Will they solve the mystery or die in the trying?

Well, I must admit that even though The Juliet Code had a bit of a slow start for me, boy, did it take off lickety-split when Grace and Frederick arrive at the house. The location of past murder, hidden identities, betrayal, and a possible lost treasure with its clues hidden in a series of paintings.

Once again author Pepper Basham blends humor with suspense, romance with danger, and historical fiction with mystery. She has done it with the previous Freddie & Grace Mysteries and she has proved her continued success with this 3rd book in the series.

I found the mystery to be quite interesting as I have long been a fan of the mystery from the past trope. It was fun trying to figure out who was really whom and exactly what they were up to. Some of my guesses were spot-on, some not so much.

The Juliet Code was an enjoyable read and a good addition to the Freddie & Grace Mystery series from Pepper Basham. After reading this 3rd book as well as book 2 I will be quite interested to see if the series is continued another book...

(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)

Why I chose this book: I honestly love Pepper Basham. I have loved watching her develop as an author over the years. When I had the opportunity to read a book set in one of my favorite places...well, I was all in.

Type of Book: Christian romance/suspense

Overall: I enjoyed this one. I was not a huge fan of the book in the series before this one--too many characters. I got so lost in who was who that I couldn't enjoy the story. However, The Juliet Code has just the right mix of adventure, setting, and plot that I thoroughly enjoyed my time spent with this mystery-solving duo. Pepper's characters have a knack for sharing great wisdom and insights and I love how the author weaves these into the story without sounding preachy. These characters are just living life and speaking--just how Christians should be living and sharing their faith. Our faith should be so woven into our lives that it just "shows up" and other people see it and want to know more. I have yet to meet her, but I have a strong feeling Pepper is this type of lovely woman; so full of faith and love and kindness that it just pours out of her everyday living.

Favorite Quotes/Characters:

"They must be very bored, indeed, to engage in such dangerous activities. Perhaps they weren't readers."

"Very good strategy, my lord. Who's to say reading fiction doesn't help in very real-life situations."

As a mom, I loved this quote: "He's written your days and mine, darling Grace. And even if He must pull my worry about you from my fisted hands, I must trust you to His story for your life."

Bookshelf worthy? This one is a 50/50 for me. It's a cute read. And I did like it. I think you should read it and let me know if it should be added to my shelf or not.

Teenability: I think this would be a fine read for a teen. This is a married couple on their honeymoon so there is talk of wanting to be alone and how Grace's husband makes her feel. But there are no sex scenes or extravagant kissing scenes.

4.5 stars from me

*Thank you to Netgalley and Barbour for the advance copy. All opinions are honest and my own.

While on their honeymoon, Grace and Frederick are invited into a mystery by Detective Jack Miracle. Several thefts of expensive paintings have occurred along with murders of anyone that dares to get in the way. There’s also a code hidden in the paintings that supposedly lead to a hidden treasure on an island owned by Daniel Laraby. Laraby wants the thieves caught but also instigates some games of his own that irritate the detectives. Several characters were also involved in the “game” and kept this reader guessing about what would happen next and who would be in danger. Mysteries, surprises, murders, who dunnits, plus some humor and sweet moments were “peppered” among the pages. (Pun intended) I haven’t met a book yet by Pepper Basham that I haven’t enjoyed. She covers several genres in her writings, and also includes some swoon worthy romance. I need to go back and read the first two books in this series but it didn’t keep me from being entertained by The Juliet Code.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.

When Freddie and Grace travel to Venice for their belated honeymoon, they find their detective friend Jack Miracle there investigating some stolen artwork. They can’t turn him down when he asks for their help, so they’re off on another adventure. Reading all those mysteries she loves comes in handy when Grace starts looking for clues. I enjoyed seeing Grace’s enthusiasm for sleuthing and Freddie’s realization that life with Grace would never be boring.

With plenty of action, suspense, humor, and intrigue, this tale has something for everyone. Basham’s signature wit and humor shine once again and make for some laughable moments. The main characters are fun and interesting, and the mystery kept me guessing. I did feel that the romantic innuendos between Grace and Freddie were a little excessive. Although I realized they are newlyweds, I felt a little uncomfortable since this is Christian fiction. It felt a bit inappropriate to me.

The Juliet Code is the third book in Pepper Basham’s Freddie & Grace Mystery series. While it could possibly be read as a stand alone book, some of the references might be a little confusing if you haven’t read the first two stories in the series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Barbour Publishing. All opinions are my own.

An amazing adventure full of surprises! The connection that Grace and Freddie continue to have in this book makes for such an enjoyable read. I love the humour but especially love how they continually bring their lives back to God. Grace says, “No matter what. He’s holding us on this side of eternity or the next.” What an amazing truth to remember everyday.

Frederick and Grace Percy arrive in Venice for their honeymoon. When they run into Jack, an old friend and investigator, they are pulled into a mystery with all the accoutrements. Grace is delighted, but Frederick is apprehensive considering the dangerous situation they had just exited not all that long ago. Their trust in God and each other will be tested during the adventures that await!

This book was a delight to read, and I would recommend readers first read the other mysteries in the series. This book does stand on its own, carrying references from other escapades of these characters.
It is a well-written and thought-out story. It became very difficult to put it down, with twists in the story I did not expect. The audience for this novel would be late teen into adulthood, only for maturity in the content. There are murders and allusions to joys of a wonderful marriage, no foul language contained.

This novel captivated me so much that I started listening to the first mystery in the series, The Mistletoe Countess. I will post a review on that audiobook as well.

A fabulous read. Pepper Basham is a brilliant author.! I found this book to be full of adventure. I really enjoyed the character development despite this being the second book in the series by Basham. The book was filled with adventure, mystery, beautiful scenery because of Basham's ability to describe a scene, romance between a husband and wife that was clean and refreshing. I look forward to reading another book from this author.

I love a good mystery indeed. Luckily, I was blessed to read one of the sequel’s, The Cairo’s Curse, which reminded me of the game, Clue. 
We now have come upon a reluctant Mr. Frederick Percy, Earl of Astley, who is thrown into being a sleuth much to his new wife, Grace’s delight. As they are asked by his detective friend, Jack to help him with his latest so-called simple thievery mystery. They soon learn that it involves a curse, but the sleuthing mushy couple are not going to fall for it. They make an adorable team with a bit too much romance for me.
Frederick isn’t too keen on the American who hired Jack, but nevertheless, they take on the challenge of the missing artwork piece. You’ll enjoy over a nice cup of coffee. I received this book for free from Celebrate Lit Tour and the opinions I express are honest and my own.

We can start in our little corner where God places us.

Lord Frederick Astley and his lovely wife Grace Percy are finally on their honeymoon in Venice. Needless to say, they find themselves embroiled in a mystery that makes this trip anything but boring.

Locked in a trunk, almost drowning and even a ghost make this ‘game’ one to long remember. What really is the curse that seems to follow the lovely Juliet paintings? With lots of action and plenty of love, you will find yourself laughing out loud at times and wondering if they will survive in the next moment.

Published by Barbour Publishing this copy was received through NetGalley. These impressions are my own and were in no way solicited.

I love Freddie and Grace. Pepper Basham does a terrific job of exploring their personalities and their relationship to each other while they're solving the mystery. And that mystery will leave you on the edge of your seat until the end. I couldn't guess who the culprits were until Freddie and Grace figured it all out. Oh my, I would love to see those Juliet paintings. What a great idea for a mystery story. I would recommend this to romantics and mystery lovers alike. There is also a great side story concerning their detective friend. I hope Pepper Basham decides to continue with that as well. Can't wait for the next Freddie and Grace. Read this one - it's a page-turner.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review

I loved the first two books in Pepper Basham’s Freddie and Grace Mystery series. With unique settings, charming and often hilarious characters, sizzling sweet romance, and twisting mysteries, what’s not to like?! The Juliet Code continues the honeymoon travels of Lord and Lady Astley as they visit the romantic city of Venice. But Grace can’t seem to help stumbling into an investigation. This time Frederick is wholeheartedly along for the ride. They join their friend and professional investigator Detective Jack Miracle in uncovering the missing Juliet paintings. Really, nothing is as it seems, and I enjoyed puzzling out just what was going on and who was actually who 😉 . A treasure hunt, a curse, secret rooms, and dead bodies are the thrilling elements of this historical novel. Basham does a great job of bringing Venice to life. Her creation of a fictional island in the Lagoon is wonderfully done as well. As always Grace brings just the right amount of humor to balance tense situations, making her a favorite amateur sleuth. Her love of books and the references found in The Juliet Code will delight bibliophiles as well. Basham weaves spiritual threads naturally throughout the narrative. The broken world and God’s care are compared — there’s is always grace that accompanies hurt; hope that overshadows loss.

You’ll find well-written historical mystery and romance in The Juliet Code. Recommended!

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

I just love this Freddie & Grace series! The first two books were amazing, and this one just follows right along. I am, however, sad that this series has to come to an end...I hate the idea of leaving these two lovely characters behind.
But, I greatly enjoyed the reading of this book.
Freddie and Grace think they will finally get to really and truly enjoy their honeymoon, this time in Venice. To their surprise, another mystery catches up with them. Much to Grace's delight, and Freddie's chagrin.
There are so many things going on in this book. Lots of strange characters, and just when you begin to suspect one, well you get more information that adds another to your suspect list. This story kept me guessing the entire way through!

This book is fun, action packed, and just a delight to read.
I highly recommend it!

My Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 Review

The further adventures of Freddie & Grace. This time they're in Italy, Venice specifically. What is to be a quiet honeymoon quickly turns into a mystery to solve when Detective Miracle, also from England, asks for their help on a case. Parts of the story almost felt like an Agatha Christie novel, with people turning up dead or hurt.. Every time a painting is from a series of paintings depicting scenes from Romeo & Juliet is stolen, someone usually ends up dead. Then while on an island for a party, another one if the paintings is stolen and more people die. Who's the thief/killer & how did they get on the island? Did someone cry wolf too many times? Is there a treasure hidden, with the clues hidden in the paintings? So many questions & not enough answers. A grand adventure for Grace who's a want to be detective & not so much for her much quieter husband Freddie.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Grace and Frederick are excited to spend their honeymoon together in Venice, they are surprised to find their dear friend Jack already there and in need of their help with a current case.

Swept into a another adventure filled mystery, newlyweds Grace and Frederick must use their skills to unravel what is happening to the missing paintings before something more sinister occurs. A delightful read with wonderful chemistry and interaction between the characters, I also liked the friendship that Grace and Frederick have with Jack, as well as seeing their relationship grow stronger. It was also fun seeing Jack team up with a spunky counterpart of his own, in this fast paced mystery.

A highly enjoyable read with wonderful characters, strong faith and growth, with a positive view of marriage, as well as plenty of adventure! A terrific addition to the series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

What a fun story! The dynamic sleuthing duo of Frederick & Grace is delightful. This newly married couple are supposed to be on their honeymoon but continue to encounter trouble wherever they go. This adventure of theirs takes place in Italy when Grace's purse gets nabbed, and she chases after the culprit! From there, we experience a beautiful island, an art thief or two, murder, and mayhem. But we also enjoy fun banter, great friendships, and the sweetness of newlyweds! From beginning to end, this book is full of adventure and love. Definitely recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham
Newlyweds Lord and Lady Astley Finally Reach Their Honeymoon Destination Only to Encounter a New Mystery in Need of Solving.
Frederick and Grace Percy finally make it to Italy to enjoy a delayed honeymoon and explore the beauties of the historic city of Venice. To their surprise, their friend, Detective Jack Miracle, is also in the city, investigating a series of art heists starting at the house of eccentric millionaire, Laraby Covington. Drawn into a world of boat races, mysterious houses, and parties of the rich and unusual in Venice, Frederick and Grace learn of the existence of the Juliet paintings, (Renaissance paintings feature Shakespeare’s tragic heroine) rumored to hold a secret code to an underground vault of similarly treasured artwork assumed lost over the centuries. As Freddie and Grace are pulled deeper into the mystery and their beloved Detective Jack disappears, can they use their wits and work as a team to find the thieves and Jack before it’s too late?
This is Freddie and Grace Percy's story.
This is Detective Jack Miracle's story.
This is the third book on the ‘Freddie and Grace Mysteries’ series by Pepper Basham.
If you like romance and mystery you will like this book.
The Juliet Code by Pepper Basham is a 3 star book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

Award-winning author Pepper Basham returns with the third novel in the Freddie and Grace Mystery series where mystery, romance, and humor abound.

In The Juliet Code, Frederick and Grace Percy finally arrive at their Italian honeymoon destination, only to discover their friend Detective Jack Miracle in the midst of an art heist investigation. They learn about the Juliet paintings, rumored to hide a code to the location of hidden artwork. The Percys are determined to help their detective friend find the truth behind the mysterious deaths of the paintings’ owners.

Well-known for her humor and romance, Basham allows Frederick and Grace to grow in their relationship, as they work together. Grace embraces the adventure as if Freddie planned it especially for her. Basham balances the romance, humor, and mystery in her faith-based storyline, creating endearing fictional characters the reader would enjoy meeting in real life.

Readers will encounter twists and characters with sinister motives as they join Freddie and Grace on this Italian adventure. While it can be read independently, readers are encouraged to read Mistletoe Countess, and The Cairo Curse to enjoy the beginnings of the Percys’ relationship. Hopefully we will see more Freddie and Grace Mysteries!

Recommended for adult collections in public libraries and mystery buffs. Fans of Agatha Christie, Dorothy Gillman's Mrs. Polifax series, Elizabeth Peters' Amelia Peabody series, and the Indiana Jones movies will enjoy this historical mystery!

Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.

Pepper Basham has officially become a favorite author of mine. I have read 4 of her books so far and I have loved each one. Every book I’ve read was so much fun. There is witty banter/dialogue between the characters, such fun characters that are easy to fall in love with, and such good faith content.

The Juliet Code, which is the third book in the Frederick & Grace Mystery series, was no different and did not disappoint! It was so good to be back with Frederick and Grace uncovering a new mystery! The mystery lover in me really enjoyed the mystery in this book! And can I just say I absolutely LOVE Freddie and Grace! 😍 They have become some of my most favorite characters, and I hope we see more of them in the future! 

I highly recommend this whole series; you will not be disappointed!

The continuing adventures of Grace and Freddie shows them just trying to fit in their honeymoon between all the mysteries. This time we find them in Venice, enjoying the sites as newlyweds when they get caught up in an adventure they didn't see coming. First, I think their relationship is adorable, as Grace keeps things interesting for Freddie, and Freddie grounds her.

Freddie is coming to realize that he and Grace may not have a normal honeymoon, and maybe not a normal life. But in the beginning of these chapters, he realizes that the gift of adventure and sleuthing is the best gift he can give to Grace. It pleases her so, and he loves her so. What's a guy going to do?

Their adventure consists of a secluded rich man's island and stolen artwork which may or may not hold a hidden message to a long-buried treasure. This was another fun addition to this series, though I do admit I felt for Freddie and his dreams of a quieter life. However, Grace is happy as can be as her reading adventures are coming to life and her life is much more fascinating than a fictional book.

I was provided a copy of this novel from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and all views and opinions are my own.

“The Juliet Code” is a fun, lighthearted mystery with unique, quirky characters that are easy to love. Freddie and Grace’s witty banter and loving relationship is enjoyable, and their honeymoon takes them on a wild, unexpected adventure.

I enjoyed learning about the Juliet paintings and was curious about the thefts and deaths attached to them. The story contains wonderful elements of mystery, danger, adventure, and sweet romance. But the element of faith throughout the story is most inspiring!

It was fun visiting with Freddie, Grace in Italy and enjoyed witnessing their growth in their faith and trust as the story progressed. If you enjoy playful, faithful, romantic, mystery stories with original characters and plenty of action—no doubt you’ve found a great choice.

#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.