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Charlotte Ross Mysteries #4
The Tarkington Treasure
A spooky old house, rumors of a hidden Civil War treasure, a neighbor’s murder, and an ex-fiancé falling unconscious at her feet—Charlotte Ross has her hands full when she’s invited to stay at her friend, Jane Marshall’s home while her apartment is being renovated.
Jane and her new fiancé have sold everything to move to the large estate she’d just inherited near the small town in Illinois, where she grew up. She’s always loved the house, but the cost of living in, and fixing up, a deteriorating old mansion is more than both their incomes combined. If she can’t come up with the money for the next property tax payment, she’ll be forced to give it up.
Charlotte is intent on winning back her ex, but her efforts are stymied when he’s suspected of Jane’s neighbor’s murder. The two couples soon discover the rambling old house holds more than one secret when they join forces to find the real killer—and the elusive, Tarkington treasure.
Jane and her new fiancé have sold everything to move to the large estate she’d just inherited near the small town in Illinois, where she grew up. She’s always loved the house, but the cost of living in, and fixing up, a deteriorating old mansion is more than both their incomes combined. If she can’t come up with the money for the next property tax payment, she’ll be forced to give it up.
Charlotte is intent on winning back her ex, but her efforts are stymied when he’s suspected of Jane’s neighbor’s murder. The two couples soon discover the rambling old house holds more than one secret when they join forces to find the real killer—and the elusive, Tarkington treasure.
338 pages, Paperback
Published December 29, 2016
63 people are currently reading
374 people want to read
About the author
Evelyn Cullet
10 books81 followersI write mysteries with warm romance and a little humor.When I'm not reading mysteries, I'm writing and maintaining my blog, and reviewing novels. I was a former member of the Agatha Christie Society and am currently a member of Sisters In Crime.
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Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
August 9, 2022
I choose this book for a very simple reason...it had a gold cover...and it covered a challenge category. Well...two simple reasons. As it turned out, it did so much more. It was more than entertaining, and it made me buy the first three books just to see more of Charlotte Ross. To say that I really enjoyed this intriguing read would be an understatement. The mystery of the hidden treasure was so well plotted and the characters very realistic. There were a couple of subplots that added depth, and a red herring added into the story. There was enough background given that it easily qualified as a standalone read. There are at least two love stories...one of them is a love triangle. Then there is the interesting American history, and then there was the occasional dead bodies popping up in the cellars. With a story was so full of mesmerizing occurrences that are so well woven into one another that you just have to keep turning pages. Who needs sleep anyway?
April 28, 2017
Meet Charlotte and Jane, long time friends who also solve murders. Jane and her fiance, who is Charlotte's cousin, have just moved into a large mansion that Jane inherited from her Godfather. Charlotte is staying with them while her apartment is being renovated. Charlotte's first hours in the house have her hearing footsteps, doors shutting and a man running alongside the house. Tarkington House is rumored to have a civil war treasure hidden somewhere in the house or on the extensive grounds. Jane needs to find the treasure to pay the next tax bill on the estate or she will lose it. When Charlotte's ex-fiance, now a private investigator, lands at her feet after being hit over the heat, she wants answers from him about his disappearance from their life together and why is he here now. I really enjoyed this intriguing read. The mystery of the hidden treasure was well plotted and the characters very realistic. There were several subplots that added depth and red herrings to the story. This is the fourth book in the series but the first that I have read. There was enough background that I was not lost and it made me want to read the first three books.
February 15, 2018
Treasure Found!
I really enjoyed reading this story. The characters are interesting and well drawn. The plot is intriguing and pulls you along right to the end. Its twists and turns keep you guessing and involved - I couldn't put it down! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book and highly recommend it to you.
I really enjoyed reading this story. The characters are interesting and well drawn. The plot is intriguing and pulls you along right to the end. Its twists and turns keep you guessing and involved - I couldn't put it down! I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader copy of this book and highly recommend it to you.
July 22, 2017
Interesting
I would have enjoyed a more detailed description of the house and the town where the characters grew up in. The only surprise was where the treasure was hidden.
I would have enjoyed a more detailed description of the house and the town where the characters grew up in. The only surprise was where the treasure was hidden.
March 11, 2017
Tarkington Treasures is so much more than a story of looking for hidden treasures. There are at least two love stories in there, one of them is certainly a love triangle. Then there is the interesting American (Confederate) history and the occasional dead bodies popping up in cellars.
With a story so chock full of mesmerizing tales that are well woven into each other, you won’t be able to put this book down. There is Jane who seems like the modern day Nancy Drew who has the expenses of trying to manage an old house while juggling new love with an old flame. And Charlotte’s love life is filled with tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Very well written.
With a story so chock full of mesmerizing tales that are well woven into each other, you won’t be able to put this book down. There is Jane who seems like the modern day Nancy Drew who has the expenses of trying to manage an old house while juggling new love with an old flame. And Charlotte’s love life is filled with tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Very well written.
February 21, 2018
The Tarkington Treasure by Evelyn Cullet
Oh what a fantastic read this was. One one my favourite reads are about a mystery in an old house. This is one where three children two of which were cousins, used to holiday. The surroundings were a pleasure to imagine and the characters pleasantly likeable. Charlotte was surprised to find her best friend Jane had fallen for the charms of her cousin Kenny who had a habit of getting into trouble which she did not want Jane to have to deal with. Her own fiancé Brett had broken Charlotte’s heart and turned up again to cause torment everytime she saw him in company with other women. Also the local detective whom Jane had solved cases with was around driving Kenny crazy with jealousy. It was a great mystery, as good as an Agatha Christie novel except none of my guesses at killers or clues were correct! No, it kept me guessing. This was a wonderful read!
I received a free copy of this book but the review is written entirely by me.
Oh what a fantastic read this was. One one my favourite reads are about a mystery in an old house. This is one where three children two of which were cousins, used to holiday. The surroundings were a pleasure to imagine and the characters pleasantly likeable. Charlotte was surprised to find her best friend Jane had fallen for the charms of her cousin Kenny who had a habit of getting into trouble which she did not want Jane to have to deal with. Her own fiancé Brett had broken Charlotte’s heart and turned up again to cause torment everytime she saw him in company with other women. Also the local detective whom Jane had solved cases with was around driving Kenny crazy with jealousy. It was a great mystery, as good as an Agatha Christie novel except none of my guesses at killers or clues were correct! No, it kept me guessing. This was a wonderful read!
I received a free copy of this book but the review is written entirely by me.
February 11, 2018
Awesome book!!!
I enjoyed this mystery very much, it had me guessing all the way....that's the way I like them! I recommend this book for sure if u like mysteries.
I enjoyed this mystery very much, it had me guessing all the way....that's the way I like them! I recommend this book for sure if u like mysteries.
February 2, 2017
“The Tarkington Treasure” by Evelyn Cullet is full of fun, mystery and romance, and a hidden treasure.
Friends Charlotte Ross and Jane Marshall are always in the market for a good mystery, and they find one when Jane inherits a civil war era house. It’s rumored that the house hides a treasure. Between the treasure, unexpected visitors and a murder, the women have their hands full. Still, there’s time for a little romance.
I highly recommend this story and the previous books in the series to anyone who enjoys mystery, surprises and a touch of romance and humor.
Friends Charlotte Ross and Jane Marshall are always in the market for a good mystery, and they find one when Jane inherits a civil war era house. It’s rumored that the house hides a treasure. Between the treasure, unexpected visitors and a murder, the women have their hands full. Still, there’s time for a little romance.
I highly recommend this story and the previous books in the series to anyone who enjoys mystery, surprises and a touch of romance and humor.
January 7, 2017
"The Tarkington Treasure" by Evelyn Cullet is a great addition to the author's Charlotte Ross cozy mystery series and, as was the case with the first three books, I thoroughly enjoyed reading it.
A spooky old house, rumors of a lost family treasure dating back to the Civil War era and, of course, a murder!
I highly recommend this book!
A spooky old house, rumors of a lost family treasure dating back to the Civil War era and, of course, a murder!
I highly recommend this book!
November 6, 2017
Charlotte and Jane are planning to spend a few relaxing days in the house Jane inherited, but all their plans will change when a body appears and seems linked to a long lost treasure... This will not be the relaxing days they were expecting, but who can say no to a good adventure?
I was a little bit lost in the beginning with so many characters, I didn't know the relation between them or the reason of their actions, but page by page everything started to fit and I was glued to this hidden treasure.
I liked how the author (Evelyn Cullet) mixed the story, the investigation and the characters without making it too much but to get you interested. Jane and Charlotte, the main characters are brave and intelligent, they know how to handle an investigation, but they have some problems in the heart affairs... I would never act like any of them, but everyone has their right to choose, right?
This is the fourth book of the Charlotte Ross Mysteries, you can read it as standalone, but I loved so much the characters that I will start reading the series and I am sure you will too! I can't wait to read their new adventure!
Do you believe in ghosts?
I was a little bit lost in the beginning with so many characters, I didn't know the relation between them or the reason of their actions, but page by page everything started to fit and I was glued to this hidden treasure.
I liked how the author (Evelyn Cullet) mixed the story, the investigation and the characters without making it too much but to get you interested. Jane and Charlotte, the main characters are brave and intelligent, they know how to handle an investigation, but they have some problems in the heart affairs... I would never act like any of them, but everyone has their right to choose, right?
This is the fourth book of the Charlotte Ross Mysteries, you can read it as standalone, but I loved so much the characters that I will start reading the series and I am sure you will too! I can't wait to read their new adventure!
Do you believe in ghosts?
November 1, 2017
This is a new author to me. The description and cover drew me to wanting to read it.
I did not have any problems following the story, despite not reading the other Charlotte Ross Mysteries. I loved how the story started out with a bang and kept me turning page after page. I love the descriptions that went into the story. I love anything related to the Civil War, so I was intriguged to follow the clues and attempt to connect the puzzle. Jane and Charlotte are likeable characters. The writing flowed nicely.
I received a copy of this book through the Great Escapes blog tour program. All Opinions are my own
I did not have any problems following the story, despite not reading the other Charlotte Ross Mysteries. I loved how the story started out with a bang and kept me turning page after page. I love the descriptions that went into the story. I love anything related to the Civil War, so I was intriguged to follow the clues and attempt to connect the puzzle. Jane and Charlotte are likeable characters. The writing flowed nicely.
I received a copy of this book through the Great Escapes blog tour program. All Opinions are my own
February 22, 2017
‘Get out before it’s too late!’
Illinois author Evelyn Cullet has officially retired from the business of a soft drink company and since she has been committed to writing since childhood, fascinated if not consumed with the themes of mystery and romance, she is devoted full time to her passion. She was a past member of the Agatha Christie Society and is currently a member of the Oak Lawn Writer's Group, and Sisters In Crime. Living in a suburb of Chicago she toured England and Northern Ireland preparing for the development of her novel, ROMANCING A MYSTERY. Her other popular novels are part of her Charlotte Ross Mysteries - LOVE, LIES AND MURDER, MASTERPIECE OF MURDER, ONCE UPON A CRIME, and now Book 4 of that series, THE TARKINGTON TREASURE.
Knowing how to begin a mystery is a craft unto itself and Evelyn elects to provide some in depth psychological insights into her main character from the start. ‘Charlotte rubbed her thumb over the tan-line where her engagement ring used to sit. After months without a word from Brett, she’d finally decided to take it off. “Hello? Earth to Charlotte. We’re here.” Jane pulled her Chevy Malibu into the long, curving driveway that led to the old Tudor-style house. “Sorry. Just thinking about... never mind. The house looks just like I remember it. The perfect place for you to get some writing done.” “It is.” Jane agreed. “The quiet seclusion, miles from Eldridge Corners, is part of its charm and catnip for a mystery writer like me.” Jane stopped in front of the garage and honked the horn. There should have been some signs of activity since her fiancé was supposed to be there. But there were none. Jane pressed down on the horn again, this time longer and with more force. Nothing. The great hulk of a building stood silent and stately in the May sunshine, as if it hadn’t been disturbed since General Tarkington’s death three weeks earlier….‘ Nothing vicious, just intriguing, accessible mystery as few authors can match Evelyn’s penchant for combining mystery, humor and romance – and a hefty dose of escapism worthy of a late night reading!
The plot is outlined for us – ‘A spooky old house, rumors of a hidden Civil War treasure, a neighbor’s murder, and an ex-fiancé falling unconscious at her feet—Charlotte Ross has her hands full when she’s invited to stay at her friend, Jane Marshall’s home while her apartment is being renovated. Jane and her new fiancé have sold everything to move to the large estate she’d just inherited near the small town in Illinois, where she grew up. She’s always loved the house, but the cost of living in, and fixing up, a deteriorating old mansion is more than both their incomes combined. If she can’t come up with the money for the next property tax payment, she’ll be forced to give it up. Charlotte is intent on winning back her ex, but her efforts are stymied when he’s suspected of Jane’s neighbor’s murder. The two couples soon discover the rambling old house holds more than one secret when they join forces to find the real killer—and the elusive, Tarkington treasure.’
Few authors can blend the ingredients of a cozy mystery as well as Evelyn Cullet: she is our Agatha Christie and her Charlotte Ross is our version of Miss Jane Marple! There are few accolades greater than that!
Illinois author Evelyn Cullet has officially retired from the business of a soft drink company and since she has been committed to writing since childhood, fascinated if not consumed with the themes of mystery and romance, she is devoted full time to her passion. She was a past member of the Agatha Christie Society and is currently a member of the Oak Lawn Writer's Group, and Sisters In Crime. Living in a suburb of Chicago she toured England and Northern Ireland preparing for the development of her novel, ROMANCING A MYSTERY. Her other popular novels are part of her Charlotte Ross Mysteries - LOVE, LIES AND MURDER, MASTERPIECE OF MURDER, ONCE UPON A CRIME, and now Book 4 of that series, THE TARKINGTON TREASURE.
Knowing how to begin a mystery is a craft unto itself and Evelyn elects to provide some in depth psychological insights into her main character from the start. ‘Charlotte rubbed her thumb over the tan-line where her engagement ring used to sit. After months without a word from Brett, she’d finally decided to take it off. “Hello? Earth to Charlotte. We’re here.” Jane pulled her Chevy Malibu into the long, curving driveway that led to the old Tudor-style house. “Sorry. Just thinking about... never mind. The house looks just like I remember it. The perfect place for you to get some writing done.” “It is.” Jane agreed. “The quiet seclusion, miles from Eldridge Corners, is part of its charm and catnip for a mystery writer like me.” Jane stopped in front of the garage and honked the horn. There should have been some signs of activity since her fiancé was supposed to be there. But there were none. Jane pressed down on the horn again, this time longer and with more force. Nothing. The great hulk of a building stood silent and stately in the May sunshine, as if it hadn’t been disturbed since General Tarkington’s death three weeks earlier….‘ Nothing vicious, just intriguing, accessible mystery as few authors can match Evelyn’s penchant for combining mystery, humor and romance – and a hefty dose of escapism worthy of a late night reading!
The plot is outlined for us – ‘A spooky old house, rumors of a hidden Civil War treasure, a neighbor’s murder, and an ex-fiancé falling unconscious at her feet—Charlotte Ross has her hands full when she’s invited to stay at her friend, Jane Marshall’s home while her apartment is being renovated. Jane and her new fiancé have sold everything to move to the large estate she’d just inherited near the small town in Illinois, where she grew up. She’s always loved the house, but the cost of living in, and fixing up, a deteriorating old mansion is more than both their incomes combined. If she can’t come up with the money for the next property tax payment, she’ll be forced to give it up. Charlotte is intent on winning back her ex, but her efforts are stymied when he’s suspected of Jane’s neighbor’s murder. The two couples soon discover the rambling old house holds more than one secret when they join forces to find the real killer—and the elusive, Tarkington treasure.’
Few authors can blend the ingredients of a cozy mystery as well as Evelyn Cullet: she is our Agatha Christie and her Charlotte Ross is our version of Miss Jane Marple! There are few accolades greater than that!
January 9, 2025
Two Girls, an Old House and A Mystery
The Tarkington Treasure by Evelyn Cullet is a light mystery romp that takes two young women home with their finances. It is all done in an old house full of lot of secrets and and people trying to find an old treasure from the Civil was. I found it charming and a quick read. I give it 5 stars.
The Tarkington Treasure by Evelyn Cullet is a light mystery romp that takes two young women home with their finances. It is all done in an old house full of lot of secrets and and people trying to find an old treasure from the Civil was. I found it charming and a quick read. I give it 5 stars.
January 15, 2019
Made you want to keep reading
A mystery it is! Reminded me a bit of clue. Jane and Charlotte on the case of the Tarkington Treasure!
A mystery it is! Reminded me a bit of clue. Jane and Charlotte on the case of the Tarkington Treasure!
February 7, 2020
Treasure(Kindle/$.99) - 2/6/2020A light mystery involving two friends and their friends and an old house with a tale of hidden treasure belonging to one of them.
February 21, 2025
Lots of Surprises!
Although there were a lot of main characters to keep straight, this story was full of surprises and action packed.
Although there were a lot of main characters to keep straight, this story was full of surprises and action packed.
February 24, 2017
At first glance I honestly thought this was a little predictable, an old house filled with mysteries, so my expectations were a little low this time, thankfully I was wrong.
Charlotte Ross is in the middle of a chaos which involves an ancient treasure, getting back her ex, a murder right next to the apartment she is staying, romance and drama. I know there is a little romance in here but I like it this time because of how subtle it is. But the mystery itself is what I enjoy the most in this book, and the interactions of the characters are really entertaining, I can’t express how satisfying is the ending, no book had given me this feeling of accomplishment when I finish reading it, and it will be a shame for me to spoil it here so get this book and read it. Is the fourth book of the series but for me it was perfectly fine to read it without any trouble.
Charlotte Ross is in the middle of a chaos which involves an ancient treasure, getting back her ex, a murder right next to the apartment she is staying, romance and drama. I know there is a little romance in here but I like it this time because of how subtle it is. But the mystery itself is what I enjoy the most in this book, and the interactions of the characters are really entertaining, I can’t express how satisfying is the ending, no book had given me this feeling of accomplishment when I finish reading it, and it will be a shame for me to spoil it here so get this book and read it. Is the fourth book of the series but for me it was perfectly fine to read it without any trouble.
February 24, 2017
As the fourth book in this series unfolds, Evelyn Cullet keeps us speculating as to who will find the Tarkington Treasure. It isn’t a matter of “if”, but whom, when and where since the reported treasure has been hidden for over a hundred years. It is even more difficult since riches are recorded but no one is left alive who even knows what the sleuths should be searching.
Jane and her best friend Charlotte Ross are amazed at the number of people who show up at the old house with alternative motives. Jane felt it was best to keep the treasure myth a secret from her fiancé after inheriting the old house. She was afraid this would rock their relationship and cause an irreversible severs.
Meanwhile Charlotte faces her fiancé who left stranded in another country months ago without an explanation. She wants to trust him but he always has other women around him. As alternative motives are revealed and secrets are exposed trust becomes vital.
Jane and her best friend Charlotte Ross are amazed at the number of people who show up at the old house with alternative motives. Jane felt it was best to keep the treasure myth a secret from her fiancé after inheriting the old house. She was afraid this would rock their relationship and cause an irreversible severs.
Meanwhile Charlotte faces her fiancé who left stranded in another country months ago without an explanation. She wants to trust him but he always has other women around him. As alternative motives are revealed and secrets are exposed trust becomes vital.
February 18, 2017
This book is right up my alley with an old house with many secrets and lots of people to contribute to and/or solve the mysteries found in and around that house. Evelyn's books keep me glued to the pages and I finished it long ago. I just didn't have time to write the review until now. Her style of writing is one that will keep you turning the pages until the last one and then you hate to see the story end.
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews