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Merrychurch Mysteries #2
Roots of Evil
Many consider Naomi Teedle the village witch. Most people avoid her except when they have need of her herbs and potions. She lives alone on the outskirts of Merrychurch, and that’s fine by everyone—old Mrs. Teedle is not the most pleasant of people. But when she is found murdered, her mouth bulging with her own herbs and roots, suddenly no one has a bad word to say about her. Jonathon de Mountford is adjusting to life up at the manor house, but it’s not a solitary life: pub landlord Mike Tattersall sees to that. Jonathon is both horrified to learn of the recent murder and confused by the sudden reversal of public opinion. Surely someone in the village had reason to want her dead? He and Mike decide it’s time for them to step in and “help” the local police with their investigation. Only problem is, their sleuthing uncovers more than one suspect—and the list is getting longer…
300 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 22, 2019
32 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
K.C. Wells
160 books1,864 followersK.C. Wells lives on an island off the south coast of the UK, surrounded by natural beauty. She writes about men who love men, and can’t even contemplate a life that doesn’t include writing.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
The rainbow rose tattoo on her back with the words 'Love is Love' and 'Love Wins' is her way of hoisting a flag. She plans to be writing about men in love - be it sweet and slow, hot or kinky - for a long while to come.
If you want to follow her exploits, you can sign up for her monthly newsletter: http://eepurl.com/cNKHlT
You can stalk – er, find – her in the following places:
E-mail: k.c.wells@btinternet.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/KCWellsWorld
Twitter: @K_C_Wells
Website: https://www.kcwellswrites.com
Instagram: www.instagram.com/k.c.wells
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/k-c-w...
And for those who like things a little hotter?
There's KC's alter ego, Tantalus, who writes gay erotica.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
August 23, 2022
Just as good as the first one! I loved getting back to Merrychurch and seeing Jonathon and Mike again. The mystery was just as well thought out as in the first book and had me guessing and second guessing myself over and over again. Almost everyone was a suspect to me at one point or another. In the end, I was right about the murder. As per usual, the romance took the backseat for the mystery but just as I said about the first book the chemistry between Jonathon and Mike is so palpable that it wasn't really needed. And K.C. Wells did good, really good with the romance she put in there. I can't wait to read the last book, but I'm also a bit sad since it will be the last one.
Reread August 2022
Reread August 2022
October 23, 2019
Cozy mysteries have a special place in my heart and this one was amazing!
November 19, 2019
Many consider Naomi Teedle the village witch. Most people avoid her except when they have need of her herbs and potions. She lives alone on the outskirts of Merrychurch, and that’s fine by everyone—old Mrs. Teedle is not the most pleasant of people. But when she is found murdered, her mouth bulging with her own herbs and roots, suddenly no one has a bad word to say about her. Jonathon de Mountford is adjusting to life up at the manor house, but it’s not a solitary life: pub landlord Mike Tattersall sees to that. Jonathon is both horrified to learn of the recent murder and confused by the sudden reversal of public opinion. Surely someone in the village had reason to want her dead? He and Mike decide it’s time for them to step in and “help” the local police with their investigation. Only problem is, their sleuthing uncovers more than one suspect—and the list is getting longer…
Review.
Dear K.C. Wells,
I enjoyed the first book in this series and reviewed it at DA. I was very much looking forward to "meeting" Mike and Jonathon again and for the most part I was not disappointed. As blurb tells you quiet village of Merrychurch now became a scene for another murder.
Of course one has to stretch your disbelief barrier a little bit to accept that murders started popping up since Jonathon decided to take a permanent residence in the village, but it was not a problem for me. The book even pokes a gentle fun about the shows set in quiet English towns with many murders. I do watch "Midsomer murders" after all :).
Jonathon is adjusting to the life in the village and to be4ng contemporary "lord of the manor". He and Mike keep working on their relationship and I really loved how it was moving forward. Only three months passed since the events of the first book and Jonathon may feel that not that much time passed, but he does seem to be quite comfortable with the strong feelings he has for Mike and vice versa.
“JONATHON ROLLED over in bed, smiling to himself to find Mike still there, on his side facing the window, obviously fast asleep. It wasn’t as if Mike shared Jonathon’s bed every night, not that Jonathon would mind that in the slightest, but Jonathon loved those nights when he heard the crunch of gravel outside as Mike drove his 4x4 onto the drive, and a thrill of anticipation rippled through him.
I love it when he stays the night. Jonathon hadn’t had many relationships in his life thus far, and he knew it was still early days. The signs were good, however, in spite of the reception Mike had received from Jonathon’s father—enough to cause frostbite in the middle of August. Thankfully, Thomas de Mountford’s career kept him busy enough that visits to Merrychurch would be few and far between.”
Jonathon and Mike decide to investigate the murder of Naomi Teedle and this time I thought the reason they got involved was a little bit more far fetched than in the first book, but Naomi Teedle indeed was one of the Jonathon's tenants so I could buy that part. I also thought they took the investigation on because they liked doing the investigating. Mike is also a former cop, so he is a competent investigator and he is just immensely curious as to what is going on around him and a smart man all around. It bears repeating, this is an amateur sleuth subgenre of the mystery genre and if this stretches your disbelief too much, this book may not be for you.
I once again thought that the book did a nice balancing act. Mike and Jonathon absolutely do inform a local police about their findings and share information with local constable Graham. They are a little more vary of the policeman coming to "help" Graham to investigate, but even being vary did not make them act like idiots in my opinion. I was glad that the trend continued from the first book.
I thought the mystery was overall very well done. The writer took care to introduce a lot of suspects and several people may have had motives. I liked how Jonathon and Mike kept narrowing the list of suspects and how they tried to search for the new information, doing investigation the best way they could. I mean Mike is a former cop, so he does know methods and technique, but I really did think that Jonathon did not act like an idiot at all. He consulted with Mike and he was not being a fool, he restrained himself to finding new information almost till the very end of the story.
While I thought that their relationship proceeded to develop very nicely and I had nothing but sympathy and respect for both men. There was a moment in Jonathon's relationship with his father that caused me serious scratching of my head.
I also feel that first twenty or so percent of the book were exceptionally slow. I know cozy mystery is not supposed to move fast, but this was VERY slow IMO.
Grade: B.
Review.
Dear K.C. Wells,
I enjoyed the first book in this series and reviewed it at DA. I was very much looking forward to "meeting" Mike and Jonathon again and for the most part I was not disappointed. As blurb tells you quiet village of Merrychurch now became a scene for another murder.
Of course one has to stretch your disbelief barrier a little bit to accept that murders started popping up since Jonathon decided to take a permanent residence in the village, but it was not a problem for me. The book even pokes a gentle fun about the shows set in quiet English towns with many murders. I do watch "Midsomer murders" after all :).
Jonathon is adjusting to the life in the village and to be4ng contemporary "lord of the manor". He and Mike keep working on their relationship and I really loved how it was moving forward. Only three months passed since the events of the first book and Jonathon may feel that not that much time passed, but he does seem to be quite comfortable with the strong feelings he has for Mike and vice versa.
“JONATHON ROLLED over in bed, smiling to himself to find Mike still there, on his side facing the window, obviously fast asleep. It wasn’t as if Mike shared Jonathon’s bed every night, not that Jonathon would mind that in the slightest, but Jonathon loved those nights when he heard the crunch of gravel outside as Mike drove his 4x4 onto the drive, and a thrill of anticipation rippled through him.
I love it when he stays the night. Jonathon hadn’t had many relationships in his life thus far, and he knew it was still early days. The signs were good, however, in spite of the reception Mike had received from Jonathon’s father—enough to cause frostbite in the middle of August. Thankfully, Thomas de Mountford’s career kept him busy enough that visits to Merrychurch would be few and far between.”
Jonathon and Mike decide to investigate the murder of Naomi Teedle and this time I thought the reason they got involved was a little bit more far fetched than in the first book, but Naomi Teedle indeed was one of the Jonathon's tenants so I could buy that part. I also thought they took the investigation on because they liked doing the investigating. Mike is also a former cop, so he is a competent investigator and he is just immensely curious as to what is going on around him and a smart man all around. It bears repeating, this is an amateur sleuth subgenre of the mystery genre and if this stretches your disbelief too much, this book may not be for you.
I once again thought that the book did a nice balancing act. Mike and Jonathon absolutely do inform a local police about their findings and share information with local constable Graham. They are a little more vary of the policeman coming to "help" Graham to investigate, but even being vary did not make them act like idiots in my opinion. I was glad that the trend continued from the first book.
I thought the mystery was overall very well done. The writer took care to introduce a lot of suspects and several people may have had motives. I liked how Jonathon and Mike kept narrowing the list of suspects and how they tried to search for the new information, doing investigation the best way they could. I mean Mike is a former cop, so he does know methods and technique, but I really did think that Jonathon did not act like an idiot at all. He consulted with Mike and he was not being a fool, he restrained himself to finding new information almost till the very end of the story.
While I thought that their relationship proceeded to develop very nicely and I had nothing but sympathy and respect for both men. There was a moment in Jonathon's relationship with his father that caused me serious scratching of my head.
I also feel that first twenty or so percent of the book were exceptionally slow. I know cozy mystery is not supposed to move fast, but this was VERY slow IMO.
Grade: B.
July 3, 2021
In "Roots of All Evil," K.C. Wells returns us to the very charming, very British village of Merrychurch, with Jonathon organizing a Guy Fawkes Bonfire Night Party complete with fireworks at the manor. We meet up again with familiar characters as well as a new-to-us villager Mrs. Teedle, who inspires varying amounts of distrust and disgust, while others call her the village witch. And when Mrs. Teedle is found murdered, Jonathon and Mike put themselves on the case again to solve the mystery.
The author does a great job doling out clues bit by bit while tossing some red herrings into the mix and keeping the story interesting. I like how this book focuses a bit more on the relationship between Jonathon and Mike and how they have moved into a easy domesticity. Or as Jonathan says:
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
The author does a great job doling out clues bit by bit while tossing some red herrings into the mix and keeping the story interesting. I like how this book focuses a bit more on the relationship between Jonathon and Mike and how they have moved into a easy domesticity. Or as Jonathan says:
"I guess the honeymoon is definitely over."As in the first book, there is no on-page sex but I like how their relationship is freshingly angst-free and between two reasonable adults confident in their own skins and just hoping to find someone with whom to share their life. 4 stars for another entertaining cozy book in the "Merrychurch Mysteries" series and let's hope there are many more to come!
Mike snorted. "Sweetheart, the honeymoon was over the first morning you rolled onto your side, smuggled up against me, and farted."
Jonathon gave him the sweetest smile he could muster. "How does the saying go? 'If you can't beat 'em, join 'em?' Because that's all I was doing."
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
October 7, 2019
More accurately, it's 4.8 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Sometimes, you open a book and are just not in the right mood for it. Unconsciously you’d prefer to read another genre, or another kind of novel, or whatever. That’s what happened when I started reading “Roots of Evil”. But—and that’s what I love about reading, that’s what I love about good books—inexorably, the farther I got, the more I was drawn in. Alright, Paris weather started to become more and more autumnal, in a ghastly, cold and wet way, and there I was in the evenings, stuck beneath a cosy duvet, heating on, a glass of red wine within reach, and all of a sudden, this seemed just like the right thing to read.
This is the second novel in the “Merrychurch Mysteries”-series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel, which was a good point—I haven’t read #1 (but put it on my TBR). I won’t dwell on the plot. Suffice it to say that this is what I really would call a perfect cosy murder mystery with a slight gay twist. We have two MCs living in a small village somewhere in England. Jonathon de Mountford, lord of the manor, world-traveller and renowned photographer, and Mike Tattersall, former cop and now owner of the local pub. They have met in book #1, if I caught that right, where they a) solved their first murder mystery with their amateur sleuthing techniques, and b) became an item. They’re now a cosy couple, young love still making their hearts beat faster, but already comfortable with each other, comfortable with their love, setting those little habits and rituals couples will set one step after the other. Both are likeable characters, their interactions filled with mutual tenderness, wit and humour, acceptance of the other’s characteristics and fancies, and openness. No tortured questionings of one’s feelings, no self-induced dramas, no unsaid things leading to misunderstandings, but love and trust. A soothing couple, a cute couple. Cosy.
The setting adds to the overall cosy feeling (have I used the word “cosy” already? Oops, I guess I did). Merrychurch seems to be exactly what you’d think of when someone said “quaint old village in rural England”. Cute houses, little shops with droll shop owners, a forbidden-looking forest, people you can’t help imagining clad in tweet and wellingtons while they walk their dogs, not to mention The Manor, Jonathon’s home, and the village pub. It even includes the odd old woman people see as the village witch. We don’t get to know her much because, as her bad luck (and the author’s imagination) would have it, she’s the murder victim. That’s when, in little bits and pieces, very much like in an Agatha Christie-novel, some of the best-kept village secrets are unearthed relentlessly by our couple of amateur sleuths. We get a little taste of high-society drama with Jonathon’s highly dislikeable father with a (quite foreseeable and a tad far-fetched) happy-ending-for-now to it that adds just that tiny bit of tension the novel would otherwise be missing.
Alright, some clues might be a bit too obvious—and I found out rather early on who would be the murderer. I have to admit, I found it out because that was the person I wanted to be the murderer, not because I’m so clever or because the clues were that obvious. Alright, there were some improbable twists and turns. But, honestly, my overall feeling was that of reading a solid, well-paced, humorous murder mystery. No unnecessary suspense, just a plain, good, old whodunnit with that cute couple, all of it solidly planned, solidly written in seemingly effortless prose (the hardest to achieve), typo- and error-free (yes, that is possible)—even the commas seemed all to be in place. If you prefer car cases and dramatic turns, throbbing genitals and steamy sex scenes, this might be too smooth for you. But for those who like their cosy read from time to time, for those who love to get a book that smells of blazing open fires, cinnamon-and-apple pies, and the odd cuppa, I can only recommend this book.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This review has been originally posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
Sometimes, you open a book and are just not in the right mood for it. Unconsciously you’d prefer to read another genre, or another kind of novel, or whatever. That’s what happened when I started reading “Roots of Evil”. But—and that’s what I love about reading, that’s what I love about good books—inexorably, the farther I got, the more I was drawn in. Alright, Paris weather started to become more and more autumnal, in a ghastly, cold and wet way, and there I was in the evenings, stuck beneath a cosy duvet, heating on, a glass of red wine within reach, and all of a sudden, this seemed just like the right thing to read.
This is the second novel in the “Merrychurch Mysteries”-series, but it can be read as a stand-alone novel, which was a good point—I haven’t read #1 (but put it on my TBR). I won’t dwell on the plot. Suffice it to say that this is what I really would call a perfect cosy murder mystery with a slight gay twist. We have two MCs living in a small village somewhere in England. Jonathon de Mountford, lord of the manor, world-traveller and renowned photographer, and Mike Tattersall, former cop and now owner of the local pub. They have met in book #1, if I caught that right, where they a) solved their first murder mystery with their amateur sleuthing techniques, and b) became an item. They’re now a cosy couple, young love still making their hearts beat faster, but already comfortable with each other, comfortable with their love, setting those little habits and rituals couples will set one step after the other. Both are likeable characters, their interactions filled with mutual tenderness, wit and humour, acceptance of the other’s characteristics and fancies, and openness. No tortured questionings of one’s feelings, no self-induced dramas, no unsaid things leading to misunderstandings, but love and trust. A soothing couple, a cute couple. Cosy.
The setting adds to the overall cosy feeling (have I used the word “cosy” already? Oops, I guess I did). Merrychurch seems to be exactly what you’d think of when someone said “quaint old village in rural England”. Cute houses, little shops with droll shop owners, a forbidden-looking forest, people you can’t help imagining clad in tweet and wellingtons while they walk their dogs, not to mention The Manor, Jonathon’s home, and the village pub. It even includes the odd old woman people see as the village witch. We don’t get to know her much because, as her bad luck (and the author’s imagination) would have it, she’s the murder victim. That’s when, in little bits and pieces, very much like in an Agatha Christie-novel, some of the best-kept village secrets are unearthed relentlessly by our couple of amateur sleuths. We get a little taste of high-society drama with Jonathon’s highly dislikeable father with a (quite foreseeable and a tad far-fetched) happy-ending-for-now to it that adds just that tiny bit of tension the novel would otherwise be missing.
Alright, some clues might be a bit too obvious—and I found out rather early on who would be the murderer. I have to admit, I found it out because that was the person I wanted to be the murderer, not because I’m so clever or because the clues were that obvious. Alright, there were some improbable twists and turns. But, honestly, my overall feeling was that of reading a solid, well-paced, humorous murder mystery. No unnecessary suspense, just a plain, good, old whodunnit with that cute couple, all of it solidly planned, solidly written in seemingly effortless prose (the hardest to achieve), typo- and error-free (yes, that is possible)—even the commas seemed all to be in place. If you prefer car cases and dramatic turns, throbbing genitals and steamy sex scenes, this might be too smooth for you. But for those who like their cosy read from time to time, for those who love to get a book that smells of blazing open fires, cinnamon-and-apple pies, and the odd cuppa, I can only recommend this book.
October 22, 2019
Well, this certainly did NOT turn out how I expected it to but damn was it good. I had a feeling of some who were involved in this murder, but I was off on some. I’ve really got to brush up on my crime solving skills. I’m lacking lately lol. And it definitely ended on a note I wasn’t expecting either. So many twists and turns in this book and each one is a surprise. And the very last surprise, I anticipate will be the funniest of all. But we will have to see what happens with that later. I hope.
Jonathon decided they needed to have a big bonfire. Sort of a celebration of life and such. It became a huge turnout with fireworks and all. Along with a surprise visit from a neighbor and tenant he knew nothing about. And from the looks and attitudes of the people from the village, she wasn’t too well liked either. But Jonathon couldn’t figure out why, because she seemed like a hoot of an individual. But when he went to give her her raffle prize the next day, they found her dead with tons of roots stuffed in her mouth. And Jonathon came home with something from what he touched in her home. As they start digging into the investigation, against the wishes of the DI again, lol, they find a hell of a lot of secrets and things going on on the down low. The suspects are piling up left and right and all for different reasons. And when it comes to finding the actual killer…..the killer gives himself away in more ways than one. And it’s mind boggling.
Nothing like a good murder mystery to get the blood pumping. And I love this series for more than one reason. It’s all about the plot and what’s going on. But it’s fun at the same time. Mike and Jonathon have finally gotten to the L word stage and it’s so intimate. But this book and series, it’s not all about the sex. It’s all about the mystery and their actual relationship. How well they work together, how well they are together. But it also involves the community. And that’s what started this whole thing. A bonfire to join the community. To get to know the people, seeing as he’s now lord of the manor, as Mike likes to tease him. I just love this book and series because there’s so much too. The characters are fascinating, the secrets, trying to solve the mystery on your own with them. It’s just a great book to curl up to. And for me today, it was perfect because it was a cool rainy day with a mystery in my lap. I’m excited to see how Mike and Jonathan continue on as “Sherlock and Holmes”. Lol. And I’ve loved seeing the new characters that came into play into this as well. Lily is amazing and I just loved her.
If you guys haven’t read this series yet, you’re missing out. It’s a good mystery, but with fun, snark and sassiness that only K.C. can provide in her way. It’s been fun to try to figure it out and match wits with Mike and Jonathon as they try to solve the crimes. I can’t wait for #3!
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Jonathon decided they needed to have a big bonfire. Sort of a celebration of life and such. It became a huge turnout with fireworks and all. Along with a surprise visit from a neighbor and tenant he knew nothing about. And from the looks and attitudes of the people from the village, she wasn’t too well liked either. But Jonathon couldn’t figure out why, because she seemed like a hoot of an individual. But when he went to give her her raffle prize the next day, they found her dead with tons of roots stuffed in her mouth. And Jonathon came home with something from what he touched in her home. As they start digging into the investigation, against the wishes of the DI again, lol, they find a hell of a lot of secrets and things going on on the down low. The suspects are piling up left and right and all for different reasons. And when it comes to finding the actual killer…..the killer gives himself away in more ways than one. And it’s mind boggling.
Nothing like a good murder mystery to get the blood pumping. And I love this series for more than one reason. It’s all about the plot and what’s going on. But it’s fun at the same time. Mike and Jonathon have finally gotten to the L word stage and it’s so intimate. But this book and series, it’s not all about the sex. It’s all about the mystery and their actual relationship. How well they work together, how well they are together. But it also involves the community. And that’s what started this whole thing. A bonfire to join the community. To get to know the people, seeing as he’s now lord of the manor, as Mike likes to tease him. I just love this book and series because there’s so much too. The characters are fascinating, the secrets, trying to solve the mystery on your own with them. It’s just a great book to curl up to. And for me today, it was perfect because it was a cool rainy day with a mystery in my lap. I’m excited to see how Mike and Jonathan continue on as “Sherlock and Holmes”. Lol. And I’ve loved seeing the new characters that came into play into this as well. Lily is amazing and I just loved her.
If you guys haven’t read this series yet, you’re missing out. It’s a good mystery, but with fun, snark and sassiness that only K.C. can provide in her way. It’s been fun to try to figure it out and match wits with Mike and Jonathon as they try to solve the crimes. I can’t wait for #3!
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
April 28, 2020
I'm a fan of the series. Mystery books have always been a love of mine, and this combination of a mystery case along with a budding romance just works. The small town setting is lovely to read about though I would probably not live there myself. :)
October 22, 2019
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It’s a cozy mystery with the emphasis on solving the murder that happened in the sleepy village of Merrychurch, England. The continuing romance between Jonathon and Mike is perfectly weaved through all the twists and turns of the mystery plot.
KC Wells is a master at world-building, setting the scenes, and creating intriguing characters. The story takes you right back to the mystery series we know so well from television. The small village of Merrychurch in the English countryside, where nothing happens until evil comes upon the villagers. Every gossip in the churchyard and local pub adds to the puzzle the amateur sleuths want to solve. No one has seen or done anything, but suddenly everyone seems to have a motive.
The author kept me in the dark until the very end, when several pieces fell into place. But even then, she had a sweet surprise waiting.
KC Wells is a master at world-building, setting the scenes, and creating intriguing characters. The story takes you right back to the mystery series we know so well from television. The small village of Merrychurch in the English countryside, where nothing happens until evil comes upon the villagers. Every gossip in the churchyard and local pub adds to the puzzle the amateur sleuths want to solve. No one has seen or done anything, but suddenly everyone seems to have a motive.
The author kept me in the dark until the very end, when several pieces fell into place. But even then, she had a sweet surprise waiting.
October 25, 2019
In this second cozy mystery in the Merrychurch series, I continue to be impressed with the storytelling and character development. I enjoyed the mystery, enjoyed Jonathon and Mike's sleuthing as well as the continued growth of their relationship. Once again the supporting characters are both memorable and entertaining and Jonathon's father is back yet again to cause more strife. It is here that I had my one issue with a storyline arc-I really couldn't wrap my brain around Jonathon's "plan" to handle his father; it didn't work for me.
That being said, overall I enjoyed this very much. It took me a little longer this time to figure out the "whodunnit," and there were multiple resolutions to said crime as well as multiple storylines wrapped up and a few twists, some I saw coming, and some I did not, which I appreciate in a mystery. This was a fun ride, and I'm definitely sticking around to see what happens next.
**ARC for review**
That being said, overall I enjoyed this very much. It took me a little longer this time to figure out the "whodunnit," and there were multiple resolutions to said crime as well as multiple storylines wrapped up and a few twists, some I saw coming, and some I did not, which I appreciate in a mystery. This was a fun ride, and I'm definitely sticking around to see what happens next.
**ARC for review**
October 22, 2019
A great return to Merrychurch with Jonathan and Mike. If you love cozy murder mystery books, this is well worth reading. There is something so appealing about these two characters, and so many things that they say and do make them oh so real.
Both books in this series have great 'who dunnit's' that are not glaringly obvious right from the outset. They had me fully invested in finding the who, what and where.
I love KC Wells as an author, and while the Merrychurch Mysteries are different from her other books, different is definately not a bad thing.
Both books in this series have great 'who dunnit's' that are not glaringly obvious right from the outset. They had me fully invested in finding the who, what and where.
I love KC Wells as an author, and while the Merrychurch Mysteries are different from her other books, different is definately not a bad thing.
October 14, 2019
There's nothing like a good murder/mystery to relax with...Kc certainly knows how to keep you turning the page..It was great getting back with Jonathon and Mike..They really are so good together...They're pretty good at solving things too....I thought i'd guess who did it but yeah I was wrong....It can't be easy writing a murder book and getting it all just so, keeping people guessing....Kc does it just right and I can't wait for the next one x
July 6, 2020
3.75 stars rounded up
Not only that Jonathon de Mountford is settling in as Lord of the Manor in the small English town of Merrychurch, he’s also enjoying the new relationship with pub landlord Mike Tattersall. Unfortunately, his peaceful life is disrupted when one of his tenants, Mrs. Teedle, dubbed “old town witch” by some people, is found murdered in her home. Jonathon and Mike decide to do their own amateur sleuthing – and the list of suspects is relatively long, from the local chemist to the Mayor himself!
I love murder mystery set in a small village – thanks to the experience of reading Mrs. Maple as kids. I enjoyed the first book, and was very happy when I found out that Wells continued the series. I liked both Jonathon and Mike – and the fact that this has low steam, meaning the story and the sleuthing is not bogged down by numerous gratuitous sex scenes.
ANYWAY, for the murder mystery first! There were definitely A LOT of secrets revealed about the old-town witch. I loved that both Jonathon and Mike did their sleuthing, used their own network of friends, but still respected the village’s cop. Jonathon and Mike didn’t try to chase glory, they didn’t mind sharing what they know, even if they keep some information first because they want to explore further. AND they DID solve the crime!!
In terms of the romance, well, like I said previously, it was low steam. I may not be convinced with the quick timeline of them declaring that they were in love. But hell, that’s my problem not the characters.
I was a little worried about the ending. No, not because Jonathan and Mike were heading to Splitville… but Jonathon was planning something to avoid his father’s demand to provide the next line of de Mountford family, and well, I wasn’t really happy with the way that is headed.
I guess I have to read the next book (if it’s continued) to see how it goes.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Not only that Jonathon de Mountford is settling in as Lord of the Manor in the small English town of Merrychurch, he’s also enjoying the new relationship with pub landlord Mike Tattersall. Unfortunately, his peaceful life is disrupted when one of his tenants, Mrs. Teedle, dubbed “old town witch” by some people, is found murdered in her home. Jonathon and Mike decide to do their own amateur sleuthing – and the list of suspects is relatively long, from the local chemist to the Mayor himself!
I love murder mystery set in a small village – thanks to the experience of reading Mrs. Maple as kids. I enjoyed the first book, and was very happy when I found out that Wells continued the series. I liked both Jonathon and Mike – and the fact that this has low steam, meaning the story and the sleuthing is not bogged down by numerous gratuitous sex scenes.
ANYWAY, for the murder mystery first! There were definitely A LOT of secrets revealed about the old-town witch. I loved that both Jonathon and Mike did their sleuthing, used their own network of friends, but still respected the village’s cop. Jonathon and Mike didn’t try to chase glory, they didn’t mind sharing what they know, even if they keep some information first because they want to explore further. AND they DID solve the crime!!
In terms of the romance, well, like I said previously, it was low steam. I may not be convinced with the quick timeline of them declaring that they were in love. But hell, that’s my problem not the characters.
I was a little worried about the ending. No, not because Jonathan and Mike were heading to Splitville… but Jonathon was planning something to avoid his father’s demand to provide the next line of de Mountford family, and well, I wasn’t really happy with the way that is headed.
I guess I have to read the next book (if it’s continued) to see how it goes.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
October 15, 2019
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
We return to Merrychurch a few months after book 1 finished and Jonathon and Mike have been dating for a few months. Their romance is coming along nicely but I love yous haven’t been exchanged yet. Jonathon hosts a bonfire and fireworks for the town and we get to meet more members of the community only for one of them to turn up dead the next morning.
This story is delightful. Even through Mike and Jonathon have no business snooping around to undercover the murderer everyone in town expects them to do it, even the local coppers. Some of the residents are even eager to pass information along. There are plenty of suspects and while I had my ideas on who did it, I was wrong.
This is such a fun mystery set in a quaint English village with an interesting bunch of characters. I liked the continuing romance between Mike and Jonathon and I even liked that the story faded to black when it was time for our couple to get between the sheets. It fit with the grove of the story. Roots of Evil was great and I look forward to seeing what Jonathon and Mike get up to next.
We return to Merrychurch a few months after book 1 finished and Jonathon and Mike have been dating for a few months. Their romance is coming along nicely but I love yous haven’t been exchanged yet. Jonathon hosts a bonfire and fireworks for the town and we get to meet more members of the community only for one of them to turn up dead the next morning.
This story is delightful. Even through Mike and Jonathon have no business snooping around to undercover the murderer everyone in town expects them to do it, even the local coppers. Some of the residents are even eager to pass information along. There are plenty of suspects and while I had my ideas on who did it, I was wrong.
This is such a fun mystery set in a quaint English village with an interesting bunch of characters. I liked the continuing romance between Mike and Jonathon and I even liked that the story faded to black when it was time for our couple to get between the sheets. It fit with the grove of the story. Roots of Evil was great and I look forward to seeing what Jonathon and Mike get up to next.
October 28, 2019
I really like this series.#
It was a long time after I started to read MM that I also found that I liked books with a good story, romance and a mystery instead of sex all the time. All the sex in these books are off the page and its quite refreshing to just love the mystery.
A good one this time, although Merrychurch is beginning to be alot like Midsommer. I do hope that there are more books in this series.
It was a long time after I started to read MM that I also found that I liked books with a good story, romance and a mystery instead of sex all the time. All the sex in these books are off the page and its quite refreshing to just love the mystery.
A good one this time, although Merrychurch is beginning to be alot like Midsommer. I do hope that there are more books in this series.
October 28, 2019
https://optimumm.blog/2019/10/28/revi...
Jonathon and Mike are back. Our two adorable amateur detectives have a new mystery to resolve in the not so quiet village of Merrychurch.
Three months after the dreadful event of the summer, Jonathon, as the new lord of the manor, organizes a great bonfire in his property. The entire town is present, and it’s a perfect occasion for Jonathon to meet more inhabitants of Merrychurch.
When Mike and Jon go to see Naomi Teedle, the old village witch, they don’t expect to find her body. A murder had been committed in their village, and Mike and Jonathon decide to investigate it…again.
Roots of Evil by K.C. Well is a Sequel to Truth Will Out. I was happy to have a new mystery to solve with my favorite detectives.
Naomi Teedle was known as the village witch, so why would someone want to see her dead? That’s what Mike and Jonathon want to know. Three months after their encounter, they are a couple, they don’t hide who they are for each other, and they are just them. The village seems to accept them even if Jon’s dad seems to be reluctant and is obsessed with an heir.
Jon and Mike are still in the honeymoon phase. They’re still getting to know each other, but their growing feelings can’t be denied any more even if they fear being rejected by the other.
I love this book more than Truth Will Out. K.C. Wells uses the same ingredients. A good mystery, a murder, a list of potential killer and Mike’s and Jonathon’s mind. It was captivating and funny. Mike and Jonathon have grown together as a couple. If before they seemed like a unit during their encounters, now, as a couple, they’re one. They’re complementary in everything, from their mind to their love.
Their banters are hilarious, and I had a good laughed with them.
I loved their peaceful and sweet life. I love how, between two interviews with the potential killer, the author gave us a piece of their life, their feelings, and their project.
I happily recommend this book; it’s my favorite between you and me!
5 stars for Sherlock and Watson
Jonathon and Mike are back. Our two adorable amateur detectives have a new mystery to resolve in the not so quiet village of Merrychurch.
Three months after the dreadful event of the summer, Jonathon, as the new lord of the manor, organizes a great bonfire in his property. The entire town is present, and it’s a perfect occasion for Jonathon to meet more inhabitants of Merrychurch.
When Mike and Jon go to see Naomi Teedle, the old village witch, they don’t expect to find her body. A murder had been committed in their village, and Mike and Jonathon decide to investigate it…again.
Roots of Evil by K.C. Well is a Sequel to Truth Will Out. I was happy to have a new mystery to solve with my favorite detectives.
Naomi Teedle was known as the village witch, so why would someone want to see her dead? That’s what Mike and Jonathon want to know. Three months after their encounter, they are a couple, they don’t hide who they are for each other, and they are just them. The village seems to accept them even if Jon’s dad seems to be reluctant and is obsessed with an heir.
Jon and Mike are still in the honeymoon phase. They’re still getting to know each other, but their growing feelings can’t be denied any more even if they fear being rejected by the other.
I love this book more than Truth Will Out. K.C. Wells uses the same ingredients. A good mystery, a murder, a list of potential killer and Mike’s and Jonathon’s mind. It was captivating and funny. Mike and Jonathon have grown together as a couple. If before they seemed like a unit during their encounters, now, as a couple, they’re one. They’re complementary in everything, from their mind to their love.
Their banters are hilarious, and I had a good laughed with them.
I loved their peaceful and sweet life. I love how, between two interviews with the potential killer, the author gave us a piece of their life, their feelings, and their project.
I happily recommend this book; it’s my favorite between you and me!
5 stars for Sherlock and Watson
October 20, 2019
Blurb summarizes the book quite well so I won’t rehash.
As I noted in my review of book one, The Truth Will Out, this is my kind of cozy mystery. Quaint setting -in this case Merrychurch, England - complete with a manor house, a tea shop, idyllic country lanes and Ye Old Pub. The village inhabitants are quick to praise and even quicker to condemn, all while holding their own secrets close to hearts.
Jonathan and Mike are still new to their budding relationship and are hesitant to put labels on feelings. They enjoy each other’s company, but are comfortable in their own skin and activities. Johnathan has some unresolved emotions to work through, which aren’t entirely resolved in this book. I greatly enjoy this slower romantic pacing.
Many of the quirks that niggled me in book one were absent here: Mike’s “tell-all!” sister and the antagonistic detective (though there is a new one, but his role is mostly off-page). Mike and Johnathan are good about keeping the local constable well informed and don’t hesitate to call in the police as needed. So, from a “cozy mystery” standpoint, the characters were well executed.
The mystery itself was rather delightful and I enjoyed watching it unfold. Johnathan’s father and the Detective Inspector added the right amount of antagonism to prevent everything from sliding over into saccharine sweet. In my review of book one, I noted there were several plot threads left hanging and I hoped they would be resolved in book two. I fully admit, after a year, I’ve sadly forgotten what those were.
Bottom line – an enjoyable, feel good cozy mystery. Great for a cold rainy afternoon where you can curl up with a cuppa hot cocoa and forget about everything else for a while.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
As I noted in my review of book one, The Truth Will Out, this is my kind of cozy mystery. Quaint setting -in this case Merrychurch, England - complete with a manor house, a tea shop, idyllic country lanes and Ye Old Pub. The village inhabitants are quick to praise and even quicker to condemn, all while holding their own secrets close to hearts.
Jonathan and Mike are still new to their budding relationship and are hesitant to put labels on feelings. They enjoy each other’s company, but are comfortable in their own skin and activities. Johnathan has some unresolved emotions to work through, which aren’t entirely resolved in this book. I greatly enjoy this slower romantic pacing.
Many of the quirks that niggled me in book one were absent here: Mike’s “tell-all!” sister and the antagonistic detective (though there is a new one, but his role is mostly off-page). Mike and Johnathan are good about keeping the local constable well informed and don’t hesitate to call in the police as needed. So, from a “cozy mystery” standpoint, the characters were well executed.
The mystery itself was rather delightful and I enjoyed watching it unfold. Johnathan’s father and the Detective Inspector added the right amount of antagonism to prevent everything from sliding over into saccharine sweet. In my review of book one, I noted there were several plot threads left hanging and I hoped they would be resolved in book two. I fully admit, after a year, I’ve sadly forgotten what those were.
Bottom line – an enjoyable, feel good cozy mystery. Great for a cold rainy afternoon where you can curl up with a cuppa hot cocoa and forget about everything else for a while.
Review is cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews
A copy of the book was provided by the author and publisher in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
October 20, 2019
Mike and Jonathon are back and another mystery is afoot.
Set in the small town of Merrychurch, the community residents are very familiar with each other, as well as the goings on in town. After an evening of celebration, the town 'witch' is found dead in her home. Unfortunately, there is much more to the story...
So far, both books in this series have enchanted me. I love the relationship between Mike and Jonathon. They are so very perfect together, as though they were made for each other.
The mystery and intrigue created an exciting adventure in this book. I had thought I knew who had done it, but there was more and more until I had no idea. Queue another twist after that! So many turns and forbidden relationships, it was really fun to be along for the ride!
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted.*
Set in the small town of Merrychurch, the community residents are very familiar with each other, as well as the goings on in town. After an evening of celebration, the town 'witch' is found dead in her home. Unfortunately, there is much more to the story...
So far, both books in this series have enchanted me. I love the relationship between Mike and Jonathon. They are so very perfect together, as though they were made for each other.
The mystery and intrigue created an exciting adventure in this book. I had thought I knew who had done it, but there was more and more until I had no idea. Queue another twist after that! So many turns and forbidden relationships, it was really fun to be along for the ride!
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted.*
October 22, 2019
Another lovely cozy mystery by K.C. Wells. I loved the atmosphere in the book, the picturesque village, the many wonderful interactions between the MC’s and all the secondary characters. New and familiar faces abound. I’ve taken a liking to several of the villagers and I was afraid for their safety and innocence both. We see a bit more of Mike and Jon, who are funny and sweet together, and watching them grow stronger as a couple was a delight even though they did have to face a couple of relationship hurdles, in between sleuthing adventures. I’m not a fan of Jonathon’s father nor the lengths Jon seems to be prepared to go to in order to keep him happy. The murder mystery was well thought out with lots of surprising, and even quite emotional, twists. It seems as though everyone has secrets in Merrychurch. I wonder who’ll be next to meet with an untimely end in this supposedly peaceful little village...
October 23, 2019
When Mike and Jonathon begin to uncover the truth about what happened to Naomi their world is filled with excitement and new emotions. The two men work well together and find their bond growing stronger. Each man is strong and able to stand on his own and together they are unstoppable. Their story is a nice read that has a few twists that will keep you engaged and turning those pages. It is full of just the right amount of angst and mystery. I enjoyed seeing their relationship deepen as they followed the clues and tried to figure out just who the guilty party was. It was interesting to meet the different residents as the story moves along and the men follow the clues. Many of the residents have secrets and few are ready to divulge them.
This is a nice cozy mystery that holds your attention all the way to the end and has this reader excited to see just what other mysteries are in store for Mike and Jonathon in their future.
This is a nice cozy mystery that holds your attention all the way to the end and has this reader excited to see just what other mysteries are in store for Mike and Jonathon in their future.
November 18, 2019
Who killed Naomi Teedle? Who was Naomi Teedle? They are the questions that need to be answered. This is book 2 in the Merrychuch Mysteries and K.C. Wells has got me hooked. I love the whole idea. Small village in England where murder seems to be a way of life. I wont bother writing a synopsis as that can be found anywhere but I have to say that I thoroughly enjoyed Roots Of Evil and hope that we will see more in this series.
Highly recommended.
Highly recommended.
October 22, 2019
We have return to Merrychurch and I couldn't wait to see what is going to happen I this one. Mike and Jonathin are back at in again with this murder/mystery. K.C. Wells had me guessing at who had done it. Everytime I think I figure it out, I was wrong. I love the guessing and then find out who did it. I can't wait to see what happens next.
October 22, 2019
I really enjoyed reading this charming, engaging, endearing, poignant, and delightful visit back to Merrychurch. Filled with mystery, murder, an intriguing whodunit, and more of Jonathan and Mike's growing relationship, it had me glued to my ereader from beginning to end. I recommend getting this gem ASAP!
April 23, 2021
Small village... big secrets! My kind of read! *grin*
I also want to mention again how refreshing it is to not have my mystery overwhelmed by a bunch of sex scenes... all the sex is literally "off-page"! So, if this would be a problem for you... be forewarned!
So many suspects... so many secrets... and Mike and Jonathan just seem to grow more and more in love... not to mention their amazing "sleuthing" skills! LOL!!!
Several lives were changed by this murder, but hopefully, some things will stay the same! I guess I will find out when I read the 3rd and final book of the series... A Novel Murder!
I also want to mention again how refreshing it is to not have my mystery overwhelmed by a bunch of sex scenes... all the sex is literally "off-page"! So, if this would be a problem for you... be forewarned!
So many suspects... so many secrets... and Mike and Jonathan just seem to grow more and more in love... not to mention their amazing "sleuthing" skills! LOL!!!
Several lives were changed by this murder, but hopefully, some things will stay the same! I guess I will find out when I read the 3rd and final book of the series... A Novel Murder!
October 23, 2019
This is an excellent addition to the Merrychurch Mysteries series and I love everything about it. The best part of this story are the many surprising twists and turns in the plot and the totally unexpected ending. Jonathon and Mike are a sweet couple and they work well together while trying to uncover the murderer. They do have to deal with Jonathon's irritating and domineering father again but their relationship is rock solid. There are several intriguing secondary characters that add a lot to the story as well. I love the ending and I can't wait to read the next book in this exciting and well written series.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
October 25, 2019
if you love a really good whodunit then this book is for you. K.c Wells has done an amazing job of having you on the edge of your seat trying to figure out whodunit. K.c did a fantastic job of keeping me guessing the whole way through. All the time watching Jonathon and Mike's relationship growing more and more. This will keep you glued right to the very end. I loved it. I highly recommend reading book 1 first Truth will Out. I'm looking forward to what is next in the town of Merrychurch
April 3, 2020
Just as good as the first one, and kept me guessing the whole time. Although, is every dude having a gay affair in this town?
November 21, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
I enjoyed this book just as much as I did the first one! Mike and Jonathon playing detective and trying to solve these murders before the Detective Inspector can is the best thing ever.
I really liked that we saw more of Mike and Jonathon’s relationship in this one! The sexy scenes are still fade-to-black, but there were more detailed implications in this one as to where those scenes were headed 😉
And the scandals!! My, oh my. So many scandals for such a small village. I cannot wait to see what book three has in store for us.
I enjoyed this book just as much as I did the first one! Mike and Jonathon playing detective and trying to solve these murders before the Detective Inspector can is the best thing ever.
I really liked that we saw more of Mike and Jonathon’s relationship in this one! The sexy scenes are still fade-to-black, but there were more detailed implications in this one as to where those scenes were headed 😉
And the scandals!! My, oh my. So many scandals for such a small village. I cannot wait to see what book three has in store for us.
October 29, 2019
I'm going to say very little about this story. The set-up is clear from the blurb and I'm afraid anything I may add about the actual solving of the mystery might spoil this wonderful book for other readers.
I will say that it was a delight to reconnect with Jonathon and Mike and watch their relationship develop despite those who would throw a spanner in the works. As with the first book in this series, the mystery was perfectly plotted with a liberal doze of well place red herrings and a more than plausible solution. The secondary characters are fascinating and well-developed and the balance between mystery and overall story was just about perfect.
My two favourite genres have always been mysteries and romance and the Merrychurch Mysteries have literally given me the best of both worlds twice. I can't wait to see what is going to happen next but have no doubt that it will, once again, be an unputdownable story.
I will say that it was a delight to reconnect with Jonathon and Mike and watch their relationship develop despite those who would throw a spanner in the works. As with the first book in this series, the mystery was perfectly plotted with a liberal doze of well place red herrings and a more than plausible solution. The secondary characters are fascinating and well-developed and the balance between mystery and overall story was just about perfect.
My two favourite genres have always been mysteries and romance and the Merrychurch Mysteries have literally given me the best of both worlds twice. I can't wait to see what is going to happen next but have no doubt that it will, once again, be an unputdownable story.
December 31, 2019
A charming little village in the English countryside, the lord of the manor and his boyfriend the pub owner doing their best sleuthing, and the local eccentric found murdered while concocting what might have been poison… Welcome to the second installment of K.C. Wells’ “Merrychurch Mysteries’. It was wonderful to rejoin Jonathon and Mike as they worked to uncover the latest culprit, while also spending time with secondary characters I grew quite fond of during the first book.
Mrs. Teadle was a tenant on Jonathon’s estate although he only met her for the first time the night before they found her body. Village opinion seems to vary based on who they talk to as to whether she was simply an old lady with an affinity for homeopathic remedies and making her own jam, to the local witch creating potions in her cauldron. Regardless, it doesn’t take the guys long to see they’ve got quite the list of potential suspects from the chemist, to the mayor’s wife, and even extending to their MP (Member of Parliament).
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
Mrs. Teadle was a tenant on Jonathon’s estate although he only met her for the first time the night before they found her body. Village opinion seems to vary based on who they talk to as to whether she was simply an old lady with an affinity for homeopathic remedies and making her own jam, to the local witch creating potions in her cauldron. Regardless, it doesn’t take the guys long to see they’ve got quite the list of potential suspects from the chemist, to the mayor’s wife, and even extending to their MP (Member of Parliament).
Please find my full review at Rainbow Book Reviews
November 19, 2020
Mike and Jonathan are likable and depth is still needed for these characters.
The mystery is ok. I wish there had been a little more intrigue and danger though - the culprits just willingly confess to Mike and Jonathan and quietly surrender to the police. Lol
The part that was really disappointing and tedious is the last minute out of nowhere bearding situation. I don’t understand why. Jonathan is out and proud to the village and he and Mike are an out couple. Jonathan is also financially independent from his father. So why the need to placate him with a fake straight relationship? Reading that whole set up made me tired. 🙄
Murder at a writer’s festival for book three is right up my alley. The bearding situation is making me hesitant to give it a try though.
The mystery is ok. I wish there had been a little more intrigue and danger though - the culprits just willingly confess to Mike and Jonathan and quietly surrender to the police. Lol
The part that was really disappointing and tedious is the last minute out of nowhere bearding situation. I don’t understand why. Jonathan is out and proud to the village and he and Mike are an out couple. Jonathan is also financially independent from his father. So why the need to placate him with a fake straight relationship? Reading that whole set up made me tired. 🙄
Murder at a writer’s festival for book three is right up my alley. The bearding situation is making me hesitant to give it a try though.
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