Book Review: Death by the Book by Julianna Deering

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Synopsis of the book:

Drew Farthering wanted nothing more than to end the summer of 1932 with the announcement of his engagement. Instead, he finds himself caught up in another mysterious case when the family solicitor is found murdered, an antique hatpin with a cryptic message, Advice to Jack, piercing his chest.

Evidence of secret meetings and a young girl’s tearful confession point to the victim’s double life, but what does the solicitor’s murder have to do with the murder of a physician on the local golf course? Nothing, it would seem — except for another puzzling note, affixed with a similar-looking bloodied hatpin.

Soon the police make an arrest in connection with the murders, but Drew isn’t at all certain they have the right suspect in custody. And why does his investigation seem to be drawing him closer and closer to home?

My review:

Another enjoyable Drew Farthering mystery. Wonderfully quirky characters abound and the mystery is afoot! If it weren’t for the murders, solving the case would be fun for Drew. I enjoyed following him as he worked with the police to solve yet another mystery that has landed in his lap.

I very much enjoy Drew’s character. He is charming but not in a bad way. There is something about his charm combined with his inquisitive nature and attention to detail that is so appealing. My favorite part of this story was his interactions with Madeline and her newly arrived aunt. The aunt was such a great character and the way that she kept Drew on his toes was amusing.

Drew would marry Madeline immediately if only she would say yes. I like that even though she has feelings for him, she wants to take things slowly so that they have a chance to get to know each other.

The mystery was fun. So many suspects. I loved trying to figure out who the killer was. The story had me guessing for quite some time.

What I enjoyed most about this book:

Drew’s character by far. I’m almost jealous of Madeline. 😉

What I didn’t like about this book:

I didn’t like the murderer, but the revelation pushed things ahead in the story in a way that made me happy. You’ll have to read it yourself to find out how.

My rating: 5 out of 5 stars

Would I recommend this book to others? Yes. There is mystery, romance, and even a good faith message woven through. This is the second book in the series. It can be read as a standalone, although you will find yourself wanting to read the first book anyway just to get more of Drew and Madeline’s relationship.

Where can I learn more about this author and their books?

Julianna Deering, author website

-Loraine Nunley

Death by the Book by Julianna Deering (5 out of 5 stars) #BookReview #amreading

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