3/5 ⭐⭐⭐


**Many thanks to NetGalley and the Publisher for sharing this advanced digital copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.**

I love nothing more than a good murder mystery that takes place in a manor. So, it’s no surprise that when I saw this synopsis, I had to request it!

Jo Jones is not your typical protagonist. A neurodivergent and hyperlexic book editor from the hustle and bustle of New York, she suddenly finds herself thrust into the serene yet enigmatic English countryside. Just when she thought her life couldn't get more complicated, a dead body turns up in her cottage.

I really enjoyed Jo as a character; I found her witty and charming. From the start of the book, she is thrust into a series of unfortunate events. She lost her job, got divorced, and her mother passed away all in one year. And now she learns that she inherited her mother’s estranged brother’s estate. When she discovers that mysterious painting that no one else has ever seen before, I knew there would be a haunting vibe to the whole story, which I enjoyed!

I did have trouble with the narrative also showing the detective's POV. I found it a little distracting as I would have rather stayed in Jo’s POV, as I really liked her. The story sort of weaved in and out of scenes. I’ve encountered this type of writing before, but in this case, it caused a disconnect for me. The story did drag a little for me in places, but overall, it was a cozy little murder mystery.

Overall, it was a cute story, perfect for fall vibes. I’m curious to read what else this author has in store

I thoroughly enjoyed this mystery! Jo Jones is looking for a fresh start when she comes to England to check out the estate she inherited. She gets a little more than she bargained for when the groundskeeper is discovered dead on her living room floor. This is a good, gothic-feeling story that was populated with interesting characters, none more than Jo herself! I enjoyed how Jo and Detective MacAdams were both finding clues to what happened, but neither knew the whole story. My only complaint was that there were a few too many loose ends when the novel ended. I'm hoping that means a sequel is on the way! Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy in return for my honest opinion.

A sharp, savvy mystery about an autistic editor who inherits a crumbling English estate, only to find herself at the center of a murder investigation when a family portrait vanishes and a dead body turns up.

What a fun novel! I really appreciated the autism representation. The characters and setting were really engrossing.

Schillace's main character was recognizably working through societal norms with illease, but also was wrtten so compellingly that she was a delight to follow and discover. From the first, her relationship with her mother and her mother's history were a mystery worth solving. Adding a murder and a charming cast of characters only made it better. A sweet and engaging diversion with really lovely neurodivergent representation.

Take one whip-smart autistic editor, add in a dilapidated English estate that she inherits, and a murder that leads the town to point fingers at her. Plus a fab cover that drew me in as much as the riveting mystery.

Sadly this was a DNF for me. I really enjoyed Jo’s character but when we got to the MacAdams point of view it just didn’t keep my interest. I wanted more about the house and Jo and less of the detective work. I really tried to get into this one, but I just kept zoning out and having to reread parts when it was MacAdams point of view. I’m sure others will disagree and really enjoy this though. It was well written and I was very glad of the autism representation! We don’t see that enough. All opinions stated are solely my own! Thanks so much to Netgalley and the Publisher for a copy of the arc in return for an honest review!

This book was such a unique, fun journey. The setting was absolutely my vibe. The FMC was brilliant and stood her ground in a world of pompous men, despite any disadvantages she viewed herself as having. The writing was superb. I immediately connected to the characters and story. I will definitely recommend this to everyone I know.

This was a bizarre, unique, and entertaining murder mystery. I liked the concept and enjoyed the characters as well as how the story played out.

Jo Jones is a fish out of water. A divorced, autistic American editor, she’s relocated to the wilds of Yorkshire to claim her dilapidated, possibly haunted, family estate. When the gardener ends up on her rug with three bullets in him, Jo is the obvious suspect. Jo has to clear herself of suspicion and she enlists the help of a local detective, an antique collector, and an innkeeper’s wife to find the real killer before he can strike again