3.5

This was an excellent, quick read, and especially enjoyable in between books of a more 'heavier' nature. Great read.

2.5 stars

It was fine - starting to build more character back story, but the mystery felt like it was a bit threadbare/rushed.

Another novella from the Cherringham universe. This was a satisfying story of a suspected murder that had quite a surprisingly but also humorous ending. I feel like this showcased the authors’ skills better than the first novella as the characterizations were so key to reader enjoyment of this book.

So glad I stumbled on this serialized cozy murder mystery series. I’m also glad that each novella is standalone although I’m trying to read them in order!

Jack Brennan, a former NYPD detective has retired to Cherringham, England. He and Sarah Edwards, a single mom recently moving back to her hometown of Cherringham began a friendship after teaming up to help solve the murder of a friend. Now, Sarah’s friend Hope asks for their help solving the mystery of the death of an elderly man who died in a mysteries fire. Sarah and Jack agree and soon find plenty of suspects in what originally seemed to be an accident.

This short novel is the second book in the “Cherringham – A Cosy Crime Series.” Each book features a new story with Jack and Sarah. This second story can be read without reading the first since the plot of the mystery stands alone from the prior book, but you will not get to know the characters as well without reading the prior book first. Jack and Sarah are each appealing characters who are learning to deal with big changes in their lives and make a great team.

I enjoyed the way the two characters worked together to solve the crime, each using their own strengths to get to the truth of the case. Jack is learning to adjust to life in England, so it’s interesting to see him learn the differences between American English and The Queen’s English.

The plot will appeal to fans of Agatha Christie. The dialog is sometimes a bit stilted, but I enjoyed the book and would like to read more of the fast-paced, easy-to-read mysteries.

I received this book from NetGalley, through the courtesy of Bastei Entertainment, in exchange for an honest review.