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A Snapshot of NYC Mystery #2
Mugshots of Manhattan
Set in the world’s most exciting city, this new cozy mystery promises photo taking fun, New York glamour—and satisfying sleuthing featuring up-and-coming photographer Liv Spyer, a millennial with a keen eye for crime, who is sure to charm readers who are young and young at heart.
Liv Spyers hits the big time when she lands a photography assignment with Grammy Award-winning pop star, the one and only Bisa. A huge fan, Liv is extra thrilled that her new boyfriend, Harry, will escort her to the glamorous premiere of Bisa’s debut movie. But when Bisa’s estranged sister, Courtney, threatens to turn the photo-op into a PR disaster, Liv goes after her—only to turn to camera lens on herself when Courtney winds up dead. With all eyes on Liv, her star-studded career is suddenly on the verge of being cancelled . . .
Bisa is leaning hard on Liv to catch her sister’s killer—while she and her flirtatious entourage are wreaking havoc on Liv’s relationship with Harry. Now the best Liv can hope for is that her most famous photo doesn’t turn out to be her own mugshot. And that she can save herself—and Harry—before the killer strikes again . . .
Liv Spyers hits the big time when she lands a photography assignment with Grammy Award-winning pop star, the one and only Bisa. A huge fan, Liv is extra thrilled that her new boyfriend, Harry, will escort her to the glamorous premiere of Bisa’s debut movie. But when Bisa’s estranged sister, Courtney, threatens to turn the photo-op into a PR disaster, Liv goes after her—only to turn to camera lens on herself when Courtney winds up dead. With all eyes on Liv, her star-studded career is suddenly on the verge of being cancelled . . .
Bisa is leaning hard on Liv to catch her sister’s killer—while she and her flirtatious entourage are wreaking havoc on Liv’s relationship with Harry. Now the best Liv can hope for is that her most famous photo doesn’t turn out to be her own mugshot. And that she can save herself—and Harry—before the killer strikes again . . .
288 pages, Paperback
First published August 22, 2023
16 people are currently reading
248 people want to read
About the author
Christin Brecher
8 books367 followersVisit Christin's website at www.christinbrecher.com to learn more about the Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery series, and to sign up for the newsletter!
Christin Brecher was born and raised in New York City, where her family and many childhood friends still reside. As such, she feels she is as much of a small-town girl as any. The idea to write the Nantucket Candle Maker series sprang from her life-long connection to the small island off the coast of Massachusetts. Spending summers there as a child, Christin read from her family's library of mystery novels; after which she began to imagine stories inspired by the island's whaling heyday, its notoriously foggy nights, and during long bike rides to the beach. After many years in marketing for the publishing industry, followed by years raising her children, Murder's No Votive Confidence is Christin's debut novel.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
October 22, 2023
I really enjoyed this cozy mystery. It is book two in a series, but I hadn’t read book one and it didn’t prevent my enjoyment so it can work as a standalone. While I like photography I wasn’t as excited about behind the scenes with a pop star, but the characters and writing drew me and I had really enjoyed this one. I liked that our amateur sleuth has a bit of a side hustle helping her boyfriend with his secret job. Liv has been hired to photograph a series of parties and behind the scenes as a concert for pop star Bisa. But when Bisa’s sister is murdered and Liv’s NDA prevents her from calling the police she has no choice but to sleuth around to find out who murdered Anna.
September 6, 2023
Mugshots of Manhattan (A Snapshot of NYC Mystery Book 2) by Christin Brecher
In book two of this delightful and suspenseful series, up and coming photographer, Liv Spyers, lands a huge assignment with mega pop star Bisa (think Taylor Swift or Beyoncé) but once again a pesky murder has her splitting her time between sleuthing and shooting fab photos!
I love a good cozy mystery and this one is just super fun! Fast paced and twisty with another full cast of nefarious characters and potential killers. I’m loving this series and look forward to more. If you enjoy cozy mysteries this is a great one!
In book two of this delightful and suspenseful series, up and coming photographer, Liv Spyers, lands a huge assignment with mega pop star Bisa (think Taylor Swift or Beyoncé) but once again a pesky murder has her splitting her time between sleuthing and shooting fab photos!
I love a good cozy mystery and this one is just super fun! Fast paced and twisty with another full cast of nefarious characters and potential killers. I’m loving this series and look forward to more. If you enjoy cozy mysteries this is a great one!
July 20, 2023
Mugshots of Manhattan is an adorable mystery novel with a sleuth, Liv Spyers, that doesn’t solve mysteries- just a photographer that happens to be one of those people that “falls over bodies”, always finding herself in the wrong place at the wrong time. When she is asked to be the only photographer assigned to the famous singer Bisa’s popular three day movie debut (with events scheduled each day until the eve of the last one, on opening night), Liv is thrust into a world which she knows very little about- and is very much out of place. But, that won’t stop Liv from doing the best job ever!
During the first day working with Bisa, at the opening event, she stumbles onto a mysterious death- as she watches who Liv is sure is Bisa’s sister Anna, jumping off a bridge to her death. The body is then promptly whisked away by a man in a mid-sized fishing boat before anyone else can get there. Since Liv assumes the man in the boat is taking the body to the hospital, or the police, nothing seems off about the body transport. But, with more time to think, and when no bodies appear to have been taken to the hospital, police or coroner, Liv knows something is wrong.
Especially since moments after the body disappears from the scene, Liv calls Bisa’s “people”- and Alfonz, Bisa’s security guard, appears on the scene. He does everything to try and convince Liv that what she had seen was wrong, even going so far as to say that it was confirmed by another person that Anna was somewhere else when Liv saw her jump off the bridge. Furthermore, Liv is firmly reminded that she will not have a job if she continues to talk about what she had seen (because, she is told again and again, she is wrong) along with a very firm reminder that she signed a non disclosure agreement that binds her from legally talking about anything she sees while employed as Bisa’s photographer.
Earlier at the opening event, Liv was aware that Anna and Bisa were not getting along. She even overheard a private conversation they had, which further confirms they had issues with one another. Anna had the audacity to show up out of the blue for Bisa’s big moment, uninvited- and because of the debacle Anna created, Bisa did not want her at any of the other three day events or the behind the scene activities. Why did Anna show up? Simple. She needs more money, of course, and stays despite the fact Bisa had already said, “No” (part of the private conversation Liv overheard).
Along with Anna showing to stir up trouble there is another shocking appearance- Bisa’s ex husband, Russell, who was also not invited. During the opening events Bisa gets a proposal from her then boyfriend, Dev, who, despite the fact that he wants to marry her and Bisa says “yes” to his marriage proposal, everyone can’t help pointing out how phony the whole relationship seems. And Anna couldn’t wait to ruin it, as she did right after the proposal- making a scene in front of everyone there, along with demanding that Liv photo things that Bisa would never approve of.
After Anna’s “swan dive”, which Liv is still sure she saw, as she returns to her assignment photographing Bisa’s events- she is still not allowed to talk about what she saw and that no one is concerned about what Liv saw Anna do, jump to her death, that no one seems to believe Liv, makes her suspicious. And when no body is reported to have been found, Liv knows that the man on the boat who picked up Anna’s body didn’t report anything to the authorities as he should have, Liv’s concerns increase. However, unbeknownst to anyone- Liv has proof of what happened having taken a photograph of Anna when she was on the bridge. She also saw blood there- and because of this is sure that something had happened, that Anna was dead. But why is she the only one who is concerned?
But, what I love best about the character Liv Spyers and Mugshots of Manhattan is that, on her mothers side, she is of Italian descent- as I am from my fathers side. The relationship she has with her grandparents is very much like the one I had (as they have passed many years ago).
At 28 Liv lives with her grandparents in New York city , having moved from their hometown in New Jersey two years prior. Of course Liv has been influenced by their music, as I was and also, her grandmother is influenced by Liv’s taste in music, just as my grandmother was mine. I remember looking for my Abba CD (and, while they were a little before my taste, when you are 16, how can you not love Dancing Queen) for the longest time and finally one day seeing it in my grandmother’s CD rack- giving me the biggest smile in a long time. But then, my father’s parents could always put a smile on my face, as family, as my best friends, with how much they loved me and let me know it.
Liv Spyers has her photography studio in the first story of their two story West Village brownstone. Her grandmother is always there to urge her granddaughter on, offer moral support and keep life interesting with the precious things she says. Originally moving in with her grandparents to help them run their business, now that they had gotten older, they had decided to shut down the locksmith shop, turning it over to their granddaughter and her dreams.
And, since Liv and her grandparents are introduced in the first chapter I instantly felt at home with this book- that no matter how the story turned out, as long as I got to run into Liv’s grandmother and grandfather on some of the pages, see their relationship and life together, then all of it was worth it. However, I won’t forget my grandfather who, like Liv’s Italian grandfather, was as much a part of the story. Just as his mind is fading in the story, so did my grandfathers and nearing the end of his life, during the last years, I was the last person he remembered and the one who took care of him until his end. It was my greatest honor in life- to care for him and get this last time with him. Reading about Liv Spyers, for all the fame and fortune she is around as a photographer, the best part of her life and story- is because of the home life she leads and how she cared for her grandparents and they her. Ten and some odd years back, it was the very same in my grandparents house, for me (without me being semi-famous or as good as Liv as with her photography, at anything but really, loving them, at the time)a.
When Liv’s grandmother asks if Liv has gotten a photograph of a handsome, famous man she has a little grandmotherly crush on, her grandfather replies, “I don’t get what she sees in him,” (to Liv), “Especially when she has a looker like me at home.” These grandparents, directly like mine who sat and joked just like things of that nature. He also tells Rosa (Liv’s grandmother) that, “No one could ever be an upgrade to you.” Just as this pair loved one another deeply, so did my grandparents who were married for 61 years (until my grandfather died). I have never seen a deeper expression of love between two people as when my grandfather was going in for quadruple bypass surgery and wanted to say something and kiss her goodbye. Being too far away to hear their words (and not wanting to invade their privacy, their moment), I could see them convey their love- never more in love- as they were that day and everyday (even after he died, one year later, my grandmother died- of a broken heart).
Long story short (too late), when it comes to the mystery Liv is determined to solve (because no one else even wants to acknowledge that anything happened- after delving into Anna’s life, finding out where her money came from, finding out that drugs were, in any way, connected to the woman's life, if Anna wouldn’t have died it would have been a surprise (all that she was involved in). But, Liv knows that Anna's death,because of the cover up, must be more personal than money- because of the cover up, of all the details that led up to what Liv saw on the bridge, and all the evidence that was left behind and all the evidence that was not.
Could Bisa have killed her sister? Of course, she is a top suspect. Unfortunately when you get to have the type of family Bisa has, with the money and pressure for more fame and wealth attached- blood relations can be a burden, a hazard, much of the time, more than a help. And that Anna tried to hinder her sister in so many ways- what is the point of keeping a liability like that around? However there are other suspects and as the evidence piles up it looks as if some people that are involved in Bisa’s life- are only there to keep an eye on her sister.
As Liv gets closer and closer to the truth- those who hurt Anna start to suspect that Liv is onto them. Will she catch Anna’s killers- before they do what they did to Anna- to her? And then she would disappear as Anna did, without a trace, all the evidence needed to prove Anna was killed gone, other than the evidence Liv kept to herself.
Happy Sleuthing Readers! Pick up a copy of Mugshots of Manhattan to solve the crime of Anna’s death with the help of Liv Spyers- photographer, granddaughter and sleuth!
During the first day working with Bisa, at the opening event, she stumbles onto a mysterious death- as she watches who Liv is sure is Bisa’s sister Anna, jumping off a bridge to her death. The body is then promptly whisked away by a man in a mid-sized fishing boat before anyone else can get there. Since Liv assumes the man in the boat is taking the body to the hospital, or the police, nothing seems off about the body transport. But, with more time to think, and when no bodies appear to have been taken to the hospital, police or coroner, Liv knows something is wrong.
Especially since moments after the body disappears from the scene, Liv calls Bisa’s “people”- and Alfonz, Bisa’s security guard, appears on the scene. He does everything to try and convince Liv that what she had seen was wrong, even going so far as to say that it was confirmed by another person that Anna was somewhere else when Liv saw her jump off the bridge. Furthermore, Liv is firmly reminded that she will not have a job if she continues to talk about what she had seen (because, she is told again and again, she is wrong) along with a very firm reminder that she signed a non disclosure agreement that binds her from legally talking about anything she sees while employed as Bisa’s photographer.
Earlier at the opening event, Liv was aware that Anna and Bisa were not getting along. She even overheard a private conversation they had, which further confirms they had issues with one another. Anna had the audacity to show up out of the blue for Bisa’s big moment, uninvited- and because of the debacle Anna created, Bisa did not want her at any of the other three day events or the behind the scene activities. Why did Anna show up? Simple. She needs more money, of course, and stays despite the fact Bisa had already said, “No” (part of the private conversation Liv overheard).
Along with Anna showing to stir up trouble there is another shocking appearance- Bisa’s ex husband, Russell, who was also not invited. During the opening events Bisa gets a proposal from her then boyfriend, Dev, who, despite the fact that he wants to marry her and Bisa says “yes” to his marriage proposal, everyone can’t help pointing out how phony the whole relationship seems. And Anna couldn’t wait to ruin it, as she did right after the proposal- making a scene in front of everyone there, along with demanding that Liv photo things that Bisa would never approve of.
After Anna’s “swan dive”, which Liv is still sure she saw, as she returns to her assignment photographing Bisa’s events- she is still not allowed to talk about what she saw and that no one is concerned about what Liv saw Anna do, jump to her death, that no one seems to believe Liv, makes her suspicious. And when no body is reported to have been found, Liv knows that the man on the boat who picked up Anna’s body didn’t report anything to the authorities as he should have, Liv’s concerns increase. However, unbeknownst to anyone- Liv has proof of what happened having taken a photograph of Anna when she was on the bridge. She also saw blood there- and because of this is sure that something had happened, that Anna was dead. But why is she the only one who is concerned?
But, what I love best about the character Liv Spyers and Mugshots of Manhattan is that, on her mothers side, she is of Italian descent- as I am from my fathers side. The relationship she has with her grandparents is very much like the one I had (as they have passed many years ago).
At 28 Liv lives with her grandparents in New York city , having moved from their hometown in New Jersey two years prior. Of course Liv has been influenced by their music, as I was and also, her grandmother is influenced by Liv’s taste in music, just as my grandmother was mine. I remember looking for my Abba CD (and, while they were a little before my taste, when you are 16, how can you not love Dancing Queen) for the longest time and finally one day seeing it in my grandmother’s CD rack- giving me the biggest smile in a long time. But then, my father’s parents could always put a smile on my face, as family, as my best friends, with how much they loved me and let me know it.
Liv Spyers has her photography studio in the first story of their two story West Village brownstone. Her grandmother is always there to urge her granddaughter on, offer moral support and keep life interesting with the precious things she says. Originally moving in with her grandparents to help them run their business, now that they had gotten older, they had decided to shut down the locksmith shop, turning it over to their granddaughter and her dreams.
And, since Liv and her grandparents are introduced in the first chapter I instantly felt at home with this book- that no matter how the story turned out, as long as I got to run into Liv’s grandmother and grandfather on some of the pages, see their relationship and life together, then all of it was worth it. However, I won’t forget my grandfather who, like Liv’s Italian grandfather, was as much a part of the story. Just as his mind is fading in the story, so did my grandfathers and nearing the end of his life, during the last years, I was the last person he remembered and the one who took care of him until his end. It was my greatest honor in life- to care for him and get this last time with him. Reading about Liv Spyers, for all the fame and fortune she is around as a photographer, the best part of her life and story- is because of the home life she leads and how she cared for her grandparents and they her. Ten and some odd years back, it was the very same in my grandparents house, for me (without me being semi-famous or as good as Liv as with her photography, at anything but really, loving them, at the time)a.
When Liv’s grandmother asks if Liv has gotten a photograph of a handsome, famous man she has a little grandmotherly crush on, her grandfather replies, “I don’t get what she sees in him,” (to Liv), “Especially when she has a looker like me at home.” These grandparents, directly like mine who sat and joked just like things of that nature. He also tells Rosa (Liv’s grandmother) that, “No one could ever be an upgrade to you.” Just as this pair loved one another deeply, so did my grandparents who were married for 61 years (until my grandfather died). I have never seen a deeper expression of love between two people as when my grandfather was going in for quadruple bypass surgery and wanted to say something and kiss her goodbye. Being too far away to hear their words (and not wanting to invade their privacy, their moment), I could see them convey their love- never more in love- as they were that day and everyday (even after he died, one year later, my grandmother died- of a broken heart).
Long story short (too late), when it comes to the mystery Liv is determined to solve (because no one else even wants to acknowledge that anything happened- after delving into Anna’s life, finding out where her money came from, finding out that drugs were, in any way, connected to the woman's life, if Anna wouldn’t have died it would have been a surprise (all that she was involved in). But, Liv knows that Anna's death,because of the cover up, must be more personal than money- because of the cover up, of all the details that led up to what Liv saw on the bridge, and all the evidence that was left behind and all the evidence that was not.
Could Bisa have killed her sister? Of course, she is a top suspect. Unfortunately when you get to have the type of family Bisa has, with the money and pressure for more fame and wealth attached- blood relations can be a burden, a hazard, much of the time, more than a help. And that Anna tried to hinder her sister in so many ways- what is the point of keeping a liability like that around? However there are other suspects and as the evidence piles up it looks as if some people that are involved in Bisa’s life- are only there to keep an eye on her sister.
As Liv gets closer and closer to the truth- those who hurt Anna start to suspect that Liv is onto them. Will she catch Anna’s killers- before they do what they did to Anna- to her? And then she would disappear as Anna did, without a trace, all the evidence needed to prove Anna was killed gone, other than the evidence Liv kept to herself.
Happy Sleuthing Readers! Pick up a copy of Mugshots of Manhattan to solve the crime of Anna’s death with the help of Liv Spyers- photographer, granddaughter and sleuth!
November 29, 2023
5 blindingly shiny stars for Mugshots of Manhattan by Christin Brecher, and if there was a higher rating system it would be at the top of them all! I listened to and loved book 1 in this series (Photo Finished), popped in with a different audiobook because I had to, and came right back to listen to this one. I really wish there were more than 2 books out right now, and I could get lost in Liv's world forever. I loved the NYC setting as well as the new mystery putting our FMC not only in the path of a killer but an art thief as well! There are many facets to the storyline, and I was incredibly happy to just be along for the ride. Liv and Harry are still an item (YAY!), and the small dose of romance is super cute and just the right amount for this cozy mystery.
Kimberly Austin narrates the audio again, and I am not kidding when I say you NEED to listen to these on audiobook! She does such a fantastic job and fits Liv to a T, and I just get pure enjoyment from listening to her narrate these books. We take high society to the next level in Mugshots of Manhattan and I enjoyed the dose of glamour I got to experience through Liv and her photography contract with a pop star. All that glitz and glam doesn't mean much when you're being chased by a killer but never fear because Liv will always try to get her man... or woman (we can't be sexist!). I would recommend reading this series in order to avoid potential spoilers, and I loved that Brecher didn't feel the need to rehash what happened in the last book which can make things very repetitive. Just another reason to read in order, and if you love cozy mysteries this one is a no-brainer!
Kimberly Austin narrates the audio again, and I am not kidding when I say you NEED to listen to these on audiobook! She does such a fantastic job and fits Liv to a T, and I just get pure enjoyment from listening to her narrate these books. We take high society to the next level in Mugshots of Manhattan and I enjoyed the dose of glamour I got to experience through Liv and her photography contract with a pop star. All that glitz and glam doesn't mean much when you're being chased by a killer but never fear because Liv will always try to get her man... or woman (we can't be sexist!). I would recommend reading this series in order to avoid potential spoilers, and I loved that Brecher didn't feel the need to rehash what happened in the last book which can make things very repetitive. Just another reason to read in order, and if you love cozy mysteries this one is a no-brainer!
September 11, 2023
I really enjoyed this behind-the-scene glimpse of life with a pop star. I found the mystery to be well-paced and Liv’s investigating and actions believable. The characters were well-rounded and not over-the-top (until they needed to be) and the added intrigue related to her boyfriend’s case was a nice bonus. I also loved the grounding moments she spends with her family, away from the glitz and glamour. All in all, an enjoyable read with great characters, excellent pacing, and a fascinating mystery. Looking forward to the next in the series.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
I received a copy from #NetGalley for an honest review.
October 22, 2023
This was a pretty good follow up to book 1! Liv and Harry are back and investigating the mysterious death/disappearance of the troublemaking sister of a pop star. However, with a NDA preventing her from calling the police, Liv has to rely on the clues found in her photos to solve the crime. The interactions between Liv and Harry are cute especially as their relationship grows. Harry’s nemesis is hysterical and his interactions with Liv are funny. There’s not as much interaction with Lviv’s family, but what you get is just as warm and welcoming as I book one. I also wish there was more of Harry’s aunt! Overall, it was a good cozy mystery and entertaining read.
August 21, 2023
I really enjoyed this one! Mugshots Of Manhattan is book 2 in the Snapshots Of NYC Mystery series and it was just as good as Photo Finished, the first book in the series. In this book we follow Liv Spryers on a photography assignment for pop star, Bisa. There’s a lot of drama among Visa’s inner circle leading up to Liv finding Anna dead. Overall this was a great continuation of this series, and I loved following Liv and her boyfriend Harry as they worked to solve both of their mysteries. If you are looking to read a cozy mystery series, I recommend giving this one a try!
September 9, 2023
I loved this mystery, a cozy set in a big town and featuring a heroine who's not a backer or a librarian.
It was a lot of fun, I thoroughly enjoyed it and the solid mystery kept me guessing.
Well rounded characters and good storytelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It was a lot of fun, I thoroughly enjoyed it and the solid mystery kept me guessing.
Well rounded characters and good storytelling.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine
February 4, 2024
Leuk concept; een fotografe die getuigen is van een moord en deze adhv foto’s gaat oplossen, maar dit had misschien iets beter uitgewerkt kunnen worden. De vele personages maakte het niet altijd even makkelijk om te volgen, zeker omdat deze niet echt werden uitgewerkt... overall wel een leuk verhaal!
3,5⭐️
3,5⭐️
February 6, 2024
I got this ARC from Turning Page Bookshop in Goose Creek, SC. I like the first book better than this one. This one draggeddddddd. I did like that the mystery kept you on your toes. This one had quite a few grammatical errors too.
August 30, 2023
Really good story. I was sad the victim was who it was, cause I liked her. Love the tie in with Harry's job and the confusion about who is who. Ending was great! So excited to see what is next!
November 28, 2023
This wasn't quite as strong as the first one, but I still really enjoyed it. Harry and Liv are a lot of fun and the secondary characters are developing nicely. There was just one too many things—the pop star chaos, a designer drug, the Cardinal—to suspend my disbelief on. 3.5 stars.
November 29, 2023
This review originally published in Looking For a Good Book. Rated 3.5 of 5
Liv Spyer, a young, female photographer, has been working hard to make a name for herself as a professional photographer when she lands the prime job of photographing Bisa ... only the biggest Grammy Award-winning pop star on the planet.
To add to Liv's joy, her new boyfriend, Harry, will be taking her to the opening of Bisa's movie debut. Bisa's sister, Anna, however, is holding a grudge and promises to make PR/photo event into a disaster. This would have such a negative impact on Liv's up-coming career, that she goes after Anna to get her to back off. But it backfires when Anna is killed and Liv becomes the prime suspect.
Bisa believes in Liv and the two of them will try to find Annay's killer while Liv also tries to keep hold of her relationship with Harry, despite many trying to keep them apart.
This is the second book in the Snapshots of NYC Mystery series and, like the first, is an upbeat, swift, cozy with a young millennial, amateur detective.
It is refreshing to have our protagonist someone young and just trying to get a career going, like this. Everything is new and fresh and exciting for Liv (especially in New York City) and we get to experience that excitement through her eyes. Being a photographer, Live has a good eye for detail, which definitely helps when looking for clues to uncover a murderer. And perhaps it's her youth that has her risking danger or not thinking consequences through all the way.
The mystery is here is fine - it's just enough to keep us guessing, but really it's the character of Liv, her family and friends and associates that hooks us. Liv is a bit of a 'Pollyanna' - but only a bit, and living in NYC and around a few murders is going to harden her pretty fast.
Overall, this was fun.
Looking for a good book? For a light read and for those who enjoy a good cozy mystery, Mugshots of Manhattan by Christin Brecher is almost picture perfect.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
Liv Spyer, a young, female photographer, has been working hard to make a name for herself as a professional photographer when she lands the prime job of photographing Bisa ... only the biggest Grammy Award-winning pop star on the planet.
To add to Liv's joy, her new boyfriend, Harry, will be taking her to the opening of Bisa's movie debut. Bisa's sister, Anna, however, is holding a grudge and promises to make PR/photo event into a disaster. This would have such a negative impact on Liv's up-coming career, that she goes after Anna to get her to back off. But it backfires when Anna is killed and Liv becomes the prime suspect.
Bisa believes in Liv and the two of them will try to find Annay's killer while Liv also tries to keep hold of her relationship with Harry, despite many trying to keep them apart.
This is the second book in the Snapshots of NYC Mystery series and, like the first, is an upbeat, swift, cozy with a young millennial, amateur detective.
It is refreshing to have our protagonist someone young and just trying to get a career going, like this. Everything is new and fresh and exciting for Liv (especially in New York City) and we get to experience that excitement through her eyes. Being a photographer, Live has a good eye for detail, which definitely helps when looking for clues to uncover a murderer. And perhaps it's her youth that has her risking danger or not thinking consequences through all the way.
The mystery is here is fine - it's just enough to keep us guessing, but really it's the character of Liv, her family and friends and associates that hooks us. Liv is a bit of a 'Pollyanna' - but only a bit, and living in NYC and around a few murders is going to harden her pretty fast.
Overall, this was fun.
Looking for a good book? For a light read and for those who enjoy a good cozy mystery, Mugshots of Manhattan by Christin Brecher is almost picture perfect.
I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher, through Netgalley, in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2023
Mugshots of Manhattan is a wonderful second book in this delightful series, which features a young portrait photographer in NYC as an amateur sleuth. Liv fills in for the injured Regina (a well-known photographer she has worked with before), as the personal photographer for a whirlwind weekend - pop-up concerts, parties and a movie premiere - with a musical superstar, Bisa, who has just finished making a movie set in NYC and is ready to release some new songs. Bisa made me think of Beyonce, or maybe Taylor Swift or Ariana Grande, and their amazing fans. A lot of the action takes place on Roosevelt Island, which is a unique spot in the city, an island between Manhattan and Queens. Once again, Liv winds up using her sharp observational skills in an investigation. This time it’s the disappearance of Bisa’s sister, who Liv sees suddenly leave a party on a Citibike e-bike. The behind-the-scenes stuff of what it takes to put on a huge concert was very interesting, including rehearsals with intricate choreography. Bisa has an extensive and very loyal entourage, but can she trust every one of them?
There’s also an interesting subplot involving Liv’s boyfriend, Harry, whose actual job is not what he tells people.
Once again, we have terrific scenes with Liv’s grandparents, as well as Liv’s friend Maria, although I would have loved more of those. We also get a lot of NYC color, which is always fun.
While this is the second book in the series, I think it works well as a standalone. Of course, you lose some of the backstory of the characters, but it would be just fine on its own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
There’s also an interesting subplot involving Liv’s boyfriend, Harry, whose actual job is not what he tells people.
Once again, we have terrific scenes with Liv’s grandparents, as well as Liv’s friend Maria, although I would have loved more of those. We also get a lot of NYC color, which is always fun.
While this is the second book in the series, I think it works well as a standalone. Of course, you lose some of the backstory of the characters, but it would be just fine on its own.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Cozies for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
August 8, 2024
🔪I love these suspense romance reads and have been reading more and more. So I’m gonna break them down differently from my other reviews.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cozy mystery
So this was very cute light and fun.
A different take on solving mystery our h does it through the lens of her camera.
A bit unrealistic but who care they all are.
It was a good who done it. I didn’t know for sure till the end.
Love the NY setting
Didn’t love the entertainment celebrity aspect in this one though.
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
I liked the little romance we didn’t get. It just isn’t enough I would have liked more. No spice
We get a bit more with them actually being together in this one but I still wanted more. Harry doesn’t even come onto the scene till 40%
🚹Hero-
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Harry
I liked him a lot. I just wish we had more of him.
He’s a big support for her and I love that they work together to help each other out. They are a great team.
🚺Heroine-
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She is smart and very family oriented.
She was fan-girling a bit too much for me in this one.
I am not a fan of characters that fan girl.
⚠️Safety-
No spice
Murder
Marital affairs
Drug use
🎧Audiobook Narration-
3.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ it was easy to listen to
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I liked this a lot it was easy light and fun. The characters were enjoyable to read and the mystery was interesting. The romance needs more flair.
I don’t want to give any spoilers away so you can go into it it blind and enjoy all the twists and turns❤️.
Ratings 0-5 Star Scale
😮Mystery/Suspense-
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Cozy mystery
So this was very cute light and fun.
A different take on solving mystery our h does it through the lens of her camera.
A bit unrealistic but who care they all are.
It was a good who done it. I didn’t know for sure till the end.
Love the NY setting
Didn’t love the entertainment celebrity aspect in this one though.
❤️🔥Romance/Chemistry-
3⭐️⭐️⭐️
I liked the little romance we didn’t get. It just isn’t enough I would have liked more. No spice
We get a bit more with them actually being together in this one but I still wanted more. Harry doesn’t even come onto the scene till 40%
🚹Hero-
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Harry
I liked him a lot. I just wish we had more of him.
He’s a big support for her and I love that they work together to help each other out. They are a great team.
🚺Heroine-
4⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
She is smart and very family oriented.
She was fan-girling a bit too much for me in this one.
I am not a fan of characters that fan girl.
⚠️Safety-
No spice
Murder
Marital affairs
Drug use
🎧Audiobook Narration-
3.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️ it was easy to listen to
🥰Overall Enjoyment-
I liked this a lot it was easy light and fun. The characters were enjoyable to read and the mystery was interesting. The romance needs more flair.
June 30, 2023
Setting the Scene: Rising star photographer Liv Spyers scores a plum assignment as the solo official photographer for rock icon Bisa and her movie premier extravaganza in NYC. As thrilled as she is with this assignment, she quickly learns that there are many secrets among Bisa's inner circle, including her sister, Anna, requiring more than photography skills to maneuver. When Liv witnesses what she thinks is a murder, things become increasingly strange and dangerous. She is thrilled to have her boyfriend, Harry, by her side; but he has a case of his own to resolve, one involving his art thief nemesis. Together they have their work cut out for them.
What I Thought: I loved the first book in this series, but this book exceeded my expectations. Ms. Brecher uses words on a page like a photographer uses angles, light, and shadows. It goes beyond being well written with well developed characters, as it weaves together several intriguing mysteries without skimping on the fun and excitement, all at a New York pace with lots of Hollywood fake. Liv's camera provides her a unique perspective of the world around her that Christin Brecher skillfully translates to the reader in word pictures. For instance, Bisa's rehearsal is described so well that when the choreographer says, "Okay, people, let's take it from the top," the musical strains from the scene from White Christmas ran through my mind. This is an energetic, entertaining read. Get ready to enjoy another romp through NYC with Liv and Harry.
What I Thought: I loved the first book in this series, but this book exceeded my expectations. Ms. Brecher uses words on a page like a photographer uses angles, light, and shadows. It goes beyond being well written with well developed characters, as it weaves together several intriguing mysteries without skimping on the fun and excitement, all at a New York pace with lots of Hollywood fake. Liv's camera provides her a unique perspective of the world around her that Christin Brecher skillfully translates to the reader in word pictures. For instance, Bisa's rehearsal is described so well that when the choreographer says, "Okay, people, let's take it from the top," the musical strains from the scene from White Christmas ran through my mind. This is an energetic, entertaining read. Get ready to enjoy another romp through NYC with Liv and Harry.
April 16, 2023
Mugshots of Manhattan by Christin Brecher is the second in the Snapshot of NYC Mystery series. Get ready for a wild ride in this James-Bond-meets-Nancy-Drew-set-in-Manhattan series. Liv Spyers is thrilled when her boss, who is out of commission, taps her to take on an exclusive assignment photographing the inside world of Bisa, the hottest new pop star. She gets a rare look at the behind-the-scenes of A-list parties and sold out concerts. When Bisa’s sister Anna shows up uninvited then just as quickly disappears, Liv knows that there is more to the story than the party line. Add in the Cardinal, a larger-than-life art thief, on the run from Liv’s boyfriend Harry and you have a madcap caper of a mystery.
This is one of those books that you can’t put down but at the same time want to last as long as possible. The characters are well-developed and interesting, and the relationships between the main characters heartwarming. I love Granny and Poppy, Liv’s grandparents. The narrative is engaging and the mystery fast-paced and action packed. (I reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own) This was one fun read and I am already anticipating the next in the series.
This is one of those books that you can’t put down but at the same time want to last as long as possible. The characters are well-developed and interesting, and the relationships between the main characters heartwarming. I love Granny and Poppy, Liv’s grandparents. The narrative is engaging and the mystery fast-paced and action packed. (I reviewed an advance reader copy and all opinions are my own) This was one fun read and I am already anticipating the next in the series.
March 29, 2023
What a fun, fast-paced cozy! I haven’t read the first book, but this worked great as a standalone and I didn’t feel like I was missing out on anything (or hearing way too much backstory about the first book). I really enjoyed the glitzy backstage pass to a diva’s rock concert/move premiere, the slightly ridiculous art heist angle (seriously - it’s a little over the top but who doesn’t love art heists??), and the New York setting. I also enjoyed that it was a little more on the edgy side for a cozy, because sometimes the overly sweet ones are a little too twee for me (no bad language, but mentions of sex and drugs, and plenty of drinking). It was one that wrapped up super fast - one minute we had no clue who the murderer might be, the next we were totally confident - and had a bit too much of the “I, the bad guy, am going to tell you exactly what I did” - but that works fine for a book like this. I’m definitely going to pick up the first in this series and start things off properly.
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Note: I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
August 10, 2023
A photographer who solves murders on the side?
Photographer - Liv is a photographer who has her own studio but also works with another company for special events
Singer - for this job, she has been hired to take pictures for Bisa; a singer turned actress with 3 days of concerts and a movie premier to attend
Sister - Bisa’s sister unexpectedly shows up, wreaks a little bit of havoc, and then winds up missing. Liv also suspects she might be unalive.
Why? - Who would want her dead and why?
This is the second book in this series, A Snapshot of NYC and thank you to Kensington for sending me this book so I can continue to live in Liv’s world. As always the characters are so fun and the singer, Bisa, reminds me a lot of Taylor swift in that there is a lot of mania and concerts happening. Plus everyone seems to love her. Liv is good at observing what is going on around here. My only criticism might be that we do not get to see a few of the side characters as much as in the first book, and they are really fun as well.
Photographer - Liv is a photographer who has her own studio but also works with another company for special events
Singer - for this job, she has been hired to take pictures for Bisa; a singer turned actress with 3 days of concerts and a movie premier to attend
Sister - Bisa’s sister unexpectedly shows up, wreaks a little bit of havoc, and then winds up missing. Liv also suspects she might be unalive.
Why? - Who would want her dead and why?
This is the second book in this series, A Snapshot of NYC and thank you to Kensington for sending me this book so I can continue to live in Liv’s world. As always the characters are so fun and the singer, Bisa, reminds me a lot of Taylor swift in that there is a lot of mania and concerts happening. Plus everyone seems to love her. Liv is good at observing what is going on around here. My only criticism might be that we do not get to see a few of the side characters as much as in the first book, and they are really fun as well.
June 10, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
I don't read them all that often, but sometimes I find myself in the mood for a good cozy. Mugshots of Manhattan fits that bill. As other reviews have stated, and I was unaware of, this is the second book in a series. This reads as a stand-alone, and you won't be left lost as to what's going, nor inundated with recaps of the previous book.
This was an entertaining, easy read, and an all around fun whodunit. The characters are likeable, and the plot well-done, though a little convoluted. My only complaint being that it was just too over the top for my tastes. There was just so much going on. I like campy (think Agatha Raisin) but also based more in the realm of believable situations. Still, I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fun, cozy whodunit stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the e-ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
I don't read them all that often, but sometimes I find myself in the mood for a good cozy. Mugshots of Manhattan fits that bill. As other reviews have stated, and I was unaware of, this is the second book in a series. This reads as a stand-alone, and you won't be left lost as to what's going, nor inundated with recaps of the previous book.
This was an entertaining, easy read, and an all around fun whodunit. The characters are likeable, and the plot well-done, though a little convoluted. My only complaint being that it was just too over the top for my tastes. There was just so much going on. I like campy (think Agatha Raisin) but also based more in the realm of believable situations. Still, I absolutely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fun, cozy whodunit stories.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for the e-ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2023
Our intrepid event photographer Liv Spyers finds herself on the most exciting job of her career. Liv has been hired to photograph the mega three day promo of Bisa's big screen debut and the Grammy winners' kickoff to her new tour. In the midst of all this, Bisa's sister, Anna, arrives to add some family drama.
Liv sees Anna fall off a bridge (she took a photo) and her body removed by someone in a boat but no one seems concerned. Liv investigates, could Bisa have had something to do with it?
This second Liv Spyer mystery is a fun, entertaing, quick read. The characters are well done. I love Liv's grandparents, who she lives with. They have such a loving relationship. Liv's boyfriend, Harry, an agent with the International Art Crimes Unit helps her even though he is working on a case of his own. I can't wait to see what Liv gets involved in next!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for an ARC. The review is my own.
Liv sees Anna fall off a bridge (she took a photo) and her body removed by someone in a boat but no one seems concerned. Liv investigates, could Bisa have had something to do with it?
This second Liv Spyer mystery is a fun, entertaing, quick read. The characters are well done. I love Liv's grandparents, who she lives with. They have such a loving relationship. Liv's boyfriend, Harry, an agent with the International Art Crimes Unit helps her even though he is working on a case of his own. I can't wait to see what Liv gets involved in next!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Kensington Books, for an ARC. The review is my own.
August 16, 2023
When Liv Spyers gets the photo assignment of a lifetime, not only is she snapping photos, but focused on catching a killer! This second installment of A Snapshot of NYC Mystery was so entertaining. Liv's assignment is to take photos of a megastar singer/actress Bisa. Liv is just on the edge of the inner circle of producers, managers, security, and others. When Liv sees what looks like someone fall off a bridge, things don't quite add up and Liv is asked to do some investigating.
I like that Liv uses her camera to capture evidence, and starts asking questions. Liv and Harry work great as a couple and team. We get to see more of Harry and his undercover work for the Art Crimes Unit. Poppy, Granny, and Maria add fun to the story as well.
Thank you to Kensington and the author for the ARC, and for letting me share my early thoughts on Mugshots of Manhattan!
I like that Liv uses her camera to capture evidence, and starts asking questions. Liv and Harry work great as a couple and team. We get to see more of Harry and his undercover work for the Art Crimes Unit. Poppy, Granny, and Maria add fun to the story as well.
Thank you to Kensington and the author for the ARC, and for letting me share my early thoughts on Mugshots of Manhattan!
March 22, 2023
Liv is killing it in the City and with a gig shooting a Grammy Award winning musician at her first movie premier. Liv’s excited about the gig, but life in the fast lane isn’t quite what she was expecting. First, Bisa’s entourage is all over Harry and then Bisa’s sister threatens to wreak havoc on the event.
When Courtney is found dead, the spotlight is on Liv. With Bisa expecting Liv to fin her sister’s killer, she’s got her work cut out for her. Now the question is whether Liv and Harry can make it through this one…dead or alive.
The second book in this series brings a strong female protagonist along with a well devised mystery that delivers!. If you like strong female characters in the big city, this one based in NYC is ripe for picking.
When Courtney is found dead, the spotlight is on Liv. With Bisa expecting Liv to fin her sister’s killer, she’s got her work cut out for her. Now the question is whether Liv and Harry can make it through this one…dead or alive.
The second book in this series brings a strong female protagonist along with a well devised mystery that delivers!. If you like strong female characters in the big city, this one based in NYC is ripe for picking.
April 22, 2023
Welcome to the high stress world of celebrity NYC. Liv Spyer is a photographer for her friend's agency and her boyfriend Harry is an Art Crimes Investigator for a government agency. Things are not optimal for either of them at the moment. Harry's quarry is a real chameleon, and Liv's assignment is becoming more unpleasant by the day. Especially when she observes the murder of the megastar's sister, can't prove it, no one wants the cops involved, and she is threatened. But Harry believes her and things change. The publisher's blurb is exceptional, so no need to repeat or do spoilers. Great read with engaging characters, unusual twists, and awesome red herrings.
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free e-book copy from Kensington Books/Kensington Cozies via NetGalley. Thank you!
September 10, 2023
I loved the first book in this series, and this new installment was just as wonderful! As Liv becomes entangled in another mystery, this one surrounding pop
Superstar Bisa, she uses to her mind, wits, and camera to solve the crime.
The relationships and interactions between Liv and her boyfriend, grandparents, and best friend are fun to read; the characters are so well-developed. Liv’s crime solving methods are unique (the photo nerd in me was ecstatic), and the fast pace of the book kept me riveted.
You could read this on it’s own, but I loved the first book and thought it made a difference knowing Liv’s background, family, and friends.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Superstar Bisa, she uses to her mind, wits, and camera to solve the crime.
The relationships and interactions between Liv and her boyfriend, grandparents, and best friend are fun to read; the characters are so well-developed. Liv’s crime solving methods are unique (the photo nerd in me was ecstatic), and the fast pace of the book kept me riveted.
You could read this on it’s own, but I loved the first book and thought it made a difference knowing Liv’s background, family, and friends.
Thank you to #NetGalley and #Kensingtonbooks for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
March 25, 2023
3.5 stars
This is book 2 in the series and is completely standalone. I was intrigued with Liv and boyfriend Harry and want to check out the first book to see how they meet etc.
The book is set in NYC but is very Hollywood. I want to read more about Liv and co and didn't really care for the other characters.
One interesting thing is that the name of the murder victim in the blurb (Courtney) is not the name of the character in the book I read (Anna). Not sure which is out-of-date.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Kensington Books.
This is book 2 in the series and is completely standalone. I was intrigued with Liv and boyfriend Harry and want to check out the first book to see how they meet etc.
The book is set in NYC but is very Hollywood. I want to read more about Liv and co and didn't really care for the other characters.
One interesting thing is that the name of the murder victim in the blurb (Courtney) is not the name of the character in the book I read (Anna). Not sure which is out-of-date.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Kensington Books through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thank you, Kensington Books.
August 20, 2023
A very enjoyable cozy mystery of a Liv Spyers, a photographer who gets assigned to the job of a lifetime - a superstar singer/actress Bisa. While on the photo shoot, she witnesses a possible murder - this assignment just got more interesting. This was a fast paced mystery with characters I found interesting and enjoyable. I really liked Liv and Harry’s relationship - they make a great crime fighting duo. This book was easy to read and super enjoyable. I’m looking forever to the next book if there is a third. Thank you Kensington, the author and Netgalley for this eARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
August 21, 2023
Where is Anna? Was the sister of Bisa, the pop star murdered? Liv doesn't know but she does believe she saw Anna go over the side of a bridge. Liv's been hired to photograph a big weekend for Bisa but things go sideways almost immediately, While she's happy to have the job she's also a little wary but her crime solving skills see her through. At the same time, her romantic interest Harry is dealing with an art thief. This is the second in a series- fine as a standalone- which is charming in some ways (I like Liv's grandparents) and too busy in others. That said, it's a page turner. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. A good read.
August 9, 2023
Enjoyable cosy with a likeable main character. Some grammatical and spelling errors, saying I instead of me, your instead of you're, and maybe I am being picky (or maybe I got out of bed on the wrong side this morning) but…grammatically ‘everything isn’t always about me’ is totally incorrect. The qualifier ‘not’ belongs to ‘everything’, it does not belong to 'always'. However I enjoyed the story.
I received this as an advance copy from the author via NetGalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received this as an advance copy from the author via NetGalley and am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 2, 2023
Usually these series are set in a small town but Beecher beautifully captures NYC & makes it feel absolutely cozy. Add in an solid supporting cast & this is quickly becoming a favourite newer series.
If you like your cozies a with a lot more pizzazz, definitely read this one. You get celebrities, movie premieres, concerts & even art theft! Perfect for some escapism. There is some vibes of Only Murders in the Building. With New York & famous people & our protagonist getting a front row seat to it all. Liv is a fun lead character & I look forward to reading more about her adventures.
If you like your cozies a with a lot more pizzazz, definitely read this one. You get celebrities, movie premieres, concerts & even art theft! Perfect for some escapism. There is some vibes of Only Murders in the Building. With New York & famous people & our protagonist getting a front row seat to it all. Liv is a fun lead character & I look forward to reading more about her adventures.
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