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Christie Bookshop #2
Last Word to the Wise
The Christie sisters and their bookshop cat, Agatha, flirt with cold-hearted crime when bookish matchmaking turns into a date with death.
Sisters Ellie and Meg Christie share a love of books, reading, and their new roles as co-caretakers of the Book Chalet, their family’s historic bookshop tucked midway up a scenic Colorado mountain. But romance? That’s another story. Ellie and Meg joke they’re in sisterly competition for worst relationships. So, when their cousin signs them up for her newest business endeavor, matchmaking based on bookish tastes, the sisters approach their blind double dates with foot-dragging dread.
While Ellie’s date meets her low expectations, Meg’s match, a book-loving romantic straight out of classic literature, charms her over a lovely dinner. The next morning, Meg is giddy with anticipation of a second date—until she’s stood up without a word. She fumes that she should have known better. However, her date had a good reason for ghosting her. He’s dead. Murdered, the police later confirm.
As the last known person to see the victim alive, Meg becomes a prime suspect in his death. She grimly quips that at least her dating record can’t get any worse. But it does. A thorn from Meg’s romantic past returns to little Last Word, espousing motives too sweet to believe.
To sleuth out the truth, the sisters must sift through secrets deeper than the February snowfall. Clues accumulate, but so do suspects, crimes, and betrayals. Ellie and Meg can’t afford to leave any page unturned. Romance may not be their forte, but hearts and lives are on the line, and the Christies know how to solve a mystery—especially when murder is involved.
Sisters Ellie and Meg Christie share a love of books, reading, and their new roles as co-caretakers of the Book Chalet, their family’s historic bookshop tucked midway up a scenic Colorado mountain. But romance? That’s another story. Ellie and Meg joke they’re in sisterly competition for worst relationships. So, when their cousin signs them up for her newest business endeavor, matchmaking based on bookish tastes, the sisters approach their blind double dates with foot-dragging dread.
While Ellie’s date meets her low expectations, Meg’s match, a book-loving romantic straight out of classic literature, charms her over a lovely dinner. The next morning, Meg is giddy with anticipation of a second date—until she’s stood up without a word. She fumes that she should have known better. However, her date had a good reason for ghosting her. He’s dead. Murdered, the police later confirm.
As the last known person to see the victim alive, Meg becomes a prime suspect in his death. She grimly quips that at least her dating record can’t get any worse. But it does. A thorn from Meg’s romantic past returns to little Last Word, espousing motives too sweet to believe.
To sleuth out the truth, the sisters must sift through secrets deeper than the February snowfall. Clues accumulate, but so do suspects, crimes, and betrayals. Ellie and Meg can’t afford to leave any page unturned. Romance may not be their forte, but hearts and lives are on the line, and the Christies know how to solve a mystery—especially when murder is involved.
336 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 3, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
November 2, 2023
Have you ever read or listened to a book that you know is objectively well-written, has solidly developed characters and a perfectly good plot and for whatever reason, you still can’t quite get into it?
It truly is through no fault of the book … it could’ve been the next War and Peace and I think I still would’ve come to the end and said, “Well, that was nice” and moved right along. Sometimes, it’s all about the timing.
Having said that, this second entry in Ann Claire’s charming Christie Bookshop series is going to appeal to those who are in the mood for a good cozy mystery with strong female leads - in this case sisters Ellie and Meg Christie (no relation to the real Agatha, though their cranky but lovable cat Agatha C. Christie is a fine substitute!)
This time around, Ellie and Meg’s pushy cousin Lorna has set the two up on dates through her latest business venture - a book lovers matchmaking service. Though hesitant, Meg ends up smitten with her bookish date, Mr. Joe Darcy, while unlucky-in-love Ellie politely listens to her date pompously ramble on about his adoration of author Samuel Beckett. Unfortunately, Meg’s love match is short-lived when Mr. Darcy is found murdered the next day, leaving her - the last person to see him alive - as the prime suspect.
As in last year’s Dead and Gondola, the Christie family: Ellie, Meg, Gran and Meg’s daughter Rosie, spring into action to investigate - this time to clear Meg’s name. Complicating things are some unexpected discoveries about the ‘good’ Mr. Darcy and the return of Meg’s ex and Rosie’s dad, Cameron. With a nice mix of new and old characters, there are plenty of potential culprits for those who love to armchair sleuth. My biggest issue with the story is simply that I couldn’t buy into the motivation for the murder. It was too big a stretch for me, but not so unbelievable that it would bother others.
This time around I read while listening on audio, which was nicely narrated by Morgan Dalla Betta. I think this is a series that would be equally enjoyable in either format.
It’s an admirable sophomore effort which, had I been in the right mood and not just read another cozy crime book, I’m confident I would’ve enjoyed more. It’s a fun series and one that I would still recommend for those who love a good cozy mystery. I know I’ll still be in line for the next!
★★★ ½
Thanks to Random House Publishing - Ballantine, NetGalley and author Ann Claire for this ARC to honestly review. It’s now available.
It truly is through no fault of the book … it could’ve been the next War and Peace and I think I still would’ve come to the end and said, “Well, that was nice” and moved right along. Sometimes, it’s all about the timing.
Having said that, this second entry in Ann Claire’s charming Christie Bookshop series is going to appeal to those who are in the mood for a good cozy mystery with strong female leads - in this case sisters Ellie and Meg Christie (no relation to the real Agatha, though their cranky but lovable cat Agatha C. Christie is a fine substitute!)
This time around, Ellie and Meg’s pushy cousin Lorna has set the two up on dates through her latest business venture - a book lovers matchmaking service. Though hesitant, Meg ends up smitten with her bookish date, Mr. Joe Darcy, while unlucky-in-love Ellie politely listens to her date pompously ramble on about his adoration of author Samuel Beckett. Unfortunately, Meg’s love match is short-lived when Mr. Darcy is found murdered the next day, leaving her - the last person to see him alive - as the prime suspect.
As in last year’s Dead and Gondola, the Christie family: Ellie, Meg, Gran and Meg’s daughter Rosie, spring into action to investigate - this time to clear Meg’s name. Complicating things are some unexpected discoveries about the ‘good’ Mr. Darcy and the return of Meg’s ex and Rosie’s dad, Cameron. With a nice mix of new and old characters, there are plenty of potential culprits for those who love to armchair sleuth. My biggest issue with the story is simply that I couldn’t buy into the motivation for the murder. It was too big a stretch for me, but not so unbelievable that it would bother others.
This time around I read while listening on audio, which was nicely narrated by Morgan Dalla Betta. I think this is a series that would be equally enjoyable in either format.
It’s an admirable sophomore effort which, had I been in the right mood and not just read another cozy crime book, I’m confident I would’ve enjoyed more. It’s a fun series and one that I would still recommend for those who love a good cozy mystery. I know I’ll still be in line for the next!
★★★ ½
Thanks to Random House Publishing - Ballantine, NetGalley and author Ann Claire for this ARC to honestly review. It’s now available.
December 5, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up for the sweet cat😽 and cozy winter vibes ☃️. The second installment of the Christie Bookshop series, "Last Word to the Wise" was just not as engaging & fun as the first one ("Dead & Gondola"). There were just way too many characters to track here and the mercenary cousin & her bookish dating agency gave me the "ick". The ski town's still cute though & kitty Agatha C. is on hand along with some very cool literary Easter eggs. But I am unsure if I'll do any more installments, will wait & see, I guess🤷🏻♀️
June 15, 2023
Ellie and Meg Christie, sisters and co-owners of the Book Chalet, have been winkled into testing out their cousin's new matchmaking service. Ellie's date is odious, but Meg hits it off with hers - until it seems like he's stood her up for brunch the next day. Except it turns out that Joe Darcy is actually dead, and Meg is at the top of the suspect list.
This is the second book in the Christie Bookshop Mystery series, a new cozy mystery series. I read the first book, Dead and Gondola, a while back and really enjoyed it. This one continues in the same lively, light-hearted theme, though I ended up liking it a little less than its prequel.
I firmly believe that the small-town setting can make or break a cozy mystery series. We run into so many of the same characters repeatedly that it can wear if you don't like them. Luckily, Last Word is a charmingly bookish place, and I continued to enjoy reading about its residents. The central Christie family is close-knit and funny, and I would love to visit their bookshop. I even enjoyed the obligatory budding romance with the local police officer Sam!
However, a couple of things kept me from enjoying this book as much as I did the first. I thought a couple of characters, namely Lorna and Dr. Waldon, tipped sadly over the line dividing amusingly eccentric and truly irritating, which was annoying because they do surface rather often throughout the story. I liked the twists and turns of the mystery and how we were led up to the conclusion, but after all was said and done I found the murderer's motive to be a really weak one - and their actions therefore maddeningly illogical.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
This is the second book in the Christie Bookshop Mystery series, a new cozy mystery series. I read the first book, Dead and Gondola, a while back and really enjoyed it. This one continues in the same lively, light-hearted theme, though I ended up liking it a little less than its prequel.
I firmly believe that the small-town setting can make or break a cozy mystery series. We run into so many of the same characters repeatedly that it can wear if you don't like them. Luckily, Last Word is a charmingly bookish place, and I continued to enjoy reading about its residents. The central Christie family is close-knit and funny, and I would love to visit their bookshop. I even enjoyed the obligatory budding romance with the local police officer Sam!
However, a couple of things kept me from enjoying this book as much as I did the first. I thought a couple of characters, namely Lorna and Dr. Waldon, tipped sadly over the line dividing amusingly eccentric and truly irritating, which was annoying because they do surface rather often throughout the story. I liked the twists and turns of the mystery and how we were led up to the conclusion, but after all was said and done I found the murderer's motive to be a really weak one - and their actions therefore maddeningly illogical.
Disclaimer: I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley. This is my honest and voluntary review.
November 20, 2023
I want thank NetGalley for the chance to read and review this title. I found this read fascinating. Couldn't stop reading, I read this in less than 24 hours. Very well written and the descriptions of what was going on were just right, informative but not giving anything away. Many twists and turns. 2 sisters are 5th generation bookshop owners. But it seems wherever these two go murder follows. One of the Sisters Meg is under suspicion for the death of her blind date shortly after he leaves her side. Several people known to the deceased are met with many bizarre accidents, and Meg with bad timing is apart of all of them making her look even more suspicious. Making you wonder if she is innocent or maybe not! The suprise at the end through me for a loop. Never expected it. Which rarely happens. Lots of humor from the girls cousin. Also the nosy town gossip who just always happens to be there. This book makes you think and feel in so many ways. A great read that I recommend.
May 13, 2023
I was granted a wish via NetGalley and was gifted the honor of reading Last Word to the Wise by Ann Claire.
Before I'd finished page one, I was already clicking my way to Amazon to purchase Dead and Gondola, the first book in the series.
Ellie and Meg Christie are sisters who are owners of The Book Chalet, a shop I'd love to visit.
Meg is a single mom, who's ex husband seeks out their child, and Meg becomes furious with him.
Ellie is mom to Agatha C. Christie, her cheeky four legged feline, who reminds me of our own cat.
Lorna, a cousin to the sisters, seems to believe she can make true love connections with a mutual love of books.
The only catch? She needs to use the sisters as guinea pigs, which sets the scene for murder, lies, cheating and deceit.
I was hooked on this book from the very beginning, snow storms, an evening walk to the library, a meet and greet with a deadly ending, and so much more fills the pages of this fantastic book.
Its not often that a book grabs my attention like this one did. The style of writing, the characters and their unique personalities, the humor, and the mystery itself sparked my interest from the beginning, and soon I was in Last Word, searching for clues while trying to put the story together.
I'm delighted to discover a new to me author, and I'm looking forward to reading the first book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish to read an advanced copy of Last Word to the Wise.
I look forward to recommending it to other readers.
Before I'd finished page one, I was already clicking my way to Amazon to purchase Dead and Gondola, the first book in the series.
Ellie and Meg Christie are sisters who are owners of The Book Chalet, a shop I'd love to visit.
Meg is a single mom, who's ex husband seeks out their child, and Meg becomes furious with him.
Ellie is mom to Agatha C. Christie, her cheeky four legged feline, who reminds me of our own cat.
Lorna, a cousin to the sisters, seems to believe she can make true love connections with a mutual love of books.
The only catch? She needs to use the sisters as guinea pigs, which sets the scene for murder, lies, cheating and deceit.
I was hooked on this book from the very beginning, snow storms, an evening walk to the library, a meet and greet with a deadly ending, and so much more fills the pages of this fantastic book.
Its not often that a book grabs my attention like this one did. The style of writing, the characters and their unique personalities, the humor, and the mystery itself sparked my interest from the beginning, and soon I was in Last Word, searching for clues while trying to put the story together.
I'm delighted to discover a new to me author, and I'm looking forward to reading the first book in the series.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish to read an advanced copy of Last Word to the Wise.
I look forward to recommending it to other readers.
October 11, 2023
What a gem.
Both books in this series have been such a delight to read, this one being the better of two good offerings.
These are terrifically fun, light mysteries with excellent setting and great characters. They are significantly better plotted than most in this subgenre, making for a better story than we usually get out of these types of cozy-adjacent mysteries.
I also enjoyed the subtle humor and clever details, particularly those pertaining to the quirky bookshop that the sisters run. If only it were a real place one could visit!
The author has done really well making these into a tribute to Agatha Christie without trying to copy Christie, and she’s also done an exceptional job of putting together a terrific sense of place in a modern setting-driven mystery, which is difficult to do successfully.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
Both books in this series have been such a delight to read, this one being the better of two good offerings.
These are terrifically fun, light mysteries with excellent setting and great characters. They are significantly better plotted than most in this subgenre, making for a better story than we usually get out of these types of cozy-adjacent mysteries.
I also enjoyed the subtle humor and clever details, particularly those pertaining to the quirky bookshop that the sisters run. If only it were a real place one could visit!
The author has done really well making these into a tribute to Agatha Christie without trying to copy Christie, and she’s also done an exceptional job of putting together a terrific sense of place in a modern setting-driven mystery, which is difficult to do successfully.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
May 10, 2023
To be honest I've only read a couple Agatha Christie mysteries. (I get that she's considered the classic mystery writer but I find her books dated with the stereotypes and casual racism.) But I picked up 1st Book in this Series - Dead and Gondola and loved it's Bookstore on a Mountain setting so I was excited to receive Advanced Readers Copy of Book 2 - Last Word to the Wise. Great cozy mystery full of book lovers, cats, and cocoa. So find a comfy chair and settle in.
November 16, 2023
This is book two on the Christie Bookshop series, and the Christie sisters are embroiled in another murder mystery. I have really enjoyed this series! It might just be my current favorite cozy mystery series.
The setting is phenomenal! I love how idyllic the little mountain town with a gondola to reach the upper hamlet is. The characters are great. Elle and Meg are both very likable, and Agatha, the cat, is the star of the book, in my opinion. I can't wait to solve more mysteries with the Christies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The setting is phenomenal! I love how idyllic the little mountain town with a gondola to reach the upper hamlet is. The characters are great. Elle and Meg are both very likable, and Agatha, the cat, is the star of the book, in my opinion. I can't wait to solve more mysteries with the Christies.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.
October 3, 2023
This book is the follow up to the fantastic debut in this series, Dead and Gondola which I loved! The setting is charming and I love the close relationship between Ellie Christie and her sister Meg, niece Rosie, and grandmother. The book also works well as a standalone, but I'm glad I read the first one to get even more of a sense of the closeness between Ellen, Meg, Rosie, and Gram.
Ellie and Meg run a bookstore and are huge fans of Agatha Christie, even though they aren't related to the Queen of Crime, and there are fun references to the life and works of Dame Agatha.
In this book, Ellie and Meg reluctantly agree to be set up on a double-blind date through their cousin's matchmaking service for booklovers. Meg thinks she may have found a love match, but when her date is murdered later that night, it seems Mr. Joe Darcy may have been keeping secrets. Ellie is on the case to find the killer and make sure her sister isn't blamed for the crime. It's clear a killer is on the loose and the Christie sisters keep getting involved.
I enjoyed the role Detective Sam Ibarra played in the book, especially when he and Ellie compared notes on the case, but I have to admit a couple of the side characters that were prominent in the book (Lorna, Waldon, and Cameron) were hard to take. I still enjoyed the book overall and think it's another fun book in this series. I'm looking forward to the next one!
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Random House Publishing/Ballantine at no cost. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
Ellie and Meg run a bookstore and are huge fans of Agatha Christie, even though they aren't related to the Queen of Crime, and there are fun references to the life and works of Dame Agatha.
In this book, Ellie and Meg reluctantly agree to be set up on a double-blind date through their cousin's matchmaking service for booklovers. Meg thinks she may have found a love match, but when her date is murdered later that night, it seems Mr. Joe Darcy may have been keeping secrets. Ellie is on the case to find the killer and make sure her sister isn't blamed for the crime. It's clear a killer is on the loose and the Christie sisters keep getting involved.
I enjoyed the role Detective Sam Ibarra played in the book, especially when he and Ellie compared notes on the case, but I have to admit a couple of the side characters that were prominent in the book (Lorna, Waldon, and Cameron) were hard to take. I still enjoyed the book overall and think it's another fun book in this series. I'm looking forward to the next one!
I received an advance copy of this ebook from NetGalley and Random House Publishing/Ballantine at no cost. My review is voluntary and unbiased.
November 7, 2023
This was definitely more my speed than the last one. The mystery was more developed, I thought, and the characters more fleshed out. I could connect more with them this time around, although still not an Agatha Christie fan and the books are centered around her works. The story itself was easy to follow and plenty of clues to keep you guessing. The ending didn’t make sense to me but this was a quick, fun read.
September 15, 2023
****Publishing October 3, 2023****
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Last Word to the Wise is the second in the series, but could easily be read as a stand alone.
Ellie and Meg are sisters who run their family bookstore. When their cousin, Lorna, opens a match-making business called Bibliophiles Find Love, she wanted Ellie and Meg to be the first clients to test out her match-making skills before she officially opened on Valentine’s Day. With both their lack of success in dating, will Lorna find them “Mr Perfect”. What could possibly go wrong?
Ellie and Meg always end up in the wrong place at the wrong time. It all started with Lorna’s match-making business ending up with a dead client, Joe, Meg’s date.
Ellie and Meg go to Joe’s house to confront him about why he stood Meg up. When they arrive, they find that he is dead, so they are questioned by the police. With being Agatha Christie and Miss Marple fans, its hard for Ellie and Meg not to do their own investigation. Will they be able to solve this murder before the police? Will Meg become a suspect? What will become of Lorna’s business?
I loved all the bookish references, including Agatha Christie and Miss Marple. The characters, storyline, and unexpected twists and turns in this book are what makes this book so entertaining. A fun and entertaining read that requires a hot cup of tea as you read it! If you love cozy mysteries, then this book and series is for you!
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine (Bantam), I was provided an ARC of Last Word to the Wise by Ann Claire via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Last Word to the Wise is the second in the series, but could easily be read as a stand alone.
Ellie and Meg are sisters who run their family bookstore. When their cousin, Lorna, opens a match-making business called Bibliophiles Find Love, she wanted Ellie and Meg to be the first clients to test out her match-making skills before she officially opened on Valentine’s Day. With both their lack of success in dating, will Lorna find them “Mr Perfect”. What could possibly go wrong?
Ellie and Meg always end up in the wrong place at the wrong time. It all started with Lorna’s match-making business ending up with a dead client, Joe, Meg’s date.
Ellie and Meg go to Joe’s house to confront him about why he stood Meg up. When they arrive, they find that he is dead, so they are questioned by the police. With being Agatha Christie and Miss Marple fans, its hard for Ellie and Meg not to do their own investigation. Will they be able to solve this murder before the police? Will Meg become a suspect? What will become of Lorna’s business?
I loved all the bookish references, including Agatha Christie and Miss Marple. The characters, storyline, and unexpected twists and turns in this book are what makes this book so entertaining. A fun and entertaining read that requires a hot cup of tea as you read it! If you love cozy mysteries, then this book and series is for you!
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine (Bantam), I was provided an ARC of Last Word to the Wise by Ann Claire via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 23, 2023
4.5 Stars
This was a fun little cozy mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed how "bookish" the main characters and seemingly the whole town were. Loved both sisters, the cat Agatha C. Christie (cute little bookish name for a cat). I plan to read the previous book in this series. I would read more by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish for this ARC.
Review posted on Instagram today, and will post to Amazon on release day!
This was a fun little cozy mystery. I thoroughly enjoyed how "bookish" the main characters and seemingly the whole town were. Loved both sisters, the cat Agatha C. Christie (cute little bookish name for a cat). I plan to read the previous book in this series. I would read more by this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for granting my wish for this ARC.
Review posted on Instagram today, and will post to Amazon on release day!
November 22, 2023
Grab your cup of hot chocolate, and plop one jumbo marshmallow for Meg and one for Ellie because these sisters are back for another chilly mystery! I thought this was just as fun as Dead and Gondala. My favorite thing Ann Claire does is how she mentions other mysteries in her books and gives such a sweet head nod to Agatha Christie herself. I feel like I learn more about her with each book I read. This started off with a date in the library, and ends in such a surprising way that I clapped audibly when the mystery was solved. I can’t wait to read her next one, and the cover of this fits the book perfectly. A soft snowflake of a read!
January 8, 2024
The little tourist town of Last Word is lucky to have a fifth generation local bookstore, now run by sisters Ellie and Meg Christie, who jokingly compete over who has had the worst date. Meg was left at the altar, so she's probably ahead. Their cousin Lorna scoops them up for the bibliophile matchmaking service she's started with a local librarian, and while Ellie's date is a pedantic professor, Meg's seems to be a dream--until he's murdered and Meg is the leading suspect. Ellie starts to fall for the handsome deputy sheriff who's investigating, but can she trust him or anybody else to protect Meg's interests?
December 12, 2023
I was expecting a little more romance (it really just has mild flirting lol) but I enjoyed the mystery and cozy bookstore vibes, and of course Agatha Cat Christie.
Shelved as '2023'
June 6, 2024📱 Thank you to NetGalley and Bantam
January 25, 2024
Just finished this one, it was the perfect companion on this (literally) freezing, snowy day!
This is the second in the series. I love the setting - a cozy book chalet run by the Christie sisters in a small Colorado mountain town. This cozy series is perfect for mystery lovers - plenty of Agatha Christie references as Ellie Christie investigates to solve another murder in her small town.
Don’t miss this one if you like cozy mysteries, small town murder, strong female leads, amateur sleuths, and especially a fun bookstore setting complete with a bookstore cat!
This is the second in the series. I love the setting - a cozy book chalet run by the Christie sisters in a small Colorado mountain town. This cozy series is perfect for mystery lovers - plenty of Agatha Christie references as Ellie Christie investigates to solve another murder in her small town.
Don’t miss this one if you like cozy mysteries, small town murder, strong female leads, amateur sleuths, and especially a fun bookstore setting complete with a bookstore cat!
July 18, 2023
This is a wintery, bookish cozy mystery, the second in the Christie Bookshop series. Ellie and Meg Christie, are sisters and co-owners of their family’s bookshop, The Book Chalet, located in a quaint, small, mountainside town in Colorado.
The sisters joke about their terrible dating luck so when a cousin starts a literary dating service, they both join. Ellie’s date is as awful as she expected but surprisingly, Meg hits it off with her date. Unfortunately, when the too-good-to-be-true date turns up murdered, Meg is a suspect. It’s up to her and Ellie to find the real killer.
This contemporary cozy has such a fantastic sense of place - the town and the bookshop- I want to visit! I envy Ellie’s job running the bookshop, caring for the shop’s cat, Agatha C. Christie, and living in an apartment above the shop - perfect when you need a late-night book.
Even though this is book 2, and I haven’t read book 1 yet, I had no trouble following the story or characters. I loved Meg and Ellie’s Gram - her spunkiness and those delicious-sounding baked goods!
This is a love letter to Agatha Christie and her mysteries so definitely read if you’re a fan of fair play, intricately plotted cozies full of likable characters with richly detailed writing.
The sisters joke about their terrible dating luck so when a cousin starts a literary dating service, they both join. Ellie’s date is as awful as she expected but surprisingly, Meg hits it off with her date. Unfortunately, when the too-good-to-be-true date turns up murdered, Meg is a suspect. It’s up to her and Ellie to find the real killer.
This contemporary cozy has such a fantastic sense of place - the town and the bookshop- I want to visit! I envy Ellie’s job running the bookshop, caring for the shop’s cat, Agatha C. Christie, and living in an apartment above the shop - perfect when you need a late-night book.
Even though this is book 2, and I haven’t read book 1 yet, I had no trouble following the story or characters. I loved Meg and Ellie’s Gram - her spunkiness and those delicious-sounding baked goods!
This is a love letter to Agatha Christie and her mysteries so definitely read if you’re a fan of fair play, intricately plotted cozies full of likable characters with richly detailed writing.
September 3, 2023
Another fun cozy mystery, following the Christie booksellers as they find themselves in the middle of another murder investigation.
I loved seeing Ellie and Meg insert themselves into the mystery and work with the police to put together the clues.
This was cozy and full of bookish fun. Definitely recommend to fans of the genre.
I loved seeing Ellie and Meg insert themselves into the mystery and work with the police to put together the clues.
This was cozy and full of bookish fun. Definitely recommend to fans of the genre.
October 3, 2023
I liked the first one when I read it and was excited to be approved to read this second book. I really enjoy all the characters in it and the premise of location. It’s awesome for a cozy mystery and there is a cat. I liked the little bit of romance in this book and I hope it continues to bloom. Up until the ending, I thought the mystery was interesting but when the killer was reveled the reason why seemed lacking to me. I rated this book a 3.5. I do not like Agatha Christie, I haven’t read her book so I can’t speak to anything about references to her other than what is very obvious. Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC In exchange for my honest opinion.
May 24, 2024
In the second bookshop mystery, we see sisters and store owners, Ellie and Meg, embroiled in another murder. Their cousin insists on setting them up with blind dates based on their reading preferences, and Meg is quickly smitten with her suitor, Joe. But when he shows up dead--murdered--the next day, and Meg was seemingly the last person to see him alive, she becomes the prime suspect. When Joe's turns out to not be who he presented himself as, and other folks involved in the matchmaking scheme are attacked, the spotlight on Meg grows larger--complicated even more by the unwanted return of her ex.
As with the first book in this series, I listened to it on audio and was pleased by the excellent narration; I would certainly recommend that format. Unlike the first book, however, I could spot the killer from a mile away. The foreshadowing was too much, and it made me doubt our central sleuth Ellie's mystery solving prowess. I was also baffled by the omission of a central character from the first book (a former actress and book influencer). Sent to Mandyville? However, I am ecstatic that we have introduced a viable love interest for Ellie, as I'm a romance reader at heart. I hope we get more books in this series and see what blossoms between the pair! Ultimately, I really enjoyed reading this one for the fun little clues and twists, even if I could spot the ending.
Thanks to PRHA for my ALC of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars - 8/10
As with the first book in this series, I listened to it on audio and was pleased by the excellent narration; I would certainly recommend that format. Unlike the first book, however, I could spot the killer from a mile away. The foreshadowing was too much, and it made me doubt our central sleuth Ellie's mystery solving prowess. I was also baffled by the omission of a central character from the first book (a former actress and book influencer). Sent to Mandyville? However, I am ecstatic that we have introduced a viable love interest for Ellie, as I'm a romance reader at heart. I hope we get more books in this series and see what blossoms between the pair! Ultimately, I really enjoyed reading this one for the fun little clues and twists, even if I could spot the ending.
Thanks to PRHA for my ALC of this book! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars - 8/10
November 7, 2023
The Christies return with a new mystery. In this installment, the sisters are trying their best to avoid their cousin Lorna’s new matchmaking business, and Meg is worried about something going on with her daughter. Unfortunately, Lorna’s new business soon becomes associated with murder and accidents, with one of the Christie sisters as the prime suspect. Luckily, this provides Ellie with an excuse to spend more time with sexy detective Ibarra. Unluckily for her, another attack happens much closer to home. I wasn’t sure they were ever going to solve this mystery!
Like the first, parts of this book felt a little too “cozy” for me at times. I love the town of Last Word, and many inhabitants return in this sequel. I appreciate the lack of recap of events from the first book–Last Word to the Wise picks right up with a new story. Also, reading the first book isn’t necessary to enjoy this one.
I’m not sure I completely buy into the ending. Or really any of it, actually, but it was still a welcome break from some of the darker books I’ve been reading lately. Thank you to Random House for the ARC.
Like the first, parts of this book felt a little too “cozy” for me at times. I love the town of Last Word, and many inhabitants return in this sequel. I appreciate the lack of recap of events from the first book–Last Word to the Wise picks right up with a new story. Also, reading the first book isn’t necessary to enjoy this one.
I’m not sure I completely buy into the ending. Or really any of it, actually, but it was still a welcome break from some of the darker books I’ve been reading lately. Thank you to Random House for the ARC.
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March 19, 2024Do you love cozy mysteries?
Do you love accidental sleuths?
Do you love bookshops?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you definitely need to put this series on your radar!
Things I love about these books:
❄️ The setting! Think small, snowy touristy town. It’s got all the great elements of the small town, everyone knows everyone vibe, as well as tourists mixing themselves into the flow.
👪 Family! This is so deeply rooted into the series with the main cast being two sisters, their grandmother, and the daughter of one of the sisters. The dynamic between them all is fantastic and very realistic.
🐈 The cat! Named after Agatha Christie. Need I say more?
I love cozy mysteries for a palate cleanser between darker reads and this book absolutely checked that box. I can’t wait for the next book to be announced!
Do you love accidental sleuths?
Do you love bookshops?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, then you definitely need to put this series on your radar!
Things I love about these books:
❄️ The setting! Think small, snowy touristy town. It’s got all the great elements of the small town, everyone knows everyone vibe, as well as tourists mixing themselves into the flow.
👪 Family! This is so deeply rooted into the series with the main cast being two sisters, their grandmother, and the daughter of one of the sisters. The dynamic between them all is fantastic and very realistic.
🐈 The cat! Named after Agatha Christie. Need I say more?
I love cozy mysteries for a palate cleanser between darker reads and this book absolutely checked that box. I can’t wait for the next book to be announced!
July 19, 2024
Book Chalet co-owner Ellie Christie does not want to go on a blind date, but her cousin Lorna is starting a dating ap, Bibliophiles Love Books, so Ellie and her sister Meg meet their blind dates at the library for a catered meal to help Lorna out. Meg immediately hits it off with handsome Joe Darcy, but Ellie is stuck with Beckett fan, Dr. Waldon O'Grady. She considers Meg the lucky one until Joe Darcy turns up dead that night with Meg as one of the suspects. Detective Sam Ibarra and Police Chief Sunni warn Ellie and Meg to not get involved. However, the sisters cannot help finding another victim.
This is another light-hearted cozy in the Christie Bookshop series. The relationships are delightful, and the characters unique. It is a fun read as Ellie and Meg race to prove Meg's innocence. I appreciate the clean language.
This is another light-hearted cozy in the Christie Bookshop series. The relationships are delightful, and the characters unique. It is a fun read as Ellie and Meg race to prove Meg's innocence. I appreciate the clean language.
October 9, 2023
A wonderful second installment in this cozy mystery series! Ellie and Meg feel obligated to try their cousin’s new venture in literary matchmaking. But when Meg’s date ends up dead the morning after her date she is immediately under suspicion. Ellie is determined to clear her sister’s name and solve the case. With more dates to get through and the arrival of Meg’s ex in town things get chaotic. All Ellie can do is stand by her sister’s side and find the murderer.
With the cozy small town setting, a loving and supportive family and a little romance this is the perfect cozy mystery you’ve been looking for!
With the cozy small town setting, a loving and supportive family and a little romance this is the perfect cozy mystery you’ve been looking for!
November 25, 2023
This is such a fun, fluffy, cozy. I enjoyed it as much as the first. I have to say, I liked how invested Ellie became in solving the crime and how Agatha kept popping up in random places as cats do just being cute. The only character that bothered me a little was Lorna as she kept trying to strong-arm people into being a part of her dating service. I am hoping that as the series continues, she mellows a bit. Very enjoyable, light, and fun. Looking forward to the next installment!
August 1, 2023
Christie Bookshop #2 was even better than the first! I love the cozy murder mystery that leaves you wondering whodunnit.
I honestly can say I did not see the murder or motive coming, brava!! I thought I knew who it was and was shocked to find out mannn was I wrong.
Would 100% recommend to others. Please read and enjoy books one and two!!
I honestly can say I did not see the murder or motive coming, brava!! I thought I knew who it was and was shocked to find out mannn was I wrong.
Would 100% recommend to others. Please read and enjoy books one and two!!
August 1, 2023
Christie Bookshop #2 was even better than the first! I love the cozy murder mystery that leaves you wondering whodunnit.
I honestly can say I did not see the murder or motive coming, brava!! I thought I knew who it was and was shocked to find out mannn was I wrong.
Would 100% recommend to others. Please read and enjoy books one and two!!
I honestly can say I did not see the murder or motive coming, brava!! I thought I knew who it was and was shocked to find out mannn was I wrong.
Would 100% recommend to others. Please read and enjoy books one and two!!
April 10, 2024
I love this series so much! An abundance of atmospheric coziness and bookish sleuthing. I think I like sequels a little better because you’re familiar with the characters already and I love all these characters. I was so happy for Ellie at the end of this book too, especially after the events of the last book. And… I truly, truly hope Chief Sunnie saw that moose!!
April 24, 2024
I wanted to like this book a lot, but the first third was a slog. Lorna is a pain, and cousin or not, I wish the sisters would learn to tell her a firm "NO!" The actual mystery never grabbed me. I don't know the characters well enough for that to carry the story. It got better as it went on, just not enough to make me want to read a third one.
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