This is the fifth book in the Karina Cardinal Mysteries series. These books can be read as standalones, but I highly recommend reading them to get a better understand of the characters, their relationships and backgrounds. As per usual in this series, I was gripped beginning to end. I was immersed in the story, living the adventures alongside Karina as the story progressed. The writing flowed nicely and was easy to follow, increasing the enjoyment for me. Once again the lovable Karina put herself in harms way to solve the case, especially now her ex is being accused of something she can’t believe. She’s strong and determined and I love that about her. I adore this series, it’s especially perfect for this time of year, curling up in front of the fire!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-16 18:04:372023-10-19 13:49:08Swindler’s Revenge (Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 5) by Ellen Butler – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
Slay It With A Diamond is the third book in The Diamond District Mystery Series by Rob Bates. This is an intriguing cozy mystery with crime and investigation, drama, a snapshot of the diamond/jewellery industry, secrets, scandal, revelations, humour, witty banter, sassiness, danger, tension, suspense, and surprising developments. I hadn’t realised that this was the third instalment when I dived in- but luckily, even though it is well into the series, it can be read as a standalone. Having said that though, I am intrigued by what might have happened in the previous books, so I will definitely be going back and explore the other two books before continuing on with any new instalments. I did enjoy the story, although it did get a little wordy in places, but thankfully that didn’t detract from my overall enjoyment of the mystery. Mimi took some getting used to, as she really annoyed me to begin with, which made it hard to connect with her- but I eventually found my groove as I got to know her better. The characters are well developed individuals with their own unique quirks and flaws, which gave the story an added element of interest and believability. I also appreciated the glossary of Yiddish/Hebrew/ and Diamond Industry terms provided at the back of the book- it also added interest, as well as making things easier to ‘understand’. The series (so far) contains: -A Murder Is Forever (Book #1) -Murder Is Not A Girl’s Best Friend (Book #2) -Slay It With A Diamond (Book #3) Looking forward to more from Mr. Bates. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-10-15 23:56:142023-10-19 12:41:18Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book #3) by Rob Bates – Review by Angela Hayes
Gah! You have no idea how excited I was to find that we were getting another Karina Cardinal mystery. I have adored her, and the series since the very beginning and I was starting to fret that there wouldn’t be another instalment. So colour me EXCITED!!! Spectral Revelations is the sixth exciting instalment in the Karina Cardinal Mystery series by Ellen Butler. This is an excellent mystery- with intriguing developments, crime and investigation, tension, some action, suspense, drama, emotion, agendas, set ups, banter, humour, colourful + quirky characters, and even a touch of the supernatural. Ms. Butler is a talented storyteller who never fails to deliver a cleverly constructed story, with each one upping the ante on the last. She always comes up with original and intriguing details that she constructs her stories around- which gives them their own unique flavour and identity. This one has a paranormal/supernatural touch that gives it an extra element of intrigue, tension, and mysteriousness. Again, Ms. Butler manages to create some intensity, with dramatic developments and gripping tension- which made the whole story quite an unpredictable and riveting ‘ride’. As we know from previous books, Karina Cardinal is a lawyer turned lobbyist in Washington D.C. She’s smart, controlled, spirited, independent and hard-working- but is also a bit of a magnet for trouble. Here, Karina is pulled into another mystery when her beloved aunt goes missing. Things surrounding her aunt’s disappearance are quite suspicious, and as we’ve come to know from past events, Karina can’t help but do some digging into the situation to try to uncover what happened (plus she’s voraciously curious by nature). Is her aunt in trouble, or is she guilty of a crime and gone on the run? With the help of her security expert boyfriend Rick, her sister Jilly, and Jilly’s fiancé Tony- the ‘Scooby Gang’ begin to unravel the mystery- unearthing corruption, greed, desperation, secrets, schemes, and more. Add in a ‘helpful’, albeit spooky ghost- and things take an engrossing turn. This is a fantastic story – wonderfully woven into a rich, detailed and thoroughly polished mystery- packed full of surprises which kept me avidly reading the whole way through. I can’t wait for more Karina Cardinal!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-10-15 23:45:092023-10-19 12:41:11Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book #6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Angela Hayes
Max Rosen does not believe in curses so when he’s offered a “cursed” diamond, he goes through with the transaction to acquire a rare black diamond. Max’s daughter, Mimi, is an amateur sleuth who starts investigating the lore behind the diamond. She comes across several different versions of the story that she is able to filter out.
This was a good book that held my attention throughout. The characters are well-developed and the story is easy to follow. There is mystery and intrigue, along with a small bit of romance, although that’s almost as complicated as the mystery.
This book is a part of a series but can be read as a standalone. There are mentions to previous cases involving Mimi but I don’t feel that missing the backstory affected this one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-10-15 21:28:212023-10-19 12:39:40Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Julie Johnson
An enjoyable and engaging cozy mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Having not realised it was part of a series I happily read it as a standalone story, however as I enjoyed this story I will be reading the previous books in the series. Max Rosen is a diamond dealer in New York and when he’s offered a ‘cursed’ diamond he buys it as he does not believe in curses. That is until the wife of the famous jeweller who sold him the ‘cursed’ gem ends up dead. Max’s daughter Mimi, a journalist and amateur sleuth decides to investigate along with her policeman boyfriend. The couple are soon drawn into the jewellers powerful family’s rather dark history, which includes bitter family feuds and long buried scandals. Mimi ends up at the family’s opulent mansion where she is rather surprised to find evidence that not only is the curse real but that it might kill her next. This was a fast paced story with an intriguing storyline and quirky characters which kept me happily turning the pages. It was a fun and at times humorous read, and the mystery element kept me guessing as the plot was full of twists and turns. An entertaining read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-10-15 16:40:352023-10-19 07:46:24Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This is a series that I have enjoyed reading from the first book. This is the sixth book which is just as great as the previous books. I highly suggest reading the previous books in this series to help your enhancement of the characters and this author’s writing skills. This is a well written story that is not only full of mystery but also hard to put down. Karina is back in another mystery but what happens when she has to call in recruitments and the clues are just not adding up. I enjoy Karina’s character. She is a strong character that makes the story easy to read. I enjoyed watching the growth of the characters and the plot throughout the story. I enjoyed how they brought the story to life on each page. I found this book to be fast paced and engaging. This is an entertaining story that I enjoyed reading. I highly recommend this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2023-10-14 10:44:262023-10-19 07:31:36Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Bobbi Wagner
4.5 stars Slay It With a Diamond is the third book in The Diamond District Mystery Series. Even though this is the third book in the series you could easily read it as a standalone. I am coming in from the wrong end and didn’t realise it until the end so will have to go back and start with the first book. It is a fun cosy mystery set in the heart of New York City’s Diamond District. Rob gives us an entertaining story which showcases his flawless knowledge and understanding of such a world. Our journalist turned detective, well detective might be a stretch, amateur sleuth is a better description, finds herself smack dab in the middle of the dark and dangers cutthroat underworld of diamonds, curses, the rich and powerful, feuds, lies and secrets. Mimi is an interesting character and I’m not really sure how to take her she is a mess really. She is naïve and jumps headfirst before thinking, thank God for her boyfriend is all I can say. I had mixed feeling about her at times and some of the other interesting and eclectic characters. There is mystery, tension, suspense, sass, wit and humour that I found myself laughing at times and shaking my head at others. It is a well-paced story that kept me guessing with enough twists and turns to keep the pages turning. Overall, this is a fun and entertaining and informative tale. I look forward to seeing what Rob brings next to the table.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-10-14 02:29:262023-10-19 07:30:32Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates – Review by Jenni Bishop
Would you buy a “cursed” diamond? New York diamond dealer Max Rosen would. He doesn’t believe in curses. But that was before the wife of the famous jeweler who sold him a supposedly “cursed” gem ended up dead.
Soon, Max’s daughter-journalist-turned-amateur-sleuth Mimi Rosen-and her policeman boyfriend are drawn into the dark history of the jeweler’s powerful family.
The trail leads Mimi to their opulent mansion, where she uncovers long-buried scandals, a bitter family feud, plus surprising evidence the curse is real-and might kill her next. Fun and fast-paced, and filled with heart and humor, SLAY IT WITH A DIAMOND not only puts the diamond and jewelry industry under the microscope, but tackles the age-old question of why sparkly objects enchant us so.
Rob Bates has written about the diamond industry for three decades. He is currently the news director of JCK, the leading publication in the jewelry industry. There, he has won 12 editorial awards, and been quoted as an industry authority in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and on National Public Radio. He is also a comedy writer and performer, whose work has appeared on FuseTV, comedycentral.com, and Mcsweeneys. He lives in Manhattan with his wife and son.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/slay-it-with-diamonds.jpeg500323itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-10-14 00:03:042023-12-29 09:34:47Slay It With a Diamond (Diamond District Mystery Book 3) by Rob Bates
What a lovely, entertaining and heartwarming cozy mystery this book turned to be. The book is a well written mystery that they author has taken the time to develop properly. It builds as each page goes on and I loved watching it all unravel to reveal who was behind it all. The characters really made this book for me though. I thought the author had introduced a fantastic set of characters who all added to the story in their own way. Everyone played a role and I really enjoyed getting to know each of them. Although this a still a relatively new author to me, I am really starting to enjoy getting to know her writing style. I have enjoyed every book so far and I am sure the next one will be no different.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2023-10-13 12:41:292023-10-19 07:25:56Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Kerry Baker
I loved this story. Where is Aunt Vera? I felt like I was following right there with Aunt Vera. That crazy cat was giving me goosebumps. It was a fantastic story and an amazing mystery to solve. I loved the romance with her and Rick (though it doesn’t seem that she keeps them long). It is still a very fun series that sucks you in with each story. I do believe that this is my favorite so far. I love the suspense the is there throughout the whole thing. I can’t wait for the next one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-13 08:50:052023-10-19 07:25:25Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
Time for a trip to Mexico. Seems like trouble followed. I loved this trip and reading about the trouble that followed. The characters are quite entertaining as well as exciting as I try to figure out the mystery. Again, the author does a wonderful job with her writing I was fully engaged and dove into the story. This has been a terrific series so far.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-13 08:40:402023-10-19 07:25:10Pharoah’s Forgery (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 4) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
Another winning installment in this fun cozy series, yes, I said fun. I like murder type cozies. They are fun to solve and generally have action and suspense. This author has a way of writing that brings you all in to the story and she also uses themes with each book. This was another story that I just jumped right into. I couldn’t put it down. I loved everything about it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-13 08:26:292023-10-19 07:23:53Diamonds & Deception (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 3) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
Wow!! I love how she grabbed me and threw me right into the story this time. Let’s jump right in and join the walk with her and Senator, who is probably having a heart attack. This story was intense and wonderful. I love these mysteries. This one had me right in there trying to figure it out with her. The story and writing is engaging and exciting.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-13 08:10:452023-10-19 07:23:43Fatal Legislation (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 2) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
This was a fascinating first book in the series. It’s fun and quite entertaining. Our protagonist has her own set of challenges to deal with while she, somehow, ends up solving mysteries. I love that she’s not a detective and this isn’t her primary job. She somehow has the resources to solve the case. What I didn’t know is that this is based on a true case. I loved the author’s writing. This is a story that grabs you right from the start and you can’t put the book down. A definite must read.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-13 07:57:202023-10-19 07:23:36Isabella’s Painting (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 1) by Ellen Butler – Review by Shelly Kittell
4.5 stars Murder at the Wedding is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series by Christine Knapp. This fast-paced cosy mystery is a great book to escape from the drudgery of normal life for a while. I enjoyed the added element of the midwives thrown in with the mystery. Christine’s easy writing style is engaging and dabbed throughout with a bit of humour. The easy banter, a touch of wit and descriptive narrative makes it enjoyable and the story flow nicely. It is a cleverly put together plot with ebbs and flows of complexities that keep the story moving forward. Add in a whole cast of quirky, unique and sometimes obnoxious characters is there any wonder there is mystery, murder, mishaps, mayhem and life and death, just to name a few, get ready for the fun to begin. With drama, fear, angst, ‘those’ kind of in-laws, a husband’s freedom and catering business on the line, a dachshund, suspects, agenda’s, motives and danger Maeve is desperate, so along with her barbed tongued sister and quick-witted mother, she sets out to find a murderer. Much to the chagrin of her reluctant police chief brother. Christine gives the reader an added bonus of easy to-follow recipes. Bon Appétit. If you love a good whodunit Murder at the Wedding is a must.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-10-13 05:11:252023-10-19 07:21:23Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Jenni Bishop
Spectral Revelations is the sixth book in the amazing Karina Cardinal Mysteries by Ellen Butler. I was so excited to see Ellen had another book out. I love this series and each book just keeps getting better and better. Each book could be read as a standalone, but I strongly encourage you to go back to book one where it all began, and we first met Karina. They are great stories. Ellen is a master at mystery and sure knows how to write a great story wrapped in lots of suspense, drama, danger, tension and so much more. Karina Cardinal and the gang are back, and I just love them all. Karina has the knack for finding herself in trouble or should I say trouble finds her but whatever happens it is a fun journey. Things go from bad to worse as she tries to solve the mystery of what has happened to Aunt Vera. With ghosts, humour, great characters and lots of surprises make for an amazing journey. Spectral Revelations is gripping, unpredictable and thrilling. It will have you laughing and your heart pounding at the same time. I love that we never know where Ellen will take the story or what is going to happen next. Another a brilliant tale from the legendary Ellen Butler. I thoroughly enjoy them.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jenni Bishophttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJenni Bishop2023-10-13 04:56:262023-10-19 07:21:16Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler – Review by Jenni Bishop
Karina’s aunt is missing—along with a list of historic treasures. Is she a victim or guilty party?
Karina is trying to keep her mind on getting a cosponsor for a bill, but it’s tough with her Mom blowing up her phone. By the time Karina finally stops hitting “ignore”, Mom is frantic. It appears Karina’s Aunt Vera has disappeared, fibbed to her employer about the reason for her absence, even abandoned her beloved cat, Nightshade—which is completely out of character. Karina would bet her favorite pair of designer shoes that Vera is in some kind of trouble.
However, when Karina hauls her cookies from D.C. to historic Williamsburg to search Vera’s house, she finds nothing suspicious. Except for a mischievous Civil War ghost who scares the bejesus out of her and keeps trashing Vera’s office. Until Karina realizes his seemingly random ectoplasmic tantrums have a purpose—revealing key evidence.
Something is definitely fishy, but the clues aren’t adding up. And as the spirit’s visitations become more urgent, Karina calls on reinforcements for help—her latest squeeze Rick Donovan and her sister Jillian. Because the cops are following faulty leads, which could put Vera on the wrong end of an arrest warrant … if she’s found alive.
Ellen Butler is the international bestselling author of the Karina Cardinal mystery series. Her experiences working on Capitol Hill and at a medical association in Washington, D.C. inspired the mystery-action series. Book critics call the Karina Cardinal mysteries, “intelligent escapism” and “unputdownable adventures that will take readers on an electrifying yet light-hearted and humorous journey.” Butler also writes historical spy fiction. Her WWII spy novel, The Brass Compass, recently won a 2022 Speak Up Talk Radio Firebird Book Award for historical fiction. The second book in the duology, Operation Blackbird: A Cold War Spy Novel, is Butler’s latest historical fiction. The novel is inspired by true events, and won a Next Generation Indie Book Award gold medal for historical fiction. Reviewers are calling it “riveting,” and, “a thrilling adventure.”
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/Spectral-Revelations-Cover-330dpi-.jpg1200744itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-10-13 00:01:182023-11-01 20:11:43Spectral Revelations (The Karina Cardinal Mysteries Book 6) by Ellen Butler
What happens when a spunky, streetwise eleven-year-old discovers a dead girl on a park bench? She ends up on the run and wanted for murder. If finding a dead girl wasn’t enough, the newspapers pin every body in Los Angeles on her. It’s 1932, and times are hard. The price on Sparky’s head gets bigger by the day. Lots of friends are willing to squeal for that kind of dough. Her candy buddies finger her to the cop who wants to lock her in an orphan home. Even the bookie she works for turns rat. None of her old haunts are safe. Sparky chooses a spooky old house for a hideout, and comes face-to-face with a maybe-real goblin and Tootsie, a former silent film star. Instead of turning her in, the strange pair become her partners in solving the crime. But with City Hall involved and cops on every corner anything can happen.
Firebird Book Award 1st Place Cozy Mystery Winner, Literary Titan Gold Medal Book Award Winner, Author Academy Top 10 Mystery Winner, and Critters Readers Poll Top 10 Finisher for both Best Mystery and Best Young Adult Book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/cold-kid-case.jpg1200800itsybitsybookbitshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngitsybitsybookbits2023-10-11 00:01:322023-11-10 20:21:08~☕️~📕~🔎 COVER REVEAL ~☕️~📘~🔍 The Cold Kid Case (Sparky of Bunker Hill Mystery Series) by Rosalind Barden
This is an Eve Sawyer mystery and it is absolutely fantastic. Eve is such a fantastic character whom I definitely love. Eve is staying at her friend’s house when a body is discovered. This means that it is all hands on deck to solve the mystery. This is definitely a page turner that keeps you guessing from the beginning to the end. It also takes you on an emotional roller coaster as the plot is full of drama. I definitely am loving the Eve Sawyer series and I cannot wait to read the next one!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christinehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine2023-10-08 18:12:342023-10-10 08:58:17A Death on Fools Lane (An Eve Sawyer Mystery) by Jane Suen – Review by Christine Baranek
I haven’t read a mystery in quite a while but the blurb for this grabbed my attention and I have to say it did not disappoint for even a second! I loved everything about it but especially the wonderful characters, Maeve, Will and all her family. Each and every character was so well written you can’t help but fall for them all and everything that they bring to this creative storyline. This is a new author for me and she now has a devoted fan in me for sure. I can’t wait for more!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Juleshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJules2023-10-08 16:31:392023-10-10 08:57:39Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Jules Herbert
Murder at the Wedding is Book One in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series. It is a cozy mystery with suspense, action, intrigue, drama, crime, and murder. The story centers around the character of Maeve who lives in the quaint little town of Langford located by the seaside in New England. Maeve works at the Creighton Memorial hospital as a midwife. When she is invited to a ritzy wedding at the Country Club for the daughter of the Chief Obstetrician at the hospital, she certainly is not expecting for him to suddenly drop dead during the reception. Maeve’s husband catered the event so now he is the prime suspect in the death of the man. Maeve enlists the help of her mother and sister to try to find the real killer and clear her husband’s name.
This book had an intriguing storyline and interesting cast of characters. Maeve was smart, witty, kind, caring, nurturing, and feisty. I loved that she was a midwife as this is something that I had not read before as an occupation for female MC’s. It was interesting to read the inner workings of being a midwife and what it entailed. Maeve was unable to have children of her own so bringing babies into the world for other women brought her immense joy. At times though, it could be difficult for her and emotionally exhausting. Maeve’s husband Will was sweet, kind, caring, understanding, and one heck of a good cook. He loved his work as a caterer and took great pride in the food he prepared for each event. Maeve and Will had a great marriage and were there for each other through even the most difficult times. I really enjoyed the witty banter between Maeve and the other characters and cracked up a few times at the clever things she would say. I highly recommend this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tara Johnson Barneshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTara Johnson Barnes2023-10-08 14:52:402023-10-10 08:57:23Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes
This was a really good book. I loved the mystery. The characters were well thought out and well written. I love a good whodunit, and this did not disappoint. I look forward to more books by Christine Knapp in the future.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Manda Kellyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngManda Kelly2023-10-07 22:42:382023-10-10 08:47:27Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Manda Kelly
Maeve O’Reilly Kensington is a midwife struggling with infertility who’s married to William. William has disappointed his family by opening a catering business instead of having a well-esteemed career like the rest of the family. They are desperately wanting to start a family but so far, it’s just not in the cards for them.
The wedding of the year is coming up soon and Will is hired to cater it. Everything must go as planned so that he doesn’t have to take out another loan and prove his family just how much of a failure he is. The bride’s father is the head of the Obstetrics unit where Maeve (rhymes with “brave) is employed. During the toast, Dr. Whitaker appears to be having a medical emergency and subsequently dies. Now everything that Will had planned to perfection is under a ton of scrutiny and his business may tank.
Maeve and her sister Meg begin to put together a variety of theories as to “whodunit”, against their brother Patrick’s better wishes. He desires for his sisters to let him do his job as a police officer and that they keep their day jobs as a midwife and realtor respectively. Not about to let a good situation pass by, Maeve and Meg do get involved and help to bring down the murderer.
First of all, I appreciate that this author has medical experience and that the terms and procedures described are done so accurately. That being said, a disclaimer should be issued for this book as it does have triggering issues for those who’ve experienced infertility or the loss of a child(ren). There are a few scenes that did not pertain to the overall solving the murder that could have been left out, however, they also give a “real-life” view into the role of a midwife. I did find the story engaging and appreciated the nice little twist at the end, although the murderer was pretty high on my list the whole time.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Julie Johnsonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJulie Johnson2023-10-07 20:21:062023-10-10 08:46:46Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Julie Johnson
<a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/196952668-a-death-on-fools-lane” style=”float: left; padding-right: 20px”><img border=”0″ alt=”A Death on Fools Lane (Eve Sawyer Mystery #4)” src=”https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1692906454l/196952668._SX98_.jpg” /></a><a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/196952668-a-death-on-fools-lane”>A Death on Fools Lane</a> by <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15415764.Jane_Suen”>Jane Suen</a><br/> My rating: <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5875808372″>4 of 5 stars</a><br /><br /> Who doesn’t love a mystery that takes place at Christmas time? Eve Sawyer, journalism student, is fun character to follow – she is just nosy enough to get involved in a murder investigation. As Eve investigates a suicide, she finds that it might just be a murder. I kept the pages turning as I wanted to see what she finds out, all the way until the end. This is a get cozy on your couch with a blanket and beverage and be ready to read until the end. <br/><br/> <a href=”https://www.goodreads.com/review/list/867231-tanya”>View all my reviews</a>
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tanya Wallhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTanya Wall2023-10-06 13:52:162023-10-10 08:36:26A Death on Fools Lane (An Eve Sawyer Mystery) by Jane Suen – Review by Tanya Wall, September 2023
Murder At the Wedding is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series by Christine Knapp. This is the first book that I have read by this author, so I really didn’t know what to expect from one of her books- but I do love a good cozy mystery, so I took a chance, grabbed myself a copy, and dove right in. What I discovered between the covers is a fun and entertaining cozy mystery with an intriguing storyline, tension, dramatic developments, family dynamics, murder, crime and investigation, a midwife ‘detective’, hospital politics, emotion, and interesting characters. I loved Maeve and her somewhat snarky and sarcastic inner dialogue, and witty banter. She really was the star of the show here and really helped to bring the whole story to life. I would love to see this book/series made into a television series, as Meave would be very entertaining on screen. I loved that the author gave her a bit of an original ‘occupation’, and she wasn’t the ‘typical’ writer, chef, bookstore owner, or wedding planner (etc) that we see so much of in cozy mysteries. I also liked the showing of the pregnancy info, ‘hospital’ workings, snippets of hospital procedure, hospital/workplace politics, and midwife work practices- as this added an extra element of interest to the story. Although saying that, there were a few tense, and/or emotional moments- and I will mention that there are some possible triggers included in the storyline, so consider this before diving in. The author has included sensitive topics in the day-to-day dealings of a midwife, and ‘real-life’ issues- but I think she did so in a mindful and considerate way (topics such as fertility issues, and loss of a baby). Maeve, and the supporting cast of characters are all really well-developed individuals, with their own unique personalities, quirks, and flaws. Ms. Knapp has an eye for detail and her story is wonderfully descriptive, setting the scenes beautifully- painting pictures with her words, and giving everything a ‘visual’ quality. I enjoyed the mystery and the ‘whodunnit’ aspect’ and the complex storyline, and other clever touches Ms. Knapp wove into her story- it made for an engrossing read. I will definitely be keeping an eye out for more of Ms. Knapps work in the future- as well as continuing with this series. Happy Reading…
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Angela Hayeshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAngela Hayes2023-10-05 23:43:262023-10-10 08:38:48Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book #1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Angela Hayes
Never being pregnant myself, I loved the facts/tidbits about pregnancy sprinkled at the beginning of each chapter. The start of the book contains a relevant quote from Moby Dick, which sets the tone for the whole book.
The line “I didn’t wake with nightmares. But then again, my nightmares were all coming in the daytime.” It sums up Maeve’s life as she tries to solve a mystery and save their family business. The book excels at character interactions and the main characters are fully flushed out. The field of obstetrics is also described, but not in a boring nonfiction way, but as part of the story.
I was also intrigued to read more about and find out “El Cid” could have been based on a real person!
I found the mystery to be easy to solve, but still really enjoyed this light hearted, fast read. I can’t wait to read the next book in the series!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Crainhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Crain2023-10-05 20:53:372023-10-10 08:27:07Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Jennifer Crain
This is the first book in the Modern Midwife Mysteries series. I absolutely love cozy mysteries so was looking forward to this one. It was enjoyable and a great introduction to the characters. The writing style flowed nicely and was easy to follow making for a nice quick read. The writing was descriptive so I could picture is all clearly as I tried to solve the case alongside Maeve. To start with I was unsure whether Maeve’s determination and strength came from wanted to clear Will’s name, but as we got to know her character she definitely seems like my kind of person. I also liked the mix of real information, cosy mystery and humour, it was balanced well and worked (and the fudge cake doesn’t hurt). I loved Maeve, her family and the interactions between the characters and I look forward to catching up with them again!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rebecahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRebeca2023-10-05 17:06:352023-10-10 08:31:21Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Rebeca Elliott Figueiras
I thoroughly enjoyed this engaging cozy mystery which kept me hooked throughout. Set in the New England seaside town of Langford, nurse-midwife Maeve O’Reilly Kensington works at Creighton Memorial Hospital. Maeve loves her job and enjoys helping women bringing new life into the world, but sadly her wish to have a child of her own with husband Will is yet to happen. Whilst supporting Will with his new catering business, Maeve attends the very extravagant wedding reception of the daughter of the Chief Obstetrician at Creighton Memorial. To everyone’s shock the doctor drops dead, and when Will’s catering is blamed Maeve starts her own investigation to find the killer and clear her husbands name. Along with her wealthy and acerbic sister Meg and her quick witted Irish mother, Maeve is determined to solve the murder, but as she try’s to stay one step ahead the killer is ready to strike again and this time Maeve and her loved ones are all at risk. This wonderfully written cozy mystery has well developed characters, a setting which comes to life through the descriptive narrative and a storyline which kept me happily turning the pages. Maeve is a great amateur sleuth as well as a nurse-midwife and I look forward to future books in this new series.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Jennifer Gordonhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngJennifer Gordon2023-10-05 15:25:332023-10-10 08:30:21Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Jennifer Gordon
This was a quick read for me. I liked the story but had trouble connecting with the plot which made it difficult for me to appreciate Maeve as much as I probably should. There was some fun humor woven into the story to balance some of the more delicate tones. Overall, a nice story.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Trish Annhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTrish Ann2023-10-04 08:28:022023-10-10 08:01:08Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Trish Ann
This turned out to be an exciting book. I loved how it started with the high-strung couple having to deal with the birth changes to her sister at the coffee shop then off to the wedding and the snooty in laws to a murder. Oops, forgot her hot husband and their trying to solve the murder. I loved this book. The danger, misadventures, pomposity of everything just makes this one heck of a fun mystery to read. Mauve and her siblings are a hoot. The story is perfect. I can’t wait for book 2.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Shelly Kittellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngShelly Kittell2023-10-04 06:23:452023-10-10 08:00:09Murder at the Wedding (Modern Midwife Mysteries Book 1) by Christine Knapp – Review by Shelly Kittell
We may request cookies to be set on your device. We use cookies to let us know when you visit our websites, how you interact with us, to enrich your user experience, and to customize your relationship with our website.
Click on the different category headings to find out more. You can also change some of your preferences. Note that blocking some types of cookies may impact your experience on our websites and the services we are able to offer.
Essential Website Cookies
These cookies are strictly necessary to provide you with services available through our website and to use some of its features.
Because these cookies are strictly necessary to deliver the website, refuseing them will have impact how our site functions. You always can block or delete cookies by changing your browser settings and force blocking all cookies on this website. But this will always prompt you to accept/refuse cookies when revisiting our site.
We fully respect if you want to refuse cookies but to avoid asking you again and again kindly allow us to store a cookie for that. You are free to opt out any time or opt in for other cookies to get a better experience. If you refuse cookies we will remove all set cookies in our domain.
We provide you with a list of stored cookies on your computer in our domain so you can check what we stored. Due to security reasons we are not able to show or modify cookies from other domains. You can check these in your browser security settings.
Google Analytics Cookies
These cookies collect information that is used either in aggregate form to help us understand how our website is being used or how effective our marketing campaigns are, or to help us customize our website and application for you in order to enhance your experience.
If you do not want that we track your visit to our site you can disable tracking in your browser here:
Other external services
We also use different external services like Google Webfonts, Google Maps, and external Video providers. Since these providers may collect personal data like your IP address we allow you to block them here. Please be aware that this might heavily reduce the functionality and appearance of our site. Changes will take effect once you reload the page.
Google Webfont Settings:
Google Map Settings:
Google reCaptcha Settings:
Vimeo and Youtube video embeds:
Other cookies
The following cookies are also needed - You can choose if you want to allow them:
Privacy Policy
You can read about our cookies and privacy settings in detail on our Privacy Policy Page.
Swindler’s Revenge by Ellen Butler
