Roberta Reads

  Review - 5 Stars: The Lady Eleanor Swift mysteries are a favourite series, and we’re already on book 12. I have loved every single one, including Murder in an Irish Castle. This time, Eleanor and Clifford have travelled to Ireland, where they’ve been invited to spend Christmas at the estate she inherited there from her uncle. When they arrive, they discover that all is not as it should be at the estate, and in the village. They obviously then investigate! This book felt more sinister than any of the previous stories. I think perhaps because Eleanor was cut off from all her usual resources (except for Clifford), and there seemed to be some sort of conspiracy going on. However, there was still plenty of banter between the two, and other funny moments. It was interesting to see them manage both the mystery, and the day to day chores etc, without the usual backup. Luckily they are both very intrepid and resourceful, after all their adventures (both in the book series and before). The...

A Snowfall by the Sea by Isla Gordon My rating: 4 of 5 stars I’ve been enjoying Isla Gordon’s books for many years now (under her various pen names). This one is no exception. The story follows Cleo, who has got a bit stuck in her life, and wants to start speaking up for herself more. I think Isla Gordon does an excellent job of showing us how trapped Cleo has become by her own inertia and wanting to please the people she loves, and really making the reader feel that frustration build. I really enjoyed seeing Cleo start to break that shell and figure out what she wants from life. Of course, as well as the personal development, there’s a lovely romance too. I loved seeing all the almost moments through the years that Cleo and Eliot have known each other. I love romances that don’t just start over a few days! I enjoyed the relationship between Cleo and Gabriela, how they support each other. I loved the chaotic Christmas caused by the snow, with new peo...

A Killer Christmas at Honeychurch Hall by Hannah Dennison My rating: 3 of 5 stars It’s always fun to return to Honeychurch Hall and its surroundings for another mystery. This time around, a rare Emerald Barbie is stolen, and then dead bodies start appearing. This book was another fun and easy read from Hannah Dennison. I enjoyed following Kat as she tried to find out what on earth is going on, yet again! However, I’m beginning to find Kat’s relationship troubles rather tiresome. It’s about time she had some happiness in (or out of) a relationship. I also enjoyed Edith’s shenanigans, though I do feel concerned about her health. The plot was a good one, and I didn’t work out who the culprit was until almost the big reveal (mostly because there were so many shady characters!). It’s always enjoyable when I don’t have it figured out early in the book. Overall, this was a fun murder mystery, full of shady characters. A good way to while away a few hours. I...

Christmas at Applemore by Rachael Lucas My rating: 5 of 5 stars I’ve been a big fan of Rachael Lucas’ books ever since I read The Telephone Box Library, so I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Christmas at Applemore. I was not disappointed! It was so lovely to return to Applemore, and see how all my friends there are getting on. This book focuses on Polly, who runs the shop. All her siblings are paired off, and she’s feeling a little bit lonely. This story is set in the run up to Christmas, and the festive atmosphere is there right from page one. The story felt warm and cosy, like a big hug. I loved reading this book, I got so absorbed in the story that I didn’t realise I was near the end until I reached it. The plot was fun, and lovely. I loved the sense of community, and the wintery atmosphere. Overall, this was such a lovely story. It was full of festive feeling, and warm, happy endings. I highly recommend it to curl up somewhere warm with on a cold day. I...

Murder in the Wings by Kate P. Adams My rating: 5 of 5 stars I have been a fan of Kate P Adams’ writing since the very first Charleton House mystery. I loved Murder En Suite (the first book in the Joyce & Ginger series), so naturally I read Murder in the Wings as soon as I received it. I enjoyed this book so much. I wasn’t feeling well when I picked it up, and it was a wonderful distraction. I loved reuniting with Joyce and Ginger. They’re such a great pair of characters. Joyce is quite out there sometimes, but she’s got a great heart. Ginger is quieter, but just as strong minded as Joyce. I love reading their banter, watching them interact is so much fun, and they’re also becoming really good friends. I love their determination to have fun AND find out the truth. I also loved the mystery, which involves the past as well as the present. As always, it’s very well written, and I didn’t guess who the culprit was until very near the end. If you’re lo...