The Crow Trap by Anne Cleeves

This is the first book in the Vera Stanhope series. I was not aware of this series or the author before reading this book. I've since learned that it was made into a t.v. series and it's part of a bigger series.

I picked this book up on my Kobo with a coupon, I believe. It was one of the oh so many recommendations that Kobo loves to give, and seeing as it's a British mystery (spoiler alert: I love British mysteries) I picked it up for next to nothing.

This book took me quite a long time to read. I tend to read e-books at work on my lunch break and occasionally late at night when I can't sleep. Because of this, I was reading this book for quite a long time.

Parts of it felt a little long winded and a little too detailed about things I didn't feel were important to the main story. It did pick up at the end though and I enjoyed the twists and turns the story took to solve the mystery.

I was a little surprised to learn that this was the first one in the series, because that is when you first meet the detective that will become the centre point of the series and I felt like I didn't get enough of her to connect with, that she wasn't the centre of it for me, that she didn't thrill me enough to make me run to the library for the second book.

This book follows three women who come together to do an environmental survey on some land. For one of the woman, the owner of a cottage on this land is a friend, and upon arrival, she finds her friend dead. There are secrets, lies, and many things that are not as they seem.

It's definitely a complex book, and even though it wasn't my absolute favourite, I do think I might pick another book up in this series at the library if I come across one. I will say that a lot of my feelings about this book might have to do with how I read it in little fits and starts here and there over a long period of time.

Recommendation: Check this out for yourself for sure, especially if you've got a hankering for British mysteries like I do.

Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

I might live under a bit of a rock. When it comes to having read the popular books before they end up being made into t.v. shows and movies, I am way behind. I am never on top of these things till way after everyone else has read and watched them.

Case in point: Big Little Lies. A big chunk of the reason I only just got to watching the show was because I was confusing it with the name of some other show I really didn't want to see. It wasn't until I realized that Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman were in it that I had any interest.

While I was on vacation in North Carolina, I picked up this book on sale in a Barnes and Noble (which was totally cool to finally go to one of those book stores!!) and I figured I would give it a try.

Well, let me just tell you I read the whole thing in one sitting. Took me around 3 hours. Then I went right to my t.v. and binged the entire first season, all in one day.

The book is good. It's weirdly interesting. It's just a story about some people and what's going on in their lives. It's a bit of a mystery, it's a bit of a drama, it's a bit of suspense. Pure, honest, and real drama on the page.

Like if you break the book down in it's barest parts its just a few weeks in the lives of a group of women. So basic, yet so rich and colorful and riveting.

I was stuck to the page. I needed to know what was going to happen next. I needed to know who got murdered, and what that was going to mean. It was not really like a lot of other books that I've read before and I am really glad I snapped it up when I did.

The t.v. show, however, was a little lacking for me. Obviously, that's because we all know the book is better. How could it not be? Some of the choices with adding in extra storylines and then how the ending was executed left me a little sad, but overall, I think it was done well. I'm guessing some of the additions and such were done because they wanted to feed the flames for a second season. Which I know I'm going to watch because I'm in it now. There's no going back.

Recommendation: For fans of this author, for fans of murderous stories about average people, for the lovers of drama. This is for you. Sidenote: If you've watched the show and didn't love it, read the book. The book is always better!

Dead Man's Chest by Kerry Greenwood

Another Phryne Fisher book for you're reading pleasure. I mean, you have to like these books (or at least reading about them) if you're reading yet another one of my reviews about this series.

This one was a whole lot less mystery than many of the other ones. Don't get me wrong, I loved this book just as much as I love the busy and intense mystery filled ones. There wasn't really any steamy love bits in this one either. It was more about the day to day with a bit of a mystery thrown in.

Miss Fisher, her family, and her entourage are interesting and exciting all without the murders they work so hard to solve. I would read stories about them any day. How cool would they have been if they weren't just fictional characters. Putting my book lover problems aside, let's talk about this book:

This one is the 18th in the series. Miss Fisher takes her family off for a holiday, expecting a relaxing time with the sun and sand. Instead, they arrive to an empty house that should have had a butler and his wife prepared to welcome them on behalf of the owner of the home who arranged for Phryne to stay, and hints at buried treasure  by the sea that seems to have everyones attention. I won't say more, but it was interesting.

This one was a little light on the mystery, it kind of let things just move along at their own pace without a whole lot of intense investigation which I didn't mind. Doesn't mean I knew how things were going to turn out before they happened, I was still happily surprised.

I am now, and forever will be, a reader of this lovely series of books! Still waiting for the next series to appear on Netflix though. I love the show just as much!

Recommendation: If you still haven't read any of these but you are reading this review, just go to your nearest library and pick one of these babies up! You can't go wrong!

Midnight Crossroad by Charlaine Harris

I'm sure you've heard of the new show Midnight, Texas that has recently come out, and you might even know that it was based on a series by the lovely Charlaine Harris. (You'll know her as the author behind the books that are the basis of the t.v. show True Blood.) As a fan of her writing and a fan of this genre and type of book/show in general, I wanted to read the books and watch the show so I grabbed this up as part of a deal at Chapters.

This book is about a little tiny town in Texas called Midnight and the strange and secretive people who call it home. If you've seen the commercials for the show then you might know that theres hints of characters like vampires and psychics. With the arrival of a new person to town, things start to evolve that bring some secrets to light about some of the inhabitants of this little town, both good and bad.

The book was good. I enjoyed it. It kept me glued to the page and I really wanted to know how things all turned out by the end. This book didn't take me very long to read, and I didn't really want to put it down.

I liked how the story came from multiple points of view, giving a look into the lives of people living in Midnight and gave more depth to the story. Everyone has their own mysteries that they keep to themselves so although it was a mystery surrounding one character, each character was like their own little puzzle. I'm still confused and curious about a couple characters and I hope that by reading the other two books things might become clear.

Since watching an episode of the show, some of my suspicions have been confirmed and others are still mysteries for me. Reading more of the books and watching more of the show does need to happen.

I do have a bit of complaints about the show, but I will admit to only seeing one episode and not having read any more of the books yet so I really shouldn't be voicing my opinion. I just felt that even in the first 20 minutes that things were so different than the book was and that does tend to drive me a little nuts. I had no problem with the choice of actors or anything that, my problem was the actual changes being made in the story itself. It felt like the changes were so Hollywood and it was a bit hard for me. I know that the author does have writing credits in relation to the show too and if she's happy with it, then who am I to judge. Nevertheless I am interested and I am going to stick with it for now.

Recommendation: This book was pretty good, and coming from the point of view of someone who didn't know anything about the book or show (my fiancee) the show was pretty good too. I'm a big advocate of reading the book before watching anything related to it, but to each their own. Still, this is for the urban fantasy mystery lovers out there. Give it a chance. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Unnatural Habits by Kerry Greenwood

Well, hello! We are back with yet another Phryne Fisher murder mystery review! This one is the 19th book in the series and it's another book that is the basis for one of the episodes of the wonderful show.

The show is only what, an hour long? It makes sense that the books will have a lot more substance and detail in it than the show did. This was of course the case here.

This one deals with missing girls. They are pretty girls who have found themselves pregnant and in trouble. They were staying at the convent for wayward girls, being forced to work in the laundry which is one of the sources of income this convent uses to "take care" of these girls. Once they leave there and go off to another place to have their babies, they all go missing. The book starts with a female reporter on the hunt for these missing girls. It's not till the reporter goes missing too that Phryne steps in and takes up the hunt for these poor girls.

It's got murder, lots and lots of intrigue, and a whole lot more going on than the episode of the show did. I read this in about 3.5 hours, I almost couldn't put it down. It was a little darker than the show was, but it's got the same type of story to it that the show did. Don't start thinking you should skip this one because you know how it ends from the show, because you would be doing yourself a disservice. The book has so much more to it!

Recommendation: Read it. Just read it. You know you want to.

Flying Too High by Kerry Greenwood

This one is the second book in the Phryne Fisher mysteries and it introduces some of the characters that we have come to know and love from reading and watching the show.

This one focuses on the death of a family man (who it's believed was murdered by his son) and, you guessed it, aeroplanes. The side mystery involves a young girl who goes missing, and when someone is in need to help, Phryne comes to the rescue. 

Mr. and Mrs. Butler are introduced and Phryne takes up residence in her Australian home, at 221B of course, a nod to the famous detective himself. Everything begins to come together for the fabulous female investigator. She has her household under control, Dot is by her side, and a new mystery or two to solve.

Something I loved right from the beginning with these books is that Phryne is always Phryne. She doesn't change much at all. She retains the same principles and acts exactly how you would expect her to in every situation. It's like reading about a good friend.

I had little to complain about when it comes to this novel. I know sometimes I might find myself irritated a little by the romance or the seemingly easy way the mysteries are solved but this one didn't get under my skin. It was lovely and I enjoyed it as usual! 

Recommendation: I love these books. I can see how they aren't for everyone, but you know, I love a strong woman who does what she wants (while solving mysteries with her lovable band of helpers, of course!)

Murder and Mendelssohn by Kerry Greenwood

Stop reading right now if you are totally sick of Miss Fisher's murder mystery reviews. I'd apologize, but honestly, I'm not really sorry I'm reviewing another one! They are just too much fun!

This one was a little different than the usual ones. This one featured an old friend of Phryne's from her time spend in the war. The interesting thing was her friend now has a companion who, as it turns out, is a little like another famous mystery character that most of us know and love! (He resides at 221B Baker street) It might actually bother hard core Sir Conan Doyle fans, but although it was obvious the relationship between her characters was based on those famous men, they were still written different enough to be their own separate entities.

I will say that moments got a little weird, a little overly sexual is the best way to describe it, and although I could have done without a lot of that bit there in the middle, it was a good book.

The mystery might have been a little secondary to the storyline of the two gentlemen, which, depending on what you read these books for, can be a little tiresome. I, for one, love the stories about Phryne and her entourage as much as I like a good old murder mystery. A bit of drama and romance is alright by me (at least when it comes to these books!)

There was a choir, a ghastly murder (or two), some romance, old flames, new flames, spies, the war, and much more in this one. All in all I'd have to say it was a pretty darn good book!

Recommendation: As always, lovers of murder, of old time divas in spectacular clothing, women living life to the fullest for themselves, and a great story will love this book and this series as a whole!

Raisins and Almonds by Kerry Greenwood

Yes, I know. Another Phryne Fisher mystery.

This one was focused on saving a bookshop owner from being hanged for a murder she didn't commit. Phryne has a new lover and there is a lot of romance in this one but, there was also a look into the Jewish community that I found quite interesting. 

This was definitely a mystery that keeps you guessing. I had no idea whodunit by the end and I was a little surprised when it was finally solved, and in such a simple type of way. There was misdirection, stories upon stories, everything was shrouded in mystery but of course, Miss Fisher figured it out. 

You know if you've been reading my blog for any amount of time how much I love these books, and this one is a prime example of why. Some I love more than others, and this was one of them!

Recommendation: If you still don't know the greatness that is Miss Phryne Fisher (or haven't even seen the show on Netflix yet) then this is as good a place to start as any!

Ruddy Gore by Kerry Greenwood

Yes, I know. Another Miss Fisher mystery! I'm sorry but they are just so much fun that I can't help but post about them and honestly, I read quite a few at a time (thank you library!) and if I didn't write about them then I wouldn't have very many reviews!

Now this one was pretty cool. It deals with the theater and everything that comes with it. Actors with egos, on stage deaths, the drama and passion of it all. It might be the usual plot line of a mystery involving the stage but it didn't feel that way which is always a plus.

If you've read any of these books yourself, then you'll find a man showing up time and time again as one of her main lovers. I thought this character was quite interesting, and even more interesting is how they meet which is covered in this lovely book. 

I've often wondered why he's never mentioned in the show but I guess because perhaps there isn't time? Or because giving her other lovers is more fun? She does still have more than one in the books (in this book too I believe!). Then there's the tension with the detective that the show provides that I wouldn't change for a minute! 

As always, this was a great read. If you've been following along with me into my foray into this series you'll know that some of them I just find "good" and other ones I find "great" I think this one tips more to the side of great!

Recommendation: For the lover's of murder, mayhem, a woman being herself and being great at it, this is a book for you!

The Green Mill Murder by Kerry Greenwood

This is one of the books that is covered in the t.v. series although I don't really remember the episode fully, but I do know one of them is like this book.

It's another Phryne Fisher mystery (yes, yes again. I know. I love them thought!) and this one is about a murder that happens right in front of her at a dance competition at the Green Mill club. The story follows two different paths and she ends up investigating two different cases at the same time.

This one wasn't my favorite, but I think part of the problem had to do with the fact that the copy I got from my library in town was one of the copies that is missing the final chapter. I had to go on Good Reads to figure that out because I was a little lost as to why the murderer wasn't revealed in the end. I guess it was a problem back when they were printed and readers who find this out should contact the publisher to get a hold of the last chapter. I haven't done that, but I still may.

I will say that this one leans a little more to the romance side of things which does happen occasionally with this series.  This can be good or bad depending on how you look at it. I don't mind it much in these books, but this one was heavy on that, less heavy on solving the crimes.

Still in love with this series though!

Recommendation: For the lovers of the Phryne Fisher mysteries, for the lovers of the t.v. show, for the lovers of cozy mysteries.

Cocaine Blues by Kerry Greenwood

This is the first book in the Phryne Fisher mysteries by Kerry Greenwood. 

I've talked about another other one of these great books here and if I can keep getting my hands on them I will keep talking about them!

In case you didn't know, there has been a t.v. show based on this lovely series of novels, and let me tell you, the show is just as amazing as the books! Honestly, I feel like reading the book is like watching an episode of the show. Every time I have to put the book down to get on with life, it feels like I just hit pause on the show. 

This one is great. Perfect introduction into the characters too. I know of all the main ones because of the TV show but the introduction of them in the stories was perfect. If you've seen the show then you'll find a couple differences between the introductions to the characters in the book, but honestly, I love them both.

It's just the perfect 1920's style mysteries set in Australia. It's got the clothes, the company, the mystery, and the experience of the 20's that just make this book and this series great. 

Cocaine Blues follows Phryne as she heads to Australia to investigate the daughter of a family friend. She finds herself immersed in the drug world and in the company of strange characters. She meets some new people who will become her close friends in the books to come. 

This is a short read, but well worth every second. Perfect introduction into the world of Miss Fisher. She is a younger, more stylish, and a more diva fantastic version of Miss Marple. 

Recommendation: If you love mysteries, novels about the 20's, and a really good story, then this is for you! This whole series is for you! Also, the show is great. And it's on Netflix!!

Murder on a Midsummer Night by Kerry Greenwood

I cannot explain how excited I was to find this book at the library. Well, that I was able to find any books in this series at the library.

Let me explain: If you enjoy watching murder mystery type t.v. shows on Netflix (or on actual t.v.) you may have come across a show called Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries. The show (and books) follow the activities and cases of a female detective by the name of the Honorable Phryne Fisher living in Australia in the late 1920's.

She may be an aristocrat but that doesn't mean she doesn't have a heart of gold. She's got style, panache, and killer smarts. She dresses like a diva but has been known to wear pants, and even carry a little gun when needed. She's progressive for her time, seeing no need in getting married, and she has a lover or two on the side.

There's a whole side cast of characters that help her out in all her cases, mostly people she's rescued in some way or another. There's Dot her companion, Bert and Cec who do odd jobs and run a taxi, and Detective Jack Robinson who is always there for her when she needs him.

As a lover of the t.v. show I was absolutely delighted to find out that reading one of the books feels exactly like I was watching a show. Every time I had to put the book down, it felt like I was pushing pause on an episode of the show. Can I just say I am totally in love!?

This book was actually book #17 in the series. This book finds Phryne investigating both an apparent suicide of a man on the beach and a missing child. There's lost treasure, strange people, a seance, and a heatwave kicking up its heels. Somehow she manages it all with the flair that I've come to love from the show.

I'm not going to lie, I will be writing about each and every one of these books that I can get my hands on at the library, or in general! They are just fabulous!

Recommendation: If you love murder mysteries with a 1920's Australian/English vibe following a fantastic aristocrat, then do not walk, run to your local library and grab these. You will not be disappointed. Also: watch the show on Netflix. Please. Just do it. You will love it!!

Devil Bones and Cross Bones by Kathy Reichs

I've been a big fan of the t.v. show Bones since it came out but until recently, I hadn't read any of the books that the show was based on. If you didn't already know the show (and the books) feature Temperance Brennan who is a forensic anthropologist. The similarities between the show and the books pretty much stop there. The books feature different characters, the main character has different personality traits, and where and for who Temperance works is different. The books follow the actual career of Kathy Reichs more closely than the show does, which isn't really a negative for me. I'm happy they aren't exactly like the books. I do wish though, that the two could have been a little more the same.


I picked both of these books up used at the same time but Devil Bones was the first one I read. I found it interesting. The story line featured some voodoo/magic type stuff which is always interesting in my book.

The down side I found was it was a lot like other thrillers of this type. It followed the same type of plot twists, the same type of ending, just overall the same feel as others I've read like this. It was an easy read and enjoyable at the time, but it just didn't stand out to me.

I didn't exactly solve the mystery before it was revealed but I did feel like it was something I've read before. I think perhaps I was expecting more from the book because I love the show so much.

I did my best to go into reading Cross Bones with an open mind. After all, I didn't know enough about this author's writing to make an overall assumption on her work. This one was  different for sure. This story focuses on Israel and the skeletons of what could have been Jesus and his family.

Kathy spend a year researching this book, even going to Israel herself. All the information relating to the bones and their details was actual fact, which I thought was pretty cool. I did find it a little heavy handed at times with the repetition of the facts as she did include a little fact sheet at the front of the book besides telling us more than once each little bit of information.

What kind of bugged me was that it felt like the mystery of the present day dead man killed in his warehouse fell way down by the wayside with the trip to Israel and the talk of the very old bones and who they could have belonged to. The murdered man's mystery was solved by the end but the mystery of the old bones has never been solved in reality so it wasn't solved in the book and it left me feeling like it was an incomplete story. It just wasn't really a favourite. I don't think I'll be collecting the series and adding them to my library.

Recommendation: Not bad reads. Entertaining for what they are but just don't expect them to be super similar to the show. Good if you like medical mystery/thrillers.