing and challenging mystery enticing you further while the plot has you turning page after page with it's dramatic day to day drama.Engaging twists and bumps of mayhem and the unexpected climatic conclusion wouldn't let go from start to finish ,there was know putting it down once started. It is that good. Acquire " Antique Tragedy " A British Cozey Murder Mystery Book Five. Kat.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 29, 2024
This book was merely OK. Descriptions seemed overly drawn out and there were times when I could predict what the next phrase would be. It wasn’t awful but it also wasn’t to my taste at all, and I tend to like cozy mysteries for light reading. Not book I’d recommend, even though I enjoy British mysteries.
April 30, 2024
Don't waste your time.
I found this book to be choppy & erratic. Having not read book one in the series, I couldn't figure out who was originally murdered, yet there were constant references to said murder. I did not like this book. The ending just stopped basically in mid thought.
I found this book to be choppy & erratic. Having not read book one in the series, I couldn't figure out who was originally murdered, yet there were constant references to said murder. I did not like this book. The ending just stopped basically in mid thought.
December 17, 2022
Victoria does it again. She is the queen of description. When she describes their surroundings, You actually feel like you are there. Her characters are amazing. The story line keeps you invested and you can't put it down. A great and fun read. I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author from Book funnel. My review is my honest option. You will love her books and won't be able to stop at just one.
December 18, 2022
I received an advance copy of this book free and my review is my wording and voluntary This series hits all the cozy boxes for me ,endearing characters great plot and subplots it’s a standalone book but continues on to a next in series and it’s worth reading hour is come ,a prequel of this series to get Dotty and her background
December 16, 2022
Another very enjoyable ready by Victoria Tait. I often like to read these books between the darker crime novels I usually read. The characters are mostly so nice to read about and see develop.
I enjoyed the various members of the police being in more social situations.
Some hints of a new romance for Dotty were promising.
I wasn't expecting a cliffhanger ending in this series and I can't wait for the next book to be released!
I enjoyed the various members of the police being in more social situations.
Some hints of a new romance for Dotty were promising.
I wasn't expecting a cliffhanger ending in this series and I can't wait for the next book to be released!
December 18, 2022
I love this series. The setting, the lovable characters and murder, great reading. Reading this series has been so heart warming and enjoyable. The characters just keep growing and the Plots better and better. Victoria Tait is a great writer who keeps a story tight and exciting, never a dull moment. Highly recommend.
December 21, 2022
Antique Tragedy: A British Cozy Murder Mystery with a Female Amateur Sleuth is Book 5 of A Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery by Victoria Tait. Another winner in this cute series about an Antiques Auction House and the people who work there and their circle of friends. I love hearing about the antiques and everyone around the business. Edith and Ethel are such a cute pair. Dotty has lots of ups and downs in this murder mystery and leaves you guessing what will happen to her. This is so much fun to read and makes you feel like you are right there with Dotty investigating the murders. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout.
November 30, 2023
In the last book Dotty was betrayed by Gilmore, a man she thought she might be able to have a relationship with. Now she's at a loss, she can't concentrate, even though she's giving it her best shot. At David, George and Gilly's request she takes off the rest of the week to finish her the Appreciation Modern Art Short Course through Oxford University.
On Thursday David invites her along as he looks at some things that have come into question at customs for the British Museum. He's not happy that the items came to their attention as they probably won't make it back to where they belong for quite a while, if ever.
She finishes her dissertation on Friday evening and Saturday and is looking forward to the antique fair at the Bath Showground with David. When they arrive, they run into Didier Vogt who Dotty suspected of being involved with counterfeit furniture scam but couldn't prove it.
As they go through the fair David points out some tricksters that are present, the first is Edith and Ethel who select an item to tout to themselves to get an interested buyer to purchase it at a specific price, then they collect a cut from the dealer. Next David points out a young man who buys a book, then sells it to another dealer in this case for twice what he paid.
As they browse further, David examines a couple of things but doesn't seem interested. They then head to the cafe where David introduces her to a couple of his associates and clients. She browses some more while he attends to some business. Nothing really catches her eye, but she does overhear there will be a fair in Cotswold and decides to ask Keya if she'd like to go with her.
Keya's boss Chief Inspector Ringrose decides she should consider it a working day as it falls under their purview. It also means she can expense the tickets and lunch.
The fair is being held at the Charlbury Castle Hotel, if you've been reading this series, you'll recognize that's where the Antique Tour was filmed in a previous book. This is an entirely different setup with many vendors. Dotty recognizes a booth from the Bath fair and witnesses a confrontation between the woman tending it and Roger, the stall owner's wife. Later they see Roger refuse to sell or buy from Billy.
While they're eating lunch, Edith and Ethel come in and announce that Roger is dead. His wife shows up and joins her friends, and apparently not knowing of his demise, Keya and Dotty escort her to the scene.
Inspector Evans tells them to wander around and listen to see if anyone had a grudge against the deceased. What they do find is the girlfriend, in the bar. After she downs a couple of drinks they bring her to where the Inspector and Sargeant Unwin are questioning folks. Unwin is glad to see her as he was about to go looking for her, and then a vendor starts demanding the police look for a thief.
We meet a newcomer in this book, a reporter, Ozzie Winters. She's looking to get ahead as she's young and thinks nothing of invading someone's privacy.
There's certainly plenty of twists in this one and for the first time we get a second body and that one doesn't get solved in this book. It's a bit of a cliffhanger, but not too bad since the next book is already out.
Already reading to find out whodunit.
On Thursday David invites her along as he looks at some things that have come into question at customs for the British Museum. He's not happy that the items came to their attention as they probably won't make it back to where they belong for quite a while, if ever.
She finishes her dissertation on Friday evening and Saturday and is looking forward to the antique fair at the Bath Showground with David. When they arrive, they run into Didier Vogt who Dotty suspected of being involved with counterfeit furniture scam but couldn't prove it.
As they go through the fair David points out some tricksters that are present, the first is Edith and Ethel who select an item to tout to themselves to get an interested buyer to purchase it at a specific price, then they collect a cut from the dealer. Next David points out a young man who buys a book, then sells it to another dealer in this case for twice what he paid.
As they browse further, David examines a couple of things but doesn't seem interested. They then head to the cafe where David introduces her to a couple of his associates and clients. She browses some more while he attends to some business. Nothing really catches her eye, but she does overhear there will be a fair in Cotswold and decides to ask Keya if she'd like to go with her.
Keya's boss Chief Inspector Ringrose decides she should consider it a working day as it falls under their purview. It also means she can expense the tickets and lunch.
The fair is being held at the Charlbury Castle Hotel, if you've been reading this series, you'll recognize that's where the Antique Tour was filmed in a previous book. This is an entirely different setup with many vendors. Dotty recognizes a booth from the Bath fair and witnesses a confrontation between the woman tending it and Roger, the stall owner's wife. Later they see Roger refuse to sell or buy from Billy.
While they're eating lunch, Edith and Ethel come in and announce that Roger is dead. His wife shows up and joins her friends, and apparently not knowing of his demise, Keya and Dotty escort her to the scene.
Inspector Evans tells them to wander around and listen to see if anyone had a grudge against the deceased. What they do find is the girlfriend, in the bar. After she downs a couple of drinks they bring her to where the Inspector and Sargeant Unwin are questioning folks. Unwin is glad to see her as he was about to go looking for her, and then a vendor starts demanding the police look for a thief.
We meet a newcomer in this book, a reporter, Ozzie Winters. She's looking to get ahead as she's young and thinks nothing of invading someone's privacy.
There's certainly plenty of twists in this one and for the first time we get a second body and that one doesn't get solved in this book. It's a bit of a cliffhanger, but not too bad since the next book is already out.
Already reading to find out whodunit.
December 22, 2022
Dotty is still reeling a bit from the shocking betrayal of Gilmore. Her friends and coworkers are all a bit concerned about her. In an effort to distract her David Rook invites her to go with him to an antique fair. There she meets some friends of his who are interested in Arabic artifacts. Coincidentally David is called in to view and assess a capture by British customs which turns out to be some very valuable Arabic artifacts. Dotty also is visiting a fair with Keya when a murder and a theft occur. The victim was also at the fair she attended with David. Arabic artifacts seem to be popular and appearing everywhere and David is action a bit off. Then there’s another murder this time Ethel one of a duo of older ladies who helped hyped shall we say some of the antiques in the stalls. To round out the awful Dotty is once again arrested for smuggling. Just when she and Sergeant Unwin, Nick had been making strides in their friendship.
Jam packed with action and a bit of a cliffhanger as one of the murders remains unsolved. There is something seriously rotten going on around Dotty and while she may be naïve for trusting so easily shame on whoever it is who’s taking advantage. Can’t wait to see how this gets worked out. I really enjoy this series there’s plots and subplots and tons of action behind the scenes that make for confounding and entertaining mystery reads. Dotty is a sweetheart and her friends and found family are lovely. A wonderful book to cozy up with on a cold winters night or any night for that matter!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jam packed with action and a bit of a cliffhanger as one of the murders remains unsolved. There is something seriously rotten going on around Dotty and while she may be naïve for trusting so easily shame on whoever it is who’s taking advantage. Can’t wait to see how this gets worked out. I really enjoy this series there’s plots and subplots and tons of action behind the scenes that make for confounding and entertaining mystery reads. Dotty is a sweetheart and her friends and found family are lovely. A wonderful book to cozy up with on a cold winters night or any night for that matter!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 24, 2023
Dotty does it again!
This is the fifth outing for the cunningly named Dotty Sayers. I have read (and cannot unread) the four previous tales. I think this would work as a standalone, but it would be a shame if you started the series here. In my opinion it is the weakest volume and you would not appreciate the development of our heroine from Army wife to amateur sleuth working in an antiques auction house with a circle of friends and allies.
It is set in the Cotswolds of England with country houses and hotels in the mix. The author has increased the amount of description compared to earlier volumes, with colourful inclusions almost everywhere.
My rating is reduced because only two thirds of the book is devoted to a complete, cosy crime story. That plot was easy to solve and although it was satisfying to be proved correct, the resolution was insubstantial. The last part of the book is devoted to setting up the next book in the series and there is a cliff-hanger ending. I found this frustrating as well as disappointing as the incident triggering our heroine's peril is identical in nature to a previous book. I feel this is inconsistent with the character development and maturity the heroine shows in other aspects. I doubt she would fall for the same trick twice - and so soon. Despite my criticisms, it is an interesting, entertaining read. It is not up to this author's usual standard, however.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the fifth outing for the cunningly named Dotty Sayers. I have read (and cannot unread) the four previous tales. I think this would work as a standalone, but it would be a shame if you started the series here. In my opinion it is the weakest volume and you would not appreciate the development of our heroine from Army wife to amateur sleuth working in an antiques auction house with a circle of friends and allies.
It is set in the Cotswolds of England with country houses and hotels in the mix. The author has increased the amount of description compared to earlier volumes, with colourful inclusions almost everywhere.
My rating is reduced because only two thirds of the book is devoted to a complete, cosy crime story. That plot was easy to solve and although it was satisfying to be proved correct, the resolution was insubstantial. The last part of the book is devoted to setting up the next book in the series and there is a cliff-hanger ending. I found this frustrating as well as disappointing as the incident triggering our heroine's peril is identical in nature to a previous book. I feel this is inconsistent with the character development and maturity the heroine shows in other aspects. I doubt she would fall for the same trick twice - and so soon. Despite my criticisms, it is an interesting, entertaining read. It is not up to this author's usual standard, however.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 17, 2024
While the book isn't bad, the story line is muddled with 2 murders and a couple of robberies. Some things are solved in this book, but the others are just bait for the reader to buy the next book in the series. And there are a few references to something that happened before with no clarification of how that was resolved. Somehow it doesn't seem right to finish to book and not have conclusions to many of the plot lines. I suspect the next book may do the same thing!
Yes, I jumped in this series midstream, but they ought to offer a warning: "This will make more sense if you buy and read the entire series in order". The story wasn't compelling enough to make me want to invest in all the rest of the books.
Yes, I jumped in this series midstream, but they ought to offer a warning: "This will make more sense if you buy and read the entire series in order". The story wasn't compelling enough to make me want to invest in all the rest of the books.
December 26, 2022
Whilst Dotty is expanding her knowledge on antiques to help with her role, she unfortunately is also expanding on coming across murders and this one is quiet the mystery with some potential red herrings as well as a couple of other sub plots woven in. I loved how Dotty is being given more responsibilities at the auction house, I just wish she had confidence in herself as she is still some what skitteriesh but in saying that she isn't have much luck with trusting guys.
I was devasted for Dotty with what happened towards the end and also left counting down until the next book!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I was devasted for Dotty with what happened towards the end and also left counting down until the next book!!!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 28, 2022
Antique Tragedy is book #5 in the Dotty Sayers Antique Mystery series by Victoria Tait.
Dotty Sayers is preparing for a January auction and recovering from the shock about her friend Gilmore, and finishing up her dissertation.
This was a really interesting book. I like how Dotty is supported by work to finish her dissertation and also is being given more responsibility at work. The expanded roles of PC Jenkins and Sergeant Unwin added to the story. The ending surprised me and I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dotty Sayers is preparing for a January auction and recovering from the shock about her friend Gilmore, and finishing up her dissertation.
This was a really interesting book. I like how Dotty is supported by work to finish her dissertation and also is being given more responsibility at work. The expanded roles of PC Jenkins and Sergeant Unwin added to the story. The ending surprised me and I can’t wait for the next book to see what happens!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 31, 2023
Great mystery!
This was a really great mystery.
Dottie accompanies David Rook and Keya to several different antiques events and comes across more than she bargained for.
One of the stall holders is murdered, and there are several suspects so Dotty must be on point and pay attention in order to discover the killer.
But then there's a second murder that may or may not be associated with the first one.
Dottie also finds herself in quite a bit of trouble at the end of the story and it ends with a cliff hanger. Of course, we know Dottie isn't guilty of any wrongdoing, which begs the question.....who IS guilty?? Find out in the next installment!
This was a really great mystery.
Dottie accompanies David Rook and Keya to several different antiques events and comes across more than she bargained for.
One of the stall holders is murdered, and there are several suspects so Dotty must be on point and pay attention in order to discover the killer.
But then there's a second murder that may or may not be associated with the first one.
Dottie also finds herself in quite a bit of trouble at the end of the story and it ends with a cliff hanger. Of course, we know Dottie isn't guilty of any wrongdoing, which begs the question.....who IS guilty?? Find out in the next installment!
February 10, 2025
Dotty is an antique expert trainee, and is feeling quite vulnerable after a trusted friend framed her for art trafficking. There is a vintage sale as a distraction, but unfortunately a man is found dead at the exhibition. Valuable antiques are being stolen at the event and Dotty decides to investigate. Her friends are there to help her sort through the clues and there are a lot of people who had a bone to pick with Roger. There is a lot of mystery and mayhem as well as another death. A lot of interesting characters in a well-written story. I received an ARC copy of the book and this is my honest review.
December 26, 2022
I enjoyed this latest adventure featuring Dotty Sayers and the crew from Akemans Auctions. She is once again front and centre when not one but two murders are committed and becomes embroiled in the investigations as the police, Dotty, Beanie, Keya and friends try to puzzle out who-dun-it. I am looking forward to the next story as there were clear hints as to (at least in part) what Doty’s next mystery might be.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2022
This is the 5th book in an ongoing series about amateur sleuth Dottie Sayers and it's the third one I have read and reviewed.
I have to say that I didn't like it as much as book 3 and 4 of the series. It was rather clear from the start who the murderer was. And it seems like parts of the story are repeating themselves as Dottie is again used to try and smuggle stolen items. Also I didn't like that only one of the two murders were solved and the story will be continued in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have to say that I didn't like it as much as book 3 and 4 of the series. It was rather clear from the start who the murderer was. And it seems like parts of the story are repeating themselves as Dottie is again used to try and smuggle stolen items. Also I didn't like that only one of the two murders were solved and the story will be continued in the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2023
Dotty cannot seem to move far from connections between the military unit her deceased husband served with, mysteries and antiquities
pilferage of cultural items is probably a ling held practice of armies and soldiers. in the modern world though, some traditions are no longer embraced, though perhaps still in practice
tricky business related to various types of perceived ownership and rights can be lethal
very tangled and intrigue packed action seems to promise mire drama ahead for Dotty and her friends
pilferage of cultural items is probably a ling held practice of armies and soldiers. in the modern world though, some traditions are no longer embraced, though perhaps still in practice
tricky business related to various types of perceived ownership and rights can be lethal
very tangled and intrigue packed action seems to promise mire drama ahead for Dotty and her friends
December 28, 2022
The fifth book in the Dotty Sayers series has no surprises and features a similar plot line to book four. There are interesting perspectives on what happens behind the scenes at the large British markets that spring up on weekends, and a tantelizing side bar about similar goings on at higher-end auctions but nothing really new and no unexpected plot twists that keep you guessing until the end.
If you like cozy mysteries with a British background this is an easy quick read that leaves a few unanswered questions that will have you ready for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
If you like cozy mysteries with a British background this is an easy quick read that leaves a few unanswered questions that will have you ready for the next book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 4, 2023
An antique fair. A dead stallholder. Can an amateur sleuth both bag a bargain and identify a kill er?
A cozy mystery story you'll be glad you added to your reading list. It's well written, enjoyable, holds your attention and keeps you guessing who dun it. The characters are familiar and enjoyable and work well together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A cozy mystery story you'll be glad you added to your reading list. It's well written, enjoyable, holds your attention and keeps you guessing who dun it. The characters are familiar and enjoyable and work well together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 11, 2025
Antiques at their best!
Dotty is caught in the midst of an illegal exporting scheme and she knows nothing about it. This endearing character always seems to be in the middle of a murder investigation through no fault of her own. Join Dottie, Beanie, Keya and Ryan as they all work together to piece together the murders with which they have been presented. This story is very entertaining and quite a page turner!
Dotty is caught in the midst of an illegal exporting scheme and she knows nothing about it. This endearing character always seems to be in the middle of a murder investigation through no fault of her own. Join Dottie, Beanie, Keya and Ryan as they all work together to piece together the murders with which they have been presented. This story is very entertaining and quite a page turner!
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