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Two Murders Too Many
"Meet Charlie Simmons, Shannon's newly-badged police chief, loved by kids and dogs everywhere. He's in way over his head on this one in Two Murders Too Many , but Charlie has never been known to back down from a in this case, two grisly murders and a string of blackmail victims showcasing the Who's Who of Shannon, a small, Midwestern town in an earlier time. Two Murders Too Many , Bluette Matthey's latest mystery, is an adaptation of true and terrible events from her father's childhood, which captures life's most innocent and darkly evil, no matter where you live. Welcome to Shannon, where whimsical meets wicked, but murder never goes out of style."
246 pages, Paperback
First published October 21, 2020
About the author
Bluette Matthey
11 books45 followersBluette Matthey is a third-generation Swiss American, an avid lover of Europe and its cultures, and a keen reader of mysteries. Her love of travel is shared by her husband, who formerly owned a tour outfitter business in Europe. Bluette maintains a mental list of hikes and pilgrimages she still wants to do throughout Europe. She currently lives in Beziers, France, with her husband and trio of loving cats.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 23, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
TWO MURDERS TOO MANY by Bluette Matthey is a new standalone murder mystery set in 1950s rural northwestern Ohio by a new to me author.
Charlie Simmons fills in as the acting police chief of the small town of Shannon, Ohio while the chief is away. Charlie is immediately thrown into the middle of mayhem which includes arsons, blackmail and murder, but Charlie knows all of the players and works methodically to unravel who is responsible for the crimes.
Ms. Matthey’s writing style brings this small town and all its inhabitants to life. The writing juxtaposition of comforting small town mid-west 1950s innocence against brutal criminal scenes kept me turning the pages. Charlie is the perfect protagonist to guide us through this story and all the town’s characters. The time period also plays a part in the story by not only giving the reader a feeling of nostalgia, but also makes solving the crimes more difficult with no modern forensics. The plot is skillfully crafted with interesting twists and memorable characters.
I highly recommend this murder mystery and author!
TWO MURDERS TOO MANY by Bluette Matthey is a new standalone murder mystery set in 1950s rural northwestern Ohio by a new to me author.
Charlie Simmons fills in as the acting police chief of the small town of Shannon, Ohio while the chief is away. Charlie is immediately thrown into the middle of mayhem which includes arsons, blackmail and murder, but Charlie knows all of the players and works methodically to unravel who is responsible for the crimes.
Ms. Matthey’s writing style brings this small town and all its inhabitants to life. The writing juxtaposition of comforting small town mid-west 1950s innocence against brutal criminal scenes kept me turning the pages. Charlie is the perfect protagonist to guide us through this story and all the town’s characters. The time period also plays a part in the story by not only giving the reader a feeling of nostalgia, but also makes solving the crimes more difficult with no modern forensics. The plot is skillfully crafted with interesting twists and memorable characters.
I highly recommend this murder mystery and author!
December 22, 2020
Two Murders Too Many transports us to the rural town of Shannon, Midwest Ohio in the mid-1950s. In the small, mainly farming community, not much goes unnoticed so when two barns are set alight followed by a disappearing wife, the intrigues and grievances that have been simmering among the townsfolk begin to slowly boil over…
I thought Two Murders Too Many was charmingly well-written and skilfully plotted. The opening I found a touch nervous and scattered; but Ms Matthey quickly finds a rhythm and subsequently, the book is hard to put down. The backbone of the story is the characterisation. Each character, even minor ones such as Fred Birknauer, the drunken wallpaper hanger and Melvina, the Kitchen Supervisor are imbued with such originally quirky yet concise descriptive detail that they are immediately animated and a joy to read. It reminded me in both tone and design of Steinbeck’s descriptive one or two liners which sprang his characters instantly to eccentric life.
I like when writers bring a little foreknowledge into the narrative from their own heritage, and it was a nice touch mentioning the Swiss enclave; it lent the story an unquestionable authenticity. A further integral element were the given names and nicknames that Ms Matthey gifts her characters; they are not overstated but just beautifully nuanced writerly details and ever-so-slightly knowingly humorous. Her description of place, such as JDs barbers and The Pine Restaurant, is equally rich in imagination and shot through the lazy, sepia lens of the 1950s. It’s also a clever technique; the warm, open simplicity of mid-Century Midwest with its cast of comforting idiosyncrasies brings into sharp contrast the atrocities committed within. There are some brutal scenes in this book and some deeply troubled people. The conflicting difference between the easy, fluid pace of the narrative that matches the context and the violence of the crimes juxtaposes admirably to hold reader attention. As does the plot; it seems slightly naïve but it’s layered; little twists and side angles abound making the story a thoroughly enjoyable whodunnit which kept me guessing although I did wonder if a few of the plot detours were needed and I also thought the last few chapters were superfluous; they seemed a bit of an add-on. However, Charlie Simmons is perfectly drawn as the Police Officer and there is a definite future series with him at the helm which I would not hesitate to read.
Too Murders Too Many is a captivating and neatly crafted murder mystery that showcases a writer with a wonderfully imaginative eye for detail and story. Highly recommended.
I thought Two Murders Too Many was charmingly well-written and skilfully plotted. The opening I found a touch nervous and scattered; but Ms Matthey quickly finds a rhythm and subsequently, the book is hard to put down. The backbone of the story is the characterisation. Each character, even minor ones such as Fred Birknauer, the drunken wallpaper hanger and Melvina, the Kitchen Supervisor are imbued with such originally quirky yet concise descriptive detail that they are immediately animated and a joy to read. It reminded me in both tone and design of Steinbeck’s descriptive one or two liners which sprang his characters instantly to eccentric life.
I like when writers bring a little foreknowledge into the narrative from their own heritage, and it was a nice touch mentioning the Swiss enclave; it lent the story an unquestionable authenticity. A further integral element were the given names and nicknames that Ms Matthey gifts her characters; they are not overstated but just beautifully nuanced writerly details and ever-so-slightly knowingly humorous. Her description of place, such as JDs barbers and The Pine Restaurant, is equally rich in imagination and shot through the lazy, sepia lens of the 1950s. It’s also a clever technique; the warm, open simplicity of mid-Century Midwest with its cast of comforting idiosyncrasies brings into sharp contrast the atrocities committed within. There are some brutal scenes in this book and some deeply troubled people. The conflicting difference between the easy, fluid pace of the narrative that matches the context and the violence of the crimes juxtaposes admirably to hold reader attention. As does the plot; it seems slightly naïve but it’s layered; little twists and side angles abound making the story a thoroughly enjoyable whodunnit which kept me guessing although I did wonder if a few of the plot detours were needed and I also thought the last few chapters were superfluous; they seemed a bit of an add-on. However, Charlie Simmons is perfectly drawn as the Police Officer and there is a definite future series with him at the helm which I would not hesitate to read.
Too Murders Too Many is a captivating and neatly crafted murder mystery that showcases a writer with a wonderfully imaginative eye for detail and story. Highly recommended.
December 21, 2020
I received a copy of Two Murders Too Many in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Bluette Matthey's latest novel, Two Murders Too Many is a thrilling mystery series, full of action and clever points and twists.
When Charlie Simmons became a police officer for a tiny town, he probably didn't expect to deal with a whole lot of crime. Yet suddenly he's dealing with barn burnings and worse. So much worse, as two bodies arrive on the scene.
To his credit, Simmons is willing to deal with all of the horror and trauma that comes with this sort of investigation. Especially if it means he can hunt down the killer in this otherwise quiet and happy community.
Two Murders Too Many is a dark yet fascinating novel, one explores a unique setting and time period. It was the title that pulled my attention to this book, yet the writing is what kept me captivated right through to the end.
Set in 1950s Ohio, Two Murders Too Many has a very different feel from many of the other mysteries I've been reading lately. Naturally, I adore that change of pace, and consider that almost reason enough for others to check it out as well.
There are several reasons why I enjoyed this setting. For one thing, it added a lot of charm, and was a pretty bold decision on Matthey's part, all things considered. The main reason, however, is the lack of forensic understanding and technology. Think about it – the crimes committed in this book were horrific, and yet this small town certainly didn't have much to help them solve it. They certainly didn't have access to any of the technology we take for granted these days.
All of which added a few extra twists and complications. It made for a more interesting read, as the new Police Chief was basically forced into learning by doing for this entire crime spree. Not an ideal situation to say the least.
Matthey's writing was compelling and bold, creating this descriptive world with such detail that it made it all feel so alive. The good and the bad, as the case may be. As such, this is one of those slow-burning mysteries. Where the stetting is just as (if not more) important than the murder/mystery introduced.
This was the first novel I've read by Matthey, and from the looks of it, she tends to spread her writing all over the globe. I'm looking forward to reading more of her other mysteries, especially those set in places I've only ever dreamed of visiting.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
Bluette Matthey's latest novel, Two Murders Too Many is a thrilling mystery series, full of action and clever points and twists.
When Charlie Simmons became a police officer for a tiny town, he probably didn't expect to deal with a whole lot of crime. Yet suddenly he's dealing with barn burnings and worse. So much worse, as two bodies arrive on the scene.
To his credit, Simmons is willing to deal with all of the horror and trauma that comes with this sort of investigation. Especially if it means he can hunt down the killer in this otherwise quiet and happy community.
Two Murders Too Many is a dark yet fascinating novel, one explores a unique setting and time period. It was the title that pulled my attention to this book, yet the writing is what kept me captivated right through to the end.
Set in 1950s Ohio, Two Murders Too Many has a very different feel from many of the other mysteries I've been reading lately. Naturally, I adore that change of pace, and consider that almost reason enough for others to check it out as well.
There are several reasons why I enjoyed this setting. For one thing, it added a lot of charm, and was a pretty bold decision on Matthey's part, all things considered. The main reason, however, is the lack of forensic understanding and technology. Think about it – the crimes committed in this book were horrific, and yet this small town certainly didn't have much to help them solve it. They certainly didn't have access to any of the technology we take for granted these days.
All of which added a few extra twists and complications. It made for a more interesting read, as the new Police Chief was basically forced into learning by doing for this entire crime spree. Not an ideal situation to say the least.
Matthey's writing was compelling and bold, creating this descriptive world with such detail that it made it all feel so alive. The good and the bad, as the case may be. As such, this is one of those slow-burning mysteries. Where the stetting is just as (if not more) important than the murder/mystery introduced.
This was the first novel I've read by Matthey, and from the looks of it, she tends to spread her writing all over the globe. I'm looking forward to reading more of her other mysteries, especially those set in places I've only ever dreamed of visiting.
Check out more reviews over at Quirky Cat's Fat Stacks
December 21, 2020
Having grown up in a rural area, I found this to be a interesting read. Everyone knows everyone else's business normally, which can make for some interesting situations. Set in small town Shannon back in the 1950's, this book contains just about everything. Arson, blackmail even murder is anyone who you think them to be as Charlie fills in as the acting police chief while the chief is away visiting his sister. What follows is Charlie working hard to figure out whom is responsible for all the events happening in town. My first book by this author, and overall I found it to be a enjoyable read it was well written and kept me turning the pages to see what would happen next. I would definitely recommend this book to others. I received an ARC copy of the book from the publisher and author and an under no obligation to leave a favorable review, all opinions expressed here are my own.
December 12, 2020
A small town Shannon set in the 1950s a place were we all grew up. Charlie Simmons a string character sworn in as cheif police starts his new career with a barn fire with all the town present, then a body shows up, could it be the serial blackmailer? That has been holding each citizen in check, will the townspeople’s tell? A very descriptive story during the barn fire you feel you are present flicking ashes off your thermal, a interwoven story enjoy
November 13, 2020
Two Murders Too Many
By Bluette Matthey
A Review
A good novel is one you carry with you after you put it down. It teases your mind to wonder what is going to happen, as the rest of the story unfolds.
Bluette is the storyteller’s daughter! She is an interesting travel guide through the mixed richness of the human condition. In this novel, she has stepped away from her own faithful guide, Hardy Durkin, to explore the everyday life of small town America on her own.
In lieu of being transported to fascinating corners of Europe, where the reader gets a taste of cuisine, culture, and a main course of mystery, in her most recent novel, Two Murders Too Many, we are treated to a close up view of life in Shannon, Ohio.
We discover the “characters” of every small town, as they show us their shiny and shadowy sides. Her characters are developed with memorable and lovable care. Even the pesky ones have their place in the social fabric. She has a knack for capturing unique speech patterns and quirky pronunciation that are the hallmark of regional small towns everywhere.
As her story develops, the dark secrets of the town are gradually uncovered by Charlie Simmons, acting Police Chief. Her story teases the reader through scenes of everyday life and stark announcements of puzzling disasters.
The most grizzly secret of a missing woman,
who lives on a farm close to town, is the core thread of this multilayered mystery. In the dollar value of the day, her husband offers the extraordinary reward of $500 to anyone who can find her. The search is on!
All of the interwoven threads of the novel capture the attention of the town and gossip networks are working overtime. Even children share in the search for Katie Mohler, risking what might be a bloody discovery for the hope of gaining a small fortune. The clue to the mystery comes from a most unlikely character in a very surprising way.
I think this is by far the best of Bluette’s novels to date. It held my interest, pulling me forward into these everyday lives, their homey interconnections and the hints of mystery that develop into scenes of human darkness at its worst. This novel has my highest recommendation. Enjoy!
Rolland K. Stratton
Retired College Professor, Pastor
and occasional poet.
October 21, 2020
October 21, 2020
this author, contacted me through my email and we chatted back and forth for several emails that was so so so fuN!! suspense. thriller. i love finding new authors. i wanna read more from Bluette Matthey very soon. i enjoy the characters. so fun. well written. i love a read that has me curious ...this did me that way. please check her out. such a new fan.
December 6, 2020
Matthey takes us to a small town in northwestern Ohio in the 1950s. Her writing style aptly reflects the sleepy town as we experience a rambling but methodical tour through its people and places. There are several side stories embellishing the mystery, the kinds of stories we would hear as we meandered through its streets. The acting police chief fits the small town as he goes about talking to people, gently probing for clues. It was a time long before rural towns had law enforcement with any training. Charlie fits the bill, sitting with his feet on his desk mulling over the last comments he's heard and wondering of there is a clue in their midst.
It took a while to become engaged in the pleasant narrative of this mystery with its lack of intensity. I continued reading with the idea of the author setting the pace of the plot to match the atmosphere of the town. That worked for me and kept me interested. The time is long before investigative or forensic techniques were introduced into small towns. It was interesting to see how a recent mechanic or farmer now acting police chief would go about rooting out the murderer in a more bumbling manner than modern police procedure.
The ending to the novel seemed a little unrealistic but Matthey is writing about events during her father's lifetime. Reading this novel was a pleasant change from more intense and structured mysteries.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
It took a while to become engaged in the pleasant narrative of this mystery with its lack of intensity. I continued reading with the idea of the author setting the pace of the plot to match the atmosphere of the town. That worked for me and kept me interested. The time is long before investigative or forensic techniques were introduced into small towns. It was interesting to see how a recent mechanic or farmer now acting police chief would go about rooting out the murderer in a more bumbling manner than modern police procedure.
The ending to the novel seemed a little unrealistic but Matthey is writing about events during her father's lifetime. Reading this novel was a pleasant change from more intense and structured mysteries.
I received a complimentary digital copy of this book through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours. My comments are an independent and honest review.
December 17, 2020
I absolutely loved this mystery!
The setting of this book is 1956 in a small Midwestern town called Shannon. The acting police chief Charlie Simmons has to solve barn fires, murder and a missing wife (there is blackmail involved too) while the real police chief is out of town taking care of his sick sister.
Charlie grew up in Shannon and knows all about its eccentricities. Solving these crimes will take some research, some question asking and a whole lot of patience.
I loved they way this mystery is told. It’s like a grandparent telling you about the neighborhood they grew up in, about all the folks that were around back then and all the crazy things that happened when they lived there.
There are a lot of characters in the story since it is a mystery about the town but I never felt confused about who was doing what. In fact, all these characters added to the richness of the mystery.
Charlie’s nephew, Rolland was one of my favorite characters. It seems like he was always around when there was trouble brewing.
Take a step back in time, walk down Main Street and watch your back because your neighbors may be more than just a little eccentric.
The setting of this book is 1956 in a small Midwestern town called Shannon. The acting police chief Charlie Simmons has to solve barn fires, murder and a missing wife (there is blackmail involved too) while the real police chief is out of town taking care of his sick sister.
Charlie grew up in Shannon and knows all about its eccentricities. Solving these crimes will take some research, some question asking and a whole lot of patience.
I loved they way this mystery is told. It’s like a grandparent telling you about the neighborhood they grew up in, about all the folks that were around back then and all the crazy things that happened when they lived there.
There are a lot of characters in the story since it is a mystery about the town but I never felt confused about who was doing what. In fact, all these characters added to the richness of the mystery.
Charlie’s nephew, Rolland was one of my favorite characters. It seems like he was always around when there was trouble brewing.
Take a step back in time, walk down Main Street and watch your back because your neighbors may be more than just a little eccentric.
December 15, 2020
Thank you PICT for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Two Murders Too Many
By: Bluette Matthey
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
As a small town resident, I can confidently say that some things never change. From the 1950's to present day, all of the defining characteristics are the same.
The colorful cast of characters within the small town of Shannon, although seemingly stereotypical, do exist in reality to some degree. From gossips, blackmailers, farmers, law enforcement, political leaders, the impoverished and the generously kind hearted, each has a place. The author, writing from experience, is spot on with her apt descriptions of day to day life. Furthermore, the slow, sometimes maddeningly so, pace and casual drifting about are reflected in the unhurried atmosphere of the lingering narrative.
Any bit of abnormality or break from the daily mononity is an event, so the incidents in the story are significantly important to everyone. Police procedure being quite different, but era appropriate, works well in leading readers down a twisting path to eventual resolution. While not every aspect of the plot is believable, the story is solid overall. Two Murders Too Many offers the allure of simplicity and a compelling mystery to readers of all ages and preferences. Enjoy!
Two Murders Too Many
By: Bluette Matthey
REVIEW ☆☆☆☆
As a small town resident, I can confidently say that some things never change. From the 1950's to present day, all of the defining characteristics are the same.
The colorful cast of characters within the small town of Shannon, although seemingly stereotypical, do exist in reality to some degree. From gossips, blackmailers, farmers, law enforcement, political leaders, the impoverished and the generously kind hearted, each has a place. The author, writing from experience, is spot on with her apt descriptions of day to day life. Furthermore, the slow, sometimes maddeningly so, pace and casual drifting about are reflected in the unhurried atmosphere of the lingering narrative.
Any bit of abnormality or break from the daily mononity is an event, so the incidents in the story are significantly important to everyone. Police procedure being quite different, but era appropriate, works well in leading readers down a twisting path to eventual resolution. While not every aspect of the plot is believable, the story is solid overall. Two Murders Too Many offers the allure of simplicity and a compelling mystery to readers of all ages and preferences. Enjoy!
December 6, 2020
Title – Too Murders Too Many
Author – Bluette Matthey
Genre – Mystery
Word Count - 45,800
Rating – Four stars out of five
No. 44- 2020
Posted 12/6/2020
My Impressions: A large cast of whacko characters in Shannon, Ohio, in 1956.
Main Characters:
Charlie Simmons – Policeman
Otto Hilty – Mail carrier
Hiram Mohler – Farmer whose wife goes missing.
Tom & Clyde Gratz – Farmers whose barns are burned.
Shannon, Ohio, has an inordinate number of mentally handicapped people caused by past decades of inbreeding. Their conditions range from mild to severe. Most lead nearly normal productive if quirky lives. The ‘normal’ folks of Shannon look after and protect them.
Policeman Charlie Simmons is thrust into covering for the police chief before two barns are burned. This is big news in a farming community, and everyone wonders who the dastardly criminal is. Then Hiram Mohler reports his younger wife has disappeared.
Shortly afterward and during a town celebration, postman Otto Hilty is murdered in a very gruesome manner. Charlie wonders why until his investigation discovers a steady stream of small amounts of money deposited to Otto’s bank account every month. Charlie tracks down the people being blackmailed but doesn’t feel any are barn burners or murderers.
But then Charlie has a brain fart (that’s an epiphany to the upper crust) and thinks he knows where Katie Mohler is.
In the end, Charlie catches the killer and sends him to the Ohio State Mental Hospital.
The editing and sentence structure are poorly done and need help to eliminate the many frequent errors.
Character Development is good, but most are a bunch of whackos.
Details and research are adequate.
The plot is unusual but entertaining.
The writing style portrays mostly downhome rednecks who don’t take easily to outsiders.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
Author – Bluette Matthey
Genre – Mystery
Word Count - 45,800
Rating – Four stars out of five
No. 44- 2020
Posted 12/6/2020
My Impressions: A large cast of whacko characters in Shannon, Ohio, in 1956.
Main Characters:
Charlie Simmons – Policeman
Otto Hilty – Mail carrier
Hiram Mohler – Farmer whose wife goes missing.
Tom & Clyde Gratz – Farmers whose barns are burned.
Shannon, Ohio, has an inordinate number of mentally handicapped people caused by past decades of inbreeding. Their conditions range from mild to severe. Most lead nearly normal productive if quirky lives. The ‘normal’ folks of Shannon look after and protect them.
Policeman Charlie Simmons is thrust into covering for the police chief before two barns are burned. This is big news in a farming community, and everyone wonders who the dastardly criminal is. Then Hiram Mohler reports his younger wife has disappeared.
Shortly afterward and during a town celebration, postman Otto Hilty is murdered in a very gruesome manner. Charlie wonders why until his investigation discovers a steady stream of small amounts of money deposited to Otto’s bank account every month. Charlie tracks down the people being blackmailed but doesn’t feel any are barn burners or murderers.
But then Charlie has a brain fart (that’s an epiphany to the upper crust) and thinks he knows where Katie Mohler is.
In the end, Charlie catches the killer and sends him to the Ohio State Mental Hospital.
The editing and sentence structure are poorly done and need help to eliminate the many frequent errors.
Character Development is good, but most are a bunch of whackos.
Details and research are adequate.
The plot is unusual but entertaining.
The writing style portrays mostly downhome rednecks who don’t take easily to outsiders.
Vigilant Reader Book Reviews.
December 15, 2020
One murder is bad enough, but two are definitely too many. Someone got tired of the blackmailing postman. Murder stopped the blackmail.
But who was he blackmailing? And just how many people was he blackmailing?
When Charlie became a new policeman in Shannon he didn't expect a murder in this nice little community. But Charlie handled the job well and ended up figuring out who the murderer was.
I imagine he was looking forward to his boss coming back home so he could step back a bit.
Thank you, Ms Matthey. I would like to see more books placed in Shannon.
***Book provided without charge by PICT.***
But who was he blackmailing? And just how many people was he blackmailing?
When Charlie became a new policeman in Shannon he didn't expect a murder in this nice little community. But Charlie handled the job well and ended up figuring out who the murderer was.
I imagine he was looking forward to his boss coming back home so he could step back a bit.
Thank you, Ms Matthey. I would like to see more books placed in Shannon.
***Book provided without charge by PICT.***
December 12, 2020
What dark secrets are the leaders of this tight knit community holding? The reader’s journey to discovery is by way of getting to know the true character of the community. Who among Shannon leaders are not the persons they present themselves to be ?
Especially enjoyable for someone like myself that was raised as a transplant in this Swiss Mennonite community. The twist and turns presented awakened many memories and though some of the events presented by the writer were unfamiliar others relayed were folklore shared throughout the community. To be offered the opportunity to take a walk through the businesses and once again see the town’s most unique characters was nostalgic. The only question. Where does fact and fiction separate?
Especially enjoyable for someone like myself that was raised as a transplant in this Swiss Mennonite community. The twist and turns presented awakened many memories and though some of the events presented by the writer were unfamiliar others relayed were folklore shared throughout the community. To be offered the opportunity to take a walk through the businesses and once again see the town’s most unique characters was nostalgic. The only question. Where does fact and fiction separate?
October 21, 2020
Two Murders Too Man is a step away from the Hardy Durkin series and opens in a small mid-west town as the first few chapters set the scene and introduce the new characters. The town is a place where everyone knows everybody and their business but someone knows more than they should. When a barn burns down, a woman goes missing and a body is discovered the towns police department becomes a hive of activity and the key players begin to stand out of the story.
Charlie Simmons steps up to the mark as he begins to dig into the town’s folk affairs. I really took to Charlie who doesn’t take things at face value, he is methodical, trusted and doesn’t jump to conclusions. The story is set in the 1950’s so it is a more hands-on type of policing than today. There is a lot of leg work and treks to farms, banks and dropping in on people. Not everything is done strictly by the book but results are gotten.
The momentum builds gradually throughout the story and the real detective work began with me as well as Charlie. I love a book that develops into a whodunnit for me to get involved with too. There are some shocking discoveries and a brilliant ending after I thought that it was all winding up. It certainly spiked my adrenalin. I really enjoyed this book and I hope to see more of these characters in the future.
Charlie Simmons steps up to the mark as he begins to dig into the town’s folk affairs. I really took to Charlie who doesn’t take things at face value, he is methodical, trusted and doesn’t jump to conclusions. The story is set in the 1950’s so it is a more hands-on type of policing than today. There is a lot of leg work and treks to farms, banks and dropping in on people. Not everything is done strictly by the book but results are gotten.
The momentum builds gradually throughout the story and the real detective work began with me as well as Charlie. I love a book that develops into a whodunnit for me to get involved with too. There are some shocking discoveries and a brilliant ending after I thought that it was all winding up. It certainly spiked my adrenalin. I really enjoyed this book and I hope to see more of these characters in the future.
October 21, 2020
Wow! This book was totally different from the one that I had read previously. The last book was called Engadine Aerie and it was a thriller set in scenic Switzerland. This time, the focus is on the American countryside.
The book begins with the burning of a barn in the town of Sharon that results in an investigation. Meanwhile, the people get on with their daily lives. But when other tragedies occur, it gives rise to suspicion. I don’t want to give anything away, but the story has to be read to be enjoyed to the maximum.
The highlight of the book is its climax. I must say, it is mind boggling! When I began reading the book, I didn’t imagine that the end would be so thrilling.
Bluette has a flair of giving the readers a flowy narrative that is tight and engaging at the same time. Her writing style is impeccable and you just wouldn’t want to put the book down.
What I Did Not Like
There’s nothing that I disliked about the book.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes! Read this to experience some thrills and don’t forget to read her Hardy Durkin series as well.
The book begins with the burning of a barn in the town of Sharon that results in an investigation. Meanwhile, the people get on with their daily lives. But when other tragedies occur, it gives rise to suspicion. I don’t want to give anything away, but the story has to be read to be enjoyed to the maximum.
The highlight of the book is its climax. I must say, it is mind boggling! When I began reading the book, I didn’t imagine that the end would be so thrilling.
Bluette has a flair of giving the readers a flowy narrative that is tight and engaging at the same time. Her writing style is impeccable and you just wouldn’t want to put the book down.
What I Did Not Like
There’s nothing that I disliked about the book.
Would I Recommend It?
Yes! Read this to experience some thrills and don’t forget to read her Hardy Durkin series as well.
October 21, 2020
Two murders too many is a murder crime thriller story focusing on a chain of murders in Shannon’s town. Charlie Simmons, who has been newly appointed as a policeman, is in charge and investigates to determine what has happened.
The story is steadily paced and has many layers of intriguing storylines. The author cleverly keeps the tension and wonder going until the revelation. The characters were all created well with personalities that clashed with one another. In particular, the protagonist was portrayed knowing what to do and where to look, however, kept its vulnerability, not always doing the right thing, which was nice.
I predominantly enjoyed how descriptive the book was. When it comes to crime novels, you can only really imagine the horror and thrill if you are given the juicy details, and the content has to be expressive. The author managed to provide that which made the book absorbing to read.
I recommend this book to anyone interested in reading thrilling nature stories and does not shy away from murder scenes.
The story is steadily paced and has many layers of intriguing storylines. The author cleverly keeps the tension and wonder going until the revelation. The characters were all created well with personalities that clashed with one another. In particular, the protagonist was portrayed knowing what to do and where to look, however, kept its vulnerability, not always doing the right thing, which was nice.
I predominantly enjoyed how descriptive the book was. When it comes to crime novels, you can only really imagine the horror and thrill if you are given the juicy details, and the content has to be expressive. The author managed to provide that which made the book absorbing to read.
I recommend this book to anyone interested in reading thrilling nature stories and does not shy away from murder scenes.
October 21, 2020
Magnificently suspenseful
Matthey pens a intriguing story in Two Murders Too Many. Hmm, small town and unexpected murders! A definite lure for any reader who, 1 is familiar with Matthey's work, and 2, loves a good suspenseful, thrilling story. Matthey is a remarkable story teller, and this story shows that. This book deserves a second read! (and maybe more). A very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. It is always a joy to read this author's stories. A definite attention grabber. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly and the characterizations are engrossing. Love this story. It's the kind of story that you read every single word so you don't miss a thing. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This author's characters develop and interacts well with the other characters. I have fast become a big fan of Matthey. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
Matthey pens a intriguing story in Two Murders Too Many. Hmm, small town and unexpected murders! A definite lure for any reader who, 1 is familiar with Matthey's work, and 2, loves a good suspenseful, thrilling story. Matthey is a remarkable story teller, and this story shows that. This book deserves a second read! (and maybe more). A very well-written story, and I enjoyed it. It is always a joy to read this author's stories. A definite attention grabber. The thrills and intrigue is written clearly and the characterizations are engrossing. Love this story. It's the kind of story that you read every single word so you don't miss a thing. It's a great story to follow and try to figure out what will happen next. This author's characters develop and interacts well with the other characters. I have fast become a big fan of Matthey. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author. This book is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews.
October 13, 2020
Having read several of this author’s Hardy Durkin series, when I read the synopsis for Two Murders Too Many, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Ms. Matthey’s latest is not at all like her Durkin books, making this one a real surprise. Two Murders Too Many is definitely a captivating story set in the mid-1950s in small town middle America. I quickly became engaged with Charlie, the central character, and was completely taken by the complexity of the story. It’s an easy to read novel, but one that will leave you wondering, ‘what just happened’. There’s a lot going on in this suspenseful book and a lot of characters to keep track of. But each one is fascinating in their own right. I really enjoyed this book and am looking forward to many more by Bluette Matthey.
January 21, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Author. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.Two Murders Too Many by Bluette Matthey is a different sort of historical mystery. You never know what you will find in a small town, but Shannon isn't your normal small town.
Will Charlie figure out who burned down the barns, killed the postman, and where is Katie?
In the 1950s, the town of Shannon, Ohio, had a rash of crimes. Although the crimes are all different in nature, no one seems to know who is behind them. This fictional farm town has quite a bit of characters running around.
Charlie Simmons
Charlie is the local policeman. He is tasked with figuring out who committed these crimes and bringing them to justice. Charlie's list of suspects in each crime keeps getting longer, and the culprits come from some of the best families. As he investigates lead after lead, Charlie is extremely discreet, which the fine citizens of Shannon find very helpful. Even though Charlie doesn't gossip, it doesn't mean that he won't figure this mystery out.
I think Charlie is a great character. He shows great integrity, honesty, and the ability to see the puzzle. I think how he handles the different citizens is touching, even when the other townsfolk don't like it.
Three Stars
I enjoyed Charlie's way of thinking, but I found the way the author worked in the backstories for the other characters odd. It was like, oh, here is a suspect, then, nope, this is why they couldn't have done the deed. The story is true to the time and the way a farm town would have been; at least, it seemed correct to me. My rating for Two Murders Too Many by Bluette Matthey is three stars. However, if you are looking for a mystery with a different spin, you should check this one out.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Two Murders Too Many by Bluette Matthey.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
Will Charlie figure out who burned down the barns, killed the postman, and where is Katie?
In the 1950s, the town of Shannon, Ohio, had a rash of crimes. Although the crimes are all different in nature, no one seems to know who is behind them. This fictional farm town has quite a bit of characters running around.
Charlie Simmons
Charlie is the local policeman. He is tasked with figuring out who committed these crimes and bringing them to justice. Charlie's list of suspects in each crime keeps getting longer, and the culprits come from some of the best families. As he investigates lead after lead, Charlie is extremely discreet, which the fine citizens of Shannon find very helpful. Even though Charlie doesn't gossip, it doesn't mean that he won't figure this mystery out.
I think Charlie is a great character. He shows great integrity, honesty, and the ability to see the puzzle. I think how he handles the different citizens is touching, even when the other townsfolk don't like it.
Three Stars
I enjoyed Charlie's way of thinking, but I found the way the author worked in the backstories for the other characters odd. It was like, oh, here is a suspect, then, nope, this is why they couldn't have done the deed. The story is true to the time and the way a farm town would have been; at least, it seemed correct to me. My rating for Two Murders Too Many by Bluette Matthey is three stars. However, if you are looking for a mystery with a different spin, you should check this one out.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of Two Murders Too Many by Bluette Matthey.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
November 14, 2020
Charlie Simmons was sworn in as a police chief in Shannon, just in time for barns to burn, a woman to go missing and a body to be found. The body was of a serial blackmailer essentially holding the leading citizens in town hostage, so anyone could’ve been the killer...
Bluette has written a number of European travel mysteries, as she loves to travel and lives in France. Two Murders Too Many takes inspiration from real-life events that occurred during her father’s lifetime, which adds to the flavor of small-town life in Midwest America in the 1950s. Having a barn burn down is a community affair, as are the indigent population that can’t support or fix their own homes. A community getting together is the stuff of the “good old days” kind of stories, and the beginning of the novel gets into the history of the town, the “disproportionately large number of town characters,” and the ties between them all. It’s slow and meandering, occasionally addressing the reader directly as if you’re listening to someone tell this story like an oral history. Breaking the fourth wall is relatively rare here, so it doesn’t detract or interrupt the flow too much.
It takes a good third of the book before Otto’s body is found, and the slow, methodical pace of the novel continues in this same vein. It’s the slower pace of Midwest life, and Charlie has to talk to the townspeople in Shannon as well as the rural farm folk who mistrust the townies. Add in the secrets that Otto had blackmailed the people for, and it’s a long and frustrating path for Charlie to walk. Even after finding the killer and discovering why it happened, the novel isn’t quite over because the killer isn’t, either. Motives and behavior are erratic; the killer announces it almost gleefully, and the attempted “bonus” killing has such poor motivation other than “I wanted to.” These kinds of killers exist, and the world is a more frightening place with them in it.
Bluette has written a number of European travel mysteries, as she loves to travel and lives in France. Two Murders Too Many takes inspiration from real-life events that occurred during her father’s lifetime, which adds to the flavor of small-town life in Midwest America in the 1950s. Having a barn burn down is a community affair, as are the indigent population that can’t support or fix their own homes. A community getting together is the stuff of the “good old days” kind of stories, and the beginning of the novel gets into the history of the town, the “disproportionately large number of town characters,” and the ties between them all. It’s slow and meandering, occasionally addressing the reader directly as if you’re listening to someone tell this story like an oral history. Breaking the fourth wall is relatively rare here, so it doesn’t detract or interrupt the flow too much.
It takes a good third of the book before Otto’s body is found, and the slow, methodical pace of the novel continues in this same vein. It’s the slower pace of Midwest life, and Charlie has to talk to the townspeople in Shannon as well as the rural farm folk who mistrust the townies. Add in the secrets that Otto had blackmailed the people for, and it’s a long and frustrating path for Charlie to walk. Even after finding the killer and discovering why it happened, the novel isn’t quite over because the killer isn’t, either. Motives and behavior are erratic; the killer announces it almost gleefully, and the attempted “bonus” killing has such poor motivation other than “I wanted to.” These kinds of killers exist, and the world is a more frightening place with them in it.
October 16, 2020
The story follows Charlie Simmons as he investigates the unexpected spree of crime and murder in a small midwest town. The story is very well written with a myriad of characters each with their own quirks. At first, it is a little difficult to understand where the book is going with every chapter focusing on a new character and how they fit into the fabric of the town. As the events unfold however, the reader is pulled into the investigation, contemplating who could be behind the murders and the cause of unrest.
I enjoyed reading about Charlie: how he handles the investigation, systematically working his way through the evidence and tackling the residents of the town. Some character introductions seemed quite drawn out to me, but on the whole, the plot flows well and the ambience of the town was very well described. A quiet and simple town where every person knows the other and everyone's business is common knowledge, it is indeed shocking to have to deal with murders and mysteries.
The ending is definitely a little unexpected and it is quite interesting to watch as Charlie works through each clue one by one to reach a conclusion! The book is well worth the read!
I enjoyed reading about Charlie: how he handles the investigation, systematically working his way through the evidence and tackling the residents of the town. Some character introductions seemed quite drawn out to me, but on the whole, the plot flows well and the ambience of the town was very well described. A quiet and simple town where every person knows the other and everyone's business is common knowledge, it is indeed shocking to have to deal with murders and mysteries.
The ending is definitely a little unexpected and it is quite interesting to watch as Charlie works through each clue one by one to reach a conclusion! The book is well worth the read!
December 28, 2020
I loved this mystery and read it in one afternoon, it’s gripping and highly entertaining.
The descriptions of the small town and the quirky inhabitants reminded me of Fannie Flagg’s novel. They’re realistic and sweet at the same time.
It’s a novel about secrets and people. There’s a mystery but there’s also a realistic description of the life in a small town after WWII.
Charlie is a great character, clever and strong willed, he won’t start till he discover the truth.
He will discover that there’s a lot of secrets and not everything is as lovely as it seems.
The mystery is solid, full to twists and turns, and even if it wasn’t hard to discover the culprit, it kept me hooked till the end because there’s a lot more.
There’s some violent parts but on a general level it’s an excellent mix of cozy elements and traditional mystery.
I’d happy to read more stories featuring Charlie and Shannon people.
I loved this one and it’s strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bluette Matthey and Partners in Crime for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
The descriptions of the small town and the quirky inhabitants reminded me of Fannie Flagg’s novel. They’re realistic and sweet at the same time.
It’s a novel about secrets and people. There’s a mystery but there’s also a realistic description of the life in a small town after WWII.
Charlie is a great character, clever and strong willed, he won’t start till he discover the truth.
He will discover that there’s a lot of secrets and not everything is as lovely as it seems.
The mystery is solid, full to twists and turns, and even if it wasn’t hard to discover the culprit, it kept me hooked till the end because there’s a lot more.
There’s some violent parts but on a general level it’s an excellent mix of cozy elements and traditional mystery.
I’d happy to read more stories featuring Charlie and Shannon people.
I loved this one and it’s strongly recommended.
Many thanks to Bluette Matthey and Partners in Crime for this ARC, all opinions are mine.
July 16, 2021
When I got into what I will call her working story, I found a suspenseful tale full of twists and turns, with blackmail and murder mixed in.
I always have a fondness for a small-town sheriff and this story has one, one that has just been sworn in before the gruesome crimes. Matthey did not craft a slow-minded small-town cop but a good sheriff, well-defined in words and busy with incidents. Probably many more incidents than he ever thought he would have in a small town.
I wasn’t crazy about Matthey’s picture of a small Midwestern town. I suppose because it was personal; we weren’t all interbred in the town where I grew up, or at least I don’t think we were.
I won’t hide that there are some very quirky characters invented in this book. Some fun; some quite irritating. The story kept me turning the pages and for some readers the ending will seem satisfying, for others…they’ll want more. Actually, I bet everyone will want more anyway. It was a good read.
I always have a fondness for a small-town sheriff and this story has one, one that has just been sworn in before the gruesome crimes. Matthey did not craft a slow-minded small-town cop but a good sheriff, well-defined in words and busy with incidents. Probably many more incidents than he ever thought he would have in a small town.
I wasn’t crazy about Matthey’s picture of a small Midwestern town. I suppose because it was personal; we weren’t all interbred in the town where I grew up, or at least I don’t think we were.
I won’t hide that there are some very quirky characters invented in this book. Some fun; some quite irritating. The story kept me turning the pages and for some readers the ending will seem satisfying, for others…they’ll want more. Actually, I bet everyone will want more anyway. It was a good read.
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