Sherlock Holmes and the Baskerville Cat

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This one is out February 13th by Crooked Lane Books and was a very enjoyable read. Apr 12, Kathleen rated it it was amazing Shelves: What a delightful twist for fans of Sherlock Holmes to enjoy! All delightfully fun references sparking my interest to read more! But, my newbie status was not a handicap, I was engaged from the start with enough references to background without spoilers and revisiting character connections.

Not the best casting, Gemma thought, when his drunk state is an embarrassment at a fundraising event catered by Jayne. But is being drunk, flubbing lines, and being an all-around arse a motive for murder? Gemma is straightforward, detail oriented, sometimes a know-it-all, while Jayne is more flexible, but these opposites work well. Unlike the literary Holmes and Watson characters, Gemma and Jayne find success as amateur detectives often by circumventing law enforcement providing for some entertaining conflicts and predicaments. Beyond the murder mystery and the investigation, Delany does well with her description, but doesn't rely on a narrative style; the dialogue adds humor and illustrates personality and emotion…very enjoyable!

I highly recommend joining Gemma and Jayne. I received an advanced copy through NetGalley.

“The Cat of the Baskervilles” Is Fun Holmes Pastiche

However, my review is voluntary, and my insights and opinions are honest. Another well planned mystery by Vicki Delany! The setting is so much fun it makes me want to visit Gemma and Jayne! I could go for a scone and some Sherlock Holmes pastiche! I was not a fan of this particular narrator and I think I would have enjoyed it more if I read a print copy. Feb 24, Amy rated it it was amazing. This is the third book in the series and definitely my favorite!

I have read the prior two in order. While this book can be read as a standalone, I recommend reading books one and two to see how the characters develop and connect with each other. I really disliked the protagonist's character, Gemma Doyle, in the first two books. I understood the Sherlock analogy but thought she overanalyzed everything and it really annoyed me.

In this book, her character develops and she shows a more human and c This is the third book in the series and definitely my favorite! In this book, her character develops and she shows a more human and compassionate side of herself. For example, she learns a secret that would really hurt a close friend if revealed to her. But Gemma decides not to share that information whereas, I think she would think she had to in prior books. The pace was just right and I was not overwhelmed with the number of suspects. The romantic tension between Gemma and Detective Ashburton which has been building since the first book continues to develop and the end has a number of surprising plot twists.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. My review is voluntary. Feb 24, Lesa rated it really liked it Shelves: I love Gemma Doyle's mind. I love the way she thinks. And, this time, Gemma's caught up in a mystery involving theater. A true treat for me. The local summer theater in West London, Massachusetts has three plays scheduled for the season, but "The Hound of the Baskervilles" will be the highlight.

And, Sir Nigel Bellingham has agreed to reprise his role from years earlier. Hudson's Tea Room, the tea shop run by her business partner, Jayne Wilson. But, everyone is shocked when Sir Nigel arrives, and turns out to be an aging drunk who is rude to everyone. Jayne agrees to cater a fundraising tea for over a hundred, and ropes Gemma into assisting. That's why Gemma is on the scene and finds Sir Nigel's body at the bottom of a cliff. And, Gemma takes a minute to hide a piece of evidence, ribbon from an apron worn by one of Jayne's servers. Unfortunately, even without that evidence, the police zero in on Jayne's mother.

And, Gemma won't let Mrs. As I said, I love Gemma's mind. She has no filter when she tries to reveal her information. But, she's canny in avoiding the wrong conversations with the police. One investigator dislikes and distrusts her, while the other one was almost engaged to her once. And, Ryan knows a little too much about Gemma's ways of thinking. I also enjoy the humor in this series.

See a Problem?

Besides the police detective, Gemma has another enemy, the bookshop cat named Moriarty. He likes everyone except Gemma and Ryan, and they often end up with bloody hands. In addition, I have a major peeve with cozy mysteries in which the amateur sleuth leaves their business. Gemma knows about that problem. Not that I am a detective, nor do I want to be one, but sometimes it seems that I can't help myself. How can I object to the actions of a sleuth who acknowledges her bad behavior?

Pick up an intelligent cozy mystery with a fascinating amateur sleuth and a fun cast of supporting characters. Humor, a touch of romance, and Gemma's intriguing mind. The Sherlock Holmes connection, and theater in this book, add to the enjoyment of The Cat of the Baskervilles.

Same series

Summer Stock theater productions are a tremendous draw for locals and tourists all over The USA, and as Cape Cod prepares for its main attraction, The Hound of the Baskervilles, everyone is beyond excited except Gemma Doyle who is definitely expecting increase in sales and adjusts her inventory according. The main attraction of the production - well, you will have to read this charming cozy mystery to discover this as I do not read and tell! Needless to say, Gemma becomes involved in the mystery to the consternation of Detective Ryan Ashburton.

Gemma has an extraordinary sense of observation,and she uses it particularly well which, I believe, Det. This cannot be so Gemma throws herself into discovering the true culprit? Mar 19, Laura rated it it was amazing Shelves: He is long past his prime and an old drunk to boot. The cast, in particular the much younger actor who previously had the role, are not happy, b Cape Cod welcomes stage and movie star Sir Nigel Bellingham, who is set to star in a stage production of The Hound of the Baskervilles put on by the West London Theater Festival.

The cast, in particular the much younger actor who previously had the role, are not happy, but the show must go on. Sir Nigel fumbles his lines at a fund-raising tea, catered by Gemma's best friend Jayne, things turn bad.

Then Sir Nigel disappears after the tea, right after Gemma noticed Leslie, Jayne's mother, talking with him. When Gemma and her friend Grant find Sir Nigel at the bottom of the rocky cliff, dead. Along with the dead body, Gemma finds evidence incriminating Leslie Wilson. When the police focus on Leslie it's time for Gemma to go into action and prove Leslie's innocence.

This series gets better with every book. The mystery in this one is wonderfully crafted and kept me guessing. I like the way Ms. Delany works up to the murder, letting us get to know the characters and their backgrounds before the murder takes place. I like Gemma, despite the fact she can be overbearing and a bit of a know-it-all. She is, as Jayne says, blunt. I like the way she faces things head on and doesn't take risks that put her in the category of heroine that makes me scream at the book. With every book I read in this series I wish this was a real place where I could visit and examine all the Sherlock Holmes books and trinkets.

As always I look forward to the next book in this series, to see what mystery Gemma finds herself involved with next. Ohhh this was so good! I literally couldn't put this book down. This was actually the first one of this series I've read so I was just curious enough to read it first. As with other books this author has written, this can stand perfectly on its own.

The author gives enough backstory so that new readers aren't lost but there aren't any spoilers from other books' mysteries. Gemma Doyle is helping her friend Jayne cater a fancy tea for the local theater group that happens to have a famous old actor Ohhh this was so good!

Gemma Doyle is helping her friend Jayne cater a fancy tea for the local theater group that happens to have a famous old actor playing Sherlock Holmes. When the actor turns up dead later and all fingers point to Jayne's mom Leslie, Gemma once again decides she has to do some private investigation in order to come to the truth. Her friend Grant who owns a rare book shop is around to help her at times all the while that Jayne is trying to make her see that police detective Ryan still likes her a lot even though his partner Louise isn't very nice to Gemma.

Gemma is convinced it's because she Gemma and Ryan were close once and either Louise is jealous or she's bitter that Ryan got lead detective instead of Louise getting it. Gemma is always worried Louise is trying to find a reason to get him demoted. After some investigations, leads and the premier play night, everything is revealed at the end in true Sherlock style and the ending is a very nice one!

I'm so anxious now to read the other two books in this series since I have really gotten to know and like these characters. I hope this series continues for a long time. It'll be interesting to see how that works out. In this third installment in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series, Gemma and Jayne have a vested interest in solving the mysterious death of an aging theatre star.

A past secret was divulged, giving her a motive for murder. Though this is part of series, it works as a standalone. The mystery is a credible one, but t In this third installment in the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series, Gemma and Jayne have a vested interest in solving the mysterious death of an aging theatre star. The mystery is a credible one, but the real enjoyment of a cozy is the interaction of the characters as they go about their everyday lives, which, of course, include murder.

Mar 03, Jessica Wilhoite rated it it was amazing Shelves: This was my favorite of Gemma Doyle's adventures so far. Vicky Delany makes it appear as if the crime is solved, but then a shocking twist and boom! Murderer and motive finally revealed. Add Moriarty, the cat who loves all but Gemma and a couple of love twists, this makes for a great third book in this series! I voluntarily reviewed this book on Netgalley. Jan 16, Monnie rated it it was amazing.

This is the third book in this highly entertaining Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series; I've read one other and enjoyed it, so when I was lucky enough to be approved by the publisher to read and review an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I was a happy camper. When it turned out to be even better than that other one, well, my smile widened. The cozy mysteries follow the amateur sleuthing of Gemma Doyle, co-owner of the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop and Emporium in West London, Massach This is the third book in this highly entertaining Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series; I've read one other and enjoyed it, so when I was lucky enough to be approved by the publisher to read and review an advance copy in exchange for an honest review, I was a happy camper.

Originally from England, Gemma has a nose for details and, it seems, loves nothing better than sticking it into the business of the local police sometimes unintentionally, sometimes not. That both annoys and pleases police detective, Ryan - a former lover who "dumped" her and left the area for another job. Now he's back and the attraction is there, but they've since been holding each other at arms' lengths.

As this begins, the community is excited to learn that a well-known but aging stage actor, Sir Nigel Bellingham, will be in town to star in a local theater production of Holmes's The Hound of the Baskervilles. As rehearsals begin, organizers decide to hold a fund-raising English tea at the home of one of the well-heeled theater-loving ladies - and Jayne convinces Gemma that their shops should handle the catering.

The Cat of the Baskervilles - Crooked Lane Books

Gemma is less enthusiastic, but she agrees. After all, it's a private event for about a hundred local hoity-toits - what could possibly go wrong? Make that plenty - starting with the fact that Sir Nigel turns out to be a nasty old drunk. Still, everyone expects that his professionalism will surface long enough for him to get through the play; that is, until he's found quite dead at the bottom of a cliff on the property. To make matters even worse, if that's possible, the primary suspect is Jayne's mother Leslie.

Gemma is certain Leslie is innocent, and of course, she sets out to prove it while trying to keep her poking nose out of the sight of law enforcement. That proves next to impossible most of the time, which strains the already fragile relationship between Gemma and Ryan as well as with Ryan's partner, who has butted heads with Gemma on more than one occasion and isn't fond of her meddling.

More details I must necessarily leave for other readers to discover, but I will say that anyone who enjoys an occasional respite from heavier reading as I do or simply the more lighthearted approach of an interesting cozy mystery won't go wrong by picking this one.

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The series pays homage to the great Sherlock Holmes and creatively entwines Sherlock facts throughout the books. As the series progresses and the author digs deeper into the lives, loves and murder in West London it keeps getting better! Gemma, the main character, is acutely observant, cognitively o The Cat of the Baskervilles by Vicky Delany is the third installment of the Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery series.

Gemma, the main character, is acutely observant, cognitively on a different level and blunt, however those are exactly the traits that make her a great main character and amateur sleuth. Her sensible friend and usually unwilling accomplice, Jayne, is a good balance to Gemma, just like Holmes and Watson.

This book introduces the reader to additional residents of West London and continues to develop the existing characters. I received an advance copy of this book from the author in exchange for a fair and honest review. Jan 28, Sharon rated it really liked it Shelves: Vicky Delaney has delivered a very charming, sometimes funny and intriguing mystery. I absolutely loved the English element, anything to do with England or the English is always a favourite. A well written and flowing storyline make for a pleasurable reading experience.

The twist at the end I did not see coming at all until it was revealed by the main character Gemma Doyle. Looking back I did remember the vital clue but dismissed it. All characters were extremely well written and came alive on the page there were just the right amount of suspects to keep me guessing. Too many and it gets confusing and not enough makes it easy to solve. The only thing that bothered me about the book is the title. Even though there is a cat in the story it had very little bearing on the actual story and the events that took place. I would recommend to fans of Cozy Mysteries and Sherlock Holmes.

View all 4 comments. Oct 08, Kirsti rated it it was amazing Shelves: A big thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book! I haven't ever read any Sherlock Holmes. Nor have I seen any movies, plays, television shows or anything like that. At one point Gemma states that the whole world knows the Baskerville story, but I don't. Did that effect a themed cozy for me? Not even a little!

Such is this book with its fun characters, great plot and fast paced writing that a lack of knowledge was no impediment. The book trots along comfortably, and we're revealed just enough hints that we keep up with the murder mystery with ease. Gemma herself is an excellent character, but she's supported by a brilliant cast of reoccurring characters that all add to the mystery.

Add to that two fine animal companions and you're close to cozy perfection. I loved it of course, but I'll wait to post the review until closer to the release. This is a fun mystery series that I'd like to see more of. Jan 17, Lisa Morin rated it really liked it. The Cat of the Baskervilles by Vicki Delany is the third installment of this series. Gemma is a wonderful main character. She speaks her mind, interferes in police investigations and is a loyal friend. When her best friend and business partner falls for an actor, Gemma sees through his charade, but won't let it destroy her friendship.

When a well known actor turns out to be a drunk and a scoundrel, Gemma fights to the end to protect her friend's mother. This book was a delight to read. I enjoy Gemma's spunk and her bluntness. She brings an interesting twist to the series. The author has created a very likeable character and the cast of secondary characters are just as fun.

Cozy mystery readers will be delighted to read this book. Jun 06, Peggy R rated it really liked it Shelves: I really enjoy the characters in this series. Gemma is a bit unique in her personality which I don't mind. It sets her apart from other main characters. The secondary cast of characters complete the story and I like how her friends try and soften her bluntness and outspokenness. The mystery was well done and I culprit was not on my radar. A full review will be posted closer to the release date in February I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy provided by Netgalley, who is closing reviews and archiving this title on December 26th.

Dec 25, The Cozy Review rated it it was amazing. Before rehearsals can even start, Sir Nigel plunges to his death from the cliffs. Now it's a matter of whether it was suicide or murder. Unfortunately, Gemma not only finds the body, but she also finds evidence incriminating Leslie Wilson. When the police, in the presence of handsome detective Ryan Ashburton and suspicious detective Louise Estrada, focus their attention on Leslie despite the numerous other suspects, the game is once again afoot. Its again up to the highly perceptive Gemma and the ever-confused but loyal Jayne to clear Leslie before she is arrested.

Delany has created a wonderful series in the vein of Mr. Doyle right down to the memorable characters and the methods Sherlock employs to deduce the villain. The setting of West London, Mass is picture perfect, and theatre is a fitting setting for murder and mystery. In today's world of formulaic stories, it is nice to come across one that is outside of the general cozy genre and which emphasizes the clues and deductions over simple romance and tired plots.

The age of Doyle and Christie is alive and well, and readers will be drawn to stories that contain more than the average book. Gemma is a great detective who uses reason and observation as her tools. Running her business, The Sherlock Holmes Bookshop, she has an advantage over her Homes obsessed customers and even the police. She can deduce clues and motives faster and better.

Often, before the police even realize a crime has been committed Gemma is already investigating. This is the third book in the series, but it is not necessary to read the previous installments to understand what is going on and who the players are. The story is fun and entertaining as well as though provoking, and can be read in one sitting.

The Cat of the Baskervilles Is highly recommended to anyone who enjoys Doyle or Christie, and any reader who just wants a good book. Gemma makes for an unusual protagonist, but the Sherlock Holmes themed bookstore and adjoining Mrs. One time film and stage star Sir Nigel Bellingham is set to be 3. One time film and stage star Sir Nigel Bellingham is set to be the headliner, but no one is quite prepared for the washed up elderly alcoholic who arrives.

His performance at a fund raising tea does not go well, and he is soon found at the bottom of a cliff.

Was his death the result of a tragic accident? Did he commit suicide? When tea is finished, they ask Sir Nigel to give a recitation from The Hound of the Baskervilles , but he proves unable to do so, whether because of his drunken state or his poor knowledge of the play. Fortunately, Eddie, his understudy, steps in and impresses everyone.

As the program has ended, Gemma begins to wonder what has happened to Sir Nigel and goes out searching, along with her friend Grant, a rare book collector. As they near the cliff, they spot a red cravat on a bush near the edge and, bending over, see the body of Sir Nigel on the rocks at the bottom of the cliff. As Grant goes to summon the police, Gemma ckimbs down to the body, just in case he is still alive.

But not only does she find him dead, she finds a small piece of one of the aprons used by the serving staff, making this potential murder personal to Gemma. I love this particular pastiche of the Sherlock Holmes books and am impressed by the way Gemma plays Holmes without seeing herself as a Holmes character. Her relationship with Jayne develops throughout the course of the book, and it is nice to see the two as real people. The plot contains many interesting angles, which kept me drawn to the book and unable to put it down.

I was intrigued by all the deductions and especially loved the ending. Kim Hicks performs the audio version of this book. I confess to preferring the work of Kelly Clare, who narrated the first two books, but Hicks does a good job. The role requires someone able to handle both a British and an American accent. I really had fun with The Cat of the Baskervilles. This book created plenty of delight as I listened to it.

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