THE STORY
Freya, a former antique hunter, is pulled back into the world of antiques after the mysterious death of her friend and mentor, Arthur. With the help of her odd but interesting Aunt Carole, she deciphers clues Arthur left behind—his way of ensuring that, should anything suspicious happen to him, someone would investigate. Their search finds them at an antiques retreat in a grand manor, where the furnishings are actually replicas rather than originals, and the guests seem to have questionable motives.
REVIEWS
Goodreads reviewers give the book 3 1/2 stars calling it a mixed bag with good marks for the look into the world of antiques but lower marks for writing style.
Bookshelf Soliloquies calls it a cozy mystery. Like me, writer Phoebe appreciated the glimpse into the world of antiques and, as she put it, the quirky characters. However, she, too had some discomfort with the writing style.
Amazon readers are a bit more generous, granting 4 stars and calling it ‘a very good read.’
Consensus amongst the many reviews that I read seems to be that the writing was a bit distracting, with some finding it a bit hard to get used to. I agree though I will add that I did get used to it and I did find the book more engaging as I went along.
Who will enjoy this book? I recommend it for someone looking for a cozy mystery that is a bit more complex or for someone who is interested in antiques and the antique underworld. I will be reading the second book in the series, The Antique Hunter’s Death on the Red Sea.
Another strong pick? If you are also interested in a similar look into art and the art world, Jeffrey Archer’s False Impression is a riveting must-read. A real page turner. Read my full review of First Impression here.
If you haven't read The Antique Hunter's Guide to Murder, find it here on Amazon. If you have read it and you enjoyed The Antique Hunter’s Guide to Murder, you’ll be pleased to know there’s more to read. The Antique Hunter’s Death on the Red Sea is next in the series, and with luck, both it and any future installments will be stronger and more captivating.
See you
At the bookstore!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda
Amazon readers are a bit more generous, granting 4 stars and calling it ‘a very good read.’
Consensus amongst the many reviews that I read seems to be that the writing was a bit distracting, with some finding it a bit hard to get used to. I agree though I will add that I did get used to it and I did find the book more engaging as I went along.
RECOMMENDED
Who will enjoy this book? I recommend it for someone looking for a cozy mystery that is a bit more complex or for someone who is interested in antiques and the antique underworld. I will be reading the second book in the series, The Antique Hunter’s Death on the Red Sea.
Another strong pick? If you are also interested in a similar look into art and the art world, Jeffrey Archer’s False Impression is a riveting must-read. A real page turner. Read my full review of First Impression here.
See you
At the bookstore!
Brenda
Treasures By Brenda
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Ah... fun to see the unusual world of antiques used as a background for a cozy mystery series. I've read several series placed in bookstores and bakeries, but this one surrounding antiques is a first. Looks like it has potential. Hopefully the author can smooth out her writing style as the series continues. Thanks for your recommendation, Brenda.
ReplyDeleteI agree with Elf. The premise is fun for a cozy mystery. I am currently reading a cozy mystery series with good, quirky characters but not really strong writing. I’m enjoying it anyway.
ReplyDeleteThis sounds like such a great book and one the I would thoroughly enjoy! I do love antiques, exploring antiques shops and even purchasing the occasional great find. I also enjoy a cozy mystery, so a great combination for me.
ReplyDeleteThanks for a thoughtful review. I appreciate you telling the good and the not so good.
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