Tuesday, December 24, 2024

Madrigals and Mayhem - A Review

 Review

MADRIGALS AND MAYHEM by Elizabeth Penney
The Fourth Cambridge Bookshop Mystery

Molly Kimball is happily settling into life in Cambridge. A close set of friends, including a wonderful boyfriend, makes everything better and she's eagerly awaiting her first Christmas in England. As she, her aunt, and mother begin to deck out Marlowe - Manuscripts and Folios for the holidays the trio are delighted to see life in the toy shop across the way. Charlotte Pemberly is preparing to reopen the shop she inherited from her grandfather. Unfortunately, a very expensive doll is missing and Charlotte thinks her grandfather's new family is trying to steal it away from her. Add a break in and a poisoning and Molly is certain that Charlotte needs help. But is she truly an innocent victim? With a clear head and good friends by her side Molly will do what she can to uncover the truth and have a very happy Christmas!

I love the holiday season and really enjoy books set at this magical time. Adding a bookshop, a toy store, and a great group of friends increases that pleasure and setting it in England makes it even better. The characters in the Cambridge Bookshop series are a delight. They are people who really enjoy each other's company. They support and love each other bringing warmth even on a cold winter night. I like that Molly is eager to make a new friend, but doesn't blindly jump in, especially when murder is involved.

The mystery is as enjoyable as the characters, with various crimes and a treasure hunt. I loved how everything eventually came together with an amazing reveal!

New friends, frightful family, and the joys of Christmas along with a sprinkling of romance make MADRIGALS AND MAYHEM a delightful read at any time of year.

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