Devi Nair

🎭 Genre: Nordic Thriller 🎧 Format: Audiobook 🎙 Narrator: Sam Woolf ⏳ Duration: 7 hours Publisher: Minotaur Books & Macmillan Audio

Book blurb:

Death at the Sanatorium by Ragnar Jónasson is a gripping thriller that effortlessly builds atmosphere and tension from the first chapter, pulling you into its chilling mystery set in Iceland. I found the pacing smooth and engaging, carrying me almost all the way to the end. The ending, however, didn’t hit quite as hard as I hoped — a bit underwhelming next to the story’s strong momentum. What truly deepened my connection was Jónasson’s author’s note, revealing his deep admiration for Agatha Christie and his efforts translating her work into Icelandic, which added a special layer of appreciation for his storytelling.

Let’s Talk about the book:

From the very first chapter, Death at the Sanatorium gripped me. The atmosphere, pacing, and tension carried me smoothly from start to (almost) finish, and Jónasson’s ability to craft a chilling mystery is undeniable. The ending, however, left me feeling a little unsatisfied—it felt slightly off compared to the brilliant drive of the rest of the book, and I couldn’t help but wish it had landed with more impact.

What truly deepened my appreciation, though, wasn’t just the story itself but the author’s note at the end (which, of course, I read first). Jónasson revealed how much of an admirer he is of Agatha Christie, and how he has translated 14 of her novels into Icelandic. He also shared that he started reading Christie’s work at a very young age—just like me. The only difference is that, growing up, I had the privilege of reading her books in English and always had access to her complete body of work. Jónasson, on the other hand, struggled to find Icelandic translations, since not all of her books were available in his language. Instead of accepting that gap, he decided to solve it for the next Christie-loving kid in Iceland by translating them himself.

As a huge Christie fan, this revelation instantly endeared him to me. I can see her influence woven into his storytelling, and it makes me appreciate his writing on an entirely different level.

Overall, while the conclusion didn’t quite meet the heights of the build-up, the journey was still captivating. And knowing the Christie connection? That gives Jónasson’s books a special place on my shelf.

Would I recommend it?

Definitely a worthwhile read for fans of atmospheric, intricately woven mysteries and those who appreciate the golden age detective style. Fun and engaging, though just missing a truly strong finale. Sam Woolf’s narration is a big plus if you go the audiobook route. Add this to your TBR if you love a Northern noir twist on classic murder mysteries!

⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5.

Share your thoughts!

Have you read any other Ragnar Jónasson books or enjoy Icelandic thrillers? How do you feel about mysteries with dual timelines. Do they draw you in or distract you? Let’s hear your thoughts! Links to the book:

The Club is an intense and absorbing tale that pulls readers into a glittering yet toxic world of the rich and famous, where every cocktail comes with a side of secrets. The story’s strength lies in its raw, gritty depiction of wealth, privilege, and the way corruption trickles down to those caught in its wake. The morally complex characters and their perverse habits offer a thrilling, if unsettling, glimpse into the underbelly of affluence.

Tamaryn Payne’s narration was a highlight, electric and engaging, giving each character a distinct energy that kept the sprawling cast vivid.

Where the book faltered for me was in its execution. The sheer number of perspectives made the narrative feel cluttered, and I often found myself confused about whose point of view I was following. Compounding this, the audiobook included references such as “continuing from page xx” at the start of some chapters. Without a physical book to flip back to, these cues were disorienting and left parts of the story difficult to fully follow.

While the dark twists and ambitious storytelling had me hooked at times, the uneven pacing and disjointed structure ultimately kept this from being a standout listen. A mixed experience overall.

One of the most comforting and amazing cozy mysteries I’ve read this year, Murder Most Fowl by Carmela Dutra goes straight onto my favorites shelf, right up there with Vicki Delaney and Carol J. Perry. This book reminded me why I adore cozy mysteries.  Murder Most Fowl has everything I crave: the charm of small-town life, a cast of colorful characters, and an intriguing whodunit that managed to keep me guessing until the end.

What stood out most, though, was the heart in these pages. The portrayal of sibling love between the twins felt so authentic. It’s that perfect push-and-pull dynamic of love and exasperation that only a sibling relationship brings. Add in Beth’s effortless and genuine friendship with Rylie, and suddenly this wasn’t just a cozy mystery, it was a warm slice of life with people I didn’t want to leave behind.

It was with a heavy heart that I finished reading the book. I didn't want to exit the world of Seth, Beth, and Rylie. And oh my goodness, Tina Wolstencroft’s narration is incredible. She gives Beth her own personality with such precision and charm, it feels like she stepped right out of Carmela’s imagination.

I can’t wait for the next book in what I hope will be a long, long, looooong series. Carmela Dutra has just earned a permanent place on my cozy mystery reading list.

Three words sum up my experience with The Inheritance: Insane. Intense. Incredible.

If you’re searching for a bingeable thriller with toxic family drama and jaw-dropping twists, The Inheritance by Trisha Sakhlecha should shoot to the top of your TBR. I started this psychological thriller audiobook on a workday morning, thinking I’d pace myself but Trisha Sakhlecha’s writing drags you in immediately. She creates a dark, twisted world with no escape, making it impossible to put the book down. This audiobook hooked me instantly, with narrators Avita Jay, Ellie Kendrick, and Tamaryn Payne delivering a masterclass in storytelling that amplifies every ounce of tension.

The Agarwals are a gloriously toxic bunch each character so unlikable, you’re torn between wanting them to face their comeuppance or wield the knife themselves. As an Indian reader, I shuddered at the thought of being trapped in this family’s web of greed, betrayal, and secrets, set against a claustrophobic Scottish island backdrop.

The audiobook experience is even more immersive, with Avita Jay, Ellie Kendrick, and Tamaryn Payne delivering mesmerizing narration. Their performances make the storytelling personal and immediate, drawing listeners deeper into every fraught exchange. Each twist left me genuinely guessing: which family member would betray, and who would fall victim to the dynasty’s curse? Not once did I wish for a break during the ten-hour listen. There’s simply no lag, only tightly layered secrets and gasp-worthy revelations.

What sets this suspenseful mystery apart is its masterful handling of the big reveal. Many thrillers save the secret for the final chapter, leaving a few pages for closure, but here, you’re guessing until the very last word, and the ending is truly unexpected. I was floored. The unlikable cast only heightens the stakes, making every revelation more deliciously chaotic. If you crave heart-pounding psychological thrillers or family dramas with bite, this is your next obsession.

Anthologies are always a gamble. You hope for variety without losing cohesion, for sharp writing without filler. The Mysterious Bookshop Presents the Best Mystery Stories of the Year 2025, curated by Otto Penzler with an introduction by John Grisham, does exactly that. It’s a literary sampler platter for mystery lovers, bringing together 20 tales that showcase the genre’s wide range: from noir grit to classic whodunits to psychological suspense.

Several tales lingered long after the listen:

The Golden Road by David Avallone – a bittersweet story of survival. Home Game by Craig Faustus Buck – a clever, tightly wound domestic mystery. The Art of Disappearance by April Kelly – haunting moral dilemmas set in the swamp. Jamming at Jollies by Tracy Falenwolfe – a moving tale of second chances. Totality by James A. Hearn – a cold case solved under a solar eclipse. Through Thick and Thin by Andrew Welsh-Huggins – secrets, twists, and tension. The Problem of Cell 13 by Jacques Futrelle – a classic locked-room mystery bonus.

Narrators Marnye Young and Jamie Renell keep the pacing lively and voices distinct, making this audiobook perfect for quick dips or binge listening. With such variety, there’s truly a story here for every mystery fan—cozy, twisty, dark, or heart-pounding. Whether you like your mysteries cozy, atmospheric, dark, or twisty, this collection delivers. If quick, satisfying reads packed with suspense are your thing—this is one to add to the TBR for sure.

My brain is still fried from how twisty and unexpected this book was. I picked it up not realizing it’s the third in Ragnar Jónasson’s Helgi Reykdal Mystery series. But because I’d already started, I didn’t have the patience to go back and read the first two. And here’s the good news! This crime thriller works perfectly as a stand-alone. (So if you’re hesitating because you haven’t read the series, you are SO WRONG. You have no excuse. Go pre-order it today!)

The story zips between 2012, where Helgi hunts for missing author Elín, 2005, revealing her dark secrets, and 1976, tying in a bank robbery with Helgi’s predecessor, Hulda. The Nordic chill seeps through every page, and the narrators’ crisp delivery amps up the suspense. The structure is a masterclass in misdirection, blending snippets of police interviews, flashbacks to a decades-old crime, and Helgi's offbeat personal drama. The domestic violence subplot, where Helgi himself is the victim, packs honesty you rarely see in mainstream crime fiction.

Here’s the tea: I thought I had this mystery pegged. First, it felt like The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo with its layered character reveals. Then, I swore it was channeling Emily Henry’s "The Great Big Beautiful Life". By the end, I was betting on an Agatha Christie Peril at End House twist. Wrong, wrong, and wrong again! Jónasson keeps you guessing with a climax that ties up Elín’s case but leaves a maddening cliffhanger for Helgi’s story. The pacing is snappy, the Icelandic setting is moody perfection, and the audiobook’s multi-narrator magic makes every twist pop. Mark your calendars for this September 9, 2025 release! It’s a must for mystery fans!

Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC!

I’ll be honest: I didn’t have high expectations going into Kill Joy by Holly Jackson, mostly because A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder just didn’t click for me. But at just three hours long in audio, I decided to give it a try. And wow, this novella worked for me in a way the main novel never did.

The setup is simple but surprisingly fun. A group of teens are drawn into a 1920s-themed murder mystery dinner party, each one taking on a role in the game. Holly Jackson makes the fake investigation just as engaging as a “real” one. It becomes a layered game of clues and secrets—you know it is make-believe, but Pip Fitz-Amobi approaches it with the same relentless curiosity that defines her character throughout the series. Following her through the red herrings, the mistakes, and the final reveal kept me hooked from start to finish.

The audiobook narrators—Bailey Carr, Raymond J. Lee, and Bruce Mann—deliver distinct, lively performances that give the ensemble cast real energy and personality.

The ending felt especially satisfying. Without giving spoilers, I appreciated Jackson’s choice. It was grounded and realistic, though I would have been just as happy with a more traditional twist. What impressed me most was how well Kill Joy stands on its own. Even if you never read A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder, this novella works perfectly as a standalone. For once, I genuinely enjoyed being inside Pip’s head, no baggage required.

If you’re looking for a short, clever, and entertaining YA mystery audiobook, Kill Joy is a great pick. It is the perfect listen for fans of murder mystery games, Holly Jackson’s storytelling, or anyone wanting a fast-paced introduction to Pip Fitz-Amobi’s world.

🎧 Listened in audio 📢 Narrated by Jim Frangione ⏱ Duration: 9 hours 📱📖 Also read as ARC 📃 320 pages 🏷️ Publisher: Recorded Books and Minotaur Books | Release Date: April 14, 2026

Sixteen books in, and Spencer Quinn still has me wrapped around Chet's dewclaw. Cat on a Hot Tin Woof feels both comfortably familiar and surprisingly fresh, like your favorite sweater that somehow got softer in the wash. We’re back to cat-hunting (a full-circle moment if you’ve been here since A Cat Was Involved), and Chet is… not thrilled. Chet's disdain for cats collides beautifully with his soft spot for Bitty, the teen girl whose livelihood depends on finding Miss Kitty. The way Chet describes her ("the moon shines out of her eyes") is so earnest and dog-brained that I actually got misty. He doesn't want to care about this case, but he cares about her, and that's everything.

This one hit a little harder emotionally for me. Chet getting lost and ending up in the pound (no collar, no Bernie) was rough. I felt that panic. I heard it in the narration. And maybe that’s why the quick reunion felt like a tiny cheat… but also, I’ll allow it because I cannot handle prolonged separation. The mystery itself is twisty without being convoluted. There's social media commentary woven in (internet fame, sponsors, the financial pressure on a struggling family), but it never feels preachy. Quinn keeps it light, filtered through Chet's hilariously oblivious POV.

And Chet's evolving too. More protective. More aggressive when Bernie's in danger. His "so therefore" logic is sharper, even if he doesn't realize he's doing detective work. Sixteen books later, Spencer Quinn hasn’t lost the magic. If anything, he’s deepened it.

Would I recommend it? If you're already a Chet and Bernie fan, this is a no-brainer. If you've never met Chet, honestly, start with Book 1 (Dog On It), but this would work as a standalone too. It's cozy mystery comfort food with just enough bite to keep you guessing. The narration by Jim Frangione is chef's kiss. He IS Chet. Warm, twisty, emotionally sneaky in the best way.

I can’t believe this series has come to an end. As a huge fan of Mr. Lemoncello, Kyle Keeley, and all their friends, saying goodbye feels bittersweet. This final adventure is an emotional roller coaster, not just because of my own feelings, but because the story itself is packed with excitement and heart.

In this grand finale, thirteen thirteen-year-olds compete for the ultimate prize: Mr. Lemoncello’s entire empire. Ever since the last book, he’s made it clear: there can only be one winner. But who will it be?

Kyle, Sierra, Simon, Soraiya, and a fresh batch of competitors brought a friendship so pure it felt like sunshine in book form. Sierra’s clever wit sparkled, while Charles Chiltington, ever the schemer, planted a mole in the game, stirring up delicious drama. The emotional finale wrapped this series in a whimsical, heart-wrenching bow.

The stakes have never been higher, and the twists kept me hooked from start to finish. The ending was both surprising and deeply satisfying, tying together the series in a way that honors its clever puzzles, wild imagination, and memorable characters.

I turned the last page with a very heavy heart, wishing there was just one more game, one more riddle, one more adventure in the Lemoncello Library. A truly “fantabulous” send-off to one of the most joyful series I’ve ever read.

It’s downright wild how The Hunting Party dials up the toxicity within its friend group until it almost feels surreal. So many red herrings, emotional landmines, and secret histories that the drama barely lets up. Lucy Foley has crafted these characters to be part of a tradition: old “friends” who have become more like frenemies, holding together out of habit and nostalgia rather than genuine warmth. Their connections are heavy with grudges, betrayals, and the kind of competitive edge that makes every gathering a potential battleground.

There are plenty of red herrings, which is fun for a whodunit, but the excess left me more confused than intrigued. Add in the toxicity of this so-called “friend group”, the bullying, manipulation, and constant undercutting, and I couldn’t help but wonder: why are they even friends? Friends are the family you choose, and you can always “unchoose.” Maybe I’m naive, or maybe just lucky, but I’ve never met people who thrive in such poisonous relationships.

The audiobook narrations were a mixed bag: the female narrators, Elle Newlands, Morag Sims, Imogen Church, and Moira Quirk, brought lively energy and emotional nuance to their characters. Unfortunately, Gary Furlong’s narration of Doug fell flat, depriving a key character of the depth and grittiness he deserved.

It’s not a bad thriller, but it’s not one I’ll be raving about at book club either, considering I am reading this for a book club. If you love complex mysteries, it’s worth a shot. Just keep a character chart handy.

What worked for me right away was the relationship between Freya and Aunt Carole. Their dynamic had that honest, intergenerational warmth I crave in cozy mysteries. Bound by a genuine niece-aunt bond, they embark on a treasure hunt sparked by a cryptic letter from Carole’s late friend, Arthur. The early chapters sparkle with intrigue, unfolding in a creaky manor filled with hidden passages and suspicious characters.

Emilia Fox’s narration was a delight—her crisp delivery brought each quirky moment and tense exchange to life.

Where it stumbled a little for me was in the detail-heavy world of antiques. While fascinating on the surface, the specialized jargon sometimes slowed the pacing, especially for those without niche knowledge. At times it veered from clever to a bit confusing.

Still, the heart of the story, Freya and Carole’s dynamic kept me hooked. The mystery wrapped up with a satisfying, if slightly predictable, twist. Not a perfect debut, but one with enough charm to make me curious about the next book in the series.

Julia Alvarez’s The Cemetery of Untold Stories is a haunting blend of magical realism, Dominican history, and the universal ache of unfinished business. In this latest work of literary fiction, retired author Alma buries her abandoned drafts in Dominican soil, only to discover the stories refuse to stay silent. Instead, they rise up—demanding to be told.

What starts as a quirky premise quickly becomes a profound metaphor for the immigrant experience, always split between languages, countries, and memories, always translating loss into legacy. Characters like Bienvenida and Manuel don’t simply haunt the page; they seize it, bringing fury, love, and rebellion to the forefront.

At its core, this novel asks timeless questions: Whose stories deserve to be told? Who decides when a tale is finished? Alvarez explores these themes with her signature lyricism, weaving together Dominican culture, family history, and magical elements that feel both grounded and otherworldly.

The audiobook performance by Alma Cuervo is stunning: warm, layered, and deeply sensitive. Her narration elevates the text, giving each ghostly voice a presence that lingers long after listening.

That said, the pacing does falter at times. Around the 50–75% mark, I found my attention wandering as certain sections stretched longer than necessary. Still, the story regains momentum toward the end, closing with resonance and beauty.

For fans of Julia Alvarez books, magical realism novels, and literary fiction audiobooks, The Cemetery of Untold Stories is a moving meditation on memory, loss, and the power of storytelling. A must-read (or must-listen) for anyone who has ever grieved their own lost words.

I picked up The Fury by Alex Michaelides as part of my Book Club challenge, and it instantly caught my attention with its irresistible premise. Set against the glamorous yet sinister backdrop of Hollywood, the story brings together past and present stars on a secluded island for an exclusive event. But when the glitz fades and the bodies start piling up, this glittering retreat turns into a deadly game of secrets and betrayal.

The writing dives deep into the dark side of the entertainment industry, with descriptions that are vivid, binge-worthy, and dripping with tension. Imagine the perfect storm of celebrity drama, suspense, and murder mystery! That's exactly the vibe this book delivers. The setup with glamorous guests, toxic relationships, and an isolated island, felt straight out of an Agatha Christie-inspired whodunit, but with a modern psychological thriller twist.

What truly makes The Fury stand out is the unreliable narrator, Eliot Chase. His descent from wide-eyed observer to manipulative schemer and finally into something far more sinister, is a wild ride. Watching his psychological unraveling gave the book its most compelling edge, keeping me hooked to my Kobo Libra Colour (a birthday gift) like I was bingeing a Hollywood drama turned murder mystery thriller.

That said, the ending left me wanting more. Too many unanswered questions and shallow Hollywood stereotypes (the catty diva, the shady producer) kept the finale from reaching the truly haunting potential it had promised. With such a gripping setup, I expected a knockout conclusion, but instead, it felt like the story dropped the ball. 1 like

Thank you, NetGalley, for the copy.

Dive into the charming world of A Skeleton in the Closet, a middle-grade mystery that blends cozy vibes with a heartfelt punch. Mizzy, our unforgettable heroine, is a firecracker—smart, stubborn, and brimming with determination to be taken seriously. Claire Hatcher-Smith, a speech-language pathologist, crafts Mizzy with authenticity, drawing from her 35 years working with neurodivergent kids. The result? A protagonist who’s relatable, inspiring, and never defined by her Down syndrome.

The story’s pacing keeps readers hooked with clues, red herrings, and plot twists that rival popular kid detectives like those in Robin Stevens’ or Sharna Jackson’s series. What makes this book not just another mystery is its heart—the emotional weight behind Mizzy's determination to be seen and heard stealthily drives the suspense and the personal stakes. The diary discovery adds a cool, eerie vibe that escalates the tension and keeps young readers guessing.

The writing style is accessible yet richly detailed, appealing to kids aged 8 to 12 looking for a page-turner that is more than just a whodunit. This book is ideal for book clubs, classrooms, and young readers craving a mystery filled with heart, diversity, and clever detective work.

Jonathan Whitelaw returns with another clever and witty cozy mystery in The Concert Hall Killer, part of his popular Amita and Jason cozy crime series. Set against the glamorous yet cutthroat world of classical music, this installment blends humor, sharp dialogue, and a puzzling whodunit that will keep readers guessing until the very last page.

Jason and Amita, the son-in-law and mother-in-law duo, are a riot, bickering like, well a mother-in-law and a son-in-law, while chasing clues. Their dynamic is the pulse of this book, blending humor with a knack for sniffing out trouble. The setting, a TV drama shoot gone wrong, adds a fresh spin, with Penrith’s starry-eyed locals stealing the show as social media sleuths. I really enjoyed how Whitelaw brings Amita and Jason’s dynamic to life once again. Their banter, though occasionally veering into filler, adds a unique rhythm to the story. The murder mystery itself is strong, packed with twists, red herrings, and a backstage look into rivalries that feel both theatrical and sinister. However, at over 350 pages, the narrative could have been a little tighter for an even punchier read.

Fans of British cozy mysteries, amateur sleuth tales, and series like Richard Osman’s Thursday Murder Club will find plenty to love here. Whitelaw’s writing has a distinctly modern and entertaining flair, making The Concert Hall Killer a great pick for anyone who enjoys light-hearted but cleverly plotted crime fiction.

The Haunted Haven series continues its cozy charm in Haunting License. With its small-town setting, quirky characters, and a dash of the supernatural, it delivers exactly what cozy mystery fans expect: light suspense balanced with a fun, breezy tone. The light tone and playful ghostly antics balance the whodunit, making it easy to settle in with a mug of tea and escape to Haven, Florida. It’s the sort of read where you know what you’re getting: a small town with big personality, gentle humor, and a cast that feels like old friends. C.S.E. Cooney’s narration adds a breezy charm, her voice perfectly matching the story’s easygoing pace.

That said, one element didn’t quite work for me: the relationship between Maureen and Ted. While I appreciate that this series leans on mystery rather than romance, the dynamic between them feels a bit flat. It’s like they’re reading from a script labeled “couple,” with zero chemistry to sell it. Their forced dynamic feels like an afterthought, pulling me out of the story’s spell. It’s a reminder that while cozies do their best work with charming communities, a dash of realistic romance can help anchor the heart of the story.

Still, the ghostly antics and cozy setting were enough to keep me hooked, happily flipping pages to the end

Listening to the BBC production of Ngaio Marsh’s When in Rome was like being transported straight into the heart of the Eternal City—with murder lurking just beneath the ancient stones. Marsh’s ability to weave the rich atmosphere of Rome into a tightly plotted mystery is masterful, and the BBC voices bring it all to life with such energy and nuance.

Inspector Roderick Alleyn feels as sharp and commanding as ever, but what I loved most here was how the setting became almost another character in the story. The clash of culture, history, and intrigue made the mystery feel layered and utterly captivating.

As someone who treasures Golden Age mysteries in the spirit of Agatha Christie, this production reminded me why Marsh is such a gem. Hearing her story performed gave it an immediacy and vibrancy that pulled me in completely. When in Rome is atmospheric, clever, and timeless—a true treat for any mystery lover.

If you love cozy mysteries set in charming villages with a dash of humor, The Village Hall Vendetta by Jonathan Whitelaw is worth picking up. This is the second installment in the Amita and Jason Mysteries, and it delivers plenty of small-town intrigue, secrets, and witty banter. The setup is pure gold for those who crave small-town intrigue: a cursed artwork, a murder at the center of a village event, and the blend of quirky locals and red herrings.

One of the strongest aspects of the book is the dynamic duo at its heart—Amita and Jason. Their partnership is equal parts entertaining and exasperating. I really enjoy their chemistry and contrasting personalities, which bring both warmth and energy to the story. The plot itself is satisfyingly twisty, perfectly capturing the “cosy crime” feel with just enough edge to keep those pages turning.

But let’s get into the nitty-gritty. While Amita and Jason are the stars (and honestly, I would read a grocery list if they were bantering over it), there are moments where their constant bickering feels like it’s stretching the page count more than the tension. At over 350 pages, the story meanders in places, sometimes letting those snappy dialogues wander off into the weeds. Still, Whitelaw’s vivid descriptions of the Lake District and Visual Imagery and his knack for light-hearted dialogue make this a cozy escape worth savoring. The emotional depth sneaks up on you, too, with moments that tug at the heartstrings.

Listening to the BBC production of Ngaio Marsh’s Opening Night has been an absolute delight. Marsh already knows how to set a stage—literally, in this case—and hearing her words brought to life through performance only amplifies the magic. The theatre world she paints is full of atmosphere: the tension backstage, the egos, the rivalries, all culminating in a mystery that is as clever as it is entertaining.

Inspector Roderick Alleyn once again commands the story with intelligence and quiet authority, but what really shines in this adaptation is the ensemble of voices. Each character feels distinct and vivid, and the performances capture Marsh’s wit and sharp dialogue beautifully.

As someone who adores Golden Age mysteries in the spirit of Agatha Christie, experiencing Opening Night through the BBC production felt like stepping straight into Marsh’s world. It’s theatrical, suspenseful, and immersive—proof that her mysteries are as timeless in sound as they are on the page

I stumbled upon Ngaio Marsh completely by accident, and I honestly feel like I’ve been missing out on a whole world of brilliant literature until now! A Man Lay Dead pulled me in from the very first page. The setting—a country house weekend—feels both cozy and suspenseful, like stepping into a perfectly crafted puzzle where every character could be hiding secrets.

Inspector Roderick Alleyn’s introduction is nothing short of brilliant. He’s intelligent, perceptive, and has a subtle charm that makes following his investigation utterly enjoyable. The twists and turns kept me guessing, and yet everything felt meticulously planned, as if Marsh had orchestrated the story with a masterful hand. What really struck me was Marsh’s wit and the way she breathes life into her characters. Every personality is distinct, every motive feels plausible, and the tension builds steadily, making the reveal both satisfying and surprising. I found myself completely absorbed, forgetting the world outside the pages.

Discovering A Man Lay Dead has been like opening a door to a literary world I didn’t even know I was missing. I can’t wait to explore more of Marsh’s work—I already know this is just the beginning of a wonderful journey into classic mystery. This book is a delight for anyone who loves clever plotting, richly drawn characters, and a story that keeps you guessing until the very end.

After discovering Ngaio Marsh with A Man Lay Dead, I couldn’t wait to dive into her next work—and A Surfeit of Lampreys did not disappoint! From the very first page, I was swept into a world that is both delightfully sinister and darkly humorous. The Lamprey family is eccentric, cunning, and delightfully wicked, making the story as much about character as it is about mystery.

Inspector Roderick Alleyn returns with his usual intelligence and charm, skillfully navigating a web of secrets and schemes that kept me guessing at every turn. Marsh’s prose is sharp, witty, and wonderfully descriptive, bringing the setting and characters to life in a way that feels immersive and timeless.

As someone who adores mysteries from the Agatha Christie era, reading this felt like finding a hidden literary treasure I never knew existed. Cleverly plotted, endlessly entertaining, and full of the intrigue I live for, A Surfeit of Lampreys has only deepened my fascination with Marsh’s work. I can’t wait to explore more of her brilliant mysteries!

Going in, I expected The Queens of Crime to feel a bit like Roseanne Limoncelli’s Four Queens of Crime, a story where each legendary writer would carry equal weight. Instead, what we get is very much told through the eyes of Dorothy L. Sayers. On the plus side, she’s such a fascinating woman, whip-smart and commanding on the page. But the trade-off was seeing Agatha, Margery, and Ngaio more as supporting characters than true equals, which undercut the “four queens” promise for me. The concept, four legendary crime writers solving a real mystery, is electric, and I loved stepping into their 1930s world. Bessie Carter’s narration is a standout, especially her spot-on New Zealand accent for Ngaio Marsh, breathing life into each character.

The pacing stumbled in the middle stretches, with sections that could easily have been trimmed without losing the story’s heart. I also couldn’t help but notice the repeated use of “frozen” during tension-filled moments—it felt overdone and made the climactic sequences less sharp than they could have been. On top of that, the choice to use a first-person narrative for a story spanning decades rang a little inauthentic, especially when trying to capture long-past events.

Overall, while not perfect, The Queens of Crime is an enjoyable read for fans of historical fiction, literary biographies, and crime writing enthusiasts.

I’ll be honest: the story starts slowly. Had I been reading the physical book, I might have given up in the first 40% of the pages. But thanks to the phenomenal narration by Amy Landon, I stayed hooked, and boy, am I glad I did. Landon absolutely breathed life into the story, her voice adding charm and rhythm where, on the page, I might have struggled. But somewhere around the 40–45% mark, something clicked. From there, it transformed into a dazzling, high-stakes ride that had me hooked straight through to the final, heartwarming ending.

From that midpoint, it’s a gripping, all-in ride filled with secrets, betrayals, and magical mayhem that had me glued to my earbuds until the stunning, heartwarming end. Bianca Marais crafts a sisterhood that’s messy, bold, and fiercely lovable. It delivered a magical mix of charm, feminist defiance, and emotional punches that surprised me in the best way. The relationships between the witches were the heartbeat of the book. Their camaraderie, arguments, and absolute loyalty to one another gave the narrative depth beyond potions and spells. I especially appreciated Rose’s gender fluidity arc—a thoughtful, affirming thread that added so much texture to the story. Seeing her accepted without hesitation by the coven was a powerful, beautiful reminder of what unconditional sisterhood and inclusivity should look like.

That said, a few things grated. The word “mule-like” for stubbornness was everywhere—every witch got the label, and it felt repetitive. Also, the sexual innuendos were a bit much; boldness in these older witches didn’t need to lean so hard into risqué vibes, making it a no-go for younger readers. Add this to your TBR for a slow-burn start that delivers a powerful, enchanting finish.

Let’s get it out there: the mystery sparkles in this installment. Maureen finding herself wrapped up in yet another local murder feels right at home, especially with the town’s ghosts popping up at just the right (or wrong) times. The dog Finn steals plenty of scenes, especially with his hilarious misunderstandings—“vet” as “validate”? A+ canine comic relief. The ghosts and the inn’s lively elderly residents, their quirks and advice bring heart and laughter to every chapter, making it feel like settling into your favorite recliner with friends who just happen to be dead (and very opinionated).

But let’s talk about that central romance. Maureen and Ted are engaged but generate the chemistry of two polite coworkers at an awkward holiday party. For all the emotional depth layered into the Haven House mysteries, the romance consistently falls flat, never really convincing as a swoony or even comfortably warm pairing. Still, the supporting cast more than picks up the slack: detective Frank, with his bulldog (sometimes literally) approach, cracks me up, and the sleuthing ghosts never let the plot slow down for long. The setting—half sunny Florida, half haunted getaway—remains its own kind of magic, and the parade of eccentric seniors makes every scene shine.

I went into this book expecting a clever, intricate puzzle-driven mystery, and at first, it delivered on that front. The opening hooked me with its promise of riddles, codes, and intellectual twists. But as the story progressed, it started shifting directions—first into spirituality, then the supernatural, then a dive into quantum physics—and by the time I reached the end, I felt more confused than intrigued.

The pacing was uneven, and somewhere around the midpoint, I found myself speed reading, just trying to keep up with the increasingly tangled narrative. Despite that, I still felt bored and disconnected from both the story and its characters. The abrupt ending only added to my sense of dissatisfaction.

This is a book that tries to do many things—mystery, science, spirituality, metaphysics—but in my experience, it ended up doing none of them particularly well. I can see how it might appeal to readers who enjoy layered, genre-blending narratives, but it definitely wasn’t for me.