On her return from a cruise ship gig Bebe Bollinger learns that fellow Welsh singer Bonnie Tyler has decided to enter a European Song comptition for the UK. While Bebe jealously watches the pre-publicity trail for ‘Eurovision’ in Malmö, a string of 'odd accidents' endangers several participants of the competition. This stirs her desire for playing detective again but also a curiosity to check out the suitability of Eurovision for her own career. Follow Bebe's continued search for fame and a comeback before it's too late, step into the weird world that is Eurovision fandom and see how Bebe gets on with her naughty daughter and deals with those evil TV presenters.
Christoph Fischer was born in Germany, near the Austrian border, as the son of a Sudeten-German father and a Bavarian mother. Not a full local in the eyes and ears of his peers he developed an ambiguous sense of belonging and home in Bavaria. He moved to Hamburg in pursuit of his studies and to lead a life of literary indulgence. After a few years he moved on to the UK where he now lives in a small town in West Wales. He and his partner have three Labradoodles to complete their family. Christoph worked for the British Film Institute, in Libraries, Museums and for an airline. ‘The Luck of The Weissensteiners’ was published in November 2012; 'Sebastian' in May 2013 and 'The Black Eagle Inn' in October 2013 - which completes his 'Three Nations Trilogy'. "Time to Let Go", his first contemporary work was published in May 2014, and “Conditions”, another contemporary novel, in October 2014. The sequel “Conditioned” was published in October 2015. His medical thriller "The Healer" was released in January 2015 and his second thriller “The Gamblers” in June 2015. He published two more historical novels “In Search of a Revolution” in March 2015 and “Ludwika” in December 2015. He has written several other novels which are in the later stages of editing and finalisation.
Another fun read in this cozy mystery series, Book 2 of the Bebe Bollinger series. Although this book is part of a series, both books could definitely be read as standalones. Each of the books takes us into the life of flamboyant almost 'has been' singer Bebe Bollinger, looking to make her musical comeback after the peak of her fame began to fade.
In Over my Dead Body, that's exactly what Bebe plans to avoid when she decides to kill two birds with one stone by going to visit the annual Eurovision music contest being held in Sweden. When Bebe's friend Tom the blogger, convinces her to join him in Malmo for the event to put herself back in the limelight and gossips to her that mysterious accidents have been occurring on the set, Bebe decided it would be a great idea to get herself some publicity while getting another chance to put her amateur detective skills to work.
Fischer has a fun writing style in this book and brings us some wonderfully painted colorful characters and descriptions of the goings on, enlightening us to what Eurovision represents. As well as being introduced to some of the characters taking part in the competition, Fischer brings back Beth, ex-cop and friend who she invites into her private investigation, as well as her troublesome daughter Helena who seems to know where to find her mother no matter what country she is in.
This book is a quick-paced. fun read and I do hope Mr. Fischer will be coming out with a new story about Bebe again. Bebe could probably have her own TV series with the no shortage of pickles she gets herself into.
I found this book sort of hard to get in to when I first started reading it. At the beginning, I was wondering if I would be able to get through it, as I found it sort of hard to follow, and it seemed to detail small details but without much substance to it. After the first 20-30 pages, though, the story became much more interesting with interesting characters which kept me guessing to the very end. I will say that there was one character that as soon as they showed up, I suspected that they might have been a guilty party and I was right, but the rest of it really surprised me. I think this would actually make a good movie. I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys murder mystery books, Eurovision, or both. The reason I'm not giving this book five stars is because of the first few pages.
MUSICAL MURDERS and MAYHEM in Malmö, Sweden This entertaining read took me back to my youth. When I knew Malmö, Sweden and Copenhagen, Denmark well and had a big interest in Eurovision. That being said I think it is a good book for all readers, no need to be familiar with Eurovision or location. I like the main character Bebe Bollinger. it is refreshing to have a modern heroine who feels young and active at 60, looking for a future in entertainment. I liked the supporting cast and her interactions with all of them. The quest for the criminal as well as her desire to succeed and get attention as a singer and presenter were a nice mix and fun to read. Mr. Fischer's books are always worthwhile and this one was a personal favorite.
This is Book 2 of a cozy mystery series starring once again, legendary singer, Bebe Bollinger. Though this book is part of a series it can be a stand alone novel.
In this new story Bebe is still working on getting her career in high gear once again as in past years. She becomes intrigued by the Eurovision TV show that showcases singers from over six different countries. When an accident involving stage equipment nearly kills one of the entertainers Bebe is drawn into another mystery. She encourages her now good friend, Beth, a former policewoman, to go on ahead to work the case as a PI. Bebe intends to go there later after she finishes her latest project.
The story keeps the reader engaged as the pace grows and the accidents continue to pile up with more near casualties. The author describes the Eurovision TV Competition in much detail making the reader feel as it he/she were there.
Another enjoyable read by this creative author who continues to produce quality books in different genres. I have read other books by Christoph Fischer and enjoyed them all.
UK singer, Bebe Bollinger is working on her career. Well, in essence it's comeback. Bebe's blog friend, Tom wants her to investigate the global songfest being held in Sweden known as Eurovision. At first Bebe isn't interested, however, when a chain of radio/blog/talk shows lead her to Eurovision...Bebe decides to listen to Tom's concerns.
It seems someone is targeting the talent at the show. Bebe has a past of solving a murder in Wales, and Tom just knows she can get to the bottom of this situation.
Bebe, finds a new following, however, it doesn't change the fact that someone is indeed after the UK talent, both stars and journalists. Bebe and her friend, Beth (a former policewoman,) turn to solve the case.
This is a sequel and hopefully soon to be considered the second in a great cozy murder series. The writing, dialog, and scenes from a musician's viewpoints are unique and make for great reading.
Being a huge fan of Eurovision, I was excited to read a murder mystery which incorporates my favourite show. The story features an ageing singer battling to stay relevant. She reckons getting involved with Eurovision will help with this but encounters several suspicious 'accidents' in the lead up to the final. I was disappointed as I found the writing weak and incoherent at times. It did state this was a sequel in the Bebe Bollinger series but I expected more of a recap of key info for those like me who haven't read the previous book. Some scenes and characters felt pointless and poorly described so I was left confused at times and it was hard to care about anything or anyone. The best thing about the book was the accurate references to Eurovision and the contestants, otherwise this just did not work as an engaging murder mystery.
Great to see Bebe Bollinger back! Love this character with her quirky ways. While still working on her comeback Bebe is asked by her friend Tom if she would help him with a problem at the Eurovision song contest. Bebe agrees and enlists the help of Beth (a former policewoman). Beth and Bebe teamed up once to solve a murder in Wales and work well together.
There is much to enjoy in this book thanks to excellent writing by Mr Fischer. A fascinating insight into Eurovision. I could feel the atmosphere and excitement of this song contest.
I love how Bebe deals with various unusual situations, in fact let's just say I really enjoyed the whole experience of Bebe's latest adventure and hope there is many more to come.
I bought this book as an avid crime fiction fan with a passion for Eurovision. It delivered on the latter front, providing insight into the contest and both the backstage arrangements and associated events. However, I found the plot to be chaotic and confused, and I feel that the mystery element took a backseat to the information about Eurovision.
The book really was a good read and enjoyable, however it took a long time for the story to evolve. With most murder mysteries, the trouble starts much earlier. As I say, it was not bad ,and for Eurovision fans such as myself, it was fun reading about the Eurovision stars. But in the end it didn't really know my mind to be honest.
An easy read, simple and obvious plot. Its pretty much exactly as it looks from the cover. If you want a gritty murder mystery this isn't the book but if you want something lighthearted with a eurovision twist then I'd pick this one up
I really enjoyed the first Bebe Bollinger mystery and was excited to see that Christoph Fischer had a second one penned. Bollinger is an old school singing star who has experienced a new flash of popularity, and is trying to find her way to a new Big Comeback. She ends up at the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmao, Sweden, after a few suspect events, and ends up singing, solving mysteries and getting involved in all sorts of craziness! A great light hearted read and if you are a Eurovision fan, I am sure you will love it even more!