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Literary Pub Mystery #4
Claret and Present Danger
When a Renaissance Faire visits the small town of Shady Creek, Vermont, amateur sleuth and proprietor of bookish theme pub The Inkwell, Sadie Coleman, finds deadly happenings stick around like red wine stains on white tunics in the fourth Literary Pub Mystery by USA Today bestselling author Sarah Fox.
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire and Circus has rolled into town, attracting locals who can’t wait to spend a few summer days lost in a whimsical world of all-knowing fortune tellers and daring acrobats. Well-read pub owner Sadie Coleman is swept up in the magic herself when she serves drinks to the faire’s resident wizard, the shamelessly brazen illusionist Ozzie Stone, and scores two tickets to his opening performance.
Sadie has no complaints about indulging in a free show with her new beau, craft brewery owner Grayson Blake. But while Ozzie is an instant crowd pleaser, the real surprise comes when he collapses in the middle of his set. It’s not part of the act—Ozzie is dead, seemingly poisoned by someone who wasn’t clowning around about writing the roguish showman’s final chapter.
The terrifying situation intensifies when the police eye one of Sadie’s employees, last seen caught in a suspicious fist fight at the fairground. With so much at stake, Sadie must strain through a suspect list longer than her cocktail menu to find the real knave of a killer. But when another performer is murdered, it becomes clear that bringing the mixed-up murderer to justice will be about as dangerous as walking the high wire after happy hour…
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire and Circus has rolled into town, attracting locals who can’t wait to spend a few summer days lost in a whimsical world of all-knowing fortune tellers and daring acrobats. Well-read pub owner Sadie Coleman is swept up in the magic herself when she serves drinks to the faire’s resident wizard, the shamelessly brazen illusionist Ozzie Stone, and scores two tickets to his opening performance.
Sadie has no complaints about indulging in a free show with her new beau, craft brewery owner Grayson Blake. But while Ozzie is an instant crowd pleaser, the real surprise comes when he collapses in the middle of his set. It’s not part of the act—Ozzie is dead, seemingly poisoned by someone who wasn’t clowning around about writing the roguish showman’s final chapter.
The terrifying situation intensifies when the police eye one of Sadie’s employees, last seen caught in a suspicious fist fight at the fairground. With so much at stake, Sadie must strain through a suspect list longer than her cocktail menu to find the real knave of a killer. But when another performer is murdered, it becomes clear that bringing the mixed-up murderer to justice will be about as dangerous as walking the high wire after happy hour…
352 pages, Hardcover
Published November 30, 2021
About the author
Sarah Fox
19 books667 followersSarah Fox, writer of cozy mysteries, was born and raised in Vancouver, British Columbia, where she developed a love for mysteries at a young age. When not writing novels or working as a legal writer she is often reading her way through a stack of books or spending time outdoors with her English Springer Spaniel.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
Sarah is the author of the Literary Pub Mysteries, the Pancake House Mysteries, and the Music Lover's Mysteries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
July 16, 2021
A Renaissance Faire has come to the charming town of Shady Creek, VT. Famed illusionist, Ozzie Stone, headlines the show with sold out seating. Protagonist, Sadie Coleman, owner of the Inkwell, a literary pub; is spending time at the faire with her friend Shontelle, and her daughter, Kiandra. Sadie gets to know several of the Ren Faire workers, and she and boyfriend, Grayson, attend Ozzie’s show.
A shocking murder, and the arrest of one of the Inkwell employees draw Sadie and Grayson into the crime investigation. There is a plethora of suspects around who wanted to, and had the means and opportunity to kill the victim. Author Fox pens a satisfying whodunnit for fans of this cozy mystery series. Delicious recipes included.
I honestly reviewed an unedited digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
A shocking murder, and the arrest of one of the Inkwell employees draw Sadie and Grayson into the crime investigation. There is a plethora of suspects around who wanted to, and had the means and opportunity to kill the victim. Author Fox pens a satisfying whodunnit for fans of this cozy mystery series. Delicious recipes included.
I honestly reviewed an unedited digital arc provided by NetGalley and Kensington Publishing. All opinions are my own.
November 1, 2021
This is the fourth book in the literary pub mystery series and it did not disappoint me! I love anything with a literary theme just a little extra and this book mixes that with food and drinks at the pub which I love. I liked the mystery but did feel like the parts with the love interest were a little forced and could have been a little smoother. The Renaissance Festival has come to town with some extras like acrobats and magicians. The fair was pretty cool sounding although I would have liked more genuine Renaissance Faire shout outs. The main illusionist is murdered and of course one of Sadie’s friend sis accused of the crime. Obviously this means she has to do her own investigating and hopefully she can figure it out before the killer decides she’s too close for comfort. There was mention of Sadie’s mother coming to visit in the near future and I’m kind of hoping he next book is about her visit!
October 8, 2021
This is the fourth book in this series. All of them have been enjoyable, but not amazing. I love the titles and keep coming back to the characters. This mystery was interesting; it followed a similar formula to the others.
The murder centered on a Renaissance Faire and Circus that had come to town. I found this poorly done. The renaissance Faire featured acrobats, magicians, a fortune teller and mermaids on top of typical Renaissance attractions. Why? It seemed unnecessarily confusing.
The characters seemed a little flat this time around too. There was little to no character building and/or change.
One very helpful thing about the novels in this series is that they are stand alone mysteries. You do not have to read them in order. The only thing that changes is the protagonists relationship. Knowing about her or her love interest adds to the story but isn't the main part, so you won't feel like you're missing something. I would have preferred the relationship be toned down in this novel. It seemed forced and the attraction and chemistry was non-existent, but it got a lot of page time.
One thing that is not central to the story but did really bother me was the focus on whether or not the protagonist, Sadie, was sleeping with her boyfriend. it becomes more of a big deal than it needed to be. The author takes multiple occasions to shame Sadie (via other characters) or have Sadie act guilty and nearly break the fourth wall to remind herself that she "hasn't done anything wrong". Sadie does not sleep with her boyfriend. There is no smut in this book. It's not that kind of series. Yet, another inconsequential character that gets page time for no reason whatsoever, makes a big deal, more than once, that Sadie falls asleep at her boyfriend's house. Then to make it worse, Sadie doesn't shrug off the opinion, because she hasn't done anything, she talks to herself and other characters about how she didn't do anything and she's still "good". It's weird. It's unnecessary. It's very traditional in a novel that is not framed as traditional. Sadie's whole relationship with her boyfriend feels forced and annoying. He's annoying. I didn't enjoy reading about it.
I like cozy mysteries. I like that they are easy reads, but this one was just bogged down by so much weird relationship angst. Sadie is supposed to be a modern 30 year old woman who is running her own pub. She sounded like an angsty, inexperienced teenager. She has not sounded like that in previous novels in this series.
The mystery ended up unsurprising, but I didn't guess the villain. The motivation wasn't bad and the series of events leading to the mystery being solved was well done too.
I would have enjoyed this so much more if there wasn't so much forced relationship angst added in.
The murder centered on a Renaissance Faire and Circus that had come to town. I found this poorly done. The renaissance Faire featured acrobats, magicians, a fortune teller and mermaids on top of typical Renaissance attractions. Why? It seemed unnecessarily confusing.
The characters seemed a little flat this time around too. There was little to no character building and/or change.
One very helpful thing about the novels in this series is that they are stand alone mysteries. You do not have to read them in order. The only thing that changes is the protagonists relationship. Knowing about her or her love interest adds to the story but isn't the main part, so you won't feel like you're missing something. I would have preferred the relationship be toned down in this novel. It seemed forced and the attraction and chemistry was non-existent, but it got a lot of page time.
One thing that is not central to the story but did really bother me was the focus on whether or not the protagonist, Sadie, was sleeping with her boyfriend. it becomes more of a big deal than it needed to be. The author takes multiple occasions to shame Sadie (via other characters) or have Sadie act guilty and nearly break the fourth wall to remind herself that she "hasn't done anything wrong". Sadie does not sleep with her boyfriend. There is no smut in this book. It's not that kind of series. Yet, another inconsequential character that gets page time for no reason whatsoever, makes a big deal, more than once, that Sadie falls asleep at her boyfriend's house. Then to make it worse, Sadie doesn't shrug off the opinion, because she hasn't done anything, she talks to herself and other characters about how she didn't do anything and she's still "good". It's weird. It's unnecessary. It's very traditional in a novel that is not framed as traditional. Sadie's whole relationship with her boyfriend feels forced and annoying. He's annoying. I didn't enjoy reading about it.
I like cozy mysteries. I like that they are easy reads, but this one was just bogged down by so much weird relationship angst. Sadie is supposed to be a modern 30 year old woman who is running her own pub. She sounded like an angsty, inexperienced teenager. She has not sounded like that in previous novels in this series.
The mystery ended up unsurprising, but I didn't guess the villain. The motivation wasn't bad and the series of events leading to the mystery being solved was well done too.
I would have enjoyed this so much more if there wasn't so much forced relationship angst added in.
July 29, 2021
Claret and Present Danger by Sarah Fox is book four in the Literary Pub series.
A smoothly paced story that wove twists, suspects, red herrings and a little adventure for Sadie as she tries to help a friend and employee who is a suspect in a murder investigation. Ms. Fox also upped the romance between Sadie and Grayson in this one but it didn't overshadow the mystery. Ms. Fox's descriptive writing makes the small town of Shady Creek, VT and the characters come to life. An enjoyable read that kept me turning the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
A smoothly paced story that wove twists, suspects, red herrings and a little adventure for Sadie as she tries to help a friend and employee who is a suspect in a murder investigation. Ms. Fox also upped the romance between Sadie and Grayson in this one but it didn't overshadow the mystery. Ms. Fox's descriptive writing makes the small town of Shady Creek, VT and the characters come to life. An enjoyable read that kept me turning the pages.
I voluntarily reviewed a digital Advance Reader Copy of this book from Kensington Books via NetGalley. All of the above opinions are my own.
December 27, 2021
Dollycas’s Thoughts
Readers arrive in Shady Creek, Vermont just in time to visit the Trueheart Renaissance Faire and Circus. Not your typical Faire or Circus but a nice mix-up of the two. Under the big top, you will find aerial acrobats and an illusionist. Around the grounds, you will find a fortune teller and mermaids in a pool as well as several little shops selling food and faire attire. Literary Pub owner, Sadie Coleman, is happy about all the business the event has brought in. She is excited when illusionist Ozzie Stone gives her two tickets to his sold-out performance.
Sadie has visited the park to check out the faire with a friend but it is her beau, Craft brewery owner, Grayson Blake who she takes to see Ozzie Stone. The show starts out with some interesting illusions but after a fantastic trick, Mr. Stone collapses on the stage. Soon thereafter we learn that Ozzie Stone is dead. Some black magic must have taken place because the man was definitely murdered and the method of death is poison.
The park is full of suspects but when one of Sadie’s employees is arrested she knows she has to get involved. When another performer is killed she presses even harder to find the killer. The killer soon has Sadie in their sights too.
I said in a previous review that the Inkwell Pub run by Sadie Coleman would be my “happy place” and with each installment of this series that becomes more cemented in my mind. In fact the whole town of Shady Creek sounds like a wonderful place to live, sans the murders, of course. Ms. Fox has painted vivid pictures in my mind of every place Sadie goes since this series began. They are images that stick with me the whole year through so when I open the new book it feels so comfortable.
Sadie and Grayson finally get to spend more time together so there is a little more romance in this book and I loved it. They do seem to be the perfect couple and I really enjoyed how they worked together when Sadie had an idea she just had to follow.
With Damien in jail and Sadie needing to investigate a new employee is added and she fits right in. Again, Aunt Gilda keeps her ears open at the beauty shop and is around to give Sadie advice especially when she learns of someone coming for a visit.
All the core characters are nicely developed. The supporting cast of friends, employees and customers bring so much to the story and they really fill the pub up for special events.
Ms. Fox also introduces a bunch of new characters with the faire and circus in town but meet some new residents of Shady Creek too. I really enjoyed the mural painting subplot and the mystery it presented.
The author really put forth a complicated mystery. There are a ton of clues to work through and suspects to eliminate because the victim turned out to be quite a rogue. I must say I was totally shocked by the reveal of the killer and the motive because l was totally focused on the wrong things. I do love when I am surprised because that means the author plotted out a great mystery and I fell for every twist she wanted me to and some of them pushed me right to the edge of my seat.
Claret and Present Danger took me back to a place I love with characters I would want to be friends with. It has not one but two mysteries, a blooming romance, and the perfect amount of humor. Every book in this series has been a Perfect Escape and this one is no exception. I was delightfully entertained from page one. One of the subplots started in this book has built up my anticipation for the next book even more the normal so I truly can’t wait for book #5.
Readers arrive in Shady Creek, Vermont just in time to visit the Trueheart Renaissance Faire and Circus. Not your typical Faire or Circus but a nice mix-up of the two. Under the big top, you will find aerial acrobats and an illusionist. Around the grounds, you will find a fortune teller and mermaids in a pool as well as several little shops selling food and faire attire. Literary Pub owner, Sadie Coleman, is happy about all the business the event has brought in. She is excited when illusionist Ozzie Stone gives her two tickets to his sold-out performance.
Sadie has visited the park to check out the faire with a friend but it is her beau, Craft brewery owner, Grayson Blake who she takes to see Ozzie Stone. The show starts out with some interesting illusions but after a fantastic trick, Mr. Stone collapses on the stage. Soon thereafter we learn that Ozzie Stone is dead. Some black magic must have taken place because the man was definitely murdered and the method of death is poison.
The park is full of suspects but when one of Sadie’s employees is arrested she knows she has to get involved. When another performer is killed she presses even harder to find the killer. The killer soon has Sadie in their sights too.
I said in a previous review that the Inkwell Pub run by Sadie Coleman would be my “happy place” and with each installment of this series that becomes more cemented in my mind. In fact the whole town of Shady Creek sounds like a wonderful place to live, sans the murders, of course. Ms. Fox has painted vivid pictures in my mind of every place Sadie goes since this series began. They are images that stick with me the whole year through so when I open the new book it feels so comfortable.
Sadie and Grayson finally get to spend more time together so there is a little more romance in this book and I loved it. They do seem to be the perfect couple and I really enjoyed how they worked together when Sadie had an idea she just had to follow.
With Damien in jail and Sadie needing to investigate a new employee is added and she fits right in. Again, Aunt Gilda keeps her ears open at the beauty shop and is around to give Sadie advice especially when she learns of someone coming for a visit.
All the core characters are nicely developed. The supporting cast of friends, employees and customers bring so much to the story and they really fill the pub up for special events.
Ms. Fox also introduces a bunch of new characters with the faire and circus in town but meet some new residents of Shady Creek too. I really enjoyed the mural painting subplot and the mystery it presented.
The author really put forth a complicated mystery. There are a ton of clues to work through and suspects to eliminate because the victim turned out to be quite a rogue. I must say I was totally shocked by the reveal of the killer and the motive because l was totally focused on the wrong things. I do love when I am surprised because that means the author plotted out a great mystery and I fell for every twist she wanted me to and some of them pushed me right to the edge of my seat.
Claret and Present Danger took me back to a place I love with characters I would want to be friends with. It has not one but two mysteries, a blooming romance, and the perfect amount of humor. Every book in this series has been a Perfect Escape and this one is no exception. I was delightfully entertained from page one. One of the subplots started in this book has built up my anticipation for the next book even more the normal so I truly can’t wait for book #5.
July 28, 2022
With a Renaissance Faire in town, the 4th book in the literary pub mystery delves into murder, betrayal, romance, and cocktails. The Faire features a famous illusionist named Ozzie Stone who Sadie wins tickets to his show. During the show he drops dead and unfortunately one of her employees, Dylan, is accused of the crime. Now as I’ve mentioned in a prior review, one of the failing of this series over the other series by Ms. Fox I’ve read, is that not much I’d invested into the secondary characters at the pub. I was not as invested in Dylan being accused because I was not as invested in his character. There was not much development of his character over the past three books to get me there or get Sadie’s concerns Other than he’s an employee and a single dad of two teen girls. I hope that changes in future books.
Now Sadie works hard to prove Dylan’s innocence. There’s a host of suspect because Ozzie was not a nice person. Soon there’s a second murder of an equally detestable victim (who was a suspect) and the red herrings continue.
In the meantime, Sadie and Grayson are trying to spend more time together despite their busy schedules. Their relationship moves to another level despite Sadie’s worries and fears. The romantic part of the book can be a bit flat at times and maybe will improve in future books.
Overall, the mystery itself was good,
Now Sadie works hard to prove Dylan’s innocence. There’s a host of suspect because Ozzie was not a nice person. Soon there’s a second murder of an equally detestable victim (who was a suspect) and the red herrings continue.
In the meantime, Sadie and Grayson are trying to spend more time together despite their busy schedules. Their relationship moves to another level despite Sadie’s worries and fears. The romantic part of the book can be a bit flat at times and maybe will improve in future books.
Overall, the mystery itself was good,
July 16, 2021
Claret and Present Danger is the newest addition to this literary pub series by Sarah Fox.
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire is in town and Sadie Coleman is looking forward to attending with her new beau Grayson.
What Sadie doesn't expect is to witness a sudden death, and one of her employees being the main suspect.
I'm a huge fan of this author, and this series is one of my favorites. I always enjoy reading the books, and the literary food and drink names always make me chuckle.
This is a great series that I would recommend to any cozy mystery reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ClaretandPresentDanger #NetGalley
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire is in town and Sadie Coleman is looking forward to attending with her new beau Grayson.
What Sadie doesn't expect is to witness a sudden death, and one of her employees being the main suspect.
I'm a huge fan of this author, and this series is one of my favorites. I always enjoy reading the books, and the literary food and drink names always make me chuckle.
This is a great series that I would recommend to any cozy mystery reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ClaretandPresentDanger #NetGalley
August 19, 2021
Claret and Present Danger is the fourth book in the Literary Pub Mystery series by author Sarah Fox. I love the premise of this series - a literary pub with food and drinks a play on book titles or characters. This time around, the Renaissance Faire has rolled into Shady, Vermont but unfortunately, the fun doesn't last. Sadie Coleman is enjoying a chance to see Ozzie Stone, the headlining illusionist when he suddenly dies on stage during his performance. Yes, it's murder and one of Sadie's employees is the prime suspect. I love that Sadie owns the fact that she is considered nosy. She has the best intention to stay safe but things don't always go her way. Her relationship with Grayson is moving along nicely and I also like that he doesn't try to talk her out of sleuthing but joins her to help keep her safe.
There are plenty of suspects to choose from as the victim was definitely no well-liked by the other performers at the Faire. Ms. Fox crafts a well-plotted mystery that takes her readers inside the Renaissance Faire as Sadie attempts to clear her employee of murder charges. There are a lot of clues for the reader to sift through and in the end, the author wraps up the mystery with a very satisfying conclusion.
The author includes some drink and food recipes at the end of the book. This is a very entertaining series and I will be back for future installments.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy which was provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
There are plenty of suspects to choose from as the victim was definitely no well-liked by the other performers at the Faire. Ms. Fox crafts a well-plotted mystery that takes her readers inside the Renaissance Faire as Sadie attempts to clear her employee of murder charges. There are a lot of clues for the reader to sift through and in the end, the author wraps up the mystery with a very satisfying conclusion.
The author includes some drink and food recipes at the end of the book. This is a very entertaining series and I will be back for future installments.
I voluntarily read a digital advanced reader copy which was provided to me by the publisher, Kensington, through NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
July 16, 2021
Claret and Present Danger is the newest addition to this literary pub series by Sarah Fox.
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire is in town and Sadie Coleman is looking forward to attending with her new beau Grayson.
What Sadie doesn't expect is to witness a sudden death, and one of her employees being the main suspect.
I'm a huge fan of this author, and this series is one of my favorites. I always enjoy reading the books, and the literary food and drink names always make me chuckle.
This is a great series that I would recommend to any cozy mystery reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ClaretandPresentDanger #NetGalley
The Trueheart Renaissance Faire is in town and Sadie Coleman is looking forward to attending with her new beau Grayson.
What Sadie doesn't expect is to witness a sudden death, and one of her employees being the main suspect.
I'm a huge fan of this author, and this series is one of my favorites. I always enjoy reading the books, and the literary food and drink names always make me chuckle.
This is a great series that I would recommend to any cozy mystery reader.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for selecting me to read an advanced copy of this book.
#ClaretandPresentDanger #NetGalley
November 30, 2021
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER, the fourth Literary Pub Mystery by Sarah Fox, is bursting with bookish charm, a Renaissance Faire, and murder. It is both entertaining and a challenging puzzle to solve.
It is the height of summer in Shady, Vermont, and the town is electrified about the Ren Faire coming to town. Pub owner Sadie Coleman is excited to see the faire’s headliner illusionist Ozzie Stone but fails to anticipate his murder right in the middle of his show. When her employee Damian falls under police suspicion, Sadie puts on her investigative hat to get to the bottom of the mystery even as the body count rises.
I adore Sadie’s literary themed pub and can see myself spending plenty of time there. I also like Sadie very much; she admits she is nosy (just do not call her a Nosy Parker) and, though she never seeks out trouble, trouble finds her. She is relatable in her insecurities, but I am pleased to see her romantic relationship with Grayson progress within these pages. Her friends, family, employees, and customers provide lots of variety to make the town come alive. The Faire theme is fun and a nice backdrop to the mystery. There are several suspects and victims with lots of clues for Sadie to work through. I confess that I did not figure out the killer’s motives before the big reveal. I love it when the mystery is a challenge.
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER is a smart, engaging read sure to please any cozy reader, especially those who like bookish and food themes. I cannot wait to see what Sadie gets up to next. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC of title from the author and Kensington Books and voluntarily shared my thoughts and opinions here.
It is the height of summer in Shady, Vermont, and the town is electrified about the Ren Faire coming to town. Pub owner Sadie Coleman is excited to see the faire’s headliner illusionist Ozzie Stone but fails to anticipate his murder right in the middle of his show. When her employee Damian falls under police suspicion, Sadie puts on her investigative hat to get to the bottom of the mystery even as the body count rises.
I adore Sadie’s literary themed pub and can see myself spending plenty of time there. I also like Sadie very much; she admits she is nosy (just do not call her a Nosy Parker) and, though she never seeks out trouble, trouble finds her. She is relatable in her insecurities, but I am pleased to see her romantic relationship with Grayson progress within these pages. Her friends, family, employees, and customers provide lots of variety to make the town come alive. The Faire theme is fun and a nice backdrop to the mystery. There are several suspects and victims with lots of clues for Sadie to work through. I confess that I did not figure out the killer’s motives before the big reveal. I love it when the mystery is a challenge.
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER is a smart, engaging read sure to please any cozy reader, especially those who like bookish and food themes. I cannot wait to see what Sadie gets up to next. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC of title from the author and Kensington Books and voluntarily shared my thoughts and opinions here.
December 11, 2021
I just got done read book #4 Claret and Present Danger series Literary Pub Mystery by: Sarah Fox gets 1 billion gold stars. You have Sadie Coleman Pub Owner / Mystery Lover ( Agatha Christy ) and she is a sleuth that can see wants not there put the pieces together to find out the truth. In this book Sadie goes to a Renaissance Fair but she get more then she bargained for with 2 murders and one attempted murder; one of her employees charged with murder of one of the murders. She needs to find out fast while she and Gregory try telling one another how they feel about each other; before Sadie is the next one to be murdered.
December 30, 2021
When the Renaissance Faire comes to town, Sadie and her friends look forward to seeing everything, especially the headline act of the illusionist Ozzie Stone. But when Ozzie dies in front of Sadie, the faire becomes a crime scene. Sadie’s employee, Damien, is accused of murder. Of course, she can’t leave it to the police to find the real killer and sets out to prove that Damien is innocent. Unfortunately, Sadie’s literary pub, The Inkwell, takes a backseat in proving the police have the wrong man in Claret and Present Danger.
There are quite a few suspects, most of them members of the faires group, but there are townspeople that are suspects, not just Damien, who works at The Inkwell. Motives are difficult to figure out until you realize that Ozzie Stone was not a good person. He was a ladies’ man who took advantage of any female he could lure to his side and use until he tired of her or someone else came along. It’s no wonder someone decided to end his life.
Evidence isn’t always what it seems, and Sadie finds that at times there are too many clues pointing to Damien, even though she knows he isn’t a killer. The cast of supporting characters adds action and interest to this book and keeps the reader involved. The Inkwell is present but not the main focus of the story. The faire is where all the action is and where Sadie finds herself spending far too much time. The killer is no surprise, but most readers will need to finish the book to understand the motive.
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning. However, Claret and Present Danger isn’t as strong as other installments. Although entertaining, this book seems to be missing that special spark that makes Sadie, the Inkwell Pub crowd, and the sub-characters fun and good company. The faire is a good setting. The action moves the story along nicely with few gaps. Most of the characters are easy to like. However, I took issue with the outdated notion that a woman can’t spend the night with a man without people gossiping. Also that the woman would feel a need to be “good.” The character is an adult, past the age of worrying about what neighbors might think about her relationship with a man. Yet Sadie seems to spend too much time concerned about what neighbors or friends might think and not enough time building a future with the man she is supposed to love. All of the above said this is still a good cozy that will appeal to readers.
There are quite a few suspects, most of them members of the faires group, but there are townspeople that are suspects, not just Damien, who works at The Inkwell. Motives are difficult to figure out until you realize that Ozzie Stone was not a good person. He was a ladies’ man who took advantage of any female he could lure to his side and use until he tired of her or someone else came along. It’s no wonder someone decided to end his life.
Evidence isn’t always what it seems, and Sadie finds that at times there are too many clues pointing to Damien, even though she knows he isn’t a killer. The cast of supporting characters adds action and interest to this book and keeps the reader involved. The Inkwell is present but not the main focus of the story. The faire is where all the action is and where Sadie finds herself spending far too much time. The killer is no surprise, but most readers will need to finish the book to understand the motive.
I have enjoyed this series from the beginning. However, Claret and Present Danger isn’t as strong as other installments. Although entertaining, this book seems to be missing that special spark that makes Sadie, the Inkwell Pub crowd, and the sub-characters fun and good company. The faire is a good setting. The action moves the story along nicely with few gaps. Most of the characters are easy to like. However, I took issue with the outdated notion that a woman can’t spend the night with a man without people gossiping. Also that the woman would feel a need to be “good.” The character is an adult, past the age of worrying about what neighbors might think about her relationship with a man. Yet Sadie seems to spend too much time concerned about what neighbors or friends might think and not enough time building a future with the man she is supposed to love. All of the above said this is still a good cozy that will appeal to readers.
January 10, 2022
This is always an entertaining series. I love the combination of literary themed food and drinks and mystery. I love that she hosts other book clubs in her pub besides just mystery clubs. While I'm not one for Ren Faires, this one sounded fun and interesting. The book was a quick, fun read. And the food and drink descriptions were mouth-watering.
December 28, 2021
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER by Sarah Fox
The Fourth Literary Pub Mystery
It's summer in Shady Creek, Vermont and business is booming for pub owner Sadie Coleman. Not only have residents taken a shine to her literary themed business, but tourists are coming in droves, especially since a Renaissance Faire and Circus has come to town. Attractive, but arrogant, magician Ozzie Stone is bringing in the crowds, but he's not making his fellow faire folk happy. In the midst of his performance Ozzie collapses. Someone has killed the flirtatious illusionist. When Sadie's bartender is arrested for the murder she knows no matter how busy things are at the Inkwell she'll make time to investigate and lead police to the real killer.
A Renaissance Faire is the perfect setting for a mystery. Much of the magic and enchantment is just a facade and the truth behind the scenes can me mundane, or even worse. Ugly truths can be hidden and Sadie is bound and determined to uncover them on behalf of her friend and employee. I like how Sadie slowly investigated while keeping things running at her pub.
Sadie is growing and I enjoy seeing her relationship with Grayson develop and blossom. I like the rest of the characters as well and wouldn't mind spending time with them in their quaint Vermont village.
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER is a smart well crafted mystery that invigorates the mind as it touches the heart.
The Fourth Literary Pub Mystery
It's summer in Shady Creek, Vermont and business is booming for pub owner Sadie Coleman. Not only have residents taken a shine to her literary themed business, but tourists are coming in droves, especially since a Renaissance Faire and Circus has come to town. Attractive, but arrogant, magician Ozzie Stone is bringing in the crowds, but he's not making his fellow faire folk happy. In the midst of his performance Ozzie collapses. Someone has killed the flirtatious illusionist. When Sadie's bartender is arrested for the murder she knows no matter how busy things are at the Inkwell she'll make time to investigate and lead police to the real killer.
A Renaissance Faire is the perfect setting for a mystery. Much of the magic and enchantment is just a facade and the truth behind the scenes can me mundane, or even worse. Ugly truths can be hidden and Sadie is bound and determined to uncover them on behalf of her friend and employee. I like how Sadie slowly investigated while keeping things running at her pub.
Sadie is growing and I enjoy seeing her relationship with Grayson develop and blossom. I like the rest of the characters as well and wouldn't mind spending time with them in their quaint Vermont village.
CLARET AND PRESENT DANGER is a smart well crafted mystery that invigorates the mind as it touches the heart.
November 25, 2021
It was great to visit Shady Creek, VT in the summer during the Renaissance Faire. While working on clearing her employee of the latest murder, Sadie and Grayson got even closer. I loved that he gets her and her need to be nosy, but he's still sweet and protective while giving her space. I love how things had developed between them by the end of the book! And they both had enough employees now that they could take off for little bits of time together without feeling too guilty about it.
I had a feeling I knew whodunit when the book was fairly close to being done, but I didn't really have the why. The showdown was exciting with an even better takedown. I only wish these books came out more than once a year, because now I'm excited to read the next book. I know Sadie's mom is planning a visit. All I can say is she'd better like Grayson as much as everyone else does, lol.
This book releases next Tuesday, November 30. I really think this one was the best so far. All the characters now seem like old friends to me even though I'm sure we'll continue learning new stuff about them throughout the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher Kensington via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
I had a feeling I knew whodunit when the book was fairly close to being done, but I didn't really have the why. The showdown was exciting with an even better takedown. I only wish these books came out more than once a year, because now I'm excited to read the next book. I know Sadie's mom is planning a visit. All I can say is she'd better like Grayson as much as everyone else does, lol.
This book releases next Tuesday, November 30. I really think this one was the best so far. All the characters now seem like old friends to me even though I'm sure we'll continue learning new stuff about them throughout the series.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher Kensington via NetGalley, and my opinions are my own.
September 23, 2024
I found Sarah Fox through her chocolate series and enjoyed them, so I started looking for other things she had written. I so love the idea of a literary pub and have been reading the series between other books I needed to get to. In this fourth book, Sadie is feeling comfortable with her business, employees, and her relationships with Grayson. She has made friends and is enjoying the Trueheart Renaissance Fair that is town, with her friend Shontelle, when they overhear some interesting conversations between some of the performers. The Illusionist looks very interesting, and Sadie would love to see the show, but the tickets are sold out. When Ozzie Stone, the mainliner, comes to the Pub, he gives her two complimentary tickets. Unfortunately, all this does is put Sadie and Grayson ringside when Ozzie collapses in the middle of his performance and then passes. When it is determined he was posioned, and one of Sadie's employees is the main suspect, you know Sadie will not rest until Damien is cleared.
November 4, 2021
Very good book! The Renaissance Faire has come to Shady Creek and Sadie is excited to check things out. When Sadie and her boyfriend, Grayson, attend Ozzie the illusionist's show, Ozzie drops dead in the middle of things. It is later determined that Ozzie was murdered and Sadie's employee, Damien, is a prime suspect. Sadie knows that Damien isn't a killer and sets out to find the real killer. Another faire worker is murdered and now Sadie needs to find out if there is one killer or two. I loved the theme of the Renaissance Faire and trying to puzzle out who the killer was. Sadie's pub sounds fascinating with its literary-themed food and drink. I can't wait to see what's next for Sadie and Grayson!
October 30, 2021
This is the 4th Literary Pub Mystery. I enjoy this series as each one is a stand alone and you do not have to read the entire series or in order to understand the charcters. Thank you to the publisher and to Net Galley.
This mystery centers around a Renaissance Fair that Sadie, Greyson and friends attend. A brutal murder occurs and Sadie is on the case. Greyson seems to be a center of agnst for Sadie in this book. The author included a lot of discussion of Sadie being shamed for wanting to sleep with her boyfriend which is very antiquated and distracted from the mystery. The mystery itself was interesting to conclusion and the charcters enjoyable.
This mystery centers around a Renaissance Fair that Sadie, Greyson and friends attend. A brutal murder occurs and Sadie is on the case. Greyson seems to be a center of agnst for Sadie in this book. The author included a lot of discussion of Sadie being shamed for wanting to sleep with her boyfriend which is very antiquated and distracted from the mystery. The mystery itself was interesting to conclusion and the charcters enjoyable.
November 28, 2021
Claret and Present Danger by Sarah Fox is the Fourth Book in the Literary Pub series.
I love this series set in Shady Creek, VT. I really like how the romance between Saide and Grayson is moving along. I also like that he lets her do her thing and the romance doesn't take over of the mystery.
This is a perfectly paced mystery where Sadie is trying to help her friend/employee who is the prime suspect in a murder.
The writing is fantastic with well written characters and a fantastic perfectly paced plot with twists and red herrings. I didn't guess who the killer was until it was revealed.
Highly recommend this book and all books in this fantastic series!
I love this series set in Shady Creek, VT. I really like how the romance between Saide and Grayson is moving along. I also like that he lets her do her thing and the romance doesn't take over of the mystery.
This is a perfectly paced mystery where Sadie is trying to help her friend/employee who is the prime suspect in a murder.
The writing is fantastic with well written characters and a fantastic perfectly paced plot with twists and red herrings. I didn't guess who the killer was until it was revealed.
Highly recommend this book and all books in this fantastic series!
April 2, 2022
The renaissance and faire has rolled in and Sadie is enjoying the festival with her friends and taking time away from her pub. She watches the acrobatics and jugglers, etc. and takes in the magic. Later, the well known magician, Ozzie, comes into her Pub and she scores two tickets to his soled out show. When her boyfriend, Grayson, and she attends the magician suddenly falls down after one of his stunts. Later he was found to have been murdered. One of her employees is later taken into custody and she knows for certain that it was not him. So, she and Grayson, try to find out who did this and unfortunately a few more incidents happen. The author did good job because we do not find out till near the end who the real murdered was and why.
August 2, 2021
A literary pub means having both cocktails and mocktails with very punny names. The pub owner is the snoopy sleuth and her boyfriend is a brewer and former PI. The publisher's blurb does a good job without giving anything away, the characters are really clear and engaging, and there are plenty of plot twists and red herrings. I thought it was great, and I think that it works well as a stand alone because the author explains whatever is needed.
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
I requested and received a free ebook copy from Kensington Books via NetGalley. Thank you!
January 4, 2022
Pub-keeper Sadie is as fascinated as anyone else in town when the Renaissance Faire comes to town. But when murder ensues and one of her employees is arrested, the self-described nosy parker decides that she must unveil the real murderer and clear her employee's name. Not surprisingly, her amateur snooping gets her into trouble, although her brew-master boyfriend is willing to help her when he can. Lots of local color.
August 3, 2022
I'm not sure why I am not connecting with this series. With my food and beverage background and all the time I spend in pubs, it should be a favorite but it's not. This one, in particular, falls flat. There's a tendency in cozies to go a little too cozy. In this one, Sadie is treated like a teenager when it is discovered she stayed over at her boyfriend's house. On the couch. Nothing happened. Yet, it becomes a focus of several conversations. She's an adult. What she does is her business. This altered the flow of the book for me and made it hard for me to enjoy. This one just fell flat for me. Hoping the next one is better.
November 26, 2021
4th book in the Literary Pub Mysteries – Renaissance Faire is in town, and with it drama worthy of a Faire play. Murder, deceit, dare I say potions, magic it has it all, and Sadie works hard to clear her employee’s name.
Great cozy to sit down with one Sadie’s signature drinks and read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an early copy in exchange for my opinion.
Great cozy to sit down with one Sadie’s signature drinks and read.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books for an early copy in exchange for my opinion.
November 11, 2021
I loved this cozy mystery because it contains all of my favorite elements in a cozy mystery: a great amateur sleuth who is smart and resourceful with an interesting profession, a plot that was intriguing and thought provoking, and a setting that made me want to visit sometime. It also was light-hearted and had a happily ever after. I recommend this book as an example of a great cozy mystery. I received this advanced reader's copy from NetGalley. This review expresses my honest opinion.
November 19, 2021
I was so excited to return to Shady Creek and the Inkwell (one of my favorite fictional places). Add to this charming town, a Renaissance Faire and I was so excited - and this story did not disappoint. We are introduced to a new cast of characters as someone from the Faire is murdered and it turns out he was not the most well liked person (and a super creep). Since one of Sadie's friends is accused of the murder, I am not surprised that she is determined to investiage. I am a bit surprised that so many strangers are willing to talk to her, without knowing her connection or her penchant for solving mysteries. I wish we had more descriptions of the Faire itself, but that locale was mostly used for Sadie to sneak around investigating. I was satisfied with all the literary themed items at the Inkwell and can't wait to see what new items she adds. The trivia night sounded so fun and this is definitely a fictional location I would love to visit. The murder investigation seemed to move a bit slowly, but wow I was surprised by the ending. The romance was also a tad slow, though I completely understand why due to Sadie's past relationship trauma. There were some very sweet moments and I'm looking forward to more in future books.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy.
Thanks to the publisher for a review copy.
September 5, 2021
I found the short introduction intriguing a Trueheart Renaissance Faire with a famous illusionist Ozzie Stone, it really appealed. But the style just did not resonate with me, the mystery and the characters felt a little thin,. Sadly, it just couldn't hold my attention. Not my cuppa tea, but I'm sure many others will enjoy.
With thanks to #Netgalley, the publisher Kensington Books and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
With thanks to #Netgalley, the publisher Kensington Books and the author for an advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review
April 9, 2024
Good mystery with a couple of murders, a missing person, and vampires. On to the last book now!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 4, 2023
4 stelle e mezza
Buona storia, sia dal punto del mistero che per quanto avviene nella vita della protagonista. Il colpevole è stato una mezza sorpresa, nel senso che a un certo punto avevo ipotizzato che potesse essere lui, ma poi avevo scartato questa possibilità perché mi sembrava che altri avessero un movente più forte.
Buona storia, sia dal punto del mistero che per quanto avviene nella vita della protagonista. Il colpevole è stato una mezza sorpresa, nel senso che a un certo punto avevo ipotizzato che potesse essere lui, ma poi avevo scartato questa possibilità perché mi sembrava che altri avessero un movente più forte.
March 14, 2022
Another fantastic installment in the Literary Pub Mystery series! I love being back with Sadie at The Inkwell. It's always a good time! I especially enjoyed the snippets of her relationship, and the Renaissance Faire aspect of this one. Looking forward to the next one!
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