Source: Publisher
Description: Writer-in-residence Penelope Parish will need to use every trick in her quaint British bookshop to unravel a murderous plot that threatens to ruin a ducal wedding.
The wedding of the Duke and Duchess of Upper Chumley-on Stoke has all the makings of a fairy tale, complete with a glowing bride and horse-drawn carriage. But it wouldn't be much of a story without a villain, and as American Gothic novelist Penelope Parish is coming to learn, happy-ever-afters are as fraught in this charming British town as they are in her books.
When the Duke's former girlfriend is found murdered at the reception it's up to Penelope and her newfound family at the Open Book bookshop to catch the killer before they strike again.
Genre: Mystery - Cozy
Why I Picked This Book: I liked the first book in the series okay and wanted to give this a try.
My Impression: So I liked this mystery. I love the premise and I like the main characters. It didn't feel like it dragged and was an easy read. I liked the tidbits about Penelope's writing process and the introduction of her sister.
Unfortunately, I also just never felt invested in the mystery or the characters. It seemed like there was may more telling then showing and that kept me from feeling connected with either the characters or the general plot. It was more like hearing about the investigation 2nd hand vs following along with the main character as she investigated.
This series lands in okay territory for me. If I saw the next one on audio I'd probably give it a try but after 2 books I don't feel invested enough in the characters to want to continue with this series.
Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Probably. I don't think this series is for me but I'd give the author try.
Would I Recommend this Book? If you love a British bookish setting then you may enjoy this series.
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *
Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Probably. I don't think this series is for me but I'd give the author try.
Would I Recommend this Book? If you love a British bookish setting then you may enjoy this series.
* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *
I love the setting and plot! Thanks for introducing me to this series--I must find the first book pronto!
ReplyDeleteThe setting sounds so inviting. However I don't like telling rather than showing either.
ReplyDeleteDuke and Duchess of Upper Chumley-on Stoke is an awesome name! Too bad the series has just been meh. I like that the protagonist is a writer though.
ReplyDeleteI like the premise of the series, but I would get annoyed at the telling vs. showing, too.
ReplyDeleteIt's too bad this series wasn't a hit for you. It's not one I have tried yet.
ReplyDelete