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3.77 AVERAGE
3.77 AVERAGE
Ridiculous
Wow, this book is as disappointing as the first.
It reads like a juvenile effort—immature, random, and utterly disorganized.
In both books, the detective is appallingly incompetent, prioritizing convictions over justice.
Their investigative and interrogation methods are laughable.
Furthermore, the detective relies heavily on a suspect, an absurd choice indicative of their inability to gather information properly and their reliance on a team of equally inept colleagues.
What kind of police department operates this way?
And then there's the killer, whose actions defy all logic: staying in the same hotel as the victim and leaving incriminating evidence in plain sight. Seriously?
This book's plot is, without a doubt, one of the most ridiculous I've ever encountered.
Wow, this book is as disappointing as the first.
It reads like a juvenile effort—immature, random, and utterly disorganized.
In both books, the detective is appallingly incompetent, prioritizing convictions over justice.
Their investigative and interrogation methods are laughable.
Furthermore, the detective relies heavily on a suspect, an absurd choice indicative of their inability to gather information properly and their reliance on a team of equally inept colleagues.
What kind of police department operates this way?
And then there's the killer, whose actions defy all logic: staying in the same hotel as the victim and leaving incriminating evidence in plain sight. Seriously?
This book's plot is, without a doubt, one of the most ridiculous I've ever encountered.
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
funny
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
funny
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
adventurous
lighthearted
mysterious
reflective
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
No
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
funny
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Another good one! A nice quick read too and lots of fun!
This was cute. A little slow and a lot like I was listening to a game of Clue. Molly is endearing and I like the way it wraps up with a bow in the end. (Audiobook)
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Not as good as the first book.
Sleuthing with Heart: 'The Mystery Guest' Delivers Cozy Mystery Magic.
Book Information
“The Mystery Guest” by Nita Prose is a 304-page cozyish mystery novel with an expected publication date of November 28, 2023. Thank you to Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Molly Gray stands out from the crowd with her exceptional cleaning skills and impeccable manners, earning her the prestigious position of Head Maid at the luxurious Regency Grand Hotel. However, her perfect world takes a shocking twist when the renowned mystery author, J.D. Grimthorpe, drops dead in the hotel's tea room, and Detective Stark, her old adversary, launches a murder investigation. As suspicions cast a wide net, questions arise about who could have killed Grimthorpe. Could it be the new Maid-in-Training, Lily, or the author's secretary, Serena? Even the beloved doorman, Mr. Preston, is under scrutiny. Amidst the turmoil, Molly realizes she may hold the key to solving the mystery in her past connection to Grimthorpe.
My Thoughts
Nita Prose's "The Mystery Guest" proves to be a delightful sequel to her debut novel, "The Maid." I initially had doubts about whether a follow-up could capture the charm of the original, but this book managed to exceed my expectations. If 'The Maid' was the appetizer, 'The Mystery Guest' is the delicious main course that leaves readers hungry for more. It's a fun and fast-paced read that is both clever and witty, offering a feel-good mystery with a cozy touch.
One of the highlights of this book is the return of many beloved characters from the first installment. It's a welcome reunion that adds depth to the story. Since the first book, the protagonist, Molly, has shown remarkable growth and potential for more, making her an even more engaging character.
The story is built around two interconnecting timelines, which adds intrigue and keeps readers engaged. Exploring Molly's background and childhood, as well as her interactions with her Gran, offers valuable insights into her as a person. Introducing young Molly was a clever move by the author to further enrich her character.
As someone who has dedicated over two decades to working on behalf of people with disabilities and is the father of children with autism, I appreciate when books portray characters with disabilities in a positive light. Nita Prose's portrayal of a neurodivergent person and the challenges (and advantages) faced by such individuals and their families is sensitive and well-executed, avoiding stereotypical clichés. Her ability to capture moments in the life of a person with a disability is commendable.
Prose's writing is top-notch, and she excels in bringing out Molly's uniqueness. The unlikely pairing that develops late in the book is a highlight for me, showcasing Prose's skill in managing character growth and changes in attitude.
Lastly, the heartwarming conclusion is so moving that you might find yourself reaching for "a tissue for your issue."
This is a charming and clever page-turner that will steal your heart.
Recommendation
"The Mystery Guest" is a well-crafted and thoroughly enjoyable mystery that not only maintains the charm of its predecessor but also adds depth and heart to the series. If you enjoyed the original, you will enjoy this one too. A must-read for mystery lovers and those seeking a feel-good tale of hope and intrigue. Highly recommended.
Rating
4 Restored to a State of Perfection Stars
Book Information
“The Mystery Guest” by Nita Prose is a 304-page cozyish mystery novel with an expected publication date of November 28, 2023. Thank you to Random House Publishing Group – Ballantine for providing me with an advance reader copy of this book for review.
Summary
Molly Gray stands out from the crowd with her exceptional cleaning skills and impeccable manners, earning her the prestigious position of Head Maid at the luxurious Regency Grand Hotel. However, her perfect world takes a shocking twist when the renowned mystery author, J.D. Grimthorpe, drops dead in the hotel's tea room, and Detective Stark, her old adversary, launches a murder investigation. As suspicions cast a wide net, questions arise about who could have killed Grimthorpe. Could it be the new Maid-in-Training, Lily, or the author's secretary, Serena? Even the beloved doorman, Mr. Preston, is under scrutiny. Amidst the turmoil, Molly realizes she may hold the key to solving the mystery in her past connection to Grimthorpe.
My Thoughts
Nita Prose's "The Mystery Guest" proves to be a delightful sequel to her debut novel, "The Maid." I initially had doubts about whether a follow-up could capture the charm of the original, but this book managed to exceed my expectations. If 'The Maid' was the appetizer, 'The Mystery Guest' is the delicious main course that leaves readers hungry for more. It's a fun and fast-paced read that is both clever and witty, offering a feel-good mystery with a cozy touch.
One of the highlights of this book is the return of many beloved characters from the first installment. It's a welcome reunion that adds depth to the story. Since the first book, the protagonist, Molly, has shown remarkable growth and potential for more, making her an even more engaging character.
The story is built around two interconnecting timelines, which adds intrigue and keeps readers engaged. Exploring Molly's background and childhood, as well as her interactions with her Gran, offers valuable insights into her as a person. Introducing young Molly was a clever move by the author to further enrich her character.
As someone who has dedicated over two decades to working on behalf of people with disabilities and is the father of children with autism, I appreciate when books portray characters with disabilities in a positive light. Nita Prose's portrayal of a neurodivergent person and the challenges (and advantages) faced by such individuals and their families is sensitive and well-executed, avoiding stereotypical clichés. Her ability to capture moments in the life of a person with a disability is commendable.
Prose's writing is top-notch, and she excels in bringing out Molly's uniqueness. The unlikely pairing that develops late in the book is a highlight for me, showcasing Prose's skill in managing character growth and changes in attitude.
Lastly, the heartwarming conclusion is so moving that you might find yourself reaching for "a tissue for your issue."
This is a charming and clever page-turner that will steal your heart.
Recommendation
"The Mystery Guest" is a well-crafted and thoroughly enjoyable mystery that not only maintains the charm of its predecessor but also adds depth and heart to the series. If you enjoyed the original, you will enjoy this one too. A must-read for mystery lovers and those seeking a feel-good tale of hope and intrigue. Highly recommended.
Rating
4 Restored to a State of Perfection Stars