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Murder, She Wrote #42
Death of a Blue Blood
In the newest mystery in the USA Today bestselling series, Jessica Fletcher is invited to ring in the New Year with British aristocracy. Too bad someone’s about to end the life of the party....
Jessica Fletcher and her friend Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland are invited to attend a New Year’s Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle, thanks to her British publisher. Shortly after arriving in the idyllic English countryside, Jessica discovers the body of a lady’s maid in the garden.
While their host, Lord Norrance, his snobbish third wife, other members of the household, and party guests squabble over the tragic death in tight-lipped, perfectly mannered, thoroughly British style, family relations are strained as old wounds are reopened and cutting remarks are freely handed out. And that’s only during teatime!
As midnight beckons at the ball the next night, the earl offers a toast, complete with fireworks. But the merriment crashes to a halt when he falls ill and dies, apparently poisoned—and the number of suspects with a grudge against the lord of the manor sprouts like English ivy.
Now it’s up to Jessica and George to find the killer—or killers—before another corpse welcomes in the New Year....
Jessica Fletcher and her friend Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland are invited to attend a New Year’s Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle, thanks to her British publisher. Shortly after arriving in the idyllic English countryside, Jessica discovers the body of a lady’s maid in the garden.
While their host, Lord Norrance, his snobbish third wife, other members of the household, and party guests squabble over the tragic death in tight-lipped, perfectly mannered, thoroughly British style, family relations are strained as old wounds are reopened and cutting remarks are freely handed out. And that’s only during teatime!
As midnight beckons at the ball the next night, the earl offers a toast, complete with fireworks. But the merriment crashes to a halt when he falls ill and dies, apparently poisoned—and the number of suspects with a grudge against the lord of the manor sprouts like English ivy.
Now it’s up to Jessica and George to find the killer—or killers—before another corpse welcomes in the New Year....
278 pages, Hardcover
First published October 7, 2014
58 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Fletcher
117 books1,054 followersLibrarian’s note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Jessica Fletcher (born Jessica Beatrice MacGill, and writes under the initialed J.B. Fletcher) is a fictional character from the US television series Murder, She Wrote.
In keeping with the spirit of the TV show, a series of official original novels have been written by American ghostwriter Donald Bain and published by the New American Library. The author credit for the novels is shared with the fictitious "Jessica Fletcher." When the first novel in the series, Gin and Daggers, was published in 1989 it included several inaccuracies to the TV series including Jessica driving a car which she could not do as she never learned to drive. Due to fans pointing out the errors, the novel was republished in 2000 with most of the inaccuracies corrected.
Source: Wikipedia
Jessica Fletcher (born Jessica Beatrice MacGill, and writes under the initialed J.B. Fletcher) is a fictional character from the US television series Murder, She Wrote.
In keeping with the spirit of the TV show, a series of official original novels have been written by American ghostwriter Donald Bain and published by the New American Library. The author credit for the novels is shared with the fictitious "Jessica Fletcher." When the first novel in the series, Gin and Daggers, was published in 1989 it included several inaccuracies to the TV series including Jessica driving a car which she could not do as she never learned to drive. Due to fans pointing out the errors, the novel was republished in 2000 with most of the inaccuracies corrected.
Source: Wikipedia
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 14, 2019
Great story, wonderful characters.
December 10, 2018
A large print book that my Mom wanted me to read before we sent it to a friend of ours, this was quick and easy entertainment. Anyone who liked the old show Murder, She Wrote would love this romp in a stately British home full of feuding family members and secrets just hinted at.
Sorry, I didn't make any plot notes but I did stay up late the night i read it because I just had to see what happened!
Sorry, I didn't make any plot notes but I did stay up late the night i read it because I just had to see what happened!
July 19, 2023
Una vecchia villa, misteri sepolti, omicidi, Jessica e anche un pizzico d'amore? Ma questo è il libro perfetto!
September 1, 2023
«Che coppia! Un ispettore capo di Scotland Yard e un’autrice di gialli!»./i>
Ebbene sì, perché Jessica, assieme al suo “amico” George, e grazie ai contatti altolocati del suo editore britannico, è stata invitata a festeggiare il nuovo anno nelle Costwolds, più precisamente a Castorbrook Castle. Il proprietario della favolosa (quanto costosissima) tenuta è Lord Norrance, Conte di settima generazione, che nel corso delle pagine si rivela essere un tipo arrogante, eccentrico, disonesto, giocatore d’azzardo e, di conseguenza, pieno di debiti. Non che il resto della famiglia sia poi così meglio: nonostante la morte “accidentale” di una cameriera, scoperta casualmente dalla protagonista pochi minuti dopo il suo arrivo, la Contessa continua imperterrita ad organizzare il grande ballo che rappresenterà il momento clou dell’evento. Per non parlare poi dei figli…
Jessica si dimostra essere la solita intraprendente ficcanaso e andrà a caccia di indizi, incappando in numerosi segreti, intrighi e tradimenti.
A differenza di altri gialli appartenenti a questa serie, ho trovato che in “OMICIDI E BUONE MANIERE” Jessica Fletcher e Donald Bain abbiano utilizzato uno stile più avvincente. Inoltre, è stato lasciato molto spazio alle riflessioni di Jessica sul suo status di vedova e sull’evoluzione del rapporto con George (che a me personalmente non sta poi così simpatico). Certo è che faccio davvero fatica a sovrapporre la Jessica descritta con Angela Lansbury, l’attrice che l’ha impersonata per tanti anni!
Comunque, questa è stata una delle rare volte in cui ho previsto con esattezza e largo anticipo chi fosse il colpevole (non credo possa essere considerato un complimento per un giallo).
Ebbene sì, perché Jessica, assieme al suo “amico” George, e grazie ai contatti altolocati del suo editore britannico, è stata invitata a festeggiare il nuovo anno nelle Costwolds, più precisamente a Castorbrook Castle. Il proprietario della favolosa (quanto costosissima) tenuta è Lord Norrance, Conte di settima generazione, che nel corso delle pagine si rivela essere un tipo arrogante, eccentrico, disonesto, giocatore d’azzardo e, di conseguenza, pieno di debiti. Non che il resto della famiglia sia poi così meglio: nonostante la morte “accidentale” di una cameriera, scoperta casualmente dalla protagonista pochi minuti dopo il suo arrivo, la Contessa continua imperterrita ad organizzare il grande ballo che rappresenterà il momento clou dell’evento. Per non parlare poi dei figli…
Jessica si dimostra essere la solita intraprendente ficcanaso e andrà a caccia di indizi, incappando in numerosi segreti, intrighi e tradimenti.
A differenza di altri gialli appartenenti a questa serie, ho trovato che in “OMICIDI E BUONE MANIERE” Jessica Fletcher e Donald Bain abbiano utilizzato uno stile più avvincente. Inoltre, è stato lasciato molto spazio alle riflessioni di Jessica sul suo status di vedova e sull’evoluzione del rapporto con George (che a me personalmente non sta poi così simpatico). Certo è che faccio davvero fatica a sovrapporre la Jessica descritta con Angela Lansbury, l’attrice che l’ha impersonata per tanti anni!
Comunque, questa è stata una delle rare volte in cui ho previsto con esattezza e largo anticipo chi fosse il colpevole (non credo possa essere considerato un complimento per un giallo).
May 18, 2018
Jessica fletcher is an author who writes novel about crime and is invited to a castle for a new years party.however before the party can even start,she and her friend,scotland yard inspector finds a dead body of the personal maid to the lady of the manor.how did she die?why?who would want to kill such an unimportant person.but the following night,during the party,the lord of the castle dies.are the murders linked?who is behind them?some secrets should never be exposed even in spite
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2014
Getting a new Murder, She Wrote book to me is like opening up the package of my favourite chocolate bar. I may not be expecting anything nourishing but I am expecting something pleasurable.
I haven't finished this novel but I have to say the author really has ticked me off with the writing on the UK problem of Cattle TB and badgers. Either stay out of controversial arguments or show respect, which means getting the facts straight, for both sides. The author says "It comes down to money." Bull. Painting UK cattle ranchers as too cheap to buy vaccine so they are killing badgers instead is misinformed and unfair. Perhaps the author should have mentioned there is no legal vaccine currently available. There is a BCG vaccine but it is illegal to use because there is no way of determining if the cow has TB if the vaccine is used - oh and it is only about 56-68% effective.
Now, they are working on vaccine programs for cattle and for badgers (that last one does cost a small fortune - over 3,000 pounds/badger) as well as a way to detect at slaughter whether the cow has TB or has just had the vaccine. The majority of cattle ranchers there want to vaccinate their cattle.
Sorry, I know that was a rant but that part of the book really annoyed me and is leaving a bad taste in my mouth toward a novel that I pre-ordered months ago and was really looking forward to.:( BTW - I am not a UK cattle rancher, just get annoyed with authors who throw controversial issues into their stories without fairly telling both sides of the story.
OK, so I am now done the book and I have given my one star rating. Really, I didn't think this was the best Murder, She Wrote novel, far too close to Downton Abbey in some ways and too easy to figure out. Honestly, I probably would have enjoyed it anyway and given the book a 4 star rating if it hadn't been for the whole stupid badger thing. I just couldn't get over it even though perhaps that is unfair to the author and the book. It's just how it is.
I haven't finished this novel but I have to say the author really has ticked me off with the writing on the UK problem of Cattle TB and badgers. Either stay out of controversial arguments or show respect, which means getting the facts straight, for both sides. The author says "It comes down to money." Bull. Painting UK cattle ranchers as too cheap to buy vaccine so they are killing badgers instead is misinformed and unfair. Perhaps the author should have mentioned there is no legal vaccine currently available. There is a BCG vaccine but it is illegal to use because there is no way of determining if the cow has TB if the vaccine is used - oh and it is only about 56-68% effective.
Now, they are working on vaccine programs for cattle and for badgers (that last one does cost a small fortune - over 3,000 pounds/badger) as well as a way to detect at slaughter whether the cow has TB or has just had the vaccine. The majority of cattle ranchers there want to vaccinate their cattle.
Sorry, I know that was a rant but that part of the book really annoyed me and is leaving a bad taste in my mouth toward a novel that I pre-ordered months ago and was really looking forward to.:( BTW - I am not a UK cattle rancher, just get annoyed with authors who throw controversial issues into their stories without fairly telling both sides of the story.
OK, so I am now done the book and I have given my one star rating. Really, I didn't think this was the best Murder, She Wrote novel, far too close to Downton Abbey in some ways and too easy to figure out. Honestly, I probably would have enjoyed it anyway and given the book a 4 star rating if it hadn't been for the whole stupid badger thing. I just couldn't get over it even though perhaps that is unfair to the author and the book. It's just how it is.
October 8, 2014
In this newest edition of the Murder She Wrote series we ring in the new year with mystery writer Jessica Fletcher and her close friend a detective inspector of Scotland Yard, George Sutherland. They are invited to Castorbrook Castle with her British publisher by the Lord and Lady Norrance .
Just as suddenly as Jessica settles into her room where she is to stay for the duration of her time at the castle, she looks out the window to discover a woman lying on the ground, she ventures out of her room to investigate and finds her dead. Being a typical British Royal family they are closed mouthed and perfectly poised regarding the death, when the identity of the woman is discovered, that she is no other than the Lady's maid and the children on the castle's previous caretaker, Flavia Beckwith .
There is to be a costume ball to be held at the castle to ring in the new year and the Earl wants to make a toast to the new year but before he gets a chance and without warning he collapses and dies apparently of a poisoning from caviar. Soon after it is discovered that there are many grudges and suspects emerging against the Lord of the Castle and family secrets start rising to the surface. With Jessica's knack for solving crimes and as a writer of mystery novels with her expertise along with her detective friend, George, find a murderer.
It was so refreshing to see a relationship blossoming between Jessica and George, The murder she wrote series is a comfort to the soul with murder always at the helm keeping me wanting more and more of this series. I love how Jessica always finds a way to weave herself into every situation to help solve a crime. With a mix of endearing and vicious characters makes this edition of the Murder she Wrote series a must read. I can't wait to read and review the next in the series.
September 1, 2015
At forty-three books and counting, what can I say about a book in the Murder She Wrote series that hasn’t already been said?
Author Donald Bain along with his collaborator Jessica Fletcher, have a real flare for storytelling and have done a remarkable job of continuing the adventures of Ms. Fletcher. When you read a book in this series, it’s like sitting in front of the television and watching an episode of the show the books are based on. You can hear the characters voices via the actors of from the show.
As with past installments in this series, DEATH OF A BLUE BLOOD was extremely well written with an entertaining plot. It’s always fun having Jessica team up with Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland. They make an excellent pair. While they investigate one murder another apparent murder happens. With more suspects than a few, Mr. Bain gave my brain a real work out while trying to solve this mystery.
If you’re a fan of the Murder She Wrote Mystery series, you’re going to love this installment. Haven’t read any of the books but loved the show? No worries. Reading DEATH OF A BLUE BLOOD is like watching a lost episode.
Make sure to check out the back of the book for an excerpt from book 44, THE GHOST AND MRS. FLETCHER.
Author Donald Bain along with his collaborator Jessica Fletcher, have a real flare for storytelling and have done a remarkable job of continuing the adventures of Ms. Fletcher. When you read a book in this series, it’s like sitting in front of the television and watching an episode of the show the books are based on. You can hear the characters voices via the actors of from the show.
As with past installments in this series, DEATH OF A BLUE BLOOD was extremely well written with an entertaining plot. It’s always fun having Jessica team up with Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland. They make an excellent pair. While they investigate one murder another apparent murder happens. With more suspects than a few, Mr. Bain gave my brain a real work out while trying to solve this mystery.
If you’re a fan of the Murder She Wrote Mystery series, you’re going to love this installment. Haven’t read any of the books but loved the show? No worries. Reading DEATH OF A BLUE BLOOD is like watching a lost episode.
Make sure to check out the back of the book for an excerpt from book 44, THE GHOST AND MRS. FLETCHER.
August 11, 2020
This was so much fun! I loved the setting and the mystery. Each 'Murder, She Wrote' book has a different setting and they never get old! This sort of felt like a Jessica Fletcher goes to the Cottswolds for some murder mystery at Downton Abbey. It was just a great read!
May 19, 2020
Simply delightful.
September 9, 2024
Stars: 3 / 5
Recommendation: Another decent read although a little disappointed that Jessica and George havent taken the next step. A travelogue mixed with mystery certainly has a certain charm for sure !
Death of a Blue Blood is the 42nd novel in the long-running Murder She Wrote series co-written by Donald Bain & fictional writer Jessica Fletcher. It was first published on October 7 of 2014. This book reunites Jessica with her love interest Scotland Yard Chief Inspector George Sutherland as they attend a New Year's Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle in England hoping to experience a proper celebration. Instead they are pulled into a string of murders.
This is my take on the series of books written by a plethora of authors and Jessica Fletcher (fictional author) based on the 80s and 90s popular American crime drama television series Murder, She Wrote. These books are ghost written by Donald Bain and fictional author Jessica Fletcher for the first 43 books until 2015. Then Donald Bain wrote these with Renee Paley Bain and Jon Land for four more books. After Donald Bain passed away in 2017, Jon Land alone took the baton and continued with Jessica Fletcher for 5 more books until 2020. Starting 2021 the series was picked by Terrie Farley Moran again pairing with the fictional writer Jessica Fletcher. As of April 2024, 58 books have been written in this series. They are mostly written in first person narration.
Finally Bain acknowledges his wife Renee Paley Bain in the opening credits, as she might have helped him write so far. A brief glimpse of the first time Jessica comes to Scotland to visit George. You can read it in Book #8 The Highland Fling Murders. https://inspirethoughts.livejournal.c... And Bain outlines the story of Book #37 Trouble at High Tide explaining away that whenever George and Jessica meet they almost always end up embroiled in murder. https://galavantreflections.com/2023/...
A slight contention is seen between Jessica and George as they tread along to solve the murders. This has not happened before. Wonder if Bain was thinking to take their story in a different line. We also see Jessica beginning to doubt what she has with George. However they rekindle by the end of plot even though they don’t take the next step.
If my instincts are right, I think I guessed who the killer was somewhere around 8th chapter, but motive I couldn't guess and I was totally wrong. As with all her travelogue mystery books, we get an eyeful of what Castorbrook Castle, surrounding village and the new year's eve ball looks like just by the paras and paras of detailed description by Bain. And the description of the dinner makes you hungry just reading about it.
Author does bring forth the UK troubles of Cattle TB and Badgers. Another decent read although a little disappointed that Jessica and George havent taken the next step. A travelogue mixed with mystery certainly has a certain charm for sure !
Spoiler Alerts:
1. Grammatical / Character / Plot / Geographical / Historical / Mythological Errors:
a. On Pg. 146, Bain has Kip being referred to as "Young Earl" as the new heir. But On Pg. 157, when one of his character addresses him as the young earl, Bain mentions that it was mentioned for the first time. But he had already brought that up 10 pages before.
2. Sub Plots:
a. Friends of Jessica Fletcher: Dr. Seth Hazlitt; George Sutherland, senior inspector with Scotland Yard; Morton "Mort" Metzger, Cabot Cove Sherriff and his wife Maureen / Adele?; Eve Simpson, realtor friend working at Cabot Cove Realty; Sam Booth, mayor of Cabot Cove; Ethan Cragg, Cabot Cove’s chief town elder.
b. Literary contacts and friends: her American publisher Vaughan Buckley of Buckley House, his fashion model wife Olga Buckley and their dogs Sadie and Rose; Harry McGraw, her private eye friend; Matt Miller, her literary agent & his wife Susan; Paulette, Matt's assistant; her British Publisher Griffin Semple, son of her original publisher Archibald Semple
c. Other Cabot Cove characters: Josh, the mailman; Jed Richardson, only bush pilot for Cabot Cove and owner of Jed's Flying Service, and his wife Alicia / Barbara?; Mara, restaurant owner of Mara’s Luncheonette; Hank Weathers, a homeless war vet; Seamus McGilray, manager of Hill House Hotel; Richard "Dick" Mann, Fire Chief; Charlene Sassi, a baker; Susan Shevlin, travel agent and her husband Jim, Mayor of Cabot Cove; Professor Donskoy; Roberta Dougherty, bookstore owner; Richard Koser, photographer, and his wife MaryJane; Barbara DePaoli, Chamber of Commerce's secretary; Anthon Colarusso, dentist; Beth and Peter Mullin, owners of flower shop Old Thyme Floral; Sam Davis, investment advisor; Jack Decker, publisher of Cabot Cove's monthly magazine; Peter Eder, Cabot Cove's symphony orchestra; Bob Daros, owns Heritage Fuel; Tim Purdy, treasurer of chamber of commerce and historian and president of Cabot Cove's historical society, also an investment advisor, and his wife Ellen; Pat Hitchcock, Cabot Cove's popular nurse and teacher?; Gloria Watson, Wendell's mother; Joseph "Joe" Turco, an attorney; Marcia Davis, costume designer; David and Jim Raneri, owners of Charles Department Store; Ralph Mackin, town attorney; Ed and Joan Lerner, retirees; Brenda Brody, copy editor of Cabot Cove Insider; Doug Treyz, dentist, and his wife Tina; Jack and Marilou Decker, publishers of Cabot Cove Insider; Peter and Roberta Walters, owners of the radio station; Horace Teller, publisher of Cabot Cove News; Doris Sitar, assistant manager at Cabot Cove Savings Bank; Dmitri, owner of local taxi company; Phil Wick, field manager of the phone company; John St. Clair, professor of business law at Cabot Cove Community College; Dr. Jennifer "Jenny" Countryman, Seth's partner; Reginald "Reggie" Weems, insurance agent; Richard Jenkins & Sal Marterella, city council members; Jack Wilson, the Veterinarian, and his wife Tobe; Evelyn Phillips, editor of Cabot Cove Gazette; Maniram Chatterjee & his wife Hita, jewelry shop owners; Sanford Teller, runs public relations agency; Lee, postmistress; Loretta Spiegel, owns beauty salon.
d. Sheriff Metzger’s office staff & other law enforcement: Deputy Andy Jenks; Deputy Jack; Rookie Wendell Watson; Deputy Harold; Deputy Jerry; Alfred Gillo, medical examiner; Judge Kaplan; Marie Poutre, dispatcher; Officer Edgar.
e. Jessica Fletcher’s family: Grady Fletcher, nephew that she and her late-husband Frank raise, his wife Donna and child Frank.
f. We know the reason as to why Mort Metzger's wife is called Maureen as of the 20th book A Slaying in Savannah. However, I distinctly remember her name being changed to Adele in the 50th book, A Time for Murder. Looks like the confusion is not completely alleviated.
g. I remember reading one of the later books (and couldn’t figure out which one was that) where we see Sam Booth as the mayor of Cabot Cove. However, since I started reading the series from the beginning, looks like the mayor of Cabot Cove is Jim Shevlin. I wonder if Sam Booth surfaces as I remember from way back read.
h. From the 9th book, Murder on the QE2: Mary Ward has been a prominent character in this book. Will she resurface again?
i. From the 10th book, Murder in Moscow:
i. There is still no resolution as to who or how Ward Wenington was killed in D.C. and why Vladislav "Vlady" Staritova was killed in Russia. What was the connection?
ii. Alexandra Kozhina disappears at the end of the plot. And will she surface in another book?
j. In the 27th book Coffee, Tea or Murder? we see that Jed's wife is named Barbara. But up until then she was named Alicia. Wonder if Bain will have a backup story for that in future books.
k. From the 30th book:
i. Tom Craig offers Michael Haggerty a book deal to write about his escapades as an undercover British spy.
ii. There is no closure as to who actually kills the person in the first murder.
iii. Will Jennifer Kahn, the alleged jewel thief, walk away free since they could only find circumstantial evidence against her and nothing concrete?
l. From the 37th book: If I ever try the sidecar recipe I will have to post it again referring the 37th book.
m. In the 50th book, A Time for Murder, Jessica is shown at Hill House, Cabot Cove’s very own Inn due to a fire at her Victorian home at 698 Candlewood Lame. I wonder if the 49th book, Murder in Red, has anything to do with her house getting caught fire which almost killed her.
n. From the 51st book, The Murder of Twelve:
i. Author Land gives considerable mystery to Seamus McGilray’s character. I wonder if he resurfaces in a future book.
ii. Towards the end of the book, Mort jokes that Jessica should run for mayor. Hmm…something to look forward to I suppose.
Recommendation: Another decent read although a little disappointed that Jessica and George havent taken the next step. A travelogue mixed with mystery certainly has a certain charm for sure !
Death of a Blue Blood is the 42nd novel in the long-running Murder She Wrote series co-written by Donald Bain & fictional writer Jessica Fletcher. It was first published on October 7 of 2014. This book reunites Jessica with her love interest Scotland Yard Chief Inspector George Sutherland as they attend a New Year's Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle in England hoping to experience a proper celebration. Instead they are pulled into a string of murders.
This is my take on the series of books written by a plethora of authors and Jessica Fletcher (fictional author) based on the 80s and 90s popular American crime drama television series Murder, She Wrote. These books are ghost written by Donald Bain and fictional author Jessica Fletcher for the first 43 books until 2015. Then Donald Bain wrote these with Renee Paley Bain and Jon Land for four more books. After Donald Bain passed away in 2017, Jon Land alone took the baton and continued with Jessica Fletcher for 5 more books until 2020. Starting 2021 the series was picked by Terrie Farley Moran again pairing with the fictional writer Jessica Fletcher. As of April 2024, 58 books have been written in this series. They are mostly written in first person narration.
Finally Bain acknowledges his wife Renee Paley Bain in the opening credits, as she might have helped him write so far. A brief glimpse of the first time Jessica comes to Scotland to visit George. You can read it in Book #8 The Highland Fling Murders. https://inspirethoughts.livejournal.c... And Bain outlines the story of Book #37 Trouble at High Tide explaining away that whenever George and Jessica meet they almost always end up embroiled in murder. https://galavantreflections.com/2023/...
A slight contention is seen between Jessica and George as they tread along to solve the murders. This has not happened before. Wonder if Bain was thinking to take their story in a different line. We also see Jessica beginning to doubt what she has with George. However they rekindle by the end of plot even though they don’t take the next step.
If my instincts are right, I think I guessed who the killer was somewhere around 8th chapter, but motive I couldn't guess and I was totally wrong. As with all her travelogue mystery books, we get an eyeful of what Castorbrook Castle, surrounding village and the new year's eve ball looks like just by the paras and paras of detailed description by Bain. And the description of the dinner makes you hungry just reading about it.
Author does bring forth the UK troubles of Cattle TB and Badgers. Another decent read although a little disappointed that Jessica and George havent taken the next step. A travelogue mixed with mystery certainly has a certain charm for sure !
Spoiler Alerts:
1. Grammatical / Character / Plot / Geographical / Historical / Mythological Errors:
a. On Pg. 146, Bain has Kip being referred to as "Young Earl" as the new heir. But On Pg. 157, when one of his character addresses him as the young earl, Bain mentions that it was mentioned for the first time. But he had already brought that up 10 pages before.
2. Sub Plots:
a. Friends of Jessica Fletcher: Dr. Seth Hazlitt; George Sutherland, senior inspector with Scotland Yard; Morton "Mort" Metzger, Cabot Cove Sherriff and his wife Maureen / Adele?; Eve Simpson, realtor friend working at Cabot Cove Realty; Sam Booth, mayor of Cabot Cove; Ethan Cragg, Cabot Cove’s chief town elder.
b. Literary contacts and friends: her American publisher Vaughan Buckley of Buckley House, his fashion model wife Olga Buckley and their dogs Sadie and Rose; Harry McGraw, her private eye friend; Matt Miller, her literary agent & his wife Susan; Paulette, Matt's assistant; her British Publisher Griffin Semple, son of her original publisher Archibald Semple
c. Other Cabot Cove characters: Josh, the mailman; Jed Richardson, only bush pilot for Cabot Cove and owner of Jed's Flying Service, and his wife Alicia / Barbara?; Mara, restaurant owner of Mara’s Luncheonette; Hank Weathers, a homeless war vet; Seamus McGilray, manager of Hill House Hotel; Richard "Dick" Mann, Fire Chief; Charlene Sassi, a baker; Susan Shevlin, travel agent and her husband Jim, Mayor of Cabot Cove; Professor Donskoy; Roberta Dougherty, bookstore owner; Richard Koser, photographer, and his wife MaryJane; Barbara DePaoli, Chamber of Commerce's secretary; Anthon Colarusso, dentist; Beth and Peter Mullin, owners of flower shop Old Thyme Floral; Sam Davis, investment advisor; Jack Decker, publisher of Cabot Cove's monthly magazine; Peter Eder, Cabot Cove's symphony orchestra; Bob Daros, owns Heritage Fuel; Tim Purdy, treasurer of chamber of commerce and historian and president of Cabot Cove's historical society, also an investment advisor, and his wife Ellen; Pat Hitchcock, Cabot Cove's popular nurse and teacher?; Gloria Watson, Wendell's mother; Joseph "Joe" Turco, an attorney; Marcia Davis, costume designer; David and Jim Raneri, owners of Charles Department Store; Ralph Mackin, town attorney; Ed and Joan Lerner, retirees; Brenda Brody, copy editor of Cabot Cove Insider; Doug Treyz, dentist, and his wife Tina; Jack and Marilou Decker, publishers of Cabot Cove Insider; Peter and Roberta Walters, owners of the radio station; Horace Teller, publisher of Cabot Cove News; Doris Sitar, assistant manager at Cabot Cove Savings Bank; Dmitri, owner of local taxi company; Phil Wick, field manager of the phone company; John St. Clair, professor of business law at Cabot Cove Community College; Dr. Jennifer "Jenny" Countryman, Seth's partner; Reginald "Reggie" Weems, insurance agent; Richard Jenkins & Sal Marterella, city council members; Jack Wilson, the Veterinarian, and his wife Tobe; Evelyn Phillips, editor of Cabot Cove Gazette; Maniram Chatterjee & his wife Hita, jewelry shop owners; Sanford Teller, runs public relations agency; Lee, postmistress; Loretta Spiegel, owns beauty salon.
d. Sheriff Metzger’s office staff & other law enforcement: Deputy Andy Jenks; Deputy Jack; Rookie Wendell Watson; Deputy Harold; Deputy Jerry; Alfred Gillo, medical examiner; Judge Kaplan; Marie Poutre, dispatcher; Officer Edgar.
e. Jessica Fletcher’s family: Grady Fletcher, nephew that she and her late-husband Frank raise, his wife Donna and child Frank.
f. We know the reason as to why Mort Metzger's wife is called Maureen as of the 20th book A Slaying in Savannah. However, I distinctly remember her name being changed to Adele in the 50th book, A Time for Murder. Looks like the confusion is not completely alleviated.
g. I remember reading one of the later books (and couldn’t figure out which one was that) where we see Sam Booth as the mayor of Cabot Cove. However, since I started reading the series from the beginning, looks like the mayor of Cabot Cove is Jim Shevlin. I wonder if Sam Booth surfaces as I remember from way back read.
h. From the 9th book, Murder on the QE2: Mary Ward has been a prominent character in this book. Will she resurface again?
i. From the 10th book, Murder in Moscow:
i. There is still no resolution as to who or how Ward Wenington was killed in D.C. and why Vladislav "Vlady" Staritova was killed in Russia. What was the connection?
ii. Alexandra Kozhina disappears at the end of the plot. And will she surface in another book?
j. In the 27th book Coffee, Tea or Murder? we see that Jed's wife is named Barbara. But up until then she was named Alicia. Wonder if Bain will have a backup story for that in future books.
k. From the 30th book:
i. Tom Craig offers Michael Haggerty a book deal to write about his escapades as an undercover British spy.
ii. There is no closure as to who actually kills the person in the first murder.
iii. Will Jennifer Kahn, the alleged jewel thief, walk away free since they could only find circumstantial evidence against her and nothing concrete?
l. From the 37th book: If I ever try the sidecar recipe I will have to post it again referring the 37th book.
m. In the 50th book, A Time for Murder, Jessica is shown at Hill House, Cabot Cove’s very own Inn due to a fire at her Victorian home at 698 Candlewood Lame. I wonder if the 49th book, Murder in Red, has anything to do with her house getting caught fire which almost killed her.
n. From the 51st book, The Murder of Twelve:
i. Author Land gives considerable mystery to Seamus McGilray’s character. I wonder if he resurfaces in a future book.
ii. Towards the end of the book, Mort jokes that Jessica should run for mayor. Hmm…something to look forward to I suppose.
October 29, 2014
This is another wonderful Murder She Wrote mystery. In Death of a Blue Blood, Jessica reunites with George Sutherland, and together, they find themselves in the middle of a murder investigation at a fabulous estate, complete with royalty. Spend a wonderful evening with a perfect mystery with the characters we love.
July 10, 2017
Being a confirmed Murder, She Wrote fan, it should come as no surprise that I loved this book. The author's use of tension to focus the reader on several red herrings and then to surprise the reader in the end is one of the aspects that makes this a great mystery.
October 3, 2015
My review for Murder, She Wrote: Death of a Blue Blood by Jessica Fletcher and Donald Bain will be linked back here in the near future. Stay Tuned!
March 31, 2025
In Death of a Blue Blood, Jessica Fletcher is ringing in the New Year with the British upper crust, which means she's about to trip over a corpse while someone pours her Earl Grey. She’s been invited to Castorbrook Castle in the Cotswolds — all rolling hills, old money, and polished silver — courtesy of her UK publisher. The vibes? Downton Abbey with murder. And not even the expensive kind of murder — we’re talking murdered staff before the welcome party even kicks off.
Jessica arrives with her charming Scotland Yard maybe-boyfriend, George Sutherland, ready for a quaint little countryside ball. Instead, she finds a maid dead in the garden, family drama leaking through the antique wallpaper, and an entire guest list acting like it’s normal to casually host a gala with a fresh homicide on the lawn.
Lord Norrance, the family’s resident earl and walking entitlement complex, insists the show must go on. The party continues, the champagne flows, and then — surprise! — the earl drops dead mid-toast at midnight. Another “tragic accident,” or, you know, a very well-timed poisoning. Now there are two bodies, too many suspects, and a castle full of people who all have something to hide, including secrets that have been festering longer than the Christmas pudding.
Jessica, naturally, starts sleuthing through the snobbery — dealing with a third wife who’s hanging on by the hem of her designer gown, adult children with trust fund dysfunction, and guests who would literally kill to protect their reputation. And maybe already did.
This may be Book #42 in the Murder, She Wrote series, but it works just fine as a standalone — especially if you’re into murder mysteries where everyone’s trapped in a castle, the tea is hot, and every guest has at least one secret and a scandalous godparent. If you are a longtime fan, you’ll clock Jessica’s slow-burn romance with George Sutherland deepening beneath the tartan and tension. But even if you’ve never set foot in Cabot Cove, watching her outwit the British upper crust with nothing but manners and relentless logic is pure, cozy murder gold.
Four stars. Death of a Blue Blood is what happens when a murder mystery crashes a New Year’s Eve ball and no one has the social skills to call it off. If you love castle intrigue, upper-class delusion, and Jessica Fletcher politely bulldozing her way through generational secrets — this one absolutely delivers.
Jessica arrives with her charming Scotland Yard maybe-boyfriend, George Sutherland, ready for a quaint little countryside ball. Instead, she finds a maid dead in the garden, family drama leaking through the antique wallpaper, and an entire guest list acting like it’s normal to casually host a gala with a fresh homicide on the lawn.
Lord Norrance, the family’s resident earl and walking entitlement complex, insists the show must go on. The party continues, the champagne flows, and then — surprise! — the earl drops dead mid-toast at midnight. Another “tragic accident,” or, you know, a very well-timed poisoning. Now there are two bodies, too many suspects, and a castle full of people who all have something to hide, including secrets that have been festering longer than the Christmas pudding.
Jessica, naturally, starts sleuthing through the snobbery — dealing with a third wife who’s hanging on by the hem of her designer gown, adult children with trust fund dysfunction, and guests who would literally kill to protect their reputation. And maybe already did.
This may be Book #42 in the Murder, She Wrote series, but it works just fine as a standalone — especially if you’re into murder mysteries where everyone’s trapped in a castle, the tea is hot, and every guest has at least one secret and a scandalous godparent. If you are a longtime fan, you’ll clock Jessica’s slow-burn romance with George Sutherland deepening beneath the tartan and tension. But even if you’ve never set foot in Cabot Cove, watching her outwit the British upper crust with nothing but manners and relentless logic is pure, cozy murder gold.
Four stars. Death of a Blue Blood is what happens when a murder mystery crashes a New Year’s Eve ball and no one has the social skills to call it off. If you love castle intrigue, upper-class delusion, and Jessica Fletcher politely bulldozing her way through generational secrets — this one absolutely delivers.
January 9, 2024
Dopo diverso tempo ho deciso di tornare a leggere un libro della mia amata signora in giallo!
Qui troviamo una storia davvero carina!
Innanzitutto lo stile dell'autore si conferma meravigliosamente scorrevole! Personaggi caratterizzati alla perfezione, descrizioni davvero belle e dettagliate che portano il lettore ad immedesimarsi in ambienti e scene!
La storia mi ha colpita dall'inizio perché ho trovato una Jessica innamorata e sinceramente non me l'aspettavo (o per lo meno non ricordavo nella serie tv questo dettaglio).
L'ambientazione della festa da ballo per la fine dell'anno in un castello inglese appartenente ad una famiglia di conti (i Grant) mi ha portato in un'atmosfera da favola!
Troviamo subito dopo pochi capitoli il primo mistero da risolvere e in questo libro i colpi di scena e gli omicidi diciamo che non mancano.
Devo ammettere che quasi da subito ho nutrito sospetti verso quello che poi si è rivelato essere il reale assassino ed anche un po' il mistero che avvolge il primo omicidio ed il personaggio di Colin!
Ho amato molto questa storia perchè davvero scorrevole, come personaggi ho amato come al solito la signora in giallo ma il suo "amore" non mi ha colpita molto diciamo che quel "dolcezza" mi ha dato un po' fastidio.
Un personaggio che non ho assolutamente apprezzato è la signorina Powter.
consigli a tutti di leggerlo!
Qui troviamo una storia davvero carina!
Innanzitutto lo stile dell'autore si conferma meravigliosamente scorrevole! Personaggi caratterizzati alla perfezione, descrizioni davvero belle e dettagliate che portano il lettore ad immedesimarsi in ambienti e scene!
La storia mi ha colpita dall'inizio perché ho trovato una Jessica innamorata e sinceramente non me l'aspettavo (o per lo meno non ricordavo nella serie tv questo dettaglio).
L'ambientazione della festa da ballo per la fine dell'anno in un castello inglese appartenente ad una famiglia di conti (i Grant) mi ha portato in un'atmosfera da favola!
Troviamo subito dopo pochi capitoli il primo mistero da risolvere e in questo libro i colpi di scena e gli omicidi diciamo che non mancano.
Devo ammettere che quasi da subito ho nutrito sospetti verso quello che poi si è rivelato essere il reale assassino ed anche un po' il mistero che avvolge il primo omicidio ed il personaggio di Colin!
Ho amato molto questa storia perchè davvero scorrevole, come personaggi ho amato come al solito la signora in giallo ma il suo "amore" non mi ha colpita molto diciamo che quel "dolcezza" mi ha dato un po' fastidio.
Un personaggio che non ho assolutamente apprezzato è la signorina Powter.
consigli a tutti di leggerlo!
October 7, 2015
http://openbooksociety.com/article/mu...
Murder, She Wrote: Death of a Blue Blood
Murder, She Wrote, Book #42
By Jessica Fletcher and Donald Bain
ISBN 9780451468260
Author’s website: www.donaldbain.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
In the newest mystery in the USA Today bestselling series, Jessica Fletcher is invited to ring in the New Year with British aristocracy. Too bad someone’s about to end the life of the party….
Jessica Fletcher and her friend Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland are invited to attend a New Year’s Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle, thanks to her British publisher. Shortly after arriving in the idyllic English countryside, Jessica discovers the body of a lady’s maid in the garden.
While their host, Lord Norrance, his snobbish third wife, other members of the household, and party guests squabble over the tragic death in tight-lipped, perfectly mannered, thoroughly British style, family relations are strained as old wounds are reopened and cutting remarks are freely handed out. And that’s only during teatime!
As midnight beckons at the ball the next night, the earl offers a toast, complete with fireworks. But the merriment crashes to a halt when he falls ill and dies, apparently poisoned—and the number of suspects with a grudge against the lord of the manor sprouts like English ivy.
Now it’s up to Jessica and George to find the killer—or killers—before another corpse welcomes in the New Year….
Review:
This extremely well-written mystery is the 42nd in the Murder, She Wrote series, but the first that I’ve read; had I known how much I would enjoy this, I would have started reading this series sooner! Jessica Fletcher is the fictional character at the heart of these wonderful books who “writes” her adventures and the mysteries she has solved in first person. This approach has helped me quickly come to know Jessica and some of her journey.
In Death of a Blue Blood, Jessica travels to England for a New Year’s Eve ball at Castorbrook Castle with Lord and Lady Norrance, their family, and more than 100 of their friends and business associates. Jessica’s companion is Scotland Yard Detective Inspector George Sutherland, who she met years before when attending a mystery writer’s convention in London and she finds her mentor, Marjorie Ainsworth, dead in her room (‘Gin and Daggers’) They have stayed in touch over the years, and could easily be romantically involved if only they could figure out how to do so with the ‘pond’ between them.
Within moments of being shown to their rooms at the castle, Jessica looks out her window and sees a purple cloth in the garden below, then at the foot and leg belonging to the wearer of the purple. Jessica was “accidentally” locked out of the door she left propped open when racing to help the woman. Unfortunately, this important member of the household was already dead. Jessica analyzed the situation with George, who could assist the local inspectors. They were on hand, however, to hear the sniping and backbiting within the family over the family financial feud…as the tension of preparing for the ball intensified. Thus began the holiday; the local police continued interviewing all in the castle, with those in charge of the case actually attended the ball. They were too late to stop the death of Earl…and this time, George and Jessica will be in the thick of the investigation, as they were near the Earl when he died.
The author gives an excellent portrayal of the characters, especially Jessica, George, and how Jessica works through the clues she is able to see. The Earl’s family members were mysteries unto themselves; we catch glimpses of them occasionally in the beginning. As the ball progressed, one could see some of the true personalities of the sons and daughter. After the Earl’s death, the family sequesters themselves away from guests remaining at the castle. I very much enjoyed Jessica’s ease of conversing with almost anyone and draw them out, including some of the people in the village. It went beyond the ‘investigation’; she was genuinely interested in those she met.
The author portrays the setting expertly; descriptives were so detailed that, except in the moments that the cab and mobiles were used, it was as if one were seeing castle life in another century. I actually shook my head at one point to return to the present! The castle itself, the various meals, the village shops, and the proper English all contributed to that feeling. Another help was how the author could gently show how valuable the British sense of titles and authority is and to what degree that level of position and propriety played in the plot.
This mystery kept my attention from beginning to end. I couldn’t come up with the bad guy/ gal or the entire motive until Jessica asked questions that were more pointed based on the answers she received. I do like being able to puzzle out the whodunit and appreciated that I could figure it out shortly after Jessica did. The mystery was complex and the motives sad when considering the loss of lives and how that affected so many. Overall, I completely enjoyed Death of a Blue Blood and highly recommend it to fans of Jessica Fletcher and mystery lovers of all ages. This can be enjoyed by those who like the setting of an English countryside and writing that draws the reader in with suspense that builds throughout. This is not your grandma’s mystery series; Jessica Fletcher is definitely a 21st century thinker!
Murder, She Wrote: Death of a Blue Blood
Murder, She Wrote, Book #42
By Jessica Fletcher and Donald Bain
ISBN 9780451468260
Author’s website: www.donaldbain.com
Brought to you by OBS Reviewer Jeanie
Synopsis:
In the newest mystery in the USA Today bestselling series, Jessica Fletcher is invited to ring in the New Year with British aristocracy. Too bad someone’s about to end the life of the party….
Jessica Fletcher and her friend Scotland Yard detective inspector George Sutherland are invited to attend a New Year’s Eve Ball at Castorbrook Castle, thanks to her British publisher. Shortly after arriving in the idyllic English countryside, Jessica discovers the body of a lady’s maid in the garden.
While their host, Lord Norrance, his snobbish third wife, other members of the household, and party guests squabble over the tragic death in tight-lipped, perfectly mannered, thoroughly British style, family relations are strained as old wounds are reopened and cutting remarks are freely handed out. And that’s only during teatime!
As midnight beckons at the ball the next night, the earl offers a toast, complete with fireworks. But the merriment crashes to a halt when he falls ill and dies, apparently poisoned—and the number of suspects with a grudge against the lord of the manor sprouts like English ivy.
Now it’s up to Jessica and George to find the killer—or killers—before another corpse welcomes in the New Year….
Review:
This extremely well-written mystery is the 42nd in the Murder, She Wrote series, but the first that I’ve read; had I known how much I would enjoy this, I would have started reading this series sooner! Jessica Fletcher is the fictional character at the heart of these wonderful books who “writes” her adventures and the mysteries she has solved in first person. This approach has helped me quickly come to know Jessica and some of her journey.
In Death of a Blue Blood, Jessica travels to England for a New Year’s Eve ball at Castorbrook Castle with Lord and Lady Norrance, their family, and more than 100 of their friends and business associates. Jessica’s companion is Scotland Yard Detective Inspector George Sutherland, who she met years before when attending a mystery writer’s convention in London and she finds her mentor, Marjorie Ainsworth, dead in her room (‘Gin and Daggers’) They have stayed in touch over the years, and could easily be romantically involved if only they could figure out how to do so with the ‘pond’ between them.
Within moments of being shown to their rooms at the castle, Jessica looks out her window and sees a purple cloth in the garden below, then at the foot and leg belonging to the wearer of the purple. Jessica was “accidentally” locked out of the door she left propped open when racing to help the woman. Unfortunately, this important member of the household was already dead. Jessica analyzed the situation with George, who could assist the local inspectors. They were on hand, however, to hear the sniping and backbiting within the family over the family financial feud…as the tension of preparing for the ball intensified. Thus began the holiday; the local police continued interviewing all in the castle, with those in charge of the case actually attended the ball. They were too late to stop the death of Earl…and this time, George and Jessica will be in the thick of the investigation, as they were near the Earl when he died.
The author gives an excellent portrayal of the characters, especially Jessica, George, and how Jessica works through the clues she is able to see. The Earl’s family members were mysteries unto themselves; we catch glimpses of them occasionally in the beginning. As the ball progressed, one could see some of the true personalities of the sons and daughter. After the Earl’s death, the family sequesters themselves away from guests remaining at the castle. I very much enjoyed Jessica’s ease of conversing with almost anyone and draw them out, including some of the people in the village. It went beyond the ‘investigation’; she was genuinely interested in those she met.
The author portrays the setting expertly; descriptives were so detailed that, except in the moments that the cab and mobiles were used, it was as if one were seeing castle life in another century. I actually shook my head at one point to return to the present! The castle itself, the various meals, the village shops, and the proper English all contributed to that feeling. Another help was how the author could gently show how valuable the British sense of titles and authority is and to what degree that level of position and propriety played in the plot.
This mystery kept my attention from beginning to end. I couldn’t come up with the bad guy/ gal or the entire motive until Jessica asked questions that were more pointed based on the answers she received. I do like being able to puzzle out the whodunit and appreciated that I could figure it out shortly after Jessica did. The mystery was complex and the motives sad when considering the loss of lives and how that affected so many. Overall, I completely enjoyed Death of a Blue Blood and highly recommend it to fans of Jessica Fletcher and mystery lovers of all ages. This can be enjoyed by those who like the setting of an English countryside and writing that draws the reader in with suspense that builds throughout. This is not your grandma’s mystery series; Jessica Fletcher is definitely a 21st century thinker!
Read
August 9, 2021Uno sbocco direi inevitabile,che dopo la miliardesima replica degli episodi del telefilm mi lasciassi irretire da un nuovo capitolo delle avventure di Jessica,anche se le aspettative erano in realtà piuttosto basse,motivo per cui malgrado la curiosità mi sono per tanto tempo tenuta scrupolosamente alla larga dai "romanzi di Jessica Fletcher" che ogni tanto occhieggiavano qua e là.
Alla fine ci è voluta la seconda estate targata Covid per decidermi all'esperimento,e per quanto la lettura sia stata in effetti piuttosto deludente e banalotta,non è escluso che non rimanga isolata,in tempo di vacanze e di scarsa voglia di un impegno intellettuale eccessivo.
Alla fine ci è voluta la seconda estate targata Covid per decidermi all'esperimento,e per quanto la lettura sia stata in effetti piuttosto deludente e banalotta,non è escluso che non rimanga isolata,in tempo di vacanze e di scarsa voglia di un impegno intellettuale eccessivo.
July 24, 2021
This was exactly the palate cleanser I needed after a tense thriller and before I dive into a new family saga. Murder, She Wrote was one of my favorite shows as a child (that's probably not good in hindsight lol) so these books are great comfort reads for me. While I tend to prefer the books set in Cabot Cove, this one was a delight because it was in England and featured George Sutherland from Scotland Yard. I enjoyed the story overall and while it might be seen as somewhat predictable, that's part of the comfort for me.
January 4, 2025
Mystery writer Jessica Fletcher and her longtime friend Scotland Yard inspector George Sutherland are invited to a New Year’s Eve ball at Castorbrook Castle in Death of a Blue Blood. As usual when Jessica is around, murder presents itself. On the first day of their arrival, Jessica and George stumble upon the deceased body of the former governess and current lady’s maid to Lady Norrance. Although their help is shunned by the local authorities at first, Jessica‘s natural sleuthing abilities and George’s keen observation skills cannot be contained as more intrigue occurs at the ball.
August 10, 2019
I could only bring myself to skim the last few pages of this one being the first of the six on this series I have read, to disappoint. The start was very good then the American/ English juxtaposition became too much for me. In other books the possible romance between a Chief Inspector at Scotland Yard and Jessica Fletcher, though in the background, never really played a part. The opposite is the case in this publication.
May 21, 2021
If you enjoyed the TV series, "Murder, She Wrote" you'll probably enjoy Death of a Blue Blood. Bain captures the tone and conventions of the tv show well.
It works well as a stand-alone. While there are several passing references to a specific episode and, possibly, some earlier books, Death of a Blue Blood works as an entry-point to the world of Jessica Fletcher.
It works well as a stand-alone. While there are several passing references to a specific episode and, possibly, some earlier books, Death of a Blue Blood works as an entry-point to the world of Jessica Fletcher.
August 14, 2022
I loved that George Sutherland made an appearance in this book. The setting was also right up my street, although I felt the “twist” was a little too predictable. It’s similar to other plots you’d expect from a story set in English high society.
August 30, 2022
Another good Jessica Fletcher murder. This one in a castle. Didn't take Jessica long to find the body either. Wasn't sure it was a murder at first. Then more things happen. Jessica puts the clues together and figures it out.
January 29, 2024
Jessica and George are invited to a New Year's Eve ball taking place in a castle. A death occurs almost immediately upon their arrival and is initially supposed to be a terrible accident, but Jessica has suspicions.
August 28, 2017
I love these books SO MUCH! Warm, comforting, and welcoming...they're like an invitation from Ms. Fletcher to have a slice of apple pie in her kitchen.
A fun and intriguing mystery that had me guessing until the end. Highly recommend. I also loved the Downton Abbey feel. Superb.
A fun and intriguing mystery that had me guessing until the end. Highly recommend. I also loved the Downton Abbey feel. Superb.
October 26, 2017
A bit thin, but perhaps to be expected when the author herself is a fictional character. Fun, though, to wander through and English country estate owned by an earl.
December 17, 2017
Good cozy story. Great setting - a British Castle holding a New Years Eve Ball, with several interesting characters including Jessica's 'love interest' George.
January 28, 2018
Murder in an English Castle - Usual Mrs Fletcher shenanigans.
March 27, 2018
Another fun Murder She Wrote novel.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews