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Ryli Sinclair Mystery #1
Picture Perfect Murder
Ryli Sinclair had no idea moonlighting as the forensic photographer for the Granville Police Department would put her in the direct path of a crazed killer. Determined to capture the murderer before she's next in line, Ryli enlists the help of her best friend, Paige, and her elderly great-aunt Shirley, a former private investigator. If only the handsome chief of police, Garrett Kimble, wasn't hampering her every move.
211 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2015
820 people are currently reading
529 people want to read
About the author
Jenna St. James
139 books278 followersJenna writes in the genre of traditional cozy, paranormal cozy, and romantic comedy. Her humorous characters and stories revolve around over-the-top family members, creative murders, and there's always a positive element of the military in her stories. Jenna currently lives in Missouri with her fiancé, step-daughter, Nova Scotia duck tolling retriever dog, Brownie, and her tuxedo-cat, Whiskey. She is a former court reporter turned educator turned full-time writer. She has a Master’s degree in Special Education and an Education Specialist degree in Curriculum and Instruction. She also spent twelve years in full-time ministry.
When she’s not writing, Jenna likes to attend beer and wine tastings, go antiquing, visit craft festivals, and spend time with her family and friends. You can friend request her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorjennas... or catch her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/authorjennas.... Check out her website at http://www.jennastjames.com/. Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter so you can keep up with the latest releases!
When she’s not writing, Jenna likes to attend beer and wine tastings, go antiquing, visit craft festivals, and spend time with her family and friends. You can friend request her on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorjennas... or catch her on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/authorjennas.... Check out her website at http://www.jennastjames.com/. Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter so you can keep up with the latest releases!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 139 reviews
September 4, 2017
Ryli Sinclair is a 28 year-old woman who is moonlighting as a forensic photographer, and has to go to the scene of a local woman named Vera Graver (this is a small town) who's been murdered.
Ryli takes it upon herself to investigate the crime and see if she can discover who the murderer is, and in doing so, enlists the help of her best friend Paige and her great-Aunt Shirley. It helps that Aunt Shirley is a retired private investigator. During the course of her investigation, Ryli finds herself a target of the unknown killer.
I particularly loved the personality of Aunt Shirley, as well as the strong chemistry between Ryli and the Garrett the Sheriff. Also, the personality of Ryli is fantastic- there's something to be said for utilizing her particular personality in a plot like this, especially with her refusal to stop investigating the murders.
Overall, this was a quick read and I look forward to the next installment of the series.
Thanks to Netgalley.
Ryli takes it upon herself to investigate the crime and see if she can discover who the murderer is, and in doing so, enlists the help of her best friend Paige and her great-Aunt Shirley. It helps that Aunt Shirley is a retired private investigator. During the course of her investigation, Ryli finds herself a target of the unknown killer.
I particularly loved the personality of Aunt Shirley, as well as the strong chemistry between Ryli and the Garrett the Sheriff. Also, the personality of Ryli is fantastic- there's something to be said for utilizing her particular personality in a plot like this, especially with her refusal to stop investigating the murders.
Overall, this was a quick read and I look forward to the next installment of the series.
Thanks to Netgalley.
September 15, 2017
Not a picture perfect book...
This should have been labelled as 'christian' and not as 'cozy mystery'. i couldn't relate to the story or the characters at all. The church was the most imporant place in the story and apparently preachers are not supposed to drink? There was way too much talk about clothes and food and Ryli is not very witty or intelligent.
This should have been labelled as 'christian' and not as 'cozy mystery'. i couldn't relate to the story or the characters at all. The church was the most imporant place in the story and apparently preachers are not supposed to drink? There was way too much talk about clothes and food and Ryli is not very witty or intelligent.
March 13, 2018
I purchased Picture Perfect Murder on Amazon.ca last week and I was very pleased to read this cozy mystery. It was a very good read. I loved the main character, her best friend, her brother and her cat. Her love interest was a good one and makes the story interesting but her great aunt truly steals the show. I was not expecting the cozy to take the turns it did and I did guess the killer early on but Jenna St. James did keep me second guessing myself throughout the book. I would be very interested to read the other 6 books in this series. I am very glad I bought this cozy and think you will find it a good read also.
June 4, 2017
What a ride!!!! I had so much fun reading this quirky mystery. It is probably a little bit too descriptive to call it a cozy but it is not far off. Great characters, especially the eccentric aunt Shirley, and a fast paced mystery are making for a very entertaining and highly recommended read. I am so glad I discovered this new to me author and will read her other books as well!
February 4, 2020
A great introduction to a new (to me) series with great characters, lots of humor and of course a murder or two tossed into the mix! I literally laughed out loud as I listened to this book on audio. Aunt Shirley was a total crack up and I loved that the setting is just over the state line from me in an area that I am very familiar with. I felt like I was hearing about people I know. In fact so much so, that I had a hard time not picturing different people I know as the characters even though they didn't exactly fit the description, the characters' personalities were just so real to me. I can't wait to see what antics are coming in future books and thrilled to have another series to read!
September 8, 2017
Ryli is a photographer working part time for both the local newspaper and the police, or so she is described. I don't think she did any photographing - or work, for that matter - throughout the story. When the town's school superintendent is brutally murdered, Ryli goes around with her friend and her aunt asking everyone where they were when it happened. Meanwhile she lusts after the hunky police chief. There is no explanation for why she chooses to do this "investigating" and she fails miserably at it, putting herself in danger not once but twice in quick succession by failing to see the obvious attempts the murderer is making on her life. The cover bills it as a "daring and hilarious cozy mystery." It was nowhere close to daring or hilarious, although I think I smiled once or twice while reading it. It was, however, a cozy mystery with the usual elements: female non-professional protagonist, lots of talk about the women's outfits, cooking, women's outfits, interior decorating, women's shoes, a cute pet, yet more women's outfits, and zero knowledge of police procedure. The one difference from the usual cozy, however, is that here Ryli does not turn out to be the strong, confident woman who solves the mystery; she turns out to be a blubbering incompetent who has to be rescued by the hunky chief.
The best I can say about this is that it was inoffensive and worth the 99 cents I paid for it. It got me through a dull day when my electric service was off for maintenance. Lovers of good writing are warned to stay away. The writing is ham-handed, cliche-ridden, and in need of a good proofreading.
The best I can say about this is that it was inoffensive and worth the 99 cents I paid for it. It got me through a dull day when my electric service was off for maintenance. Lovers of good writing are warned to stay away. The writing is ham-handed, cliche-ridden, and in need of a good proofreading.
September 4, 2017
While moonlighting as a police photographer Ryli captures the scene of the murder of a well-known local citizen. Curiosity as to who committed this heinous crime leads to Ryli enlisting the help of her best friend Paige and her elderly Great-Aunt Shirley, a slightly off-kilter and elderly former PI. The trio begin to dig and soon appear to hit a nerve with the murderer. It isn’t long before Ryli receives a gruesome warning after a second victim is discovered. Ryli seems to be a third target. With fearless (reckless) abandon the three women track down clues and make false accusations.
If you enjoy Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series this is the book for you. It is laced with humor and great characters. This one made me laugh out loud. I love that Ryli doesn’t let anyone stand in her way while searches for clues. The characters in this book are engaging. I often felt like they were people I know. Aunt Shirley’s back story with Garrett was terrific. I read it to my husband and he winced at some of the descriptions. The book has enough details to truly paint a scene. I am looking forward to the re-release of book two and I'm recommending it to everyone.
If you enjoy Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum series this is the book for you. It is laced with humor and great characters. This one made me laugh out loud. I love that Ryli doesn’t let anyone stand in her way while searches for clues. The characters in this book are engaging. I often felt like they were people I know. Aunt Shirley’s back story with Garrett was terrific. I read it to my husband and he winced at some of the descriptions. The book has enough details to truly paint a scene. I am looking forward to the re-release of book two and I'm recommending it to everyone.
July 29, 2019
Picture Perfect Murder is the first book in the Ryli Sinclair series. I'd call it an edgier cozy. There are some descriptions that are a bit more graphic than I typically encounter in a cozy.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Aunt Shirley was a hoot. I loved Ryli and Garrett and I look forward to seeing how their relationship evolves. The small-town atmosphere was relatable and I'm already looking forward to my next visit. The mystery had just enough twists to keep it interesting.
I purchased this book on Amazon and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Aunt Shirley was a hoot. I loved Ryli and Garrett and I look forward to seeing how their relationship evolves. The small-town atmosphere was relatable and I'm already looking forward to my next visit. The mystery had just enough twists to keep it interesting.
I purchased this book on Amazon and am voluntarily sharing my honest review.
February 13, 2025
Cosy and Bloody.
I loved the gory details mixed with the classic comfort feelings typical of the genre. The pace is good and the aunt is a hoot, already on book two.
I loved the gory details mixed with the classic comfort feelings typical of the genre. The pace is good and the aunt is a hoot, already on book two.
August 11, 2020
Cute
I'm so glad that I read this book, has great characters and a real nice story With some interesting characters That you wonder who is leading whom
I'm so glad that I read this book, has great characters and a real nice story With some interesting characters That you wonder who is leading whom
January 17, 2025
This book confused me, it didn't help that I barely had an understanding of the characters by the end of the book.
When Garrett (the sheriff and potential love interest is introduced), the MC (Ryli) states that she's interested and is turning up the heat. They've known each other for a year. I'm expecting her to go over the top with flirting, boob thrusting, and hip shaking. Instead, he gives her a meaningful stare and they're lip locking.
HUH?
Then, she waits for him in his office and it's clear that she knows nothing about him and has barely been there. So she snoops around and finds a photo of him with some chick. That vibes with her trying to get his attention. Except, he's kissing her again and it's clear they have some sort of relationship.
WHAT?
Add to that, she decides she's going to solve this mystery just to show him that she can. Can what? Get herself killed? Mess up his investigation? Muddy the waters so a good attorney can get the murderer released on a technicality? Seriously, you'd think the author would have come up with a better reason. This one was pretty lame. She's getting death threats and she keeps trudging on, dragging her elderly great-aunt and best friend with her just to....show him! WTAF?
When she had a blubbering melt down over somebody trying to poison her, I rolled my eyes in annoyance. WTF did she think was going to happen when she decided to stick her nose into a murder mystery just to "show him"? Did she stop after that? OFC NOT! Because then that would mean that she actually had common sense and a brain. She had neither, so she kept going. The Sherriff had to rescue her dumb @$$ in the end and instead of learning from it, she decided that she liked the "taste" she'd gotten of the danger and wanted more. SIGH. I have zero patience for characters like this.
Also, the author may have well put a flashing neon sign over the bad "person" when they were introduced. It was that obvious as was the reason why.
As if all of this isn't bad enough, the characters are flat, shallow, and underdeveloped. I know more about the interior of the houses than I know about the characters. I know nothing about the MC other than she's an idiot who doesn't deserve to live. I know more about Garrett and I actually like him and feel sorry for him that he has to deal with her. Run, dude, RUN!
Blergh.
Horrible horrible book. I'd give it a 1-star rating but I actually finished it. Not interested in reading another word about this stupid, inane, immature character.
When Garrett (the sheriff and potential love interest is introduced), the MC (Ryli) states that she's interested and is turning up the heat. They've known each other for a year. I'm expecting her to go over the top with flirting, boob thrusting, and hip shaking. Instead, he gives her a meaningful stare and they're lip locking.
HUH?
Then, she waits for him in his office and it's clear that she knows nothing about him and has barely been there. So she snoops around and finds a photo of him with some chick. That vibes with her trying to get his attention. Except, he's kissing her again and it's clear they have some sort of relationship.
WHAT?
Add to that, she decides she's going to solve this mystery just to show him that she can. Can what? Get herself killed? Mess up his investigation? Muddy the waters so a good attorney can get the murderer released on a technicality? Seriously, you'd think the author would have come up with a better reason. This one was pretty lame. She's getting death threats and she keeps trudging on, dragging her elderly great-aunt and best friend with her just to....show him! WTAF?
When she had a blubbering melt down over somebody trying to poison her, I rolled my eyes in annoyance. WTF did she think was going to happen when she decided to stick her nose into a murder mystery just to "show him"? Did she stop after that? OFC NOT! Because then that would mean that she actually had common sense and a brain. She had neither, so she kept going. The Sherriff had to rescue her dumb @$$ in the end and instead of learning from it, she decided that she liked the "taste" she'd gotten of the danger and wanted more. SIGH. I have zero patience for characters like this.
Also, the author may have well put a flashing neon sign over the bad "person" when they were introduced. It was that obvious as was the reason why.
As if all of this isn't bad enough, the characters are flat, shallow, and underdeveloped. I know more about the interior of the houses than I know about the characters. I know nothing about the MC other than she's an idiot who doesn't deserve to live. I know more about Garrett and I actually like him and feel sorry for him that he has to deal with her. Run, dude, RUN!
Blergh.
Horrible horrible book. I'd give it a 1-star rating but I actually finished it. Not interested in reading another word about this stupid, inane, immature character.
May 17, 2016
Good cozy mystery
I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery. The plot was well thought out and the characters were well developed. I look forward to reading more in this series.
I enjoyed reading this cozy mystery. The plot was well thought out and the characters were well developed. I look forward to reading more in this series.
February 6, 2018
A enjoyable cozy with a chick-lit/romance overtone.
April 1, 2021
Love !
I really love this series! Aunt Shirley is my hero. Jenna is such an amazing author. I recommend this series and all other books by this author
I really love this series! Aunt Shirley is my hero. Jenna is such an amazing author. I recommend this series and all other books by this author
August 28, 2017
Title: Picture Perfect Murder - Ryli Sinclair Mystery Book 1
Author: Jenna St. James
Publisher: Summer Prescott Books
Published: 8-16-2017
Pages: 225
Genre: Women's Fiction
Sub-Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Women sleuths, Suspense, Cozy Mystery, Humor, Culinary Mystery, Crafts & Hobbies,
ISBN: 9781974651634
ASIN: B074W7BP11
Reviewed For NetGalley and Summer Prescott Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Ryli Sinclair had no idea that moonlighting as a Forensic Photographer for the Granville Police Department would put her directly in the path of a crazed killer. Determined to identify the murderer before she becomes the next victim, Ryli enlists the help of her best friend, Paige, and her elderly great-aunt, Shirley, a former private investigator. From the driver’s seat of Aunt Shirley’s coveted ’65 Falcon, Ryli and the girls are hot on the trail of the murderer…and hilarity ensues, as the ridiculously handsome chief of police, Garrett Kimble, throws stumbling blocks in their path at every turn.
Ryli Sinclair might be used to photographing dead bodies, but not so much finding out who killed them and why. Ryli, Paige and Shirley offer a comedy of events that will leave you laughing out loud. From beginning to end you will be kept enthralled in the story.
My rating of "Picture Perfect Murder - Ryli Sinclair Mystery Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074W7BP11/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pict...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
Author: Jenna St. James
Publisher: Summer Prescott Books
Published: 8-16-2017
Pages: 225
Genre: Women's Fiction
Sub-Genre: Mystery, Thriller, Women sleuths, Suspense, Cozy Mystery, Humor, Culinary Mystery, Crafts & Hobbies,
ISBN: 9781974651634
ASIN: B074W7BP11
Reviewed For NetGalley and Summer Prescott Books
Reviewer: DelAnne
Rating: 4.75 Stars
Ryli Sinclair had no idea that moonlighting as a Forensic Photographer for the Granville Police Department would put her directly in the path of a crazed killer. Determined to identify the murderer before she becomes the next victim, Ryli enlists the help of her best friend, Paige, and her elderly great-aunt, Shirley, a former private investigator. From the driver’s seat of Aunt Shirley’s coveted ’65 Falcon, Ryli and the girls are hot on the trail of the murderer…and hilarity ensues, as the ridiculously handsome chief of police, Garrett Kimble, throws stumbling blocks in their path at every turn.
Ryli Sinclair might be used to photographing dead bodies, but not so much finding out who killed them and why. Ryli, Paige and Shirley offer a comedy of events that will leave you laughing out loud. From beginning to end you will be kept enthralled in the story.
My rating of "Picture Perfect Murder - Ryli Sinclair Mystery Book 1" is 4.75 out of 5 stars.
Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074W7BP11/...
B&N Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pict...
Books-A-Million Link: Not Available
Google Play Link: Not Available
Indigo Link: Not Available
Kobo Link: Not Available
GoodReads Link: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/3...
The Reading Room Link: https://www.facebook.com/permalink.ph...
Twitter Link: https://twitter.com/DelAnne531/status...
October 19, 2017
Picture Perfect Murder by Jenna St. James is the first book in the Ryli Sinclair Mystery series. Ryli Sinclair didn't expect to end up back in her small hometown of Granville, or to be working as a reporter for the local paper. On Ryli's first day moonlighting as a forensic photographer, the body of Dr. Vera Garver is discovered with her heart missing. The list of suspects is a long one with everyone in town having a motive for murdering the unlikable local school superintendent. The handsome new chief, Garrett Kimble, tells her to leave the investigation to him, but surely a few journalistic questions wouldn't hurt? When Ryli begins receiving threats from the killer, she teams up with her Great-Aunt Shirley and her best friend, Paige, to find answers before she's next.
Jenna St. James puts a fresh spin on the cozy mystery genre, placing gruesome murders, a brazen great-aunt, and flirty fun in this upbeat and chaotic adventure. Ryli is a sincere and sassy reporter who decides to investigate the murder, and drags her best friend into the sleuthing. She's the sort of person that you'd want to be friends with. Her great-aunt is an enigma, with the gruffness and no nonsense personality of a hard-boiled detective. Some of the best scenes include Ryli investigating with the help of Paige and Great-Aunt Shirley as they get into a bit of comedic trouble. Shirley is brilliantly written and brings a fun energy to every scene. St. James captures the essence of what it means to be in a small town, from the gossiping women getting their hair done to how everyone knows everyone's business. Picture Perfect Murder is a unique take on a cozy mystery that never fades on the charm, with humor, sparkling characters, and a lot of spunk. A must-read!
Jenna St. James puts a fresh spin on the cozy mystery genre, placing gruesome murders, a brazen great-aunt, and flirty fun in this upbeat and chaotic adventure. Ryli is a sincere and sassy reporter who decides to investigate the murder, and drags her best friend into the sleuthing. She's the sort of person that you'd want to be friends with. Her great-aunt is an enigma, with the gruffness and no nonsense personality of a hard-boiled detective. Some of the best scenes include Ryli investigating with the help of Paige and Great-Aunt Shirley as they get into a bit of comedic trouble. Shirley is brilliantly written and brings a fun energy to every scene. St. James captures the essence of what it means to be in a small town, from the gossiping women getting their hair done to how everyone knows everyone's business. Picture Perfect Murder is a unique take on a cozy mystery that never fades on the charm, with humor, sparkling characters, and a lot of spunk. A must-read!
October 16, 2017
Full Review On My Blog The Great Book Escape
Do you know the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"?, unless you live under a rock, I am sure you have. This is a perfect example, the cover for this cosy mystery could be better, but as is with many cosy mysteries, it has a cheesy cover.
After my most recent cosy mystery read, I will honestly say I was apprehensive going in to this book. To my pleasant surprise, there was no need to be. From chapter one, St. James had me in her hooks and I and thankful for it! This my dear readers, is an enjoyable cosy mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat, laughing out loud (literally), and not wanting to put it down even though my eyes were protesting. Some hours later (I have kids to tend too, so as much as I would have loved to binge uninterrupted, I did not have 4 hours of "free time"). With that said, I am so happy with this book and I give it a solid 4 star rating.
Now onto the book! Right away we meet Ryli Sinclair, small town (isn't it funny how so many cosy mysteries take place in a small town?) journalist and part time forensic photographer for the local police department, and police Chief Garrett Kimble. Now, you don't have to be a genius to see the foreshadowing of a possible romance between the two. We also meet Paige, Ryli's best friend, Matt (the brother), Aunt Shirley (bad ass great aunt who I love so much because she is freaking hilarious and I wish to be like her in my old age. YES), and a few other folks....
Thank you Netgalley, Summer Prescott Books, and Jenna St. James for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Do you know the saying, "Don't judge a book by its cover"?, unless you live under a rock, I am sure you have. This is a perfect example, the cover for this cosy mystery could be better, but as is with many cosy mysteries, it has a cheesy cover.
After my most recent cosy mystery read, I will honestly say I was apprehensive going in to this book. To my pleasant surprise, there was no need to be. From chapter one, St. James had me in her hooks and I and thankful for it! This my dear readers, is an enjoyable cosy mystery that kept me on the edge of my seat, laughing out loud (literally), and not wanting to put it down even though my eyes were protesting. Some hours later (I have kids to tend too, so as much as I would have loved to binge uninterrupted, I did not have 4 hours of "free time"). With that said, I am so happy with this book and I give it a solid 4 star rating.
Now onto the book! Right away we meet Ryli Sinclair, small town (isn't it funny how so many cosy mysteries take place in a small town?) journalist and part time forensic photographer for the local police department, and police Chief Garrett Kimble. Now, you don't have to be a genius to see the foreshadowing of a possible romance between the two. We also meet Paige, Ryli's best friend, Matt (the brother), Aunt Shirley (bad ass great aunt who I love so much because she is freaking hilarious and I wish to be like her in my old age. YES), and a few other folks....
Thank you Netgalley, Summer Prescott Books, and Jenna St. James for an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2020
This was a well written story with developed characters, and a good bit of humor.
Pro's:
Solid characters, strong plot line, a good bit of humor, and a nice mix of red herrings.
Con's:
I originally took two stars off due to the amount of romance in this story. It should be classified as a Chick-Lit or a Rom-Com.
While it is a good mystery, at least 45%+ of the story concentrated on the romance of the characters instead of the main story being focused on the mystery and investigation itself.
I did add one star back on due to the amount of humor.
Ryli Sinclair is a part time Newspaper Journalist, and part time Forensic Photographer for the local P.D.
The police chief is Ryli's not so secret crush who gets extremely irritated at her for sticking her nose into his investigation, where it's not needed or wanted.
Her assistant nosy helpers are her best friend since childhood, who seems to have a better head on her shoulders than Ryli, but is also consumed by her own romantic tangles and uncertainties with Ryli's brother, whom she has had a crush on since childhood.
Her other helper is her crazy great-aunt Shirley, who is a retired private investigator and is now living in an independent assisted care home.
This was a decent first story, and I will read at least one more to see if I will carry on with this series. It was a fairly quick paced story with lots of humor.
Pro's:
Solid characters, strong plot line, a good bit of humor, and a nice mix of red herrings.
Con's:
I originally took two stars off due to the amount of romance in this story. It should be classified as a Chick-Lit or a Rom-Com.
While it is a good mystery, at least 45%+ of the story concentrated on the romance of the characters instead of the main story being focused on the mystery and investigation itself.
I did add one star back on due to the amount of humor.
Ryli Sinclair is a part time Newspaper Journalist, and part time Forensic Photographer for the local P.D.
The police chief is Ryli's not so secret crush who gets extremely irritated at her for sticking her nose into his investigation, where it's not needed or wanted.
Her assistant nosy helpers are her best friend since childhood, who seems to have a better head on her shoulders than Ryli, but is also consumed by her own romantic tangles and uncertainties with Ryli's brother, whom she has had a crush on since childhood.
Her other helper is her crazy great-aunt Shirley, who is a retired private investigator and is now living in an independent assisted care home.
This was a decent first story, and I will read at least one more to see if I will carry on with this series. It was a fairly quick paced story with lots of humor.
January 21, 2020
I enjoyed book two in this series so much that I had to go back and start at the beginning. So glad I did this book was just as funny as the other book and I enjoyed them immensely. The mystery was good, with plenty of suspects and the love interest kept the story interesting.I just love the characters, especially Aunt Shirley what a hoot. If you are a fan of Jana DeLeon's Miss Fortune series then this is the series for you .
Ryli trying to pay her bills is doing two jobs. The first is as a reporter for the local newspaper but it is the second one which is about to make her life interesting, that of crime scene photographer. After taking photos of a dead body Ryli can't help but ask questions in town, she know everyone and why wouldn't she join in with the local gossip. Okay she might know more about the crime scene than the average gossip but should that really put her on a killer's radar. Obviously it has because when she receives the cut out heart belonging to the victim even she must admit to being in trouble. When police chief Garrett also warns her to stay out of it, Ryli does the one thing she can do turns to her friend and aunt for help to stop a killer before she becomes the next murder that needs investigating.
I really like the narrator and think she does an excellent job with the characters making them fun and likeable, which turns a great story even better.
Ryli trying to pay her bills is doing two jobs. The first is as a reporter for the local newspaper but it is the second one which is about to make her life interesting, that of crime scene photographer. After taking photos of a dead body Ryli can't help but ask questions in town, she know everyone and why wouldn't she join in with the local gossip. Okay she might know more about the crime scene than the average gossip but should that really put her on a killer's radar. Obviously it has because when she receives the cut out heart belonging to the victim even she must admit to being in trouble. When police chief Garrett also warns her to stay out of it, Ryli does the one thing she can do turns to her friend and aunt for help to stop a killer before she becomes the next murder that needs investigating.
I really like the narrator and think she does an excellent job with the characters making them fun and likeable, which turns a great story even better.
October 16, 2017
Humorous cozy mystery with a touch of romance.
Ryli Jo Sinclair is a reporter for her small hometown newspaper and moonlights as the town's forensic photographer. Ryli is intrigued by the new police chief, Garrett Kimble, who appears not to reciprocate her attention. She is called in to photograph the corpse of Dr. Vera Garver, whose heart and fingertips have been removed. She decides to investigate the crime herself with the help of her best friend Paige and her Aunt Shirley, a former private investigator who now lives in a nursing home. Aunt Shirley is hilarious and provides welcome comic relief. Since Dr. Garver is hated by almost everyone in town, there is no shortage of suspects to investigate.
The mystery in Picture Perfect Murder is well plotted and the characters are inviting. While I eventually guessed the murderer, it was only after Ryli and her team had eliminated almost everyone else.
If you like humorous cozy mysteries, you can't go wrong in picking up Picture Perfect Murder. It is also currently available in Kindle Unlimited along with the second and third volume in the series. 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher, Summer Prescott Books, and netgalley for a free review copy.
Ryli Jo Sinclair is a reporter for her small hometown newspaper and moonlights as the town's forensic photographer. Ryli is intrigued by the new police chief, Garrett Kimble, who appears not to reciprocate her attention. She is called in to photograph the corpse of Dr. Vera Garver, whose heart and fingertips have been removed. She decides to investigate the crime herself with the help of her best friend Paige and her Aunt Shirley, a former private investigator who now lives in a nursing home. Aunt Shirley is hilarious and provides welcome comic relief. Since Dr. Garver is hated by almost everyone in town, there is no shortage of suspects to investigate.
The mystery in Picture Perfect Murder is well plotted and the characters are inviting. While I eventually guessed the murderer, it was only after Ryli and her team had eliminated almost everyone else.
If you like humorous cozy mysteries, you can't go wrong in picking up Picture Perfect Murder. It is also currently available in Kindle Unlimited along with the second and third volume in the series. 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher, Summer Prescott Books, and netgalley for a free review copy.
October 25, 2017
Written by Jenna St. James, this novel follows Ryli, a local journalist and photographer, and she tries to solve a murder that she is called in to photograph. And dates the Chief of Police. And hangs out with her friend and crazy Aunt. Oh, and she has a cat.
That description is a good way to describe how this book went. I wanted to like it, but there were so many random things thrown in, the story was inconstant, and the characters weren't believable. Okay, some of the side characters were. But not the main.
There were so many unexplored threads, and the pacing made no sense, neither did the characters reactions. At first I thought that the Chief and Ryli, a.k.a. Sin by him, weren't dating. Didn't figure out that they were together. But, then they are together, have been for a while, and everyone is waiting for them to sleep together but they never do but everyone insinuates that they are...
This just wasn't a good book. Wanting to like it doesn't make it good.
It is a cozy mystery, all right, with terribly unbelievable characters. Or, at least, characters that don't make sense. If you are absolutely looking for something to read, I guess you can give this a try. I don't recommend.
*I was given a review copy in exchange for an honest review*
That description is a good way to describe how this book went. I wanted to like it, but there were so many random things thrown in, the story was inconstant, and the characters weren't believable. Okay, some of the side characters were. But not the main.
There were so many unexplored threads, and the pacing made no sense, neither did the characters reactions. At first I thought that the Chief and Ryli, a.k.a. Sin by him, weren't dating. Didn't figure out that they were together. But, then they are together, have been for a while, and everyone is waiting for them to sleep together but they never do but everyone insinuates that they are...
This just wasn't a good book. Wanting to like it doesn't make it good.
It is a cozy mystery, all right, with terribly unbelievable characters. Or, at least, characters that don't make sense. If you are absolutely looking for something to read, I guess you can give this a try. I don't recommend.
*I was given a review copy in exchange for an honest review*
March 12, 2018
I Liked Everything About This Mystery
This book had me laughing at the crazy hijinks of Ryli Sinclair and her Aunt Shirley. Together they are a force to be reckoned with. Aunt Shirley is somewhere in her 70's but never admits her age. She was a Private Investigator at a time when women were expected to be more traditional. She wound up at Oak Manor after she started a small fire outside and was trying to put it out with the garden hose. She was surprised by the police whom she started to squirt with the hose and then tried to fight him off of her when he tried to subdue her. She was in a jail cell half dressed and when Ryli showed up she said, "I accidentally forgot my pants."
There is plenty of humor in this small town mystery. Ryli works for the town newspaper and has a need to investigate. The more Chief Garrett Kimble tells her to stay out of his investigations, the more she wants to solve the crime. There is also the beginning of a romance between the two.
This is a well written, fast paced story that has well developed characters. The murders are bazaar but believable. The reveal is amusing even though Ryli is in serious danger from the killer. I liked everything about this book and can recommend it to any reader who likes to be entertained.
This book had me laughing at the crazy hijinks of Ryli Sinclair and her Aunt Shirley. Together they are a force to be reckoned with. Aunt Shirley is somewhere in her 70's but never admits her age. She was a Private Investigator at a time when women were expected to be more traditional. She wound up at Oak Manor after she started a small fire outside and was trying to put it out with the garden hose. She was surprised by the police whom she started to squirt with the hose and then tried to fight him off of her when he tried to subdue her. She was in a jail cell half dressed and when Ryli showed up she said, "I accidentally forgot my pants."
There is plenty of humor in this small town mystery. Ryli works for the town newspaper and has a need to investigate. The more Chief Garrett Kimble tells her to stay out of his investigations, the more she wants to solve the crime. There is also the beginning of a romance between the two.
This is a well written, fast paced story that has well developed characters. The murders are bazaar but believable. The reveal is amusing even though Ryli is in serious danger from the killer. I liked everything about this book and can recommend it to any reader who likes to be entertained.
June 8, 2020
I laughed so hard at some of the scenes in this book that it almost made me forget that it technically wasn't a typical cozy. Not in a super bad way though, the murder scenes were a tad more graphic, but it honestly didn't gross me out like a thriller would have, because there were too many other entertaining and funny parts to take my mind off it. Ryli was such a crazy character and oh my goodness, that Aunt Shirley was a hoot! It's more of a cozy with an edge. It has all the regular qualities but a little more on steroids lol. I thought it was cool that Ryli's curmudgeon of a boss had a fun wife who went sleuthing with Ryli, Aunt Shirley and Ryli's bestie, Paige.
I had my suspicions about who the killer was, and it turned out that I was right. Wow what a showdown! I don't know how Ryli got out of that one alive, and this is only the first book. Ryli was good at taking care of herself when she needed to. I did like her relationship with her mom. For once, a mom character is kind of cool in a cute way. She's not overly criticizing, and her own little romance with a local older guy was kind of adorable.
I had my suspicions about who the killer was, and it turned out that I was right. Wow what a showdown! I don't know how Ryli got out of that one alive, and this is only the first book. Ryli was good at taking care of herself when she needed to. I did like her relationship with her mom. For once, a mom character is kind of cool in a cute way. She's not overly criticizing, and her own little romance with a local older guy was kind of adorable.
November 11, 2017
So far this has been my month for clueless heroines with lots of pluck and gumption who keep finding themselves in deep doo--, um, trouble as they flout not just their intrepid professional law enforcement friends and boyfriends but also common sense as the wade blithely and blindly into situations for which they are ill trained and not particularly suited. In Ryli's case, for a photographer she's not necessarily even that routinely observant (although she does have her moments). But she WANTS to be and she TRIES to be as she stumbles from one "situation" to another. I felt a bit as if I were reading a sequel as references to earlier incidents kept popping up but, no, this is the first of this series. And the Fannie Flagg-esque cast could quite likely combine forces to become as good as they think they are in future episodes. There is a lot of basic talent among the crew of amateur sleuths. Overall, an enjoyable meander through several fairly gruesome murders! And, yes, I figured out "whodunnit" before Ryli or her boyfriend did. The clues were there . . .
March 6, 2018
I really and truly enjoyed this book. It was a great blend of mystery, humor and romance which are the top three things I look for in a book.
Ryli is a journalist for the local paper in her little hometown and she also works as a photographer for the police department to make ends meet. And this is how she gets interested in the grusome killing of a prominent town member. Along with her aunt, who claims she was once a successful PI and her best friend, she tries to fing out who the killer is and becomes a target herself.
Sheriff Garrett is so hot Ryli is having a hard time controling herself around him while he constantly tries to stop her from getting involved in the investigation.
It started pretty grusome and I was very suprised since this should be cozy mystery but author managed to find a perfect balance between the two, with gory details but still light enough. I also enjoyed quirky but lovable characters and clever dialogue.
Highly recommended.
Ryli is a journalist for the local paper in her little hometown and she also works as a photographer for the police department to make ends meet. And this is how she gets interested in the grusome killing of a prominent town member. Along with her aunt, who claims she was once a successful PI and her best friend, she tries to fing out who the killer is and becomes a target herself.
Sheriff Garrett is so hot Ryli is having a hard time controling herself around him while he constantly tries to stop her from getting involved in the investigation.
It started pretty grusome and I was very suprised since this should be cozy mystery but author managed to find a perfect balance between the two, with gory details but still light enough. I also enjoyed quirky but lovable characters and clever dialogue.
Highly recommended.
September 14, 2019
I was given an audio version of Picture Perfect Murder by Jenna St. James which is the first in the Ryli Sinclair Mystery. In the story we are introduced to Ryli Sinclair who is a local newspaper writer and the forensic photographer when needed. Her boyfriend Garret, is the police chief so you know that Ryli is going to get involved in any investigation. While listening to this story I laughed so hard at some of the innuendos, the sarcasm, and best all the voices portrayed in the story.
While Ryli is photographing at the screen of her first crime where Dr. Graves is killed, she gets involved trying to solve the murder. Someone tries to scare Ryli by sending her Dr Graves tongue and some of her tips of fingers, which doesn't stop Ryli, her best friend Paige or Aunt Shirley stopping their own investigations. Then another murder happens....what will happen next. Will Ryli solve the murder or get herself in more hot water with her boyfriend Garret.
While Ryli is photographing at the screen of her first crime where Dr. Graves is killed, she gets involved trying to solve the murder. Someone tries to scare Ryli by sending her Dr Graves tongue and some of her tips of fingers, which doesn't stop Ryli, her best friend Paige or Aunt Shirley stopping their own investigations. Then another murder happens....what will happen next. Will Ryli solve the murder or get herself in more hot water with her boyfriend Garret.
September 1, 2017
Picture Perfect Murder by Jenna St. James was a great beginning to this series. Ryli is a a reporter for her home town paper and moonlights as a forensic photographer for the Granville police department. She's smart, funny and loves her family and friends. Her Aunt Shirley is probably the quirkest character that I have read in a very long time. The plot is fast paced with plenty of suspects and just a few twists that keep you reading. I did get an idea of who the murderer might be about midway through the book but I was never sure until the reveal. This story is well-written and the characters are likable. It's an enjoyable cozy mystery, and now I'm looking forward to book two!
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Summer Prescott Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Summer Prescott Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
September 19, 2017
Picture Perfect Murder's main character is a woman who is not only a reporter, but also a crime photographer to ensure she can make her brother's mortgage as he bought a second house and was nice enough to let us stay in his old one as long as she paid what he owed every month.
The first case of the book is a woman whose heart was removed and instead of her taking the pictures and moving on like a good crime reporter and photographer, she starts to get a little involved. A little more involved than her employer, and crush the police Chief, who is also a good friend of her brothers.
I liked this story for the most part, however about 50% of the way through it got a little slow, as in the tempo slows down and it becomes almost skimmable in the sense that if you skimmed, you wouldn't miss anything other than some witty remarks by her Aunt, some non-sexy times with the Police Chief, and some running around in the Falcon.
The main baddy is not overly apparent, but a couple of times there were times that a small inkling in my brain was like Ah-ha that is going to be the bad guy. That inkling usually leads to nothing, but it is there.
The first case of the book is a woman whose heart was removed and instead of her taking the pictures and moving on like a good crime reporter and photographer, she starts to get a little involved. A little more involved than her employer, and crush the police Chief, who is also a good friend of her brothers.
I liked this story for the most part, however about 50% of the way through it got a little slow, as in the tempo slows down and it becomes almost skimmable in the sense that if you skimmed, you wouldn't miss anything other than some witty remarks by her Aunt, some non-sexy times with the Police Chief, and some running around in the Falcon.
The main baddy is not overly apparent, but a couple of times there were times that a small inkling in my brain was like Ah-ha that is going to be the bad guy. That inkling usually leads to nothing, but it is there.
September 29, 2017
This was a cute cozy mystery with funny, snarky bits - think Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books. Actually, it felt rather *a lot* like the Stephanie Plum books. Complete with the cute but utterly personal-safety-disregarding protagonist, crazy old relative (here a great aunt, there a grandmother), sexy cop love interest, zany hijinks and wacky small town residents full of quirks and foibles... The story was fun and easy to read. I saw the whodunit from a mile away, but the book was still enjoyable and a nice distraction from the two rather heavy non-fiction books I'm currently reviewing. St. James has written a pleasant (even when disturbing) murder mystery with giddy, almost-over-the-top-but-still-fun characters that is a nice, light, quick read.
My review copy was provided by NetGalley.
My review copy was provided by NetGalley.
September 5, 2017
This is a fun cozy mystery about Ryli Sinclair who is a journalist at the local paper and moonlights as a photographer for the police department. Her first violent crime photography assignment leads to Ryli thinking she could solve the mystery and possibly do it before the aggravating and oh so sexy police chief does. Before long she has her best friend, a co-worker/wife of the newspaper owner, and her great Aunt Shirley working the case with her. Great Aunt Shirley provides the 1965 Ford Falcon to drive and all of her knowledge since she was a PI before she retired. What results is a combination of funny blundering, more horrific death, an engagement, and a little romance. All in all a good start to a new series that will appeal to most cozy mystery readers.
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