| Title | : | The Great Gaston Murder (Penelope Banks Murder Mysteries, #6) |
| Author | : | |
| Rating | : | |
| ISBN | : | - |
| Language | : | English |
| Format Type | : | Kindle Edition |
| Number of Pages | : | 236 |
| Publication | : | Published October 3, 2022 |
The Great Gaston Murder (Penelope Banks Murder Mysteries, #6) Reviews
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Ah yes, here we go again! Of all the books in this series, I think this one in particular is the most similar to the first one, my favorite. It takes place in the same mansion, has a similar double murder, and has the triumphant return of Penelope’s own Inspector Lestrade (I'm kidding on that last part, I could have done without him, if I’m honest). What makes this installment special is that it takes on a Gatsby flair, making it a fun partial retelling of The Great Gatsby, only in mystery format, full of yearning looks across the lake and sordid love triangles! It was cool because we even get stand-ins for Gatsby, Daisy, and Tom! Basically, this book is like if (spoilers for The Great Gatsby?) Jay Gatsby’s murder was a mystery... and Nick Carraway (or Penelope Banks, in this case) had to solve it. Otherwise, If I had one tiny complaint, I'd say that the reveal wasn't as satisfying as I'd hoped. Sure, it was unexpected, but maybe not as interesting to the narrative. This isn't always the case with these kinds of books, but I think this is a situation where I'd totally be okay with the most obvious suspect actually being the culprit in the end. Sometimes mysteries like to duck-and-dive and twist-and-turn so~oo much just to avoid being guessed at correctly by the reader that by the time we actually get to the reveal the whole thing just looks like a tangled mess in retrospect. Sometimes it’s okay if it was just the butler, if you catch my drift. Of course, that’s not to say I didn’t enjoy this, because I can say with my whole heart that this series, with its trademarked stylish charm, remains an absolute delight to read! It probably sounds a little morbid to say this about a murder mystery, but finishing these books never fails to put me in a great mood! I love them so much! Seriously, I’m living like I’m nine-zeros.
“Your method always seems to follow the path of—“
“Meddling?” Pen teased.
“Indeed.” -
Rating: 5 / 5
Wow. Um...okay, WOW.
This was, hands down and no doubt, the BEST book of this series so far!
I seriously don't want to give anything away (although some of my notes that I'll be sharing to identify The Great Gatsby Easter Eggs might do that), but this was just overall spectacular, and an interesting and original take on what the 1920s is all about: partying and the tragedies that follow!
The author promises twists on the most famous book of the decade--
The Great Gatsby--and she certainly delivers! (Mostly!)
Let's just say that it was fun for me, as a high school English teacher, to tactfully pick out all of those references, and be able to apply them easily. We also have character and relationship development in this book as well, making it all and all a well-rounded Penelope Banks murder mystery!
Just...gah, I'm still getting over how awesome it is, and what the cover promises is definitely what we get! Just...check it out if you haven't already, what else can I say?! -
Overall it was good enough for four stars but I hate it when a character I really like is killed. This one had so much promise as a character going forward but sadly my vision and the author's differed on that point. I think we expect tragedy in literary fiction, such as The Great Gatsby, which the author brought up in her commentary about writing this book. We don't necessarily expect it in genre cozy mysteries.
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Best one yet
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Not exactly the birthday she was planning
Some spoilers.
Penelope Banks is throwing a bash for her 25th birthday. She’s invited friends and more for a blow out in the style of her friend and the former owner of the house Agnes. Her weekend plans have some snags first in the presence of an unknown guest James Gaston, then in not one but two murders. Sadly the second which happened to be James her new friend and as she discovers family. Now Pen is on the case with help from her Beau Detective Richard Prescott.
An interesting read with a blowout to do the roaring 20’s proud. Much of the action happens in a very short time span namely the party and the day after. Pen has some definite Holmes like moments when she discovers the culprits behind both murders. It’s bittersweet when Pen finally gets answers about her family in the form of her grandfather and James, disappointment in the former and regret over the short time with the latter. There is still the fun loving, devil may care Pen but there is also more now especially with the facts she learns about her mother and grandfather. A sad bit of an ending but an enjoyable and surprising ride along with Pen to discover who committed the crimes. -
25th birthday celebration?
To honor Agnes memory and celebrate her own birthday Pen plans a final outrageous party. Among the presents ..... family history revealed and murder. -
I really enjoyed this book. I have also thoroughly enjoyed the entire series, so far. The main character, Penelope, is a completely likeable character, who has just enough wit, charm, and caring about her to endear her to almost everyone worth knowing. Men, for the larger portion, were such scoundrels in the 20's. It made men like Penelope's detective, Richard stand out boldly in the story. I most definitely recommend the book and the rest of the series I have read, so far.
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Secrets and Surprises
Agnes is the gift that keeps on giving. Celebrating Pen's 25th birthday at the mansion seems like the best idea ever. Sadly, a murder happens on the big night. And there is much more to the murder than anyone knows. Very Gatsbyesque. The Easter eggs are everywhere. -
A 25th Birthday Surprise
Another great mystery to keep you guessing. It's a weekend of celebrating Pens 25th birthday, but somebody is planning a surprise she won't like. After 2 people are killed, Pen is on the hunt for the truth. Read this book and join her as she touches the past and the present to discover the murderer. -
another good read from this author
Quirky. A interesting and fun read, looking for more of this author, thanks for the twists and turns it kept me guessing, T he era is presented well. -
Outstanding, immediately draws you into their world
From the first paragraph I’m caught up in a different world. Amazing writing in each and every book in this series:
