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Shell House Detectives #3
The Rockpool Murder
A stunning Cornish house, a shocking death—can The Shell House Detectives catch a killer hiding in plain sight?
Music legend Baz Carson is ready to welcome his closest friends and family to celebrate his seventieth birthday at Rockpool House, his stunning mansion set high on the cliffs on the Cornish coast. But the festivities come to an abrupt end when Baz is found dead, floating fully clothed in his infinity pool.
Tallulah, a boho-chic Californian and Baz’s first love, is convinced that his death wasn’t an accident. He’s just published his tell-all memoir, and the list of those who might wish him harm is long. But with just eight guests at Baz’s luxury, gated home, who could have killed him—and why?
Tallulah hires Ally Bright and ex-cop Jayden Weston to uncover the truth. It’s a case that becomes a race against time, and one that will push Ally and Jayden to their limits as they draw ever closer to a killer. A killer who’s hiding in plain sight and feels they have nothing to lose…
Music legend Baz Carson is ready to welcome his closest friends and family to celebrate his seventieth birthday at Rockpool House, his stunning mansion set high on the cliffs on the Cornish coast. But the festivities come to an abrupt end when Baz is found dead, floating fully clothed in his infinity pool.
Tallulah, a boho-chic Californian and Baz’s first love, is convinced that his death wasn’t an accident. He’s just published his tell-all memoir, and the list of those who might wish him harm is long. But with just eight guests at Baz’s luxury, gated home, who could have killed him—and why?
Tallulah hires Ally Bright and ex-cop Jayden Weston to uncover the truth. It’s a case that becomes a race against time, and one that will push Ally and Jayden to their limits as they draw ever closer to a killer. A killer who’s hiding in plain sight and feels they have nothing to lose…
380 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 23, 2024
876 people are currently reading
2875 people want to read
About the author
Emylia Hall
18 books233 followersEmylia Hall lives with her husband and son in Bristol, where she writes from a hut in the garden and dreams of the sea. THE SHELL HOUSE DETECTIVES is her first crime novel and is inspired by her love of Cornwall’s wild landscape. Emylia has published four previous novels, including Richard and Judy Book Club pick THE BOOK OF SUMMERS and THE THOUSAND LIGHTS HOTEL. Her work has been translated into ten languages and broadcast on BBC Radio 6 Music. She is the founder of Mothership Writers and is a writing coach at The Novelry.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 112 reviews
March 9, 2024
The third in the Shell House Detective series. I have read them all.
The Shell House Detectives are Ally, an older woman and an artist, and Jayden, a younger man with a wife and a small child. Jayden was a policeman until he was involved in a serious incident and decided to leave the force. Now he and his wife manage a camping ground on the beautiful Cornish coast. Ally and Jayden have a beautiful friendship which reminds me very much of Vera and Joe in Ann Cleeves' well known series.
There is a suspicious drowning followed by a murder and Ally and Jayden become involved in the investigations. The mystery is very complicated and it is hard to predict the guilty party! The ending is sweet when events push Ally and Gus towards each other. I hope this may be developed in future books. Altogether an enjoyable read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
The Shell House Detectives are Ally, an older woman and an artist, and Jayden, a younger man with a wife and a small child. Jayden was a policeman until he was involved in a serious incident and decided to leave the force. Now he and his wife manage a camping ground on the beautiful Cornish coast. Ally and Jayden have a beautiful friendship which reminds me very much of Vera and Joe in Ann Cleeves' well known series.
There is a suspicious drowning followed by a murder and Ally and Jayden become involved in the investigations. The mystery is very complicated and it is hard to predict the guilty party! The ending is sweet when events push Ally and Gus towards each other. I hope this may be developed in future books. Altogether an enjoyable read.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 17, 2024
The Rockpool Murder is the 3rd in the Shell House Detective series. I have read this series from the first book. Ally Bright is the main character. She is an artist as well as a partner in the Shell House Detectives with Jayden, a retired policeman. They live in the coastal town of Porthpella. She is having a one woman show of her artwork at the Bluebird Cafe owned by good friend, Sunita. Her friend and author, Gus Munro lives down the way.
Baz Carson is the new owner of the house, Rockpool. He was the lead singer of the band, The Nick. He has also written a book about his life which just came out. He has invited his band members, Davey Hart and Ruper Frost, ex-wife, Nicole Carson and his children Ruby Edwards and Jet Carson and his grand-daughter, Imogen Edwards to celebrate his 70th birthday. Also invited is his friend and ex girlfriend, Tallulalh Pearce and Felix Boyd a music journalist who is the son of his true love, Connie who died 5 years ago.
Saffron who owns Hang 10 Cafe has been hired to prepare the meals and serve. She is to live at the house for the weekend. While preparing the food she hears a scream from Imogen and runs to find, Baz floating face down in the pool. Saffron jumps in the pool to save him but he is already dead. The police are called. Tim Mullins is the first police officer to arrive with his boss, DS Skinner.
There is so much going on in this book to put on paper so I will leave it to the reader to enjoy to the exciting and surprising ending.
I really enjoy this series and look forward to seeing what the next adventure of the Shell House Detective Agency. Will Gus stay in Porthpella and buy the house he is renting, Will Ally's daughter, Evie and her grandsons who have come for a surprise visit without her husband be staying,
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC.
Baz Carson is the new owner of the house, Rockpool. He was the lead singer of the band, The Nick. He has also written a book about his life which just came out. He has invited his band members, Davey Hart and Ruper Frost, ex-wife, Nicole Carson and his children Ruby Edwards and Jet Carson and his grand-daughter, Imogen Edwards to celebrate his 70th birthday. Also invited is his friend and ex girlfriend, Tallulalh Pearce and Felix Boyd a music journalist who is the son of his true love, Connie who died 5 years ago.
Saffron who owns Hang 10 Cafe has been hired to prepare the meals and serve. She is to live at the house for the weekend. While preparing the food she hears a scream from Imogen and runs to find, Baz floating face down in the pool. Saffron jumps in the pool to save him but he is already dead. The police are called. Tim Mullins is the first police officer to arrive with his boss, DS Skinner.
There is so much going on in this book to put on paper so I will leave it to the reader to enjoy to the exciting and surprising ending.
I really enjoy this series and look forward to seeing what the next adventure of the Shell House Detective Agency. Will Gus stay in Porthpella and buy the house he is renting, Will Ally's daughter, Evie and her grandsons who have come for a surprise visit without her husband be staying,
Thank you NetGalley and Thomas & Mercer for this ARC.
November 4, 2024
The third in The Shellhouse Detectives series, The Rockpool Murder is a great cozy mystery.
All the main cast from the previous books have been caught up in another beachside mystery and at this point I’m very attached to all of them, especially Mullins who has shown a lot of emotional development since the beginning of the series.
The setting of a rockstars mansion on the hills was fab, the plot twists were great, beautifully written as always.
All the main cast from the previous books have been caught up in another beachside mystery and at this point I’m very attached to all of them, especially Mullins who has shown a lot of emotional development since the beginning of the series.
The setting of a rockstars mansion on the hills was fab, the plot twists were great, beautifully written as always.
March 4, 2024
Hate born out of love is the strongest kind
This cozy beach detective mystery was cute. A very tasteful one too. I find myself coming back to cozy books to enjoy a fresh clean slate of what I usually read. I really enjoyed this one.
RockPool Murder 3 is about relationships, friendships, murder, justice system, and even cute pastries and desserts.
The twists in this book were good. I was shocked that my “Who Done It?” Was actually wrong. That one I was shocked by. Overall, a cute read and definitely will be coming back to this author for more cozy beach vibes with a murder mystery twist.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas &Mercer for this ARC!
This cozy beach detective mystery was cute. A very tasteful one too. I find myself coming back to cozy books to enjoy a fresh clean slate of what I usually read. I really enjoyed this one.
RockPool Murder 3 is about relationships, friendships, murder, justice system, and even cute pastries and desserts.
The twists in this book were good. I was shocked that my “Who Done It?” Was actually wrong. That one I was shocked by. Overall, a cute read and definitely will be coming back to this author for more cozy beach vibes with a murder mystery twist.
Thank you Netgalley and Thomas &Mercer for this ARC!
November 8, 2024
This is the second series [for me] this year that has changed narrators mid-series and while it has sort of worked itself out for with the other series, I am not sure that will happen here, and while I know that there is nothing to be done about it, I am not sure I will be able to continue past the next book [which I have for NG]. I can only hope that she settles in to the narration and that it smooths out for me.
While I really enjoyed this read and ALL of the crazy mysteries that are happening simultaneously [HOLY CANNOLI this was crazy at points], all the side characters that were truly awful human beings [I truly hope I never meet anyone like Jett ever], yet were exactly what you'd expect in a storyline like this, and the excellent reveals [] that were neither rushed NOR disappointing, my total enjoyment of this book was very much hampered by the unwieldy narration. I am really beyond frustrated.
While I really enjoyed this read and ALL of the crazy mysteries that are happening simultaneously [HOLY CANNOLI this was crazy at points], all the side characters that were truly awful human beings [I truly hope I never meet anyone like Jett ever], yet were exactly what you'd expect in a storyline like this, and the excellent reveals [] that were neither rushed NOR disappointing, my total enjoyment of this book was very much hampered by the unwieldy narration. I am really beyond frustrated.
February 29, 2024
A music industry celebrity hosts a house party for his 70th birthday but winds up dead in the pool. Permanent residents of the area include a burned-out former PC turned campsite manager and the widow of a former detective now an eco-artist. Together, they have become the Shell House Detectives, and they are expected to solve the crime before the next murder occurs. I enjoyed the first two and this has no disappointments.
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. Thank you!
Available 19 Mar 2024 #ShellHouseDetectivesBk3
I requested and received a free temporary EARC from Thomas & Mercer via NetGalley. Thank you!
Available 19 Mar 2024 #ShellHouseDetectivesBk3
March 21, 2024
Summer is on the horizon in Cornwall, skies are clear, and the temperatures are rising. Above the village of Porthpella at Rockpool, a strikingly white clifftop mansion, Baz Carson, is waiting for his guests to arrive and his birthday celebrations to begin. The ageing rock star has hired local chef Saffron to cater the whole weekend, but things are about to take an unexpected and tragic turn. Meanwhile, Ally Bright, one half of the Shell House Detectives, is looking forward with amazement, to her first solo art exhibition but when a body is found she and her partner Jayden Weston, are hired to investigate
With tension running high at Rockpool after the publication of Baz’s tell all memoirs Ally and Jayden find themselves with a shortlist of suspects all of whom have compelling reasons to have had a hand in the suspicious death. When a second body is also found, it is clear that someone will stop at nothing to remain free. As things work towards a climax of accusations and blame, Ally and Jayden's involvement suddenly becomes dangerously personal. Can they discover who is responsible before the cost becomes more than they can bear?
Book three in Emylia Hall's wonderful series was not for the fainthearted! With momentous decisions coming to light throughout this was a wonderful reading experience from start to finish. Ally and Jayden are the main protagonists, but the cast of other regulars all have potentially life changing parts to play, and it all works brilliantly. By the last few chapters, I was reading with my heart in my mouth, and I hope book four won't be long in coming as I really need to know what happens next!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Thomas and Mercer, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a brilliant read and one I highly recommend.
With tension running high at Rockpool after the publication of Baz’s tell all memoirs Ally and Jayden find themselves with a shortlist of suspects all of whom have compelling reasons to have had a hand in the suspicious death. When a second body is also found, it is clear that someone will stop at nothing to remain free. As things work towards a climax of accusations and blame, Ally and Jayden's involvement suddenly becomes dangerously personal. Can they discover who is responsible before the cost becomes more than they can bear?
Book three in Emylia Hall's wonderful series was not for the fainthearted! With momentous decisions coming to light throughout this was a wonderful reading experience from start to finish. Ally and Jayden are the main protagonists, but the cast of other regulars all have potentially life changing parts to play, and it all works brilliantly. By the last few chapters, I was reading with my heart in my mouth, and I hope book four won't be long in coming as I really need to know what happens next!
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers, Thomas and Mercer, but the opinions expressed are my own. This is a brilliant read and one I highly recommend.
March 9, 2024
Much like book two in this series, this book injects multiple POVs into the book that removed me fro the two protagonists, Jayden and Ally. They are the Shell House Detectives, so why is so much of this book not focused on them? Especially when the book is focusing on the mystery. It's an unusual decision in the book.
It felt like when Ally or Jayden are the focus, it's more on the cosy side instead of the mystery. I do enjoy the cosy side of cosy mysteries. I would have to, or I wouldn't enjoy so many of the sub-genre. But, I need my protagonists to be prominent in the mystery side and the cosy side of things.
The mystery in this book is well done, and that's what makes this so frustrating for me. It's a good mystery, but I needed more from the protagonists in actively investigating the crime. There is a moment when they hatch a plan, but that felt whole section felt odd to me and almost unplanned, as if it were written on a whim. It wasn't investigating a crime. I don't know what it was, but it felt more rambling than anything else.
I adore so many of the characters in this series, and I want to love each book in this series. There are some great moments in this book for Ally on the cosy side of things. Some realisations as well, which makes you wonder what book four will bring. And I will read book four because I want to know. But, I hope the POV focuses more and Ally and Jayden in the next book.
It felt like when Ally or Jayden are the focus, it's more on the cosy side instead of the mystery. I do enjoy the cosy side of cosy mysteries. I would have to, or I wouldn't enjoy so many of the sub-genre. But, I need my protagonists to be prominent in the mystery side and the cosy side of things.
The mystery in this book is well done, and that's what makes this so frustrating for me. It's a good mystery, but I needed more from the protagonists in actively investigating the crime. There is a moment when they hatch a plan, but that felt whole section felt odd to me and almost unplanned, as if it were written on a whim. It wasn't investigating a crime. I don't know what it was, but it felt more rambling than anything else.
I adore so many of the characters in this series, and I want to love each book in this series. There are some great moments in this book for Ally on the cosy side of things. Some realisations as well, which makes you wonder what book four will bring. And I will read book four because I want to know. But, I hope the POV focuses more and Ally and Jayden in the next book.
April 10, 2024
I won this book in a Goodreads Giveaway for my honest review. I loved this book. The amateur detectives Jayden and Ally figured out who-dun-it once again this amazing book with its cast of characters. Jayden was a highly trained police officer in leeds so his not so amateur though. Ally is an artist in her golden years, known for watching everyone on the beach and having a good read on people. In this 3rd installment of the Shellhouse Detectives a rich rock star buys the Rockpool Mansion that everyone in town is in awe of. Yes the house and the Rockstar. The Rockstar Baz is about to turn 70 and is throwing himself an intimate birthday bash with close friends and family. No sooner than everyone arrives and Baz is found dead in his infinity pool before everyone even puts their things away. But the weird thing is Baz's manager Rupert is found dead the very next day with stab marks through his chest and blood everywhere. With a list of 6 suspects and no real leads this one looks like it's gonna be a rough one. As always with a little digging things start to fall into place. This book is very well written, keeps you entertained and on the edge of your seat. You will not be disappointed. Give it a read.
March 21, 2024
Baz Carson, a music legend, purchased Rockpool House, the mansion atop a cliff on the Cornish coast, and with a curated guest list, he's ready to celebrate his 70th birthday and the publication of his memoir. The guest list will be the same select few of family and friends given space in his memoir. The only outsider who will stay at the mansion with Baz and the guests for the weekend is Saffron, owner of Porthpella's Hang Ten coffee shop, who will be the chef preparing all the meals. The weekend will be unforgettable.
Reminiscent of classic mysteries using the setting of locked locations as the setting that ends in a murder investigation, this is a contemporary delight. The locked location is the luxury mansion behind electric gates with a limited number of guests at the time of the crime.
The pairing of Ally Bright and Jayden Weston has added diversity of ages, life experiences, and investigation approaches. I also enjoy the secondary characters that add dimensions to life in Porthpella and broaden the scope of possibilities in the lives of Ally and Jayden.
I look forward to the continuation of the series.
Reviewer's Note: Each novel may be read as a stand-alone. Still, I recommend reading the books in the series in order to fully appreciate the characters as they evolve in life's decisions and adventures.
Thank you to Emylia Hall, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.
Reminiscent of classic mysteries using the setting of locked locations as the setting that ends in a murder investigation, this is a contemporary delight. The locked location is the luxury mansion behind electric gates with a limited number of guests at the time of the crime.
The pairing of Ally Bright and Jayden Weston has added diversity of ages, life experiences, and investigation approaches. I also enjoy the secondary characters that add dimensions to life in Porthpella and broaden the scope of possibilities in the lives of Ally and Jayden.
I look forward to the continuation of the series.
Reviewer's Note: Each novel may be read as a stand-alone. Still, I recommend reading the books in the series in order to fully appreciate the characters as they evolve in life's decisions and adventures.
Thank you to Emylia Hall, Thomas & Mercer, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book.
February 25, 2024
"'It is a good idea, isn't it? This party? I won't live to regret it?'
'A party is always a good idea.'
But as the buzzer sounds again - impatiently and raucously - and Baz heads out of the kitchen, Saffron feels a sudden sense of foreboding. It comes out of nowhere, as quick and powerful as a rip current. 'A party is always a good idea,' she repeats to herself. Only this time with less conviction."
Book three of The Shell House Detectives, cosy crime series, see amateur detectives Ally and Jayden investigating the death of a famous, aging rocker, who's retired to Rockpool House in Cornwall.
I enjoyed being back in Porthpella, enjoyed reading what happens next and may be in the future for friends Ally, her dog Fox, Jayden (a former police officer), Saffron and Gus. A locked room mystery in a large, cliffside mansion during a hot summer, made for a dramatic setting and introduced new characters - the dislikeable, greedy family and friends of musician and songwriter, Baz Carson, celebrating his 70th Birthday. This made for a pool of suspects, who all had motives that the police, including Sergeant Mullins as usual, are investigating. There are twists and turn as the reader learns more about the characters and suspects are ruled in and out. An engaging mystery, a gorgeous setting and great characters make this a series to get stuck into.
I read an advanced copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
'A party is always a good idea.'
But as the buzzer sounds again - impatiently and raucously - and Baz heads out of the kitchen, Saffron feels a sudden sense of foreboding. It comes out of nowhere, as quick and powerful as a rip current. 'A party is always a good idea,' she repeats to herself. Only this time with less conviction."
Book three of The Shell House Detectives, cosy crime series, see amateur detectives Ally and Jayden investigating the death of a famous, aging rocker, who's retired to Rockpool House in Cornwall.
I enjoyed being back in Porthpella, enjoyed reading what happens next and may be in the future for friends Ally, her dog Fox, Jayden (a former police officer), Saffron and Gus. A locked room mystery in a large, cliffside mansion during a hot summer, made for a dramatic setting and introduced new characters - the dislikeable, greedy family and friends of musician and songwriter, Baz Carson, celebrating his 70th Birthday. This made for a pool of suspects, who all had motives that the police, including Sergeant Mullins as usual, are investigating. There are twists and turn as the reader learns more about the characters and suspects are ruled in and out. An engaging mystery, a gorgeous setting and great characters make this a series to get stuck into.
I read an advanced copy courtesy of the publisher via NetGalley.
July 10, 2024
I so look forward to the next one in November.
April 22, 2024
I don't read as fast as I used to, but I thought this was a very enjoyable read. This is my first experience with this author and I was only half way through the book when I ordered the second book in the series. It's nice to see some senior characters treated like living, breathing people and not like comedy relief.
April 6, 2024
Another excellent installment in Shell House series. I have really enjoyed these books…now I have to wait til the next one because I binged 3 in a row!
Most of the summary is on GR page
Most of the summary is on GR page
February 27, 2024
This was just as charming as the first book, although I didn't love the supporting cast of characters as much (and there weren't as many, to be fair). I like the relationship between Jayden and Ally, just as I did in the second book (unusually, I didn't read the first in the series). I also enjoy Gus and Saffron and Mullins (he might be my favorite).
I would appreciate if these books were a little more concise. There was a point (just as there was in the second book) where things dragged a bit in the middle and then everything wrapped up without much of a bang at the very end. So while I appreciate the time with the characters and learning about what's happening in their personal lives, I found the resolution of who killed Baz both too confusing and a little underwhelming. I had some guesses about what happened but I kept getting some characters mixed up. Also can Imogen come back and stay in Porthpella at some point?
I would appreciate if these books were a little more concise. There was a point (just as there was in the second book) where things dragged a bit in the middle and then everything wrapped up without much of a bang at the very end. So while I appreciate the time with the characters and learning about what's happening in their personal lives, I found the resolution of who killed Baz both too confusing and a little underwhelming. I had some guesses about what happened but I kept getting some characters mixed up. Also can Imogen come back and stay in Porthpella at some point?
March 7, 2024
I’ve recently listened to The Rockpool Murder by Emylia Hall as an audiobook. It’s the third in the Shell House Detective mysteries but as with most book series, you can easily read this as a standalone novel. If you have read the previous books in the series though you will be delighted to reacquaint yourself with Ally, Jayden, Scarlett, Gus and, of course, Mullins. To me they are starting to feel like old friends and I’m enjoying getting to know them more with each novel.
The narrator, Kristin Atherton, was very good especially with the various accents of the characters. I think that she had the voices of the recurring characters almost exactly as I’d imagined them and if I was reading rather than listening to further books, I’d now be hearing those voices in my mind.
This instalment sees our intrepid detectives agree to look into the death of aging rock star Baz Carson. Having just published a tell-all memoir and gathered his nearest and dearest for a party to celebrate his 70th, he is found floating face-down in his beautiful pool. There appear to be no suspicious circumstances but his first love Tallulah isn’t convinced and asks the Shell House Detectives to investigate. While they begin enquiries, there’s another death and this time it’s most definitely a murder!
What I really enjoyed about this one was the locked room feel to the story. Baz’s luxury villa, Rockpool, is a secured area with lots of media outside. No-one could have got in, could they? The plot was also reminiscent of Agatha Christie with suspects aplenty. Almost everyone in the villa would have some reason to feel aggrieved at Baz and some reason why they might want him dead, especially following the publication of the memoir. Emylia Hall dropped red herrings and mis-directions, keeping me guessing all the way through. There’s danger for the detectives and those close to them which had my heart in my mouth.
I enjoyed the Cornish setting of Porthpellow again. For a sleepy little town, there was a lot happening all through the book. Some big decisions had to be made by some of the characters and they weren’t all completely resolved in this book so I’ll eagerly be awaiting the next one.
I was slightly worried near the end of the book that this might be the last investigation for The Shell House Detectives but I’m pleased to say it became clear that this wasn’t the case. In fact. Emylia Hall will be writing three more Shell House mysteries and I couldn’t be more pleased!
The narrator, Kristin Atherton, was very good especially with the various accents of the characters. I think that she had the voices of the recurring characters almost exactly as I’d imagined them and if I was reading rather than listening to further books, I’d now be hearing those voices in my mind.
This instalment sees our intrepid detectives agree to look into the death of aging rock star Baz Carson. Having just published a tell-all memoir and gathered his nearest and dearest for a party to celebrate his 70th, he is found floating face-down in his beautiful pool. There appear to be no suspicious circumstances but his first love Tallulah isn’t convinced and asks the Shell House Detectives to investigate. While they begin enquiries, there’s another death and this time it’s most definitely a murder!
What I really enjoyed about this one was the locked room feel to the story. Baz’s luxury villa, Rockpool, is a secured area with lots of media outside. No-one could have got in, could they? The plot was also reminiscent of Agatha Christie with suspects aplenty. Almost everyone in the villa would have some reason to feel aggrieved at Baz and some reason why they might want him dead, especially following the publication of the memoir. Emylia Hall dropped red herrings and mis-directions, keeping me guessing all the way through. There’s danger for the detectives and those close to them which had my heart in my mouth.
I enjoyed the Cornish setting of Porthpellow again. For a sleepy little town, there was a lot happening all through the book. Some big decisions had to be made by some of the characters and they weren’t all completely resolved in this book so I’ll eagerly be awaiting the next one.
I was slightly worried near the end of the book that this might be the last investigation for The Shell House Detectives but I’m pleased to say it became clear that this wasn’t the case. In fact. Emylia Hall will be writing three more Shell House mysteries and I couldn’t be more pleased!
July 26, 2024
Originally posted on my blog Nonstop Reader.
The Rockpool Murder is the third Shell House cozy mystery by Emylia Hall. Released 19th March 2024 by Amazon on their Thomas & Mercer imprint, it's 380 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book (and the others in the series) are currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
This was such a fun and engaging read. The characters, including main protagonist widow Ally Bright, are rendered believably and the author gives readers realistic and natural dialogue and interaction throughout the read. This installment sees MC Ally and (non-romantic) partner Jayden investigating the sudden death of a rock star who recently bought a mansion in the area. The plot is well engineered and the clues are fair play and cleverly presented.
Although not as adept (in the reviewer's humble opinion) as the inimitable Ann Cleeves' Vera books, fans of the latter will find a lot to enjoy with this series. The settings (the Cornish coast and Northumberland respectively) feature prominently in both.
Four and a half stars. It continues to develop and go from strength to strength. It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, home reading, and gifting. With three books extant, and a fourth due out 4th quarter 2024, it would be a good candidate for a light binge or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
The Rockpool Murder is the third Shell House cozy mystery by Emylia Hall. Released 19th March 2024 by Amazon on their Thomas & Mercer imprint, it's 380 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book (and the others in the series) are currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.
This was such a fun and engaging read. The characters, including main protagonist widow Ally Bright, are rendered believably and the author gives readers realistic and natural dialogue and interaction throughout the read. This installment sees MC Ally and (non-romantic) partner Jayden investigating the sudden death of a rock star who recently bought a mansion in the area. The plot is well engineered and the clues are fair play and cleverly presented.
Although not as adept (in the reviewer's humble opinion) as the inimitable Ann Cleeves' Vera books, fans of the latter will find a lot to enjoy with this series. The settings (the Cornish coast and Northumberland respectively) feature prominently in both.
Four and a half stars. It continues to develop and go from strength to strength. It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, home reading, and gifting. With three books extant, and a fourth due out 4th quarter 2024, it would be a good candidate for a light binge or buddy read.
Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.
August 4, 2024
"The Rockpool House Murder" is book #3 in the "Shell House Detectives" series by Emylia Hall.
"Music legend Baz Carson is ready to welcome his closest friends and family to celebrate his seventieth birthday at Rockpool House, his stunning mansion set high on the cliffs on the Cornish coast. But the festivities come to an abrupt end when Baz is found dead, floating fully clothed in his infinity pool.
Tallulah, a boho-chic Californian and Baz’s first love, is convinced that his death wasn’t an accident. He’s just published his tell-all memoir, and the list of those who might wish him harm is long. But with just eight guests at Baz’s luxury, gated home, who could have killed him—and why?
Tallulah hires Ally Bright and ex-cop Jayden Weston to uncover the truth. It’s a case that becomes a race against time, and one that will push Ally and Jayden to their limits as they draw ever closer to a killer. A killer who’s hiding in plain sight and feels they have nothing to lose…"
My thoughts:
Told from multiple points of view, the story weaves through the life of Baz Carson, his family and friends. Only a handful of people were included in the invite to celebrate Baz's 70th birthday and pretty much all of them had their issues with him - and each other.
I really wasn't sure who was ultimately responsible for Baz's death but I did suspect who was behind some of the other happenings there.
Ally and Jayden were a bit reluctant to take the case but are eventually drawn in. Some stunning developments and an attack that leads to a very dangerous chase to bring a killer into custody keeps readers turning the pages!
Along the way, we are also given updates on the personal lives of some of the core characters as they have to make some of their own potentially life changing decisions.
The core characters of this series are so well drawn and are continuing to evolve and grow. Dialogue feels realistic.
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
"Music legend Baz Carson is ready to welcome his closest friends and family to celebrate his seventieth birthday at Rockpool House, his stunning mansion set high on the cliffs on the Cornish coast. But the festivities come to an abrupt end when Baz is found dead, floating fully clothed in his infinity pool.
Tallulah, a boho-chic Californian and Baz’s first love, is convinced that his death wasn’t an accident. He’s just published his tell-all memoir, and the list of those who might wish him harm is long. But with just eight guests at Baz’s luxury, gated home, who could have killed him—and why?
Tallulah hires Ally Bright and ex-cop Jayden Weston to uncover the truth. It’s a case that becomes a race against time, and one that will push Ally and Jayden to their limits as they draw ever closer to a killer. A killer who’s hiding in plain sight and feels they have nothing to lose…"
My thoughts:
Told from multiple points of view, the story weaves through the life of Baz Carson, his family and friends. Only a handful of people were included in the invite to celebrate Baz's 70th birthday and pretty much all of them had their issues with him - and each other.
I really wasn't sure who was ultimately responsible for Baz's death but I did suspect who was behind some of the other happenings there.
Ally and Jayden were a bit reluctant to take the case but are eventually drawn in. Some stunning developments and an attack that leads to a very dangerous chase to bring a killer into custody keeps readers turning the pages!
Along the way, we are also given updates on the personal lives of some of the core characters as they have to make some of their own potentially life changing decisions.
The core characters of this series are so well drawn and are continuing to evolve and grow. Dialogue feels realistic.
A thoroughly enjoyable read!
March 9, 2025
Emylia Hall writes a good yarn! She manages to develop individual characters rapidly and consistently so they feel like real (although rather unlikely) people. The situations are a bit contrived, particularly as these stories always involve a disparate group of sleuthing amateurs of varying age and social disadvantage who nevertheless outperform the combined might of both the local police and the regional murder squad. This is in part due to the ineffective Mullins who at least manages to get himself half an accolade in this episode. Emylia is never satisfied with one former mortal, and this yarn gets off to a racing start with 2 deaths for investigation and a number of historic deaths to screw up the characters' coping strategies.
As with previous offerings, the romance elements are rather weak, trivial even, and certainly unlikely, adding nothing to the story but there for the hopeless romantics who want the beautiful woman to elope with the handsome knight. It doesn't happen, but you must read the book to find out what does.
There are a small number of twists, but a lot of these are right at the end - like Agatha Christie but at least in Emylia Hall's case the clues are in the text - so it finishes in a rather messy way where all the obvious leads suddenly change, and Hall needs 3 chapters after that to sort everybody out ready for the next book. Fortunately her chapters are quite short - as in 5 minutes, and not like Dostoyevsky.
I would love to see the pictures that inspired the exhibition interludes!
I enjoyed this book as much as the previous ones and would recommend it for a light reading crime story.
As with previous offerings, the romance elements are rather weak, trivial even, and certainly unlikely, adding nothing to the story but there for the hopeless romantics who want the beautiful woman to elope with the handsome knight. It doesn't happen, but you must read the book to find out what does.
There are a small number of twists, but a lot of these are right at the end - like Agatha Christie but at least in Emylia Hall's case the clues are in the text - so it finishes in a rather messy way where all the obvious leads suddenly change, and Hall needs 3 chapters after that to sort everybody out ready for the next book. Fortunately her chapters are quite short - as in 5 minutes, and not like Dostoyevsky.
I would love to see the pictures that inspired the exhibition interludes!
I enjoyed this book as much as the previous ones and would recommend it for a light reading crime story.
March 31, 2024
In the third outing for the Shell House Detectives, the dynamic duo get involved in not one but two deaths. An ageing rockstar has moved to their village and invites some of his closest friends and family for his 70th birthday, at the same time as he publishes his tell-all memoir. Things go with a different sort of bang to the one he was hoping for.
Compared to previous books, this one pares down the PoVs a bit, and is better for it. Favourite side characters are present and correct, and both Saffron and PC Mullins get some interesting character development, especially the latter, who's grown a lot from the first book. The possible infidelity plotline that was hinted at in the previous book has sort of fizzled out though, which is both reassuring, and a bit disappointing (it got barely a sentence in passing).
The one PoV that we haven't had so far, and which would be interesting to see, is that of Jayden's wife, Cat. She's only been middling supportive of his work with Ally and seems more invested in the campsite than he is.
I did feel that the action was a bit overblown for this series with the multiple deaths, and assaults. All centred around the same group of people - it strains credulity a little. Still, apparently Hall has signed a contract for three more books in the series, and I'll be looking out for the next one.
Compared to previous books, this one pares down the PoVs a bit, and is better for it. Favourite side characters are present and correct, and both Saffron and PC Mullins get some interesting character development, especially the latter, who's grown a lot from the first book. The possible infidelity plotline that was hinted at in the previous book has sort of fizzled out though, which is both reassuring, and a bit disappointing (it got barely a sentence in passing).
The one PoV that we haven't had so far, and which would be interesting to see, is that of Jayden's wife, Cat. She's only been middling supportive of his work with Ally and seems more invested in the campsite than he is.
I did feel that the action was a bit overblown for this series with the multiple deaths, and assaults. All centred around the same group of people - it strains credulity a little. Still, apparently Hall has signed a contract for three more books in the series, and I'll be looking out for the next one.
March 10, 2024
The Shell House detectives agree to take on a tricky case when they accept Tallulah's(yes, she's from California)request to find out who killed her rock star lover of 30 years ago. The problem is it appears Baz's death was an accident.
Baz had bought a hotel and had invited a select group to attend his 70th birthday party. His relations with the guests, with the exception of Tallulah, are prickly at best - ex-wife, estranged adult children, former band member and his business manger. When business manager, Rupert is found murdered in his cottage the police begin looking for suspects. Unfortunately, almost all the party guests have motives. Ally and Jayden work together again to solve the crimes. Family grudges are aired as well as long held resentments by a former band member.
This is the third in a series that shows lots of promise. The setting in the Cornish seaside is perfectly done and adds to the tension. Ally and Jayden and two secondary characters are nicely done. There's a hint that Ally may soon be open to her neighbor Gus's romantic interest. All in all, a good story that will keep you guessing until the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advanced readers copy.
Baz had bought a hotel and had invited a select group to attend his 70th birthday party. His relations with the guests, with the exception of Tallulah, are prickly at best - ex-wife, estranged adult children, former band member and his business manger. When business manager, Rupert is found murdered in his cottage the police begin looking for suspects. Unfortunately, almost all the party guests have motives. Ally and Jayden work together again to solve the crimes. Family grudges are aired as well as long held resentments by a former band member.
This is the third in a series that shows lots of promise. The setting in the Cornish seaside is perfectly done and adds to the tension. Ally and Jayden and two secondary characters are nicely done. There's a hint that Ally may soon be open to her neighbor Gus's romantic interest. All in all, a good story that will keep you guessing until the end.
Thanks to Netgalley and Thomas & Mercer for the advanced readers copy.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 28, 2024
( Format : Audiobook )
"Breakages must be paid for."
Added to my library simply because it was set in Cornwall, I was really pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the Rock pool Murder. The third in a series of cosy mysteries, nothing was lost by neither of the two previous books having been read before. Unusually, there was a definite atmospheric feel of Cornwall (instead of the usual contrived seaside background) suffused throughout with the unexpected death of a long retired rock star at his recently purchased Cornish home on the eve of his 70th birthday. There is an ongoing story of the local residents combined with that of the incomes family and friends to the big house for a planned birthday party, many well drawn chacterisations, sparse but sufficient, and an intriguing story line to keep the reader guessing.
Narration was by Kirstin Atherton, a pleasant voice, a stead pace and well modulated throughout. A good performance which mostly enhanced the reading.The
Love the cover.
Recommended to all who enjoy an exclusive combination of character, location and keep-you-guesing plot cosy mystery and is part of the audio plus list, automatically available to read for free with the kindle plus book
"Breakages must be paid for."
Added to my library simply because it was set in Cornwall, I was really pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the Rock pool Murder. The third in a series of cosy mysteries, nothing was lost by neither of the two previous books having been read before. Unusually, there was a definite atmospheric feel of Cornwall (instead of the usual contrived seaside background) suffused throughout with the unexpected death of a long retired rock star at his recently purchased Cornish home on the eve of his 70th birthday. There is an ongoing story of the local residents combined with that of the incomes family and friends to the big house for a planned birthday party, many well drawn chacterisations, sparse but sufficient, and an intriguing story line to keep the reader guessing.
Narration was by Kirstin Atherton, a pleasant voice, a stead pace and well modulated throughout. A good performance which mostly enhanced the reading.The
Love the cover.
Recommended to all who enjoy an exclusive combination of character, location and keep-you-guesing plot cosy mystery and is part of the audio plus list, automatically available to read for free with the kindle plus book
May 22, 2024
This was the best book of the trilogy, and I really loved the first two, too.
There are two deaths in as many days, a dysfunctional family, friends who aren't quite who they purport to be. There's high drama, with accusations being bandied about, and a whole houseparty of people being questioned over their involvement (or not) with either one of the two victims.
The only constants are Ally Bright and Jayden Weston, and, of course, Cornwall's beautiful Porthpella itself.
There are twists and turns throughout the story, with dead ends and red herrings galore. But the characters, both regular and those only pertinent to this narrative, seem really plausible. The estranged family of the first dead person are so real, you'd expect to find them in a similar setting in the real world.
The novel concludes with Ally and Jayden helping the police by coming up with a viable theory as to who committed the crimes, and why. Life goes back to somewhere near normal in Porthpella, with one or two minor changes and a very bad thunderstorm.
Hope there are more to come.
There are two deaths in as many days, a dysfunctional family, friends who aren't quite who they purport to be. There's high drama, with accusations being bandied about, and a whole houseparty of people being questioned over their involvement (or not) with either one of the two victims.
The only constants are Ally Bright and Jayden Weston, and, of course, Cornwall's beautiful Porthpella itself.
There are twists and turns throughout the story, with dead ends and red herrings galore. But the characters, both regular and those only pertinent to this narrative, seem really plausible. The estranged family of the first dead person are so real, you'd expect to find them in a similar setting in the real world.
The novel concludes with Ally and Jayden helping the police by coming up with a viable theory as to who committed the crimes, and why. Life goes back to somewhere near normal in Porthpella, with one or two minor changes and a very bad thunderstorm.
Hope there are more to come.
March 11, 2024
This is one of my favorite series, and this title doesn't disappoint. Ally and Jayden make such smart and personable amateur detectives. Not quite amateur, as Jayden's a former cop, and Ally is the widow of the village's police chief.
As usual, the relationships are complex and the writing is wonderful. I love Ally and Jayden's friendship and their relationships with all the other loved ones and villagers in their lives. A dead aging rock star, one with his loved ones gathered around on the day his tell-all memoir is published, makes a likely victim. His family members and associates span a range of personalities, and there's plenty to keep the plot moving along.
I always find myself highlighting bits of thoughts and conversation in this series. Things I want to go back later to think about because they're said in a fresh way. Not to imply this is a slow-paced, character-driven novel. It's not. It's just beautifully written.
I'm already waiting for book 4!
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
As usual, the relationships are complex and the writing is wonderful. I love Ally and Jayden's friendship and their relationships with all the other loved ones and villagers in their lives. A dead aging rock star, one with his loved ones gathered around on the day his tell-all memoir is published, makes a likely victim. His family members and associates span a range of personalities, and there's plenty to keep the plot moving along.
I always find myself highlighting bits of thoughts and conversation in this series. Things I want to go back later to think about because they're said in a fresh way. Not to imply this is a slow-paced, character-driven novel. It's not. It's just beautifully written.
I'm already waiting for book 4!
Review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 11, 2024
The Rockpool Murder is set, of course, in Cornwall. This couple of private eyes are a nice balance of a not quite so young, single lady who is extremely intelligent but somewhat set in her ways and a younger married man who have joined forces to solve the various crimes around this sea-side tourist town. I have not read the first two books in the series yet, but this story can and does stand alone. The characters are well-written, and the scenery descriptions are excellent. Sometimes you feel the spray of the ocean and the sun on your face as you listen to the sea birds. The cozy mystery part is done well too. The only downside I had with the storyline is some of the suspects seem to behave a little bit too 'over-the-top' for my tastes but, then again, that's Rock-N-Roll people for you. Give it a go.
March 17, 2024
Music legend Baz Carson is ready to welcome his closest friends and family to celebrate his seventieth birthday at Rockpool House, his stunning mansion set high on the cliffs on the Cornish coast. But the festivities come to an abrupt end when Baz is found dead, floating fully clothed in his infinity pool. Tallulah, a boho-chic Californian and Baz’s first love, is convinced that his death wasn’t an accident. Tallulah hires Ally Bright and ex-cop Jayden Weston to uncover the truth.
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own I’m loving how the characters & their dynamics are developing. I really like both Ally & Jayden & thoroughly enjoyed the twists, turns & red herrings they encountered until solving the mystery. I also really enjoyed the regulars & how they feature & how they add to the story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The third book in the series & whilst it could easily be read on its own I’m loving how the characters & their dynamics are developing. I really like both Ally & Jayden & thoroughly enjoyed the twists, turns & red herrings they encountered until solving the mystery. I also really enjoyed the regulars & how they feature & how they add to the story
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
March 20, 2024
Review of “The Rockpool Murder” written by Emylia Hall.
Available March 19/2024
Disclaimer: Please note that I received a Digital ARC of this book from NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐☆☆
In “The Rockpool Murder” by Emylia Hall, the sudden death of music legend Baz Carson during his seventieth birthday celebration leads to a gripping race to uncover the truth, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Ally Bright and Jayden Weston. While the multiple perspectives add complexity to the story, they occasionally overshadow the main characters’ narrative, and the supporting cast lacks depth.
In short, this just wasn’t the book for me. However, I read this as a standalone and perhaps if I had read it as part of the series, I might feel differently.
Available March 19/2024
Disclaimer: Please note that I received a Digital ARC of this book from NetGalley and Thomas and Mercer, in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
⭐⭐⭐☆☆
In “The Rockpool Murder” by Emylia Hall, the sudden death of music legend Baz Carson during his seventieth birthday celebration leads to a gripping race to uncover the truth, spearheaded by the dynamic duo of Ally Bright and Jayden Weston. While the multiple perspectives add complexity to the story, they occasionally overshadow the main characters’ narrative, and the supporting cast lacks depth.
In short, this just wasn’t the book for me. However, I read this as a standalone and perhaps if I had read it as part of the series, I might feel differently.
March 31, 2024
This is the third in the Porthpella series featuring Ally Bright and Jayden Weston. This time it’s a version of a locked room mystery when music legend Baz Carson is found dead at his 70th birthday party at his stunning cliff top mansion Rockpool House.
I absolutely loved the setting of The Rockpool Murder and the author once again transports the reader to the beautiful Cornish coast.. The characterisation is excellent and I love the developing relationship between Ally and Jayden.Although it appears that there may be changes ahead for them both so I hope this series continues.
Another compelling mystery that I would recommend. I’ve read all three novels in this series so I’d recommend starting at the beginning to get the characters backstory but this could be read as a stand-alone.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
I absolutely loved the setting of The Rockpool Murder and the author once again transports the reader to the beautiful Cornish coast.. The characterisation is excellent and I love the developing relationship between Ally and Jayden.Although it appears that there may be changes ahead for them both so I hope this series continues.
Another compelling mystery that I would recommend. I’ve read all three novels in this series so I’d recommend starting at the beginning to get the characters backstory but this could be read as a stand-alone.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this digital ARC.
May 14, 2024
I received this book from NetGalley.
There are a lot of characters that have been mentioned right at the beginning but I have no idea who they are or how they fit in. That always makes things difficult. We find out pretty quickly who all of the characters are, but it's still a lot to take in at the beginning.
I feel like there are major events that happen and then the in-between bits are super slow and nothing happens at all. It makes it a struggle to get through some chapters. There are also a lot of characters which means a lot of storylines and that also means it takes ages to get anywhere.
Side note: There is no way that people could try and blame Connie's death on Baz or Rupert. She ran a red light, plain and simple. The other actions were irrelevant. She also made the decision to go and fetch Baz in the first place.
Overall this book was fine but honestly it was far too long.
There are a lot of characters that have been mentioned right at the beginning but I have no idea who they are or how they fit in. That always makes things difficult. We find out pretty quickly who all of the characters are, but it's still a lot to take in at the beginning.
I feel like there are major events that happen and then the in-between bits are super slow and nothing happens at all. It makes it a struggle to get through some chapters. There are also a lot of characters which means a lot of storylines and that also means it takes ages to get anywhere.
Side note: There is no way that people could try and blame Connie's death on Baz or Rupert. She ran a red light, plain and simple. The other actions were irrelevant. She also made the decision to go and fetch Baz in the first place.
Overall this book was fine but honestly it was far too long.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 26, 2024
Utterly fabulous. Third in the series, and you don't need to have read the other two because Emylia catches you up on the situation (but I'd suggest you read them anyway as they're an excellent read). Beautiful descriptions of Cornwall make you feel as if you're there with the Shell House detectives. Good mystery (I love musicians in books) with a dysfunctional set of family and friends making a good cast of potential murderers (I didn't guess). The characterisation is fabulous and it's lovely to see Ally and Jayden's personal-life dilemmas mixed in with the sleuthing. Delighted to see that there will be another three in this series; I'm very much looking forward to the next one. Five stars (if I could give more, I would).
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