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A Mercy Carr Mystery #5
Home at Night
Beware the blackbirds…
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library.
There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend.
Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library.
There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend.
Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
352 pages, Hardcover
First published October 17, 2023
123 people are currently reading
4840 people want to read
About the author
Paula Munier
27 books618 followersPAULA MUNIER is the author of the bestselling Plot Perfect, The Writer’s Guide to Beginnings, Writing with Quiet Hands, and the acclaimed memoir Fixing Freddie. The first novel in her mystery series, A BORROWING OF BONES (Minotaur, 2018) was inspired by the hero working dogs she met through Mission K9 Rescue, her own Newfoundland-retriever-mix rescue Bear, and her lifelong passion for crime fiction. In her fabulous day job as Senior Literary Agent and Content Strategist for Talcott Notch Literary, she represents many great writers. Her specialties include crime fiction, women’s fiction, upmarket fiction, MG/YA, high-concept SFF, and nonfiction. She lives in New England with her family, Bear, Freddie, and a torbie tabby named Ursula.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 248 reviews
October 1, 2023
What a delightful read! With good characterization and great atmosphere, multiple mysteries, two wonderful canines, and a cat, Paula Munier has sold me on this series.
Home at Night
is the fifth book in the Mercy & Elvis Mysteries series.
It’s nearly Halloween in Northshire, Vermont and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are crowded into Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She and husband Troy Warner had a deal on a new house when it fell through after Troy sold his place. When Grackle Tree Farm comes on the market, they know they want to make an offer. It’s thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor that needs some work. However, there’s something going on at the manor house. With murder and attacks, someone is up to no good.
Mercy is ex-military, proud, stubborn, a nature lover, likes to read, researches diligently, and loves to snoop. She takes the occasional investigative job with Daniel Feinberg. Troy is a game warden, honest, not afraid of hard work, and is a great proponent of protecting plants and animals. He’s not as good at social skills. The remaining characters were a mix that had depth appropriate for their roles. Elvis is a retired bomb-sniffing dog, Muse is Mercy’s cat, and Susie Bear is Troy’s search and rescue partner. Living with them are teenage mother Amy, and her baby, Helena. Amy’s boyfriend Brodie is a frequent visitor.
The narrative is descriptive without slowing the pace and very atmospheric. A haunted manor house, a coded letter, murder, attacks, intruders, and more kept me turning the pages for more. Along the way, readers, as well as Mercy and Troy, learn the history of the farm and its prior owners. Add to this, the Halloween celebrations in the town including a costumed canine parade and this a cast of likeable characters. I didn’t want the story to end.
Overall, this was an engaging storyline with wonderful characters and multiple mysteries to solve. I was easily transported to Vermont in the fall. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. I also enjoyed the literary quotes and references throughout the novel. The book struck the right chord for me.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Paula Munier provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be October 17, 2023.
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My 4.51 rounded to 5 stars is coming soon.
It’s nearly Halloween in Northshire, Vermont and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are crowded into Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She and husband Troy Warner had a deal on a new house when it fell through after Troy sold his place. When Grackle Tree Farm comes on the market, they know they want to make an offer. It’s thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor that needs some work. However, there’s something going on at the manor house. With murder and attacks, someone is up to no good.
Mercy is ex-military, proud, stubborn, a nature lover, likes to read, researches diligently, and loves to snoop. She takes the occasional investigative job with Daniel Feinberg. Troy is a game warden, honest, not afraid of hard work, and is a great proponent of protecting plants and animals. He’s not as good at social skills. The remaining characters were a mix that had depth appropriate for their roles. Elvis is a retired bomb-sniffing dog, Muse is Mercy’s cat, and Susie Bear is Troy’s search and rescue partner. Living with them are teenage mother Amy, and her baby, Helena. Amy’s boyfriend Brodie is a frequent visitor.
The narrative is descriptive without slowing the pace and very atmospheric. A haunted manor house, a coded letter, murder, attacks, intruders, and more kept me turning the pages for more. Along the way, readers, as well as Mercy and Troy, learn the history of the farm and its prior owners. Add to this, the Halloween celebrations in the town including a costumed canine parade and this a cast of likeable characters. I didn’t want the story to end.
Overall, this was an engaging storyline with wonderful characters and multiple mysteries to solve. I was easily transported to Vermont in the fall. I can’t wait to read the rest of the series. I also enjoyed the literary quotes and references throughout the novel. The book struck the right chord for me.
St. Martin’s Press, Minotaur Books and Paula Munier provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. Publication date is currently expected to be October 17, 2023.
----------------------------------------
My 4.51 rounded to 5 stars is coming soon.
February 13, 2024
The story is about a haunted house, some poachers, and a murderer that threatens our house-hunting people. Mercy Carr is a former soldier, and her husband, game warden Troy Warner, have had plenty of experience with murder. We find now that they are house hunting for a larger house, but when an offer falls through and they find themselves crammed into a tiny cabin along with their dogs, Elvis and Susie Bear...who are absolutely adorable by the way...but then...what dog isn't? In that tiny cabin were Mercy and Troy, but also a teen-aged mother that Mercy had met on another case and had taken in... her baby, Helena; and Brodie, Mercy's boyfriend...so 5 people and 2 dogs were a bit much and they really needed that larger house. When the house of Mercy’s dreams comes on the market they make an offer, never imagining that getting it would be a "death-defying" experience. "Grackle Tree Farm", is a beautiful piece of property complete with a decrepit Victorian mansion that is said to be haunted...but how much room can one ghost possibly take up? It's just what they were looking for and perfect for them. The house was once owned by a famous poet, Euphemia “Effie” Whitney-Jones and her longtime companion, who are both now deceased, so the property is finally going on the market. Undeterred by the amount of work the place needs, they WANT it. Meanwhile, Troy and his park ranger friend are searching for poachers who are poaching endangered species, and Mercy’s great uncle, Hugo Fleury, a retired military veteran and intelligence officer, along with Daniel Feinberg, a wealthy neighbor who she’s done several security jobs for, want Mercy to find a mysterious "something" that Effie supposedly hid somewhere on the farm, with only a very cryptic clue. Hugo also knows that another private detective and some other folks are also searching for whatever was hidden by the puzzle-loving poet. Accompanied by Troy’s boss, who provides their official cover, Mercy finds not only the hiding place but along with it the body of the private detective. More deaths will follow before Mercy can unravel the puzzle that involves both her case and Troy's. Someone, in another review, described the book as "a combination of physical and mental feats by both humans and beast". At times those feats become a bit unbelievable but if you can just "dispend your disbeliefs" and remember that it's fiction and "just a story", you will find it's a really good way to spend a few hours of reading time.
September 5, 2023
This is book 5 of the Mercy & Elvis Mysteries, but it is the first one I've read. This read easily as a stand alone, but I think I would enjoy reading the other books in the series.
Description:
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library.
There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend.
Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
My Thoughts:
First of all I loved the characters Mercy, and her husband, Troy. The couple worked together so well and helped each other throughout. Each of them had very special dogs, Mercy with Elvis and Troy with Susie Bear. Gotta say I loved the dogs and how they instinctively protect their owners. They also are trained so well they follow commands no matter what. It's inspiring. There are several mysteries here to solve: the current day murder at the house, the likely posoning of the Druid, the past death of Euphemia Thitney-Jones (the poet), and the poaching operation. There were even a few more crimes happening. This kept my attention and kept me wondering how and if everything was tied together. Lots of twists here.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on October 17, 2023.
Description:
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library.
There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend.
Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
My Thoughts:
First of all I loved the characters Mercy, and her husband, Troy. The couple worked together so well and helped each other throughout. Each of them had very special dogs, Mercy with Elvis and Troy with Susie Bear. Gotta say I loved the dogs and how they instinctively protect their owners. They also are trained so well they follow commands no matter what. It's inspiring. There are several mysteries here to solve: the current day murder at the house, the likely posoning of the Druid, the past death of Euphemia Thitney-Jones (the poet), and the poaching operation. There were even a few more crimes happening. This kept my attention and kept me wondering how and if everything was tied together. Lots of twists here.
Thanks to St. Martin's Press through Netgalley for an advance copy. This book will be published on October 17, 2023.
November 30, 2025
Thank you to the author Paula Munier, publishers Minotaur Books, and NetGalley for an advance digital copy of HOME AT NIGHT. All views are mine.
"He knew that all good things come to those dogs who wait." Loc.744
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I love that Munier writes about wildlife management in this book, it's great info for readers. At this time of year, bird feeders attracted bears as well as birds. Which never ended well for the bears. Responsible Vermonters drew birds to their gardens with flora, not bird feeders. loc. 188
2. I love the role of poetry in this story, it functions sort of like a character. In that, it is somewhat metafictional in a creative way: Poets and poachers both preyed on the lives of others. loc. 1617 and “We’ll get them next time,” promised Gil. “Yes, we will. What is it with poachers?” “What is it with poets? This place is overrun with them.” loc. 1603
3. I have tried to read Joyce more than once with little success, and I adore the advice Mercy gives for handling his literature! " Don't try to understand it. Just let the prose Just wash over you. You'll get the gist." Loc. 935 How tongue in cheek! I'm actually going to try Joyce one more time and take this advice.
4. I like the access to the past the reader is provided through the letters. Not as forceful as a perspective or time jump, so a handy element.
5. The quotes about home at the beginning of each chapter are more than enchoyable. By the way, my favorite is: Home is wherever you leave everything you love and never question that it will be there when you return. —LEO CHRISTOPHER; loc 4784. The epigraphs introduce the chapters but also keep in the forefront of the reader's mind the book's theme, "home," and the role it plays not just in this novel, but in real and fictional stories just like it unspooling everywhere.
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. A lot happens in this book. There are no less than 4 subplots in this mystery that all compete with the central mystery. So the narrative gets weighed down in a few spots. The dialog even gets muddled, though fun and funny honestly, like here: “Poets and other crackpots,” said Brodie. “Not all poets are crackpots,” said Amy. “ They’re mostly geniuses.” “Like I said. Geniuses, poets, they’re all crackpots.” loc. 2349
Munier even addresses this in her Acknowledgements, where she thanks her editor: [I] got carried away— and it took my grounded genius of an editor, the incomparable Pete Wolverton, to drag me and my story out of revision hell and into your hands, dear reader. loc. 5060.
Rating: 🐕🐕🐕🐕 adorable pseudo-humans
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: Aug 22 '23
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley, SMPI
Read this book if you like:
🦝 wildlife
🪶 poetry
🔪 murder mysteries
🔍 non-human sleuth
🤓 word games
"He knew that all good things come to those dogs who wait." Loc.744
Three (or more) things I loved:
1. I love that Munier writes about wildlife management in this book, it's great info for readers. At this time of year, bird feeders attracted bears as well as birds. Which never ended well for the bears. Responsible Vermonters drew birds to their gardens with flora, not bird feeders. loc. 188
2. I love the role of poetry in this story, it functions sort of like a character. In that, it is somewhat metafictional in a creative way: Poets and poachers both preyed on the lives of others. loc. 1617 and “We’ll get them next time,” promised Gil. “Yes, we will. What is it with poachers?” “What is it with poets? This place is overrun with them.” loc. 1603
3. I have tried to read Joyce more than once with little success, and I adore the advice Mercy gives for handling his literature! " Don't try to understand it. Just let the prose Just wash over you. You'll get the gist." Loc. 935 How tongue in cheek! I'm actually going to try Joyce one more time and take this advice.
4. I like the access to the past the reader is provided through the letters. Not as forceful as a perspective or time jump, so a handy element.
5. The quotes about home at the beginning of each chapter are more than enchoyable. By the way, my favorite is: Home is wherever you leave everything you love and never question that it will be there when you return. —LEO CHRISTOPHER; loc 4784. The epigraphs introduce the chapters but also keep in the forefront of the reader's mind the book's theme, "home," and the role it plays not just in this novel, but in real and fictional stories just like it unspooling everywhere.
Three (or less) things I didn't love:
This section isn't only for criticisms. It's merely for items that I felt something for other than "love" or some interpretation thereof.
1. A lot happens in this book. There are no less than 4 subplots in this mystery that all compete with the central mystery. So the narrative gets weighed down in a few spots. The dialog even gets muddled, though fun and funny honestly, like here: “Poets and other crackpots,” said Brodie. “Not all poets are crackpots,” said Amy. “ They’re mostly geniuses.” “Like I said. Geniuses, poets, they’re all crackpots.” loc. 2349
Munier even addresses this in her Acknowledgements, where she thanks her editor: [I] got carried away— and it took my grounded genius of an editor, the incomparable Pete Wolverton, to drag me and my story out of revision hell and into your hands, dear reader. loc. 5060.
Rating: 🐕🐕🐕🐕 adorable pseudo-humans
Recommend? Yes!
Finished: Aug 22 '23
Format: Digital arc, Kindle, NetGalley, SMPI
Read this book if you like:
🦝 wildlife
🪶 poetry
🔪 murder mysteries
🔍 non-human sleuth
🤓 word games
July 30, 2023
It's Halloween in Vermont. Mercy and Troy and their dogs Elvis and Susie Bear thought they had found a new home, but the seller reneged at the last minute, so they are looking at an old house, formerly belonging to a deceased poet, which is reputedly haunted. What could be hidden in the house which is worth killing for? Troy and his partner are also tracking a group which is poaching endangered animals and shipping them abroad. Mercy, curious as always, is determined to find out the answers, even though some of the chances she takes border on a lack of common sense. Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for the ARC.
September 29, 2023
The gangs all back, Mercy and Troy, who are now married. There’s Mercy’s roommate, Amy, and her baby, Helena, along with Amy’s boyfriend, Brodie, and, of course, all the fur babies: Elvis, Susie Bear and Muse (Mercy’s cat). Mercy’s grandmother, Patience (LOVE Patience), is also back along with Mercy’s Mom and Dad, with the former giving Mercy grief over her and Troy’s desire to purchase a completely rundown and dilapidated house (Grackle Tree Farm) that also has a dead body.
The book summary pretty much lays out the first half of the story as well as the primary storyline so I won’t repeat it here. What the book summary is pretty vague about is that there are people/residents who also do NOT want Mercy and Troy buying the farm and are willing to do anything (even murder) to keep them from buying the place. The farm was previously owned by two sisters, Maude and Effie, who was a famous and legendary poet/writer. The sisters have both now passed and the trust is selling the neglected farm. There is also a secondary story of a ring of poachers that Troy and Thrasher are after to save the turtle population in Vermont.
After discovering that the dead body (that died from poisoning), the first half of the story also brings a shooting, of Mercy and Thrasher, and another poisoning that Troy and Mercy discovered in time to save the victim. There is also the discovery of some valuable letters/poems that generates a lot of squabbling between different groups of residents (poets/writers/collectors/Druids etc…). Also, there is a new development with Mercy that makes moving an even bigger priority.
Into the second half, the dead bodies are piling up and the attacks on Mercy are becoming more dangerous. There is also a new discovery of hidden treasures at the farm and the discovery of another heir. LOVED the doggie HOWLaween parade!!! OMG! Sooo precious! The ending comes fast after that in a daring rescue of Mercy again, thanks to Elvis – the King of Bark & Roll😊 Much of the story revolved around the investigation into the attacks and murders and discovering whether they were related to the newly discovered works of art at the farm or the poaching ring.
This was a great Halloween cozy murder mystery that was very enjoyable and satisfying, especially for the upcoming Halloween madness and mayhem, which has already started in my neighborhood😊 I want to thank NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress #HomeAtNight
The book summary pretty much lays out the first half of the story as well as the primary storyline so I won’t repeat it here. What the book summary is pretty vague about is that there are people/residents who also do NOT want Mercy and Troy buying the farm and are willing to do anything (even murder) to keep them from buying the place. The farm was previously owned by two sisters, Maude and Effie, who was a famous and legendary poet/writer. The sisters have both now passed and the trust is selling the neglected farm. There is also a secondary story of a ring of poachers that Troy and Thrasher are after to save the turtle population in Vermont.
After discovering that the dead body (that died from poisoning), the first half of the story also brings a shooting, of Mercy and Thrasher, and another poisoning that Troy and Mercy discovered in time to save the victim. There is also the discovery of some valuable letters/poems that generates a lot of squabbling between different groups of residents (poets/writers/collectors/Druids etc…). Also, there is a new development with Mercy that makes moving an even bigger priority.
Into the second half, the dead bodies are piling up and the attacks on Mercy are becoming more dangerous. There is also a new discovery of hidden treasures at the farm and the discovery of another heir. LOVED the doggie HOWLaween parade!!! OMG! Sooo precious! The ending comes fast after that in a daring rescue of Mercy again, thanks to Elvis – the King of Bark & Roll😊 Much of the story revolved around the investigation into the attacks and murders and discovering whether they were related to the newly discovered works of art at the farm or the poaching ring.
This was a great Halloween cozy murder mystery that was very enjoyable and satisfying, especially for the upcoming Halloween madness and mayhem, which has already started in my neighborhood😊 I want to thank NetGalley and St Martin’s Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #StMartinsPress #HomeAtNight
October 9, 2023
You just know. I'm only a little into the first chapter and I know this is going to be a fantastic book. I was looking for a Halloween read that wasn't a horror and a friend recommended this book. It is a mystery and part of a series where I had never read the author. But, despite those drawbacks I decided to give it a go. A lot of times when you drop into an established series you feel lost. That is not the case here. Past history and established characters, but this story brings you right in and makes you feel right at home. Home. Home is a theme throughout the book and plays a major role in the story. Lots of different paths that finally led to the resolution of the current murder and a murder in the past. Loved the setting of Vermont in the fall, I really want to visit and see the area, even though the locals don't care much for "leaf peepers" like me.
Mercy Carr's family has outgrown her cabin and now she has an opportunity to own a 150-year-old Victorian Manor with a haunted past and 30 acres of woods and wetlands. And a childhood connection for Marcy. Crackle Tree Farm calls to Mercy at least until her dog, Elvis, finds a dead body in the library. But even that doesn't put Mercy off.
The house is steeped in something that calls out to Mercy and with a murder to solve, she is all in. What secrets does this house hold that are worth killing for? The original family who built the house suffered a tragic loss. Another family had a world-famous poet who died mysteriously. A letter found on the dead man leads everyone to believe there may be a treasure hidden in the house. When Mercy and Captain Thrasher are attacked at the house, is just makes Mercy more determined to get to the truth.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Mercy Carr's family has outgrown her cabin and now she has an opportunity to own a 150-year-old Victorian Manor with a haunted past and 30 acres of woods and wetlands. And a childhood connection for Marcy. Crackle Tree Farm calls to Mercy at least until her dog, Elvis, finds a dead body in the library. But even that doesn't put Mercy off.
The house is steeped in something that calls out to Mercy and with a murder to solve, she is all in. What secrets does this house hold that are worth killing for? The original family who built the house suffered a tragic loss. Another family had a world-famous poet who died mysteriously. A letter found on the dead man leads everyone to believe there may be a treasure hidden in the house. When Mercy and Captain Thrasher are attacked at the house, is just makes Mercy more determined to get to the truth.
My thanks to the Publisher and the Author for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
October 18, 2023
Thank you to St. Martins Press and Minotaur for my complimentary ARC and to MacMillan Audio for my complimentary audiobook. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Home at Night is the 4th book in the Mercy and Elvis series. It may be read as a stand alone. Enough back story is given in order to enjoy the story, but personally, I wish I had read the previous books.
Mercy and Troy, along with their dogs, make a great team. I enjoyed the Halloween setting and the mystery surrounding Grackle Tree Farm.
There is quite a bit of murder and mayhem in the small Vermont town, it was hard to keep everything straight. It felt there was just too much going on and I didn’t like being pulled in so many directions m, sadly I started to lose interest.
I did enjoy all the Home quotes at the beginning of the chapters Eventually all the loose ends are tied up and the mysteries are solved.
I paired the audiobook with the Arc and found it to be slow moving. I had just finished listening to another book this narrator had read (Christmas) and I felt her voice didn’t match well this mystery/thriller. Again just my personal opinion. She did a wonderful job with all the voices. I finally stopped listening and just read the book.
Home at Night is the 4th book in the Mercy and Elvis series. It may be read as a stand alone. Enough back story is given in order to enjoy the story, but personally, I wish I had read the previous books.
Mercy and Troy, along with their dogs, make a great team. I enjoyed the Halloween setting and the mystery surrounding Grackle Tree Farm.
There is quite a bit of murder and mayhem in the small Vermont town, it was hard to keep everything straight. It felt there was just too much going on and I didn’t like being pulled in so many directions m, sadly I started to lose interest.
I did enjoy all the Home quotes at the beginning of the chapters Eventually all the loose ends are tied up and the mysteries are solved.
I paired the audiobook with the Arc and found it to be slow moving. I had just finished listening to another book this narrator had read (Christmas) and I felt her voice didn’t match well this mystery/thriller. Again just my personal opinion. She did a wonderful job with all the voices. I finally stopped listening and just read the book.
December 6, 2023
This is book five of the Mercy & Elvis Mystery series, and it was definitely my favorite so far. I loved the atmospheric setting, and the poetry was a fantastic touch! It has mysterious Halloween haunted house vibes and felt like a treasure hunt.
The murder mystery was intriguing, and I adored seeing married life between Mercy and Troy. This series has really gotten interesting! I'm absolutely looking forward to the next addition.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The murder mystery was intriguing, and I adored seeing married life between Mercy and Troy. This series has really gotten interesting! I'm absolutely looking forward to the next addition.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
November 7, 2023
Halloween in Vermont. A spooky house with a body in the library. What could be better? Mercy and Elvis (the dog) are great characters, and this book, the fifth in the series, is a welcome addition. Munier’s writing is eloquent and assured. A great read from one of my favorite authors.
November 2, 2023
Halloween 2004, Grackle Tree Farm, the infamous haunted house of the famous poet Euphemia "Effie" Whitney-Jones, has unwanted visitors.
Mercy Carr isn't afraid of no ghosts, but she's not backing down from the dare to enter the house to see the ghost witch that is known to make an appearance this time of year. The encounter Mercy experiences centers around the living, where she passes out. In her hurry to flee after waking up, she runs into the witch, who returns her book with a gift.
Years later, Mercy is married to Troy and takes in a teenage mother, Amy, her daughter Helena, and Brodie, Amy's boyfriend, along with three furry friends living in a cramped cabin.
Grackle Tree Farm will be on the market, and Mercy and Troy are given first dibs to see the house. A perfect home with lots of room!
A tour of the home takes a disastrous turn when Elvis leads Mercy and Troy to a room where the door is locked. Once inside, they discover a dead body. A mystery surrounded the man found inside the 150-year-old house, but there are more secrets to uncover.
This is my first book by this author, and although this is the fifth book in the series, I had no problem following the storyline. I found all aspects of the story to be engaging, and I loved Elvis and Susie Bear.
I received an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
Mercy Carr isn't afraid of no ghosts, but she's not backing down from the dare to enter the house to see the ghost witch that is known to make an appearance this time of year. The encounter Mercy experiences centers around the living, where she passes out. In her hurry to flee after waking up, she runs into the witch, who returns her book with a gift.
Years later, Mercy is married to Troy and takes in a teenage mother, Amy, her daughter Helena, and Brodie, Amy's boyfriend, along with three furry friends living in a cramped cabin.
Grackle Tree Farm will be on the market, and Mercy and Troy are given first dibs to see the house. A perfect home with lots of room!
A tour of the home takes a disastrous turn when Elvis leads Mercy and Troy to a room where the door is locked. Once inside, they discover a dead body. A mystery surrounded the man found inside the 150-year-old house, but there are more secrets to uncover.
This is my first book by this author, and although this is the fifth book in the series, I had no problem following the storyline. I found all aspects of the story to be engaging, and I loved Elvis and Susie Bear.
I received an advanced reader's copy and voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
October 6, 2023
Perfect timing for a fantastic book. Halloween in Vermont with ghostly sightings at Grackle Tree Farm. Mercy and Elvis, her Malinois, with Troy, her new husband, and Susie Bear, his Newfie, are not the only ones crowded into her small cabin in need of new digs. Despite the body they find there and the ghost witch, they become enamored with Grackle Tree Farm. But there seems to be more happening there, it's teeming with treasure hunters, Druids and poachers. Intriguing mystery with engaging characters. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 10, 2023
This wasn’t at all what I was I expecting based on the description, but I enjoyed the story and the Halloween/fall theme infused mystery.
I was expecting more of that and less procedural elements based on the publishers summary, but I ended up liking the book despite it not really being my typically preferred subgenre.
It’s a solid mystery with likable characters and I loved the dogs’ role in the plot. The writing is a bit simpler than what I tend to prefer and I thought the pregnancy side plot was obnoxious, but on the whole it’s an enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I was expecting more of that and less procedural elements based on the publishers summary, but I ended up liking the book despite it not really being my typically preferred subgenre.
It’s a solid mystery with likable characters and I loved the dogs’ role in the plot. The writing is a bit simpler than what I tend to prefer and I thought the pregnancy side plot was obnoxious, but on the whole it’s an enjoyable read.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
July 12, 2023
I received a free copy of, Home at Night, by Paula Munier, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 5 of the Mercy & Elvis Mysteries series. Mercy's house is crowded an she has always loved Gackle Tree Farm, she knows it haunted but that a plus to her not a minus. Elvis finds a dead body in the library, which intrigues instead of frightens Mercy. This is an enjoyable read with lots of twists and turns. I would be far more anxious and frightened if I were Mercy.
August 24, 2023
Right before Halloween, Mercy and her husband are looking for a home to purchase. When Grackle Tree Farm comes available, it seems perfect. It was previously owned by a poet that Mercy admired, and the history and rumors of haunting are appealing bonuses.
I can't think of anything I disliked about this book, and there was a lot I liked. The dogs, especially Elvis, are great - I always enjoy reading about working dogs doing their job. I also like Mercy's family and her grandmother's cinnamon rolls sound divine. I loved the quotes about home at the start of each chapter - they fit perfectly with the book. And the mystery was good too.
This is the first book I've read in the Mercy & Elvis series, but the earlier four books are now on my "read soon" list.
I can't think of anything I disliked about this book, and there was a lot I liked. The dogs, especially Elvis, are great - I always enjoy reading about working dogs doing their job. I also like Mercy's family and her grandmother's cinnamon rolls sound divine. I loved the quotes about home at the start of each chapter - they fit perfectly with the book. And the mystery was good too.
This is the first book I've read in the Mercy & Elvis series, but the earlier four books are now on my "read soon" list.
December 22, 2023
Enjoyable mystery centered around an old home said to be haunted. I really liked the characters (and their dogs) and the Vermont setting. The story had action, suspense, and plot twists, but was maybe a little more complicated than it needed to be. This book is part of a series but I read it as a stand-alone and it worked fine.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free e-ARC of this book.
October 27, 2025
I think this might have been my favorite of the series so far. There is a lot of Mercy with Troy as they are buying a spooky house that relates to incidents in Mercy's past. We get more of family dynamics and this was pretty fun.
This was a great Halloween read for Spooky house. I think the first scene happens on Halloween though I could be remembering that incorrectly.
November 15, 2023
Compelling Mystery
I loved this book, as I have all the previous books in this marvelous series. The characters, two-legged and four-legged alike, come to life—love Mercy and Troy!—and the Vermont setting is vividly drawn. The mysteries, a whole tangle of them, actually, kept me guessing til the end. I highly recommend this book and the series, especially for lovers of dog and cozy mysteries.
I loved this book, as I have all the previous books in this marvelous series. The characters, two-legged and four-legged alike, come to life—love Mercy and Troy!—and the Vermont setting is vividly drawn. The mysteries, a whole tangle of them, actually, kept me guessing til the end. I highly recommend this book and the series, especially for lovers of dog and cozy mysteries.
May 28, 2023
After their surprise wedding in the previous book, Troy and Mercy are trying to combine their households, but just can't seem to find the right place. When they hear about a local "haunted house" going on the market, it's worth a look. Of course, they hadn't counted on the dead man in the library or the mystery surrounding the previous owner's death. Throw in a conflict between some druids and the local poets, and it turns into an enchanting tale. This may be my favorite Mercy Carr book yet!
Thanks to St Martin's Press for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
Thanks to St Martin's Press for access to a digital ARC via NetGalley.
October 21, 2023
200 pages too much
The author does an excellent job of saying with 20 words that which can be said with 5. The agonizing expression of emotional turmoil at every page, as well as the artificial injection of mystery is tiring, and a waste of words. This book was written like an English major’s project where there was a 300 page minimum assignment. Not my favorite of the series.
The author does an excellent job of saying with 20 words that which can be said with 5. The agonizing expression of emotional turmoil at every page, as well as the artificial injection of mystery is tiring, and a waste of words. This book was written like an English major’s project where there was a 300 page minimum assignment. Not my favorite of the series.
October 26, 2023
The attempt to make this Halloween themed creepy missed the mark for me.
August 5, 2023
"Home at Night" by Paula Munier is a riveting mystery novel that masterfully blends elements of Halloween, haunted legends, hidden treasures, and danger. Set in the enchanting Vermont countryside, the story follows Mercy Carr, who finds herself entangled in a web of secrets and deceit as she ventures into Grackle Tree Farm, an alluring yet sinister place.
The book opens on a spooky note, with winter creeping in and the allure of Halloween festivities in the air. Mercy Carr, her two dogs, and a cat are crammed into her small cabin, leaving her yearning for more space. Her wish comes true when she discovers Grackle Tree Farm, a vast estate with a mysterious history and a haunted reputation. Despite its dark past, Mercy is irresistibly drawn to the place, even when her dog Elvis discovers a lifeless body in the library.
What follows is a roller-coaster of events that involve hidden treasure, cryptic codes, and murder. As the story unfolds, Munier weaves a complex plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The discovery of a coded letter on the victim opens up the possibility of a fortune buried somewhere on the property, adding an element of thrilling treasure hunting to the narrative.
Mercy's partnership with Captain Thrasher is central to the investigation, and their chemistry adds depth to the story. However, their hunt for the treasure takes a dangerous turn when they encounter a masked assailant, leading to a life-threatening confrontation. The subsequent events leave Mercy and her loyal dog Elvis injured, Captain Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, and the pursuit of justice becomes a race against time.
The strength of "Home at Night" lies in Munier's skillful storytelling. She expertly balances moments of tension, emotional depth, and surprising twists, making it a gripping page-turner. Her vivid descriptions of the Vermont setting, especially during Halloween, bring the story to life and immerse readers in the haunting atmosphere of Grackle Tree Farm.
Mercy Carr is a compelling protagonist. Her determination to uncover the truth, coupled with her compassion for animals and loyalty to her friends, makes her a relatable and admirable character. The supporting cast, including her partner Troy and the dogs, contribute to the heartwarming and engaging dynamics throughout the story.
The novel also delves into the theme of greed, as the pursuit of the hidden treasure brings out the worst in people, leading some to commit heinous acts. This exploration of human nature adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers questioning the motives of every character involved.
Although the book excels in storytelling and character development, at times, the pacing may seem slightly uneven. Some sections of the story move at a rapid pace, while others are more reflective, which might not suit all readers' tastes.
In conclusion, "Home at Night" by Paula Munier is a thrilling mystery that seamlessly combines the allure of Halloween, the chill of haunted legends, and the excitement of treasure hunting. With its well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and atmospheric setting, the book is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts. Paula Munier has once again proven herself as a talented storyteller, and readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages until the satisfying and unexpected conclusion.
The book opens on a spooky note, with winter creeping in and the allure of Halloween festivities in the air. Mercy Carr, her two dogs, and a cat are crammed into her small cabin, leaving her yearning for more space. Her wish comes true when she discovers Grackle Tree Farm, a vast estate with a mysterious history and a haunted reputation. Despite its dark past, Mercy is irresistibly drawn to the place, even when her dog Elvis discovers a lifeless body in the library.
What follows is a roller-coaster of events that involve hidden treasure, cryptic codes, and murder. As the story unfolds, Munier weaves a complex plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats. The discovery of a coded letter on the victim opens up the possibility of a fortune buried somewhere on the property, adding an element of thrilling treasure hunting to the narrative.
Mercy's partnership with Captain Thrasher is central to the investigation, and their chemistry adds depth to the story. However, their hunt for the treasure takes a dangerous turn when they encounter a masked assailant, leading to a life-threatening confrontation. The subsequent events leave Mercy and her loyal dog Elvis injured, Captain Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, and the pursuit of justice becomes a race against time.
The strength of "Home at Night" lies in Munier's skillful storytelling. She expertly balances moments of tension, emotional depth, and surprising twists, making it a gripping page-turner. Her vivid descriptions of the Vermont setting, especially during Halloween, bring the story to life and immerse readers in the haunting atmosphere of Grackle Tree Farm.
Mercy Carr is a compelling protagonist. Her determination to uncover the truth, coupled with her compassion for animals and loyalty to her friends, makes her a relatable and admirable character. The supporting cast, including her partner Troy and the dogs, contribute to the heartwarming and engaging dynamics throughout the story.
The novel also delves into the theme of greed, as the pursuit of the hidden treasure brings out the worst in people, leading some to commit heinous acts. This exploration of human nature adds depth to the narrative and keeps readers questioning the motives of every character involved.
Although the book excels in storytelling and character development, at times, the pacing may seem slightly uneven. Some sections of the story move at a rapid pace, while others are more reflective, which might not suit all readers' tastes.
In conclusion, "Home at Night" by Paula Munier is a thrilling mystery that seamlessly combines the allure of Halloween, the chill of haunted legends, and the excitement of treasure hunting. With its well-crafted plot, engaging characters, and atmospheric setting, the book is a must-read for mystery enthusiasts. Paula Munier has once again proven herself as a talented storyteller, and readers will find themselves eagerly turning the pages until the satisfying and unexpected conclusion.
November 8, 2023
Thank you so much to NetGalley and Paula Munier for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for Home at Night. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the place: Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library. There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend. Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
I didn’t realize this was a series. I’ll have to go back and read the other books. I loved the plot of this book. The Victorian mansion sounded amazing and I was excited for the spooky vibes. The first half of the book was really fun for me. I started to lose a little interest when I realized it wasn’t quite what I thought it would be. I thought there would be more with the Victorian house and fixing it up. There was a lot more melodrama than I thought there would be. It seemed like a lot was happening to Mercy with getting hurt and everything. The surprise was a little annoying with the interrupting other people and not being able to come out and say it. But overall, it felt like a cozy mystery. I would check out other books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys small town mysteries!
It’s Halloween in Vermont, winter is coming, and five humans, two dogs, and a cat are a crowd in Mercy Carr’s small cabin. She needs more room―and she knows just the place: Grackle Tree Farm, with thirty acres of woods and wetlands and a Victorian manor to die for. They say it’s haunted by the ghosts of missing children and lost poets and a murderer or two, but Mercy loves it anyway. Even when Elvis finds a dead body in the library. There’s something about Grackle Tree Farm that people are willing to kill for―and Mercy needs to figure out what before they move in. A coded letter found on the victim points to a hidden treasure that may be worth a fortune―if it’s real. She and Captain Thrasher conduct a search of the old place―and end up at the wrong end of a Glock. A masked man shoots Thrasher, and she and Elvis must take him down before he murders them all. Under fire, she and Elvis manage to run the guy off, but not before they are wounded, leaving Thrasher fighting for his life in the hospital, Mercy on crutches, and Elvis on the mend. Now it’s up to Mercy and Troy and the dogs to track down the masked murderer in a county overflowing with leaf peepers, Halloween revelers, and treasure hunters and bring him to justice before he strikes again and the treasure is lost forever, along with the good name of Grackle Tree Farm….
I didn’t realize this was a series. I’ll have to go back and read the other books. I loved the plot of this book. The Victorian mansion sounded amazing and I was excited for the spooky vibes. The first half of the book was really fun for me. I started to lose a little interest when I realized it wasn’t quite what I thought it would be. I thought there would be more with the Victorian house and fixing it up. There was a lot more melodrama than I thought there would be. It seemed like a lot was happening to Mercy with getting hurt and everything. The surprise was a little annoying with the interrupting other people and not being able to come out and say it. But overall, it felt like a cozy mystery. I would check out other books by this author.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys small town mysteries!
October 20, 2023
Home at Night is the fifth book of the Mercy Carr series. Mercy Carr is a female soldier who returned from Afghanistan with her K-9 partner. She is now married to a park ranger who has his own dog that accompanies him. They live in Vermont.
The story starts with Mercy as a child accepting a dare to spend a night in the local haunted house. There is a legend of the Ghost Witch of Grackle Tree who is supposedly seen there. The legend is also connected to the owner of the property, a famous poet. Even after Mercy runs into the witch, she decides that she loves the old house with or without ghosts.
The story starts in current time with Mercy married to Troy and they share Mercy’s cabin with a young woman and her child. They start their search for a larger home as the old mansion with Grackle Tree is put on the market. Everything is fine until a body is found in the library.
While Mercy and Troy investigate the murder, the reader is introduced to many of the locals. Mercy is asked to search for something hidden by the previous owner and while doing so with Troy’s boss, they are attacked. The boss is shot, and Mercy gets shot in the foot.
Now everyone wants to know what is going on, so Mercy and Troy follow the clues that eventually lead them to a killer.
This was an enjoyable read. The description is rich. You can almost see, and smell fall in Vermont. The characters are well developed. There is plenty of action to keep the story moving forward. If I had any complaint, it might be that there was too much going on. I sometimes felt like I needed a minute to catch my breath. This is an interesting story especially for anyone who loves dogs.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries. Once you have read it, you may need to check out this author’s backlist.
The story starts with Mercy as a child accepting a dare to spend a night in the local haunted house. There is a legend of the Ghost Witch of Grackle Tree who is supposedly seen there. The legend is also connected to the owner of the property, a famous poet. Even after Mercy runs into the witch, she decides that she loves the old house with or without ghosts.
The story starts in current time with Mercy married to Troy and they share Mercy’s cabin with a young woman and her child. They start their search for a larger home as the old mansion with Grackle Tree is put on the market. Everything is fine until a body is found in the library.
While Mercy and Troy investigate the murder, the reader is introduced to many of the locals. Mercy is asked to search for something hidden by the previous owner and while doing so with Troy’s boss, they are attacked. The boss is shot, and Mercy gets shot in the foot.
Now everyone wants to know what is going on, so Mercy and Troy follow the clues that eventually lead them to a killer.
This was an enjoyable read. The description is rich. You can almost see, and smell fall in Vermont. The characters are well developed. There is plenty of action to keep the story moving forward. If I had any complaint, it might be that there was too much going on. I sometimes felt like I needed a minute to catch my breath. This is an interesting story especially for anyone who loves dogs.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys cozy mysteries. Once you have read it, you may need to check out this author’s backlist.
October 19, 2023
When mercies grandmother patient shows up in the Anna banana she is coming with good news Grackle Tree Farm is up for sale and she has even better news mercy has first dibbs and grandma has made her an appointment in 30 minutes. This is why mercy finds her and Elvis heading to the Home little does she know however there’s already two men there one is there trying to hide things the other is they’re trying to uncover what’s hidden and by the time mercy gets there in murder will have taken place and to think she was worried about it being haunted! After the letter mercy finds in the dead man’s pocket she thinks she may have an inkling of what’s going on but when uncle Hugo and his best buddy the billionaire show up she knows she has no idea. Before it’s over hear about parties thrown in France attended by Artist family inheritance disputes a love triangle someone will be shot but before it’s over mercy learns that will be another member of the family and I’m not talking about the four-legged variety. I love these books I love mercies family I love these mysteries so to say whether I love the book would be an understatement and did I mention how much I love uncle Hugo he is a man who has done it all and yet he seems so underrated I love that about him this was a great mystery and one any cozy mystery thing and will love it’s a little longer than the normal cozy mysteries I’ve read and if you do read this one you can read it as a standalone but it is a much fuller story Efron in order. This is a book I highly recommend I want thanks Saint Martin’s press and Net Galley for my free Ark copy please forgive any mistakes as I am blind and dictate my review.
June 27, 2024
This was so fun with just the right touch of spooky to give Halloween vibes in a light cozy mystery fall way. (Yes, I read this at the wrong time of year- going through a backlog of ARCs I was sent and neglected.) I wish I had gotten to this one sooner. Although I hadn't read the first four books in the series, I had no trouble picking up this one and fully enjoying it. I immediately added the first in the series to my TBR after finishing it!
The legends of Grackle Tree Farms are numerous- haunted by a witch, sacred Druid grounds, a sordid history with a famous Gothic poet- but that doesn't stop Mercy and her new husband Troy from falling in love in the property. Not even discovering a dead body in the attic during their tour deters them. The two help lead the investigation to put the mysteries of Grackle Tree Farm to rest- but not all things are ready to settle and simmer.
I enjoyed this! It had delicious fall atmospheric vibes that I need assumer is starting and I am miserable in the heat. It's history of the house and gothic tones with the ghost were intriguing. The characters all kept the story moving in the right ways. The pacing was also perfect. You could keep up and nothing dragged. It was exactly what you want in a cozy mystery. I cannot wait to read more in this collection.
Thank-you so much Paula Munier and Minotaur Books for my free advanced reader copy. My review is unbiased and opinions my own.
#PaulaMunier #MinotaurInfluencer #MinotaurInfluencers #MercyCarr #HomeatNight #HomeatNightBook #MercyCarrseries
The legends of Grackle Tree Farms are numerous- haunted by a witch, sacred Druid grounds, a sordid history with a famous Gothic poet- but that doesn't stop Mercy and her new husband Troy from falling in love in the property. Not even discovering a dead body in the attic during their tour deters them. The two help lead the investigation to put the mysteries of Grackle Tree Farm to rest- but not all things are ready to settle and simmer.
I enjoyed this! It had delicious fall atmospheric vibes that I need assumer is starting and I am miserable in the heat. It's history of the house and gothic tones with the ghost were intriguing. The characters all kept the story moving in the right ways. The pacing was also perfect. You could keep up and nothing dragged. It was exactly what you want in a cozy mystery. I cannot wait to read more in this collection.
Thank-you so much Paula Munier and Minotaur Books for my free advanced reader copy. My review is unbiased and opinions my own.
#PaulaMunier #MinotaurInfluencer #MinotaurInfluencers #MercyCarr #HomeatNight #HomeatNightBook #MercyCarrseries
March 22, 2025
Home at Night
4 Stars
Newlyweds Mercy Carr and Troy Warner, together with Elvis and Susie Bear, not to mention Amy, Helena, and Brody, are looking for a new, larger place. When Mercy learns that Grackle Tree Farm, with its Victorian manor house, acres of land, and resident ghost, is on the market, she knows it will be perfect for them. Unfortunately, there is something about Grackle Tree Farm that someone is willing to kill for. When Elvis finds a body in the library, it's up to Mercy and company to track down the killer and solve the farm's mysteries.
Series note: This is book #5 in the series. While the mystery in each book is independent, there is ongoing character development.
Set in the days leading up to Halloween in Vermont, Home at Night is eerily atmospheric. Munier skillfully integrates the various tropes and festivities associated with the holiday within the narrative. The treasure hunt-like clues, cryptic codes, and secret hiding spots are also engaging, although one particular clue is actually staring Mercy in the face, and she doesn't get it as quickly as she should have.
The plot is comprised of several different mysteries associated with Grackle Tree Farm. In addition to the body in the library, there is the disappearance of the original owner's daughter and the death of famous poetess Euphemia Whitney Jones. There is also a turtle poaching subplot. These become overwhelming at times as keeping the characters straight is difficult.
There are also updates on the lives of the recurring characters, and it will be interesting to see how the Carr-Warner tribe deal with upcoming changes.
Overall, this is an entertaining addition to the series. Munier successfully delves into some compelling themes regarding the nature of human greed, the pursuit of glory and the need for conservation.
4 Stars
Newlyweds Mercy Carr and Troy Warner, together with Elvis and Susie Bear, not to mention Amy, Helena, and Brody, are looking for a new, larger place. When Mercy learns that Grackle Tree Farm, with its Victorian manor house, acres of land, and resident ghost, is on the market, she knows it will be perfect for them. Unfortunately, there is something about Grackle Tree Farm that someone is willing to kill for. When Elvis finds a body in the library, it's up to Mercy and company to track down the killer and solve the farm's mysteries.
Series note: This is book #5 in the series. While the mystery in each book is independent, there is ongoing character development.
Set in the days leading up to Halloween in Vermont, Home at Night is eerily atmospheric. Munier skillfully integrates the various tropes and festivities associated with the holiday within the narrative. The treasure hunt-like clues, cryptic codes, and secret hiding spots are also engaging, although one particular clue is actually staring Mercy in the face, and she doesn't get it as quickly as she should have.
The plot is comprised of several different mysteries associated with Grackle Tree Farm. In addition to the body in the library, there is the disappearance of the original owner's daughter and the death of famous poetess Euphemia Whitney Jones. There is also a turtle poaching subplot. These become overwhelming at times as keeping the characters straight is difficult.
There are also updates on the lives of the recurring characters, and it will be interesting to see how the Carr-Warner tribe deal with upcoming changes.
Overall, this is an entertaining addition to the series. Munier successfully delves into some compelling themes regarding the nature of human greed, the pursuit of glory and the need for conservation.
October 16, 2023
The Mercy Carr mystery series by Paula Munier has a new fan in me! I loved the first book I read in the series (but not the first of the series) - Home at Night. It has a little bit of haunted house creepy, which is perfect for this time of year, a compelling personal story, and a bunch of interconnected mysteries to solve. Plus, there are many literary references - I think I'm in book love!
Mercy Carr lives in her hometown (after a stint with the military) with her new husband, two dogs, a cat, a teen mother, and the teen's adorable daughter. It's a houseful of wonderful characters who I just loved reading about. Mercy holds a lot of scars, but she's on track to fulfilling all her dreams, even ones she didn't realize she had.
When Mercy and Troy decide to buy the local haunted house, which has recently come on the market, they immediately find a dead body in a locked room of the house, and that's just the beginning of the body count and a complex trail to solve all of the mysteries before Mercy becomes a victim. What is it about the house that is leading to murder, and why? I loved the investigation's windy path, with many twists and turns and shocking revelations. It's fast-paced with loads of suspense and even some thriller moments.
I can't wait to read more books in this series!
Mercy Carr lives in her hometown (after a stint with the military) with her new husband, two dogs, a cat, a teen mother, and the teen's adorable daughter. It's a houseful of wonderful characters who I just loved reading about. Mercy holds a lot of scars, but she's on track to fulfilling all her dreams, even ones she didn't realize she had.
When Mercy and Troy decide to buy the local haunted house, which has recently come on the market, they immediately find a dead body in a locked room of the house, and that's just the beginning of the body count and a complex trail to solve all of the mysteries before Mercy becomes a victim. What is it about the house that is leading to murder, and why? I loved the investigation's windy path, with many twists and turns and shocking revelations. It's fast-paced with loads of suspense and even some thriller moments.
I can't wait to read more books in this series!
October 15, 2023
4 stars
This is a surprisingly well constructed mystery with enough twists and turns and more of a PG-13 vibe than I'm used to reading, especially during the month of October! While I have a pretty consistent rule about not reading subsequent books in a series first, I broke that rule this time, and while I definitely want to go back and read the first four, I'm also happy I deviated from the usual plan. This was a fun read even without some of the more detailed backstory.
Mercy and Troy have somewhat recently started their lives together in a legal capacity, but they don't get much of a break from other people's trouble. When they go to view their potential new home, they stumble upon a mystery that is begging to be resolved (and, first, made much more complicated).
I really appreciate how developed these characters and their backstory are, especially considering the genre. Even better? The focus on these characters' awesome large dogs and on literature. These are a few of my most favorite things!
This is a fun read that folks who are a little more on the gentle side of mysteries can also enjoy. I'll be looking into this writer's back catalogue next!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
This is a surprisingly well constructed mystery with enough twists and turns and more of a PG-13 vibe than I'm used to reading, especially during the month of October! While I have a pretty consistent rule about not reading subsequent books in a series first, I broke that rule this time, and while I definitely want to go back and read the first four, I'm also happy I deviated from the usual plan. This was a fun read even without some of the more detailed backstory.
Mercy and Troy have somewhat recently started their lives together in a legal capacity, but they don't get much of a break from other people's trouble. When they go to view their potential new home, they stumble upon a mystery that is begging to be resolved (and, first, made much more complicated).
I really appreciate how developed these characters and their backstory are, especially considering the genre. Even better? The focus on these characters' awesome large dogs and on literature. These are a few of my most favorite things!
This is a fun read that folks who are a little more on the gentle side of mysteries can also enjoy. I'll be looking into this writer's back catalogue next!
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Audio for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
July 13, 2025
At first I felt like this wasn’t as interesting as the first 4 books in the series, too much about poetry, (which is not my thing, and also I have trouble understanding poetry). But as I read on and tried to understand the importance of the many years deceased poet I realized there was really a lot going on here with these uncovered poems, enough where people were willing to kill for.
The story evolves around the Gackle Tree Farm Manor, a place Mercy has always been fascinated by, whether it’s truly haunted or not. When the manor comes up for sale, Mercy and Troy know they want to buy it, on their tour of the manor Elvis leads them to a room where a man is found murdered. From there more bodies appear along with many lost poems. In the end all the poems begin to make sense to me, in part from Mercy deciphering them to me in English.
Anxious to read the next book and see how the move in goes.
The story evolves around the Gackle Tree Farm Manor, a place Mercy has always been fascinated by, whether it’s truly haunted or not. When the manor comes up for sale, Mercy and Troy know they want to buy it, on their tour of the manor Elvis leads them to a room where a man is found murdered. From there more bodies appear along with many lost poems. In the end all the poems begin to make sense to me, in part from Mercy deciphering them to me in English.
Anxious to read the next book and see how the move in goes.
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