Reviews

To Helvetica and Back by Paige Shelton

madsmcw_reads's review against another edition

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mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

A cozy mystery series starter, this story did have a solid mystery that kept me just intrigued enough to keep listening to find out what happened. I don't know if I wasn't paying attention enough but the resolution seemed to come out of left field with not enough little nuggets of information to help you get there. The main character has a quirky job I've never seen before in a cozy which isn't always easy because I've read so many at this point. I'm not sure if I'm sold on the setting and the supporting characters though. I may try the next one at some point but for now I'm on the lookout for a different series that's more captivating.

cfulton20's review

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4.0

enjoyable, great story

sierracharlie's review against another edition

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mysterious slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

An interesting niche with a solid mystery. 

zermeena's review

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4.0

This book introduced an interesting group of characters. The mystery was clever and I didn't really know where it was leading. Although thinking back on it, all the clues were there - maybe I wasn't paying good attention at the time. I'll read another one and decide if I'll continue the series.

It does bother me that Clare has a male calico cat because they are very rare.

rmadden's review

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mysterious relaxing medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

I loved that this book was set in Utah. I think that’s why I kept reading and will probably pick up one more. If I dislike that one, I’ll be done with the series. I felt that Clare was awful. Like she had a lot of mean thoughts about her bff. Their friendship didn’t feel genuine. Also I got the vibes she never got over Creighton. The first date was awful, I’m surprised anyone wanted to date her at all. And the ending/murder just didn’t work for me.

kimscozyreads's review

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2.0

2.5

Not bad? Just didnt rope me in with any aspect in particular. The typewriter repair shop is an interesting concept and the titles are adorable, but it wasn't overwhelmingly cozy and I think the resolution of the mystery is pretty thin.

marlisenicole's review against another edition

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lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

jadams89's review against another edition

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lighthearted mysterious medium-paced

3.0

peggyemi's review

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4.0

I am a fan of Paige Shelton and was so disappointed that the Farmers' Market Murder Mysteries were ending that when I saw that she had a new series coming out this book automatically went on my to be read list. And I was not disappointed. The writing is what fans have come to expect from this author. The story is well plotted with a solid mystery that is intriguing. There are twists and turns and surprises leading up to a satisfying ending to the story. I like that an old typewriter repair shop is the setting. That along with the town adds a nostalgic feel to the story. I also for the most part, liked all of the characters. The only character that I didn't connect with was Clare's best friend Jodie. I'm not sure why that is but I am looking forward to more stories in this series and hopefully will warm up to Jodie's character.

caitkom's review

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4.0

I enjoyed this first in series. I loved that there is a series based on type writers! I have always thought type writers are amazing and would be fun to use, but then again, I don't know what I would do without auto-correct!

This book introduces us to Claire Henry and her grandfather Chester. Chester owns a shop which specializes in restoring type writers and old books. Claire is caught off guard when a man comes in demanding that she give him the type writer she has been working on, and even more caught off guard when he ends up dead behind the shop. Claire's best friend and her ex are police officers, which helps when she is brought in to the police station and questioned. I really liked the main characters and some new ones who were introduced as the book progresses. I will be reading the rest of the series.