The Marlow Murder Club returns and does it in style!

Verity Beresford approaches Judith as her husband Oliver has gone missing after a boat trip on the Marlow Belle. Oliver is well known locally as Director of the MADS, which is the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society, but well known doesn't always equate to well liked.

I mostly enjoyed the book but felt it was a little formulaic, in that the police are very stereotyped and come across as totally incompetent and can't solve any crimes without the help of a 79 year old woman, a vicar's wife and a lady who runs a dog walking company. I know you have to suspend belief but I certainly wouldn't answer any questions they ask......

On the whole a cozy crime read and would recommend it

"This review is for an ARC received through Netgalley!"
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I recently devoured my latest instalment of "The Marlow Murder Club Series," and let me tell you, it did not disappoint me! This fourth book picks up with our beloved trio—Judith, Becks, and Suzie—who are once again trying to solve a murder mystery. The story begins with Verity, the wife of the missing Oliver, the founder of the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society, personally asking Judith for help. What initially seems like a request for help to locate her husband quickly escalates into a gripping murder investigation when Oliver's body is discovered in the river, shot with two bullets. The catch? The suspects are all part of the same drama society, making it even more complicated to sift through the act and uncover the truth.

What I particularly loved about this book is how the humour is brilliantly interwoven with the plot, keeping the reader engaged and entertained throughout. I found myself constantly guessing who among the characters could be the culprit, all while navigating the "unreliable" narratives. Though I must admit that I skimmed over some parts due to a few overly lengthy descriptions that felt a bit unnecessary, it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment of the story. I also noticed that this particular book took me a little longer to read than the previous three, but that only heightened my anticipation with each turn of the page.

The ending brought everything together neatly, delivering a satisfying conclusion that explained who was behind the crime, as well as the motives driving their actions. I genuinely felt a pang of disappointment when I realised I'd reached the end—it left me shouting "NOOOO!" and eagerly awaiting book five. The bond I've formed with our quirky amateur sleuths is undeniable, and I can't wait to see where their next adventure takes them. Overall, it was an enjoyable read that ticked all the right boxes for me!

Many thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this cozy murder mystery.

This was a fun book to read. When a man is shot while out on the Marlow Belle pleasure boat, Judith is called by the widow to help find the killer. Immediately she enlists the help of Becks and Susie. There were five guests and the captain of the boat, so not many suspects. They each had motive to kill the man, but the evidence does not work. The dead man was the director of the Marlow Dramatic Society, and Judith is asked to join in The Importance of Being Earnest, a play she had performed in in her youth. Just when the group thinks they have found the killer, it all goes sideways.

I really enjoy this series and look forward to more!

Judith Potts, Becks Starling, and Suzie Harris—with the help of DS Tanika Malik—are back on the case in Robert Thorogood’s Murder on the Marlow Belle. With three mysteries under their belts, the crime-solving trio find themselves attempting to solve the murder of a bombastic theater company founder, whose past and present are littered with subterfuge, cruelty, and betrayal.

When Oliver Beresford—a “chancer” at heart—is shot to death on a local party cruiser, the list of suspects is long. They include Oliver’s neglected wife; a wild-child Hollywood starlet with childhood ties to Marlow; members of the Marlow Amateur Dramatic Society; and the owner of the ill-fated Marlow Belle.

With Judith, a formidable septuagenarian known for her brilliant mind (and nude, cold water swims) at the helm, the crime solvers uncover decades-long secrets, lies, and betrayals that make everyone in Oliver’s orbit a suspect. The multiple plot twists and red herrings, and allusions to Shakespeare, Oscar Wilde, and Dickens, make for a fun, engaging read. Those who’ve worked with small town dramatic societies will recognize, and giggle over, the petty rivalries and intrigue.

Unlike previous Marlow Murder Club mysteries, Murder on the Marlow Belle neglects the powerful backstories that drew these characters together. Unless one has read the previous books, it’s easy to forget that Judith is a retired archeologist who writes crosswords for a living; Becks is adjusting to life as a vicar’s wife (her husband left a lucrative banking career for the church); and Suzie is a struggling dog walker who moonlights as a radio chat show host. I hope there’s a return to what made these mysteries magic in book number 5 (there appears to be, so fingers crossed). However, if you’re looking for a fun, clever, and engaging whodunnit, Murder on the Marlow Belle does not disappoint.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for an ARC of Murder on the Murder Belle. I love this series and am rooting for it to continue.

To be honest, I haven’t read any of the earlier Marlow Murder Club books, so I came to this one without much context. I was surprised to discover its premise is quite similar to another series I’d read, only to find both were developed around the same time.

A group of 6 people on a yacht, and one person dies. Everyone seems to have a motive and an opportunity to kill this person and everyone is a suspect, until someone confesses, but are they the real killer?

Perhaps it’s because I missed the first three instalments, but I struggled to connect with the main characters. Despite the author’s efforts to convey their quirks, I didn’t find them particularly compelling or well fleshed out. The supporting characters also felt underdeveloped, making it hard to truly care about the outcome or root for anyone.

The police are portrayed as largely ineffective, and the dynamic between the inspector and Judith felt a bit repetitive, with the inspector oscillating between seeking Judith’s help and trying to avoid being seen with her.
Overall, the tone and style seem more suited for a television series than a gripping murder mystery novel. However, it was an easy read and I enjoyed it overall.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The plot was imaginative and convoluted - in a good way! Reading about the characters was like catching up with old friends. It's refreshing to have books where the main protagonists are older women, who are both strong and vulnerable, but with an unshakeable bond. Within each book in the series, a little more is revealed about each one. Can't wait for the next in the series.

This is a very charming cozy mystery with likeable characters. This is the fourth book in the series and I have enjoyed them all. Judith, Suzie and Becks get involved when a local man is found murdered in the Thames after a a party on the pleasure cruiser, The Marlow Bell. All of the characters experience personal growth in this one and it ends in a cliff hanger! I already can't wait until the next one to see what happens.

Here is another case for the Marlowe Murder Club, Local theater director, Oliver Beresford, doesn't come home after a boating excursion with a celebrated actress and theater group members. The actress was a former player in the local theater group. Oliver's wife, Verity, enlists the aid of Judith Potts and her friends to find out what has happened to the missing Oliver. Let the investigative fun begin.

I discovered the Marlow series last year, after having surgery. I couldn't do much, so I downloaded a bunch of cozy mysteries and read a book a day.

In Murder on the Marlow Belle, Judith is called up on my Verity Beresford to help locate her missing husband Oliver. When Oliver is found dead, Judith, Suzie, and Becks investigate his murder, and they are warned to stay out of the way of the police, as DI Tanika Malik's job could be on the line.

The writing is a little basic, and there was very little said about the three main characters and their lives outside of the mystery at hand. (There was a little bit about Becks' family, but I found that part of the story to be pretty cliche and predicable.) I found it a little hard to believe that anyone would bother answering questions from three random ladies who have nothing to do with the police. I did enjoy the mystery though, and it kept me guessing right up until the end. This was a quick, pleasant read, and I look forward to the next installment.

Thank you netgalley and publisher for this arc.

Back in Marlow with Judith, Becks, and Suzie. Judith ends up joining a play to keep an eye on the suspects this time. As always this is an enjoyable read and it's fun to sluth with the trio. Looking forward to the next one!

Three local amateur sleuths - Judith who still swims naked in the Thames at 79, Suzie, a middle aged dog walker and part time DJ, and Becks, the local vicar’s wife, plus DI Tanika Malik who is still in hot water after the last time, are again warned to keep their nosiness away from the police investigation into the murder of the director of the local theatrical society. The victim had been on the Marlow Belle but was found in the water after having been shot twice. And so the fun and sleuthing begins again! Laughed my sox off!
I requested and received a temporary uncorrected egalley from Poisoned Pen Press via NetGalley. Pub Date Sep 16, 2025 ****review @bookbub @goodreads #LibraryThing #NetGalley #storygraph
#MurderontheMarlowBelle by @robertthorogoodwriter #MarlowMurderClubBk4 @poisonedpenpress
#closedcirclemystery #actors #cozymystery #amateursleuths #seniorsleuths #situationalhumor
#friends #secrets #lies #murder

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review "Murder on the Marlow Belle", the latest Marlow Murder Club mystery by Robert Thorogood. Having read all of the other books in the series, I was happy to receive a pre-publication copy to review.
Who killed Oliver Beresford, one of the founding members of MADS (the Marlow Amateur Dramatics Society), and why did they do it while he was on a cruise with other members of the Society, and a former member, now a Hollywood star? Judith Potts, along with her friends Suzie and Becks are on the case, but they've been officially notified not to investigate by Detective Inspector Tanika (due to a complaint regarding their previous investigation - somebody want to undermine the DI from within her own team).
Of course, the trio cannot let it be. So they set out to investigate, while attempting (sometimes sloppily) to avoid running into the police team. And what they discover only leads to more confusion. Nobody heard the two gunshots. Nobody saw Oliver's body go into the river. And everybody, it seems has a motive of some kind: his wife, who seems positively giddy now that she's taken over his director's role; his former best friend, with whom he has a love-hate-relationship (and who seems to be stalking him from his boat, anchored across from the house); other members of MADS, and Lizzie, the famous actress (but she couldn't have set the whole thing up, having arrived only that day, could she?)
Red herrings abound, and not everyone is telling the truth - as Judith, Suzie and Becks are soon to discover.
Following in the tradition of the previous books, all will be revealed. But not until the very end, and even after an arrest is made.
Recommended.

Okay, I’ll admit it—I’m a total Robert Thorogood fangirl. From his “Death in Paradise”days to every single Marlow Murder Club book, I’m hooked on his knack for spinning cozy mysteries that feel like a warm hug and a brain teaser all at once. So, when I cracked open Murder on the Marlow Belle, the fourth book in the Marlow Murder Club series, I was practically buzzing with excitement. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint! This book is like hopping back into a group chat with your favorite quirky pals—Judith, Suzie, and Becks—who are back to solve a juicy murder on a riverboat. It’s got all the Thorogood magic: twists that keep you guessing, a setting that’s practically a character itself, and a story so fun you’ll forget to check your phone.

This time, our crime-busting trio is diving into a murder aboard the Marlow Belle, where the local amateur theater group’s drama (and secrets) takes center stage. Judith, the feisty, gin-loving granny detective, is as sharp and prickly as ever, and I love how Thorogood lets her shine while showing her softer side with Suzie and Becks. Their chemistry is pure gold—think late-night gossip sessions mixed with sleuthing genius. The riverboat vibe, plus the theater group’s petty squabbles and hidden grudges, makes for a perfect puzzle that had me pointing at every character going, “You’re the killer! No, wait, you are!” Thorogood’s so good at throwing curveballs, and the big reveal? Chef’s kiss.

If you’re into cozy mysteries with heart, humor, and a side of clever, this book is for you. Thorogood’s storytelling is like catching up with old friends over a pint, except someone’s been murdered and you’re loving every minute of figuring out whodunit. I could read his books forever, and this one’s another gem in the Marlow series. Grab it, clear your day, and maybe keep some snacks handy—you’re not putting this down till the last page.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Poison Pen Press, and Robert Thorogood for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

This whodunnit had me up all night, trying to guess who the killer was. Loved the setting of the Drama Society in the small town with all the curious onlooker and mini politics! The amateur detectives were a delight, as was the harassed police detective. The author has crafted the mystery very skilfully. The multiple suspects, motives, red herrings - I had great fun reading. Will go back and read the earlier ones too!

Thanks for the ARC Poisoned Pen Press!! I have enjoyed every book in this series so far, and the Marlow Belle did not disappoint. Overall this book had less thinking whiskey, and more amateur actors than the previous books, but I like amateur actors, and have my own whiskey, so kind of a non-issue. I'm not sure what else to say about the book without risking spoilers, so if you want to know what's up in Morlow, you're just going to have to read it. Really, I think you should.

This series is great. I loved having a new installment to relax into like a cozy couch in a cafe. Judith, Becks, and Suzie are such distinct people, and I enjoy spending time with them. In this book, I especially loved how there was assigned reading, and Judith had read the material twice, Becks had read and highlighted and annotated, and Suzie hadn't gotten to chapter 3. I knew this about them already, yet it felt so satisfying to have it confirmed that these women would be the different readers in a book club just like the rest of us.

This book's mystery is better than that of Queen of Poisons, but not quite as good as that of Marlow Murder Club or Death Comes to Marlow. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey regardless. I will continue to recommend this series for its coziness and clever characters. I am so glad I got to read this one early - I have been checking back for more from this series every month! The length of these books is perfect. The mysteries compel readers to keep turning pages. And these three amateur detectives and DI Malik are the cream of the crop.

I will definitely preorder the next book!

I absolutely love sitting down in the summer and reading a Marlow Murder Club book. This book was another fun mystery and I had a hard time figuring out who done it. Please continue writing more, I will always recommend.

It would appear I am in "cliff-hanger-summer" as this is the 3rd or 4th book that has been a tad open ended - which is not something I was expecting from Murder on the Marlow Belle, as the other entries into this series have had a solid beginning-middle-end storyline. Not that this didn't, the mystery wraps up rather nicely, but now I'm itching to read the next installment.

You can tell that Thorogood has a good time with these characters and a group of actors was a good choice for the whodunnit this time around. Very appropriate for the drama of it all, and I can say I didn't see the reveal coming (in fact, my guess was dead wrong).

I do wish Thorogood could find a way for Judith, Suzie & Becks to work WITH Tanika rather than around her. Sometimes they're in sometimes they're out, personally the former works better for me, and I hope that book 5 has them back in the fold with Tanika - it solidifies the story a bit more, at least for me.

This is book 4 of the Marlow Murder Club Series. Judith, Becks, and Suzie are back solving crimes. Book has the same vibes and the previous one, old friends, classic whodunit, and a good twist you expect but still don't see coming.

A wonderful read!
This novel drew me in from the very first page and kept me hooked until the end. The characters were vibrant and relatable, the writing was engaging, and the story had just the right balance of heart and humor. Highly recommend!
Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.