I have really liked most of Wingate's books, both in the Potting Shed and Birds of a Feather series. Every Trick in the Rook features an opportunity to learn more about Julia's past, including her marriage to and divorce from Nick, who turns up dead near the start of this book. I also liked seeing Julia with her siblings a bit more. While I prioritize plot over characterization, I loved getting to know Julia's family better. But...

SPOILER ALERT

...from the moment we see scratches on the woman Julia presumes to be a tabloid reporter--the very first time she appears in the book--we feel suspicious of her. And then when Julia visits the place Nick died and ends up with similar scratches...

There are other issues, too. Julia's weird incoherence--her inability to express herself clearly--gets very irritating. Michael's moving out feels forced, though the ending at least makes it somewhat believable. And Julia's continued belief that Olive/Doris is a reporter despite all sorts of hints that she is not again make Julia seem sort of...dumb.

Usually, when a character makes my radar go off immediately and I think, "That's the killer," I'm wrong. And I like that. When the murderer seems to be broadcast from at least halfway through the book, it makes for an unsatisfying read.

All the logistics of the TIC and Rupert's bird empire and such are interesting background, and I like the world Julia lives in. But I want the plotting of the mystery itself to be more subtle and complex.

A review copy of this book was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review of the book.

Wingate at her best! I just love getting caught up with Julia and Michael. Reading about village life, all the birds, and Julia's sleuthing ways is such a treat.

This was a very charming story! I absolutely loved it from start to finish. The setting and characters were delightful. It is definitely a must read book! I can't wait for the next story in this series!

Enjoyable cozy mystery set in rural England. I've read every book in this series and I really liked this newest addition. The antics/behavior of the rook caught my fancy and added a lot to the story.

Another great cozy mystery in the Birds of a Feather series. As usual Marty Wingate serves up a charming cast of characters and a peaceful idyllic setting in Smeaton.

It would be great if the rook Alfie got his own series. I am now inspired to read Corvus.