A Crime at Christmas: Miss Hart and Miss Hunt Investigate: A Christmas Novella by Celina Grace
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1936. Kitchen maid Joan Hart and lady's maid Verity Hunter become embroiled in the mystery of the missing diamond necklace. Property of their depressed mistress Lady Dorothy. Can they solve the mystery, and also bring happiness to their mistress.
A delightful and well-written cozy mystery with its likeable and varied personalities. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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Murder in Abbot's Folly by Amy Myers
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

2011. Georgia and Peter Marsh are looking into the death of Robert Luckhurst, shot in 1985 by Max Tanner, landlord of the local pub. But now with the current deaths is there a link.
An enjoyable modern mystery

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The Next To Die by Gerald Verner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Stoneford, Devon. Due to a storm playwright Trevor Lowe is staying overnight in Devon and then is able to assist the police in the murder of Elmer Jensen, owner of the Ridgeway Manor. But this will not be the last death. Can Lowe solve the mystery
Overall an enjoyable mystery though it was not difficult to work out who was the guilty party.
Originally published in 1934

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Make Mine Murder by Robert Sidney Bowen
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

New York 1945. New private detective has two clients, one his girlfriend has found a body in her bed, and Mr White wants him to find A.P. Jordan.
Enjoyable mystery though I didn't really find any of the characters likeable.
Originally published 1947

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Mrs Pargeter’s Plot by Simon Brett
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Concrete Jacket is Mrs Pargeter's builder for her new house when a body is discovered in what will be the wine cellar. When he is arrested she is determined to prove him innocent.
An entertaining read.

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The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Sixty years have passed since Bilbo Baggins returned to the Shire, now at his 111 birthday party he disappears leaving all of his possessions to his nephew Frodo including the ring. Twenty years later it is now the time for Frodo's adventure.
A delightful and well-written story. Another re-read.

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Ishmael by Barbara Hambly
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Enterprise is visiting Starbase 12 when due to the Klingons Spock is sent back in time to 1867 Seattle. Can be thwart the Klingons mission in this time whatever that is and can he return to his own time.
An entertaining re-read.

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Actions & Consequences - A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lorena DiChiara


In this Pride and Prejudice variation Lady Victoria arranged a compromise of Darcy and they are unhappily married. When Bennet dies the family moves to Lambton. Then we have the pairing of Mary and a Curate. So I lost interest and gave up.

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Breathless by Nicola Claire
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1892. Dr Anna Cassidy searches London for her missing cousin Mina Cassidy. But who is behind the death of prostitutes by poisoning in Lambeth, and the missing orphans. As Inspector Kelly searches for his wife.
An entertaining historical mystery and romance

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Netherfield's Duchess: Book 1 by Victoria Lynn


A Pride and Prejudice variation that when it became obvious that it was going to be a Colonel Fitzwilliam and Jane Bennet pairing, i just lost interest, once again with such a pairing.

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By Treason We Perish by A.J. MacKenzie
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1338 Kings messenger Simon Merrivale returns to England after his latest mission in disgrace. After being dismissed by the King, Queen Isabella employs him to investigate the saffron plot which leads to the revealing of more corruption in the court.
An entertaining well-written historical mystery with its varied characters. A good start to this series.

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Pemberley Park - The Twelve Days of Christmas: Where Pride and Prejudice and Mansfield Park Meet, and Continue by Georgina Young-Ellis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice sequel, Elizabeth and Darcy decide to invite family and friends for the twelve days of Christmas. Problems occur when unexpected guests appear, and of course there is always Mrs Bennet to make a fuss. But how close is Mary Fitzwilliam to giving birth.
An entertaining story. Another re-read. Again.

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Irresistibly Alone by Julie Cooper
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice variation Bennet announces to Elizabeth that he has arranged her marriage to his friend old Mr Goulding because of a debt of honour. How does this change the relationship between Elizabeth and Darcy.
Due to reviews I had hoped for more a lot more of Mary in the story. Alas it really was just another D&E story.

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Dreams of the Raven by Carmen Carter
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stardate 5302.1. The Enterprise responds to a report of a Klingon attack in Frenni space. But all it not as it seems. Who are the Ravens, why has Doctor McCoy lost his memory.
Another entertaining re-read.

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Tears & Forgiveness: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lorena DiChiara


In this Pride and Prejudice variation, after her visit to Pemberley Elizabeth is engaged, but when Lydia elopes and is not discovered Darcy ends the engagement. Later Mary marrys the Netherfield steward. Then I gave up.

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Lost: A Hunters Series Thriller by Glenn Trust
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Bunts County, overnight 32 migrant workees are murdered and hundreds kidnapped. Why and who by. Soon the OSI agents, known as The Hunters become involved.
An interesting modern crime story.

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Imprudence & Inconstancy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Lorena DiChiara


In this Pride and Prejudice Mary becomes betrothed to Collins. That is when I gave up. An unacceptable pairing.

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Murder at Everham Hall by Benedict Brown
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1927. Mystery writer Marius Quin is invited to a New Year's Eve party by childhood friend Lady Isabella Montague at Everham Hall, hosted by owner actor Cecil Sinclair. But when the host is shot dead, Marius and Isabella decide to investigate as the guests (suspects) are snowed in.
An entertaining and well-written cozy historical mystery with its cast of diverse personalities, and likeable main character. A good start to this new series.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Governing His Heart by Melanie Schertz
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

In this Pride & Prejudice Variation Bennet has died and now Elizabeth is being interviewed by Gerald Darcy for the position of governess to Georgiana Darcy., and is judged to be perfect for the role! Meanwhile Fitzwilliam Darcy is on his Grand Tour. Soon the elder Darcy is dead and Wickham and Caroline do their best to cause havoc.
Would have loved to have more about the Colonel and Mary Bennet in the story.
An enjoyable re-read, again

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The Kindness of Witches by Leonard Tourney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1574. Dr William Gilbert is caught in a severe snowstorm only to be saved by the Harkness family. Later he learns that the females have been accused of being witches. Gilbert seems determined to find the truth, and why they have been accused.
An entertaining and well-written historical mystery with its cast of likeable and varied characters.

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Inspector Proby Goes Back by John Gano
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After the death of his wife DCI James Proby is invited to visit Goonby Castle by owner Mary Prideaux for a discussion. But on her death new owner informs him that she was murdered. He is sent to investigate back at his childhood home.
An enjoyable modern mystery

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Jane and the Final Mystery by Stephanie Barron
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1817 March, and Jane Austn's health is failing but can she help her widowed friend Mrs Elizabeth Heathcote. Her son William is convinced he will be accused in the death of fellow pupil of Winchester College, Arthur Prendergast. Jane accompanied by a nephew, Edward Austen travel to Winchester to help.
An entertaining and well-written cozy historical mystery with its varied and likeable characters. Another good addition to this series which unfortunately will be the last.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Mr. Darcy's Miracle at Longbourn: A Pride and Prejudice Holiday Tale by Rose Fairbanks
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice variation Darcy and the Bingleys left Netherfield over a month ago. Now it is December 23rd, again and again. What needs to be righted, who is aware, do people have to change and will there be any happy endings.
Enjoyed this tale especially as I am a Groundhog Day fan.
Would have liked more of Mary and the diary in Part One, especially with her interactions with the Colonel, and see the scenes from more of her perspective but that's because I am a Mary Bennet fan.
Another enjoyable re-read of this story, again and again, and again

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The Chocolate Kiss-Off by Heather Haven
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Employee Howie Goldberg is arrested when the owner of Carlotta's Chocolate is found dead in a vat of chocolate. Knowing that he is innocent Persephone Cole, p.i. investigates.
An enjoyable historical mystery.

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The Hobbit by J.R.R. Tolkien
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Bilbo Baggins, a hobbit with thirteen dwarfs set off on a mission or is it an adventure, with the help of the wizard Gandalf. Along the way they met Gollum, elves and goblins
A delightful and well-written fantasy story.Another re-read (again).

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Murders at the Manor by Milo James Fowler
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

Soap inspector Willem Broekstein is invited by old friend Charles Sullivan to his newly inherited estate. Because his life has been threatened. The first death will not be the last. Can Broekstein dust Iver the killer which is not too difficult.

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Such Happy Manners: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Clarissa Joy Thomas


In this Pride and Prejudice variation Mary Bennet is accidentally compromised by her uncle's clerk (who happens to be a good Wickham). That's when I gave up.

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Just to Hear 'I Love You': An Alternate Tale of Jane Austen's 'Pride & Prejudice' by Sarah Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A re-read of this Pride and Prejudice variation whereby Elizabeth and Mary as the only two survivors of the Bennet family are taken in by their Gardiner relations. In an earlier tragedy Mary has been left deaf.
On a holiday with the Gardiners at Ramsgate they met Miss Darcy, but Wickham is also there. Can she be saved and how will the meeting of Darcy and Elizabeth fare. Soon they are introduced to the Fitzwilliam family. Will both Bennet ladies have their happy ending.And what of Bingley.
This is more the story of Mary and Colonel Fitzwilliam, which is why it is a favourite of mine.
An enjoyable and well-written variation with its delightful characters.
Another re-read, again and again.

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The Pink Daffodil: Variations on a Jane Austen Christmas by Elizabeth Rasche
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this Pride and Prejudice variation the Bingley party due to a broken carriage are still at Netherfield. As Christmas approaches it gives Mary Bennet the chance, in her pride and arrogance, to show off her Christian charity. But she becomes distracted by a Mr Arthur, friend of Darcy and Bingley.
But can she soften her character enough, not to betray her real self, but still be able to improve and show some of her hidden character.
A delightful and entertaining well-written variation. Another re-read.

(Though I do wish authors would get it right - Mary Bennet does not wear glasses in P&P so why portray her doing so in a story.)

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Shadow Lord by Laurence Yep
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stardate 1831.5. Prince Vikram, ninth son of the absolute ruler of Angira is returning to the planet, hopefully to help bring the planet into the Federation. Accompanied by Spock and Sulu. But soon there is an overthrow of the King and a bloodbath ensues. Can all survive and bring peace to the people.
Another enjoyable re-read.

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Mrs Pargeter’s Pound of Flesh by Simon Brett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Mrs Pargeter agrees to accompany friend Kim Thurrock to the Brotherton Hall health spa even though she dislikes the idea of dieting. But not all is as it seems as she discovers there has been a death. And not the last.
An enjoyable mystery
Originally published in 1992

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Miss Bingley and the Baron: A Companion to Not In Want of a Wife by Amanda Kai
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice sequel where the Hursts and Caroline Bingley are visiting the Hurst estate of Fairclough. Adjoining this is Bron Connally's estate of Raven's Cliff. On a morning walk Caroline mistakes the Baron for a gardener and he continue the subterfuge with the actual gardener. But who and where is the real Caroline Bingley. Can she become herself in time to find happiness.
An entertaining and well-written story with its cast of varied and likeable characters.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via StoryOrigin and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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Iced Diamonds by Heather Haven
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

December 1942. When a dead elf is found in the shop window of a jewellers, owner William Waller employs Persephone Cole to find his daughter. The chief suspect, and find the killer.
An entertaining historical mystery.

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Murder for Miss Emily by J.F. Straker
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Miss Emily Mytton arrives home after spending the night away only to find a body in her bed, that of much hated John Cluster, stabbed in the back. Considering her position in the village she feels she is in the best situation to investigate the murder than the police. But is she correct. DI Pitt investigates.
An entertaining modern mystery
Originally published in 1961

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A Swan In Hiding by Skydancinghobbit
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Pride and Prejudice variation. This is the story of Mary Bennet discovering what it is to be loved. While visiting the Collinses with Elizabeth she is taken under the wing of Lady Catherine, and becomes friends with her daughter Anne. Whereby she finds love.
An entertaining story.
This fanfiction story does need a lot of editing, but as it is an unpublished work I have taken that into consideration when giving a rating, as I did really enjoy the story, again and again. and once again.
I just wish there were more stories with this pairing

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A Long Time Dead by J.M. Dalgliesh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Glaswegian policeman D.I. Duncan McAdam is just back from two months suspension and is sent back home to the Isle of Skye. Missing since 1999 the body of teenager Isla Matheson has been discovered in the Waternish peninsula and the investigation re-opened. McAdam and his local team investigate lead by DS Alistair MacEachran.
An well-written and entertaining modern mystery with its cast of likeable and varied characters. A good start to this new series.
I received a free copy of this book from the author via BooksFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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DEATH OF A SECRETARY a British crime mystery full of twists by Malcolm Forsythe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Secretary Trudy Thornton has been murdered, but why. Was her pregnancy a motive, but who was she having an affair with. detectives millson and Scobie investigate.
An enjoyable modern mystery.
Originally published in 1996

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A Scandalous Deception by Lynn Messina
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Beatrice Hyde-Clare was visiting the London Daily Gazette when Earl of Fazeley falls down dead with a knife in his back in front of her. She and the Duke of Kesgrave investigate.
Overall an enjoyable historical mystery

(Sidewalks don't exist in Regency England, but pavements do)

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The Last Battle by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's the last days for Narnia as Shift proclaims a false Aslan withe aid of the Calormen. Can King Tirian save his people with the help of Jill Pole and Eustace Scrubb.
Another enjoyable re-read.
A book of its time.

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Uhura's song by Janet Kagan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Stardate 2950.3. The planet Eeiauo is under quarantine because of the many deaths due to the ADG Syndrome. Can the crew of the Enterprise find a cure in the history of the species from the songs that Uhura learnt from her Eeiauo friend.
An entertaining story, another re-read.

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THE MARLOW MURDERS an absolutely gripping crime mystery with a massive twist by Biba Pearce
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

After a party of the Life-giving Foundation at Holyhock Manor, Debby Morris goes missing. Thrree weeks later her body is discovered and the case given to DCI Rob Miller and his team. But why would anyone want to kill this married mother of two boys.
An entertaining and well-written modern mystery with its likable and varied characters. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.

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Death on Deck by Verity Bright
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

1923 On the collapse of her birthday plans Lady Eleanor embarks on a cruise to New York. Then she witnesses a man being shot and thrown overboard, and then only to discover that Detective Chief Inspector Hugh Seldon is on board seeking the murderer of his wife from seven years ago.
An entertaining hstorical mystery with its likeable characters

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A FATAL REUNION a British crime mystery full of twists by Malcolm Forsythe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Who would want to kill Home Office worker John Dennison. Is there a connection to his work. Will there be more deaths before DCI George Millson and DS Norris Scobie find the guilty party.
An entertaining modern mystery. Another good addition to this enjoyable series.
Originally published in 1995

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Mrs Pargeter's Package by Simon Brett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Recently widowed Joyce Dover convinces Mrs Pargeter to holiday together at Agios Nikitas. But by the first morning Joyce is dead. A presumed suicide. Mrs Pargeter investigates as she believes it was murder.
Ab enjoyable modern mystery.
Originally published in 1990

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Surviving Thomas Bennet: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Shana Granderson A Lady
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

In this Pride & Prejudice variation, James Bennet Junior, the master of Longbourn, and his wife Priscilla have a son, Jamie, and three daughters Jane, Elizabeth, and Mary. The second son Thomas becomes envious even though he has his own legacy of thirty thousand pounds. But tragedy strikes the family and Thomas Bennet arrives at Longbourn. How will this affect the future of not just the Bennet daughters.
An entertaining variation and one in which I liked the pairings. Though would have liked more about Mary's romance.
An enjoyable re-read, again

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The Modern Mother's Day Survival Guide by Laina Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In this modern day Pride & Prejudice variation, the Bennet daughters are older, Mary as the only unwed one is now 40. This is the story of the trials and tribulations of Mothers Day for the various families.
I admit I am not a fan of modern variations but this had my favourite couple (Mary and Richard) so I had to be read it.
An entertaining re-read of this story again. And again.

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The Dagger Before Me by Heather Haven
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

1942 New York City. P.I. Persephone 'Percy' Cole is employed by theatre producer Dexter Wainwright to investigate a string of accidents which have resulted in a death.
An entertaining historical mystery.

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Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Lord by Celeste Connally


I don't like not finishing books that I have agreed to review but this book was just not for me. The constant introduction of what will probably turn out to be unimportant people and unconnected to the plot was unfortunately boring. And I didn’t particularly like the main female character Lady Petra. I could only manage less that a third.

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The New Detective by Peter Steiner
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Willi Geismeier returns from the war in 1917 and re-joins the police force where he investgates the theft of drugs and equipment, and an insurance scam. But are they related. More thriller set against the history of Germany in these times rather than a mystery. Which was not what i was hoping to read.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Murder in the Mist by Cora Harrison
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It's Christmas time and Dickens has invited friends old and new to his home including Timmy O'Connor and his nephews. But O'Connor tuns out to be not what he seems, and when he is eventually killed there are many suspects among the guests. Wilkie Collins finds the guilty party.
An enjoyable historical mystery.
An ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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