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A Travelling Celebrant Mystery #2
The Shadow of Daph
One missing body. Two poisoned people. Three curious crimes.
The forest town of Shady Bend is known for its crafts, preserves, and local produce. It is not known for disappearing bodies let alone a mysterious spate of crimes!
Daphne came to officiate a funeral for Edwina Drinkwater but in a shocking twist, the deceased vanishes before making it to the grave. The sudden death of a mourner - a gossip who kept records of other people's indiscretions fires up Daphne's inner sleuth. Was the murder payback?
Meanwhile, John pursues his own secrets mission to find someone special from Daphne's past.
Who has hidden Edwina’s remains? Was it the neighbour who wants her land, the disgraced local doctor, or her fiercest competitor in the world of preserves and jams?
With judging underway at the local country show, the suspects come together all determined to obtain Edwina’s famous secret sauce recipe. But as the body count rises, Daphne is the only person standing between the killer and the truth.
The Shadow of Daph is book 2 in the Daphne Jones Mysteries, with a fun and quirky look at Australian agricultural shows and small town life. A light and quirky story with a nosy main character.
The forest town of Shady Bend is known for its crafts, preserves, and local produce. It is not known for disappearing bodies let alone a mysterious spate of crimes!
Daphne came to officiate a funeral for Edwina Drinkwater but in a shocking twist, the deceased vanishes before making it to the grave. The sudden death of a mourner - a gossip who kept records of other people's indiscretions fires up Daphne's inner sleuth. Was the murder payback?
Meanwhile, John pursues his own secrets mission to find someone special from Daphne's past.
Who has hidden Edwina’s remains? Was it the neighbour who wants her land, the disgraced local doctor, or her fiercest competitor in the world of preserves and jams?
With judging underway at the local country show, the suspects come together all determined to obtain Edwina’s famous secret sauce recipe. But as the body count rises, Daphne is the only person standing between the killer and the truth.
The Shadow of Daph is book 2 in the Daphne Jones Mysteries, with a fun and quirky look at Australian agricultural shows and small town life. A light and quirky story with a nosy main character.
- GenresCozy Mystery
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 12, 2021
25 people are currently reading
79 people want to read
About the author
Phillipa Nefri Clark
88 books364 followersPhillipa lives just outside a beautiful town in country Victoria, Australia. She also lives in the many worlds of her imagination and stockpiles stories beside her laptop.
She writes from the heart about love, dreams, secrets, discovery, the sea, the world as she knows it… or wishes it could be. She loves happy endings, heart-pounding suspense, and characters who stay with you long after the final page.
With a passion for music, the ocean, nature, reading, and writing, she is often found in the vegetable garden pondering a new story.
She writes from the heart about love, dreams, secrets, discovery, the sea, the world as she knows it… or wishes it could be. She loves happy endings, heart-pounding suspense, and characters who stay with you long after the final page.
With a passion for music, the ocean, nature, reading, and writing, she is often found in the vegetable garden pondering a new story.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
September 27, 2021
Daphne and John are off again on their travels, this time to a funeral where Daphne is to lead the commemoration. Of course everything which can go wrong does, even so far as the body disappearing before the burial.
The mystery involves a missing (dead) person and several murders. There are lots of red herrings too and I was amused when one of my suspects got murdered themselves. One way to prove one's innocence!
I love the way Daphne and John enter into the investigations but still manage to keep themselves safe. They both have a few secrets from each other in this book but never in a way which could harm their relationship. One day though, John will have to come clean about how much he dislikes Daph's home made cookies.
There is a very sweet ending which may cause a few happy tears. I enjoyed the whole book enormously and look forward to more of Daph and John's adventures in the future.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The mystery involves a missing (dead) person and several murders. There are lots of red herrings too and I was amused when one of my suspects got murdered themselves. One way to prove one's innocence!
I love the way Daphne and John enter into the investigations but still manage to keep themselves safe. They both have a few secrets from each other in this book but never in a way which could harm their relationship. One day though, John will have to come clean about how much he dislikes Daph's home made cookies.
There is a very sweet ending which may cause a few happy tears. I enjoyed the whole book enormously and look forward to more of Daph and John's adventures in the future.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2021
Daphne and John Jones arrived in Shady Bend with their little caravan, Bluebell, behind them, in preparation for the funeral Daphne was officiating the following day. Daph’s new job as celebrant was keeping the two of them interested and they found that life on the road agreed with them. John would do a spot of fishing while Daph was officiating, as well as keep his genealogy interest fed at the local cemeteries. But when one of the pallbearers collapsed and the coffin spilled to the ground, the mourners were shocked to find it was empty. Who had stolen the body?
Before long two other people had died under suspicious circumstances and the police officer, Adam, was overwhelmed by all that was happening. So Daph and John decided to do a little of their own sleuthing – after all, it’d be good to find the culprit so they could leave Shady Bend and head to their next destination and a wedding. But there was danger amongst the confusion – would Daphne get the answers before anyone else lost their life?
The Shadow of Daph is the 2nd in the Daphne Jones Mysteries by Aussie author Phillipa Nefri Clark and I thoroughly enjoyed it! A perfect cozy, with our two ‘grey nomads’ following the weddings and funerals around the country, solving crimes along the way. I’m looking forward to #3 very much, and highly recommend The Shadow of Daph to fans of the genre.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Before long two other people had died under suspicious circumstances and the police officer, Adam, was overwhelmed by all that was happening. So Daph and John decided to do a little of their own sleuthing – after all, it’d be good to find the culprit so they could leave Shady Bend and head to their next destination and a wedding. But there was danger amongst the confusion – would Daphne get the answers before anyone else lost their life?
The Shadow of Daph is the 2nd in the Daphne Jones Mysteries by Aussie author Phillipa Nefri Clark and I thoroughly enjoyed it! A perfect cozy, with our two ‘grey nomads’ following the weddings and funerals around the country, solving crimes along the way. I’m looking forward to #3 very much, and highly recommend The Shadow of Daph to fans of the genre.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2021
Book two in this fabulous new series and it was such a great read, I love Daphne Jones and her husband John, they are so easy to get along with as they travel around country Victoria in their caravan Bluebell so Daph can perform marriages and funerals in her role as celebrant sleuth because as Daph and John have found out that sadly there seems to be a murder mystery or two to solve on the way, come along for a witty and fabulous journey.
Daph and John have arrived in a small town Shady Bend to perform a funeral for local woman Edwina, this town is known for its crafts, preserves, local produce and a beautiful garden or two, but when they discover that the casket is empty and Edwina is missing this is not what Daph was hoping for seeing as she made this stop to perform this funeral as a special request on their way to officiate at a wedding.
Things get worse when two more people die and Daph’s suspicions grow as to how they died and on more uncovering there are lots of secrets and plans for uncovering a secret recipe that add to the mystery. Daph and John are very impressed with the local police officer Adam and are soon taking notes and digging deep into this strange town and the people who live here and as the mystery grows John is also researching his own mystery that is hopefully going to make Daph happy.
This really is another great cozy mystery, Daph is such a great sleuth, caring and meticulous with her research into uncovering the culprit, this one had me thinking I can tell you, there are so many great characters and anyone of them could have been the killer, but Daph and John nailed it and their help was much appreciated. This one had such a great ending as well and of course I do look forward to the next adventure with Daph and John.
I do highly recommend this book and the series if you are looking for a totally enjoyable story that is witty and fabulous, I loved it, MS Nefri Clark writes such awesome characters and stories it is like being with family.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
Daph and John have arrived in a small town Shady Bend to perform a funeral for local woman Edwina, this town is known for its crafts, preserves, local produce and a beautiful garden or two, but when they discover that the casket is empty and Edwina is missing this is not what Daph was hoping for seeing as she made this stop to perform this funeral as a special request on their way to officiate at a wedding.
Things get worse when two more people die and Daph’s suspicions grow as to how they died and on more uncovering there are lots of secrets and plans for uncovering a secret recipe that add to the mystery. Daph and John are very impressed with the local police officer Adam and are soon taking notes and digging deep into this strange town and the people who live here and as the mystery grows John is also researching his own mystery that is hopefully going to make Daph happy.
This really is another great cozy mystery, Daph is such a great sleuth, caring and meticulous with her research into uncovering the culprit, this one had me thinking I can tell you, there are so many great characters and anyone of them could have been the killer, but Daph and John nailed it and their help was much appreciated. This one had such a great ending as well and of course I do look forward to the next adventure with Daph and John.
I do highly recommend this book and the series if you are looking for a totally enjoyable story that is witty and fabulous, I loved it, MS Nefri Clark writes such awesome characters and stories it is like being with family.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
January 15, 2023
Thank you Phillipa for gifting us a copy to read and review.
A cozy mystery with the return of Daphne Jones, celebrant for wedding and funerals and the occasional sleuthing.
The Shadow Of Daph sees her arriving in the town of Shady Bend to help uncover a crime.
A community town welcomes Daphne and her husband, John to officiate the funeral of Edwina Drinkwater.
But before the occasion the body disappears.
Then another person dies and then someone else.
For a district that’s known for produce, jams and preserves it’s now becoming known for murder and crime.
What’s going on?
Who’s telling lies?
Will the truth be revealed…..
With Daphne on the case, all the mayhem will be solved.
Book two sees the amateur detective and her meddling ways uncovering the latest whodunnit.
Phillipa’s engaging writing, fun dialogue and mysterious plot make this a winner for fans of the classic murder mystery.
Enjoying the banter and interaction between husband and wife and with humour and wit thrown in, it’s a fun read.
I will be checking out the next instalment of this entertaining series.
A cozy mystery with the return of Daphne Jones, celebrant for wedding and funerals and the occasional sleuthing.
The Shadow Of Daph sees her arriving in the town of Shady Bend to help uncover a crime.
A community town welcomes Daphne and her husband, John to officiate the funeral of Edwina Drinkwater.
But before the occasion the body disappears.
Then another person dies and then someone else.
For a district that’s known for produce, jams and preserves it’s now becoming known for murder and crime.
What’s going on?
Who’s telling lies?
Will the truth be revealed…..
With Daphne on the case, all the mayhem will be solved.
Book two sees the amateur detective and her meddling ways uncovering the latest whodunnit.
Phillipa’s engaging writing, fun dialogue and mysterious plot make this a winner for fans of the classic murder mystery.
Enjoying the banter and interaction between husband and wife and with humour and wit thrown in, it’s a fun read.
I will be checking out the next instalment of this entertaining series.
December 27, 2025
Daph and John Johns arrive in Shady Bend so Daphne can officiate a funeral. Of course things do not go smoothly, and Daph finds all of the deceased’s closest arguing and angry with the dead woman and each other. So, not a peaceful ceremony…. Except it’s not even that because the body isn’t present. And one of the pallbearers dies after eating some possibly suspect jam.
So, much as she doesn’t want to get involved with yet another murder, Daph pulls out a notebook and begins jotting down her questions and observations.
The local police officer, Adam Smith, suddenly has a suspicious death and a missing embalmed corpse to find. And then two more sudden deaths. And John, who’s been doing his own investigation in cemeteries, makes big strides forward.
Daph begin piecing things together, which seems to centre on the dead woman’s property, and a highly coveted secret sauce recipe which the dead woman has not yet handed over to anyone of her circle.
That Daph and John would both be successful is a given, but there’s an extra sweet resolution for Daphne that I did not expect in this second enjoyable Daphne book.
Thank you to Booksprout and to Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
So, much as she doesn’t want to get involved with yet another murder, Daph pulls out a notebook and begins jotting down her questions and observations.
The local police officer, Adam Smith, suddenly has a suspicious death and a missing embalmed corpse to find. And then two more sudden deaths. And John, who’s been doing his own investigation in cemeteries, makes big strides forward.
Daph begin piecing things together, which seems to centre on the dead woman’s property, and a highly coveted secret sauce recipe which the dead woman has not yet handed over to anyone of her circle.
That Daph and John would both be successful is a given, but there’s an extra sweet resolution for Daphne that I did not expect in this second enjoyable Daphne book.
Thank you to Booksprout and to Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my review.
October 6, 2021
Daphne Jones loves her new career as a travelling celebrant, visiting different small towns as a celebrant to marry happy couples or help with farewells.
She and her husband John recently retired from their real estate agency in River's End and enjoy the freedom of travelling with their caravan, Bluebell.
This is the second book I have read about the couple and has them arriving in Shady Bend in the opening chapters where Daphne has been asked to officiate at the funeral of Edwina.
At the gravesite an accident with the casket reveals there is no body inside , very unsettling for the family as well as Daphne.
Police become involved and when some of the locals die from apparent poisoning, Daphne and John continue their stay in the Recreation Park , supporting the family and friends as well as trying to get to the bottom of the mysteries .
While Daphne is involved in a number of interviews and meetings with the community John enjoys exploring the area , taking photographs and checking names in the cemetery , "working on genealogy" he tells Daphne.
This is an entertaining read and I loved the references to judging pickles and preserves at the country show, an essential part of rural communities. It has a strong ending and I look forward to further books which expand the story of this modern retired couple
Phillipa Nefri Clark lives in Victoria, Australia and much of her writing is based in this area.
Daphne and John first appeared in her River's End series, in four books from The Stationmaster's Cottage onwards but it is not necessary to read those books to enjoy the Daphne Jones Mysteries.
Thanks Phillipa Nefri Clark for the e copy of The Shadow of Daph in return for an honest review .
She and her husband John recently retired from their real estate agency in River's End and enjoy the freedom of travelling with their caravan, Bluebell.
This is the second book I have read about the couple and has them arriving in Shady Bend in the opening chapters where Daphne has been asked to officiate at the funeral of Edwina.
At the gravesite an accident with the casket reveals there is no body inside , very unsettling for the family as well as Daphne.
Police become involved and when some of the locals die from apparent poisoning, Daphne and John continue their stay in the Recreation Park , supporting the family and friends as well as trying to get to the bottom of the mysteries .
While Daphne is involved in a number of interviews and meetings with the community John enjoys exploring the area , taking photographs and checking names in the cemetery , "working on genealogy" he tells Daphne.
This is an entertaining read and I loved the references to judging pickles and preserves at the country show, an essential part of rural communities. It has a strong ending and I look forward to further books which expand the story of this modern retired couple
Phillipa Nefri Clark lives in Victoria, Australia and much of her writing is based in this area.
Daphne and John first appeared in her River's End series, in four books from The Stationmaster's Cottage onwards but it is not necessary to read those books to enjoy the Daphne Jones Mysteries.
Thanks Phillipa Nefri Clark for the e copy of The Shadow of Daph in return for an honest review .
December 16, 2025
Daphne Jones, a recently qualified celebrant, was due to be driving to another wedding after solving a murder at her previous engagement but, after a request for assistance, is taking a detour with husband John to officiate at a funeral on their way. Hoping for a far quieter time the couple park their little caravan, Bluebell, in the town of Shady Bend only to find themselves in the middle of more trouble when the deceased's casket is found to be empty! With no one seemingly safe from an apparently indiscriminate killer, Daphne and John know they have to help the understaffed and overworked local detective solve the case. Unsure who to trust and with John seemingly distracted Daph knows its up to her to look more deeply into the inhabitants of the beautiful mountain town before she too becomes a victim!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to the publishers, Storm Publishing, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book two in this cosy series, which was previously published as The Shadow of Daph, is a great follow on from the first, even if the local busybody shares my name! Although there are deaths aplenty this is a real feel good story with two very likeable main protagonists, Daphne and John, who are just the type of people you'd want around in times of crisis. The storyline twists, turns, and provides numerous red herrings as well as giving the reader the chance to learn a little about Daphne’s difficult childhood. I loved this and recommend it highly.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this thanks to the publishers, Storm Publishing, but the opinions expressed are my own. Book two in this cosy series, which was previously published as The Shadow of Daph, is a great follow on from the first, even if the local busybody shares my name! Although there are deaths aplenty this is a real feel good story with two very likeable main protagonists, Daphne and John, who are just the type of people you'd want around in times of crisis. The storyline twists, turns, and provides numerous red herrings as well as giving the reader the chance to learn a little about Daphne’s difficult childhood. I loved this and recommend it highly.
October 13, 2021
The Shadow of Daph is the second book in Phillipa Nefri Clark’s Cozy Mystery series featuring Daphne Jones, Mobile Celebrant and amateur sleuth, her ever-loving husband John, and their little caravan Bluebell. Like her first book in the series, it is a fabulous read, full of humour, red herrings, twists and turns.
This time Daphne is heading to officiate at a funeral in Shady Bend, but when the dearly departed goes missing, and a pall bearer collapses and dies, what should have been a simple farewell turns into a fascinating mystery. Nothing is quite as it seems; everyone seems to be hiding something, and tension is high. Is Edwina’s secret sauce recipe related to her disappearance, and if so, why?
Meanwhile we wonder what is Daph’s husband John searching cemeteries for? Where do Daph’s batches of homemade cookies keep going? And what is the terrifying secret Daph is holding inside in relation to country fairs.
The strength of the relationship between Daph and John is wonderful to be behold, and Daph is the perfect meddling her nose where it doesn’t belong amateur sleuth required in a cozy mystery. I love the way she observes people, makes notes and works through them to pull her thoughts together, and the way John in his implacable way complements and supports her.
The characters in Shady Bend are all interesting, with their own private little quirks that can make them both loveable and loathsome, sometimes both at the same time.
If you enjoy a well written Cozy, then you’d be hard pressed to go past Phillipa’s Daph series. Highly recommended.
This time Daphne is heading to officiate at a funeral in Shady Bend, but when the dearly departed goes missing, and a pall bearer collapses and dies, what should have been a simple farewell turns into a fascinating mystery. Nothing is quite as it seems; everyone seems to be hiding something, and tension is high. Is Edwina’s secret sauce recipe related to her disappearance, and if so, why?
Meanwhile we wonder what is Daph’s husband John searching cemeteries for? Where do Daph’s batches of homemade cookies keep going? And what is the terrifying secret Daph is holding inside in relation to country fairs.
The strength of the relationship between Daph and John is wonderful to be behold, and Daph is the perfect meddling her nose where it doesn’t belong amateur sleuth required in a cozy mystery. I love the way she observes people, makes notes and works through them to pull her thoughts together, and the way John in his implacable way complements and supports her.
The characters in Shady Bend are all interesting, with their own private little quirks that can make them both loveable and loathsome, sometimes both at the same time.
If you enjoy a well written Cozy, then you’d be hard pressed to go past Phillipa’s Daph series. Highly recommended.
January 6, 2026
Of Funerals and Feuds is another delightful instalment in Phillipa Nefri Clark’s Travelling Celebrant Mystery series, and it confirms just how much I’m enjoying the cosy mystery genre.
Set in the mountain town of Shady Bend, this story kicks off with a funeral that goes spectacularly wrong when the casket turns out to be empty. From there, the mystery only deepens as a series of suspicious deaths unfolds, each more intriguing than the last. The small-town setting is rich with secrets, gossip, and hidden motives, making it the perfect backdrop for a cosy mystery with bite.
I absolutely love returning to Daphne Jones and her partnership with John, along with the much-loved caravan Bluebell, which adds so much charm to the story. Daphne is a wonderful protagonist — clever, determined, and impossible not to root for — and the supporting cast is well-rounded and believable.
Phillipa Nefri Clark never fails to deliver a tightly plotted mystery with engaging characters and plenty of twists. I was kept guessing throughout and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. If you enjoy cosy mysteries with strong characters, a quirky setting, and an intriguing puzzle at the heart of it all, this one is well worth picking up.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author and BookSprout for the opportunity to read an advance copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Set in the mountain town of Shady Bend, this story kicks off with a funeral that goes spectacularly wrong when the casket turns out to be empty. From there, the mystery only deepens as a series of suspicious deaths unfolds, each more intriguing than the last. The small-town setting is rich with secrets, gossip, and hidden motives, making it the perfect backdrop for a cosy mystery with bite.
I absolutely love returning to Daphne Jones and her partnership with John, along with the much-loved caravan Bluebell, which adds so much charm to the story. Daphne is a wonderful protagonist — clever, determined, and impossible not to root for — and the supporting cast is well-rounded and believable.
Phillipa Nefri Clark never fails to deliver a tightly plotted mystery with engaging characters and plenty of twists. I was kept guessing throughout and thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it. If you enjoy cosy mysteries with strong characters, a quirky setting, and an intriguing puzzle at the heart of it all, this one is well worth picking up.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author and BookSprout for the opportunity to read an advance copy. This review reflects my honest opinion.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2021
Daphne Jones and her husband, John is traveling in their caravan, named Bluebell, that they restored lovingly. Daph is a traveling celebrant who performs ceremonies, funerals and other celebrations. They arrive in Shady Bend for a funeral. When it’s time for the funeral, they discover that the body wasn’t in the casket. Now there is a mystery of where the body is. There seems like so many people who could be guilty. No body and now 3 deaths. Who is doing it? Daph is a sleuth who will try to figure out who’s the murderer. Will they find the person or persons? Will Daph get to finally have the burial for the missing body? Why are people getting murdered? It’s a wonderful story with twist and turns. Keeps you guessing who it is till the end. Daph’s husband is also looking into a mystery of his own. Something that will make Daph happy. This is the second book. I can’t wait for the next mystery. Well worth the read.
October 9, 2021
Despite not generally being a cosy mystery fan, I've found myself weirdly drawn to Daph and her adventures in celebrancy and I've got to say - this book (book 2) is even better than the last.
Daph is now my friend, with all her quirks and insecurities and sunny disposition. But all is not lovey dovey weddings and with murdered grooms in Daphs travels around Victoria. Why just on her next stop after sleuthing her way through a muder mystery, Daph is back in the thick of it all while attempting to officiate the burial of someone already dead and ready to be buried - or maybe not!
An easy few hours job end up being a little more than that when Daph finds herself in a town full of frenemies who all have secrets, and backstabbing tendencies - some more literally than others. Not to mention the question of where the dearly deceased has run away to. And of course Daph's ever faithful and beloved husband is by her side and doing a little side sleuthing of his own.
I really think you'll all enjoy this one as much as I did, it's a warped literary version of Cleudo - who killed Edwina? Was it the butler in the parlour with a candlestick or was it one of the many close friends - all of whom seemed to hate her? Only reading to the end will reveal all - so prepare to do some sleuthing this week.
https://hairbear8.wixsite.com/website
Daph is now my friend, with all her quirks and insecurities and sunny disposition. But all is not lovey dovey weddings and with murdered grooms in Daphs travels around Victoria. Why just on her next stop after sleuthing her way through a muder mystery, Daph is back in the thick of it all while attempting to officiate the burial of someone already dead and ready to be buried - or maybe not!
An easy few hours job end up being a little more than that when Daph finds herself in a town full of frenemies who all have secrets, and backstabbing tendencies - some more literally than others. Not to mention the question of where the dearly deceased has run away to. And of course Daph's ever faithful and beloved husband is by her side and doing a little side sleuthing of his own.
I really think you'll all enjoy this one as much as I did, it's a warped literary version of Cleudo - who killed Edwina? Was it the butler in the parlour with a candlestick or was it one of the many close friends - all of whom seemed to hate her? Only reading to the end will reveal all - so prepare to do some sleuthing this week.
https://hairbear8.wixsite.com/website
October 24, 2021
Interesting
I enjoyed the book but not as well as her other books. The story was well written with lots of twists and turns. Most of the characters were likeable. I found that there was too much navel gazing for my taste. I would recommend it to others.
I enjoyed the book but not as well as her other books. The story was well written with lots of twists and turns. Most of the characters were likeable. I found that there was too much navel gazing for my taste. I would recommend it to others.
November 25, 2021
The Shadow of Daph by Phillipa Nefri Clark. The continuing adventures of Daph and her husband John. Daph has the job of performing the funeral service for Edwina in a small country town. During the service it is discovered that the coffin is empty. Events then takes twists and turns as they try and discover what has happened to Edwina and who has the most to gain from her death and the death of others in the town. Daph also discovers some family history along the way. A great read.
October 18, 2021
An entertaining read. Daph and John arrive in a new small Victorian town to officiate a funeral. Except after finding the casket empty, people start dropping dead left, right and centre! There are secrets galore in Shady Bend, but celebrant-sleuth Daphne is on the case!
Can't wait for her next adventure!
Can't wait for her next adventure!
October 28, 2021
Another great read by Phillipa Nefri Clark
I love reading Phillipa’s books. Always a great mystery. Daphne Di not disappoint with her sleuthing. This story had me trying to guess once again who had done it. When Daphne is called on for the funeral of Edwina who would’ve thought a funeral service could turn into such a mystery murder. Can’t wait to read Tales of Life and Daph when it is released.
I love reading Phillipa’s books. Always a great mystery. Daphne Di not disappoint with her sleuthing. This story had me trying to guess once again who had done it. When Daphne is called on for the funeral of Edwina who would’ve thought a funeral service could turn into such a mystery murder. Can’t wait to read Tales of Life and Daph when it is released.
October 21, 2021
Mystery and death surround these sleuths in Book 2.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
In Of Funerals and Feuds by Phillipa Nefri Clark, Daphne Jones and her husband John are on the road again, this time so Daphne can officiate at a funeral in Shady Bend. There appears to be mixed feelings about the deceased, Edwina Drinkwater, with harsh words spoken by her daughter at the funeral planning session. When Edwina’s body is discovered missing when the casket falls open during the funeral, suspicions start flying. Why would someone steal her body? There are some great clues as to the culprit.
You have to wonder what is going on in this town when three of Edwina’s friends die in quick succession. Is there a serial killer or a case of food poisoning that ended badly?
I like how a puzzle of Daphne’s past is solved with John discovering who her birth father is and giving her a new family to be a part of. I wonder just how bad her cookies are. It is alluded to by John when he thinks about how they aren’t the best cookies, but they are made with love. I can see how he wouldn’t want to hurt her feelings and tell her they are not that good.
This story is as delightful as the previous one, Of Marriage and Murder. I love the relationship between Daphne and John and getting resolutions to questions I had in the first book. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
You have to wonder what is going on in this town when three of Edwina’s friends die in quick succession. Is there a serial killer or a case of food poisoning that ended badly?
I like how a puzzle of Daphne’s past is solved with John discovering who her birth father is and giving her a new family to be a part of. I wonder just how bad her cookies are. It is alluded to by John when he thinks about how they aren’t the best cookies, but they are made with love. I can see how he wouldn’t want to hurt her feelings and tell her they are not that good.
This story is as delightful as the previous one, Of Marriage and Murder. I love the relationship between Daphne and John and getting resolutions to questions I had in the first book. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series.
Thank you Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Bluebell is taking Daphne and John to the town of Shady Bend. She has been asked to officiate a funeral for a well beloved woman in their community, Edwina Drinkwater. While Daphne is busy with the funeral, John will go sightseeing and do some genealogy research, which is his hobby. When the a pallbearer collapses and the coffin opens, it is revealed that the coffin is empty and Edwina's body is missing. After 2 other bodies are found dead and Senior Constable Adam Smith is too overwhelmed with all the bodies, Daphne and John begin their sleuthing to help find the body and the killer.
I love this series so much and now we find out why John is so adamant about researching each town, their cemetery and their genealogy records. He is such a sweet and thoughtful man. I enjoyed how there were many suspects and they all had things to hide and some had really strong feelings towards the deceased. It feels like I am there in their caravan embarking on a new journey.
Thank you Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Booksprout for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love this series so much and now we find out why John is so adamant about researching each town, their cemetery and their genealogy records. He is such a sweet and thoughtful man. I enjoyed how there were many suspects and they all had things to hide and some had really strong feelings towards the deceased. It feels like I am there in their caravan embarking on a new journey.
Thank you Netgalley, Storm Publishing and Booksprout for this eARC. All opinions are entirely my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
A clever, fast-paced "whodunit" that kept me guessing!
In Of Funerals & Feuds (originally The Shadow of Daph), we follow celebrant Daphne Jones to the mountain town of Shady Bend. What should have been a standard service for the prominent Edwina Drinkwater turns into a disaster when the casket is opened to reveal... nothing. As the second installment of the A Travelling Celebrant Mystery series, the stakes feel high as a missing body quickly turns into a string of suspicious deaths.
I enjoyed the twisty nature of this mystery. Phillipa Nefri Clark does an excellent job with redirections; just when I thought I had the killer figured out, a new suspect threw me off the trail. Daphne is a relatable lead and her journey into the web of small-town blackmail kept me turning pages late into the night.
I’m looking forward to book three! I highly recommend this to cozy mystery lovers who enjoy well-paced plots and quirky, secretive communities.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for providing this book for review via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
In Of Funerals & Feuds (originally The Shadow of Daph), we follow celebrant Daphne Jones to the mountain town of Shady Bend. What should have been a standard service for the prominent Edwina Drinkwater turns into a disaster when the casket is opened to reveal... nothing. As the second installment of the A Travelling Celebrant Mystery series, the stakes feel high as a missing body quickly turns into a string of suspicious deaths.
I enjoyed the twisty nature of this mystery. Phillipa Nefri Clark does an excellent job with redirections; just when I thought I had the killer figured out, a new suspect threw me off the trail. Daphne is a relatable lead and her journey into the web of small-town blackmail kept me turning pages late into the night.
I’m looking forward to book three! I highly recommend this to cozy mystery lovers who enjoy well-paced plots and quirky, secretive communities.
Thank you to Storm Publishing for providing this book for review via Booksprout. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy
This is a review of the series not of the single story as I enjoyed each instalment and wanted to recommend the series.
Daphne Jones is one of those rare cosy sleuths who feels instantly alive on the page. A travelling celebrant who keeps wandering into trouble she turns every new town into a stage for secrets grudges and wonderfully tangled mysteries. The idea of a celebrant stepping into investigations is refreshingly original and gives the series a distinctive voice. Each book brings a new community with its own quirks and tensions and the mysteries unfold with clever clues gentle humour and a steady heartbeat of compassion. Daphne’s curiosity kindness and sharp intuition make her the perfect guide through small town dramas and unexpected twists. A comforting series that keeps your mind alert and your heart firmly on Daphne’s side.
I thank the author for the digital copy and all opinions are my own.
Daphne Jones is one of those rare cosy sleuths who feels instantly alive on the page. A travelling celebrant who keeps wandering into trouble she turns every new town into a stage for secrets grudges and wonderfully tangled mysteries. The idea of a celebrant stepping into investigations is refreshingly original and gives the series a distinctive voice. Each book brings a new community with its own quirks and tensions and the mysteries unfold with clever clues gentle humour and a steady heartbeat of compassion. Daphne’s curiosity kindness and sharp intuition make her the perfect guide through small town dramas and unexpected twists. A comforting series that keeps your mind alert and your heart firmly on Daphne’s side.
I thank the author for the digital copy and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This wonderful series continues with devoted couple, Daphne and John, who are touring Australia in their caravan, Bluebell while Daphne works her dream job as a celebrant.
When a body mysteriously disappears at a funeral, murder, mayhem and red herrings ensue. As ever, our intrepid sleuth meticulously researches her way through all potential suspects and motives before she's added to the victim list.
The joy of these books lies in the dynamic between all the characters, both good and bad. Daphne’s witty inner thoughts, and her unwavering loyalty and kindness, with John's support and obvious love for his childhood sweetheart are both uplifting and endearing.
With clever ups, downs and a twisty narrative, this book was a truly delicious (homemade cookies anyone?) read with a fantastic emotional ending. I can't wait for Daphne and John’s next adventure!
When a body mysteriously disappears at a funeral, murder, mayhem and red herrings ensue. As ever, our intrepid sleuth meticulously researches her way through all potential suspects and motives before she's added to the victim list.
The joy of these books lies in the dynamic between all the characters, both good and bad. Daphne’s witty inner thoughts, and her unwavering loyalty and kindness, with John's support and obvious love for his childhood sweetheart are both uplifting and endearing.
With clever ups, downs and a twisty narrative, this book was a truly delicious (homemade cookies anyone?) read with a fantastic emotional ending. I can't wait for Daphne and John’s next adventure!
January 10, 2026
This is book two of a series and is as good if not better than book one. Again we follow Celebrant Daphne Jones conducts (or at least tries to conduct) a funeral. But how do you conduct a funeral when the casket is empty and where is the dead person who is supposed to be in said casket?
With John by her side they help to investigate this strange scenario with suspects, twists and of course a few happenings between Daph and John. This book will have you reading straight through as you join the investigation and delve into what is going on.
I loved this one and wait with anticipation for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
With John by her side they help to investigate this strange scenario with suspects, twists and of course a few happenings between Daph and John. This book will have you reading straight through as you join the investigation and delve into what is going on.
I loved this one and wait with anticipation for the next book in the series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Love book two of A Travelling Celebrant Mystery series; Daphne and John are surrounded by chaos, calamity, and companionship as they work together with the local Detective to solve the case. John's personal project comes to a point of resolution during the investigation and Daphne faces down some of her own most debilitating fears.
I love how Ms. Clark takes real-world principles and actions, placing them into a fictional world that works very much like our own. It is incredibly encouraging to find real steps to face real fears presented in an approachable manner.
Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love how Ms. Clark takes real-world principles and actions, placing them into a fictional world that works very much like our own. It is incredibly encouraging to find real steps to face real fears presented in an approachable manner.
Highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a great story. Daphne is asked to officiate a funeral at short notice. Well, it turns into quite the disaster! A missing body and people dropping like flies. Plenty of feuding amongst the deceased's friends and family. Daphne uses her observational and puzzling skills to help unravel all the twists to help solve the cases. I'm really enjoying Daphne as a character and, so far in this series, she's met some truly colourful characters. A really enjoyable read.
Thanks to Booksprout, Storm Publishing, and Phillipa Nefri Clark for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Thanks to Booksprout, Storm Publishing, and Phillipa Nefri Clark for the free ARC. All opinions are my own.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
Daphne arrives in Shady Bend to conduct a funeral, but the day takes a decidedly strange turn when the casket is empty. As mourners start dropping like flies, Daphne suspects something sinister is afoot. Between a blackmail book and a potentially lethal sauce, Shady Bend is full of secrets, and Daphne must uncover them before she becomes the next victim.
This cozy mystery is full of unexpected twists. As with the previous book, Daphne and her husband are sweet characters without much depth, while the suspects are rude and abrasive. The story is relaxing and uncomplicated.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This cozy mystery is full of unexpected twists. As with the previous book, Daphne and her husband are sweet characters without much depth, while the suspects are rude and abrasive. The story is relaxing and uncomplicated.
Thanks, Booksprout, for the ARC I received. This is my honest and voluntary review.
January 10, 2022
A book for 2nd series that put my trill and I want to finish it right away because I want to know the truth but not happen Phillipa Nefri Clark the author want me to find the real message of her book to give a connection to the reader to followed the story with hanging question but I love the way she write the story no dull moment it just a murder mystery or two to solve I need a cup of coffee while reading it all I can say You don't have to lie, just tell her to ignore when someone is lying to know and find the truth real happen
December 22, 2024
Who else but Daphne Jones could turn up to officiate a funeral and end up solving a murder mystery. Love this book, this is the second in the series that I have read and thoroughly enjoyed. ALso love that John, her husband does some sleuthing of his own and finds Daphne's Dad. (Slight spoiler).
Highly recommend these books to anyone who likes reading murder mysteries similar to Miss Marple but based in small Victorian towns that John, Daphne and Bluebell (their caravan) visit to officiate weddings and in this case funerals.
Highly recommend these books to anyone who likes reading murder mysteries similar to Miss Marple but based in small Victorian towns that John, Daphne and Bluebell (their caravan) visit to officiate weddings and in this case funerals.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
It is a cozy mystery story. Daphne and John are asked to travel to Shady Bend to celebrate the funeral of Edwina Drinkwater. At the beginning of the ceremony, there is a huge surprise for everybody. What is it? Then, to test Daphne's ability to solve mysteries, some other unexpected things happen. John got interested in solving mysteries, too. At the end, a family reunion happened. I recommend reading this book!.
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.
January 7, 2026
In the second book we follow Daphnie and John to the next small town to perform a funeral service.
Daphne had been referred by her previous clients. She meets a unique group of folks who all have a different opinion and perspective of the deceased.
When the coffin ends up empty and the body missing, Daphne can't help but start to sleuth.
I did enjoy John solving his genealogy project for Daphne.
It was a fun, well paced cozy mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Daphne had been referred by her previous clients. She meets a unique group of folks who all have a different opinion and perspective of the deceased.
When the coffin ends up empty and the body missing, Daphne can't help but start to sleuth.
I did enjoy John solving his genealogy project for Daphne.
It was a fun, well paced cozy mystery.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 8, 2026
Book 2 of the A Travelling Celebrant Mystery series. For maximum enjoyment read the books in series order.
'Perfect for anyone who loves a cozy mystery with heart, humour, and a heroine you’ll want to befriend.'
The characters continue to grow and develop and remain quirky. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'Perfect for anyone who loves a cozy mystery with heart, humour, and a heroine you’ll want to befriend.'
The characters continue to grow and develop and remain quirky. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend.
Grab a copy, kick back and enjoy!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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