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mandysbooknook's review against another edition
mysterious
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
3.0
beyondevak's review against another edition
4.0
Quick Summary: A mystery writer slips into the role of amateur detective
My Review: Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown is A Marius Quinn Mystery. It is book one in an exciting new series set in the late 1920s.
About the Book: Marius Quinn is having trouble completing his new manuscript. As he is now under the gun to produce something of substance, he is very much feeling the pressure. When Marius runs into his old love, she quickly invites him to an old English estate for the holidays. While there, the host of the gathering is murdered. Quinn suddenly finds himself thrust into the role of master detective. During his investigation, old feelings emerge, secrets are revealed, relationships are exposed, and a killer taunts the would-be detective. Who will the murderer end up being?
My Final Say: Book one was a great start for Marius Quinn. He is a likable character with a solid backstory. His connection with his investigative partner was set up so well, to the point that more, most certainly, has to come for them. Friends and foes were positioned in such a way as to make things interesting. I cannot wait to read book two.
Other: I appreciated the presentation of the background research that went into creating this work. I found it all rather intriguing. Additionally, the narration of this book was spot on.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Audiobook: Yes
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Dreamscape Select, Storm Publishing), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have submitted are my own.
My Review: Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown is A Marius Quinn Mystery. It is book one in an exciting new series set in the late 1920s.
About the Book: Marius Quinn is having trouble completing his new manuscript. As he is now under the gun to produce something of substance, he is very much feeling the pressure. When Marius runs into his old love, she quickly invites him to an old English estate for the holidays. While there, the host of the gathering is murdered. Quinn suddenly finds himself thrust into the role of master detective. During his investigation, old feelings emerge, secrets are revealed, relationships are exposed, and a killer taunts the would-be detective. Who will the murderer end up being?
My Final Say: Book one was a great start for Marius Quinn. He is a likable character with a solid backstory. His connection with his investigative partner was set up so well, to the point that more, most certainly, has to come for them. Friends and foes were positioned in such a way as to make things interesting. I cannot wait to read book two.
Other: I appreciated the presentation of the background research that went into creating this work. I found it all rather intriguing. Additionally, the narration of this book was spot on.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Audiobook: Yes
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Dreamscape Select, Storm Publishing), and to NetGalley. Thank you for granting access to this title in exchange for an honest review. The words I have submitted are my own.
oliviagold's review against another edition
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
4.0
juliesinstaricelife's review
2.0
For a murder mystery, this book was so boring. There wasn't any tension, there wasn't any suspense, the writing style was quippy and it all unraveled exactly as you would expect an amateur detective novel would. I found my mind wandering often during this audio book yet I still had no trouble following Maris and Isabella's attempts to find the murderer before...well.. I think before anyone else died? But there didn't really seem to be any urgency either. Then a detective shows up and takes direction from Maris, which makes zero sense. I prefer books with more drama and suspense, this was a miss for me.
hannagg's review
4.0
"Murder at Everham Hall" by Benedict Brown is the first installment in the new historical cozy mystery series. We meet a young writer, Marius Quin, when he tries to convince his publisher that his writer's block is temporary and that his second book will soon be published. Alas, he can just present the first chapter without knowing what will happen next. Fortunately, after leaving the publisher, he comes across his childhood friend, Lady Isabella Montague, who invites him to a Boxing Day party at the country house belonging to a famous actor. The event may deliver much-needed inspiration to Marius.
Well, the host is murdered, and Marius decides that he is the most suitable person to find the killer. It is not an easy task since the victim is a rather unpleasant individual, and all the guests at the party seem to have motives to kill him. But uncovering the truth is not the only goal of our self-appointed detective – he wants to rekindle his friendship with Bella, who is also excited to follow all hints leading to the killer. And so the pair becomes partners in solving the crime.
The mystery is light, with occasional solemn notes, because the 28-year-old Marius is also a vet of WWI. The author has a slight tongue-in-a-cheek sense of humor, and the first-person narrative sometimes results in funny dialog when Marius expresses his thoughts in a relatively unsophisticated way. I enjoyed listening to the story but didn't warm up to Marius or Bella. My favorite character was Percy, a dog with a penchant for favoring the most probable suspects. I also loved the songs in the audiobook and the fascinating author's note at the end. Hopefully, the detective collaboration of Bella and Marius will be developed in future installments into a good, cozy mystery/romance story.
Well, the host is murdered, and Marius decides that he is the most suitable person to find the killer. It is not an easy task since the victim is a rather unpleasant individual, and all the guests at the party seem to have motives to kill him. But uncovering the truth is not the only goal of our self-appointed detective – he wants to rekindle his friendship with Bella, who is also excited to follow all hints leading to the killer. And so the pair becomes partners in solving the crime.
The mystery is light, with occasional solemn notes, because the 28-year-old Marius is also a vet of WWI. The author has a slight tongue-in-a-cheek sense of humor, and the first-person narrative sometimes results in funny dialog when Marius expresses his thoughts in a relatively unsophisticated way. I enjoyed listening to the story but didn't warm up to Marius or Bella. My favorite character was Percy, a dog with a penchant for favoring the most probable suspects. I also loved the songs in the audiobook and the fascinating author's note at the end. Hopefully, the detective collaboration of Bella and Marius will be developed in future installments into a good, cozy mystery/romance story.
brunettebookstagirl's review
4.0
This first in the Marius Quin Mysteries, this cosy mystery starts as our main character is flying high after the success of his bestseller.
After being invited to a New Year's Eve party, the real mystery begins - who killed the host? We find out more from the other party goers in this light hearted who done it? But will they find the killer!
A quick, witty read that grabs your attention right till the end!
After being invited to a New Year's Eve party, the real mystery begins - who killed the host? We find out more from the other party goers in this light hearted who done it? But will they find the killer!
A quick, witty read that grabs your attention right till the end!
readingvoyage's review against another edition
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
4.0
the_sassy_bookworm's review
challenging
funny
lighthearted
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Book Review: A Captivating Cozy Mystery for the Festive Season
Rating: ★★★★☆ Stars
Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown is a delightful historical cozy mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish. With its suitably festive setting, well-paced plot, and engaging characters, it is a book that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
Set in December 1927, the story follows Marius Quin, a mystery writer grappling with writer's block and mounting financial pressures. When he receives an invitation to an intimate New Year's Eve party hosted by a self-absorbed actor and his childhood friend, Lady Isabella Montague, Marius jumps at the chance for distraction. Joined by his perpetually glum Basset hound, he makes his way through the snowy lanes to the opulent Everham Hall. Little does he know that the celebration will take an unexpected turn when the host is found murdered, leaving the partygoers snowed in and stranded.
Unable to rely on the police due to the isolation, Marius finds himself thrust into the role of detective as he is nominated by the panicked group to uncover the killer. With Bella by his side and a host of conniving suspects to choose from, Marius must navigate through a web of deception to solve the mystery before he becomes the next target.
One of the standout features of Murder at Everham Hall is Benedict Brown's excellent writing. The prose is engaging, witty, and filled with humor. Brown's ability to create a festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. The snowy backdrop and the opulence of Everham Hall enhance the sense of mystery and intrigue, making it the perfect read for the holiday season.
The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing the suspense to build gradually as Marius delves deeper into the investigation. The author skillfully weaves together clues and red herrings, keeping readers guessing until the final reveal. The plot is cleverly crafted, ensuring that the mystery remains unpredictable yet plausible throughout.
The characters in Murder at Everham Hall are another highlight of the book. Marius Quin, with his wit and charm, is a relatable protagonist who carries the story with ease. His interactions with Lady Isabella Montague add depth to their friendship and provide a touch of romance to the narrative. The supporting cast of suspects is diverse and intriguing, each with their own motives and secrets that keep readers guessing until the very end.
In conclusion, Murder at Everham Hall is a highly enjoyable cozy mystery that will appeal to fans of the genre. Benedict Brown has crafted a compelling story filled with humor, wit, and suspense. With its festive setting and engaging characters, this book is a perfect choice for those looking for a captivating read during the holiday season. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this promising series.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Rating: ★★★★☆ Stars
Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown is a delightful historical cozy mystery that will captivate readers from start to finish. With its suitably festive setting, well-paced plot, and engaging characters, it is a book that will leave you eagerly awaiting the next installment in the series.
Set in December 1927, the story follows Marius Quin, a mystery writer grappling with writer's block and mounting financial pressures. When he receives an invitation to an intimate New Year's Eve party hosted by a self-absorbed actor and his childhood friend, Lady Isabella Montague, Marius jumps at the chance for distraction. Joined by his perpetually glum Basset hound, he makes his way through the snowy lanes to the opulent Everham Hall. Little does he know that the celebration will take an unexpected turn when the host is found murdered, leaving the partygoers snowed in and stranded.
Unable to rely on the police due to the isolation, Marius finds himself thrust into the role of detective as he is nominated by the panicked group to uncover the killer. With Bella by his side and a host of conniving suspects to choose from, Marius must navigate through a web of deception to solve the mystery before he becomes the next target.
One of the standout features of Murder at Everham Hall is Benedict Brown's excellent writing. The prose is engaging, witty, and filled with humor. Brown's ability to create a festive atmosphere adds an extra layer of enjoyment to the reading experience. The snowy backdrop and the opulence of Everham Hall enhance the sense of mystery and intrigue, making it the perfect read for the holiday season.
The pacing of the novel is well-balanced, allowing the suspense to build gradually as Marius delves deeper into the investigation. The author skillfully weaves together clues and red herrings, keeping readers guessing until the final reveal. The plot is cleverly crafted, ensuring that the mystery remains unpredictable yet plausible throughout.
The characters in Murder at Everham Hall are another highlight of the book. Marius Quin, with his wit and charm, is a relatable protagonist who carries the story with ease. His interactions with Lady Isabella Montague add depth to their friendship and provide a touch of romance to the narrative. The supporting cast of suspects is diverse and intriguing, each with their own motives and secrets that keep readers guessing until the very end.
In conclusion, Murder at Everham Hall is a highly enjoyable cozy mystery that will appeal to fans of the genre. Benedict Brown has crafted a compelling story filled with humor, wit, and suspense. With its festive setting and engaging characters, this book is a perfect choice for those looking for a captivating read during the holiday season. I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this promising series.
⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️