When Landry Burke’s favorite Aunt Tildie passes away, Landry inherits the entire estate. It includes a five story apartment building named Magnolia Place, as well as a bookstore across the street named Jasmine Bloom Books, both located in Bobwhite Mountain, Tennessee.
Landry packs up and leaves Bent Branch, SC for the hills of Tennessee. On her very first day there, she and her aunt’s attorney, Adam Wilcox, find the body of one of Magnolia Place’s employees. Between her panic attacks, anxiety and trying to adjust to her new surroundings, Landry wants this murder solved and fast.
Sheriff Wyatt Collins and his deputies are on the case. Now, if they can just keep Landry from trying to help and causing danger to herself.
And Jasmine Bloom’s manager, and late Aunt Tildie’s best friend, Ms. Millie, is convinced that Landry is trying to get her killed because of all the zany situations they find themselves in.
Entertaining story! Likeable characters, humor, great mystery, cutie pets, nice setting. It was perplexing to figure out who the real murderer was, and why. I really enjoyed the story and will definitely read the next one. Highly recommend!
Landry Burke was shocked to learn she'd inherited her Aunt Tildie's entire estate, which included Magnolia Place, an apartment building which housed tenants; as well as Jasmine Bloom Books, a bookstore across the road from Magnolia Place. Leaving her home of Bent Branch in South Carolina, for Bobwhite Mountain, Tennessee, meant leaving her best friend Annie, but they remained in contact until Annie could visit. While Aunt Tildie's attorney (now hers) was showing Landry around the apartment building, they were both shocked to discover a man - one of her employees - dead in the kitchen. Could Sheriff Wyatt Collins discover the killer before another person died? Or would it need Landry to become involved, helping to solve the crime?
Inheriting Murder is the 1st in the Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery series by Jamie Rutland Gillespie and I quite enjoyed the fun and entertaining cozy. There was plenty of action, and twists, and I had no clue who the murderer was. Landry's puppy Zep, was cute and the majority of the characters were likeable. I'm keen to read #2 soon. Recommended.
This debut cozy novel takes us to the mountains in Tennessee with some interesting characters, a murder or two, and good ol' southern hospitality.
Landry is a complex yet simple character. She moved to Bobwhite after the passing of her Aunt, and she inherited everything from her. However, there are strings attached to that inheritance. The bookstore and apartment building have to show a profit at the end of her first year as owner. That shouldn't be an issue since it is a small town, and both have been profitable to date. However, a murder in her building might shake things up. Landry suffers from severe anxiety, which causes some issues at various times. However, she is learning to cope, and her new friends recognize her disability and help her through various incidents. Landry also seems to be something of a klutz, and things happen to her that seem out of the ordinary. However, I can relate because sometimes I'm klutzy. I think we all can be at one time or another. I like that she has become good friends with several people in her circle - Adam, the lawyer; Lisa, her office manager; Wyatt, the sheriff, and several others.
Solving the murders is what Landry set out to do, but she somehow stumbles across clues. She at least shares that information with Wyatt so that he can help solve the case quicker. She recognizes that there is something that she knows that would solve this case, but she isn't sure what. I didn't figure out the murderer until right before all was revealed. There is a clue that will help point you in the right direction, but you must be on the lookout for that clue.
There is a dog that ends up in Landry's possession, and he sounds like a cutie. Perhaps this little bundle of fur will help her overcome some of her anxiety.
There is also a potential romance between Landry and Adam. Right now, they are just friends, but I think there might be a few sparks there.
Most of the characters are likable and add some depth to the story. I love Ms. Millie; she is a hoot. And one of her teenage workers, Maisy, has a kind soul, and I look forward to reading more about her in future books.
There are some faith-based comments and beliefs sprinkled throughout the book. I think this adds dimension to the book.
This is a good start for a new author and series, and I look forward to what else happens in this sleepy little town.
This was a fun book to read. And sometimes hard to put down. Landry Burke inherits a bookstore and apartment building from her aunt. On the walk-through with the attorney they find one of the employees dead. Faith based, the story centers around Landry’s attempts to find the murderer while she may be slowly falling for the attorney. I liked the characters and the setting descriptions were beautiful. I also appreciate the Christian aspect of the book and the absence of unnecessary sex scenes. If you like cozy mysteries you should read this book. I am anxiously waiting for the next book in the series to be available.
A cute new cozy series. Landry is quite the character, but inspite of being a "jinx" and "klutz" she is bound and determined to make her late Aunt proud and run the bookstore and apartment building left to her. Before she is even settled in she and the lawyer showing her the building find a dead body and it's one of her employees. While Landry is busy settling in, meeting people and making her place, she can't stop herself from getting in the middle of a murder investigation and more. Definitely worth reading.
When Landry Burk's loveable Aunt Tilde passes away, she finds out she has inherited her entire estate. Not knowing what to expect, she arrives in Bobwhite Mountain, exhausted after driving through the night from Bent Branch, South Carolina. She wanted to make sure she was early to meet with Aunt Tilde’s lawyer, Adam Wilcox. Landry is shocked that Aunt Tilde not only left her Jasmine Bloom Books but the five-story apartment building, Magnolia Place, directly across from the bookstore. The only stipulation, she must show a profit from both buildings in a year. Landry is pretty confident she can accomplish that until she and Adam discover the dead body of one of the employees, in the event center kitchen on the top floor of the building. Will this be an obstacle to overcome in order to keep the apartment building profitable? Landry is determined to find the killer, bringing peace of mind to her residents, as well as locating an art piece from Aunt Tilde’s priceless collection that went missing.
Jamie Rutland Gillespie, is a new author for me. As with many new authors, I never know how the story will unfold, and hold my attention. Well, Inheriting Murder certainly did! Landry is a very likable protagonist, with characteristics that many can identify with. Landry can get panic attacks, which she is trying to get a handle on, as well as what she refers to as being a klutz and a jinx, bringing harm to those around her. We see this in various activities she participates in, making her completely relatable. The secondary characters are well suited and add a fun element to the story. Besides Adam, who is very patient with Landry, one of my favorite characters is Miss Millie, a childhood friend of Aunt Tilde’s, she had me laughing throughout the book,
I was so pleased with this book. Jamie brought the area and characters to life, with her descriptions and endearing personalities. Visiting the town of Bobwhite Mountain would be a great place to go and I look forward to reading the next in the series. There are currently three books in the series, and I highly recommend starting them.
This is my first time reading a book by author, Jamie Rutland Gillespie. I was captivated by this story! I love the small town feeling and the wonderful characters. Aunt Tildie was known and loved by everyone until her death. Landry, her niece who inherited her estate, was warmly welcomed and quickly became an accepted member of the community. Ms. Millie, Aunt Tildie’s best friend, is a fun and dear character. I love how Landry and Ms. Millie bonded. When a dead body is found, Ms. Millie joins Landry in an amateur investigation that leads to a laugh out loud scene. It also leads to a second dead body! Along with the murders there are robberies that need solving. Are these connected or is Landry taking on a full plate? Will she be able to solve these crimes and provide a safe environment for her renters? I was entertained but, have to admit, unable to solve the mysteries myself. I found this book to be a delightful escape from reality and an excellent start to a new series.
This book is a Christian cozy and faith is part of the story. It is free from graphic violence, sex and language.
Inheriting Murder will definitely keep you guessing. Who done it? When Landry inherits her aunts bookstore and Apartment building she immediately starts learning how to run two businesses, and making plenty of friends. A small town with no crime....until Landry gets to town. The first day to be exact, and trouble seems to follow her everywhere. With 2 murders and a string of robberies , has everyone guessing, including me! I definitely recommend this cozy mystery
Landry has her life change dramatically when she inherits a bookstore and an apartment building from her aunt. She is on a tour of one of her new businesses when she discovers the body of one of her employees. Just what has she gotten herself into? Filled with lovable characters and set in a picturesque town, this book is a perfect escape from reality. I found myself ready to pack my bags and move. Can't wait for the next in the series.
This is a new-to-me author. The story is a fun small-town whodunit with likeable characters, crazy coincidences, shady dealings, murder, many suspects, new friendships, new beginnings, and more. Ms. Millie is quite a character. Parts of the story made me laugh out loud. I look forward to reading more by this author.
I love the Tennessee mountains. I could imagine this little town and the people who live here. It is faith based, with some funny things in the mix. I can imagine the characters as real, everyday mountain people. Can't wait for the next book in the series!
What a marvelous debut book from the author. It is a murder mystery set in a small town. It’s a fun ride and the characters are very likable. I’m glad I had the privilege to read this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series. Great job 👏
A great start for a new series. Loved the whodunit mystery and was quite surprised by the ending. Looking forward to reading the next book which is already on my Kindle.
I like the characters and the small town feel. And I really want Landry's apartment. This is a cute story. The murders seem like an afterthought, though; the book is really more about everything Landry eats in a day. (I was truly concerned about the amount of sweet tea she consumes. :)) I appreciate that so many of the characters are Christians. It takes guts to write about faith. It would be nice if she could have a good copy editor/proofreader polish it up. Overall, I enjoyed it, and I will have to read the second one because I am a hopeless romantic and I have to know if anything happens between Landry and Adam.
I enjoyed this book. At first I was a little worried I might get confused with all the characters that were introduced within the store, but the important characters leave a lasting impression so there was no problem remembering them! The mystery is great and the twists just keep coming leaving you always wondering! I can't wait to read the second story to return to Bobwhite Mountain for even more mysteries, hijinks and friendship!
Wow! This was a great first in a series! The main character, Landry Burke, moves to Bobwhite Mountain, Tennessee after her Aunt Tildie passes away. She inherits her aunt's properties. Soon after moving there, though, one of her employees ends up murdered. Landry decides to figure it out. I really enjoyed this story. Landry is a likeable person; someone I could see myself being friends with. I loved her interaction with the secondary characters. I also enjoyed the signs of her faith, such as when she would pray for individuals. The killer was not easy to guess. I also love the fact that recipes were included at the end. I definitely will be reading future books by this talented author.
This is a brand new author for me. I gotta say I absolutely loved it! I read it in two days while also having a full time job! I could not put it down!! From the very beginning you have a mystery and more throughout the book! The twists and turns that this book has had me guessing the entire book!! Read this book!! You will not be disappointed!!! I can not wait for the next one!!
Landry Burke packs up and moves from her hometown of Bent Branch SC to Bobwhite Mountain Tennessee after she inherits the estate of her late Aunt Tildie. The estate includes a five story apartment block and the bookstore across the street. As attorney Adam Wilcox is showing her around the apartment building they discover the body of an employee in the kitchen of the event room. Things get more complicated when it is later discovered that one of her Aunt's most cherished paintings has been stolen from the event room. Landry is sure the two crimes must some how be connected and wants the police to solve it ASAP! Even so, her curious mind can't help but ask a few questions along the way but that may also create more problems for her and the police!
My thoughts: This is the first book in the Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery Series by Jamie Rutland Gillespie. Landry suffers from anxiety and is also a self described klutz. Anxiety can be very debilitating. Though Landry is making a valiant effort to get it under control, she isn't having an easy time of it as she adjusts to her new life and surroundings. She also seems to be a magnet for things that go sideways and ends up in some rather embarrassing situations. Even so, her character is quite likable. Ms. Millie is a hoot with her reactions to Landry and the adventures they get into. Adam, is a handsome attorney and there is obvious chemistry between him and Landry - even if she isn't ready to see it or act on it yet. Sheriff Wyatt Collins is a refreshingly intelligent officer (so many cozies have police as less than competent). Adam and Wyatt are best friends and along with Landry, the threesome are a great team.
The crimes get very complicated and admittedly, I did strongly suspect who killed the employee in the apartment building. I wasn't sure how everything else connected to it till just before the reveal, but getting there was a fun read. The reveal and takedown were good.
"Inheriting Murder" had some really fun, laugh out loud moments, several awkward moments for Landry and some very touching moments that will bring a tear to your eye. The core characters are likable and believable.
There were a handful of spots that I noted what may or may not have been typos. Mostly along the lines of "Landry got her a cup of coffee" or "She got her a bowl of cereal". As these were referring to things she did for herself, I'm not sure if this was just southern phrasing or a typo. Either way, it wasn't critical to the story, just an inconsistency I noticed.
Inheriting Murder by Jamie Rutland Gillespie is the first book of a Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery series set in a small mountain town in Tennessee.
Landry inherits her aunt’s bookstore and an apartment building, so she relocates from her small town in South Carolina, leaving her best friend behind. On her first day there, she comes across a murdered body in her apartment building, and the mystery takes off from there, especially when several more crimes are committed.
There are a lot of twists and turns to the story and clues galore. Of course, Landry wants to solve the murders and thinks she’s assisting the local police. But her new friends, Wyatt, who’s the sheriff, and Adam, her attorney, convince her to let the police handle things so she doesn’t continue to endanger herself.
It was fun getting to know the characters and see their friendships and relationships bloom with Landry. There were a lot of interactions between the characters, and many were heartwarming—as long as the criminals weren’t involved.
Most of the story had a good flow, although, at times, it felt a bit choppy, and I looked back to make sure I hadn’t missed a page in my e-reader.
There are everyday events as Landry tries to fit into her new town as a small business owner and a resident. We get a flavor for the town of Bobwhite Mountain along with many of the businesses located there. Landry reminisces about her aunt’s farm she used to visit in the summer and reconnected with Ms. Millie, her aunt’s best friend, who also manages the bookstore.
There were some laugh-out-loud moments as well as some frightening ones. Landry’s new dog is a cute addition to the story. There is closure with solving the crimes and Landry’s acceptance as an essential part of the community. I love the title and the vividness of the cover.
Jamie Rutland Gillespie has created a delightful small-town feel with engaging characters and that all-important great mystery. I look forward to reading more books in the Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery. Next up for me is Falling For Murder.
This is a GREAT debut novel by Jamie Rutland Gillespie! I loved, enjoyed and totally had a great time reading this book. Ms. Gillespie has created characters that are so likeable and I easily connected to most of them. Landry is her protagonist and I felt her personality right away in the beginning of the book. She's so personable and her "accidents and jinxes" were comical. I loved the way she connected to the other characters and her empathy for the people made me want to know her even more. And be there for her as she takes on the new life she's suddenly inherited from her Aunt Tildie in the little town of Bobwhite Mountain. The characters were entertaining, captivating and uplifting and a few were ominous. After Landry, Ms. Millie was an absolute favorite. She was a hoot and had me laughing.
This cozy mystery had everything I could want in the story. Great characters, a mountain setting that called to me, a murder mystery (actually two) that pulled me through the pages trying to figure out "who dunnit", the beginning of an attraction for Landry and Adam and humor that made me laugh. I also appreciate the faith references and how it's a part of Landry's story.
I gladly recommend this book and am so glad I took a journey to Bobwhite Mountain with Landry in the pages of this book. I am really looking forward to reading the next book in the series, Falling For Murder. I can't wait to see where Ms. Gillespie takes me on the next adventure!
I want to thank Ms. Gillespie for the honor and privilege of spending time in the pages of this book. It was an escape that made my heart happy. It's certainly a five star read for me. All opinions and thoughts in this review are my heartfelt own.
Inheriting Murder by Jamie Rutland Gillespie is an engaging and comforting cozy mystery that offers a balance of suspense, humor, and heartfelt character development. Rather than relying solely on dramatic twists, the novel’s strength lies in its well-rounded storytelling and inviting atmosphere. The story is centered around Landry Burke, who is easy to relate to and genuinely enjoyable to follow. Landry’s imperfections make her feel realistic rather than idealized. These traits add depth to her character and allow readers to connect with her growth as she navigates change and responsibility. Her journey feels organic, shaped by everyday challenges as much as by the mystery itself. One of the most appealing aspects of the book is its small-town setting. The town is portrayed as warm and welcoming, filled with memorable characters who contribute personality and charm to the story. The sense of community plays an important role, creating a cozy atmosphere that balances the tension typical of a mystery novel. Gillespie’s writing style is approachable and smooth, making the book an easy and enjoyable read. The pacing allows readers to stay engaged without feeling rushed, and the mystery unfolds naturally alongside the characters interactions. Another notable feature is the way the novel incorporates themes of personal growth, belonging, and faith. These elements are handled gently and thoughtfully, enhancing the emotional depth of the story without overpowering its mystery elements. Overall, Inheriting Murder is a well crafted cozy mystery that appeals to readers who enjoy character driven story set in a charming community. Its likable leading lady, inviting setting, and balanced tone make it an enjoyable and satisfying read, as well as a strong introduction to a mystery series.
Inheriting Murder is the first book in the Bobwhite Mountain Cozy Mystery series by Jamie Rutland Gillespie. When her Aunt Tildie passes away, Landry Burke inherits her entire estate including a five story apartment building, the Magnolia Place, and a bookstore, Jasmine Bloom Books in the town of Bobwhite Mountain, Tennessee. On her first day in town, she and Adam Wilcox, her aunt’s attorney, discover the body of one of Magnolia Place’s doormen. Trying to adjust to her new home and now with a murder investigation to deal with doesn’t help her panic attacks and anxiety. Sheriff Wyatt Collins is on the case. Landry just can’t seem to leave the investigation to the sheriff. When the investigation leads to the discovery of art theft, Landry can’t help but wonder if the two crimes are connected? Inheriting Murder is the debut novel by Ms. Gillespie and I look forward to many more. With all the quirkiness of small town characters, Inheriting Murder had me laughing and smiling at the situations that Landry finds herself in. One particular incident had me shaking my head and thinking “Only you, Landry!” and I just met the character! Trouble just seems to follow her to the point that Ms Millie, Aunt Tildie’s best friend, is wary of Landry. The story isn’t short on suspects, even for a small town, that I thought would behind the murder and the art theft. The reveal at the killer was great and surprising. Overall, I enjoyed Inheriting Murder and look forward to the rest of the series. If you enjoy cozy mysteries, I recommend Inheriting Murder.
Inheriting Murder is available in paperback and eBook
When Landry Burke finds out her beloved Aunt Tildie had died and left her her estate,WOW, So sad her aunt had passed,now what? Off in her teal blue VW to Bobwhite Mountain ,Tennessee! She meets with her aunt's lawyer,and the Mystery evolves! She not only inherited the Estate,but Also Murder! Thank you Jamie Rutland Gillespie for this fantastic read,and I will soon be adding books 2&3 to my reviews📚
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
An excellent cozy mystery that keeps you guessing when Landry moves to the mountains to take over her grandmother's businesses weird accidents seem to happen whenever Landry is around and she is sure she is a jinx. This book is funny but an excellent murder my mystery also and I enjoyed it so much that I ordered the next two books in the series.
Lynsey inherits a book store and apartment building from her aunt. Unfortunately while doing a walk through with her attorney they discovered a dead body. The things they went through to solve the case kept everyone pretty busy. Fun story
I highly enjoyed Landry. She comes across as an old soul and an odd ball. She doesn't act her age of 27. She seems older. I felt that way about Adam too. I did find it odd how trusting Landry is. New to town and she is already trusting people to stay in her apartment while she talks to police or letting employees she just met to carry her belongings into her apartment without her being there. I am not bashing it. I am from the South but maybe I don't fully understand southern hospitality. Or maybe I'm just that jaded? In other words, Landry is a sweet soul and is automatically trusting. It is refreshing. With all that said, I was way off on who I thought the killer was. I thought Landry being naive would lead to the killers. I was wrong. Oh, and chapter 2 is hilarious. I'd be mortified.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
This is an enjoyable, cozy mystery. Landry inherits her aunt's bookstore and apartment building and moves to the small town to try to make the bookstore a success. She didn't know that she would find herself in the middle of a murder investigation. She meets some fun characters and is quite a character herself! I will definitely be reading the next book in the series, Falling For Murder to see what predicaments Landry gets herself into next!