leandrathetbrzero's Reviews (412)

While I preferred the mystery plot and solution in The Maid, I continued to love my time with Molly and her story. The Mystery Guest is unique from book 1, in that (1) it is a bibliomystery (murder of an author), and (2) the flashbacks include Molly as a child.

I read this in anticipation of the 2024 Goodreads Choice Awards, because I think it has chance of being on there. For now, of the possible nominees I have read, this one would get my vote.

Actual Rating: 4.5

I was both excited and nervous about Hallett's total reliance on mixed media to tell a story. I love when a book can incorporate purposeful mixed media, and I had been meaning to try Janice Hallett for quite some time! I just wasn't sure if she would be able to pull it off with this premise.

Once I was acquainted with each character - the six students; the instructor; and those reading through the transcripts of text messages, digital diaries and emails - I was gripped by the mystery at hand. Not only are we trying to figure out if a murder has even occurred, the whodunnit takes the backseat to a more pressing question: 'Done to whom?' There are a handful of twists in this mystery thriller, and one that had me absolutely reeling!

Is the ending completely bonkers? Yeah, I thought so. But by that point, I was along for the ride! 

This was such a fun, fast-paced read that *grew* on me as the story progressed. I was really impressed by the ending, and it showed that Ada is not one to underestimate.

Note: Yes, there is a romance plot between Ada and Rian, but there is no spice, and the novella series seems to focus on there characters' relationship throughout. So keep in mind that the HEA doesn't happen here.

Thank you, Kensington, for a free ARC copy of this book in exchange for this honest review.

This book was the chosen read for Only Murders in the Book Club this month, and I was admittedly a bit nervous about entering this cozy mystery. I am a mystery lover who has a love-hate relationship with the Cozy subgenre. There are some modern cozy series that I continue to enjoy, but the very narrow, strict rules and structure within this subgenre tend to grate on me. With that said, this first book in a new cozy series caught my eye because the strong hobby/theme infused throughout was all things Halloween and autumnal. The Lazy Bones Bookshop is located in  the year-round Halloween-themed town of Elyan Hollow, Oregon. That's a setting description that I can get behind!

I had a great time reading this book, to be honest. I immersion-read it, meaning I listened to the audiobook while reading along with my physical ARC copy. It's important to note that there was a 50/50 split among the audiobook listeners I spoke to regarding the quality. Some found the choice of narrator to be flat and grating in her delivery, so keep that in mind if you tend to me more sensitive about that format!

Back to the book's content: (1) I loved the Halloween puns, the way the entire town leaned into the theme. (2) I really liked Bailey Briggs, our amateur sleuth, and it was so fun hearing her reference New Release Tuesday and other literary/bookshop-focused knowledge. (3) There is a lot of positive, supportive community feels. 

Would I continue the series? Yes!