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Stamford Mysteries #1
Death at the Auction
A brilliant whodunnit mystery perfect for fans of M.C. Beaton and Richard Osman!
Murder stalks the cobbles in England’s finest Georgian town…
When an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family’s auction house in Stamford, she vows it’ll only be a flying visit. But as the gavel falls on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed—the body of her father’s business rival, murdered during the packed sale!
Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the community as a potential suspect―including her.
As the body count rises and with the people she loves under threat, Felicia takes matters into her own hands. But even the most picturesque place has its secrets…
Murder stalks the cobbles in England’s finest Georgian town…
When an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family’s auction house in Stamford, she vows it’ll only be a flying visit. But as the gavel falls on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed—the body of her father’s business rival, murdered during the packed sale!
Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the community as a potential suspect―including her.
As the body count rises and with the people she loves under threat, Felicia takes matters into her own hands. But even the most picturesque place has its secrets…
383 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 18, 2022
134 people are currently reading
682 people want to read
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February 3, 2024
Death at the Auction is the first book in what I am hoping will turn out to be a long-running Cozy Mystery series.
This story follows Felicia Grant. Felicia's family owns a popular Auction House in her home village of Stamford. After a falling out with her father over the direction of the business, Felicia left the auction-life behind and moved to London, along with her son, Algernon.
When Felicia gets an early-morning call from her best friend, Cassie, back in Stamford, she knows it can't be good news and it's not.
Her father has had a fall. He's okay, but pretty banged up and he'll be unable to auctioneer at the auction set for that very day. Felicia is the only one with the knowledge and expertise to successfully fill in. There's a lot on the line; a lot of money they can't afford to lose.
Can she come right away?
Felicia agrees, packs Algie and off they go. She's full of competing emotions as she heads to Stamford. It's been a while. There's estranged relationships to consider.
Additionally, she's been out of the business for quite some time. Will her auctioneering skills have suffered?
Once the auction begins, Felicia slips into her old role with ease. It's actually nice to see so many familiar faces and the buzz of the sale is contagious.
All is going swimmingly right up until the final lot. As it is open for bids, Felicia's exuberant ex-husband Dexter bursts in, interrupting the entire process and then a body falls out of a large antique cupboard set at the back of the room.
The very dead body of one of her Dad's greatest rivals.
As investigators begin to look into the crime, Felicia, Dexter and a whole-host of locals find themselves as suspects. Felicia, unable to leave well-enough alone, decides to do a little digging of her own. She's determined to clear her name and lift the cloud from over the auction house.
Death at the Auction was a ton of fun. I loved the setting and the characters. It's definitely a great start to a new series. I can't wait to get to know them more.
Felicia was so great as a main. She's extremely likable and I found her feelings and motivations easy to understand and relate to. The other characters were interesting as well.
Dexter, her ex, is quite the minx, adding a bit of humor to the story. Their son is sweet, precocious and wise beyond his years. There's also Detective Pettifer, the intrepid investigator trying to get to the bottom of this mess.
One of the highlights for me was the relationship that develops between Felicia and Pettifer. He seems to take a bit of a shine to her and the two interact fairly frequently over the course of the investigation.
There's definitely a budding friendship and I could totally see him consulting her on future cases. I loved their back-and-forth and the trust that started to build between them.
I also really enjoyed Felicia's relationships with all of her family members. Her son is such a sweetheart. He's very quiet, yet inquisitive. He sort of does what he likes, but I feel like it's because Felicia has the confidence in him to give him a bit of independence.
Dexter and Felicia also have great banter and it was fun watching her interact with her grumpy Dad after such a long time. I want more!
Some of the extraneous variables of the mystery I found a little hard to track, but overall I had so much fun with this. It's a great foundation to build many more mysteries from. I am certainly looking forward to being reunited with Felicia and friends.
Thank you so much to the publisher, One More Chapter, for providing me with a copy to read and review. If you love a solid Cozy, with a fun group of characters and compelling mystery, you should absolutely give this one a shot!
This story follows Felicia Grant. Felicia's family owns a popular Auction House in her home village of Stamford. After a falling out with her father over the direction of the business, Felicia left the auction-life behind and moved to London, along with her son, Algernon.
When Felicia gets an early-morning call from her best friend, Cassie, back in Stamford, she knows it can't be good news and it's not.
Her father has had a fall. He's okay, but pretty banged up and he'll be unable to auctioneer at the auction set for that very day. Felicia is the only one with the knowledge and expertise to successfully fill in. There's a lot on the line; a lot of money they can't afford to lose.
Can she come right away?
Felicia agrees, packs Algie and off they go. She's full of competing emotions as she heads to Stamford. It's been a while. There's estranged relationships to consider.
Additionally, she's been out of the business for quite some time. Will her auctioneering skills have suffered?
Once the auction begins, Felicia slips into her old role with ease. It's actually nice to see so many familiar faces and the buzz of the sale is contagious.
All is going swimmingly right up until the final lot. As it is open for bids, Felicia's exuberant ex-husband Dexter bursts in, interrupting the entire process and then a body falls out of a large antique cupboard set at the back of the room.
The very dead body of one of her Dad's greatest rivals.
As investigators begin to look into the crime, Felicia, Dexter and a whole-host of locals find themselves as suspects. Felicia, unable to leave well-enough alone, decides to do a little digging of her own. She's determined to clear her name and lift the cloud from over the auction house.
Death at the Auction was a ton of fun. I loved the setting and the characters. It's definitely a great start to a new series. I can't wait to get to know them more.
Felicia was so great as a main. She's extremely likable and I found her feelings and motivations easy to understand and relate to. The other characters were interesting as well.
Dexter, her ex, is quite the minx, adding a bit of humor to the story. Their son is sweet, precocious and wise beyond his years. There's also Detective Pettifer, the intrepid investigator trying to get to the bottom of this mess.
One of the highlights for me was the relationship that develops between Felicia and Pettifer. He seems to take a bit of a shine to her and the two interact fairly frequently over the course of the investigation.
There's definitely a budding friendship and I could totally see him consulting her on future cases. I loved their back-and-forth and the trust that started to build between them.
I also really enjoyed Felicia's relationships with all of her family members. Her son is such a sweetheart. He's very quiet, yet inquisitive. He sort of does what he likes, but I feel like it's because Felicia has the confidence in him to give him a bit of independence.
Dexter and Felicia also have great banter and it was fun watching her interact with her grumpy Dad after such a long time. I want more!
Some of the extraneous variables of the mystery I found a little hard to track, but overall I had so much fun with this. It's a great foundation to build many more mysteries from. I am certainly looking forward to being reunited with Felicia and friends.
Thank you so much to the publisher, One More Chapter, for providing me with a copy to read and review. If you love a solid Cozy, with a fun group of characters and compelling mystery, you should absolutely give this one a shot!
November 6, 2022
Death at the Auction
by E. C. Bateman is the first book in the Stamford cozy mystery series. This one takes place in Lincolnshire, England in the historic town of Stamford and features Felicia Grant, ex-auctioneer who currently manages a gallery in London. Cassie, her best friend from her hometown calls and tells her she needs to fill in as auctioneer. Felicia’s father fell down some steps and broke his leg. As the final lot comes up for bid, her ex-husband Dexter shows up and a body falls out of a cupboard. The many suspects include Felicia and Dexter as well as a myriad of locals.
The character development is fantastic in this one. The relationships felt real and varied. Felicia gave up her dream job of auctioneering when she and her father couldn’t decide how to run the business together. She’s intent on clearing the family name. Dexter is affable and outgoing, but unreliable as his priorities have been towards fame and adulation. Their son, Algernon, is quiet and tends to observe situations. The other characters run the gamut from her supportive Cassie to patronizing and judgmental DCI Heavenly to Felicia’s curmudgeonly father.
The world-building transported me to Stamford. I could easily envision the town’s homes and stores as well as the churches and park. The dialogue felt natural and the plot was twisty with several subplots, a few exciting scenes, some unpredictable moments, and several suspects. The story captivated me with its riveting mystery. The ending was satisfactory and has several threads for future books in the series.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with some humor to go with the mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who enjoy amateur sleuths, a wide array of characters, and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and E. C. Bateman provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for November 18, 2022.
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My 3.98 rounded to 4 star review is coming soon.
The character development is fantastic in this one. The relationships felt real and varied. Felicia gave up her dream job of auctioneering when she and her father couldn’t decide how to run the business together. She’s intent on clearing the family name. Dexter is affable and outgoing, but unreliable as his priorities have been towards fame and adulation. Their son, Algernon, is quiet and tends to observe situations. The other characters run the gamut from her supportive Cassie to patronizing and judgmental DCI Heavenly to Felicia’s curmudgeonly father.
The world-building transported me to Stamford. I could easily envision the town’s homes and stores as well as the churches and park. The dialogue felt natural and the plot was twisty with several subplots, a few exciting scenes, some unpredictable moments, and several suspects. The story captivated me with its riveting mystery. The ending was satisfactory and has several threads for future books in the series.
Overall, this was a fun and entertaining novel with some humor to go with the mystery. I am looking forward to reading the next book in the series. Readers who enjoy amateur sleuths, a wide array of characters, and cozy mysteries will likely enjoy this novel.
HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and E. C. Bateman provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. This is my honest review. Opinions are mine alone and are not biased in any way. Publication date is currently set for November 18, 2022.
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My 3.98 rounded to 4 star review is coming soon.
November 30, 2022
EXCERPT: The staircase ended at a door. Nudging it open, Felicia poked her head around, eyes widening. Moonlight spilled through the tall sash windows, casting the room in a silvery, chequered pattern. Pale cream paneling lined the walls, finely moulded with a frieze of fruiting vines. High above their heads, an enormous crystal chandelier sprouted from the centre of an intricate plaster ceiling rose. The floor space was dominated in the centre by a colossal four poster bed, heavy tapestry curtains hanging loose.
They certainly weren't in the servants' quarters now.
'A hidden door,' Dexter surveyed the doorway they'd just passed through, the front of which was decorated to match the wall that surrounded it. He let it go and it closed soundlessly, melting seamlessly back into the plaster. Unless you knew where to look, the joins were almost impossible to see. 'Very neat.'
'Dexter, look.' Advancing into the room, Felicia pointed at the fire, the coals of which still glowed faintly in the grate. 'Someone's been here recently.'
'Well, they're not here now.' Dexter strolled over to the high wing-backed armchair, which faced the fire. 'So we might as well . . .'
Surprised at the way he broke off, Felicia turned to see him staring down at the chair, eyes wide in shock. Her heart jolted.
'Dexter?' she rasped, suddenly finding that her throat was tight with fear. 'What . . . what is it?'
ABOUT 'DEATH AT THE AUCTION': Murder stalks the cobbles in England’s finest Georgian town…
When an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family’s auction house in Stamford, she vows it’ll only be a flying visit. But as the gavel falls on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed—the body of her father’s business rival, murdered during the packed sale!
Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the community as a potential suspect―including her.
As the body count rises and with the people she loves under threat, Felicia takes matters into her own hands. But even the most picturesque place has its secrets…
MY THOUGHTS: I love British murder mysteries, and if this is the start of a new series, it's going to be a good one.
Felicia and Dexter are recently divorced and she has returned home to Stamford with their twelve year old son Algernon to help out after her father breaks his leg. Imagine her surprise when a body falls out of the final lot - a Jacobean cupboard. Felicia and Dexter, who turns up just as the body makes its impromptu appearance, instantly become the main suspects.
Algernon is the pick of the characters. He's a very observant twelve year old and has an enquiring nature. He's also just getting to that age where he's not going to take any nonsense from his parents.
The other main character is the detective, Pettifer, who has a face which looks like it's been repeatedly hit by a shovel and who is somewhat enchanted by Felicia, giving her far more leeway in the investigation than should be allowed.
This is an intelligent rather than a 'cute' cosy mystery with good character development, an excellent setting and a solid murder mystery to be solved. There are several subplots and numerous red herrings culminating in a surprising revelation. The characters private lives are almost as interesting as the murder mystery making this an all round good read that I hope will be developed into a series.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#DeathattheAuction #NetGalley
I: @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc
T: @HarperCollinsUK @OneMoreChapter
#contemporaryfiction #cosymystery #familydrama #murdermystery #smalltownfiction
THE AUTHOR: E.C. Bateman is a novelist and antique jewellery specialist. Having made the questionable decision to marry an auctioneer, she moved to Stamford and dreamt up the idea for this series whilst living in a converted Georgian flat overlooking St. Mary’s Church in the heart of town. They’ve since decamped to the surrounding countryside with their baby daughter, but can still be spotted around the cobbled streets on a regular basis, usually being dragged along by their effervescent cocker spaniel, Audrey.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter, via Netgalley, for providing a digital ARC of Death at the Auction by E.C. Bateman for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
They certainly weren't in the servants' quarters now.
'A hidden door,' Dexter surveyed the doorway they'd just passed through, the front of which was decorated to match the wall that surrounded it. He let it go and it closed soundlessly, melting seamlessly back into the plaster. Unless you knew where to look, the joins were almost impossible to see. 'Very neat.'
'Dexter, look.' Advancing into the room, Felicia pointed at the fire, the coals of which still glowed faintly in the grate. 'Someone's been here recently.'
'Well, they're not here now.' Dexter strolled over to the high wing-backed armchair, which faced the fire. 'So we might as well . . .'
Surprised at the way he broke off, Felicia turned to see him staring down at the chair, eyes wide in shock. Her heart jolted.
'Dexter?' she rasped, suddenly finding that her throat was tight with fear. 'What . . . what is it?'
ABOUT 'DEATH AT THE AUCTION': Murder stalks the cobbles in England’s finest Georgian town…
When an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family’s auction house in Stamford, she vows it’ll only be a flying visit. But as the gavel falls on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed—the body of her father’s business rival, murdered during the packed sale!
Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the community as a potential suspect―including her.
As the body count rises and with the people she loves under threat, Felicia takes matters into her own hands. But even the most picturesque place has its secrets…
MY THOUGHTS: I love British murder mysteries, and if this is the start of a new series, it's going to be a good one.
Felicia and Dexter are recently divorced and she has returned home to Stamford with their twelve year old son Algernon to help out after her father breaks his leg. Imagine her surprise when a body falls out of the final lot - a Jacobean cupboard. Felicia and Dexter, who turns up just as the body makes its impromptu appearance, instantly become the main suspects.
Algernon is the pick of the characters. He's a very observant twelve year old and has an enquiring nature. He's also just getting to that age where he's not going to take any nonsense from his parents.
The other main character is the detective, Pettifer, who has a face which looks like it's been repeatedly hit by a shovel and who is somewhat enchanted by Felicia, giving her far more leeway in the investigation than should be allowed.
This is an intelligent rather than a 'cute' cosy mystery with good character development, an excellent setting and a solid murder mystery to be solved. There are several subplots and numerous red herrings culminating in a surprising revelation. The characters private lives are almost as interesting as the murder mystery making this an all round good read that I hope will be developed into a series.
⭐⭐⭐.5
#DeathattheAuction #NetGalley
I: @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc
T: @HarperCollinsUK @OneMoreChapter
#contemporaryfiction #cosymystery #familydrama #murdermystery #smalltownfiction
THE AUTHOR: E.C. Bateman is a novelist and antique jewellery specialist. Having made the questionable decision to marry an auctioneer, she moved to Stamford and dreamt up the idea for this series whilst living in a converted Georgian flat overlooking St. Mary’s Church in the heart of town. They’ve since decamped to the surrounding countryside with their baby daughter, but can still be spotted around the cobbled streets on a regular basis, usually being dragged along by their effervescent cocker spaniel, Audrey.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter, via Netgalley, for providing a digital ARC of Death at the Auction by E.C. Bateman for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
For an explanation of my rating system please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com
This review is also published on Twitter, Amazon, Instagram and my webpage https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
October 13, 2022
A very readable novel and ideal for fans of Richard Osman’s books. Beautifully set in the gorgeous Stamford, this murder mystery will keep you guessing as the bodies stack up! Full of red herrings, twists and turns, wonderful characters and fabulous houses. This is a cosy murder book, as there are no grisly details, but it is well written and very enjoyable. Highly recommended and I really hope that this is going to be a new series of books featuring Felicia, Algie, Dexter, Peter and the wonderful detective Pettiffer. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 17, 2022
The Stamford Mysteries Book 1
when an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family's auction house in Stamford, she vows it will only be a flying visit. But as the gavel fall on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed - the body of her father's business rival, murdered during the packed sale! Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the village a suspect - including her.
When a body is discovered in a wardrobe at the auction house, Felicia Grant, along with everyone else at the auction, becomes a suspect. So, Felicia decides she must investigate. The characters are well rounded, likeable, and believable. The pace is steady throughout. Life gets even more complicated for Felicia in this cosy murder mystery. There are a few red herrings and some clues along the way. This is a great start to a new murder mystery series. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #ECBateman for my ARC of #MurderAtTheAuction in exchange for an honest review.
when an accident forces Felicia Grant back to her family's auction house in Stamford, she vows it will only be a flying visit. But as the gavel fall on the final lot, a hidden secret is revealed - the body of her father's business rival, murdered during the packed sale! Soon, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has everyone in the village a suspect - including her.
When a body is discovered in a wardrobe at the auction house, Felicia Grant, along with everyone else at the auction, becomes a suspect. So, Felicia decides she must investigate. The characters are well rounded, likeable, and believable. The pace is steady throughout. Life gets even more complicated for Felicia in this cosy murder mystery. There are a few red herrings and some clues along the way. This is a great start to a new murder mystery series. I'm already looking forward to the next book.
I would like to thank #NetGalley #HarperCollinsUK #OneMoreChapter and the author #ECBateman for my ARC of #MurderAtTheAuction in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2023
I loved this cosy mystery! So fun, and engaging and I learned a lot of new words on every page, haha!
So it's a win-win for me. :)
I have been a little apprehensive about cosy mysteries lately, as I have been burned quite a lot! But this was a truly enjoyable read. It was fun and that is what I wanted from this book.
I must admit, I thought the ending was a little oh-ok-then but still kinda clever.
Cannot wait for the next instalment in this new series :)
Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley!
So it's a win-win for me. :)
I have been a little apprehensive about cosy mysteries lately, as I have been burned quite a lot! But this was a truly enjoyable read. It was fun and that is what I wanted from this book.
I must admit, I thought the ending was a little oh-ok-then but still kinda clever.
Cannot wait for the next instalment in this new series :)
Thank you for the ARC, NetGalley!
November 7, 2022
A quick, easy, cute and cosy murder mystery that is well written with a cast of well developed characters and a compelling storyline. The book is full of vivid descriptions and rich imagery and it made me want to jump in the pages and help solve the mystery
October 27, 2022
A cosy Miss Marple type of book.
Very slow going with a couple of murders, one at a auction, in a quiet village full of secrets, and a few twists at the end.
I loved Algernon a very intelligent 12yr old with a brilliant memory, would make a brilliant Detective in future books.
If you like cosy reads this book is for you.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
Very slow going with a couple of murders, one at a auction, in a quiet village full of secrets, and a few twists at the end.
I loved Algernon a very intelligent 12yr old with a brilliant memory, would make a brilliant Detective in future books.
If you like cosy reads this book is for you.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the ARC.
March 12, 2023
I wanted to like this so much more than I did. I enjoyed the repartee between Felicia and Pettifer but there were too many characters to keep track of and it was just too long for my liking.
November 7, 2022
Delectably descriptive Stamford, England, is the setting for this downright superbly witty cozy mystery. Reading it gave me so much joy as I chuckled here and there at the sheer cleverness and cunning writing, eager to absorb every single word. Author E. C. Bateman certainly has a splendid way of describing things from flowers to houses to food to quirky characters, very insightful and humorous. How thrilling that this is the first in a new series!
The gift of the gab runs in the Grant family. When Felicia's father has an accident and cannot fulfill auctioneer duties at a sale she returns to where she used to live to fill in on short notice. A dead body sparks excitement and unease, the suspect list is as long as a piece of string and Felicia is on it. A blast from the past arrives at the scene adding to the mix. You can't throw a brick without hitting a red herring. Sergeant Pettifer and Algernon are endearing and marvellous and even Peter has his moments.
Death at the Auction will satiate your craving for a brilliant mystery on a different sphere altogether. It is not trite but instead full of creative originality which I practically chomp at the bit for. It reminds me of Richard Osman with snippets of P. G. Wodehouse, one of my favourite authors of all time. In other words, this one is unmissable for any Cozy Mystery genre fan as well as those who are unsure about the cliched coziness in cozies. It has oomph and isn't all roses and sunshine. It was also fun to learn more about auctions.
My sincere thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this stellar book. Hopefully the second in the series will be available instanter!
The gift of the gab runs in the Grant family. When Felicia's father has an accident and cannot fulfill auctioneer duties at a sale she returns to where she used to live to fill in on short notice. A dead body sparks excitement and unease, the suspect list is as long as a piece of string and Felicia is on it. A blast from the past arrives at the scene adding to the mix. You can't throw a brick without hitting a red herring. Sergeant Pettifer and Algernon are endearing and marvellous and even Peter has his moments.
Death at the Auction will satiate your craving for a brilliant mystery on a different sphere altogether. It is not trite but instead full of creative originality which I practically chomp at the bit for. It reminds me of Richard Osman with snippets of P. G. Wodehouse, one of my favourite authors of all time. In other words, this one is unmissable for any Cozy Mystery genre fan as well as those who are unsure about the cliched coziness in cozies. It has oomph and isn't all roses and sunshine. It was also fun to learn more about auctions.
My sincere thank you to HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for the privilege of reading this stellar book. Hopefully the second in the series will be available instanter!
November 10, 2022
Death at the Auction by E. C. Bateman is the first book in the Stamford Mysteries, and it's a good one! 🔎
I'm a sucker for a British murder mystery. This one is set in an auction house in historic Samford, England. Beautifully descriptive, from the historic homes to the scenery and rare antiques, the author drops you right into the charming setting just as a shocking death occurs.
Cleverly plotted, the mix of humor, good character development, and a solid mystery make this a compelling read. Multiple subplots, red herrings, and some twists kept me guessing. I was impressed with the dialogue and writing. No spoilers, but the MC, Felicia, has some complicated family situations, and it was interesting to see the family dynamics play out alongside the investigative aspects. While this is a cozy mystery, it isn't a "cute" cozy, but rather an intelligent whodunnit. If you enjoy British murder mysteries, you'll want to add this one to your tbr! I can't wait for the next one, and I'll keep this author on my radar!
Thank you to @netgalley @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc and @ecbatemanbooks for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'm a sucker for a British murder mystery. This one is set in an auction house in historic Samford, England. Beautifully descriptive, from the historic homes to the scenery and rare antiques, the author drops you right into the charming setting just as a shocking death occurs.
Cleverly plotted, the mix of humor, good character development, and a solid mystery make this a compelling read. Multiple subplots, red herrings, and some twists kept me guessing. I was impressed with the dialogue and writing. No spoilers, but the MC, Felicia, has some complicated family situations, and it was interesting to see the family dynamics play out alongside the investigative aspects. While this is a cozy mystery, it isn't a "cute" cozy, but rather an intelligent whodunnit. If you enjoy British murder mysteries, you'll want to add this one to your tbr! I can't wait for the next one, and I'll keep this author on my radar!
Thank you to @netgalley @harpercollinsuk @onemorechapterhc and @ecbatemanbooks for the gifted ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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November 11, 2022Years after arguing with her father, Felicia Grant left the family’s auction business she loved so much. But when her father has an accident on an auction day Felicia is the only one who can take over. One auction, that’s all she has to do. But then the last lot of the day wasn’t supposed to include a dead body.
What a debut E. C. Bateman! This is just so original for a “cozy”—in the sense that we have a character who truly is a “reluctant amateur detective”. Cleverly plotted, filled with humor, characters that are engaging and endearing. The vivid detail brings Stamford to life. And with it’s subplots and many red herrings, it has a very solid mystery!
Loved it! Want to read the next installment now!
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter.
What a debut E. C. Bateman! This is just so original for a “cozy”—in the sense that we have a character who truly is a “reluctant amateur detective”. Cleverly plotted, filled with humor, characters that are engaging and endearing. The vivid detail brings Stamford to life. And with it’s subplots and many red herrings, it has a very solid mystery!
Loved it! Want to read the next installment now!
My thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins UK, One More Chapter.
May 19, 2024
A decent start to a cosy crime series. A good listen. Well narrated. Enjoyed it for the local setting. Recommended.
October 15, 2022
I received a free copy of, Death at the Auction, by E.C. Bateman, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Felicia has to fill in for her father who is an auctioneer, but when someone is murdered, Felicia, has a murder to solve. This town is full of secrets and lies, Felicia and her son are endearing characters, an enjoyable read.
November 10, 2022
Having worked in an auction house, I may be biased, but I loved the setting of this book!
Between the headstrong and competent Felicia and her charming and intelligent son, the mystery is a fun one to follow.
I wish there was more background on some of the characters throughout since they’re so unique and at times quite eccentric.
I loved the twists and turns of the mystery and the family dynamics of the Grants. An enjoyable mystery novel in small-town England.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK and #OneMoreChapter for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
Between the headstrong and competent Felicia and her charming and intelligent son, the mystery is a fun one to follow.
I wish there was more background on some of the characters throughout since they’re so unique and at times quite eccentric.
I loved the twists and turns of the mystery and the family dynamics of the Grants. An enjoyable mystery novel in small-town England.
Thank you to #NetGalley, #HarperCollinsUK and #OneMoreChapter for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
January 3, 2023
I really enjoyed the first half of this but got really quite lost in the second half. The pacing was a bit strange, and there seemed to be a lot of characters who I realized (at the end when the murderer was announced) I had been getting mixed up. Probably because I was listening on audiobook - perhaps reading a hard copy might have been easier to work out who was who.
April 22, 2023
Struggled to get through the middle of this one. It was OK. I didn't like the main character and the ending was a bit silly.
November 19, 2022
“Death at the Auction” (The Stamford Mysteries#1) by E.C. Bateman ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Genre: Cozy Mystery. Location: Stamford, Lincolnshire, England. Time: April/Present.
“A calculated, audacious murder on a sunny Saturday in the middle of a packed auction room…”
When her estranged father breaks his leg, Felicia Grant returns home
from London to run his Saturday auction-the business she left 8 years ago. During her 1st time auctioneering in many years, the dead body of her father’s business rival tumbles out of a Jacobean oak cupboard. Another death follows, and suddenly Felicia and her ex-husband Derek are the main suspects. Luckily, gruff but kindly Sargeant Pettifer doesn’t think they did it. But with Pettifer’s boss pushing for a quick conviction, Felicia better get busy and find the real killer or killers.
Author Bateman creates a wide variety of cozy mystery characters. There’s the precocious 12 year old, the fluffy grandma who bakes, the elegant 90 year old widow, the recluse in his crumbling mansion, the odd couple, the scheming businessman, the egotistical tv star. She adds twists and turns galore-if you enjoy Agatha Christie (the mother of red herrings), you’ll appreciate this.
Bateman also gives us an Agatha Christie-worthy English town she calls “..a provincial pocket of middle England.” and “..one of England’s bastions of old-fashioned gentility.” There are lovely, detailed descriptions of a real town. You can look it up online and see photos of the exact streets and parks she describes. A map in the book would have been nice. Although the occasional description might be a bit much (“…slammed it against the wall with a peevish lack of nominative determinism.”), overall the prose is just right for its genre.
E.C. Bateman is not just a novelist. She’s also an antique jewelry specialist married to an auctioneer, so you can rest assured the book is well researched. If you enjoy M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman, or Agatha Christie, I’m betting you’ll like E.C. Bateman. I like all of them, and now I like her as well so it’s 4 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️ Thank you to NetGalley and EC Bateman for the early copy.
“A calculated, audacious murder on a sunny Saturday in the middle of a packed auction room…”
When her estranged father breaks his leg, Felicia Grant returns home
from London to run his Saturday auction-the business she left 8 years ago. During her 1st time auctioneering in many years, the dead body of her father’s business rival tumbles out of a Jacobean oak cupboard. Another death follows, and suddenly Felicia and her ex-husband Derek are the main suspects. Luckily, gruff but kindly Sargeant Pettifer doesn’t think they did it. But with Pettifer’s boss pushing for a quick conviction, Felicia better get busy and find the real killer or killers.
Author Bateman creates a wide variety of cozy mystery characters. There’s the precocious 12 year old, the fluffy grandma who bakes, the elegant 90 year old widow, the recluse in his crumbling mansion, the odd couple, the scheming businessman, the egotistical tv star. She adds twists and turns galore-if you enjoy Agatha Christie (the mother of red herrings), you’ll appreciate this.
Bateman also gives us an Agatha Christie-worthy English town she calls “..a provincial pocket of middle England.” and “..one of England’s bastions of old-fashioned gentility.” There are lovely, detailed descriptions of a real town. You can look it up online and see photos of the exact streets and parks she describes. A map in the book would have been nice. Although the occasional description might be a bit much (“…slammed it against the wall with a peevish lack of nominative determinism.”), overall the prose is just right for its genre.
E.C. Bateman is not just a novelist. She’s also an antique jewelry specialist married to an auctioneer, so you can rest assured the book is well researched. If you enjoy M.C. Beaton, Richard Osman, or Agatha Christie, I’m betting you’ll like E.C. Bateman. I like all of them, and now I like her as well so it’s 4 stars from me🌵📚💁🏼♀️ Thank you to NetGalley and EC Bateman for the early copy.
July 2, 2023
Reposted from CB Book Reviews on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/p/CpxpmgeNg...
I came across this in a Stamford bookshop celebrating a local author and a story based in the local area. Having lived in that area all my life up to that point, it seemed fitting to grab it as I relocated, a little bit of home travelling with me.
The first thing to say is that I really enjoyed this book; and that may be in part due to the fact that I recognise and envisage the areas around the town that are being mentioned. But, it also has a lot to do with how it is written. Whilst this is a murder-solving story, I feel that there are sprinklings of intrigue in other areas throughout which keep the interest, even if at first it feels like the investigation isn’t moving. The main bulk of the action and answers to the mystery are heavily stacked towards the end, but where other books and tv series can leave you frustrated by not tying up all of the answers, I feel this book does.
I wouldn’t rate this book as highly as the Thursday Murder Club series, but make no mistake it’s a good book that I really enjoyed; and as the title “The Stamford Mysteries” I would hope and eagerly await for more to come from EC Bateman
I came across this in a Stamford bookshop celebrating a local author and a story based in the local area. Having lived in that area all my life up to that point, it seemed fitting to grab it as I relocated, a little bit of home travelling with me.
The first thing to say is that I really enjoyed this book; and that may be in part due to the fact that I recognise and envisage the areas around the town that are being mentioned. But, it also has a lot to do with how it is written. Whilst this is a murder-solving story, I feel that there are sprinklings of intrigue in other areas throughout which keep the interest, even if at first it feels like the investigation isn’t moving. The main bulk of the action and answers to the mystery are heavily stacked towards the end, but where other books and tv series can leave you frustrated by not tying up all of the answers, I feel this book does.
I wouldn’t rate this book as highly as the Thursday Murder Club series, but make no mistake it’s a good book that I really enjoyed; and as the title “The Stamford Mysteries” I would hope and eagerly await for more to come from EC Bateman
April 15, 2023
Felicia and her son have been called back to her childhood home to stand in for her father at the family auctioneers.
This was one of the better cozy crime books I’ve read so far this month. The characters are likeable - despite their names! And the setting of the auction house isn’t overplayed to the point of alienating those not familiar with the setting. The plot and murder(s) are well thought through. With a murder in the first part of the book the interest and pace is set for this book and beyond as it is set up well for further instalments. Lost a point as I guessed the murderer but otherwise a more educated read than a lot with the author clearly respecting the reader’s intelligence. Look forward to more in the series.
This was one of the better cozy crime books I’ve read so far this month. The characters are likeable - despite their names! And the setting of the auction house isn’t overplayed to the point of alienating those not familiar with the setting. The plot and murder(s) are well thought through. With a murder in the first part of the book the interest and pace is set for this book and beyond as it is set up well for further instalments. Lost a point as I guessed the murderer but otherwise a more educated read than a lot with the author clearly respecting the reader’s intelligence. Look forward to more in the series.
June 11, 2023
I found this book to be a 3.5 rounded up. First to note is that there are some editing issues here. Couple of missing capitals, some incorrect use of speech marks, which is noticeable. Nothing horrific, it's all very well written, but thought it worth mentioning.
I really enjoy Bateman's style of writing however. There were parts that made me chuckle and some very familiar feelings and sentiments. I really enjoy how they write conversations as well.
The story was pretty good as well, though my main gripe (and why it's not a solid 4) is how long the end dragged on. I want to avoid spoilers here, so all I'll say is that I got a little tired in the last 30-40 pages or so.
All that said, I really hope this is a series that continues! It really is fun and I hope we get more.
I really enjoy Bateman's style of writing however. There were parts that made me chuckle and some very familiar feelings and sentiments. I really enjoy how they write conversations as well.
The story was pretty good as well, though my main gripe (and why it's not a solid 4) is how long the end dragged on. I want to avoid spoilers here, so all I'll say is that I got a little tired in the last 30-40 pages or so.
All that said, I really hope this is a series that continues! It really is fun and I hope we get more.
November 12, 2022
Felicia is woken up one morning by her best friend Cassie. Felicia’s father has had a bad fall and it’s up to her to handle the next auction. She does so brilliantly until her ex shows up, opens the door of a wardrobe about to be sold and a dead man comes out.
I loved the setting of this so very much, Stamford is beautiful and home to the gorgeous Burghley House and it was easy to picture the town here. I’m not sure I liked the main cast of characters, very sharp and harsh, they reminded me of Agatha Raisin (not in a good way) but the writing is very solid and the setting of an auction house perfect for a mystery series.
I loved the setting of this so very much, Stamford is beautiful and home to the gorgeous Burghley House and it was easy to picture the town here. I’m not sure I liked the main cast of characters, very sharp and harsh, they reminded me of Agatha Raisin (not in a good way) but the writing is very solid and the setting of an auction house perfect for a mystery series.
April 28, 2024
This book has one of the best openings of just about any cozy mystery I've read. The plot twists kept coming right to the end. A very satisfying story, and the audiobook was well done. I'm looking forward to more in this series.
June 3, 2023
Death at the Auction is a fun and intriguing mystery that is a very pleasant read and wholly satisfying. A great book to pass an afternoon contently.
April 7, 2025
Easy and quick read. I'm glad the ending was much more evolved than what I thought it would do. Not exactly a satisfying resolution, but I'll take it
January 29, 2025
This author obviously loves Stamford very much. The book is less murder mystery more tourists’ guide.
Lost interest several times whilst reading but wanted to know what happened.
Was not worth it I’m afraid
Lost interest several times whilst reading but wanted to know what happened.
Was not worth it I’m afraid
November 7, 2022
When her auctioneer father falls and breaks his leg, Felicia Grant is forced to step up to the lectern at their biggest Saturday sale. But as her gavel falls on the final lot, and the body of her father’s rival reveals he’s met his final end, Felicia is swept into a mystery that has every citizen of Stamford as a potential suspect—including her!
I enjoyed this mystery, characters and settings. Overall I will be coming back for another adventure.
#DeathattheAuction#Netgalley
I enjoyed this mystery, characters and settings. Overall I will be coming back for another adventure.
#DeathattheAuction#Netgalley
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February 11, 2024A solid cozy crime story in the requisite quaint English setting. I enjoyed listening to this one and look forward to more in the series.
July 7, 2024
Very enjoyable and fun read, especially if you know Stamford
November 4, 2022
I loved this book! Death at the Auction is the first in a new series by E.C. Bateman that takes place in Stamford, England. The author did a great job creating a vast and entertaining group of characters who revolve around the auction house. I loved the mystery and all the twists and turns the story took. Lots of red herrings, but in the end, Felicia was able to solve the mystery! Highly recommend for fans of Hannah Dennison and M.C. Beaton! Looking forward to the next installment!
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