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3.69 AVERAGE
3.69 AVERAGE
This was a very good mystery with a different style to switching narrators than I usually read.
I can't really specify what it was any how the narrators were changing that felt unique, just that the characters felt very distinct and different, which is pretty common, but very well done here.
I can't really specify what it was any how the narrators were changing that felt unique, just that the characters felt very distinct and different, which is pretty common, but very well done here.
I’ve got to admit, it took me a long time to get into this book. It sat on my reader at 20% finished for ages before I finally picked it up again and started enjoying it. That’s probably because Sid made a much better character once he was a dead body.
One thing to point out is that this really isn’t in the amateur sleuth genre, despite the synopsis. Jo doesn’t investigate the murder, she sticks to historical research into the mysteries of her family’s history while MacAdams and the police investigate the murder. I was expecting something more about the community and its secrets (though there are some…) and less police procedural based on the publisher description, something that barely mentions one of the main POV characters.
One thing to point out is that this really isn’t in the amateur sleuth genre, despite the synopsis. Jo doesn’t investigate the murder, she sticks to historical research into the mysteries of her family’s history while MacAdams and the police investigate the murder. I was expecting something more about the community and its secrets (though there are some…) and less police procedural based on the publisher description, something that barely mentions one of the main POV characters.
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Cozy-ish Mystery told in dual POV and set in England in which an autistic American editor and a DCI investigate three cases, a theft, a murder and a cold case, that seem connected.
5/5 stars: This is the first entry in Schillace's Netherleigh Mystery series which is a Cozy-ish Mystery told in dual POV, takes place in England and features an American neurodivergent, hyperlexic book editor who inherits a crumbling estate and a local detective. With plenty of twists and turns, Schillace has crafted not one but three crimes (a theft, a new murder and a cold case) and deftly weaves them together into a mystery that balances the suspects, clues and red herrings perfectly and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Schillace's characters are complex and yet incredibly likable. Jo's constantly having to navigate not only dealing with people but the world in general. I appreciate Schillace's portrayal of Jo's autism with such sensitivity. MacAdams is very much a flat foot of old but oh so very human. I can't wait to see where Schillace takes these characters! This book touches on some sensitive topics, so take care and check the CWs. I really loved this book and can't wait to read more sleuthing adventures featuring Jo and MacAdams. A MUST read!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
5/5 stars: This is the first entry in Schillace's Netherleigh Mystery series which is a Cozy-ish Mystery told in dual POV, takes place in England and features an American neurodivergent, hyperlexic book editor who inherits a crumbling estate and a local detective. With plenty of twists and turns, Schillace has crafted not one but three crimes (a theft, a new murder and a cold case) and deftly weaves them together into a mystery that balances the suspects, clues and red herrings perfectly and will leave you pondering the whodunit until the final reveal. Schillace's characters are complex and yet incredibly likable. Jo's constantly having to navigate not only dealing with people but the world in general. I appreciate Schillace's portrayal of Jo's autism with such sensitivity. MacAdams is very much a flat foot of old but oh so very human. I can't wait to see where Schillace takes these characters! This book touches on some sensitive topics, so take care and check the CWs. I really loved this book and can't wait to read more sleuthing adventures featuring Jo and MacAdams. A MUST read!
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing, Hanover Square Press in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
dark
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
mysterious
A decent mystery with a well-thought out plots I just wish there was better resolution with some of the characters.
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I absolutely loved Jo as the main character, her neurodivergence and unapologetic personality brought so much life to the story. However, I could have done without the other characters’ viewpoints. The two detectives blurred together for me, making their chapters confusing. The book had a strong start and an intriguing ending, but the middle dragged. That said, I still plan to check out the sequel when it comes out
emotional
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
No
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No