Deadly News

Britton Bay #1

by Jody Holford

Former Army brat Molly Owens is ready to put down roots, and the picturesque seaside town of Britton Bay on the Oregon Coast seems like the perfect place for it. Especially when she lands a job as editor of the local paper. But she’s got one colleague who’s very bad news . . .
 
As an experienced journalist, Molly is eager to bring the struggling Britton Bay Bulletin up to speed. But when she pushes Vernon, one of her less welcoming reporters, to dig a little deeper into the story of a prominent local family, the man ends up dead. The fact that he wasn’t well-liked makes finding the killer extra complicated. The lists of suspects range from his ex-wife to his own son to Molly’s boss, who has a secret of his own. But when Molly’s attempts to sleuth out the truth result in her receiving frightening threats, the trouble is just beginning . . .
 
The one bright spot is Molly’s newfound flirtation with Sam Alderich. The sexy mechanic is used to taking things apart and piecing them back together, and between the two of them they just might be able to solve this deadly puzzle—if Molly can survive peaceful small-town life long enough . . .

Genres: Cozy Mystery, Mystery, Cozy, Fiction, Romance, Audiobook, Adult

239 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 30, 2018

About the author

a wife* a mom* a reader and a writer* a friend* a daughter* a teacher* a sister* a blogger and follower* a worrier and word twister* a gemini*

Reviews

[Carrie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deadly News by Jody Holford is the first book in the new cozy A Britton Bay Mystery series. California native Molly Owens finds herself moving to a small town just in time to solve a murder.

Molly has had experience as a journalist so when she’s offered the job as editor of the Britton Bay Bulletin she’s excited to take on the task. Molly’s goal is to help the small town paper end it’s struggling but while most of the employee’s welcome her she clashes with one in particular.

Vernon isn’t exactly welcoming to Molly from the moment they meet but when Molly pushes him to investigate a prominent local family she never expects to find him dead. Feeling guilty over Vernon’s death Molly decides she needs to use her investigative skills to find the murderer herself.

While Deadly News was a promising beginning to a new series I couldn’t say that I didn’t have a few issues with this first installment. One thing I wasn’t quite expecting was a bit of insta-love with the romance playing a big part of the book, normally any relationship is more background than this one was. While this one was spot on with the small town vibe I did miss the overly quirkiness I find in a lot of cozies too. And for me I found the mystery a bit easy in this first book so hopefully the next would surprise me.

I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.

For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/

[Elle G. Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Release Date October 30, 2018
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Actual Rating: 5 stars

Yes! I have found another cozy mystery series that I am obsessed with! Deadly News is such a fantastic new cozy and I can't wait to see what happens in the next installment. This is the first in a brand new series by Jody Holford and features a sleuthing newspaper editor.

Moving from California to the charming coastal town of Bitton Bay should be an exciting moment in Molly's life. She has a new job as a newspaper editor, a charming new cottage to live in, an abundance of new (potential) friends, and a cute man who has caught her eye. But when one of the staff ends up murdered, her whole life is thrown into chaos! She feels guilty for the murder because she is the one that found Vernon in his home and to ease that guilt she decides to do a little sleuthing of her own. Too bad someone in town doesn't like her sticking her nose where it doesn't belong! Because Molly could be next!

If you are looking for a new cozy mystery series to follow along with as it progresses, I very much starting this one! I haven't read a cozy that features an amateur sleuth and newspaper editor, so this was a real treat for me! Also, if you are a fan of Jody Holford- you may recognize the name as she is a contemporary romance author as well- then you should pick this one up! I have now read both her contemporaries and cozies and have to admit that I prefer the cozies!

[Tari · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an incredibly sweet cozy mystery! It was a different touch to have an experienced contemporary romance writer writing a cozy mystery, but I loved the whole atmosphere that gave the book! Kind of like a Hallmark movie. I've only read cozies so far by cozy mystery writers or ones who have written some suspense as well. Maybe the biggest difference for me (and this was definitely a good thing) was that Molly and Sam didn't bicker with each other like the main sleuth sometimes does with the man she's falling for but somehow doesn't think she should or doesn't think she deserves a guy like that. I like that Molly didn't want to play the martyr and swear off men for good, even though when she first moved there she said she was going to just work. She realized Sam was nice and way different from her ex. This was a fun treat and I am definitely looking forward to the next book!

Molly Owens was just settling into her new town and sweet little rental home when her grumpy reporter turned up dead--she was the one that found him in his home when he didn't report to work for the second day in a row. Molly felt responsible for sending the man to interview a local woman from the founding family in town. She thought maybe Vernon had stumbled onto something that got him killed, and she wasn't going to be satisfied till the real killer was caught.

I absolutely loved the main characters in this book. Alan is just the nicest boss, Elizabeth turned out to be a very sweet co-worker, Sam of course is awesome and Cali is such a character! I wasn't real impressed with Clay, but I don't think readers were supposed to be impressed with him. Since Molly had no typical best-friend-of-the-main-character, I loved that Sam was such a good sounding board. Although Bella may prove to be a good friend in future books when Molly needs a friend who's a girl. The little dog Tigger sounded so adorable too!

This book had all the elements I love in a cozy of great characters, sweet small town, an adorable pet, cops who weren't grumpy--and a more unique job for the guy interest--Sam is a mechanic, not a cop! ;) I don't dislike cop boyfriends, they can come in very handy, but sometimes it's fun to switch it up.

[Peggy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Deadly News and look forward to seeing what the author had up next for Molly Owens and the rest of Britton Bay. I thought this was a charming start to a new series with good potential. It has a quaint, small town setting, with characters that are interesting and while the mystery was not overly compelling, I thought it was done well by the author in establishing this new series. I don't mind the romance that started with the first book and didn't feel like it distracted from the story.

A full review will be on the blog closer to the release date.

I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided to me by the publisher, Lyrical Underground, through Netgalley.

[Cozybooklady · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this first in a new series. Molly is new to Britton Falls, working as the new copy editor for the newspaper.
While most of her coworkers accept Molly, one cantankerous co-worker is not too pleased.
When Molly discovers his body, she uses her investigative instincts to dig into his death.
This is a well written story, with plenty of twists and turns to keep the reader engaged.
I'm looking forward to reading more in the series.
I volunteered to read and review an ARC of this book provided by the publisher and NetGalley.

[Kristina Anderson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Deadly News by Jody Hedlund is set in Britton Bay, Oregon. Molly Owens has moved from Lancaster, California to Britton Bay to become editor for the Britton Bay Bulletin. The Britton Bay Bulletin’s owner, Alan Benedict, is hoping Molly can revitalize the struggling paper to increase readership and revenue. Vernon East, a reporter for the paper, is antagonistic and resents Molly’s presence. She assigns Vernon to interview Vanessa Phillips on her family and two days later he is found dead in his home. The suspect list is long since Vernon was disagreeable, but Molly did spot a good clue at the crime scene. Molly works her way through the suspect list which includes an ex-wife, victim’s son, and her fellow employees. Someone feels Molly is getting too close to the truth and leaves her a threatening message. Molly is a reporter and not about to be dissuaded in her quest for the truth. When not out on the trail of a killer, Molly is settling into her new abode and making friends. She also finds an adorable bouncy puppy in need of an owner. Britton Bay will be a lovely home for Molly once she pinpoints Vernon’s killer.

Deadly News is a cute new cozy mystery. The cover is adorable with the black and white puppy who Molly names Tigger (it suits him). Molly is a likeable main character. She is starting over after catching her boyfriend in flagrante delicto with his ex-girlfriend. Thanks to mechanic, Sam Alderich, she finds a charming carriage house to live in with a landlady who will become a good friend. I would have liked more backstory on Molly, but she is an interesting, friendly character. I did find it odd, though, when she spilled out case details. As a reporter, I expected her to keep details to herself (it seemed out of place). The pace alternates in Deadly News. It starts out brisk, then slows down through the middle (especially when Molly is thinking about the case) with it picking up towards the end of the book. The mystery has several suspects with subtle clues. Avid cozy mystery readers will find this whodunit a cinch to solve. I was surprised by the quick romance between Molly and Sam. The sparks fly right away between them and he jumps into to help her with the mystery. I prefer a romance that develops slowly and is not as prominent in the story (the mystery should be the focus). I am giving Deadly News 3.5 out of 5 stars. A Britton Bay Mystery series has potential, and I will pick up the next book in this new cozy mystery series.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly News is the start of a promising new series! This cozy mystery was a delight from beginning to end, with characters I've already grown to love and a plucky protagonist who makes me want to stand up and cheer. The setting was as cozy as it gets, complete with delectable eating places and a sweet little dog. I'm anxious to see what's in store next for Molly, who's already proven herself to be an amateur sleuth extraordinaire. Bring on the next installment!

[Becky · Rating 5 out of 5]

I won this ebook from Goodreads First Reads Giveaway.

I loved this book so much! From the perfect setting to the wonderful characters. It did have more romance in it than a regular cozy but oblivious that didn't bother me. I love Jody Holford writing style and will be checking out her other books. Deadly News was her first cozy mystery.

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a great start to what has become one of my favourite cozy mystery series. The characters, setting, and plot are all fantastic. I hope this series will continue for a long time!

[JoAn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly News by Jody Holford was a cute and engaging read.

Molly Owens is an experienced journalist and has accepted the position of editor for a struggling small town newspaper. She is smart and funny and is looking forward to making a new home for herself in Britton Bay, OR. I liked Molly immediately and the other characters are equally likable. The plot was smooth and quickly paced with enough twists and turns to keep me guessing. The reveal was quite a surprise as I never guessed the identity of the murderer. There were also a few quirky characters in this small town that I would love to get to know more about, so I hope there will be more books in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book from Lyrical Underground via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.

[shannon✨ · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was enjoyable but it hasn’t blown me away. The story was kind of slow and the ending was slightly predictable.

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

A new author for me and the first book of a new series. The cover is attractive and invites on to read the book. The mystery is secondary to a romance between Molly Owens and Sam Alderich. Molly has accepted a position as Editor of Britton Bay. She is responsible for bringing the paper back to its former glory. She hits a snag when she asked Vernon to interview a Mrs. Phillips and flesh out his article. Vernon was later found dead and she becomes involved with the investigation. Molly needs answers before she joins Vernon. Molly adopted a stray puppy who figures in the solution. I recommend this book.

Disclosure: Many thanks to Kensington Books for a review copy. The opinions expressed are my own.

[Mary Brown · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly News
A Britton Bay Mystery, Book #1
Jody Holford
5 Stars

Synopsis:

Former Army brat Molly Owens is ready to put down roots, and the picturesque seaside town of Britton Bay on the Oregon Coast seems like the perfect place for it. Especially when she lands a job as editor of the local paper. But she’s got one colleague who’s very bad news . . .

As an experienced journalist, Molly is eager to bring the struggling Britton Bay Bulletin up to speed. But when she pushes Vernon, one of her less welcoming reporters, to dig a little deeper into the story of a prominent local family, the man ends up dead. The fact that he wasn’t well-liked makes finding the killer extra complicated. The lists of suspects range from his ex-wife to his own son to Molly’s boss, who has a secret of his own. But when Molly’s attempts to sleuth out the truth result in her receiving frightening threats, the trouble is just beginning . . .

The one bright spot is Molly’s newfound flirtation with Sam Alderich. The sexy mechanic is used to taking things apart and piecing them back together, and between the two of them they just might be able to solve this deadly puzzle—if Molly can survive peaceful small-town life long enough . . . (Goodreads)


Review:

The writing style flows smoothly and it defined the characters very clearly by their action and words. I could imagine the newsroom and the town of Britton Bay through the author’s description and I wanted to stay for a visit.

The characters are well rounded and well developed. Molly is a smart, hardworking caring woman who is not afraid of change. Not only has she moved, she is starting a new job, which will be very challenging. When someone from the newsroom gets murder, she will have to use her detective skills to figure out who the culprit is.

The mystery was well plotted and carried on well throughout the entire book. There were plenty of suspects to consider and clues to sift through and the mystery was not easy to solve.

This book is the first in a new series and if I were editor of the paper my headline would be “It Is A Winner”. And I think the cover is adorable.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, Kensington Books, and NetGalley, which I greatly appreciate.

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Former Army brat Molly Owns is looking for a change. When she finds an ad looking for an editor for the Britton Bay Bulletin on the Oregon Coast, she applies, and gets the job.

An experienced journalist, Molly is ready for the challenge, but when she pushes Vernon, a longtime Bulletin reporter to dig deeper into a story, and he turns up murdered, she blames herself. As she looks into the death, Molly realizes there is no shortage of suspects, from Vernon’s ex-wife to his own son to Molly’s boss, who has a secret of his own. But when Molly’s attempts to sleuth out the truth result in her receiving frightening threats, the trouble is just beginning.

I’m a sucker for newspapers stories, because I worked as a journalist for so many years. Deadly News was a bright spot in my reading week. Watching Molly in her new job made me wish for the olden days when I was a working journalist. She tackled the job head on, and it drew me into the story and made me savor every word.

One of the things I liked about the story was the fact that, as a working journalist, she had a reason to do an investigation of her own. She did a good job of it, too, which made for a fast and enjoyable read.

There is a great deal of romance in this book, as Molly begins a relationship with Sam Alderich, a local mechanic. Their attraction happened fast, as did the connection. It fit into the story, although I did wish it was been drawn out just a little bit. There is the addition of a sweet dog, and the animal features into the mystery. I did figure out the whodunit before it was revealed, but still enjoyed the tale to the end.

Small town life can be tough on journalists, as Molly found out. Watching her take her place in town, and work on the newspaper, made this a fun read. I look forward to seeing what happens in book two.

I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.

[Christine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the first book in the britton bay series . Molly has just moved to britton bay because of her new job as editor of the local paper , the bulletin. When one of her colleagues doesn't report to work, Molly goes to check on him and finds him dead. There are no shortage of suspects since he wasn't the easiest person to get along with.

Along with some new friends , Molly tries to piece together what happened to her colleague . This was a good first booknfor a series. I thought it set the characters up well. They were very likable and made me want to know more abput them. I will definitely read the next book.

I received this book from net galley in exchange for a honest review .

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a strong series debut set in a friendly, coastal Oregon town. Molly has just moved to Britton Bay to start her new position as editor of the town's newspaper, in hopes of helping revive the paper and meeting its townpeople's needs. What she didn't plan on was having to investigate a murder while settling into the job and her new town. Not knowing anyone very well, she had a fair list of potential suspects, which makes for an intriguing mystery. I didn't solve the mystery before it was revealed in the book, which made it entertaining from start to finish. I also really liked the feel of the town and some of the people Molly started to get to know: Sam, Katherine, Callie, Bella, Alan, and Elizabeth. I'm looking forward to reading the next book in the series!

I received an advance copy of this book. This review contains my honest thoughts and opinions.

[Linda Langford · Rating 4 out of 5]

First of all, I love the adorable cover showing cute puppy, Tigger. This new series has potential with a likeable protagonist, Molly Owens, and an interesting supporting cast of characters. I found the starting pace peppy, then it slowed in the middle, and picked back up in the latter part of the story. The plot is centered around reporter, Molly, and the newsroom and employees she’s just started working with in the charming seaside town of Britton Bay, Oregon. When one of the staff starts researching a news story and is murdered, can newcomer Molly help police solve the mystery?

Being a very traditional cozy mystery reader, I was both surprised and shocked that Molly quickly established a romantic relationship with mechanic, Sam Alderich. I’m happier when the mystery stays centerstage and any romance develops slowly, along with trust. I also found the killer reveal quite abrupt, and the reasoning a scenario I’ve read many times before. I give this story 3-1/2 Stars which I graded up to a 4 Star Review because I did like Molly and many of the other characters, and I hope to see more originality in future books.

I reviewed a digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Lyrical Underground. Thank you.

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This new cozy is off to a good start!

At 28 Molly Owens leaves L.A. for a fresh start in Britton Bay, Oregon. Now editor of the small town weekly newspaper, Molly finds herself dealing with older, established employees, one who is a challenge from the start.

When Molly finds Vernon's dead body she feels guilty for forcing him to do an interview with the elderly town patriarch whose family's stories don't line up with Vernon's notes.

This is a town with a great variety of characters including Molly's landlady, Katherine, eatery owner & waitress Calliope Jacobs and milkshake specialist Callan Blair.

I can see many more cozy adventures as Molly crosses paths with Det. Chris Beaton and mechanic Sam Alderich.

I volunteered to read an ARC from Lyrical Press (Kensington Publishing) through Net Galley.

[Karen Stallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I LOVED it! This first novel in a new cozy mystery series "DEADLY NEWS" was engaging and really well-written, with a wonderful small town, seaside setting and excellent characters. As most of you know I love the sea and the way this town was described I was dreaming of living there myself. The protagonist Molly was intelligent, likeable, and the friends she made were people I would like to hang out with especially Katherine and Cali. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the story and instant romance whilst trying to figure out the killer. The reveal and the reason Vernon was killed was surprising, I had guesses who close to end but not the why. I think Jody did a very good job on her first cozy mystery (author of romance novels) and I am really looking forward to her next book in the series DEADLY VOWS. (PS I preordered it already)

[Kim Reads (Read Your Writes Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jody Holford has been on my reading wish list for a while. Normally a contemporary romance author, Daily News marks her first time writing a cozy mystery.

In Daily News, Molly Owens moves from California to Britton Bay, Oregon, to become the new editor of the Britton Bay Bulletin, a small town failing newspaper. Molly wants to get more people to read the newspaper both online and in print. Her first course of business is to get staff writers Elizabeth Grover and Vernon East to write better articles; ones people actually care about reading. She immediately clashes with Vernon, who she secretly thinks wanted the editor position for himself. Molly proposes Vernon interview a descendant of the town’s founding family as part of a special interest piece. Days after the interview, Vernon is found dead and Molly can't help but think it's because of her.

While Molly isn't a reporter, she's curious as to the details of Vernon’s death and what really happened. Using her job at the paper as a reason to ask questions, Molly innocently questions various residents. With the help of her landlord's son, Sam Alderich, Molly learns surprising information about Vernon and several Britton Bay residents. As Molly works to pick up the slack at the newspaper left by Vernon’s death, she strikes up a romantic relationship with Sam. Too bad she's closing in on the killer who may just make her the new top story.

Daily News reads more like a romance then a cozy mystery. There seems to be more time spent on the relationship between Molly and Sam then you would normally find in a cozy mystery. For me,that was perfectly fine, as I've always wished there was a little more romance in cozies. Sam and Molly made for good characters. They're both very likable and are people I would love to hang around with. I loved the growing love story between them. Jody has written a good mystery. I found myself thoroughly enjoying the story while trying to figure out the killer. The reveal and the reason Vernon was killed was surprisingly shocking. I think Jody did a very good job. I'm a really looking forward to her next book in the series.

**Received a copy of the book from the publisher and voluntarily reviewed.**

[Clare O'Beara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a likeable and energetic mystery to start a series. We see the tried and true formula of a newcomer to town being appreciated by some and resented by others while she learns the ropes and the relationships. In this case, our protagonist has a California journalism degree and is hired to help modernise and turn around a fading small town newspaper. While she's keen to jazz up the website, the first priority has to be finding news. People seldom buy a paper any more, and advertising is falling off so both incomes are dwindling.

The grouchy senior reporter is found dead in his apartment and a crime is suspected. What does not make any sense to me, is our editor deciding to break in to the dead man's property to remove a box of photos of the town. If it's potential evidence she should tell the police. If it's not, they'll release it soon. I also don't see any reason why, when the police learn what she has done, they don't jail her for interfering with an investigation and obstructing justice. And they just take her word for it that she did not remove any evidence from the box. This is why I can't give five stars.

I'm looking forward to meeting all these great characters again in the next book. I downloaded an e-ARC from Fresh Fiction. This is an unbiased review.

[Nicole · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly News is the debut cozy novel by author Jody Holford, and is a nice blend of small town cozy mystery with just the right amount of romance on the side. Molly has left California for an editorial position in Britton Bay on the Oregon Coast, and is soon embroiled in a murder investigation after she finds her antagonistic employee dead, and believes she's responsible for the circumstances leading to his demise. Plenty of likable characters, and a mystery that kept this reader guessing until the very end - as well as a couple of red herrings thrown in to keep me on my toes. I absolutely recommend this book, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next release in the series. A+++

[Jeanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Deadly News is first in the new Britton Bay Mystery series, and what a great start! The adorable pup on the cover with his little purple bear and the newspaper headline are what first attracted me to it. Each item is an important part of this clever, intriguing mystery, with very well-defined, realistic characters, and the beautiful Oregon coast setting.
Molly Owens came to Britton Bay to become editor of their small newspaper. At least one person is seething that she is there. Vernon is an older man who doesn’t like most people and the feeling is mutual. Alan is third generation owner of the paper. Hannah, Alan’s niece and intern, and Elizabeth seem cooperative. Clay is the part time photographer and social media expert.
Molly assigns tasks for a piece on the Phillips family, the local movers and shakers. That evening, she finds the air has been let from all her tires and stops at the service station. The good-looking mechanic who filled them told her where she could find a place to rent, a carriage house at the local B&B. She also met Calliope, owner of the best eatery in town, who knows almost everyone there.
Vernon interviewed the matriarch of the Phillips family, who loaned him a box of family photos, journal pages, and newspaper articles. On Saturday he didn’t call or come in to work. Molly went to his home to see if he was okay and found him dead, with a heavy portable coffee cup with blood on the base nearby.
Much later, when Molly prepared to leave the office, she heard a noise in the alley near the dumpster. She tracked it down to a little black and white puppy wrestling a stuffed purple bear from a pile of trash. With no collar or owner nearby, she put a sign in the window about the pup and took him home until the owner contacts the paper. She also came across a printed series of emails between Vernon and Elizabeth, blackmailing her and Alan if they did not stop their relationship. That could put a different spin on the murder investigation.
This is a series that I am looking forward to seeing more of! I highly recommend Deadly News for several reasons.
First is how well Molly is defined. Within a short time, I felt as if I had known her much longer than the length of the novel, and appreciate her personality, work ethic, career, her intelligence and willingness to find the truth. I like Hannah; she is an outstanding teen! She studies hard and excels as an intern. Katherine is a landlady and mother figure everyone would want. I loved the puppy from the start! This sweetheart has a special appeal.
The sensitivity and dignity with which the author addressed a serious health concern is exemplary. The more we learn about it in this manner, the more sufferers and families may be freed.
The plot is full of twists and turns that kept changing my suspect list. I had very briefly considered the real bad guy but couldn’t guess a motive. Yet, the rest of the suspects didn’t seem quite right, even with some of the evidence. I was completely surprised at the outcome, including the why behind the who.
This is a must-read for those who enjoy journalism and well-written cozies!
From a grateful heart: I received an e-Arc of this novel from the publisher and NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[cEe beE · Rating 2 out of 5]

Nancy Drew? Where are you? Even Scooby-Doo and the gang can solve a mystery better and faster than the protagonist of this story; newspaper editor, military brat and Oregon transplant Molly Owens.

Two thirds of the story is uneventful; Molly working - occasionally - often grabbing breakfast muffins, coffee, or sandwiches for lunch and/or flirting with the town’s hunky mechanic. The monotony is broken by the murder of a co-worker. It inspires her to sleuth and guessing at suspects. Yet out of oddly misplaced politeness, she refuses to ask probing questions out of anyone. She’s also overly distraught at discovering the body and endlessly ruminates on it with everyone she talks to. WTF?

Except for the dead man, everyone in this idyllic small town is polite, friendly, gossipy and wants to feed her. Molly and her wannabe bf Sam are respectful and chaste. The setting feels like the 1950s instead of the 21st century. It’s like The Andy Griffith Show instead of Murder She Wrote.

After many red herrings, the mystery finally unravels near the end. And while satisfying, it also feels rushed. 2.5 stars.

[Meg · Rating 5 out of 5]

A New Cozy Author!
Jody Holford has finally hit the scene with her new cozy mystery Deadly News! I genuinely enjoyed this first book!

Molly Owen had recently accepted a job at the local paper in the seaside town of Britton. The paper had fallen on some hard times and Molly was hired to help turn it around. From her first day on the job she felt the antagonism of a long-time employee, Vernon. When Vernon ends up dead, she suddenly finds herself viewing each of her co-workers as suspects in the Murder. After deciding she needs to investigate, she finds herself as a target.

As I read through this book, I too couldn’t seem to figure out who the killer was . The story takes you on an adventure through the little seaside town as we follow Molly through her investigations. Is everything really as it seems, or is there a much more logical reason behind what is going on? I liked Molly as our protagonist and enjoyed my view of the town and local characters. I can’t wait for the next in the series to come out!

[iread · Rating 4 out of 5]

Deadly News by Jody Holford is the first in her new Britton Bay Mystery series. This is a sweet mystery romance. I enjoyed the book. I felt it moved a little slow at first; however, it soon picked up speed and I couldn’t put it down. I loved reading about the different characters in the small town of Britton Bay. Molly Owens has been hired as the new editor of the local paper. I enjoyed Molly’s character but I wished for more physical description of her. I especially liked the hero Sam Alderich. “The man walking toward her, wearing a pair of dark blue coveralls and wiping his hands on a grease rag, was tall, with wide shoulders, and thick, dark hair. His smile had more wattage than the sun setting behind him. Her stomach flip-flopped like it had no memory of just being wronged by this very gender!”
I am looking forward to more books in this series. I was gifted a copy of this book.

[Kirsti · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book!

Of course I love this genre to bits (cozy mystery) and I read so much of it that I'd like to think I know when a series has potential or not. I really think this one is on to a winner, with only a few small things buggin me throughout and generally enjoying this book. It is the first in a new series, so we get plenty of introductions, but each of the characters had that special small town feel that really makes a great cozy.

The mystery was pretty good too, even if I guessed it waaaaay too early. I was a little thrown though by a late change, but in the end my hunch was correct! There is a cute romance shaping up, and thankfully no love triangle here. Woo!

A fun cozy with good potential. Four stars.

[Jessica Wilhoite · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fantastic new series! More romance than is usually in a cozy, but in a good way;

Molly is new in town and makes an enemy in her new co-worker at the local newspaper. So, of course, she stumbles upon his dead body soon after arriving in Britton Bay. Not many people liked the victim, but who hated him enough to kill? Molly is ruffling feathers by following her inner reporter and trying to investigate the murder, which the police do not want her to do. As usual, I was shocked at the revelation of the murderer.

Good writing style, adorable puppy, cute mechanic, etc...all the makings of a good cozy. 4.7 stars.

I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley. #netgalley #jodyholford #deadlynews

[Eileen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick easy read and lots of mystery and adventure. Enjoyed many of the characters and trying to figure out who the murderer was. Took awhile since could have been many, since the man was never nice to anyone and never liked by anyone in town. Molly the new boss figures it out since she is a sleuth and keeps annoying the sheriff. In the end all tuns out well and the romance she never planned on becomes a wonderful touch to her life in the new town.

[Patrizia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Questo libro era finito nel dimenticatoio... Meno male che mi serviva per finire una challenge sennò sarebbe rimasto lì ancora a lungo, temo. Devo dire che non è male, anche se il colpevole non è stata una sorpresa: ho quasi subito sospettato della persona giusta, nonostante vari personaggi sembrassero all'apparenza più probabili.