The Sassy Bookworm

Book Review: Murder at the Osborne Outlet by Peter Jay Black 🔎📚

Rating: 4 Stars

I just finished Murder at the Osborne Outlet, and I have to say, it’s a pretty solid read—definitely earns a hearty four stars from me! The story kicks off when Ruth Morgan shows up at the Osborne Outlet, expecting a straightforward consulting gig about cakes. But instead, she stumbles onto a crime scene that’s anything but sweet: a shop owner has been murdered—and bizarrely posed like a mannequin. Talk about a shocking start! 🕵️‍♀️🍰

The police have their prime suspect lined up—the victim’s rival—but Ruth, tapping into her old ex-cop instincts (and with some help from her slightly reluctant grandson), isn’t convinced. As she digs deeper, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets hidden beneath the outlet’s quaint Tudor-style storefronts and flashy designer discounts. There’s more than just rivalry going on here—deadly feuds and even a sneaky counterfeiting ring add layers to the mystery. It’s a clever setup that kept me guessing until the end. 🔍🕵️‍♂️💥

What really stands out in this installment is the fun setting. Plus, I have to give props to the writing. It is engaging and keeps you hooked. The characters are fantastic, especially Ruth, who’s charming in that no-nonsense, witty way only an amateur sleuth with a past in law enforcement can be. 📚✨👵

Oh, and can we talk about that cover? Seriously, it caught my eye immediately—delightful and perfectly fitting for the tone of the book. This series continues to be a real joy to follow, and Murder at the Osborne Outlet adds another fun, twisty chapter to Ruth’s adventures. If you’re into modern British mysteries with cozy vibes and strong female leads, this one’s definitely worth picking up! 🎨📖🇬🇧

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️

Book Review: Helle’s Hound by Oskar Jensen 🔎📚

Rating: 4 stars

I recently finished Helle’s Hound by Oskar Jensen, and I have to say, it was a refreshing and enjoyable read. This witty murder mystery follows Danish art historian Torben Helle as he stumbles into a puzzling case involving the death of his mentor, Dame Charlotte Lazerton. Dame Charlotte, an eminent figure in the art world with a shadowy Cold War past, is found dead — partially eaten by her own Irish wolfhound, Mortimer. While the police chalk her death up to natural causes, Torben suspects foul play and embarks on an investigation that quickly spirals into a tangled web of academic rivalries and old espionage grudges. 🕵️‍♂️🐕

What I really appreciated about this book was how it cleverly blends the classic elements of a Golden Age whodunit with a modern twist — all set against a Scandinavian backdrop that fans of Nordic Noir will recognize (and enjoy). Torben, despite being completely out of his depth as an amateur detective, is a charming and relatable protagonist. His partnership with Leyla, an old friend, adds a nice dynamic that keeps the story engaging. 🇩🇰📚

The plot is well-crafted and intelligent, with plenty of twists that kept me guessing without feeling contrived. Plus, the cast of characters is memorable and well-drawn, making the mystery not just about whodunnit but also about the complex relationships and motivations behind the crime. 🔍✨

Also, I can’t help but mention the book’s cover — it’s absolutely delightful and really caught my eye right away. All in all, Helle’s Hound is a thoroughly entertaining mystery that I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys a smart, character-driven whodunnit with a bit of Scandinavian flair. I’m definitely looking forward to more adventures with Torben Helle. 🎨📖

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️