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Kate Palmer #5
A Body on the Beach
It’s Tinworthy village’s summer fete: a brass band, cream teas, gentle gossip... and a body on the beach? The party’s just getting started for super sleuth Kate Palmer!
Kate Palmer thought spending the day at Tinworthy’s annual summer party would involve sea air, sunshine and Cornish cream cake – how very wrong she was! When Kate goes for a cliff-top walk she is shocked to spot the body of Sienna Stone – Cornwall’s biggest gossip – on the sandy beach below.
Rumours swirl around the close-knit community and all eyes are on Kate. Half the village saw her arguing with Sienna at the party earlier that day. It was the usual bickering between neighbours, but when Kate finds herself in the frame can she – and her new husband Woody Forrest – solve the puzzling death and clear her name?
There’s a long list of people who might have wanted to push Sienna – her long-suffering husband Irvin, her jealous younger sister Sally and Timmy Thomson, the man who idolised her, not to mention all the villagers who felt the sharp end of her tongue. Finding out the truth isn’t going to be easy…
Just as Kate thinks she’s getting closer to an answer, an unexpected afternoon visitor shares some curious information over tea and scones that sets her on an entirely different path. And soon she starts to wonder if she might be in real danger too…
Can Kate solve the curious case before the murderer declares the party over? Or have her days of sleuthing come to an end?
Kate Palmer thought spending the day at Tinworthy’s annual summer party would involve sea air, sunshine and Cornish cream cake – how very wrong she was! When Kate goes for a cliff-top walk she is shocked to spot the body of Sienna Stone – Cornwall’s biggest gossip – on the sandy beach below.
Rumours swirl around the close-knit community and all eyes are on Kate. Half the village saw her arguing with Sienna at the party earlier that day. It was the usual bickering between neighbours, but when Kate finds herself in the frame can she – and her new husband Woody Forrest – solve the puzzling death and clear her name?
There’s a long list of people who might have wanted to push Sienna – her long-suffering husband Irvin, her jealous younger sister Sally and Timmy Thomson, the man who idolised her, not to mention all the villagers who felt the sharp end of her tongue. Finding out the truth isn’t going to be easy…
Just as Kate thinks she’s getting closer to an answer, an unexpected afternoon visitor shares some curious information over tea and scones that sets her on an entirely different path. And soon she starts to wonder if she might be in real danger too…
Can Kate solve the curious case before the murderer declares the party over? Or have her days of sleuthing come to an end?
273 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 25, 2022
823 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Dee MacDonald
16 books264 followersThe Runaway Wife is Dee’s first (published) novel but in fact she wrote her very first book – at around seven years of age! This was a love story which she duly illustrated before sewing all the pages together up one side. Writing was what she ‘was good at’ in school and she won several essay competitions, but then life got in the way and she didn’t pick up a pen again until after retirement.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
Dee left Scotland and headed for London at the beginning of the swinging sixties. After typing her way round the West End she became an air stewardess on long haul routes with BA (then BOAC) for eight years. After that she did market research at Heathrow for both the government statistics and for BA, she became a sales rep and was the receptionist at the Thames Television Studios in Teddington when they had the franchise.
She then ran a small B&B for ten years in Cornwall, where she lives with her husband. Dee has one son and two grandsons who live locally.
Her second book, The Getaway Girls, will be published in July.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 17, 2022
This is the fifth book in a well written series set in one of my favourite parts of the world, Cornwall.
Kate Palmer is a nurse in a local medical practice who fancies herself as a sleuth. In A Body on the Beach she unfortunately discovers said body and for various reasons becomes one of the suspects for the murder. Of course she sets out to clear her own name as well as to discover 'who dunnit'.
I am enjoying this series very much. The characters are well written, the setting is beautiful and the stories are no more outrageous than most cosies. One minor disagreement I had with Kate in this book is that she felt it was okay for her to use the Medical centre's records to find out her son's girlfriend's home address. I would have thought that was very much not okay.
Anyway it was a small thing in what was a very good book. Well worth reading.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Kate Palmer is a nurse in a local medical practice who fancies herself as a sleuth. In A Body on the Beach she unfortunately discovers said body and for various reasons becomes one of the suspects for the murder. Of course she sets out to clear her own name as well as to discover 'who dunnit'.
I am enjoying this series very much. The characters are well written, the setting is beautiful and the stories are no more outrageous than most cosies. One minor disagreement I had with Kate in this book is that she felt it was okay for her to use the Medical centre's records to find out her son's girlfriend's home address. I would have thought that was very much not okay.
Anyway it was a small thing in what was a very good book. Well worth reading.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 12, 2022
Book 5 in the Kate Palmer series and I loved it as much as the previous 4 ( and the authors other work ) the books are so easy to read, the characters, regulars in the series ( now feels like I know them ) as well as some new faces, wonderful and the setting in Tinworthy, Cornwall always great to read about and imagine going there for a holiday
This time we have a ‘celeb’ death in the village and many a suspect and Kate cant resist trying to solve the mystery, even more so than usual as she is ‘Prime Suspect’….
There is a TV wedding, a village fair, trips to Bristol and Exeter, a returning son to the fold and many a gin and tonic with Kate’s Sister Angela, all of which for fans of the series will be music to their ears, if you haven’t tried these books give them a go, this can be read as a stand alone but the series is so good I would start at Book 1
Enjoyable, humorous, relaxing read from a fabulous author
10/10
5 Stars
This time we have a ‘celeb’ death in the village and many a suspect and Kate cant resist trying to solve the mystery, even more so than usual as she is ‘Prime Suspect’….
There is a TV wedding, a village fair, trips to Bristol and Exeter, a returning son to the fold and many a gin and tonic with Kate’s Sister Angela, all of which for fans of the series will be music to their ears, if you haven’t tried these books give them a go, this can be read as a stand alone but the series is so good I would start at Book 1
Enjoyable, humorous, relaxing read from a fabulous author
10/10
5 Stars
April 28, 2022
“Can she solve the case – and save herself? Or have her days of sleuthing come to an end?”
Oh Dear – It’s over already!
I finished this lovely book in just a couple of sittings, and yet still managed to immerse myself in its pages, savouring every single word.
As an avid follower of this series, I feel as though I have got to know the resident characters of fictional Tinworthy quite well, so reading a new chapter in the life of the village always feels like ‘going home’ to Cornwall, one of my most favourite parts of the country, even if there does seem to be a disproportionately high number of murders for such an intimate location.
But have no fear! You don’t need to have read this series from the beginning to feel part of the village life, as all the books work great as stand alone stories, with author Dee MacDonald having honed the knack of bringing any new readers up to date with necessary back-story details, to perfection, with just a few cleverly placed sentences and as a seamless part of the current storyline, all without ever making her regular followers feel short-changed.
At this point in my reviews, I usually try to provide a short, no spoiler overview of the storyline. However on this occasion, the premise provides just about all the relevant facts of the case, so to add anything further would certainly be information ‘too much detail’, for anyone planning to read the book. Suffice to say that my suspect list was every bit as long as Kate’s own, although I felt quite pleased with myself that in addition to Kate’s many names, my own list included that of the eventual murderer, although I had no idea about a motive, just a strong feeling that I didn’t like or trust them. There are always plenty of red herrings and twists in any case with which Kate is involved and this one proved to be particularly tricky, with the final sting in the tail being totally unexpected by just about everyone. When the reasons for the murders were revealed, I was really surprised at just how clever author Dee MacDonald had been in weaving together two seemingly unrelated strands of the storyline, one of which Kate herself had unwittingly been a party to. The police were definitely barking up the wrong tree completely, so it’s a good job Kate had ignored all their warnings about getting too involved in the case, as on this occasion, she herself had been one of the prime suspects!
This time Kate not only almost broke my fourth golden rule for what makes a great fiction storyline – that the main protagonist shouldn’t end up dead – but she also almost took Woody and Jack down with her, although I have to say that they were as ‘up for the chase’ as much as Kate herself was. In fact, all three of them were willing orchestrators of the final showdown, which almost inevitably wasn’t going to end well, so is Woody still really unhappy about Kate’s constant sleuthing, or is he secretly beginning to come round to the idea of ‘keeping his hand in’ with the occasional police investigation. After all, Kate really does need a calming influence when it comes to an ongoing situation, as her thought processes can end up all over the place, despite the many suspect and motive lists she makes, which often makes Woody smile. He also has the knack of knowing when Kate is about to dash off and follow up a new lead, when he really doesn’t think it is such a good idea. However, as much as he tries to keep her in check, even down to actually making her promise not to follow up on a particularly risky lead, she will always find a way to outwit him, or change a detail or two, so that she can say that she honestly never disobeyed his specific request.
Well structured, multi-layered and highly textured, this storyline is fluently written in short, easy to navigate chapters, which keep the pace of the action non-stop and ever evolving. Plenty of wonderfully assured observational and descriptive narrative, together with some excellent conversational dialogue, offers a really good sense of time and place, making it all too easy to follow events as they unfold, whilst still not being able to spot the real villain of the piece. In this story, revenge is definitely a dish best served cold, although past traumas do have to be allowed for, as no one really understands the fragility of the human mind, despite the outward show of bluff and bravado.
Dee has created a multi-faceted, well drawn and defined cast of characters, who I could clearly visualise in my minds eye, especially Kate’s elder sister Angie, and her current partner, Irishman Fergal – as soon as you meet them, you’ll see what I mean about them being memorable and they are certain to raise a smile or two. Whether they are on the side of good or bad, all are authentically realistic and genuinely believable in the individual roles which have been created for them. Theirs is collectively a strong voice, with which they tell their own story, although some are more reliable witnesses, easy to connect with and relate to than others. The core cast of characters are like old friends and such are the dynamics between them, I almost feel that I could knock on any Tinworthy door, or visit any of the businesses and receive a warm welcome, so long as Kate or Woody were with me to break the ice a little first. Each episode generally features a couple of ‘outsiders’, who really don’t fit into village life at all and seldom tend to stick around, especially if they end up dead or in custody!
Kate Palmer decided not to take her husband’s name on marriage, well would you, when your surname is already a very fitting anagram of ‘Marple’. The similarities don’t stop with the shared name either, and even though there is quite a substantial age difference between them, Kate is definitely a modern day version of that famous amateur sleuth, even right down to some of her personality traits. With each passing story, I am growing more and more confused as to whether Kate reminds me more of Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher. I suppose it rather depends on which side of the pond you live, as to where your loyalties lie!
Now that Kate and Woody have made their joint home in Kate’s charming cottage, her dog Barney gets double the walks, double the love and no doubt double the treats! He makes great cover for Kate when she is off on one of her ‘fishing’ missions for clues, a ploy which Woody has just cottoned onto and one he will no doubt be watching out for in the future!
Oh Dear – It’s over already!
I finished this lovely book in just a couple of sittings, and yet still managed to immerse myself in its pages, savouring every single word.
As an avid follower of this series, I feel as though I have got to know the resident characters of fictional Tinworthy quite well, so reading a new chapter in the life of the village always feels like ‘going home’ to Cornwall, one of my most favourite parts of the country, even if there does seem to be a disproportionately high number of murders for such an intimate location.
But have no fear! You don’t need to have read this series from the beginning to feel part of the village life, as all the books work great as stand alone stories, with author Dee MacDonald having honed the knack of bringing any new readers up to date with necessary back-story details, to perfection, with just a few cleverly placed sentences and as a seamless part of the current storyline, all without ever making her regular followers feel short-changed.
At this point in my reviews, I usually try to provide a short, no spoiler overview of the storyline. However on this occasion, the premise provides just about all the relevant facts of the case, so to add anything further would certainly be information ‘too much detail’, for anyone planning to read the book. Suffice to say that my suspect list was every bit as long as Kate’s own, although I felt quite pleased with myself that in addition to Kate’s many names, my own list included that of the eventual murderer, although I had no idea about a motive, just a strong feeling that I didn’t like or trust them. There are always plenty of red herrings and twists in any case with which Kate is involved and this one proved to be particularly tricky, with the final sting in the tail being totally unexpected by just about everyone. When the reasons for the murders were revealed, I was really surprised at just how clever author Dee MacDonald had been in weaving together two seemingly unrelated strands of the storyline, one of which Kate herself had unwittingly been a party to. The police were definitely barking up the wrong tree completely, so it’s a good job Kate had ignored all their warnings about getting too involved in the case, as on this occasion, she herself had been one of the prime suspects!
This time Kate not only almost broke my fourth golden rule for what makes a great fiction storyline – that the main protagonist shouldn’t end up dead – but she also almost took Woody and Jack down with her, although I have to say that they were as ‘up for the chase’ as much as Kate herself was. In fact, all three of them were willing orchestrators of the final showdown, which almost inevitably wasn’t going to end well, so is Woody still really unhappy about Kate’s constant sleuthing, or is he secretly beginning to come round to the idea of ‘keeping his hand in’ with the occasional police investigation. After all, Kate really does need a calming influence when it comes to an ongoing situation, as her thought processes can end up all over the place, despite the many suspect and motive lists she makes, which often makes Woody smile. He also has the knack of knowing when Kate is about to dash off and follow up a new lead, when he really doesn’t think it is such a good idea. However, as much as he tries to keep her in check, even down to actually making her promise not to follow up on a particularly risky lead, she will always find a way to outwit him, or change a detail or two, so that she can say that she honestly never disobeyed his specific request.
Well structured, multi-layered and highly textured, this storyline is fluently written in short, easy to navigate chapters, which keep the pace of the action non-stop and ever evolving. Plenty of wonderfully assured observational and descriptive narrative, together with some excellent conversational dialogue, offers a really good sense of time and place, making it all too easy to follow events as they unfold, whilst still not being able to spot the real villain of the piece. In this story, revenge is definitely a dish best served cold, although past traumas do have to be allowed for, as no one really understands the fragility of the human mind, despite the outward show of bluff and bravado.
Dee has created a multi-faceted, well drawn and defined cast of characters, who I could clearly visualise in my minds eye, especially Kate’s elder sister Angie, and her current partner, Irishman Fergal – as soon as you meet them, you’ll see what I mean about them being memorable and they are certain to raise a smile or two. Whether they are on the side of good or bad, all are authentically realistic and genuinely believable in the individual roles which have been created for them. Theirs is collectively a strong voice, with which they tell their own story, although some are more reliable witnesses, easy to connect with and relate to than others. The core cast of characters are like old friends and such are the dynamics between them, I almost feel that I could knock on any Tinworthy door, or visit any of the businesses and receive a warm welcome, so long as Kate or Woody were with me to break the ice a little first. Each episode generally features a couple of ‘outsiders’, who really don’t fit into village life at all and seldom tend to stick around, especially if they end up dead or in custody!
Kate Palmer decided not to take her husband’s name on marriage, well would you, when your surname is already a very fitting anagram of ‘Marple’. The similarities don’t stop with the shared name either, and even though there is quite a substantial age difference between them, Kate is definitely a modern day version of that famous amateur sleuth, even right down to some of her personality traits. With each passing story, I am growing more and more confused as to whether Kate reminds me more of Miss Marple or Jessica Fletcher. I suppose it rather depends on which side of the pond you live, as to where your loyalties lie!
Now that Kate and Woody have made their joint home in Kate’s charming cottage, her dog Barney gets double the walks, double the love and no doubt double the treats! He makes great cover for Kate when she is off on one of her ‘fishing’ missions for clues, a ploy which Woody has just cottoned onto and one he will no doubt be watching out for in the future!
June 25, 2022
Kate Palmer is a busy woman. Newly married, a part-time nurse, a mother who sees her son after he had been away for a while, and a super sleuth. She always finds herself in a position to solve a murder. This time, however, the reason is very personal. She finds out that she is a suspect in the murder of Sienna Stone. Not only did she find the body, but she was seen having an argument with Ms. Stone.
Kate’s argument with Sienna was seen by more than one, and this makes her a suspect In Sienna’s murder. Therefore, Kate, along with new husband, Woody Forrest, is determined to prove her innocence while also finding the actual killer. It comes as no surprise that there are many likely suspects, and they include Sienna’s husband and even her younger sister Sally. So Katie looks for the motive and the killer, even though this may put her in a place of danger.
Meanwhile, Kate hopes to reconnect with her son and their lies another layer to an already enjoyable story. If you have read the series from the beginning like I have, you will come to love Kate, Woody, and others in this truly engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/1PHfL6FY6F4
Kate’s argument with Sienna was seen by more than one, and this makes her a suspect In Sienna’s murder. Therefore, Kate, along with new husband, Woody Forrest, is determined to prove her innocence while also finding the actual killer. It comes as no surprise that there are many likely suspects, and they include Sienna’s husband and even her younger sister Sally. So Katie looks for the motive and the killer, even though this may put her in a place of danger.
Meanwhile, Kate hopes to reconnect with her son and their lies another layer to an already enjoyable story. If you have read the series from the beginning like I have, you will come to love Kate, Woody, and others in this truly engaging series.
Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Please also enjoy my YouTube video review - https://youtu.be/1PHfL6FY6F4
June 23, 2022
A Good Easy Read! Well Worth it!!
Once again, Ms. MacDonald has outdone herself! This is the fifth in the “Kate Palmer”, cozy mystery series and I absolutely loved this one. Kate has finally matured and is coming into her own. It has taken me a few books to warm up to Kate. I found that, for a nurse, she was not very discreet and talked way too much. Now, I am much more comfortable with her as she is much more mature.
Like all series, I recommend that you read them in order. The series is set in Tinworthy, Cornwall. It is a pleasant and easy read. The characters (at least regulars), I have come to know and understand.
This time we have a celebrity, murdered on the beach. Each of the suspects has a good reason for wanting to kill her… even Kate. For once, my suspicions on who the murderer was, was correct. However, I didn’t figure out the “Why” until it was explained. Good one! I was glad to see that Kate was not the token “Damsel in distress” and require her husband, a retired Detective Inspector, to save her. Way to go Kate!
A good, easy read. Well worth it. I highly recommend.
Once again, Ms. MacDonald has outdone herself! This is the fifth in the “Kate Palmer”, cozy mystery series and I absolutely loved this one. Kate has finally matured and is coming into her own. It has taken me a few books to warm up to Kate. I found that, for a nurse, she was not very discreet and talked way too much. Now, I am much more comfortable with her as she is much more mature.
Like all series, I recommend that you read them in order. The series is set in Tinworthy, Cornwall. It is a pleasant and easy read. The characters (at least regulars), I have come to know and understand.
This time we have a celebrity, murdered on the beach. Each of the suspects has a good reason for wanting to kill her… even Kate. For once, my suspicions on who the murderer was, was correct. However, I didn’t figure out the “Why” until it was explained. Good one! I was glad to see that Kate was not the token “Damsel in distress” and require her husband, a retired Detective Inspector, to save her. Way to go Kate!
A good, easy read. Well worth it. I highly recommend.
July 18, 2025
This was better. Kate wasn’t as TSTL and this time her new hubby was the one in danger at the end. I did like that they worked together at times to try and solve the mystery. HOWEVER, Kate needs to not hide things from her hubby! Agnes and Fergus continue on their hot mess express relationship. This was a mystery of jealousy, sibling rivalries, village gossips and of course.. murder.
April 29, 2022
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'A Body On The Beach' by Dee Macdonald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Dee MacDonald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th April 2022.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fifth book in the 'Kate Palmer' Mystery series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'A Body In Seaview Grange' (book 2 in the series) , 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' (book 3 in the series) and 'A Body At The Altar' (book 4 in the series) which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Clare Chase. ' I am a huge fan of all three of those authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Dee and if this is half as good as 'A Body In Seaview Grange', 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' and 'A Body At The Altar' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 38 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cornwall, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been on holiday to Cornwall on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Dee has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Kate Palmer. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Although this is the fifth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Well done Dee on another successful cosy mystery!!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly.
I absolutely LOVE this series and have become so invested in it, always reading the books in one sitting!!
The plot really sucked me in and I really enjoyed curling up on the sofa and getting dragged into this cosy mystery. I was so absorbed I read it in one sitting. The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and traditional and what starts off as one murder becomes quite multi layered with all the characters backgrounds coming out. It was a very compelling read. I would never have guessed who did what and I was completely shocked by the mega twist. An absolutely fantastic read filled with suspense, mystery, twists and much more (I can't say much more as I don't want to spoil it for future readers) Congratulations Dee, it is getting harder and harder to surprise me and you did just that!!! I love the fact that in this book Kate herself is under scrutiny as a suspect herself as it brings in even more tension and suspense. The atmosphere is perfect for this cosy murder mystery and the descriptions leave you feeling the wind in your air and sand on your toes.
I loved meeting all the characters again who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. They have become like friends to me since I've started this series and I enjoy learning more about them each time. I really enjoyed the main characters of Kate, Woody and Angie and think they really worked well together as a team, well Kate and Woody but I also enjoyed Kate and Angie relationship develop and am looking forward to see where it leads in the next book. I have mixed feelings with Fergus but he has definitely got a HUGE personality and I enjoyed meeting Catherine again too too am looking forward to seeing her again. It was lovely to finally meet Kate's son Jack in this :episode' and I'm looking forward to getting to know him more. Jack seems like a really down to earth and friendly guy and it's lovely seeing is relationship with his mum Kate and also seeing Kate as a mum in this book. I am certainly looking forward to reading more Dee McDonald's books especially the first which I still haven't got around to and any further books in this series.
Congratulations Dee on another successful book, keep up the fantastic work and I look forward to meeting Dee, Woody, Angie, Fergal, Jack and Catherine again!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an intriguing, page turning and compelling cosy mystery that is perfect for Agatha Christie, Faith Martin Verity Bright and Claire Chase fans and will have you up until you have finished it.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Cosy Mystery, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, Joy Ellis, Faith Martin, Clare Chase, Verity Bright and anyone who enjoys a good mystery by the fire.
273 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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Review for 'A Body On The Beach' by Dee Macdonald.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Dee MacDonald, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 28th April 2022.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fifth book in the 'Kate Palmer' Mystery series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'A Body In Seaview Grange' (book 2 in the series) , 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' (book 3 in the series) and 'A Body At The Altar' (book 4 in the series) which I highly recommend.
I was originally drawn to this book by its stunning eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that this book is 'Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie, Faith Martin and Clare Chase. ' I am a huge fan of all three of those authors so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I am also a huge fan of Dee and if this is half as good as 'A Body In Seaview Grange', 'A Body At The Tea Rooms' and 'A Body At The Altar' it is sure to be a page turning read. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of 38 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in Cornwall, England 🏴 , UK 🇬🇧. The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually been on holiday to Cornwall on several occasions so am looking forward to seeing if I recognise anywhere that Dee has based the book on.
This book is written in third person perspective and the main protagonist is Kate Palmer. The benefits of third person perspective are that it let's you see the bigger picture of what's going on and you get to know more characters more, what they are thinking and what they are doing. It feels like you get to see the whole picture and not miss out in anything.
Although this is the fifth book in the series I had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
Well done Dee on another successful cosy mystery!!! This book is very smoothly written with vivid descriptions which really help you see what's going on around you as well as the storyline. The blurb and the cover compliment the novel perfectly.
I absolutely LOVE this series and have become so invested in it, always reading the books in one sitting!!
The plot really sucked me in and I really enjoyed curling up on the sofa and getting dragged into this cosy mystery. I was so absorbed I read it in one sitting. The storyline was realistic which I always prefer as it makes it more enjoyable to read when you can see that it is something that could happen. This book is well constructed and traditional and what starts off as one murder becomes quite multi layered with all the characters backgrounds coming out. It was a very compelling read. I would never have guessed who did what and I was completely shocked by the mega twist. An absolutely fantastic read filled with suspense, mystery, twists and much more (I can't say much more as I don't want to spoil it for future readers) Congratulations Dee, it is getting harder and harder to surprise me and you did just that!!! I love the fact that in this book Kate herself is under scrutiny as a suspect herself as it brings in even more tension and suspense. The atmosphere is perfect for this cosy murder mystery and the descriptions leave you feeling the wind in your air and sand on your toes.
I loved meeting all the characters again who are a delightful mix of personalities with intriguing backgrounds and each one was very compelling. They have become like friends to me since I've started this series and I enjoy learning more about them each time. I really enjoyed the main characters of Kate, Woody and Angie and think they really worked well together as a team, well Kate and Woody but I also enjoyed Kate and Angie relationship develop and am looking forward to see where it leads in the next book. I have mixed feelings with Fergus but he has definitely got a HUGE personality and I enjoyed meeting Catherine again too too am looking forward to seeing her again. It was lovely to finally meet Kate's son Jack in this :episode' and I'm looking forward to getting to know him more. Jack seems like a really down to earth and friendly guy and it's lovely seeing is relationship with his mum Kate and also seeing Kate as a mum in this book. I am certainly looking forward to reading more Dee McDonald's books especially the first which I still haven't got around to and any further books in this series.
Congratulations Dee on another successful book, keep up the fantastic work and I look forward to meeting Dee, Woody, Angie, Fergal, Jack and Catherine again!! Here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an intriguing, page turning and compelling cosy mystery that is perfect for Agatha Christie, Faith Martin Verity Bright and Claire Chase fans and will have you up until you have finished it.
Genres covered in this novel include Mystery, Thriller, Cosy Mystery, Police Procedural and Crime Fiction amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Agatha Christie, Joy Ellis, Faith Martin, Clare Chase, Verity Bright and anyone who enjoys a good mystery by the fire.
273 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
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July 15, 2022
I have enjoyed this series of mysteries until now. This book in the series was annoying. The main character is beginning to show herself to be an idiot, ignoring all advice from friends and loved ones, assume she knows best (although she is married to an expert in murder, a former police detective). She is deceitful to her husband, without enough remorse to keep her from investigating on the sly over and over again. I think I am over this series.
April 28, 2022
This is the 5th instalment in the Kate Palmer Mystery series by Dee MacDonald and features experienced practice nurse Kate who relocated from West London to Cornwall along with her sister, Angie three years ago. The sisters live in the picturesque village of Lower Tinworthy, Kate, in the lovely Lavender Cottage, with Angie now at The Old Locker Bistro with her Irish beau, Fergal.
In this instalment, Kate is attending the summer fete in Tinworthy helping out the locals with cuts, bruises and nosebleeds. A woman wanders into the first aid area claiming to be feeling faint and demands a drink. Kate recognises her as Sienna Stone - someone she had a quarrel with about their cars a few months ago. Kate, sixty takes a breather and a Pimm's at her sister's 'Pimm's and Pasty' marquee, then climbs the cliffs to see to her dog. Barney. She hears a shout and then spots a dead body on the beach. Kate is questioned by Detective Inspector Charlotte Martin. Kate's husband, retired DI Woody Forrest, is on hand to figure out whodunnit along with the intrepid Kate and her son, Jack who has shown up from Australia. They begin following leads with a few suspects in mind.
This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring locale. Kate is a caring character, her love for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about and they make an effective sleuthing duo. Kate kept her own name on marriage. (who wouldn't if you're a sleuth and your name is an anagram of Marple?) The tale is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and the other characters are great too, including alcoholic Angie. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with stacks of riveting conversational dialogue and a fulfilling conclusion, A Body on the Beach is the perfect novel to curl up with on a balmy spring evening. A delightful read and very highly recommended I am agog to pick up book #6 in the delightful Kate (Marple) Palmer series.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
In this instalment, Kate is attending the summer fete in Tinworthy helping out the locals with cuts, bruises and nosebleeds. A woman wanders into the first aid area claiming to be feeling faint and demands a drink. Kate recognises her as Sienna Stone - someone she had a quarrel with about their cars a few months ago. Kate, sixty takes a breather and a Pimm's at her sister's 'Pimm's and Pasty' marquee, then climbs the cliffs to see to her dog. Barney. She hears a shout and then spots a dead body on the beach. Kate is questioned by Detective Inspector Charlotte Martin. Kate's husband, retired DI Woody Forrest, is on hand to figure out whodunnit along with the intrepid Kate and her son, Jack who has shown up from Australia. They begin following leads with a few suspects in mind.
This is a superb cosy mystery with plenty of substance but still maintaining that cosy edge, with an alluring locale. Kate is a caring character, her love for sexagenarian Woody is charming to read about and they make an effective sleuthing duo. Kate kept her own name on marriage. (who wouldn't if you're a sleuth and your name is an anagram of Marple?) The tale is a comfortably paced read with a hugely enjoyable plot, and the other characters are great too, including alcoholic Angie. It boasts a fair number of suspects with plausible motives, red herrings and disclosures. A quality, well-plotted cosy with stacks of riveting conversational dialogue and a fulfilling conclusion, A Body on the Beach is the perfect novel to curl up with on a balmy spring evening. A delightful read and very highly recommended I am agog to pick up book #6 in the delightful Kate (Marple) Palmer series.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley. This review is my own unbiased opinion.
June 18, 2022
Great to be back In Tinworthy
Kate Palmer is back at it. Another murder and lots of suspects ....but is the murderer on Kate's list?
I really enjoy this series; the characters, the location and always A great cozy to figure out.
Kate Palmer is back at it. Another murder and lots of suspects ....but is the murderer on Kate's list?
I really enjoy this series; the characters, the location and always A great cozy to figure out.
April 15, 2022
God. This annoyed me in so many ways. Let’s start with the author’s overuse of italics to emphasise things. I read ages ago that it shows poor writing, and I’d agree here. Everything was all “she *knew* that it would be a problem. She had *felt* it right from the start!”
Secondly, the gag-inducing pity that Kate feels for the *poor unfortunate* Beth (her son’s new girlfriend), who grew up in care. Christ on a bike, the appalling assumption of her being some poor Dickensian wretch - starved of affection for years. That is, when Kate isn’t suspecting Beth of things... or judging her (or sanctimoniously telling her hairbands they mustn’t be too judgemental, as the girl plainly craves affection after the sad upbringing she’s had...).
Or shall we look at the fact that Kate goes off amateur sleuthing, tracks down a man she suspects is involved in the murder, and when she realises he’s left a diary behind, she keeps it to herself and then goes to see him the next day - rather than oh I don’t know... handing it to the police? Even worse, she returns it to the man and never mentions it at all to the police!
What about the fact that she lies to her husband about where she’s going even when he’s clearly worried about her? Or the poor writing of the alcoholic sister Angie? Mind you, Kate’s horse can’t be too high, she’s always at the wine herself.
And then there’s the chef who’s pretending to be French, fooling no one, and is abusive to his partner - who just thinks he’s got-tempered and she likes a man with a bit of oomph. And well it’s OK, because he’s got Latin blood and says sorry after... *eye roll*
But the biggest howler for me, was how Kate abused her work access to look up Beth’s address and then see where she lived, even speaking to the lady who lived there, finding out Beth’s past. That’s a HUGE no in healthcare, looking up a person’s confidential details without medical reason! The only reason Kate solved it at all was because of this complete disrespect of GDPR or Caldicott rules. That’s a disciplinary offence!
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review. I definitely won’t be trying any more of this series, or recommending it, sadly.
Secondly, the gag-inducing pity that Kate feels for the *poor unfortunate* Beth (her son’s new girlfriend), who grew up in care. Christ on a bike, the appalling assumption of her being some poor Dickensian wretch - starved of affection for years. That is, when Kate isn’t suspecting Beth of things... or judging her (or sanctimoniously telling her hairbands they mustn’t be too judgemental, as the girl plainly craves affection after the sad upbringing she’s had...).
Or shall we look at the fact that Kate goes off amateur sleuthing, tracks down a man she suspects is involved in the murder, and when she realises he’s left a diary behind, she keeps it to herself and then goes to see him the next day - rather than oh I don’t know... handing it to the police? Even worse, she returns it to the man and never mentions it at all to the police!
What about the fact that she lies to her husband about where she’s going even when he’s clearly worried about her? Or the poor writing of the alcoholic sister Angie? Mind you, Kate’s horse can’t be too high, she’s always at the wine herself.
And then there’s the chef who’s pretending to be French, fooling no one, and is abusive to his partner - who just thinks he’s got-tempered and she likes a man with a bit of oomph. And well it’s OK, because he’s got Latin blood and says sorry after... *eye roll*
But the biggest howler for me, was how Kate abused her work access to look up Beth’s address and then see where she lived, even speaking to the lady who lived there, finding out Beth’s past. That’s a HUGE no in healthcare, looking up a person’s confidential details without medical reason! The only reason Kate solved it at all was because of this complete disrespect of GDPR or Caldicott rules. That’s a disciplinary offence!
I received a free ARC copy of this via NetGalley and the publishers in return for an unbiased review. I definitely won’t be trying any more of this series, or recommending it, sadly.
July 31, 2022
Cosy mystery fans rejoice because the fabulous Kate Palmer is back on the case in A Body on the Beach, the latest gripping instalment of Dee Macdonald’s addictive Cornish crime series.
It’s the Tinworthy village fete and super sleuth Kate Palmer is looking forward to spending the day listening to the brass band, catching up with her neighbours and indulging in far too many sweet treats. With her penchant for solving murders, the most exciting thing Kate hopes to find at the fete is a delicious cream tea, however, the amateur detective should know by now that wherever she goes, trouble always seems to follow! Kate goes on a clifftop walk where she is looking forward to taking in the breath-taking Cornish vistas – she certainly never dreamed that she would instead stumble upon a dead body!
Cornwall’s biggest gossip Sienna Stone has been found dead on the beach and the finger of suspicion is pointing squarely at Kate, who had been seen arguing with her earlier that day. Determined to clear her name and to find out who is behind Sienna’s murder, Kate – alongside her husband, former policeman Woody Forrest – begins to do some sleuthing of her own and uncovers a long list of suspects who all had a very good reason for wanting Sienna dead. From her long-suffering husband to her jealous sister and ardent admirer – not to mention many of Sienna’s neighbours who felt the sharp end of her tongue on many an occasion – Kate’s got quite a challenge on her hands!
But just when she thinks that she might be closer to finding out the truth, an unexpected visitor shares some useful information that makes Kate wonder whether she’s been looking for answers in all the wrong places. However, Kate needs to proceed with caution because the killer is watching – and if she isn’t careful, it will be her dead body that is discovered next.
I’m a huge fan of Dee Macdonald’s Kate Palmer series and A Body on the Beach is another terrific cosy mystery I couldn’t read fast enough. A nail-biting whodunit where nothing is what it initially seems, A Body on the Beach delights with plenty of suspense, tension and intrigue to keep readers glued to its pages.
As always, the village of Tinworthy is a hotbed of secrets, lies and deception, but luckily Kate Palmer is at hand to ensure that order is always restored – helped by her suave and charming husband, Woody.
A fun cosy mystery I thoroughly enjoyed, A Body on the Beach is another winner by Dee Macdonald.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It’s the Tinworthy village fete and super sleuth Kate Palmer is looking forward to spending the day listening to the brass band, catching up with her neighbours and indulging in far too many sweet treats. With her penchant for solving murders, the most exciting thing Kate hopes to find at the fete is a delicious cream tea, however, the amateur detective should know by now that wherever she goes, trouble always seems to follow! Kate goes on a clifftop walk where she is looking forward to taking in the breath-taking Cornish vistas – she certainly never dreamed that she would instead stumble upon a dead body!
Cornwall’s biggest gossip Sienna Stone has been found dead on the beach and the finger of suspicion is pointing squarely at Kate, who had been seen arguing with her earlier that day. Determined to clear her name and to find out who is behind Sienna’s murder, Kate – alongside her husband, former policeman Woody Forrest – begins to do some sleuthing of her own and uncovers a long list of suspects who all had a very good reason for wanting Sienna dead. From her long-suffering husband to her jealous sister and ardent admirer – not to mention many of Sienna’s neighbours who felt the sharp end of her tongue on many an occasion – Kate’s got quite a challenge on her hands!
But just when she thinks that she might be closer to finding out the truth, an unexpected visitor shares some useful information that makes Kate wonder whether she’s been looking for answers in all the wrong places. However, Kate needs to proceed with caution because the killer is watching – and if she isn’t careful, it will be her dead body that is discovered next.
I’m a huge fan of Dee Macdonald’s Kate Palmer series and A Body on the Beach is another terrific cosy mystery I couldn’t read fast enough. A nail-biting whodunit where nothing is what it initially seems, A Body on the Beach delights with plenty of suspense, tension and intrigue to keep readers glued to its pages.
As always, the village of Tinworthy is a hotbed of secrets, lies and deception, but luckily Kate Palmer is at hand to ensure that order is always restored – helped by her suave and charming husband, Woody.
A fun cosy mystery I thoroughly enjoyed, A Body on the Beach is another winner by Dee Macdonald.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 30, 2022
A Body on the Beach by Dee MacDonald is another in the Kate Palmer series of cozy mysteries. This series takes place in Cornwall, is somewhat contemporary, and features an older (60) protagonist as a successful amateur sleuth. All of these facts are recommendations in disguise. Kate and her sister, Angie, have "retired" to Tinworthy in Cornwall. Kate works part-time as a nurse, more part-time since her marriage to retired DI Woody Forrest. Woody tries to keep her away from murder. She runs toward it. They became friends when she was the accused and he was investigating. Now they had been married for three months and it is working out nicely. During the annual festival Kate is working in the first aid tent when an extremely demanding woman enters the tent, pushing aside other patients. Kate is not impressed and escorts her out, only to discover that she is Sienna Stone, the television commentator. The next time she sees the woman it is on the beach, below the cliff from which she has fallen (or been pushed).
Kate, like all amateur sleuths, is curious. Things need to make sense for her and if they don't she find out why. She has an excellent nose for deception. This time there are so many twists and turns that even she is confused. Then, there is the matter of her son, Jack, his return from Australia, and his new girlfriend. Something is off, she simply doesn't know what. Kate and Woody have a good relationship and sometimes she tries to please him by staying out of things. He is a very handsome man and she is constantly aware of that fact as she endeavors to stay fit and as attractive as possible. She walks her dog, daily, and sometimes that takes her near to someone who may be a "suspect," while keeping the letter of her promise to Woody to not go knocking on doors. It is a complicated mystery and one that would not have been solved if not for her nosiness. She is a fabulous character with a small cohort of regular characters in her life that do nothing more than lend it color. Terrific book!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body on the Beach by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #deemacdonald #abodyonthebeach
Kate, like all amateur sleuths, is curious. Things need to make sense for her and if they don't she find out why. She has an excellent nose for deception. This time there are so many twists and turns that even she is confused. Then, there is the matter of her son, Jack, his return from Australia, and his new girlfriend. Something is off, she simply doesn't know what. Kate and Woody have a good relationship and sometimes she tries to please him by staying out of things. He is a very handsome man and she is constantly aware of that fact as she endeavors to stay fit and as attractive as possible. She walks her dog, daily, and sometimes that takes her near to someone who may be a "suspect," while keeping the letter of her promise to Woody to not go knocking on doors. It is a complicated mystery and one that would not have been solved if not for her nosiness. She is a fabulous character with a small cohort of regular characters in her life that do nothing more than lend it color. Terrific book!
I was invited to read a free e-ARC of A Body on the Beach by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #netgalley #bookoutre #deemacdonald #abodyonthebeach
April 13, 2022
It is sunny in Cornwall which is always a plus especially when it's the day of Tinworthy’s summer fair. Working in the medical tent nurse Kate Palmer finds herself busily content as a constant stream of visitors with minor injuries need her tender care. So, when her day is rudely interrupted by a local celebrity unnecessarily demanding her attention, she is less than impressed and makes her feelings clear.
As the day draws towards a successful end Kate walks up to the cliff top, to cool down from both the heat and the confrontation and is horrified to once again discover a dead body. Unfortunately this time Kate had been overheard complaining to her sister Angie about the victim just a short while earlier and is thrust into an investigation once again, but this time as the main suspect!
In this fifth installment of Dee MacDonald's Cornish cosy crime series there have been changes to Kate Palmer's work and home life but she is still adept at being in the wrong place at the wrong time! I definitely enjoyed this once again although unfortunately didn't find the whodunnit aspects at all testing. The personal side of things were wonderful however, and all the main protagonists make an appearance ensuring this book keeps up the high standards of the previous four.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This series is a relaxing treat that is easy to recommend.
As the day draws towards a successful end Kate walks up to the cliff top, to cool down from both the heat and the confrontation and is horrified to once again discover a dead body. Unfortunately this time Kate had been overheard complaining to her sister Angie about the victim just a short while earlier and is thrust into an investigation once again, but this time as the main suspect!
In this fifth installment of Dee MacDonald's Cornish cosy crime series there have been changes to Kate Palmer's work and home life but she is still adept at being in the wrong place at the wrong time! I definitely enjoyed this once again although unfortunately didn't find the whodunnit aspects at all testing. The personal side of things were wonderful however, and all the main protagonists make an appearance ensuring this book keeps up the high standards of the previous four.
I was able to read an advanced copy of this book thanks to NetGalley and the publishers but the opinions expressed are my own. This series is a relaxing treat that is easy to recommend.
April 28, 2022
Winter, summer, spring or autumn. Killers never stop and that means that our amateur sleuth nurse Kate always has her work cut out for her.
Woody would rather like she would not put her nose where it does not belong in order to keep her safe, but Kate being Kate, she cannot stop herself and will not rest before the mystery is solved.
She always seems to be on the wrong place, meaning the place where she discovers bodies, but to me it seems like she is always on the right place, because she manages what the police doesn’t : solving the crimes.
In this book Kate has two things on her mind. On the one hand she wants to find out who is the killer or maybe killers in this case and on the other hand she wants to investigate the girl her beloved son is so besotted with.
Woody is not happy with this and he advises Kate to let the police solve the murder and to let her son work it out for himself. Well, Woody, you could have saved that energy and used it for something else, because everybody knows that when Kate has something in her head, she will not stop before she knows every little thing there is to know. 😊
Kate has made a list of suspects and there is only one person on it she knows is innocent. What about the others though?
A great 5th book that made me smile and had me captivated. 5 stars
Thank you, Dee MacDonald and Bookouture
Woody would rather like she would not put her nose where it does not belong in order to keep her safe, but Kate being Kate, she cannot stop herself and will not rest before the mystery is solved.
She always seems to be on the wrong place, meaning the place where she discovers bodies, but to me it seems like she is always on the right place, because she manages what the police doesn’t : solving the crimes.
In this book Kate has two things on her mind. On the one hand she wants to find out who is the killer or maybe killers in this case and on the other hand she wants to investigate the girl her beloved son is so besotted with.
Woody is not happy with this and he advises Kate to let the police solve the murder and to let her son work it out for himself. Well, Woody, you could have saved that energy and used it for something else, because everybody knows that when Kate has something in her head, she will not stop before she knows every little thing there is to know. 😊
Kate has made a list of suspects and there is only one person on it she knows is innocent. What about the others though?
A great 5th book that made me smile and had me captivated. 5 stars
Thank you, Dee MacDonald and Bookouture
May 3, 2022
The annual Tinnworthy Summer Fair is in full swing. Nurse Kate Palmer, is in charge at the medical tent but has an unfortunate run-in with local celebrity and TV personality, Sienna Stone. Their heated conversation is overheard by numerous fair goers. A bit later, as Kate takes a break and walks up to the nearby cliffs for some fresh sea air, she hears a scream. When she arrives at the top, she looks over the edge to see Sienna - lying dead on the beach. As others arrive, they assume Kate pushed her as many had overheard their earlier encounter in the tent.
Kate knows she didn't push the woman but she is still considered a suspect as are several others who had reason to want the woman dead ... but who actually pushed her and why?
My thoughts:
Kate isn't a real detective but her sleuthing skills and intuition are forces to be reckoned with. The story takes some interesting turns as well as weaving in a bit of romance and some of her families drama. The core characters are well defined and like real life, family and friends can get a bit testy at times but are also fiercely loyal. Some fun scenes and witty dialogue add to the enjoyment of this book.
Admittedly, I had figured out early on "who done it" but wasn't sure why. Following Kate as she sorted it all out kept me turning the pages! Already looking forward to whenever Ms MacDonald publishes the next Kate Palmer Mystery!
Kate knows she didn't push the woman but she is still considered a suspect as are several others who had reason to want the woman dead ... but who actually pushed her and why?
My thoughts:
Kate isn't a real detective but her sleuthing skills and intuition are forces to be reckoned with. The story takes some interesting turns as well as weaving in a bit of romance and some of her families drama. The core characters are well defined and like real life, family and friends can get a bit testy at times but are also fiercely loyal. Some fun scenes and witty dialogue add to the enjoyment of this book.
Admittedly, I had figured out early on "who done it" but wasn't sure why. Following Kate as she sorted it all out kept me turning the pages! Already looking forward to whenever Ms MacDonald publishes the next Kate Palmer Mystery!
June 25, 2022
Kate Palmer is manning the first aid tent at the local fair when Sienna Stone flounces in. Kate is angry about Sienna crashing into her car and quickly sends her away. But within hours, Kate discovers Sienna's body on the beach after being pushed off the cliffs, and finds herself the prime suspect...
A Body on the Beach is the fifth book to feature amateur sleuth Kate Palmer and her now husband, retired police officer Woody Forrest.
Kate can't resist a new investigation especially when she needs to prove her own innoncence. As she digs deeper into the life of Sienna Stone, she finds a collection of suspects and motives. I loved it when Kate's sister points out that Palmer is an anagram of Marple!
Kate is able to use her nursing to access other characters without coming across as nosy. She is supported by her husband Woody and in this book we see her maternal side as her son visits and she has concerns about his new girlfriend. Her relationship with her sister Angie has also become more positive now that Angie's behaviour is more settled.
The case itself concentrates on the motives of the characters and there is no graphic description of violence or forensics. I found the style of writing easy to read and love the traditional setting of a quintessential English village.
A Body on the Beach is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery, continuing a good series.
A Body on the Beach is the fifth book to feature amateur sleuth Kate Palmer and her now husband, retired police officer Woody Forrest.
Kate can't resist a new investigation especially when she needs to prove her own innoncence. As she digs deeper into the life of Sienna Stone, she finds a collection of suspects and motives. I loved it when Kate's sister points out that Palmer is an anagram of Marple!
Kate is able to use her nursing to access other characters without coming across as nosy. She is supported by her husband Woody and in this book we see her maternal side as her son visits and she has concerns about his new girlfriend. Her relationship with her sister Angie has also become more positive now that Angie's behaviour is more settled.
The case itself concentrates on the motives of the characters and there is no graphic description of violence or forensics. I found the style of writing easy to read and love the traditional setting of a quintessential English village.
A Body on the Beach is an enjoyable cosy murder mystery, continuing a good series.
April 13, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of "A Body on the Beach" in exchange for my honest review.
This is book #5 in The Kate Palmer Mysteries and a wonderful addition to the series it is. Kate Palmer, a practice nurse in Tinworthy is once again involved in a murder, only this time not just poking about trying to solve it but she's a suspect. Her husband (retired) DI Woody Forrest as usual keeps telling her to stay out of investigating but Kate has a one-track mind where crime is concerned. It causes a fair bit of tension between the couple. Springer Spaniel Barney is once again in the story and a favourite 'character'.
Kate's son Jack is back from Australia and she hopes he's returned for good and she'll have both her sons close by. He gets involved with a mysterious girl named Beth who claims to have no family, she's just in Cornwall the clean caravans.
A woman who drove into Kate's car 4 months prior to the start of this story was never punished for the damage she caused. She continues on her entitled way in this story and meets with a horrific end. There are plenty of suspects but as Kate narrows in on the truth, she is once again in danger.
A brilliant story and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
This is book #5 in The Kate Palmer Mysteries and a wonderful addition to the series it is. Kate Palmer, a practice nurse in Tinworthy is once again involved in a murder, only this time not just poking about trying to solve it but she's a suspect. Her husband (retired) DI Woody Forrest as usual keeps telling her to stay out of investigating but Kate has a one-track mind where crime is concerned. It causes a fair bit of tension between the couple. Springer Spaniel Barney is once again in the story and a favourite 'character'.
Kate's son Jack is back from Australia and she hopes he's returned for good and she'll have both her sons close by. He gets involved with a mysterious girl named Beth who claims to have no family, she's just in Cornwall the clean caravans.
A woman who drove into Kate's car 4 months prior to the start of this story was never punished for the damage she caused. She continues on her entitled way in this story and meets with a horrific end. There are plenty of suspects but as Kate narrows in on the truth, she is once again in danger.
A brilliant story and I'm already looking forward to the next book in the series.
April 24, 2022
I do enjoy these Kate Palmer stories. While the idea of a woman finding herself in quite so many sticky situations when it comes to murder mysteries might not be entirely believable, they are very entertaining. This time Kate even manages to find herself as a suspect and not only does she want to find out who done it, but she's also obviously keen to clear her name!
I did think that Kate (or perhaps our author) did show her age somewhat. She was most concerned about a young woman that her son brought around for a meal having her hand resting on his thigh. I'm not entirely sure what was so scandalous about it, but Kate goes in for a bit of pearl clutching as a result. I think perhaps the idea was to show how quickly this young lady was getting herself into the relationship. Personally, I'd have been raising an eyebrow over the speed of inviting her around to meet the parents.
I didn't manage to solve this one until nearly the end. As often is the case with this kind of story, there were plenty of red herrings and blind alleys to lead you away from who was really responsible. Just the kind of misdirection that makes these classic style mysteries so appealing. I hope that we get more from Kate again soon, maybe this time I'll be a little bit more successful in my sleuthing!
I did think that Kate (or perhaps our author) did show her age somewhat. She was most concerned about a young woman that her son brought around for a meal having her hand resting on his thigh. I'm not entirely sure what was so scandalous about it, but Kate goes in for a bit of pearl clutching as a result. I think perhaps the idea was to show how quickly this young lady was getting herself into the relationship. Personally, I'd have been raising an eyebrow over the speed of inviting her around to meet the parents.
I didn't manage to solve this one until nearly the end. As often is the case with this kind of story, there were plenty of red herrings and blind alleys to lead you away from who was really responsible. Just the kind of misdirection that makes these classic style mysteries so appealing. I hope that we get more from Kate again soon, maybe this time I'll be a little bit more successful in my sleuthing!
April 26, 2022
Kate Palmer thought spending the day at Tinworthy’s annual summer party would involve sea air, sunshine and Cornish cream cake. When Kate goes for a cliff-top walk she hears a scream & is shocked to spot the body of Sienna on the sandy beach below. Rumours swirl around the close-knit community and all eyes are on Kate. Half the village saw her arguing with Sienna at the party earlier that day. There’s a long list of people who might have wanted to push Sienna.
This is the fifth outing for Kate, now happily married to Woody, whilst this cosy mystery could easily be read on its own, familiar characters make appearances. Another well written captivating read, an added bonus is that Kate’s youngest son returns from Australia. Kate has a knack of being in the wrong place at the wrong time - this time she's the prime suspect in the murder. She’s incurably nosy & this time also breaks rules, which no experienced nurse would have done & which was totally unacceptable & I felt it was out of character for Kate. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings & for once I did work out the murderer but not the reasons why
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
This is the fifth outing for Kate, now happily married to Woody, whilst this cosy mystery could easily be read on its own, familiar characters make appearances. Another well written captivating read, an added bonus is that Kate’s youngest son returns from Australia. Kate has a knack of being in the wrong place at the wrong time - this time she's the prime suspect in the murder. She’s incurably nosy & this time also breaks rules, which no experienced nurse would have done & which was totally unacceptable & I felt it was out of character for Kate. There are plenty of twists & turns as well as red herrings & for once I did work out the murderer but not the reasons why
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
April 14, 2022
This is a fun cozy mystery set in Cornwall. Kate, the almost retired community nurse, loves the puzzle-solving part of mysteries but not so much when she is one of the suspected murderers! Sienna Stone, the local TV celebrity, was pushed off the cliff at the local fair. She wasn't a nice person and there were several suspects that the police were investigating. Kate decided to get involved to clear her name and she investigated all of the suspects. She found out who the murderer was in the end.
MacDonald describes the people and the place of Tinworthy very well. She makes the people believable and there are some very funny incidents. I did find that there were too many clues to the murderer's identity for it to be a surprise when they were unveiled. I do prefer more suspense. But all in all, it was a good story and I would read another one of MacDonald's books.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The opinion is my own and I was not compensated by Netgalley or the publisher.
MacDonald describes the people and the place of Tinworthy very well. She makes the people believable and there are some very funny incidents. I did find that there were too many clues to the murderer's identity for it to be a surprise when they were unveiled. I do prefer more suspense. But all in all, it was a good story and I would read another one of MacDonald's books.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC of this book. The opinion is my own and I was not compensated by Netgalley or the publisher.
May 1, 2022
It was so good to return to Tinworthy village this time
To discover again Kate's investigations into murder and crime.
The difference in this story is she's married to Woody
But she still can't help being nosey, not a goody!
Not only that, but she's a prime suspect in this case
As she'd fallen out with the victim and is in the wrong place!
She's determined to clear her own name
But the victim is someone with local television fame.
There are lots of others with motives, too,
Leaving Kate perplexed, considering the killer is just who?
A brilliant cosy murder mystery with great characters and twists
One I highly recommend you certainly don't miss.
I enjoy the community feel and the quirky folks, too,
Going back there again is something I really like to do.
Kate and her family are lots of fun to get to know
So you're never quite certain at what they'll have a go.
I thoroughly enjoyed this cosy mystery book
And highly recommend you give it a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
A fantastic read and this is my honest review.
To discover again Kate's investigations into murder and crime.
The difference in this story is she's married to Woody
But she still can't help being nosey, not a goody!
Not only that, but she's a prime suspect in this case
As she'd fallen out with the victim and is in the wrong place!
She's determined to clear her own name
But the victim is someone with local television fame.
There are lots of others with motives, too,
Leaving Kate perplexed, considering the killer is just who?
A brilliant cosy murder mystery with great characters and twists
One I highly recommend you certainly don't miss.
I enjoy the community feel and the quirky folks, too,
Going back there again is something I really like to do.
Kate and her family are lots of fun to get to know
So you're never quite certain at what they'll have a go.
I thoroughly enjoyed this cosy mystery book
And highly recommend you give it a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
A fantastic read and this is my honest review.
May 4, 2022
Nurse Kate Palmer, a practise nurse, is manning the first aid tent when local celebrity, Sienna Stone, swans in demanding a seat & a drink. Kate has already had a run in with her when Sienna crashed into Kate's car & refused to take responsibility for it. After making Sienna leave the tent Kate closes up & goes to have a drink with sister Angie. She lets off steam proclaiming she could wring Sienna's neck! A short while later whilst walking her dog she hears someone scream on the cliff path & when she gets to the top she can see a body on the beach- it is Sienna! Now Kate loves a mystery to solve but has never been a suspect before. Although ex-detective husband Woody tries to dissuade her she is determined to clear her name.
I love this series of book. I love the setting & the characters & have done from the start of the series. This was no exception & I can't wait for the next one.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
I love this series of book. I love the setting & the characters & have done from the start of the series. This was no exception & I can't wait for the next one.
Thanks to Netgalley & the publisher for letting me read & review this book.
April 25, 2022
3,5* upped to 4
It’s always a pleasure to travel to Tinworthy and catch up with Kate, Woody and the quirky cast of characters.
I always know I will read a well written, compelling, and entertaining story.
This is not my favourite instalment, but I enjoyed it even if I didn’t like some details.
Kate is as likeable as usual but she’s a bit too reckless and unrealistic: hiding clues from the police and using personal details from a medical practice are not high on any ethical scale. They seemed a bit out of characters as Kate always was very down to earth and playing by the rules.
There was a bit surprise in this book as we meet Jack, Kate’s youngest, who’s back from Australia.
The mystery was full of red herrings and twists and the culprit came as a surprise.
It was a pleasant read and I enjoyed it.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
It’s always a pleasure to travel to Tinworthy and catch up with Kate, Woody and the quirky cast of characters.
I always know I will read a well written, compelling, and entertaining story.
This is not my favourite instalment, but I enjoyed it even if I didn’t like some details.
Kate is as likeable as usual but she’s a bit too reckless and unrealistic: hiding clues from the police and using personal details from a medical practice are not high on any ethical scale. They seemed a bit out of characters as Kate always was very down to earth and playing by the rules.
There was a bit surprise in this book as we meet Jack, Kate’s youngest, who’s back from Australia.
The mystery was full of red herrings and twists and the culprit came as a surprise.
It was a pleasant read and I enjoyed it.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
May 19, 2022
In a Body on the beach Kate clashes with a local television celebrity who later on is pushed from a cliff. Suddenly Kate finds herself turned into a suspect because a lot of people have heard her quarrying with the murdered woman,. But there are a lot of other potential suspects so Kate again turns her hand to what she does best: sleuthing, although she has been warned by detective Charlotte Martin as well as her husband Woody; yes, they did indeed tie the knot somewhere between the last book and this one.
Of course there are a lot of developments plot twists and red herrings before at the end the real culprit is revealed. Must say that this time I guessed who the culprit was early on, but still I found it an entertaining and well written episode.
I find the series of consistently high quality, so 4 stars again.
Of course there are a lot of developments plot twists and red herrings before at the end the real culprit is revealed. Must say that this time I guessed who the culprit was early on, but still I found it an entertaining and well written episode.
I find the series of consistently high quality, so 4 stars again.
May 16, 2022
I really enjoy reading these books and was not disappointed in this 5th book in the series. Set in Tinworthy, Cornwall, Kate Palmer is a Practice Nurse at a local Surgery, she's also got known as a super sleuth, solving murders which happen around her.
It's Summer and the Annual Summer Fete sees Kate manning the medical tent. When a local celebrity causes a scene, one which Kate has had a run in with in the past, and is subsequently found dead, the only witness being Kate, she becomes chief suspect.
Being married to Woody, an ex met policeman doesn't bring her any favours from the local police! Can she solve this murder before she's arrested?
Whilst each book is a standalone story, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
It's Summer and the Annual Summer Fete sees Kate manning the medical tent. When a local celebrity causes a scene, one which Kate has had a run in with in the past, and is subsequently found dead, the only witness being Kate, she becomes chief suspect.
Being married to Woody, an ex met policeman doesn't bring her any favours from the local police! Can she solve this murder before she's arrested?
Whilst each book is a standalone story, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.
June 3, 2022
Though Dee MacDonald does an excellent job catching new readers up on the adventures of Kate Palmer, I would recommend that readers start at the beginning so they can get the complete picture of Tinworthy and its people.
This story is twisty with no clean-cut who-done-it. You will be right there with Kate as she adds all the suspects to her list and crosses them out only to add them back again. The narrative becomes a little redundant when Kate is winnowing down her suspicions, but things pick back up again when the humor finally showed-up at the wedding of Jodi and Marc.
In the end, you can’t say the suspect was unexpected, but it does add heartache that Kate didn’t expect.
This story is twisty with no clean-cut who-done-it. You will be right there with Kate as she adds all the suspects to her list and crosses them out only to add them back again. The narrative becomes a little redundant when Kate is winnowing down her suspicions, but things pick back up again when the humor finally showed-up at the wedding of Jodi and Marc.
In the end, you can’t say the suspect was unexpected, but it does add heartache that Kate didn’t expect.
May 31, 2022
This is the fifth book in the Kate Palmer series and I am loved it.
A Body on the Beach sees Kate drawn into another investigation when a body is found at the body of a cliff. She finds herself a suspect as she had run ins with the deceased, however she soon realises that she is not the only one with reason to want the deceased dead.
I am really enjoying this series and have also read and reviewed:
A Body at the Tearooms
A Body at the Altar
This is a well written series and I look forward to reading more.
A Body on the Beach sees Kate drawn into another investigation when a body is found at the body of a cliff. She finds herself a suspect as she had run ins with the deceased, however she soon realises that she is not the only one with reason to want the deceased dead.
I am really enjoying this series and have also read and reviewed:
A Body at the Tearooms
A Body at the Altar
This is a well written series and I look forward to reading more.
October 10, 2022
Another great Kate Palmer mystery
I always enjoy stories from Dee MacDonald they are easy no pressure reads that leave you ready for the next one! I love the way she writes murder mysteries that are so dark they leave you emotionally drained afterwards. I give this one 3.5 stars only because I was able to guess the killer and the twist very early on (maybe Kate Palmers sleuthing abilities are wearing off on me haha) but still enjoyed the story!
I always enjoy stories from Dee MacDonald they are easy no pressure reads that leave you ready for the next one! I love the way she writes murder mysteries that are so dark they leave you emotionally drained afterwards. I give this one 3.5 stars only because I was able to guess the killer and the twist very early on (maybe Kate Palmers sleuthing abilities are wearing off on me haha) but still enjoyed the story!
April 22, 2022
Kate Palmer meets Miss Marples! I have to admit, this is the first book I’ve read about this character and really can’t believe there is a 5th one! There just seemed to be 90% filler and 10% plot. If it weren’t for the twist (which was great I have to say) this book was getting a 2 star review, the twist made me give it 3. I won’t be in a rush to recommend this book unfortunately.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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