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The Hopgood Hall Murder Mysteries #1
A Date to Die For
The start of brand-new Cozy Crime series! Welcome to Hopgood Hall.
An unlikely duo…
When investigative journalist, Alexi Ellis, falls victim to cutbacks, she and Cosmo, her anti-social feral cat, head for beautiful Hopgood Hall, where they plan to lick their wounds in the boutique hotel run by her old friends, Cheryl and Drew Hopgood.
A missing woman…
But when she arrives Alexi discovers Cheryl and Drew both distraught. Their close friend, Natalie Parker, who recently settled in the area, has gone missing. Alexi’s sure the woman has just taken a trip somewhere, but she still has a nose for a story and agrees to look into it.
A case to solve!
So too does ex-Met Police detective turned private eye, Jack Maddox. Natalie Parker had been using his sister’s online dating agency and Jack needs to find her before his sister’s business is ruined.
Reluctantly, Alexi, Jack - and Cosmo! - join forces to find out what happened to Natalie. But soon they discover secrets that someone desperately wants to make sure are never revealed!
An unlikely duo…
When investigative journalist, Alexi Ellis, falls victim to cutbacks, she and Cosmo, her anti-social feral cat, head for beautiful Hopgood Hall, where they plan to lick their wounds in the boutique hotel run by her old friends, Cheryl and Drew Hopgood.
A missing woman…
But when she arrives Alexi discovers Cheryl and Drew both distraught. Their close friend, Natalie Parker, who recently settled in the area, has gone missing. Alexi’s sure the woman has just taken a trip somewhere, but she still has a nose for a story and agrees to look into it.
A case to solve!
So too does ex-Met Police detective turned private eye, Jack Maddox. Natalie Parker had been using his sister’s online dating agency and Jack needs to find her before his sister’s business is ruined.
Reluctantly, Alexi, Jack - and Cosmo! - join forces to find out what happened to Natalie. But soon they discover secrets that someone desperately wants to make sure are never revealed!
268 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 3, 2023
302 people are currently reading
387 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 25, 2023
Had a hard time believing that the main character would even know how to do some of the stuff she said she could. I get this is a story but just felt to unbelievable
July 31, 2025
meh. nothing memorable or special.
February 6, 2023
This was the start of a new cosy mystery series (I actually didn't realise it was book one as I felt there was a lot of detail mentioned that may have been in a previous book)
Alexi and her feline company (who thinks he's a superior human being) Cosmos pack up their life in London after being let go from her high flying journalist career to visit her oldest friends in the country and whilst their she's turns PI to investigate the disappearance of a local lady who has vanished and it's in this quest she joins forces with Jack a real PI also on the trail of the missing woman.
I started off by enjoying the book but then found myself struggling to stay engaged and focused as it felt a bit long winded and drawn out. I'm a big fan of an amateur sleuth but this one didn't have all the magic for me.
Alexi and her feline company (who thinks he's a superior human being) Cosmos pack up their life in London after being let go from her high flying journalist career to visit her oldest friends in the country and whilst their she's turns PI to investigate the disappearance of a local lady who has vanished and it's in this quest she joins forces with Jack a real PI also on the trail of the missing woman.
I started off by enjoying the book but then found myself struggling to stay engaged and focused as it felt a bit long winded and drawn out. I'm a big fan of an amateur sleuth but this one didn't have all the magic for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2023
This was a great cosy mystery that had loads to uncover. Natalie, our missing lady, has the most secrets of any character I’ve ever known! Alexi and Jack seem to spend most of the book learning more and more about her with every person they speak to, and not all of it good.
They make a great investigative pair, and I look forward to reading more about them as the series progresses. I loved the writing style of this book, and it seemed to go on and on - it certainly felt longer than its 270 pages and I mean that in a good way.
An easy to read mystery that definitely gets your brain working, I had no idea who it was or what had happened and was surprised how it all came together at the end.
They make a great investigative pair, and I look forward to reading more about them as the series progresses. I loved the writing style of this book, and it seemed to go on and on - it certainly felt longer than its 270 pages and I mean that in a good way.
An easy to read mystery that definitely gets your brain working, I had no idea who it was or what had happened and was surprised how it all came together at the end.
March 2, 2023
This felt like it had all the bits it needed, but somehow it never quite hit the right notes. It took me absolutely forever to get through this as I kept putting it down and not wanting to pick it up again. This may have been a "just me" problem but I found the pace quite leisurely to the point of being annoying. (For example, they catch the big bad at 80% and the wrap up takes that much time to finish.) If you like a slower pace, you may find this a good read, but it was not for me.
April 27, 2025
The story is ok, nice easy reading without major plot twists. The reason I give 4 stars is the amazing idea of the author to write about such a strong connection between the main character and her cat Cosmo. Being a cat owner and lover I just giggled and smiled about the relationship these 2 have. Brilliantly done.
November 12, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
March 1, 2023
Thanks to @bookandtonic (Boldwood Books) for the ARC and the opportunity to be in the blog tour!
I really enjoyed this book. The story moves along at a good pace and has a few layers of things going on at the same time. Written in dual point of view.
Alexi and Cosmo are the perfect duo, I loved Cosmo's personality and antics throughout the book.
There was just the right amount of suspense, comedy, and flirting here for a great book, and kept it not too heavy
Always check trigger warnings and age ratings.
** I was granted a free ARC of this book for my opinion.
I really enjoyed this book. The story moves along at a good pace and has a few layers of things going on at the same time. Written in dual point of view.
Alexi and Cosmo are the perfect duo, I loved Cosmo's personality and antics throughout the book.
There was just the right amount of suspense, comedy, and flirting here for a great book, and kept it not too heavy
Always check trigger warnings and age ratings.
** I was granted a free ARC of this book for my opinion.
March 19, 2024
I didn’t care for either of the MCs (or the cat, frankly), and the mystery wasn’t very engaging. Skimmed the last 20%. Meh.
June 28, 2023
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
A Date to Die For is the first Hopgood Hall cozy by E.V. Hunter. Released 3rd Feb 2023 by small press indie Boldwood Books, it's 268 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.The second book is also available on KU and a third in the series is due out late 3rd quarter 2023 from the same publisher.
This is a well written, engaging, and finely constructed amateur sleuth mystery pairing an investigative journalist on hiatus, with a handsome PI looking for a missing person related to a family member's dating agency. There's a strong side element of romance, so readers who prefer romance in their cozies will likely enjoy that aspect of the story. The characters are well rendered and mostly believable and the pacing and plot are well done and satisfyingly resolved.
There are potentially distressing elements for sensitive readers including sexual abuse, and prostitution. There is no explicit content or language and the abuse is included from the distant past. As is typical for cozies, there is no graphic on page violence (except in the prologue, briefly), and the language is clean.
Spelling and vernacular are British standard English, but won't likely pose a problem for readers in context.
Four stars. A promising start. With two books extant in the series, and a third due out in Sept '23, it would make a good choice for a short binge or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
A Date to Die For is the first Hopgood Hall cozy by E.V. Hunter. Released 3rd Feb 2023 by small press indie Boldwood Books, it's 268 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.The second book is also available on KU and a third in the series is due out late 3rd quarter 2023 from the same publisher.
This is a well written, engaging, and finely constructed amateur sleuth mystery pairing an investigative journalist on hiatus, with a handsome PI looking for a missing person related to a family member's dating agency. There's a strong side element of romance, so readers who prefer romance in their cozies will likely enjoy that aspect of the story. The characters are well rendered and mostly believable and the pacing and plot are well done and satisfyingly resolved.
There are potentially distressing elements for sensitive readers including sexual abuse, and prostitution. There is no explicit content or language and the abuse is included from the distant past. As is typical for cozies, there is no graphic on page violence (except in the prologue, briefly), and the language is clean.
Spelling and vernacular are British standard English, but won't likely pose a problem for readers in context.
Four stars. A promising start. With two books extant in the series, and a third due out in Sept '23, it would make a good choice for a short binge or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
November 5, 2023
3.5 stars rounded to 4 only because the romantic trope was not made permanent.
I think that a lot of how I decide to rate books these days comes down to my mood and expectations prior to picking up the book. I dove into this one, looking for a fast-paced cozy crime thriller that I can complete in a couple of hours and it did do justice to it. Perhaps, if I was in the mood to read a more "fantastical" plot, I might've given this a 2.5 or 3.
Anyhoo, on the story itself - It's a standard cosy, small-town murder. Alexi, a high-achieving journalist is let go from her job by her newspaper and moves to visit her best friend (who she hasn't seen in ages) in a small town for a couple of days to let things cool. But of course, there wouldn't be a story if things stayed quiet. Her best friend's friend is missing and the police are doing squat about it, so it's up to Alexi to find out what's wrong.
A male protagonist, in the form of an ex-cop turned private investigator, teams up with Alexi (for reasons of his own) - and together the duo dig out the mystery behind the disappearance of the woman. There is also severe sexual tension between the leads and I'm only giving this a 4-star because that romantic entanglement did not see a fulfilment as the book comes to a close. It's just left hanging in the air.
I do see the point of its presence in the story. With a limited suspect pool, a small town, with no access to police babble and detective speak filling up the pages, its presence does make sense to me. I also enjoyed the presence of the cat that can make out a human for what they are. It sort of adds to the coziness appeal of the story.
If you are in between serious reads and looking for something light to finish in an afternoon, I'd recommend picking this one up.
I think that a lot of how I decide to rate books these days comes down to my mood and expectations prior to picking up the book. I dove into this one, looking for a fast-paced cozy crime thriller that I can complete in a couple of hours and it did do justice to it. Perhaps, if I was in the mood to read a more "fantastical" plot, I might've given this a 2.5 or 3.
Anyhoo, on the story itself - It's a standard cosy, small-town murder. Alexi, a high-achieving journalist is let go from her job by her newspaper and moves to visit her best friend (who she hasn't seen in ages) in a small town for a couple of days to let things cool. But of course, there wouldn't be a story if things stayed quiet. Her best friend's friend is missing and the police are doing squat about it, so it's up to Alexi to find out what's wrong.
A male protagonist, in the form of an ex-cop turned private investigator, teams up with Alexi (for reasons of his own) - and together the duo dig out the mystery behind the disappearance of the woman. There is also severe sexual tension between the leads and I'm only giving this a 4-star because that romantic entanglement did not see a fulfilment as the book comes to a close. It's just left hanging in the air.
I do see the point of its presence in the story. With a limited suspect pool, a small town, with no access to police babble and detective speak filling up the pages, its presence does make sense to me. I also enjoyed the presence of the cat that can make out a human for what they are. It sort of adds to the coziness appeal of the story.
If you are in between serious reads and looking for something light to finish in an afternoon, I'd recommend picking this one up.
February 5, 2023
Newly redundant journalist Alexi Ellis has ditched her rat of a boyfriend, rented out her London flat and retreated to the horse racing village of Lambourn in Berkshire to reassess her life under the care of her old best friend Cheryl and her husband Drew at his family home of Hopgood Hall which they have turned into a boutique hotel, although that description may be a little questionable right now due to an influx of local jockeys and stable boys to help pay the bills. The couple tell her about their friend Natalie who has gone missing and their worry that she has met someone dodgy on the dating website she recently joined, maybe a man after her money, and Alexi just cannot help investigating. She soon runs into private investigator Jack Maddox, a former Met detective and brother of the Racing Hearts Dating Agency owner Katie who has also asked him to find Natalie. Two heads are better than one, even if they’re not quite sure they trust each other at the start. Further investigations reveal Natalie has a murky past so could this be the reason for her disappearance or has she herself been up to no good? And will they find her alive?
This step away from revenge thrillers into the world of cosy mysteries works very well for this author, and the absolute star of the book simply has to be Cosmo, the still pretty feral and incredibly large cat who inspires hero worship in Toby the terrier and mortal fear in anyone he takes a dislike to. The main characters are easy to picture and take to very quickly, and each one brings their own skills to a new partnership which I hope will see many more investigations for Alexi, Jack and Combo. 5*
This step away from revenge thrillers into the world of cosy mysteries works very well for this author, and the absolute star of the book simply has to be Cosmo, the still pretty feral and incredibly large cat who inspires hero worship in Toby the terrier and mortal fear in anyone he takes a dislike to. The main characters are easy to picture and take to very quickly, and each one brings their own skills to a new partnership which I hope will see many more investigations for Alexi, Jack and Combo. 5*
April 23, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐
A Date To Die For by E.V. Hunter is the first book in a brand-new Cozy Crime series...
The story begins with Alexi Ellis, an investigative journalist, and her feral cat, Cosmo, heading to beautiful Hopgood Hall to lick her wounds after being betrayed and let go from her job. However, she finds her old friends Cheryl and Drew distraught over the disappearance of their friend Natalie Parker. Alexi agrees to investigate Natalie's disappearance while ex-Met Police detective turned private eye Jack Maddox also joins forces to find her.
A Date To Die For has a well-paced plot that keeps readers engaged until the end. The mystery is well-crafted with secrets that someone desperately wants to keep hidden. The subject matter is darker than your average cozy mystery, but still enjoyable. The characters are likable, especially Alexi's sleuthing cat, Cosmo! I can't wait to see more of them in future installments of this series.
I enjoyed this book and found it funny and witty. I read it cover to cover in a single day which is a testament to how engaging the story was. The cover art fits the story perfectly, making for an attractive package overall. Honestly, the only thing I didn't like was Alexi's name. For some reason, I just found it a really odd name choice. 🤷🏻♀️ 😂
If you're looking for a cozy mystery full of secrets and with a touch of darkness, then A Date To Die For by E.V. Hunter is definitely worth checking out!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
A Date To Die For by E.V. Hunter is the first book in a brand-new Cozy Crime series...
The story begins with Alexi Ellis, an investigative journalist, and her feral cat, Cosmo, heading to beautiful Hopgood Hall to lick her wounds after being betrayed and let go from her job. However, she finds her old friends Cheryl and Drew distraught over the disappearance of their friend Natalie Parker. Alexi agrees to investigate Natalie's disappearance while ex-Met Police detective turned private eye Jack Maddox also joins forces to find her.
A Date To Die For has a well-paced plot that keeps readers engaged until the end. The mystery is well-crafted with secrets that someone desperately wants to keep hidden. The subject matter is darker than your average cozy mystery, but still enjoyable. The characters are likable, especially Alexi's sleuthing cat, Cosmo! I can't wait to see more of them in future installments of this series.
I enjoyed this book and found it funny and witty. I read it cover to cover in a single day which is a testament to how engaging the story was. The cover art fits the story perfectly, making for an attractive package overall. Honestly, the only thing I didn't like was Alexi's name. For some reason, I just found it a really odd name choice. 🤷🏻♀️ 😂
If you're looking for a cozy mystery full of secrets and with a touch of darkness, then A Date To Die For by E.V. Hunter is definitely worth checking out!
**ARC Via NetGalley**
February 6, 2023
Princess Fuzzypants here: Alexi, betrayed and emotionally bruised, has let her flat and packed her belongings and her cat, Cosmo, in her car and headed towards the hotel her best friend and husband run in the countryside. She discovers her friend Cheryl is upset because another friend has gone missing and no one but Cheryl seems to be worried. She asks Alexi to use her investigative reporting skill to find out what happened. As it turns out, there is another person trying to find Natalie, a former Met cop turned PI, Jack. Alexi and Jack join forces in an uneasy partnership and what they dig up is shocking.
It turns out Natalie has some serious skeletons in her past and one of them may have turned deadly. She has been wronged and she is hell bent on revenge but someone is more ruthless than she imagines. What follows is a good mystery as Alexi and Jack peel back the layers of deceit. While Natalie may have used questionable methods, she did not deserve her fate and the two are determined to find justice for her. The way they do is quite satisfying for both the characters and the reader.
I was pulled into the story and really liked the characters and their chemistry. It is the start of a new series. I am looking forward to seeing where it goes. Five purrs and two paws up.
It turns out Natalie has some serious skeletons in her past and one of them may have turned deadly. She has been wronged and she is hell bent on revenge but someone is more ruthless than she imagines. What follows is a good mystery as Alexi and Jack peel back the layers of deceit. While Natalie may have used questionable methods, she did not deserve her fate and the two are determined to find justice for her. The way they do is quite satisfying for both the characters and the reader.
I was pulled into the story and really liked the characters and their chemistry. It is the start of a new series. I am looking forward to seeing where it goes. Five purrs and two paws up.
March 5, 2023
Alexi is newly single and unemployed so she heads for her friends' hotel Hopwood Hall in the countryside. They are concerned about another friend who has disappeared. Alexi's journalist instinct kicks in and she is convinced that there is something sinister behind Natalie's disappearance. She joins forces with ex cop Jack who is also looking for Natatlie...
A Date To Die For is the first book in a new cosy murder mystery series set in London and the south of England.
We as readers are instantly drawn to Alexi as she adjusts to drastic changes in her personal life and career. She is accompanied by the wonderful Cosmo, a fearsome and magnificent cat who is a brilliant judge of character. She meets Jack who is also hugely likable and there is a romantic tension between the pair so I'm hoping for more in future books.
The case itself surrounds a missing woman. Natalie has vanished and Jack's sister runs the dating agency that she had joined. He quickly investigates the dates and discovers huge secrets from Natalie's past could actually be responsible for her disappearance. There are some big plot twists and I wasn't able to unravel the mystery before our investigators.
A Date To Die For is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery. It sets up the main characters well so I am looking forward to reading more from this series.
A Date To Die For is the first book in a new cosy murder mystery series set in London and the south of England.
We as readers are instantly drawn to Alexi as she adjusts to drastic changes in her personal life and career. She is accompanied by the wonderful Cosmo, a fearsome and magnificent cat who is a brilliant judge of character. She meets Jack who is also hugely likable and there is a romantic tension between the pair so I'm hoping for more in future books.
The case itself surrounds a missing woman. Natalie has vanished and Jack's sister runs the dating agency that she had joined. He quickly investigates the dates and discovers huge secrets from Natalie's past could actually be responsible for her disappearance. There are some big plot twists and I wasn't able to unravel the mystery before our investigators.
A Date To Die For is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery. It sets up the main characters well so I am looking forward to reading more from this series.
February 9, 2023
If you want to dip your toe into the cosy crime genre then this is the book for you! It is incredible. I loved every word and Cosmo the cat is just hilarious. I need a crime busting cat buddy.
E.V.Hunter has created a perfectly formed book full of exceptional characters that are completely believable. The plot is set at just the right pace to keep your interest. It is a complex story that just took my breathe away.
Alexi is a strong willed woman just out of a disastrous event at work and her relationship has gone. She just wants breathing space and then finds herself drawn into her Friend Cheryl’s friends disappearance. No one has heard from Natalie and everyone begins to fear the worst. Now Alexi finds herself working alongside a devilishly handsome Private Investigator, Jack, even Cosmo likes him and he is more than happy to make his feelings known if dislikes anyone.
The descriptive style of writing creates a beautiful feel for the countryside, horsey set and money. Everything just blends together well and totally draws you in.
Will Natalie be found? What on earth has happened to her? How close will Alexi and Jack get? Will this mystery ever be solved?
I urge anyone to grab a copy of this. It promises to be the start of an magnificent new series.
E.V.Hunter has created a perfectly formed book full of exceptional characters that are completely believable. The plot is set at just the right pace to keep your interest. It is a complex story that just took my breathe away.
Alexi is a strong willed woman just out of a disastrous event at work and her relationship has gone. She just wants breathing space and then finds herself drawn into her Friend Cheryl’s friends disappearance. No one has heard from Natalie and everyone begins to fear the worst. Now Alexi finds herself working alongside a devilishly handsome Private Investigator, Jack, even Cosmo likes him and he is more than happy to make his feelings known if dislikes anyone.
The descriptive style of writing creates a beautiful feel for the countryside, horsey set and money. Everything just blends together well and totally draws you in.
Will Natalie be found? What on earth has happened to her? How close will Alexi and Jack get? Will this mystery ever be solved?
I urge anyone to grab a copy of this. It promises to be the start of an magnificent new series.
February 16, 2023
This is my first book by this author. I thought it was a cute read and would recommend it. Cosmo is great and cat lovers will appreciate, especially if you like a mystery😺
Alexi Ellis is a journalist who recently lost her job due to cutbacks & just broke up with her boyfriend. She’s decided to leave the city and spend some time with her childhood friend, Cheryl, at her boutique hotel. Alexi and her feisty cat, Cosmo, head to Hopgood Hall for a long stay.
Soon upon their arrival, Alexi learns that Cheryl’s friend, Natalie has gone missing. Is she on a trip or has something bad happened to her? Cheryl doesn’t think Natalie would leave her business or town without telling someone. The police aren’t keen to get involved though.
Alexis’s investigative background comes in handy as she searches for clues into Natalie’s whereabouts. She meets Jack Maddox, a PI who is looking into Natalie for his sisters business. The two pair up and soon learn that Natalie was hiding some secrets about her past. Can they find out the truth?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
Alexi Ellis is a journalist who recently lost her job due to cutbacks & just broke up with her boyfriend. She’s decided to leave the city and spend some time with her childhood friend, Cheryl, at her boutique hotel. Alexi and her feisty cat, Cosmo, head to Hopgood Hall for a long stay.
Soon upon their arrival, Alexi learns that Cheryl’s friend, Natalie has gone missing. Is she on a trip or has something bad happened to her? Cheryl doesn’t think Natalie would leave her business or town without telling someone. The police aren’t keen to get involved though.
Alexis’s investigative background comes in handy as she searches for clues into Natalie’s whereabouts. She meets Jack Maddox, a PI who is looking into Natalie for his sisters business. The two pair up and soon learn that Natalie was hiding some secrets about her past. Can they find out the truth?
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 29, 2023
This is the first book in a new cozy mystery series, and I loved it. I enjoy reading cozy mystery, nothing too gory, with a bit of romance thrown in too.
Set in horse racing country, Alexi is a reporter of some merit; having been made redundant and leaving her boyfriend at the same time, she decides it's time for a new start. She lets her flat and goes to stay with her best friend, Cheryl and her husband, Drew in Lambourne at Hopgood Hall, a hotel which they run and which was once Drew's family home. Accompanying her is Cosmo, her cat who isnt that sociable.
Cheryl tells her about Natalie, a friend from the village who has gone missing; with Alexi's instincts telling her something is up, she takes a look round Natalie's cottage. She meets Jack, a Private Investigator who is also interested in where Natalie is, because his sister runs the dating agency Natalie had signed up to.
There follows a good cozy mystery which I found hard to put down and which kept me intrigued to find out more. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series and was pleased I only had a week or so to wait.
Well worth a read, especially if you like the cozy mystery genre.
Set in horse racing country, Alexi is a reporter of some merit; having been made redundant and leaving her boyfriend at the same time, she decides it's time for a new start. She lets her flat and goes to stay with her best friend, Cheryl and her husband, Drew in Lambourne at Hopgood Hall, a hotel which they run and which was once Drew's family home. Accompanying her is Cosmo, her cat who isnt that sociable.
Cheryl tells her about Natalie, a friend from the village who has gone missing; with Alexi's instincts telling her something is up, she takes a look round Natalie's cottage. She meets Jack, a Private Investigator who is also interested in where Natalie is, because his sister runs the dating agency Natalie had signed up to.
There follows a good cozy mystery which I found hard to put down and which kept me intrigued to find out more. I cannot wait to read the next book in the series and was pleased I only had a week or so to wait.
Well worth a read, especially if you like the cozy mystery genre.
February 5, 2023
A Date To Die For by E V Hunter is a contemporary cosy crime that I read in just one sitting.
The characters were all well drawn, likable and realistic. The leading pair made quite a crime-busting duo – the private investigator and the journalist, accompanied by a very savvy cat called Cosmo! Cosmo has a nose that sniffs out the good and the bad. He turns from a purring fluffball to a hissy, bitey machine in an instant. Cosmo’s presence brings warmth and realism to the tale. The human pair also have noses for a crime, knowing just what questions to ask and where to look, and the tenacity to keep going.
Unfortunately, we witness generational patterns of behaviour that seem doomed to repeat. Those in positions of power and responsibility abuse it.
Friends are important. They look out for, and help, each other.
A Date To Die For would make a fabulous early evening television series. I really enjoyed it and look forward to much more from E V Hunter.
I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The characters were all well drawn, likable and realistic. The leading pair made quite a crime-busting duo – the private investigator and the journalist, accompanied by a very savvy cat called Cosmo! Cosmo has a nose that sniffs out the good and the bad. He turns from a purring fluffball to a hissy, bitey machine in an instant. Cosmo’s presence brings warmth and realism to the tale. The human pair also have noses for a crime, knowing just what questions to ask and where to look, and the tenacity to keep going.
Unfortunately, we witness generational patterns of behaviour that seem doomed to repeat. Those in positions of power and responsibility abuse it.
Friends are important. They look out for, and help, each other.
A Date To Die For would make a fabulous early evening television series. I really enjoyed it and look forward to much more from E V Hunter.
I received a free copy. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
August 24, 2023
After leaving her job as a journalist following a disagreement with her boss, Alexi goes to a hotel belonging to friends Cheryl and Drew to decompress. Cheryl talks Alexi into investigating the disappearance of Natalie, another friend, gone several days but not in danger, according to police. Alexi joins forces with Jack, a PI, who also hopes to find Natalie, who was using an online dating service owned by Jack's sister. Alexi owns a protective cat, Cosmo, who likes Jack but doesn't like Alexi's old boyfriend. During the course of their investigation, Alexi and Jack learn that Natalie has many secrets and an unsavory past. Danger and suspense build as the story progresses. Weak dialogue is a distraction, as is the interactions of Alexi and Jack, who are drawn to each other but behave like shy high school kids. There are several unlikely coincidences that stretch believability. A fight sequence near the end reads too much like a comic book. Despite its flaws, the book contains some good elements and is an entertaining read.
February 4, 2023
4 Stars from me
Alexi and Cosmo make for an unusual pairing as they set off to solve the mystery of missing woman Natalie Parker.
What follows is cozy crime at its best within the beautiful surroundings of Hopgood Hall and the horse racing fraternity.
Cosmo the cat added another layer of 'cosy' to this book, he was the perfect companion for Alexi as she headed repeatedly into unsafe situations in her pursuit of the truth.
The 'will they won't they' trope between her and ex-Met Police detective turned private eye, Jack Maddox added a nice touch to the story - and it was fun solving the crime with them as the lead characters.
Overall, a really enjoyable read with nice elements of tension and a good balance of tense moments throughout - I look forward to reading more in the series.
My thanks to E V Hunter, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for letting me be a part of this blog tour.
Alexi and Cosmo make for an unusual pairing as they set off to solve the mystery of missing woman Natalie Parker.
What follows is cozy crime at its best within the beautiful surroundings of Hopgood Hall and the horse racing fraternity.
Cosmo the cat added another layer of 'cosy' to this book, he was the perfect companion for Alexi as she headed repeatedly into unsafe situations in her pursuit of the truth.
The 'will they won't they' trope between her and ex-Met Police detective turned private eye, Jack Maddox added a nice touch to the story - and it was fun solving the crime with them as the lead characters.
Overall, a really enjoyable read with nice elements of tension and a good balance of tense moments throughout - I look forward to reading more in the series.
My thanks to E V Hunter, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for letting me be a part of this blog tour.
January 31, 2023
A Date to Die For proves to be an absorbing and immersive murder mystery written in a cosy crime style. It has two likeable amateur sleuths, an enigmatic cat and a twisty mystery with disturbing and poignant elements that make this darker than the usual cosy mystery. Alexi is a disillusioned investigative journalist, and Jack is an ex-Met detective, now a private investigator. They quickly move from acquaintances to friends with frissons of romance. The mystery is well-written and full of surprises, all cleverly resolved suspensefully. It's an engaging read that offers escapism and interactivity. I like the characters, the setting and the complex mystery.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
February 2, 2023
I just finished reading A Date To Die For and have to say……I LOVED IT!
The story line captivated me right away. I read the book in one afternoon as it was that engaging, intriguing and entertaining. I am hoping this is the first in a series.
I loved the main characters, Alexi and Jack. I can’t wait to see where the author takes their relationship.
I loved Cosmo the anti-social feral cat.
The mystery that Alexi and Jack get involved in is full of suspense, secrets and lies. You are kept guessing right up to the end.
Definitely recommended!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and author, E.V. Hunter, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
@bookandtonic
@boldwoodbooks
The story line captivated me right away. I read the book in one afternoon as it was that engaging, intriguing and entertaining. I am hoping this is the first in a series.
I loved the main characters, Alexi and Jack. I can’t wait to see where the author takes their relationship.
I loved Cosmo the anti-social feral cat.
The mystery that Alexi and Jack get involved in is full of suspense, secrets and lies. You are kept guessing right up to the end.
Definitely recommended!
Many thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and author, E.V. Hunter, for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
@shortbookthyme
@bookandtonic
@boldwoodbooks
February 27, 2024
Alexi Ellis is leaving London to hang out with her best friend and she's bringing along her feline with an attitude, Cosmo. She just got cut from the journalism job that she loves, her ex knowing about it and not telling her was just icing on the cake. So, now she's in a small town, living in a hotel, and wondering about a local woman who has disappeared.
While looking into it, she runs into a private investigator, Jack Maddox. The two team up to try and figure out exactly what happened to Natalie.
The characters were a little flat and I feel like there is going to be a build up to Jack and Alexi having Twu Lurv but there was something that just didn't quite fit for me. Will probably read the next book in the series but may wait a bit to do so.
While looking into it, she runs into a private investigator, Jack Maddox. The two team up to try and figure out exactly what happened to Natalie.
The characters were a little flat and I feel like there is going to be a build up to Jack and Alexi having Twu Lurv but there was something that just didn't quite fit for me. Will probably read the next book in the series but may wait a bit to do so.
June 5, 2025
Cracking story
A entertaining and really well written mystery. When reporter Alexi looses her job a visit to stay with old friends at their hotel Hopgood Hall puts her in position to investigate the disappearance for one of their friends and with the help of PI Jake and guard cat Cosmo she is dragged into the world of racing stables, high class escorts, shocking secrets and blackmail. This story is beautifully written with strong characters, great dialogue, a little grit and a lot of fun. Narration is excellent bringing the,story to life. I will definitely be reading more of these and have,already bought the next one both ebook and audio.
A entertaining and really well written mystery. When reporter Alexi looses her job a visit to stay with old friends at their hotel Hopgood Hall puts her in position to investigate the disappearance for one of their friends and with the help of PI Jake and guard cat Cosmo she is dragged into the world of racing stables, high class escorts, shocking secrets and blackmail. This story is beautifully written with strong characters, great dialogue, a little grit and a lot of fun. Narration is excellent bringing the,story to life. I will definitely be reading more of these and have,already bought the next one both ebook and audio.
February 2, 2023
Great book no cliches or tweeness!
Alexi is a journalist visiting her closest friends at their hotel. Whilst there the lady they water the plants for sporadically disappears. The journo in her sets her senses tweaking and she starts to investigate with her gorgeous cat. She meets Jack an ex cop who is also looking for answers because of Alexis’s investigation.
They join up together and seek answers.
This is a good book, lots of plot twists and turns.
Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
Alexi is a journalist visiting her closest friends at their hotel. Whilst there the lady they water the plants for sporadically disappears. The journo in her sets her senses tweaking and she starts to investigate with her gorgeous cat. She meets Jack an ex cop who is also looking for answers because of Alexis’s investigation.
They join up together and seek answers.
This is a good book, lots of plot twists and turns.
Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.
February 13, 2023
3.25/5 stars! Cosmo is fabulous and I love a good pet sidekick. Alexi is trying to have a little break from her hectic life as an investigative journalist, but that's not meant to be. When she arrives at Hopwood Hall, there is a mystery to be solved. It was an interesting premise but the payoff was a little bland for my tastes. There were a few interesting twists and turns, but I didn't feel super drawn to Jack or Alexi, which made the storyline suffer.
I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
I received an advance review copy for free through NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 14, 2023
After arriving at her friends’ boutique hotel, former investigative journalist Alexi searches for a missing woman alongside her clever cat, Cosmo, and a local private eye.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
This is a brilliant read.
Wonderful well written plot and story line that had me engaged from the start.
Love the well fleshed out characters and found them believable.
Great drama and romance with wonderful world building.
Can't wait to read what the author brings out next.
Recommend reading.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 15, 2023
A Date to Die For is a cozy murder mystery that will keep you guessing until the very end. The story follows Alexi, an ex-journalist, and Jack, an ex-policeman, as they partner to solve the mystery of a missing woman. The two have great chemistry, and their banter is one of the highlights of the book. The plot is well-paced and suspenseful, and the author does a great job of creating a sense of atmosphere. Overall, A Date to Die For is a fun and engaging read that is sure to please fans of cozy murder mysteries.
August 16, 2025
It's true to its claim. It's a cozy mystery read. Loved the ending. I wished all men who did Natalie and her mother wrong faced a more brutal ending but maybe sometimes suffering is not physical at all. LOVED IT, I LOVED COSMO AND TOBY. The ending with Natalie's adoptive mom, Fay, comforted me. I was so sad for Natalie. I wish I could find the book 2 and 3 here in the Philippines but sadly this is thrifted and it would be almost impossible for me to find the two books. I LOVE THIS BOOK SO MUCH. I WANT TO KNOW ALEXI AND JACK MORE. I WISH I COULD FIND PART 2 AND 3!
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