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A Book Collector Mystery #3
The Wolfe Widow
As Thanksgiving approaches, Jordan Bingham is grateful for her job researching rare books for Vera Van Alst, the infamous curmudgeon of Harrison Falls, New York. But when an uninvited guest makes an appearance, much more than dinner is disrupted—and Jordan is thankful just to be alive…
Vera Van Alst doesn’t normally receive visitors without appointment, but she agrees to see the imperious Muriel Delgado upon arrival. Shortly thereafter, Jordan is told that her position is being terminated. Evicted from the Van Alst House, Jordan is determined to find out what hold Muriel has over her erstwhile employer.
It seems Muriel has designs on Vera’s money and property—not to mention a particular interest in her collection of Nero Wolfe first editions. When Jordan discovers a deadly connection between Muriel and the Van Alst family, it’s up to her to put the house in order and stop a killer from going back to press.
Vera Van Alst doesn’t normally receive visitors without appointment, but she agrees to see the imperious Muriel Delgado upon arrival. Shortly thereafter, Jordan is told that her position is being terminated. Evicted from the Van Alst House, Jordan is determined to find out what hold Muriel has over her erstwhile employer.
It seems Muriel has designs on Vera’s money and property—not to mention a particular interest in her collection of Nero Wolfe first editions. When Jordan discovers a deadly connection between Muriel and the Van Alst family, it’s up to her to put the house in order and stop a killer from going back to press.
294 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2014
78 people are currently reading
876 people want to read
About the author
Victoria Abbott
12 books294 followersPseudonym used by Victoria Maffini and mother Mary Jane Maffini.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
June 30, 2019
Filled with crazy characters, zany hijinks and, of course, yummy sounding Italian dishes, but. But, it was more like two-day old Italian bread at times. The same jokes and descriptions are getting slightly tired.
I think I’ll wait awhile before checking back in with Jordan and friends.
I think I’ll wait awhile before checking back in with Jordan and friends.
September 14, 2015
The Wolfe Widow by Victoria Abbott.
Jordan Bingham or as her Uncle Kev calls her Jordie is spending another evening in anticipation of a splendid meal served up by the Signora. The doorbell rings which takes everyone present by surprise. Who could be at the door at this time? They weren't expecting anyone or deliveries of any sort. Vera Van Alst, Jordan's employer, definitely did not welcome this intrusion into their dinner time.
Jordan leaves the dining room to answer the door. The vision standing before her is that of a huge woman draped in a flowing black cape. This unwelcomed apparition in black then demands to see Vera and crosses the threshold against Jordan's wishes for an appointment to made beforehand.
This most unwelcomed person is in fact an acquaintance of Vera's from her school years. An acquaintance that spells trouble for Vera and brings on an upheaval in the order of the Van Alst household and Jordan's life that she never saw coming.
This is an adventure a reader can and must get involved in. Creatively written with true to life characters and relationships that continue to evolve adding to the mystery that Jordan must solve.
Jordan Bingham or as her Uncle Kev calls her Jordie is spending another evening in anticipation of a splendid meal served up by the Signora. The doorbell rings which takes everyone present by surprise. Who could be at the door at this time? They weren't expecting anyone or deliveries of any sort. Vera Van Alst, Jordan's employer, definitely did not welcome this intrusion into their dinner time.
Jordan leaves the dining room to answer the door. The vision standing before her is that of a huge woman draped in a flowing black cape. This unwelcomed apparition in black then demands to see Vera and crosses the threshold against Jordan's wishes for an appointment to made beforehand.
This most unwelcomed person is in fact an acquaintance of Vera's from her school years. An acquaintance that spells trouble for Vera and brings on an upheaval in the order of the Van Alst household and Jordan's life that she never saw coming.
This is an adventure a reader can and must get involved in. Creatively written with true to life characters and relationships that continue to evolve adding to the mystery that Jordan must solve.
January 8, 2016
I've been trying to summon the energy to review this book. However, I find that as time passes, I feel less inclined to write something, except maybe "mediocre". It was worse than that, though. This book rubbed me up the wrong way. It irritated me.
Now, to be fair, I have not read the first and second books in this series, so perhaps I am missing the magic somehow, but I doubt it. My main problem is with Jordan's character. The reader has the unfortunate experience of being inside Jordan's head for most of the time and this person is vapid. Despite being nearly pure exposition, I still found her thoughts jumbled and messy. The dialogue was just as bad. It's completely stilted and weird.
The mystery is pretty ridiculous, the characters try to turn regular events into something scandalous, to be kept secret. No one here communicates freely and that irks me.
I cannot recommend this series when there are so many better mystery series available. I'm going to return to Louise Penny's work, because her characters add to the mystery, rather than detract from it.
Now, to be fair, I have not read the first and second books in this series, so perhaps I am missing the magic somehow, but I doubt it. My main problem is with Jordan's character. The reader has the unfortunate experience of being inside Jordan's head for most of the time and this person is vapid. Despite being nearly pure exposition, I still found her thoughts jumbled and messy. The dialogue was just as bad. It's completely stilted and weird.
The mystery is pretty ridiculous, the characters try to turn regular events into something scandalous, to be kept secret. No one here communicates freely and that irks me.
I cannot recommend this series when there are so many better mystery series available. I'm going to return to Louise Penny's work, because her characters add to the mystery, rather than detract from it.
September 28, 2014
What a fun read the third book in the Book Collection Mystery is! Jordan Bingham is employed by Vera Van Alst to find and purchase rare books. She also sells some of Vera's book in order to upgrade the collection. The books starts out with the door bell ringing at dinner time. Upon answering the door, Jordan encounters a tall woman dressed in black wearing a black cape. It is the character of Muriel Delgrado who sweeps into Vera's house and from then on the house and lives of people are tuned upside down.
Vera is not a push over and yet Muriel has some power over her. Jordan is terminated the next day after Muriel's arrival. No more cabbage rose wallpapered garret for Jordon. Gone is the job she loves. the Signora Panetone meals, the wonderful books and her connection to Vera. The schedule which Vera strictly adhered to is changed. What power does Muriel have over Vera and is Vera in danger?
Jordan does care for Vera and decides to investigate. Vera is a fan of Nero Wolfe and Jordan likes the wise cracking debonair Archie Goodwin. She calls on her knowledge of Archie when she gets into trouble as what would Archie do.
It is a fun humorous series. One of my favorite character is Signora Flammetta Pantone who is the cook for Vera. She is a marvelous cook and seems to think most problems can be solved by eating. A favorite scene was when Jordan stealthily went into the Van Alst house at night after a trip across the field at night. On her return trip to her car, the Signora made her take a tin of cookies and some prosciutto and cheese sandwiches back. There is a lot to like about this book-the uncles, good cat, bad cat, the two dogs, and the ending where everyone was gathered together to expose the murderer. I have liked every book in this series but this is my favorite book of the three.
Vera is not a push over and yet Muriel has some power over her. Jordan is terminated the next day after Muriel's arrival. No more cabbage rose wallpapered garret for Jordon. Gone is the job she loves. the Signora Panetone meals, the wonderful books and her connection to Vera. The schedule which Vera strictly adhered to is changed. What power does Muriel have over Vera and is Vera in danger?
Jordan does care for Vera and decides to investigate. Vera is a fan of Nero Wolfe and Jordan likes the wise cracking debonair Archie Goodwin. She calls on her knowledge of Archie when she gets into trouble as what would Archie do.
It is a fun humorous series. One of my favorite character is Signora Flammetta Pantone who is the cook for Vera. She is a marvelous cook and seems to think most problems can be solved by eating. A favorite scene was when Jordan stealthily went into the Van Alst house at night after a trip across the field at night. On her return trip to her car, the Signora made her take a tin of cookies and some prosciutto and cheese sandwiches back. There is a lot to like about this book-the uncles, good cat, bad cat, the two dogs, and the ending where everyone was gathered together to expose the murderer. I have liked every book in this series but this is my favorite book of the three.
October 27, 2020
Um, it was okay?
I really * want * to like this series but I think I struggle with the development. Too many of the plot elements feel like they come out of other series but lack the development to make sense here. This one kept me vaguely interested by placing Jordan in unfamiliar scenarios without her usual cast and crew but my sympathy was lacking.
Probably didn't help that I'm not sure familiar with Nero Wolfe books.
Might keep reading.
I really * want * to like this series but I think I struggle with the development. Too many of the plot elements feel like they come out of other series but lack the development to make sense here. This one kept me vaguely interested by placing Jordan in unfamiliar scenarios without her usual cast and crew but my sympathy was lacking.
Probably didn't help that I'm not sure familiar with Nero Wolfe books.
Might keep reading.
April 19, 2016
I wish there were a lower rating than one star to give, because there are books out there that are so loathsome that they deserve it. This book is not like that, I don't hate it, I just don't know what rating to give it other than one star, because there's really nothing to recommend it.
The writing is not awful, but neither is it enjoyable. The characters are not very consistent, one character is constantly portrayed as intelligent and cynical, but she is fooled by a blatantly obvious con. Large segments of the book are taken up with the protagonist whining and feeling self-pity. Probably the worst is just how hard it is to be drawn into the book, because it doesn't feel anything like reality. The main character is hit by a truck that would have killed her, but she is knocked into a bag of leaves and so she only gets a concussion... how is that even remotely conceivable? Near strangers agree to support outlandish plots, even though they involve personal danger and committing felonies. The protagonist decides the best way to learn more about the mystery is to break in and steal documents from a lawyer - and her getaway plan is to bring a dog with her (disguised with Halloween make-up, because everyone in town knows this dog...), so no one who sees her after the break in will think it could have been her. On the subject, almost every store in town lets her bring her dogs inside, except for a few, but it is perfectly normal for her to tie the dogs up outside the main entrance, in late November, when it's almost freezing...
It's just, this book is not worthy of hate, but neither is it worthy of a minute of one's time. The characters are cardboard, and it feels as though it were written by an alien.
The writing is not awful, but neither is it enjoyable. The characters are not very consistent, one character is constantly portrayed as intelligent and cynical, but she is fooled by a blatantly obvious con. Large segments of the book are taken up with the protagonist whining and feeling self-pity. Probably the worst is just how hard it is to be drawn into the book, because it doesn't feel anything like reality. The main character is hit by a truck that would have killed her, but she is knocked into a bag of leaves and so she only gets a concussion... how is that even remotely conceivable? Near strangers agree to support outlandish plots, even though they involve personal danger and committing felonies. The protagonist decides the best way to learn more about the mystery is to break in and steal documents from a lawyer - and her getaway plan is to bring a dog with her (disguised with Halloween make-up, because everyone in town knows this dog...), so no one who sees her after the break in will think it could have been her. On the subject, almost every store in town lets her bring her dogs inside, except for a few, but it is perfectly normal for her to tie the dogs up outside the main entrance, in late November, when it's almost freezing...
It's just, this book is not worthy of hate, but neither is it worthy of a minute of one's time. The characters are cardboard, and it feels as though it were written by an alien.
September 1, 2014
If you’re looking for a well written book with an exciting plot, you’ve just found it. THE WOLFE WIDOW is most certainly the book for you.
The first sentence of the book, “The doorbell rang”, and the characters reactions to said ringing doorbell, assured me this would be hard to put this book down. Well, it was! Cleverly written mystery, suspense, humor, and wonderfully written characters, kept me turning pages longer into the night than I had planned. But it was completely worth it.
If you liked the first two books in the Book Collector Mystery series, THE CHRISTIE CURSE, and THE SAYERS SWINDLE, you will delight in THE WOLFE WIDOW. If you haven’t read this series, get them all now and read them one after the other. Your only regret will be the amount of time you have to wait for book number four to be released.
The first sentence of the book, “The doorbell rang”, and the characters reactions to said ringing doorbell, assured me this would be hard to put this book down. Well, it was! Cleverly written mystery, suspense, humor, and wonderfully written characters, kept me turning pages longer into the night than I had planned. But it was completely worth it.
If you liked the first two books in the Book Collector Mystery series, THE CHRISTIE CURSE, and THE SAYERS SWINDLE, you will delight in THE WOLFE WIDOW. If you haven’t read this series, get them all now and read them one after the other. Your only regret will be the amount of time you have to wait for book number four to be released.
September 28, 2021
I'm really enjoying this series. I like that a classic mystery author is highlighted in each book and it makes me want to try their books. I like Jordan and how she doesn't give up. The mystery was good and I was kept guessing as to the accomplice's identity. Loved the classic gathering of the suspects at the end.
August 27, 2018
You really can't expect plausibility with this series. This installment wasn't my favourite, mainly because Jordan does very little that is book-related in this thing, due to her having lost her job thanks to a scheming half-sibling of Vera's. Also, all her friends go awol at around the same time, so the book just feels like it's contriving to stack the odds. Not so much a fan. And things weren't really helped by the fact that my library only had this in audiobook (which seems like an odd choice, but never mind). Uncle Kev's constant interrupting and needing to have everything spelled out to him and explained in ridiculous detail, along with his inability to stay on topic and answer a simple question in a straightforward way (I assume it's intended to be charming - it is not), is irritating in print, where it can be skimmed. In audio form, it borders on intolerable. And it's a lot harder to skim. You can skip ahead 20 seconds on Overdrive. I started doing that for his and Jordan's conversations, because I could not deal.
Also, had to listen to this on 1.5x the speed.
Not sure I'm ever going to love audiobooks. They're not bad for the walk to work, I suppose.
Also, had to listen to this on 1.5x the speed.
Not sure I'm ever going to love audiobooks. They're not bad for the walk to work, I suppose.
September 29, 2014
Calling all book lovers! The collaborative effort which is Victoria Abbott has released the latest book in the Book Collector mystery series, The Wolfe Widow. Readers who are in love with books will truly find this series captivating. Each book in the series has focused in some part on a particular author and this time it is Rex Stout and his infamous character, Nero Wolfe. Readers are treated to a mystery that doesn't necessarily involve a murder. A rare thing for the cozy genre. Victoria Abbott once again thrills readers with humor, plenty of sleuthing and some very eccentric characters. A great addition to the series!
What I liked:
Did I ever mention I love a good mystery? LOL! The Book Collector Mystery series, strikes a cord with me on a lot of levels. First and foremost, I have been a cozy reader all the way back to high school when I started reading Agatha Christie, who in my opinion was the forerunner to the cozy genre we have today. Victoria Abbott's nod to some of the great mystery writers of the past with this series, is phenomenal. Some readers may not have read these authors, but they certainly have heard of them and getting to find out more about their work in the form of a good mystery is so much fun. Abbott knows how to incorporate interesting facts about authors and books into her mysteries and I think real book lovers truly appreciate that.
Jordan finds herself in quite a pickle with this book, not only does a mysterious woman appear who seems to have some kind of ominous control over her employer, Vera Van Alst, but she ends up back where she started. Jordan is the one member of her family that has chosen the straight and narrow way instead of a life of crime and getting fired from her job as the procurer of Vera Van Alst's rare book collection has certainly set her back. Abbott uses a lot of humor in her writing and it often centers around Jordan's rather dubious uncles who still have their hands in a few pots too many. I loved the development of Jordan's story in this one. She has to fight for position and her uncles actually come to her rescue in a few situations. The more I learn about this family the more I like them. Not only is Jordan a great sleuth, but she is also a great person. Her growth in this one was a joy to read.
Now I am all for a good murder or two to give a cozy mystery the oomph it needs to get going, but sometimes it just isn't necessary. There was a murder attempt and some murder in the background so to speak but Victoria Abbott proves you don't have to have murder as the main conflict to make a cozy mystery work. The real story in this book was what kind of control did Muriel Delgado have over Vera? How does anybody have control over Vera? I love that old lady, she has spunk, determination and she doesn't give a darn what anybody thinks about her. She is an amazing character and I loved the fact that Abbott makes her curmudgeony and grumpy and very likable underneath it all. Abbott pulled it off... a cozy that doesn't rely on a murder. Well done!
What I didn't like:
When you have a dastardly villain appear on the scene, you want to dislike them. You want to feel that thing in your gut go, hmmmm, I don't like that character. Muriel, though certainly formidable, didn't make me scared. She kind of made me mad, but she didn't strike fear into me, like some bad guys do. Though that's often the case in cozies, I wanted to be a little more afraid of what she was up to. Not a deal breaker though, this was a fantastic book, regardless of the fear factor.
Bottom Line:
This series just keeps getting better and better. Abbott obviously loves good mystery writing and she uses it to her advantage. Book lovers and mystery lovers alike will love the nods to the greats, the humor that pervades this series and the great characters that are hard to forget. I want some of Signora's prosciutto sammies!
What I liked:
Did I ever mention I love a good mystery? LOL! The Book Collector Mystery series, strikes a cord with me on a lot of levels. First and foremost, I have been a cozy reader all the way back to high school when I started reading Agatha Christie, who in my opinion was the forerunner to the cozy genre we have today. Victoria Abbott's nod to some of the great mystery writers of the past with this series, is phenomenal. Some readers may not have read these authors, but they certainly have heard of them and getting to find out more about their work in the form of a good mystery is so much fun. Abbott knows how to incorporate interesting facts about authors and books into her mysteries and I think real book lovers truly appreciate that.
Jordan finds herself in quite a pickle with this book, not only does a mysterious woman appear who seems to have some kind of ominous control over her employer, Vera Van Alst, but she ends up back where she started. Jordan is the one member of her family that has chosen the straight and narrow way instead of a life of crime and getting fired from her job as the procurer of Vera Van Alst's rare book collection has certainly set her back. Abbott uses a lot of humor in her writing and it often centers around Jordan's rather dubious uncles who still have their hands in a few pots too many. I loved the development of Jordan's story in this one. She has to fight for position and her uncles actually come to her rescue in a few situations. The more I learn about this family the more I like them. Not only is Jordan a great sleuth, but she is also a great person. Her growth in this one was a joy to read.
Now I am all for a good murder or two to give a cozy mystery the oomph it needs to get going, but sometimes it just isn't necessary. There was a murder attempt and some murder in the background so to speak but Victoria Abbott proves you don't have to have murder as the main conflict to make a cozy mystery work. The real story in this book was what kind of control did Muriel Delgado have over Vera? How does anybody have control over Vera? I love that old lady, she has spunk, determination and she doesn't give a darn what anybody thinks about her. She is an amazing character and I loved the fact that Abbott makes her curmudgeony and grumpy and very likable underneath it all. Abbott pulled it off... a cozy that doesn't rely on a murder. Well done!
What I didn't like:
When you have a dastardly villain appear on the scene, you want to dislike them. You want to feel that thing in your gut go, hmmmm, I don't like that character. Muriel, though certainly formidable, didn't make me scared. She kind of made me mad, but she didn't strike fear into me, like some bad guys do. Though that's often the case in cozies, I wanted to be a little more afraid of what she was up to. Not a deal breaker though, this was a fantastic book, regardless of the fear factor.
Bottom Line:
This series just keeps getting better and better. Abbott obviously loves good mystery writing and she uses it to her advantage. Book lovers and mystery lovers alike will love the nods to the greats, the humor that pervades this series and the great characters that are hard to forget. I want some of Signora's prosciutto sammies!
September 21, 2015
To be honest, I nearly stopped reading this about 1/4 way in. Either I wasn't in the mood for it, my reading periods were too short or the story just didn't engage me.
So, I decided to sit down and read a big chunk at a time to see if I liked the story better. I did. It still wasn't great but it was entertaining.
I have noticed that as this series progresses I am less than enamored with it with each book. I don't know if I find the setting or characters too ordinary, but I'll have to ponder this and decide whether or not to continue reading.
So, I decided to sit down and read a big chunk at a time to see if I liked the story better. I did. It still wasn't great but it was entertaining.
I have noticed that as this series progresses I am less than enamored with it with each book. I don't know if I find the setting or characters too ordinary, but I'll have to ponder this and decide whether or not to continue reading.
September 20, 2016
THE DOORBELL RANG is the name of my favorite Nero Wolfe mystery Tand it is the beginning of this story. The book is based on Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe books. Jordan uses Archie's techniques to handle the happenings in her life. A stranger is at the door of the Van Alst's mansion. Shortly after, Jordan is fired and is given four hours to move her belongings from her cushy apartment. Who is this stranger, what hold does she have over Vera? Are the police corrupt? Jordan must find out by alone as her usual help has gone missing. The next two books are high on my TBR pile.
November 6, 2019
I think that to fully appreciate this book, one would have to have read the first two in the series.
It is days before Thanksgiving and Jordan is feeling very content with her life until one night during dinner with her cranky employer Vera Van Alst and her Uncle Kevin, the door bell rings. Jordan opens the door to an imperious older woman (Muriel Delgado) but tells her that Vera is not available. The commanding looking woman insists that Vera WILL see HER.
At breakfast the next morning, Jordan and Vera are having breakfast and discussing Nero Wolfe, when Vera drops the bomb that Jordan is fired. Out of nowhere! Jordan is positive that Vera has been happy with her work. She has even risked her life to procure books for her. Why is this happening?
Back in her childhood room at her uncles' place, Jordan is licking her wounds and seeking comfort from her two best friends, librarian Lance and recently returned to town nurse Tiff. They do not answer her texts all week. Even though she has been fired, she is still fond of the cranky Vera and feels that something is wrong. She finds out through Uncle Kev that the witch Muriel has move into the mansion and is doing everything she can to isolate Vera from all support. What sort of hold does she have over Vera?
Normally Jordan would turn to her sort of boyfriend, the enigmatic Officer Smiley, but even he is MIA, supposedly out of town on a training course. She is looking after his large mutt Cobain, along with Karen's pug Walter. While she is grateful for the dogs' company, she would really like a human to talk over matters with, aside from childish Uncle Kev who can never get anything right.
In spite of being hit by a truck and thrown 10 ft in the course of her investigation (she lands in bags of freshly raked leaves), Jordan continues to question anyone who might know something about Muriel and her relationship to Vera. She eats a lot of pastries along the way and eventually comes to the truth in the nick of time.
Love the colourful characters in this book! A delightful change of pace from the typical cozy.
It is days before Thanksgiving and Jordan is feeling very content with her life until one night during dinner with her cranky employer Vera Van Alst and her Uncle Kevin, the door bell rings. Jordan opens the door to an imperious older woman (Muriel Delgado) but tells her that Vera is not available. The commanding looking woman insists that Vera WILL see HER.
At breakfast the next morning, Jordan and Vera are having breakfast and discussing Nero Wolfe, when Vera drops the bomb that Jordan is fired. Out of nowhere! Jordan is positive that Vera has been happy with her work. She has even risked her life to procure books for her. Why is this happening?
Back in her childhood room at her uncles' place, Jordan is licking her wounds and seeking comfort from her two best friends, librarian Lance and recently returned to town nurse Tiff. They do not answer her texts all week. Even though she has been fired, she is still fond of the cranky Vera and feels that something is wrong. She finds out through Uncle Kev that the witch Muriel has move into the mansion and is doing everything she can to isolate Vera from all support. What sort of hold does she have over Vera?
Normally Jordan would turn to her sort of boyfriend, the enigmatic Officer Smiley, but even he is MIA, supposedly out of town on a training course. She is looking after his large mutt Cobain, along with Karen's pug Walter. While she is grateful for the dogs' company, she would really like a human to talk over matters with, aside from childish Uncle Kev who can never get anything right.
In spite of being hit by a truck and thrown 10 ft in the course of her investigation (she lands in bags of freshly raked leaves), Jordan continues to question anyone who might know something about Muriel and her relationship to Vera. She eats a lot of pastries along the way and eventually comes to the truth in the nick of time.
Love the colourful characters in this book! A delightful change of pace from the typical cozy.
October 18, 2021
Muriel Delgado shows up demanding to see Vera Van Alst. In spite of Jordan's attempts to put her off, she barges in. The next morning Jordan is fired and Muriel moves in. Jordan isn't sure what Muriel wants, but she knows Vera is in danger. When reports from her Uncle Kev and the Senora give her glimpses of what's going on, she knows she is right. As she begins to investigate Muriel's past, she's almost killed in a hit and run accident. Complicating things, most of Jordan's friends are unavailable to help her, and the officer in charge of the case appears to be linked to Muriel. This series differs from most cozies because Jordan's family doesn't always do the lawful thing. In this installment, Jordan follows the manner of Archie Goodwin in the Nero Wolfe novels. One secondary plot element felt only partially resolved at the end. Perhaps it is where the author picks up the next installment, but I felt the resolution needed to be in this book. I listened to the audiobook. (3.5 stars)
March 9, 2019
Well, this one starts off with a bang. I was astounded by what happens in the first 2 chapters. (sorry-no spoilers!)
This is the 3rd book in the series and the pace is much quicker than the previous 2.
I don’t know anything about this writer but perhaps the first book was her first book and now that she has the hang of it as it were, she’s improving her writing as the series goes on.
Some light humor. Intriguing mystery.
Good characters.
This is the 3rd book in the series and the pace is much quicker than the previous 2.
I don’t know anything about this writer but perhaps the first book was her first book and now that she has the hang of it as it were, she’s improving her writing as the series goes on.
Some light humor. Intriguing mystery.
Good characters.
January 8, 2022
This was definitely my favorite of the three books I've read in the series so far. The pacing was really really good and the characterization was a lot stronger than usual. I think this might be because a lot of the usual side characters weren't around so it gave Jordan a chance to shine more. Also did a great job dropping the right hints in the right places.
July 10, 2017
This book was wonderful! I really am enjoying this series as a whole. This book showed determination, strength, and a love for books. It was just a great book, I recommend the series to anyone who loves mysteries, sleuthing, chaos, and fun!
May 1, 2019
Mysterious Muriel Delgado arrives unannounced at Vera Van Alst's home and, the next thing we know, our protagonist (Jordan) is out on the street. What follows is an interesting story related to Vera's past with reference to the Nero Wolfe series. Quite entertaining.
April 19, 2020
This may be my favorite so far!
November 23, 2024
I. Am. Loving. This. Series!!!! All the characters, the harkening back to my favorite writers! Cannot get enough!!!!
February 18, 2021
This is the third book in the series and I liked it alot. I like the writing better than I liked the first one, but not as well as the second one. Now I just have to get the 4th and 5th one.
January 17, 2017
Totally wonderful book:) The story kept me on edge as I love a great detective story. Love Vicotoria Abbott's "A Book Collector Mystery's".
March 29, 2018
Usually a series gets better with each book, but not this one. The plot became more ridiculous, & the heroine's behaviour more silly as the book went on. I admit I haven't read anything by Rex Stout in over 40 years, & didn't much enjoy them from memory, so perhaps that didn't help. Books like this make me glad I've only borrowed them from the library.
April 28, 2023
* Enjoy my reviews? I would appreciate knowing what you enjoy with a comment, instead an empty ‘like button’ click.
Victoria Abbott receives three stars for the first time. I appreciate their pure mystery ideas: some unanswered question instead of a crime. This protagonist does not stumble upon bodies. Several remarks had me laughing hard, a wonderful feeling. However by volume three, some information grows redundant, like reminding us Jordan owns lock-picking tools. Noting her uncles' puzzling background is alright but quips about "not wanting to know" have become overdone. Series-followers are bogged down if basic information is repeated. By volume three, we should be rewarded by breezing ahead briskly.
Most glaring: Kev is too annoying to have a major role. The "look how stupid he is" gambit needs to go. The "clueless conversation" shtick is only tolerable once. The hurt look, never. No one is hurt when we need to stress a point. I love pets, although the cats are unfortunately stick figures. However it pushed nonsense past patience to bring cats and dogs to a perilously-orchestrated coup! The authors lost sight of creating a suspenseful ambiance and dwelled on capers. I enjoy novels that are for fun and suspending disbelief but the choices I mentioned, crossed the line far enough to weaken this one.
Dramatizing Tiff, Lance, and Tyler's absence created a weak link too. They are secondary and could have been skipped very naturally. Attention was placed overmuch on their obscure omission; also detracting from the mystery. I dislike protagonists sweating over a new boyfriend, particularly with Jordan caring for Tyler's dog! This novel's energy was noticeably misplaced. I caught an error: the pillows were pushed under the covers. They were not handy. The end played-out illogically. To record a nefarious deed, we wouldn't intercept a villain and chat. We would let them hang themselves; which they would not do, knowing we are loitering outside the door!
Victoria Abbott receives three stars for the first time. I appreciate their pure mystery ideas: some unanswered question instead of a crime. This protagonist does not stumble upon bodies. Several remarks had me laughing hard, a wonderful feeling. However by volume three, some information grows redundant, like reminding us Jordan owns lock-picking tools. Noting her uncles' puzzling background is alright but quips about "not wanting to know" have become overdone. Series-followers are bogged down if basic information is repeated. By volume three, we should be rewarded by breezing ahead briskly.
Most glaring: Kev is too annoying to have a major role. The "look how stupid he is" gambit needs to go. The "clueless conversation" shtick is only tolerable once. The hurt look, never. No one is hurt when we need to stress a point. I love pets, although the cats are unfortunately stick figures. However it pushed nonsense past patience to bring cats and dogs to a perilously-orchestrated coup! The authors lost sight of creating a suspenseful ambiance and dwelled on capers. I enjoy novels that are for fun and suspending disbelief but the choices I mentioned, crossed the line far enough to weaken this one.
Dramatizing Tiff, Lance, and Tyler's absence created a weak link too. They are secondary and could have been skipped very naturally. Attention was placed overmuch on their obscure omission; also detracting from the mystery. I dislike protagonists sweating over a new boyfriend, particularly with Jordan caring for Tyler's dog! This novel's energy was noticeably misplaced. I caught an error: the pillows were pushed under the covers. They were not handy. The end played-out illogically. To record a nefarious deed, we wouldn't intercept a villain and chat. We would let them hang themselves; which they would not do, knowing we are loitering outside the door!
September 21, 2014
Jordan Bingham has her dream job working to acquire BOOKS FOR the infamous, Vera Van Alst for her valuable book collection. When the mysterious, Muriel Delgado suddenly appears at Vera's front door and forces her way into Vera's estate and just as suddenly Jordan finds herself fired and thrown out of the home where she has lived with Vera leaving Jordan bewildered as to what happened.
Vera has a passion for Rex Stout's Nero Wolfe mysteries and so does Jordan, in true Nero Wolfe fashion Jordan is determined to find out what hold Muriel has over Vera with Muriel now moved into the house and alienating Vera from her employees and support systems. Jordan's uncle Kev also works for Vera as a HANDYMAN and makes it a point to report to Jordan all the goings on in the house and how Muriel is taking over.
Jordan soon fears for Vera's life and wants to find out whats going on and she soon finds out just how dangerous Muriel can be when Jordan is hit by a truck that she suspects that Muriel has has a hand in collaborating. The selling of Vera's beloved books also sends Jordan into a tailspin. Jordan needs to find the missing link between Vera and Muriel to unlock their hidden secrets and find the truth before Muriel tries to close the BOOK ON them for good.
Victoria Abbott has a talent for writing dazzling characters that come off the page, I am a big fan of Jordan and her not so law abiding uncles. Vera who at first I loathed by the end of the book I had grown to have compassion for. Muriel was the ultimate villan in The Wolfe Widow and even I had a crippling fear of what she was about to do next. An engaging plot. A great whodunit for book lovers and old fashioned mysteries. I can't wait to read and review the next in the series.
September 2, 2014
The Wolfe Widow is the third book in the A Book Collector Mystery series.
When Muriel Delgrado knocks on the Van Alst door and demands to see Vera, Jordan figures this will be over quickly. But Vera surprises Jordan and allows Muriel to see her. Even more surprising is that Jordan, shortly thereafter find herself fired and banned from the mansion and it's property. Jordan loves her job and has a feeling that something just isn't right and fears for Vera's safety. Jordan wants her job back and begins to try and find out who Muriel is and what hold she has over Vera. Soon Jordan finds herself the victim of a hit and run driver, which was surely no accident. Jordan finds out that there is some connection between Delgrado and the Van Alst shoe factory. She just needs to find out what that connection before the driver does a better job of running her down.
Not many of the regular characters are back to help Jordan, but Uncle Kevin is ready to help. One new character is Cherie, an acquaintance of Uncle Kevin proves to be a big help. She's the cable service installer and electronics wizard and it's probably best not to ask if everything she does is legal. But Signora is around and cooking up a storm. She also provides some tasty sounding recipes.
Looking forward to the next book is this fun series.
When Muriel Delgrado knocks on the Van Alst door and demands to see Vera, Jordan figures this will be over quickly. But Vera surprises Jordan and allows Muriel to see her. Even more surprising is that Jordan, shortly thereafter find herself fired and banned from the mansion and it's property. Jordan loves her job and has a feeling that something just isn't right and fears for Vera's safety. Jordan wants her job back and begins to try and find out who Muriel is and what hold she has over Vera. Soon Jordan finds herself the victim of a hit and run driver, which was surely no accident. Jordan finds out that there is some connection between Delgrado and the Van Alst shoe factory. She just needs to find out what that connection before the driver does a better job of running her down.
Not many of the regular characters are back to help Jordan, but Uncle Kevin is ready to help. One new character is Cherie, an acquaintance of Uncle Kevin proves to be a big help. She's the cable service installer and electronics wizard and it's probably best not to ask if everything she does is legal. But Signora is around and cooking up a storm. She also provides some tasty sounding recipes.
Looking forward to the next book is this fun series.
November 25, 2016
I started this book because it was listed as a Thanksgiving themed book, and those are few and far between. And yes, it took place during the week of Thanksgiving, and at the end there was a big dinner, but that's it.
Jordan Bingham works for, and lives in the home of, Vera Van Alst, a woman whose family was once quite prominent in the town, but is now hated due to loss of jobs at their factory. Jordan is quite pleased with her job as a live in book-collecting/book-selling consultant for Vera's amazing collection. Until one evening a mysterious woman named Muriel Delgado shows up unannounced and takes over everything. Jordan finds herself out of a job, and cannot figure out why. She becomes determined to find out why Muriel is able to wield such power over Vera, who is usually a force to be reckoned with.
I read the entire book, and it was interesting enough, but frankly it didn't really do anything for me. Everything about it was just OK - the characters, the story, the setting. And in my opinion it has no business calling itself Thanksgiving themed.
Overall - meh.
Jordan Bingham works for, and lives in the home of, Vera Van Alst, a woman whose family was once quite prominent in the town, but is now hated due to loss of jobs at their factory. Jordan is quite pleased with her job as a live in book-collecting/book-selling consultant for Vera's amazing collection. Until one evening a mysterious woman named Muriel Delgado shows up unannounced and takes over everything. Jordan finds herself out of a job, and cannot figure out why. She becomes determined to find out why Muriel is able to wield such power over Vera, who is usually a force to be reckoned with.
I read the entire book, and it was interesting enough, but frankly it didn't really do anything for me. Everything about it was just OK - the characters, the story, the setting. And in my opinion it has no business calling itself Thanksgiving themed.
Overall - meh.
March 28, 2015
Since I don't normally write reviews unless I have something specific to say, here's the break down of how I rate my books...
1 star... This book was bad, so bad I may have given up and skipped to the end. I will avoid this author like the plague in the future.
2 stars... This book was not very good, and I won't be reading any more from the author.
3 stars... This book was ok, but I won't go out of my way to read more, But if I find another book by the author for under a dollar I'd pick it up.
4 stars... I really enjoyed this book and will definitely be on the look out to pick up more from the series/author.
5 stars... I loved this book! It has earned a permanent home in my collection and I'll be picking up the rest of the series and other books from the author ASAP.
January 12, 2015
I think I loved this book better than the first two! I was really into the story and couldn't put it down until I knew who the accomplice was. We got to see a little more into Vera's life and see (possibly) why she is the way she is. I can't wait for the next installment!
March 4, 2015
It really keeps you in suspense.
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