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Kipper Cottage Mystery #3

Death at the Feast

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A fatal feast. A missing body. A seaside sleuth.

Liz McLuckie has retired to Whitby – a picturesque fishing town on the North Yorkshire coast – to recover after the death of her husband. But Whitby isn’t the peaceful retreat she imagined.

When one of Liz’s friends is accused of poisoning the town mayor, Liz is determined to clear her name. She suspects someone has deliberately triggered the mayor’s fatal allergy, but who? The mystery deepens further when the mayor’s body is stolen the night before his funeral. Who would do such a thing? And why? Liz is determined to get to the bottom of it all, with help from her motley collection of friends and Nelson the bull terrier – the ugliest (and bravest!) dog in Yorkshire.

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published June 12, 2022

94 people are currently reading
52 people want to read

About the author

Jan Durham

6 books32 followers
Welcome to Kipper Cottage! I write the Kipper Cottage cozy crime series set in Whitby, featuring amateur sleuth Liz McLuckie and her motley assortment of friends - and of course Nelson, the bravest bull terrier in Yorkshire.

I’d love to live in Whitby (all that sand, sea and fish and chips!) but actually live just outside Edinburgh with my husband, three kids, a one-eyed whippet and a fat black pug. I began my writing career as an advertising copywriter, and have since had novels published by Random House and HarperCollins. I also write for tv.

I enjoy psychological thrillers and crime fiction of all kinds, from the coziest of cozies to the blackest of noirs. I love talking to my readers, so please do get in touch with me via my website – kippercottagemysteries.co.uk - or on Instagram - kippercottagemysteries

Thank you for reading my books!


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5 stars
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208 (34%)
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64 (10%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
Profile Image for Janet.
5,169 reviews67 followers
June 14, 2022
Liz McLuckie a nurse has retired to Whitby after the death of her husband. But Whitby isn’t the peaceful retreat she imagined. The mayor dies at a function where her two friends Tilly & Mags did the catering, then Mags is accused of poisoning the town mayor, Liz is determined to clear her name. She suspects someone has deliberately triggered the mayor’s fatal allergy. The mystery deepens further when the mayor’s body is stolen the night before his funeral.
This is Liz & Nelson, the bull terriers’ third outing & whilst it could easily be read on its own there is a group of characters who appear in each of the books & I love how relationships are growing, changing & developing. I really like Liz who is in her fifties but sometimes acts with the impetuousness of a teenager, her questions can be rude but are direct. There are plenty of twists & turns, as well as red herrings before the case is solved. I also loved how the events take place in the lead up to Christmas & there are light hearted moments when Iris joins the choir!
My honest review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
Profile Image for Maria.
1,199 reviews15 followers
July 17, 2024
This cosy is soooo cosy - but also perfectly serious at times. I like how it balances the feel-goodness of a cosy mystery, while not falling into the silly traps and tropes some other series (usually situated on the other side of the pond, to be honest) frequent just a smidge too much, if you ask me.

"Nelson the bull terrier – the ugliest (and bravest!) dog in Yorkshire" is as usual a delight. So is Liz. I feel like I could become good friends with her.

This particular mystery was really elaborate this time around - and amusingly so. I have no idea how it managed to not be too over the top, but it did, and I enjoyed the heck out of it.

The narrator is absolutely perfect, by the way. Both her voice and way of reading these books: Utter delight! Much recommended!

Now I sadly have to wait until the 4th book is released as an audiobook. Woe is me! I have no idea when it will be out, but will eagerly await more of this series.
Profile Image for Zoé-Lee O'Farrell.
Author 1 book240 followers
December 18, 2022
What a fab cozy mystery this was. And one I thoroughly enjoyed. I loved not playing detective and watching Liz sleuth her way through the book. This is the 3rd book, and I haven’t read the first two, but never fear you will be safe to do so. However, a few breadcrumbs in the book make me want to go back and read the others.

I found a new character to despite, Flint! God that woman was awful and not a great police officer. She was blinkered and has a thing against Liz!! I adored Iris and her loud ways, she seems like a misunderstood soul with her loud voice. And Dora, well she grows on you. They are only the side characters!! I loved Benedict and love to see more of him in the next book.

I just love that this mystery is not about 20-odd-year-olds but 50-odd-year-olds, as some of the scenes were hilarious enough as age played a factor. Nothing insensitive, just a play on things and I enjoyed that.

I seem to be delving more into cozy mysteries lately as they are so easy to become absorbed in. Yes, there are murders. But everything seems lighthearted with our amateur detective and it’s sweet. I just want the next Liz book now!!!

Jans’s writing was a delight to read too! She kept you turning the pages as you become embroiled in the mysteries, the twists and turns, and even the everyday. It was perfectly plotted and thoroughly enjoyable!
Profile Image for CJ Eve.
563 reviews8 followers
June 7, 2022
This genre is one of my guilty pleasures an amateur sleuth novel that gives me some light relief from my more darker choices.

This is book three in the series but this is a first for me and despite the fact that I've missed two books it didn't spoil my enjoyment.

The main character Liz and her side kick Nelson were great fun and likeable, set in the idealistic setting of Whitby a fantastic cosy entertaining mystery which I thoroughly enjoyed.

Profile Image for Rahel Charikar.
454 reviews5 followers
January 14, 2024
Death At The Feast by Jan Durham is a delightful and engaging seaside mystery that blends a picturesque setting with a cleverly crafted whodunit plot. This four-star read introduces readers to Liz McLuckie, who, in her retirement in the charming fishing town of Whitby, finds herself entangled in a web of mystery and intrigue.

The story kicks off with a fatal feast and a missing body, setting the stage for a seaside sleuth adventure. Durham weaves a compelling narrative as Liz McLuckie, grieving the loss of her husband, becomes determined to clear her friend's name when accused of poisoning the town mayor. The stakes are raised when it is suspected that the mayor's fatal allergy was intentionally triggered.

The author skillfully builds suspense and keeps readers guessing as Liz dives into the investigation. The added layer of complexity emerges when the mayor's body is stolen the night before his funeral, leaving Liz and her motley collection of friends, along with Nelson the bull terrier, to unravel the mystery.

Durham's portrayal of Whitby adds charm and atmosphere to the story, making it a character in itself. The seaside setting, coupled with the quirky cast of characters, enhances the reader's immersion into the narrative. The inclusion of Nelson, the bull terrier, adds a touch of humor and bravery to the mix, making the storytelling both heartwarming and entertaining.

As Liz navigates the twists and turns of the investigation, readers are treated to a well-paced and intricately plotted mystery. The resolution is satisfying, and Durham successfully combines elements of suspense, humor, and camaraderie. Death At The Feast is a recommended read for mystery enthusiasts who appreciate a seaside setting, endearing characters, and a cleverly constructed plot. Jan Durham's storytelling prowess shines through, earning this book a well-deserved four-star rating.
Profile Image for Anna.
46 reviews
April 13, 2024
Full of twists
The Mayor of Whitby has died after being poisoned at an event and suspicion immediately falls on the caterer but things aren’t as they seem and Liz is determined to help clear her friends name
I enjoyed this book overall but I will admit that at times I did struggle with Liz, she can be very self centred and doesn’t always seem to think of how her actions can affect others. At the same time however, I did like a lot of the rest of the cast of characters (apart from Nelson) who have flowed through the series which made it easier to read
The story was full of unexpected twists and turns which I really enjoyed and I will admit that I didn’t work out who the killer was until the reveal in the final scenes which shows the cleverness of the writing and the authors ability to pull the reader into the story
I’m going to add as an aside that whilst this book can be read as an individual story, I would recommend reading it in series order, or at least after the first one, because the main characters and their interpersonal relationships are all linked and there isn’t really any explanation of how and why repeated in the series which can cause some slight frustration and make it seem disjointed if you don’t already know (or remember) who they are
I would recommend this book to those who enjoy a murder mystery full of twists and turns that will draw you in and keep you guessing right from the start
Profile Image for Shari.
181 reviews13 followers
December 24, 2022
Having read the first two books in this series, I was thrilled to see number three! It did not disappoint! Once again we visit Liz McLuckie, her friends, neighbours, and other inhabitants of Whitby. And of course, it does not take long for disaster to strike, when the mayor dies of a food allergy at a dinner catered by Liz’ friends Tilly and Mags. Mags is suspected of being careless, a wrongful death lawsuit is filed, and business at the cafe disappears. Liz proceeds to investigate in order to help her friend.

There are various twists and turns as the plot unfolds and I was eager to keep reading to see how it would all end.

The story takes place at Christmastime, which added a fun touch, as did the activities of some of the regulars. There were heartwarming holiday moments as well. Whether you’ve read the previous books in the series or not, I can wholeheartedly recommend this one. I thoroughly enjoyed the first two books, but it’s not necessary to have read them in order to follow along with the characters and the plot. I will definitely keep reading this series.
167 reviews2 followers
September 15, 2022
Well Done!

I'm loving this cozy series. I enjoy all the characters, the plot in this one is very clever and kept me interested until the end. I really like how the Author writes in small glimpses of what gets Liz's wheels turning. This one was delightful and the setting was lovely. The Author is particularly gifted in describing the beautiful village of Whitby. You can tell it's a place she holds dear. I'd love to be starting a new chapter in life in such a quaint village with so many unique and eccentric personalities to call me friends. And who could imagine having a second bite at the apple without a lovely "Nelson" to share the fun with? Perfect reading at a time when we here in the States are mourning with our British friends on the loss of your Queen. A sad and difficult time for all those who love and respect all that Her Majesty did so selflessly for seven decades. Getting lost in this book was a very comforting way to spend time with my grief. Thank you.
Profile Image for Ann.
1,714 reviews
August 29, 2024
Another solid entry in this series. This time Liz gets involved when the town mayor dies at a party catered by her good friend Mags. Mags is sure she only brought non-nut oil as it was made very clear he has an allergy. But somehow, he has a reaction -- and the epi pen his wife always carries fails to work. That's what make Liz suspicious that it's more than just an accident.

Meanwhile, her dog Nelson still has it out for local mostly friendless woman Dora, and Liz herself can't figure out her relationship with Brendan -- and is he off again or on again with local vicar (and Liz's friend) Gilliam. Fortunately, for me, this aspect isn't overly dwelt upon.

There is a much larger amount, in this book, of Liz doing some really dumb stuff, but always it's with a good reason. AND given the local DI is a jerk who has it in for Liz and her pals regardless of the evidence, you can almost understand why she acts as she does. I will be continuing for now.
Profile Image for Betsy pucillo herlihy.
2 reviews
June 30, 2022
Love this!

Loved this series! I feel as if the whole gang is part of the family ! However if there is one thing I would hope to see, it's someone, anyone , standing up to DI Flint. Seriously, coming from a law enforcement family, I don't know many officers who could treat people the way she does and get away with it. She can be gung ho about her job,but as abusive as she is, I can imagine there would be severe repercussions in the real world. So please, maybe have her out in her place and tone down the "bad cop" routine...but thanks for the adventure! Can't wait for the next one (maybe Liz and Benedict will finally get together??)
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,415 reviews12 followers
May 4, 2023
The 3rd book in this lovely cozy mystery series set in Whitby occurs near Christmas and features the untimely death of the Mayor who was also a local businessman.

When one if Liz's friends is accused of his murder, she has no choice to get involved, despite the fact she will run into DI Flint, who has taken an instant dislike to Liz.

This is a really enjoyable cozy mystery series which are all standalone stories, no cliffhangers. Despite this, the books are best read in order of publication to preserve continuity of the characters and series.

If you enjoy reading cosy mysteries, then I highly recommend this series to you.
Profile Image for Anna Sinjin.
Author 24 books17 followers
June 15, 2023
Ugh! Dora and Flint! Worst people! Well, actually, sometimes Dora’s not that bad, but Flint! Worst cop. She should be fired. She was probably transferred there cuz she was terrible in London and they wanted her out. As always, I had a great time reading this book. I thought I knew who the baddie was and was surprised it was so obvious. As usual, I was wrong. Lol

My one complaint was that I could’ve gone with a lot less of the song lyrics. That was annoying to have to sit through, especially as they were repeated more than once practically every time they had the choir practice.
Profile Image for Annarella.
14.2k reviews165 followers
August 6, 2022
This is a delightful series and I thoroughly enjoyed this instalment as the others. Liz and Nelson the dog are great characters and I always have fun in following their investigation.
The Whitby setting is as fascinating as usual and the solid mystery kept me guessing.
i can't wait to read the next story.
Highly recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine
Profile Image for  Sophie.
2,001 reviews
June 12, 2022
This story had a decent storyline that was well written. It had a fun range of characters, both good and bad. The author wrote descriptive scenes that really put the reader into the action with the characters. I loved Liz's interactions with the her friends and her dog.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jeanette.
169 reviews12 followers
October 14, 2022
Another adventure in the world of Liz, Whitby, Nelson et al…..and it doesn’t disappoint. This is probably my favourite one. It has more twists in it and keeps you guessing til the end. I have only recently visited St Mary’s church by the Abbey and the authors description was spot on, I felt transported back there. Can’t wait for the next book.
3 reviews
June 14, 2022
Third novel in this brilliant new mystery series !!

A very well written murder mystery with engaging characters and a vivid background setting. I have now read three in the series and am greatly looking forward to number four!
130 reviews2 followers
June 19, 2022
Perfect for a curl up on the settee

Third book in the series and good to catch up with all the characters again. Another murder mystery aptly solved by an amateur sleigh with a love interest thrown jn.
Profile Image for Janice Clark.
Author 4 books9 followers
June 24, 2022
Once again it's up to Liz McLuckie to unravel the details of a suspicious death or two. This time she needs to clear her friend of suspicion, and nearly becomes a victim herself. Lots of lovely plot twists and turns, red herrings, etc. plus a bit of comedy that would play well in an old silent film. Will there be more in this series? I hope so. I've grown quite fond of the characters.
Profile Image for Janet.
350 reviews6 followers
July 9, 2022
This series is an enjoyable cozy series. The mysteries are good and my favorite thing about these books is their locale. I am fortunate enough to have visited Whitby so I love reading about the people and places in Whitby in these books.
Profile Image for Jacky Mercury.
277 reviews1 follower
September 14, 2022
Christmas mystery

Another fab Kipper cottage book, this time set in the festive season. As someone who knows Whitby well, I enjoy reading about Liz's adventures. I hope there will be more soon.
Profile Image for Jim.
66 reviews2 followers
November 3, 2022
Another great read from Jan!

Continuing the Whitby saga of cozy mysteries Jan comes uo with yet another cracking tale set in one of my favourite places in the UK.
Keep them coming Jan!

4,417 reviews43 followers
June 25, 2022
Who killed Neil Grogan and why??? Liz keeps looking though, doesn’t she??? I enjoyed the story and recommend the book.
697 reviews3 followers
December 6, 2022
Brilliant

Another terrific read.marvellous characters first-class plot developing slowly drawing you in more and more keeping you turning the pages to the end
2 reviews
October 25, 2023
lovely story set in a beautiful town

Really enjoying this series. Good stories and the setting is wonderful. Brings back many happy memories of time in Whitby
95 reviews
November 15, 2023
Wonderful series

Well written series, makes you want to read the next book. I will be sad when I finish the last book in the series.
3,789 reviews7 followers
November 21, 2023
Someone has poisoned the town mayor who is deathly allergic to peanuts and dies at an event catered by Liz’s friend. Now no one wants to eat at her establishment and Liz decides to find out what really happened to help her friend out and her curiosity too. There are many suspects and I have to say I didn’t guess this one. Good story.
Profile Image for Sandra Vdplaats.
587 reviews18 followers
June 14, 2022
Death at the Feast
I am reviewing a seasonal ameteur sleuth detective story with a high Dickensian feel to it, while the summer here is feeling like an oven - and it was such a great and fun read!
Set in 'Gothic' city Whitby - famous for its connection with Bram Stoker - and associated with anything Goth - it's here that Mayor Neil Grogan, 55, dies of a nut allergy after a council party.
Amateur sleuth Liz and her dog Nelson - 'the most ugly dog in the world' - roam the cobbled and narrow streets of Whitby, in search of the killer.

This delightful and atmospheric sleuth mystery will certainly capture your heart: a quick and uplifting read (despite murder), the wonderful characters, a well-developed storyline, with the atmospheric descriptions of beautiful Whitby added as bonus!

Recommended.!!!
4 stars.

I would like to thank Netgalley for this arc. I leave my review voluntarily.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews

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